Scuba-friendly automobile suggestions?

[inter_alia]

This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument but I'll risk it.
I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.

Thanks!

[mwilding]

How about a Ford Explorer Sport-Trac (http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/explorersporttrac/index.asp?bhcp=1) ?

[Aggie Diver]

I looked at the SportTrac, ended up going with an F150 Supercrew.

I've carried 4 people in addition to myself, all our gear, and 4 tanks for each comfortably on a 400 mile trip to go dive.

Go with the Supercrew, prices are comparable to the SportTrac and you get a whole lot more room, especially in the bed.

AD

[coquito]

I drive a Nissan Xterra. Love it!! Lots of room for passangers, gear and bags. Easy drive too.

Good luck!!


This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument but I'll risk it.
I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.

Thanks!

[DivePartner1]

The trick is anything that fits the gear and allows you get stuff in or our with relative ease. For many, a station wagon, truck or suburban assault vehicle fit the bill. Last time I went car shopping, I took a tank and it's holding mounts with me.

For me, a Saab hatchback works just as well, with plently of room for two tanks, first aid kit, and gear. The lip is trunk is low enought that I can don everthing sitting on the bumper.

[MechDiver]

Get a minivan or "enclosed" truck (aka Explorer).

MD

[Groundhog246]

I had a Dodge Minivan that served me well. Recently replaced with a Chev Safari van. Almost a 3rd more room. Can easily haul enough gear for 4 (currently 3 divers in the family and one waiting to be old enough).
Recent issue of Diver (the Canadian dive mag) had a nice review of the Element. They expressed surprise at being asked by Honda to review it with an eye to it's suitability for divers.

[inter_alia]

Thanks everyone, keep suggestions coming!
Groundhog246, I found the website for the magazine but nothing on the Element review. You said it was "nice" so I'll take it well.
Mechdiver, definitely thinking about "enclosed" of some sort, not a pickup.

Thanks again, y'all!

[FredT]

Thanks everyone, keep suggestions coming!
Groundhog246, I found the website for the magazine but nothing on the Element review. You said it was "nice" so I'll take it well.
Mechdiver, definitely thinking about "enclosed" of some sort, not a pickup.

Thanks again, y'all!

Something like 32 years give or take a few.

The _Best_ thing I've found is a full size Dodge B3500 Maxiwagon 1 ton window van. 360 V-8 engine and overdrive trans. This is a full size van stretched about 4', with seriously heavy duty axles (I've had up to 7000 pounds of payoad in one for a short trip on flat ground) and windows to minimze the blind spots. They come with easily removable seats for up to 15 so it's possible to match seating and cargo capacity to almost any group.

This thing comfortably hauls up to 6 divers, luggage, tanks & gear for a weekend for all, 6 rig guns (~7' long) and several boat fish boxes with nothing outside the truck. This greatly simplifies pit and food stops enroute on a driving diving vacation.

I looked at the Element. The salesman swore up and down the diving gear would fit until I stopped by with the truck on the way home after dive trip with just 2 people. He looked at 12 tanks, 2 gear bags and our luggage and thought he could make it until the Ice chests and spearguns came out, then the just shook his head and gave up trying to sell my wife one. :wink:

I've gone on dive trips in everythig from a station wagon to mini pickups to crew cab full size trucks and even a few full size cars and a motor home. The full size van beats them all.

A fair second is a comfortable full size car, with a dedicated trailer for the gear.

FT

[wreckchick]

I have a Nissan Pathfinder, and I think it's fabulous. I'm sure anything in that size range would be fine. Of course it depends how much gear and how many people you plan on travelling with.

JMHO

Rachel

[Northeastwrecks]

I use an F150 Supercrew. I can fit three divers, six sets of doubles, stages, and gear into it, along with enough food for a 6 hour drive to the St. Lawrence.

If I were buying today, I'd probably look at a Dodge Hemi quad cab 4X4. If you can live without the quad cab and the four wheel drive, the new SRT 10 is nice.

[Sean326]

F-250 lariat 4 door V-10 4X4

Huge cab almost like a camper lots of room for 5 divers and equipment. Put the front seats far forward and even a big guy like me 6' 1" 280# can put on a dry suit easily in the back seat.

[KrisB]

Volkswagen Touareg. But make sure you get the TDI engine.

[IslandHopper]

I can't believe no one has mentioned my Excursion yet. I actually got it to haul around my family ... 4 kids and all the strollers and crap that go along with them.

But in the last several months , it has turned into a pretty handy tank-hauler. I'd rather have a little pick-up here as the weather is never a problem... but stateside, it would fit the "enclosed" bill for poor weather and still has a ton of room.

I pretty regularly haul aroound 8 tanks and gear for 4 to do beach dives all over the island.

[PurduEE]

One of the guys I was in a class with had a Chevy Avalanche. Not the greatest looking car, but he had all our gear (4 guys, 12 AL80s, gear bags, etc.). I was impressed. I still don't understand the whole 'converts from an SUV to an SUV without a back window' thing, but I was impressed with how much gear we could cram into it... Now, the back is exposed to the elements - if you have a concern with your gear getting wet before you get to the divesite, it might be a problem... :)

[tme623]

Hi! I went from a Honda Civic to a Honda CRV back in 1998. It took me literally 5000 miles to get used to the change in power because my CRV has the same engine as my 1994 Civic. But one day I was driving down the freeway at 85 mph, fully loaded, and realized that yes, the CRV does have enough power to get me where I need to go.

Now I love the CRV! It fits two divers, four tanks, two sets of cold water gear including dry suits, a cooler and heck maybe even room for one more diver.

The new CRV's look great and have a bit more power than my old 98 CRV. I also have 108,000 miles on it and have never had a thing go wrong with it. Besides oil changes and tuneups I've replaced the tires, that's it!

The new ones look really cool....

Tammi

[LUBOLD8431]

Well, I like Vans. I got a Chevy Venture Cargo Van, it only has two seats, and the back is wide open. I was thinking about putting another two seats in it. Right now, I can load up with alot of gear (Ive had six sets of doubles, eight deco bottles, and three divers gear bags, and cooler). I like full size vans also, but they are pretty expensive. You can generally find minivans pretty cheap.

A couple friends of mine have Suburbans. Those are nice. You can haul lots of gear and people with those. The smaller SUV's are OK, but you sacrifice cargo area.

[Ber Rabbit]

PurduEE, what do you mean the back is exposed to the elements? The Avalanche has a hard cover over the bed and you don't have to remove the back window when you do the conversion. I vote for the Avalanche (biased here, my husband owns a Chevy dealership :biggrin:).
Ber :lilbunny:

[CBulla]

This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument but I'll risk it.
I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.

Thanks!

This is an intersting question since the type of diving you do - shore entry type you'll probably find that something you use as a gear platform will benefit you greatly. Personally, both of my vehicles are good for this (a 98 ranger pickup and my wifes jeep cherokee classic). Both provide ample room to set up, break down, and change out gear.

Conversely if you dive from a boat, this is not something you have to worry about and it would be more an issue of gear stowage for transit to the boat.I can't suggest anything there since I have no real experience in diving smaller vehicles.

[diverrick]

I have a Subaru Legacy wagon. I haul everything from Hay bales to dogs, to dive gear. It has the plastic tray with high sides in the back, so water can pool up and not bother anything. It has almost the same back space as a S-10 Blazer believe it or not, You can lock everything up in it, Lots of leg room, Great gas Mileage, handles superbly especially in rain or snow, goes just about anywhere, easy to work on, and affordable. And last but not least, they run forever! I have had three, the only reason I had three was First one the ex took, second one was stolen, third one is still going strong at 185,000. I have never done anything but regular maintenance to it. Heck I have not even changed the plugs yet.. gets 27 MPG reularly at 70 MPH cruise speeds. I love my car!

[inter_alia]

diverrick, I like the Legacy and the Outback. Definitely high on the list.

You guys are fabulous to keep posting here. I very much appreciate it! Carry on.

[5615mike]

My Tahoe does the trick. Sean326...your rig does the trick!!

[Tygh]

I have to say my Honda Element is made for divers. The seats are waterproof, it has a cavernous interior, and the floor does fine with water on it.

I can load a 10' Zodiac, 10hp engine, two divers and gear in the Element no problem.

And yes, I know it is a box on wheels, but sometimes ugly is good.

