Sometimes it is the little things that make a difference. This week I worked on two things that were simple projects but make van life a little easier.
First, since I upgraded the Vanagon radio to a Retro Sound unit that supports USB connections, I wanted an easy way to connect my cell phone or tablet to the radio. I also wanted to be able to have the cell phone or tablet in clear sight and easy to access when driving. I decided I would start with a GoWesty ash tray elimination kit to create base for the connections and a bracket. I mounted an Arkon adjustable arm on the cover plate. Since I wired the radio to the house battery I needed a switch to cut off the power to the radio (think ACC circuit off the starter battery) so I decided this was a good place for a power switch. Finally, there was room left for the USB auxiliary plug from the radio. After some use, I was finding the spring loaded Arkon phone holder hard to work with so I started looking for alternatives. I found a mag safe bracket made by a company called Journey that would attach directly to the Arkon arm. The bracket uses the mag safe charging mechanism to hold the phone in place, making it really easy to mount and remove the phone. When I want to use my tablet (when I want to feel like I am driving some late model car with the big infotainment screen!) I simply swap the mount.
The other project was to install a grab handle on the left side A-pillar. The Vanagon comes with a grab handle on the right A-pillar to make it easier for the passenger to climb in. Rather than rely on the steering wheel I decided a grab handle on the left side would be a nice addition. Again, GoWesty had the kit I needed. After measuring and double checking the measurements, holes were drilled, bare metal painted, wedge kit install and the handle screwed into place.
