Soon to purchase 14.44.4 OB

[Mrjoel86]

Hi guys I've been a long time reader ( 2 years )
I think next year I will be buying a 14.44.4 , originally we had our eyes on the 16footers but really like the layout of the 14.44.4
I have bought the tow rig (2008 Toyota prado gxl d4d with low kms ) and have modded it ready and waiting for the van
Pretty much looking for some insight as to what options are a must when ordering new
I have my small list so far
2nd water tank
2nd has bottle
Internal external speakers tv etc
HWS
Shower at the rear
Truma roof top a/c
External picnic table
Wind up antenna
Water filter
Not sure if drifter control panel is needed?

Any other options I should look at whilst getting built and hopefully get thrown in to do a deal
Thanks

 

[Tricky]

Welcome to the forum. The list could go on for pages - just depends on how much time and $$$ you have!!!

 

[MDS69]

Welcome @Mrjoel86 nice choice of van and tow rig if I do say so myself.
I would consider a external light over the external shower. That is one thing we didn't get but reckon it would be handy. The extended draw bar is a popular option on these vans but you need to consider your van weight with all these options. Some sort of unit to indicate water tank and bettery levels is good. We have the Coast to Coast and whilst it is basic is suits us but the Drifter gets good reviews.

 

[bigcol]

also, get extra power points put in
under the table
next to the bed
in the kitchen area
anywhere and everywhere you can think of

and get a few 12V points put in as well

 

[Mrjoel86]

Thanks guys appreciate the feedback

@MDS69 I was thinking about extra lights out side. One of the rear one over the water filler . Are there lights on the out side if the awning isn't rolled out?

 

[Bmhdg76]

Hi @Mrjoel86,

We have the same van and love it. We didn't get the HWS and to be honest I regret it now. May look at a HWS/heater combo as we free camp a lot. Good call on the roof top aircon... another thing I should have changed.

Make sure with getting the extra water tank and the external shower that they upgrade the payload for the extra 75kgs (375kg total). We got the offside light and is the best thing, definitely get one over the shower as has been suggested before.

We have the drifter and is a good unit - would I get it again? Probably not. Again because we free camp 99% of the time, I like to know how much power we have used and how much has gone in rather than just an instantaneous amount shown with a fuel gauge.

Can have a look at some of the things I have done here.

BJ

 

[MDS69]

Thanks guys appreciate the feedback

@MDS69 I was thinking about extra lights out side. One of the rear one over the water filler . Are there lights on the out side if the awning isn't rolled out?

on the 2014 there are two outside lights on the living side of the van, the LED strip in the awning drum and another bunker type light on the side of the van

 

[PhilW]

Great choice of van. We have just picked up ours and absolutely love it.
Looking forward to seeing some pics.

 

[ragracing]

I can highly recommend the extended drawbar, or you won't be able to open the back of your car all the way.

 

[jdove]

Another vote for the extended draw bar, it makes it much easier for vehicle access when the beds are set up and still van is hitched up to vehicle. (one night stops etc) I also had shelves put in the robe to match the pantry (I don't need to hang any clothes when on the road) and also put a second shelf under the sink. Getting things done in the factory means that the extra weight is not taken off your payload.

 

[bigcol]

good thinking @jdove

a bit too late for me though
hahahaha

but yes, extended Draw bar is a must -
ease of towing
ease of reversing
more room on front for a box
ease of access to vehicle rear if still hooked up
looks sexy

 

[Mrjoel86]

Hi guys yeh I forgot to put it down but yeh I'm definitely getting the extended draw bar!