[jamiei]

GMC Yukon SLT... heated leather seats and fully adjustable lumbar support... you can put the heat on your lower back to help ease those sore muscles from lugging your tanks around. It's also ranked the most dependable suv (maybe thats fullsize only though...) Throw a hitch haul in the reciever and strap your tanks on or you can hook up your big boat for a trip to the Keys. Plenty of room, power, all the luxuries, and I still get 18 mph (city/highway combined). You can also pull out the third row seats, pop in your rubber floor liner and haul a lot of gear. With rear captains chairs, A/C and radio controls, you won't hear any complaints from passengers about comfort. I am a little biased ovbiously... And if anybody ever decides to start selling ethanol 85 around here I can even help the environment a little since its a flex fuel engine. Yes... I was a car salesman for a little while... not for GMC though. Just thought I'd try it while I was in college.

[velazques25]

I really fell sorry for the diver who has to travel long distances to have a nice dive with his buddies. I feel very lucky to live in an island where the best dive sites are only s short boat ride away and the only equipment hauling that I have to do is from the dock to the boat an vice-versa and only have to take the tanks to the local filler, I use a old Isuzu PUP with a 2.0 liter diesel engine. This is the only one I have seen but it works great in the hauling tanks in the hilly region of Puerto Rico where I live. Personally I will get a nice pick-up (Ford-250 powerstroke engine V8) manly because it has a lot of power, torque and cabin space (nice when hauling ass 400 miles for a dive that is what I call dedication and love for the sport). But if this seems to expensive move to Puerto Rico buy a house near the water in La Parguera and buy a boat and go diving ‘the easy way’

[chrisc]

I would opt for a Suburban or H2, we have both. Yes they are a bit pricy, but they hold their value (at least the Suburban does). Our first Suburban (90 model) had over 275K miles with without a problem and is still running strong. The H2 is a great roomy ride. People cannot get over that we ACTUALLY take it off roading. It rides like a dream and gets fair mileage. I would rather be riding in a full size truck or SUV than a smaller model in a crash. The Suburban will attest to getting side swiped at 60mph and I drove it home after changing the tire. Smaller models have lower towing and load capacity with will affect driving and mileage. 4-5 adults @200lbs =1000lbs, 8-10 tanks= 400-500lbs throw in gear and a cooler=500lbs your getting close to the max payload weight and don't even think about towing anything.

Just our thoughts.

[DA Aquamaster]

We have a Ford Explorer and it can accomodate 12 tanks, 3 divers and 3 sets of cold water dive gear with ease. Milage is about 16 mpg.

My personal vehicle is a Jeep Cherokee Sport and it also does well but has a lot less internal volume than the Explorer and is a 2 diver, 2 sets of gear and 12 tank vehicle but gets 22 mpg.

The Cherokee Sport is also a thousand pounds lighter than the Explorer with about the same horsepower and is a lot more fun to drive. The Explorer has skinnier tires and is too soft in the suspension and lacks ground clearance for serious off road stuff but is quieter and more comfortable on the highway.

We also still own a Ford Festiva and with 40 mpg it makes a great economy dive vehicle that will accomodate 2 divers, 6 tanks and 2 sets of cold water dive gear. It always impresses people when we arrive and unload everything. Sort of like all those clowns getting out of a volkswagon at the circus. In general, the Festiva was, odd as it may seem, also a very reliable car that held up very well as it aged.

The Explorer and Cherokee will both tow our 23 ft boat but only barely and the 50 miles to and from the slip each year is enough of a challenge.

I have not tried towing the boat with the Festiva.

[Genesis]

I own two vehicles - a Suburban and a VW Jetta Wagon TDI.

The former is cavernous inside (you could almost cave-dive in it), will hold a bunch of doubles, gear bags, everything - indeed, I hauled four people's diving gear PLUS our "stuff" for a week vacation, the four people, and STILL had a bunch of room left. And oh, by the way, "four people's diving gear" included two sets of doubles and a bunch of single tanks as well as the gear bags.

When I use it alone for cave/spring diving, I gear up in the truck. Simple; you can change inside, then set up on the gate, get into the harness and go. No problem.

The VW Jetta Wagon is a smaller version of this. It'll handle two divers and tanks for both with relative ease. Only one set of doubles easily though, but 4 singles with no problem plus all your other gear. If its just two divers you can fold the back seats and then it too is cavernous inside.

Both got outfitted with a rubber cargo protector with a 2" lip to keep water off the carpet.

The Suburban gets the expected crappy gas mileage - the Jetta gets a no-BS 50 mpg on the highway, and in the mid 40s around town. I got 45mpg going from the Panhandle to Dallas with average speeds well into the 80s, with some stretches near triples - its an amazing road car.

The 'Burban was really bought as a boat-pulling machine. Its turned out to be an excellent dive truck though....

[capelli]

have an xterra and fit everything in it just fine

[caveseeker7]

This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument ...


These days there are so many imports that this old argument hasn't come up among my friends in years.




... I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO)


Have a look at what I'm driving. And I can fit two divers, two SP72s and two gear bags. Gotta SCUBA rack and know how to pack. :D




I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.



It really depends how often you go diving in relation to how much you drive, with how much gear. You dive twin 120s and stages, and bring three or four sets for the weekend? Every weekend? Get a Florida Dive Bag like FredT has.
Spend an hour or two every day in the car, and go once or twice a month for a single tank dive with a friend? Anything form an Element to a Subaru or Jetta wil work just fine.

Some considerations:
Especially if you dive saltwater it's a good idea to have corrosion protected luggage area. May that be an add-on plastic trunk or bedliner tub, a SportTrack or Avalanche's composite bed or a Jeep's drainholes so you can hose it out. If you decide on a car you might want to check in advance if a liner is available.

Do you have insurance on your dive gear, or transport other valuable stuff?
Make sure it's safely locked and out of view. If insured check with your carrier if they accept station wagons/SUV, and if so all contend or just what's under the retracting cover. Mine doesn't cover cameras and lighting equipment unless it's locked solidly out of sight (either a car's seperate trunk or a pick-up with a fiberglass tonneau cover).

How much can, and are you willing to, afford? Both inital cost, insurance and consumables. There is a pretty large gap between the Element and the Hummer mentioned in one post.

If you buy something that might be borderline in size, take your gear with you when you buy.

[Marvintpa]

I'm not a truck person (too tall, poor weight distribustion is a factor in bad weather, too expensive for whatcha get, etc.) so the Subaru Outback wagon seems like a good choice to me. They come with a tray in the back with a 1" tall lip around it which catches all the water from dive gear perfectly - just tilt it when you are unloading and your car is dry again. It has handled multiple sets of doubles plus gear and cameras better than I could have imagined.

[mwilding]

The new ultimate SCUBA vehicle is a Toyota Pick-up Truck!

Why? Watch this video...

Part 1 (http://thw.gameparty.net/other/imp/topgear1.WMV)
Part 2 (http://thw.gameparty.net/other/imp/topgear2.WMV)

[Mverick]

Now I have a Chevy 1/2ton extended cab. Short Bed. 2 wheel drive. Haul all for me and a buddy.

Next, An Excursion. I hate having to haul gear into the hotel at night so somebody doesn't steal it. When we go out. With an Excursion. Just lock it up. Even at the dive site. I like to lock it up now. As some things have been disappearing at the sights.....

[Cousin]

When I still lived in Missouri for the local trips I used my 63' Willys panel, great vehicle for it, but just don't plan on getting anywhere to fast. Or, if it was just me I would take my Typhoon. Further away and all trips now, since I moved to Texas, I use my Tahoe, does a good job.

[inter_alia]

caveseeker, I can't believe you handle all that in a Miata. Kudos are in order.

Thanks again everyone for continuing to post in here. I'm still looking around and have decided against the pickup route (see a couple posts above, I agree) and still like the smaller SUVs like the Element and maybe the Rav4. No H2 but my husband almost has me talked into a Pinzguaer http://www.pinzgauer.uk.com/images/G01.jpg since he could at least go to 6 or 7 feet with me. Kidding, almost, apparently he found several around the Southeast for 14K. How about that for a pick-em-up truck?

Keep the replies coming!

[inter_alia]

Pinzgauer, better picture:
http://www.coldwarremarketing.com/images/4750433-1.jpg

[caveseeker7]

Pinzgauer, better picture:
http://www.coldwarremarketing.com/images/4750433-1.jpg


Yeah ! Pinzgauer's are great off road. Come as 4x4s or 6x6s as shown, from Austria. Made by Steyer-Daimler-puch, the same people who build the Mercedes G-wagon. :D Another good car to move dive gear once you're past the $70K+ admission. But both all those as well as the rest mentioned here have one disadvantage: They sink! Although with a Suburban, Excursion or extended full size van this could be seen as an advantage:
If you're diving off the beach and it turns out to be a boring dive, let'em sink and presto, you've got a divable wreck. :D

Otherwise, how about a Ford GPA?

[caveseeker7]

And for the import fans:

[caveseeker7]

Or, for a few friends with twins and stages:


While I wouldn't want to be the guy in the left picture, I can just see that DUK approaching Avalon, drive up the ramp and on the Point with people throwing fits left and right. :D

[caveseeker7]

... for the FredTs amongst us ... :D

[inter_alia]

Thought a lot about the GPA when learning the tediousness of shore entries in Bonaire... don't think the island would enjoy these vehicles though. Must remember to buy better booties for next time.

[pipedope]

Here is a pic.

[DA Aquamaster]

Or, for a few friends with twins and stages:


While I wouldn't want to be the guy in the left picture, I can just see that DUK approaching Avalon, drive up the ramp and on the Point with people throwing fits left and right. :D

The neighbors had an amphibious Weasel when I was a kid and used to dirve it down to, and in, the local lake. Basically the same concept as the Duk but based on a Jeep chassis rather than on a 6x6 truck.

There is also a high performance convertable sports car/boat going into limited production this spring. It looks very sleek and James Bondish, will actually plane and pull a skiier but lists for around $300,000.

[reefraff]

It depends upon how many people and how much gear you're toting.

If you're looking for something just for yourself for recreational diving, pretty much anything with a hatch or sliding door will suffice for a day trip. I drive a Tahoe and that can haul up to two technical divers and their gear for a weekend. Beyond that, I need a trailer.

Steven

[diverbrian]

It depends upon how many people and how much gear you're toting.

If you're looking for something just for yourself for recreational diving, pretty much anything with a hatch or sliding door will suffice for a day trip. I drive a Tahoe and that can haul up to two technical divers and their gear for a weekend. Beyond that, I need a trailer.

Steven

Just ask the people that were diving with me in Deerfield Beach or Tobermory how much gear and how many tanks can fit in a Ford Mustang!

[DrownedRat]

I purchased a 97 subaru legacy a few years ago (the 2.5 gt wagon) and I gotta say, a nicer car I haven't owned. I've maxed it out at 8 tanks, 4 gear bags and 4 divers all going over some pretty muddy and rough tracks (read: Ive Lea for you local folks). I just rolled over 107000Km and aside from regular oil changes etc all I've had to replce so far is the battery.

[UnderwaterArchy]

I would stick with Honda. I really like the CRV's. For there size, there is a surprisingly large amount of interior space. I have only had to transport 2 people with gear but I have had 5 adults easily fit in mine.

I would also 2nd the Touareg. However, they start to get pricey whereas the CRV can be picked up for a little over 20G's

[jplacson]

And if you're in a rush to get to those out-of-the-way, off-road sites with just a friend and 2 sets of gear... the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo, or Pajero Evo should do the trick! :lol:

Seriously, any decent double cab pickup would be relatively affordable, and can haul a lot of gear... plus wet gear wouldn't stink up the inside of the cabin.

[DiveMistress2]

This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument but I'll risk it.
I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.

Thanks!

Love my RAM 1500 Quad Cab - I can carry up to 6 people & I still have lots of room in the box area (6ft). It's great for gear - we hauled 6 sets of doubles, 4 singles & 4 people c/w camping gear last summer & there was still plenty of room so that we could bring a full sized bbq.

[d@n]

2nd on the Ram Quad Cab. Mine is a 4x4 and I drive right out on the beach.

Great Truck!

[Ga Diver]

I'm in the market looking for a scuba vehicle and truck all in one. I now have a 98 Volvo S70 w/150K miles. Let me tell you, 2 divers, scuba gear and camping gear on a trip to Ginnie Springs is a Mack truck load. I'm thinking about a Toyota PreRunner 4 door. It's a fine looking truck and with a matching locking shell on back, I think it would serve well. I have to go small, as I travel about 110 miles daily to/from work, so milage DOES factor in. Anyone have any comments on this being a cool scuba scooter?

[Genesis]

I bet you could get two divers gear, camping gear, and miscellaneous stuff in a Jetta Wagon - if you folded the rear seats.

If it was a TDI, you'd also get nearly 50mpg - something to think about..... (I own one and love the silly thing.)

I also have a Suburban, which I love for the big load capacity, but if you only have to carry TWO divers then its all a matter of cargo room - you only need the front seats.

[Otter]

I like my Ford Expedition. I can carry 4 divers and gear....its all enclosed....it has keyless entry for shore dives (don't have to worry about the key getting lost/stolen) and yet is smaller than the Excursion for parking on crowded beach city streets.

[firediver293]

This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument but I'll risk it.
I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.

Thanks!

I used to have an Accord. Loved it. Started diving & needed a new ride. Got a truck. Nice hauler, but couldn't secure gear very well. Now the wife and I have a CRV and an Odyssey Mini-van. The CRV was mine, until I tried to take all my gear and a buddy diving one weekend. Just not enough room. Back door was a pain in the butt (literally) as it kept shutting on me if I parked on a slight incline at a dive site.

So we switched. Yes I am the cool guy that drives a minivan that all of you want to be like.

It may not be the epitome of coolness, but it is the best dive vehicle ever! The back hatch raises up rather than swings out. That gives me protection from the sun (and rain on crappy days). The back seat folds down so I can haul 8 tanks, 2 sets of dive gear (in dive boxes), a cooler, a couple suitcases, a crapload of extra save-a-dive type gear, a couple folding chairs, and other senseless essentials. And I still have room for four people. If I pop the middle seats out (takes about 1 minute), I can fit even more gear in. With sliding doors on both sides, it is a breeze to use the van as a "staging" area to get dresses, set up, etc.

It is low enough to the ground that I can sit on the back or sides when the doors are open. Very comfortable. I also have slept many a night in the van at dive sites. I have a rubber mat I put down and it makes it easy to clean.

The CRV and Element are built on the same chasis and is basically the same vehicle. Not bad, but not much power (or room). A bit better on mileage though. The Odyssey and the Pilot are the same (basically). The Pilot sits higher and doesn't seem to be as versatile on room.

Go Odyssey!!!

Oh ya, you can put a dive plate on the front to be really cool.

[chris z]

DH & I have a '99 Subaru Outback Sport we just love. It has a cargo tray like the one Marvintpa mentioned which is great for containing wet equipment

[chris z]

DH & I have a '99 Subaru Outback Sport we just love. It has a cargo tray like the one Marvintpa mentioned which is great for containing wet equipment. The sport is the perfect size for the 2 of us and our gear. Plus with the 16" wheels it have as much if not more ground clearance an a van and some SUVs.

-Chris

[jumbo]

old school van-man-

I couldnt agree more with the van issue, our DAV (dive assult vehicle) is a 94 ford ecoline 350, diesel, lifted 4 inches and factory built 4 wheel drive, 33 inch mud terrains. full cargro rack on top with 5 day lighters on the rack for night dives. and oh yea a removable winch. needless to say its one bad machine and with zodiac in tow it really turns heads.for a pure dive vehicle you cant beat it, and for keyless entry we have our tropicana bikini surface team holding the cooler down, i wish, no really

and for the Honda/subaru folks, lets get real hear we are not going to soccer practice

[VTernovski]

Honda CR-V '97 here. Just enough for two people with all their gear on. I love the car though, except the engine needs to be more powerful that it is now.

[JPBECK]

I can haul 3 sets of gear in my JEEP Grand Cherokee... Lots of space- Stright SIx engine will last 200 k miles- Nice ride too- Style doesnt change- so it always looks new

[KYDan]

E-350 Ford 7 passenger van. Actually, to take 4 divers I'd take out the bench seat and leave the 4 captain's chairs. The plus side over my old Chevy 30 series van is the GREAT ground clearance. The down side over many of the vehicles listed here is the 15-17 mpg.

Of course, when I load it up with 7 folks for a (non-diving) run to Knoxville this weekend, the person-miles per gallon will work out pretty good.

I've been a van guy for a long time. The reason I traded the Chevy is that it just wouldn't last. After 18 years it was getting a bit long in the tooth. :cheeky: Now my insurance agent buddy has been telling me his company (State Farm) won't write policies on one ton 15-passenger vans, and other companies are following suit. Has anybody had actual experience in this matter?

KYDan

[OE2X]

The trunk is as big my F350's box and you can't beat it for style!!!

Actually the F350 Powerstroke with a crew cab is sweet. We put 6 130's in back seat floorwell and two big boxes for gear if it's just two of us. If there is more divers, then everything goes in the bed. It also hauls the 24' Zodiac with impunity.

The only thing that I would like better, would be an F350 powerstroke 4x4 cargo van. That would be styling.

[FLL Diver]

So we switched. Yes I am the cool guy that drives a minivan that all of you want to be like.

It may not be the epitome of coolness, but it is the best dive vehicle ever! The back hatch raises up rather than swings out. That gives me protection from the sun (and rain on crappy days). The back seat folds down so I can haul 8 tanks, 2 sets of dive gear (in dive boxes), a cooler, a couple suitcases, a crapload of extra save-a-dive type gear, a couple folding chairs, and other senseless essentials. And I still have room for four people. If I pop the middle seats out (takes about 1 minute), I can fit even more gear in. With sliding doors on both sides, it is a breeze to use the van as a "staging" area to get dresses, set up, etc.

It is low enough to the ground that I can sit on the back or sides when the doors are open. Very comfortable. I also have slept many a night in the van at dive sites. I have a rubber mat I put down and it makes it easy to clean.


I have to agree with you about a minivan. Despite what other may think about you when driving it, it does make the best vehicle to stage out of. I never thought the SUV was as accommodating, and I hate using my car.

Marc

[flw]

I use Toyota Hilux 4x4 with a cover on the back - when I crashed it complete with my kit in the back it crumpled back to the chassis and held completely solid, both the kids and myself walked away, which is more than could be said for the other car involved - so I don't really care its expensive on fuel anymore, even though I live in the most expensive area in the UK for fuel.
There's plenty of space in back for kit, and if it ever gets comletely emptied of kit, which is rare, just park it facing up a hill and hose the back down

[PurduEE]

I use Toyota Hilux 4x4 with a cover on the back - when I crashed it complete with my kit in the back it crumpled back to the chassis and held completely solid, both the kids and myself walked away, which is more than could be said for the other car involved - so I don't really care its expensive on fuel anymore, even though I live in the most expensive area in the UK for fuel.
There's plenty of space in back for kit, and if it ever gets comletely emptied of kit, which is rare, just park it facing up a hill and hose the back down

Off topic - This is the same reason I got my wife a big, heavy, fuel-inefficient ES-300. Everytime I see one of those little hybrid cars here in TX around all the trucks and SUVs I wonder how well they would survive a wreck with a car at least 2x as big and heavy. I'm all for the environment, but not at my family's expense.

on topic - the ES-300 is not a good dive mobile... :)

[Allen42]

I'm in the market looking for a scuba vehicle and truck all in one. I now have a 98 Volvo S70 w/150K miles. Let me tell you, 2 divers, scuba gear and camping gear on a trip to Ginnie Springs is a Mack truck load. I'm thinking about a Toyota PreRunner 4 door. It's a fine looking truck and with a matching locking shell on back, I think it would serve well. I have to go small, as I travel about 110 miles daily to/from work, so milage DOES factor in. Anyone have any comments on this being a cool scuba scooter?

Get a Z66 or Z71 Chevy Avalanche. Nice smooth ride. Holds (and locks up!) enough gear for you and all your buds. Biggest backseat legroom I've seen in a 1/2 ton truck. Couldn't be happier with mine. Bed has water drainage system, so cleanup is a snap.

[tinman694]

These days there are so many imports that this old argument hasn't come up among my friends in years.


Have a look at what I'm driving. And I can fit two divers, two SP72s and two gear bags. Gotta SCUBA rack and know how to pack. :D


Did the same thing with my Fiat Spider years ago--Went on a weekend trip with the two of us with full gear and tanks and the dog---(took out the spare tire and tied the tanks on the luggage rack)

Guess the only good part is the weather was good and we kept the top down the whole time!

Just remember that if you drive an italian car any distance, remove the tools or it will sense this and break down!

[undersea Kat]

try lookind at the Jeep liberty with the 3/4 split rear seat we fit 4 tanks(al 80) & 2-3 full sets of cold water gear quite nicely in mine with 3 people. I've had mine for over a year and still love it. Good luck on the search.

[NWGratefulDiver]

I saw a pretty interesting dive vehicle recently ... an old panel truck that came with it's own wet locker, changing room, and hot tub.

Me? I like this one ... gives a whole new meaning to the term "gas mileage" ...

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

[Tamas]

I have a 2 door Chevy Blazer and it is just perfect for me. I have had 4 people with 8 tanks and cold water gear, camping gear and a cooler in it! No problem. It is strong and large enough for all, and I even sleep in it when too lazy to pitch a tent. It is even more comfortable for 2 divers with all the dressing, gear preparation and what not. Not to mention that go-anywhere aspect of the 4x4 truck.

My dive buddy drives a Subaru Legacy Wagon, which is also a very reasonable vehicle when it comes to diving, more designed for the 2 diver limit (given it's size, carrying capacity and lack of power) it does very well. We even took it on a trip from Toronto to the Keys with room to spare and in comfort.

BUT in all fairness, you can listen here to people's opinions all day/night long and try to decide what you want or what you should get. Most of the opinions and comments you will get are based on their needs, requirements and preference in vehicles. You have first decide the type of diving you do and how often you do it. Face it, most of us have jobs other than diving and we will be using the vehicles 90% of the time for other purposes, so to get a car/truck/van solely based on the scuba needs is not a good point. Get one that will meet the requirements of the daily commute as well as the diving needs. Get one that will be good in the city but will still have the ruggedness and strength to haul the heavy gear around. Get one that will be good on gas yet still allow you to pack in the tanks and the wet gear that you need.

As already mentioned, go look around and take the gear with you to do a dry fit before purchasing. Make sure you look at all the different offerings from your standard car, wagons, to mini-SUVs, to proper size SUVs, to vans and trucks (yes trucks can be outfitted with lockable storage bins/devices that will give you the piece of mind) or even going as far fetched as getting a closed trailer to tow behind you current vehicle for the dive trips - heck I got one and it works great!

[starfish365]

JPBECK - I'd love a JEEP cher....my altime fav vehicle but heard they are pigs on gas...any comments?

I'm currently driving a 92 escort LX....gotta love the hatchback...comes in real handy when making trips to the hardware store but my back screams when I pull my tank out. it can handle all my equip but the depth of the trunk is an issue. So I'm looking for something else with a little more height. Toying with the idea of JEEP or a van....brother has a Safari but nothing but problems with front end so that's put me off. I'm on a budget people, cant afford a Yukon, still working on my first million $...tee hee...

[KrisB]

Well, I'd avoid all Jeep/Chrylser products at all costs. Just a few bad experiences with the brand. Check out Honda's products... they're usually pretty good, and much more "bang" for the "buck" than Jeep (you have to think of the vehicle as an investment that will be worth something in a few years as opposed to a Jeep, where it becomes a throwaway expense that you should be happy to get 5 years out of before it dies completely).

[medic13]

hears my vote GMC ENVOY XUV with a all weather cargo area and drain holes can even be sprayed with water .
http://www.gmc.com/gmcjsp/xuv/index.jsp?source=bnav&brand=home&pageName=

[Tamas]

hears my vote GMC ENVOY XUV with a all weather cargo area and drain holes can even be sprayed with water .
http://www.gmc.com/gmcjsp/xuv/index.jsp?source=bnav&brand=home&pageName=

Look what I found.....

[diverrick]

Just went by and started looking at new Subarus, and I think they have improved on an already good platform. The Baja. It's got the same cockpit size as the Legacy/outback, but the back is a bed instead of the stationwagon style. The tail gate is the perfect hight for donning tanks. And you can get different tops to go on the bed. 25 MPG. My old Subaru consistanly gets 25-27. The Baja also has a few more horses, or you can get a turbocharged version for a few more bucks. I know what I am buying next.

[junior diver]

Get a van. i don't know if divesites are this busy in the states, but in England, almost everybody who dives has a van, you can put your equipment in the back, along with a portable cooker, cool box and mattress with sleeping bag, stay there over night to get a good spot the next day right next to where you're diving

[diverrick]

YEEHAH!! I am replacing my old dive vehicle ( 1996 Subaru Legacy) with a brand new Subaru Legacy in about 12 hours from now.
I got the 35th anniversary special edition. Now I get to go dive in "Luxury". The old Subaru is going fine at 200,000 but I wanted a fresher car to commute in. She was getting a little grey around the temples, but I think she's got a few more years in her if anyone wants to buy her. Any one interested in going over to the North Coast to break in the new one with me? I need to get wet! Maybe abalone/dive trip combined.

[armyscuba]

I can tell You all from Being deployed..it can be a humbling experience. I have had Bronco's, and Expedition and Currently a 3/4 Ton Power Stroke Diesel..I have not seen for 2 years by the way. But after getting to Cuba..I got My 94 Dodge Ram. It looks like something from Sanford and Son. But just the idea of an old Truck ...Period..had been very enlightening. Windows always down..Never Locked..Bed is filled with Scuba Equipment and Gear 24/7. A Pickup bed is great because it acts as a loading platform..making gear rigging very easy..You can hose everything down in the Back if You have too. And You can slip right into Your rig off the Tailgate. Just food for thought..I know this will not work for everyone. And I know I'm in a fantasy world of Daily Scuba Diving. But the principle of maybe not looking for a new vehicle for Scuba Equipment but a Second Vehicle that is useful for Scuba. Spend Your money on the Automobile You really want.

[junior diver]

This is the best scuba car, found it on a site, they slot the tanks underneath the seats with all the gear which is in rubber solid side tubs, they gear up in the car, you know put all the gear together, do the plan on the board at the front, if the site is busy one of them goes there the night before with all everybodys gear and sleeps on the mattress, after the dive they do the debrief in the van with hot food and drinks from the cooker what they keep underneatht the seats in the front, and they keep water in containers just behind the seats in the front then they fill the tubs with water and wash down the gear, BEST SCUBA VECHICLE EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[WVMike]

PurduEE, what do you mean the back is exposed to the elements? The Avalanche has a hard cover over the bed and you don't have to remove the back window when you do the conversion. I vote for the Avalanche (biased here, my husband owns a Chevy dealership :biggrin:).
Ber :lilbunny:

Ber, I would have thought your choice would be a Sleek Black Monte Carlo. ;)

mike

[Iceman900t]

As someone mentioned earlier, a Saab hatchback has tons of room in the rear and is really nice for loading unloading! I love it!! Also, it's quite nice as far as the ride itself...the only problem can be maintenance costs...that's why I'm getting rid of mine..otherwise it's a great car!

Ben

[mgdive]

In a pinch, I took a 2 door ford focus hatchback 250 miles with 2 divers, 4 tanks, and gear with no problems and much comfort. Great gas mileage too! :P

[scubacalifornia]

Ford Expedition. I've had one for six years without a problem. Great for a wife, two kids, a dog and whatever else takes up space. Great for scuba. Fold down the second and third row bench seats and there's a ton of cargo room. The Expedition belongs to my wife, but I've claimed it on weekend mornings and appropriately renamed it the "dive support vehicle".

[B84Shark]

I normally dive with several friends and usually there's between 3 and 6 of us. I just bought a Chevy 1/2 ton crew cab Z71 and it's wonderful. There's plenty of room for passengers and plenty of room for dive gear for several people. Oh, and that 4 wheel drive comes in handy for those beach dives!!

[kvl1027]

I drive one of the NEw Toyota Matrix XR's, i love it kind of sporty looking, and lots of room on the inside. When the back seats are folded down, you get a large flat surface with all Hard plastic construction, so you dont have to worry about damaging anything. There are rails cut into the plastic where you can hook straps to keep your gear from sliding around. the best thing is that you get great gas mileage, and the reliability of a toyota. With the Gas prices as high as they are today, that should be a concern. Not to mention that most Divers are conservationalists, so why not help out the environment.

[Humba]

'97 Landcruiser with the rearmost seats removed. Get the towing packing!

[RonDawg]

I recently came across this thead and found it rather interesting to see some rather gas-guzzling recommendations...until I looked at the dates on the posts and realized many of the recommendations were made well before fuel prices started heading towards the stratosphere.

Knowing what we all (sadly) know about fuel prices today, how many of you would still stick to those recommendations? I'm not talking about the ones recommending Subaru's, but those who recommend less fuel-miserly choices like the Excursion?

For comparison's sake, I drive a 2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 V-6. I once fit three divers and their massive dive bags in it, albeit with no tanks (the boat we were going on supplied them). Two of the bags fit in the trunk, and I folded the 1/3 part of the back seat to fit the third bag. When I had to lug around two tanks for the beach dive part of the O/W cert I could fit four tanks in the trunk along with one bag, and a second in the back seat.

[O2BBubbleFree]

[QUOTE=chrisc]I would opt for a Suburban or H2QUOTE]

When the H2 first came out I remember seeing a TV show about it. The H1 was made by AM General, but Chevy bought the rights for the H2. It's basically a re-bodied Chevy Tahoe/GMC Yukon. Same drive train and suspension. I'd opt for the Tahoe/Yukon as they're cheaper and not as ugly, IMO.

In my experience, the Suburbans and Expeditions are too big to navigate through a parking lot. The Tahoe/Yukon or Explorer would be a better bet. The shorter wheelbase means less cargo room, but how much do you need?

I've been daydreaming lately. I think my inlaws are having trouble making the payments on their Chevy Express 12 Passenger van. Hmmmm. It's a 3500, so should tow a rather large boat. Maybe convert it to a dive camper? Toilet, shower, kitchen, privacy...

[mstudley]

Gas guzzler or not, I drive a Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4WD with a 4.9L V8 and a 6' bed.

I can fit anything in it, tow just about anything, drive anywhere I need to and it drives like a luxury car (with rear wheel drive that is).

As far as I'm concerned it makes for a great SCUBA vehicle. I've been thinking about getting a cap for the bed but I like it open.

[inter_alia]

This is the original poster to this thread. Months ago I was car shopping and I will report that I got a Honda Element afterall. Spacious, tall, green and I'm averaging better gas mileage than they advertise -- especially on the freeway, where I'm getting about 28 mpg even with some crosswind.
So I hope this thread carries on as it has been, I do enjoy getting the updates and am thrilled to see so many pages dedicated to this very superficial topic I was sure that only I would be interested in.
Cheers.

[ShakaZulu]

Sorry to hear that, I want to find the designer of that Honda Element. You know he was having a crappy day when he designed that thing, it's soooo square. What ever happened to aerodynamics............Granted the 04 is begining to look less than a bread delivery truck.

[cancun mark]

I get 2-3 cave divers in a cherokee sport no probs. Small enough to drive around the parking lot without provoking SUV rage, but big enough to not notice a two or three sets of doubles etc. Pretty good on gas too. I would avoid the liberty, it hasnt really got enough space in the back.

[chrisch]

...especially on the freeway, where I'm getting about 28 mpg even with some crosswind.


Boy fuel really is cheap over there...

I really don't like cars at all and would take the motorbike if only I could get the gear on the damn thing.

A reasonable sized station wagon should suffice for dive gear unless you are a big group with lots of tech stuff - twins etc. Then get a minivan..

For the record I have a Peugeot 406 diesel and get 40mpg at speeds that would make the average state trooper have a fit..

The sooner that you guys pay some real tax the better!! Interesting stuff about fuel in Nat Geographic this month - maybe time to think about a low mpg car??

Chris

[inter_alia]

Sorry to hear that [snip] What ever happened to aerodynamics............Granted the 04 is begining to look less than a bread delivery truck.

Aw, I see where you're coming from but somehow -- if you noted my mpg on the freeway -- the aerodynamics only suffer marginally. I guess it's still lighter than most things and maybe the wee 4-cyl 160hp engine saves on economy... but Lego (my name for the Element for now, I think it suits plenty well enough) is just zippy enough around town, too.
Not for everyone, but certainly for me. Waterproof seats, no carpet, not even I can mess this thing up.

Cheers.

[RonDawg]

[QUOTE=chrisc] When the H2 first came out I remember seeing a TV show about it. The H1 was made by AM General, but Chevy bought the rights for the H2. It's basically a re-bodied Chevy Tahoe/GMC Yukon. Same drive train and suspension. I'd opt for the Tahoe/Yukon as they're cheaper and not as ugly, IMO.

Only partly true. Yes the H2 is based on the chassis, and uses many of the same components (including drivetrain) of the Tahoe/Yukon/Suburban.

However, the vehicle is still manufactured by AM General.

Where the confusion lies is that AM General is now part of the General Motors family. But then again so is Saturn and SAAB.

[flw]

I recently came across this thead and found it rather interesting to see some rather gas-guzzling recommendations...until I looked at the dates on the posts and realized many of the recommendations were made well before fuel prices started heading towards the stratosphere.

Knowing what we all (sadly) know about fuel prices today, how many of you would still stick to those recommendations? I'm not talking about the ones recommending Subaru's, but those who recommend less fuel-miserly choices like the Excursion?




Depends on what you mean by stratospheric rises really - as far as I know your fuel costs are still _way_ under those in Europe. I paid 96.5p/l( works out around $7/gallon) for diesel this morning, which is only marginally higher than this time last year - I drive a Toyota Hilux, expensive, but I choose to live in the sticks and need a 4wd car that can also tow a boat/fit in assorted children/hens/sheep

[RonDawg]

Oh I've been to the UK (4 times actually) so I know what it's like to pay painfully high fuel prices!

Even though we Americans still pay less than you do for "petrol", when the price has pretty much gone up 50% or more within a span of just a few months, it's fair to call that "stratospheric." My car, which isn't exactly a gas guzzler, now costs $40 to fill up from empty. When I bought it a little over a year ago, the same fill-up was under $30.

And when I was last the UK (April 2003, right at the start of the Iraq war) I don't recall seeing, much less paying, 96.5p/litre. Most places were in the mid to high 70's, and when I saw a petrol station on the A4 west of London I thought they were insane by asking 85p!!!

[flw]

There is more to the UK than London, regardless of what those in the BBC would have you believe. I live in the northern most bit of Scotland, where prices have always been higher, as fuel has to come up by tanker.
My monthly fuel bill is somewhere around the Ł200-300 mark, so $40 seems ridiculously cheap, and not worth whinging about

[RonDawg]

Actually I've seen quite a bit of the UK on my various visits. The only parts that I haven't been to are East Anglia, Northern Ireland, the Midlands, the various islands (Jersey/Guernsey/Man/etc.) and the part of Scotland north of Inverness. Everywhere else I've at least driven through if not stopped.

One of these days I've got to dive Britain...but only after I get my drysuit cert first ;)

[srkdvr]

:crafty:
Dodge Ram 1500, on my second one now. Enough room for 3 in the front and plenty of room in the back for all the gear you want to carry.


Rich

[fishfood]

lol one of the instructors i have seen at the beach like 3 times drives a corvet... u should get one fits 2 hp 80 or smaller in the back seat.. remeber u work on your trim even out of the water... he has a very compact bc and wet suit in the trunk... your gloves hood boots and reg in the front seat... ohh yeah u can put your mask defog in the cup holder... i just dont know were u stores his weight..

so get a corvet man :crafty:

[KrisB]

lol one of the instructors i have seen at the beach like 3 times drives a corvet... u should get one fits 2 hp 80 or smaller in the back seat.. remeber u work on your trim even out of the water... he has a very compact bc and wet suit in the trunk... your gloves hood boots and reg in the front seat... ohh yeah u can put your mask defog in the cup holder... i just dont know were u stores his weight..

so get a corvet man :crafty:
last I checked, Corvettes don't have back seats... so you're hooped -- someone else has to bring your tanks!

[frenchy07]

I like the Element, been playing with one for a year now. My lady hates it just because (and i quote) "it looks like a rubbermaid box". 1st time i saw it i hated it as well, then i drove it and fell in love. Tons of room inside, comfy seats, good ac, and a kick ass stereo. The "big" v-tech engine (strong, powerfull) with the 5 speed makes it very easy to drive (did 30 foot burnouts with the one I'm playing with). Probally the best thing i can say is the drive train is almost bulletproof (should be good for 300K), Honda engineer told me they have never had a V-Tech head failure that could not be traced to lack of lubrication (you know, putting oil in!!). Keep the oil changed and you should be one happy puppy, that is if you like tooling around in a rubbermaid box making 24 MPG.

[The Kraken]

Mini-vans of any make.

[mtnredhed]

if it's just you and a buddy...with the backseats down, 4 tanks and two big dive bags fit no problem. Plus awd and great gas milage. Rear gate loading height is very nice too. Could probably go 6 tanks

[babar]

'98 honda civic *shrug* It's cheap.

babar
and it fills for 14 bucks

[hermosadive]

We love our Xterra. Spent 12 days in Baja transporting 3 of us with full camping gear, 3 surfboards, snorkel/spearfishing gear. Easily holds 4 tanks and gear. Backseats are raised to provide stadium seating for passengers. Nice sized auto, without getting into a huge obnoxious SUV.

Roland

[Jmaserati]

Here is my ultimate Scuba adventure vehicle!:

http://www.sportsmobile.com/2_sr_2500.html

You can customize this and put in a shower/toilet module.

Best thing is being able to stand up inside (I'm 6'3")

Diesel engine (although I hate that rattle) gets about 20 MPG, plenty of power left to tow trailer, and the thing only costs from $25k - $45k customized!!

[darylm74]

I believe any smaller SUV is the best route. You have the power and storage you need to get places and you don't have to worry about tighter squeezes that some of the bigger vehicles can't go through or are top heavy. I have a jeep cherokee and I go pretty much where I want to. It has the power to go back through the jeep trails that I need to get through to a trailhead or a back field quarry. The Xterra, Explorer SportTrac or a similiar vehicle is probably your best. I would definitely check out the Jeep Liberty as well, just stay away from the Grand Cherokees. Know several people around here who have had problems with them and have a small yellow balloon on them denoting a lemon.

[MSilvia]

I have a Subaru Legacy wagon. I haul everything from Hay bales to dogs, to dive gear. It has almost the same back space as a S-10 Blazer believe it or not, You can lock everything up in it, Lots of leg room, Great gas Mileage, handles superbly especially in rain or snow, goes just about anywhere, easy to work on, and affordable. I love my car!

I got a Subaru Loyale wagon (the predecessor to the Legacy) and was suprised to find it roomier than my old Nissan Pathfinder. I'll definately second it as a great scuba sled, but having blown and fixed the head gasket on mine, I can't really agree with the "easy to work on" bit. Easy to maintain? absolutely. Easy to fix? I guess it depends on what your fixing, but with a 4 cylinder opposing piston "pancake" engine, getting the timing set if you take it apart can be a bear.

[fmw625]

I had a Safari van prior to being certified. Used it for a shore dive and found it great. Third seat has been removed, lots of room for gear and has plenty of room for 4 people. The cargo area is high enough to comfortably assemble and don equiptment without bending or squating. Had to use a plastic tote to protect carpet from getting wet though.

[spectrum]

Our 2001 Windstar works out nice when my Wife and I go snorkeling. The middle seat just went back in after being out all summer. With the 2 sliding doors we carry the gear in the middle and each have an open slider to suit up in front of.

She made a set of curtains that string up on the 4 coat hooks so we can change to or from street clothes even if there's no facillities around. And while I'm on that topic the curtains also allow use of the porta pottie whever we are.

If I'm solo the back of my Aerostar works out fine and with 4WD I can be a little braver about where I park.

Pete

[htn123]

Boy, 12 pages, lots of info, I read about 6 of them and then decided to jump to the last page.

Yes, lot's discussion nice car, room, seat...

but the most important thing to me is SAFETY,SAFETY,SAFETY, and then more SAFETY.

When we go somewhere, we have lot's of gears, tanks, spear guns and shafts. I would not want all of that stuffs inside the same space with us.

I know I drive safely but the idiot next to me is the one I worry about. Imagine some drunk driver rear ended you with all the tanks and spear guns, and shafts and stuff flying toward your head or your kids head!!!!!.

I saw a pictures of some poor guy's tank exploded inside his stationwagon. Let just say picture a sardine can got opened violently....... OUCH. :frown:

And the idea of wet stuffs on the inside carpet and it will sit there and mold up.... OUCH. :11:

I got me a truck, Nissan Titan of that. Or any truck is fine. I have all the room in the back for all the equipment. If something happens, it stays in the back. Oh and I got myself a soft cover just in case we have a long drive to a dive location, the sun sure will heat up those tanks and sure don't want that to happens. Also, it protects the stuffs from the prying eyes of others.

So I say a nice pickup truck is the way to go.

[VTernovski]

I like the Element, been playing with one for a year now. My lady hates it just because (and i quote) "it looks like a rubbermaid box". 1st time i saw it i hated it as well, then i drove it and fell in love. Tons of room inside, comfy seats, good ac, and a kick *** stereo. The "big" v-tech engine (strong, powerfull) with the 5 speed makes it very easy to drive (did 30 foot burnouts with the one I'm playing with). Probally the best thing i can say is the drive train is almost bulletproof (should be good for 300K), Honda engineer told me they have never had a V-Tech head failure that could not be traced to lack of lubrication (you know, putting oil in!!). Keep the oil changed and you should be one happy puppy, that is if you like tooling around in a rubbermaid box making 24 MPG.


Could the Element be ordered with V6? or is it only a 4?

[cudachaser]

I like my Chevy Venture with it's flexible seat arrangements

[mack50md]

Seems easy enough to calculate your cargo space needs. Arrange and pack your gear and travel luggage on a tarp, measure it, and estimate how many cubic feet you need.

Add the number of passengers and their gear (assuming they have nearly the same amount), and allow for some extra space. Narrow your choices from there (truck, wagon, van, etc..).

Consider the ease of loading/unloading. Narrow again.

Decide on 2W or 4W drive (for shore diving, climate, etc..) narrow it down some more.

Look at your pesonal preferences for manufacturer, warranties, equipment/options. List is getting shorter.

Bounce that against your budget and you're on the road.

I recommend you do on-line model comparisons and shopping on Edmunds.com (http://www.edmunds.com)

For the record, I use an F-150 Supercrew which I bought for hauling a troop of boy scouts before I took up diving. I did the above with camping gear. I like the F-150 Supercrew for the same reasons AggieDiver told you in the 1st page of posts.

Good luck!

[darylm74]

I love the new Ford F150's and my first vehicle was a '73 and my second was an '86 ford truck. With that said, 4x4 is the way to go. If you have a nice dive spot that is easy access than hey any car will do, really. On the other hand, the quarry we go to here requires at the very least a 4 wheel drive van. I have a '99 jeep cherokee, not the grand, right now. I could tell you that I wouldn't trade it for the world. There are tons around Pittsburgh right now, handles the snow and the jeep trail up to where we dive with no problem. These vehicles were made for the military and police originally and were sold to the public due to their popularity with the normal "consumer" base ehancments. In fact, at this moment, my wife is out in it to go get our son at his grandfathers in flooding that has taken a few lives here and I send her out with confidence, she's made it there and is on her way back. I'd suggest this vehicle to anyone

[Groundhog246]

...I saw a pictures of some poor guy's tank exploded inside his stationwagon. Let just say picture a sardine can got opened violently....... OUCH. :frown:

And the idea of wet stuffs on the inside carpet and it will sit there and mold up.... OUCH. :11:

I got me a truck, Nissan Titan of that. Or any truck is fine. I have all the room in the back for all the equipment. If something happens, it stays in the back. ....So I say a nice pickup truck is the way to go.
I hear what you're saying, but. I think I've seen that picture of the station wagon. I've also seen pictures of a concrete block wall, where a tank fell and snapped the valve. It went through the 8" block wall and 2 more wood stud walls. The body metal of a truck might slow it down, it won't stop it. If it's aimed at the cab when it goes, it'll join you in the cab.

[htn123]

I hear what you're saying, but. I think I've seen that picture of the station wagon. I've also seen pictures of a concrete block wall, where a tank fell and snapped the valve. It went through the 8" block wall and 2 more wood stud walls. The body metal of a truck might slow it down, it won't stop it. If it's aimed at the cab when it goes, it'll join you in the cab.

Sure, if the stuffs REALLY hit the fan like you said, beside driving a tank, not much you can do about that. But it sure is much better knowing you have 2 layers of sheet metal between you and the stuffs in the truck bed vs having none in a car/van/stationwagon.

[outlawaggie]

I drive a Nissan Xterra. Love it!! Lots of room for passangers, gear and bags. Easy drive too.

Good luck!!

For a truck my vote goes to the new 4 door Nissan Titan. For a SUV the Xterra would be my choice. The new Armada is also nice but almost to big.

[scubadoguk]

Sorry to say I have a Pontiac Montana extended version,
With all the rear seats out I can get dive gear galore in there, on the down side of it I have had it for 3 yrs two transmissions and other bits and pieces, it has 95 k on the clock and yes its a nice vehicle I have loaded 6 cylinders and two sets drove for 6 hrs to a dive site, and camped in the Back of it for a week.
I am off this week to get a pick up I really do have a downer on this van. don't go here:)

[Groundhog246]

Sure, if the stuffs REALLY hit the fan like you said, beside driving a tank, not much you can do about that. But it sure is much better knowing you have 2 layers of sheet metal between you and the stuffs in the truck bed vs having none in a car/van/stationwagon.
Most station wagons have a pretty substantial piece of metal in the rear seat backs, to keep cargo in the cargo spaces. On our little wagon, there heavy metal in the seat back and if you lower the back seat, you raise the seat bottom and you can see the heavy metal bottom under the lower seat which is there to provide protection (it'a a lot more metal than you'd need to provide structure for the seat).

That said, I can agree with you're wanting to keep them out of the passenger area. I occasionally carry them in our wagon or our van to the LDS for fills, but most often they ride in our custom trailer "behind" the vehicle.

I ended up parked beside a guy who'd been tailgating me one day in the spring. I was in a bit of a foul mood, so spoke to him for a moment and pointed out that the trailer he almost ran into when I stopped for a light, contained EIGHT fully filled to 3000 PSI, scuba cylinders and desribed what would happened if ruptured. It was an interesting look on his face. I suggested that any time he saw a dive flag sticker or painted on a vehicle, he should assume it has one or more aboard (I have a 16" flag painted on the back) and leave a little space.

[SuPrBuGmAn]

Its all in how you pack ;)

http://www.suprbugman.com/albums/album12/Picture_016.sized.jpg
^^ 4 Door Honda Civic 'Wagovan' ^^

2 Tents, 4 sleeping bags, 4 folding chairs, 4 sets of divegear, 6 tanks, 4 bags of clothes/toiletries, 4 large adults, and a crapload of junk food. This is my buddies daily driver, it gets 35+ mpg regularly and it was getting 29-30mpg with the load described above on a 6 hour trip one way to a camp/dive location.

I drive a Bronco II, it'll hold 3 sets of dive gear, 6 tanks, my 10' Zodiac w/10hp motor/tank/boat-goodies, and 3 people uncomfortably :) It gets 19-20mpg and I don't like taking it too far. LOL

I bought the Bronco because my '66 Beetle was doing all it could to carry 2 people and 2 sets of dive gear w/4tanks.


I'm thinking about selling the Bronc and getting a Jetta or Passat wagon... Toureg if I strike oil in the backyard.

[the_bandit]

Nissan Navara STR for me (or a Nissan Titan if you are in the states)

Sits 4, got a lockable cover on the tray with alarm trigger switch, and when we get back home, just hose it out to lose the salt water! :eyebrow:

[MyDiveLog]

The perfect combination of a sedan and a 'scubamobile.' I like a smooth, quiet ride, and you get that. You can get a plastic liner for the back that keeps all the salt water from going everywhere. I installed two "tank racks" on each side of the back ... simply bought the 'closing fingers' type that are meant for dive boats and screwed them into the opposing handles in the back. It's big enought to fit a huge rubbermaid tub, where I put all my stuff for beach diving, and has plenty of room for a dive buddies' stuff as well.

[Heavy D]

:06:

[Heavy D]

PurduEE, what do you mean the back is exposed to the elements? The Avalanche has a hard cover over the bed and you don't have to remove the back window when you do the conversion. I vote for the Avalanche (biased here, my husband owns a Chevy dealership :biggrin:).
Ber :lilbunny:
My vote has to go for the Avalanche as well, I've been looking and this seems to be good for many reasons.

1. Seating room for 4 full size divers
2. Covered cargo area to prevent theft and weathering of gear
3. Room for more gear than you'll probably ever need
4. Cargo area is sparate from passenger area preventing wet carpets and having to smell stinky gear
5. Can convert to carry more gear if necessary and have towing capabilities if you want to pull a boat or travel trailer

As a testimony, 2 Instructors and a DM from my LDS have all bought Avalanches in the last 3-6 months

[Jacobsen]

I drive a 1996 Isuzu Rodeo. It's become my ultimate dive truck. Lots of room and very reliable.

[Sue-ba]

Check out my scubamobile in my profile! ;)

[scubapro50]

How about a Ford Explorer Sport-Trac (http://www.fordvehicles.com/suvs/explorersporttrac/index.asp?bhcp=1) ?
I own a 1996 Ford Explorer 2 dr. Sport ...... has plenty of room to haul all the gear for me and the wife ..... been very dependable ..... after 119,000 have replace the shocks, brakes, battery, tires twice, 2 EPA sensors and the fan belt. Love this SUV because I can change oil with out a problem (filter is easy to reach). Ford treated me right .... had problem with Firestone tires but Ford made it right by reimbursing me for the cost of new Goodyears after Firestone gave hassle.
.

[IceBergSlim]

I live in Manhattan. That creates many issues regarding car choice. I must say that my Landrover Freelander has worked out qute well as a NYC DiveMobile. With a decent roofrack I can load up 4 students, gear and myself and bring all to the local quarry in air conditoned comfort. This ride will also get me to hard to reach shore dive locations (especially in the snowy winter) as well as haul the doubles and other crap to the local wreck diving boats during the summer months.
The Gas mileage is pretty ok and the size makes it easy to drive and park in the city. Foto attached (I tink)
Just my 2 pence

[TekDiveGirl]

My vote has to go for the Avalanche as well, I've been looking and this seems to be good for many reasons.

1. Seating room for 4 full size divers
2. Covered cargo area to prevent theft and weathering of gear
3. Room for more gear than you'll probably ever need
4. Cargo area is sparate from passenger area preventing wet carpets and having to smell stinky gear
5. Can convert to carry more gear if necessary and have towing capabilities if you want to pull a boat or travel trailer

As a testimony, 2 Instructors and a DM from my LDS have all bought Avalanches in the last 3-6 months

I just bought one last week and am in love with it! It is fabulous!!! I have been calling it my new boyfriend! I bought it for the above reasons and others. You can't go wrong with the Avalanche. Mine has a shell on it as well so I have even more versitility.

Kimber

[CNTdiver]

I am a single diver and drive a Mazda Miata to get around with equipment. Although it is one of the smallest cars available, it gets me, 1 set of doubles, 2 deco bottles, and 2 large pelican cases to the dive sites.

[Scott Riemer]

I can personally recommend the Chevy Avalanche.

[SteveDiver]

This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument but I'll risk it.
I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.

Thanks!

I drive a BMW X5 and it fits all my equipment very well. So I would suggest an BMW X5 or if you want less expensive I would suggest a Ford Escape, Explorer or Sport Trac. Nope, not a Ford fan here however they are cost effecient for someone starting out ...

[Vie]

Volvo 850 T5R station wagon (yellow, of course). Fits four adults (AND a child seat, if you must), all their diving gear and more on the roof if needed. Very safe, pretty fast.

[mkt]

totally late and after the fact, but my girlfriends Scion xB works surprisingly well at hauling 2 divers and gear around, while getting 30+ mpg. My lil nissan sentra does pretty well also, albeit riding around with cylinders in the back seat.

[Scubakevdm]

Hmm... I dive a lot, so I guess I'd have to go with a Water Car. (http://www.watercar.com/photo.html)

http://www.watercar.com/images/10large.jpg

[seaviper]

you prolly need neoprene seat covers for the water car though....


O|||||||O
Jeep Driver

[BadLatitude]

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-4/987275/truck.JPG

chevy 3500 extended cab with 150 gallon L shaped inbed fueltank , truck box for locking stuff up. When the back seat is not in use its folded up and i can carry almost a dozen tanks upright. when folded down we have a tank rack for in the bed. I can load 4 guys in the truck comfy 5 if somone sits in the middle in back. with 4 tanks each as well as a pile of spearguns , coolers all their gear bags. while towing a 23 foot proline. Its my dive gear hauling machine to the max

[alo100]

Hybrid car, any size you wanted.
Someone told me I need to drive the car for 8-10 years before I get back the extra $ paid for the hybrid. However for my case, I drive around (besides work) a lot, like x2.

To me, it make a lot of sense, I don't know about the price for gas at your state, but in the future esp when you get a 4x4 or so, it's going to make a big difference. Station to station.

[alo100]

Hybrid car, any size you wanted.
Someone told me I need to drive the car for 8-10 years before I get back the extra $ paid for the hybrid. However for my case, I drive around (besides work) a lot, like x2.

To me, it make a lot of sense, I don't know about the price for gas at your state, but in the future esp when you get a 4x4 or so, it's going to make a big difference. Station to station.


e.g. If I get the hybrid accord, the consumption is like a civic.

[Arcaporale]

honda ridgeline!

[adrisen]

I drive a Mazda protege 5, it was great before I started diving. I find that I can fit my gear in fine but if there is someone else with me it is tight. If I am camping then it is really too small. By the time I jam everything in I can't see out the back. When I now go camping I borrow my mothers envoy which is wonderful on a long drive.

I looked at a few vehicles, non of which is a hybrid, I did some research on them and find they are not worth the money that they are asking for, no is the savings there.

I looked at the avalance, element (not really my cup of tea) The honda ridgline, the H3 and I can't remember what else. I narrowed out what I can get in Deseil, more money but you can go farther on the deseil. I have not decided yet but perhaps soon

[mfalco]

Hybrid car, any size you wanted.
Someone told me I need to drive the car for 8-10 years before I get back the extra $ paid for the hybrid. However for my case, I drive around (besides work) a lot, like x2.

To me, it make a lot of sense, I don't know about the price for gas at your state, but in the future esp when you get a 4x4 or so, it's going to make a big difference. Station to station.


e.g. If I get the hybrid accord, the consumption is like a civic.

Did you take into account the price of the batteries when they die? they will cost more than the car is worth. the auto industry has found a way to market disposable cars as enviromentally friendly.

[CBulla]

I'm very partial to a Jeep Wrangler, but thats just me and because I don't do anything that I can't get in trouble doing (or so it seems).

I'm also partial to the Suburu Baja and VW Things :)

Then again you could get a Jeep Liberty diesel and make your own biodiesel for roughly $.80 a gal :)

[mfalco]

Then again you could get a Jeep Liberty diesel and make your own biodiesel for roughly $.80 a gal :)


Unfortunately you can't get most diesel vehicles in Massachusetts

"The CRD engine does not meet the LEV II emission standards that became effective this year in California. As a result, the Liberty diesel will not be available in California or in other states that adopted California emission standards (Massachusetts, Maine, New York, Vermont)."

[michaelb51]

This thread will likely quickly turn into a Ford-Chevy argument but I'll risk it.
I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this.
As a starting point, I'm considering (oh no) the Honda Element. It's so ugly I can't resist but want to know if scubaboard has any suggestions.

Thanks!

I guess automobiles are like (*) opinions. Everybody has one.

We bought an Element, and I'm so glad. It carries on one trip: My kayak and gear, hang glider and gear, dive gear, camping gear for two, two retro bicycles and two grups. It's pretty much unphased by water inside and both floor and seats can be wiped down.

If you think my car is ugly, you probably haven't seen my ears.

[adrisen]

I am waiting to see the new 4 door jeep wrangler TJ which is soon to hit the dealership. 4 doors with a soft top on a jeep with more room to boot. I am very intregiued about it.

[Jim Lapenta]

Pontiac aztec. I love mine. 7 tanks, 3 dive bags, canopy, two folding chairs, my fiance's wheelchair and still have lots of room.

[PirateDiver614]

Does anybody know how dive friendly the Toyota FJ Cruiser is? Anybody got one???

[WartedEmperor]

You do not want that SUV. One of my friends has the FJ and she can not stand it. It also has a ton of air noise and it is not very comfortable. :auto::m16:

[El Orans]

I'm now awaiting delivery of this car...

http://foto.autozone.be/fotoseurotax/450/renault-megane-grandtour-phase-ii-diesel-5211.jpg

http://www.renault.be/central/media/megane-estate-k84/att00002644/Home_L193SW0162.jpg

Keyless entry, enough space for two sets of gear and an easy way to kit up.

[cavew0man]

You do not want that SUV. One of my friends has the FJ and she can not stand it. It also has a ton of air noise and it is not very comfortable. :auto::m16:

Agreed - I had a 2007 for about eight months. The rear visibility was very bad. It has a lot of good points, but look closely at how much stowage space you get in the back - it's extremely small for the outward size of the vehicle. Nice features are the fairly indestructible interior, the big controls, and it IS stylish looking. Handles not bad, I put on a lot of highway miles. I did have comments from passengers in the rear that it wasn't very comfortable back there.

Last point, I had a heck of a time finding a buyer when I decided it wasn't for me and wanted to sell it. (This was in Canada).

[rstofer]

Well, a Chevy Trail Blazer is a little tight for 5 people and equipment for 4 including wetsuits plus normal luggage. We looked at a used Chevy Avalanche and it looks perfect. The stubby truck bed with cover should hold all of the gear, the tailgate would be nice for sitting on while dressing and it should carry the herd quite comfortably.

A used 2004 with 41,000 miles was $15k and a new 2009 looks like $36k to $44k. There's no way we'll be buying a new one.

The other possibility sounds absurd but seems to work. Most of the herd and some of the equipment in the Trail Blazer and the rest of the stuff in a Chevy Silverado pickup. It adds about $40 in gas to the trip but that's a lot of trips before it pays for a new Avalanche.

Richard

[mike_s]

My father drives a Trail blazer... it doesnt have much cargo room. I can't say I'd suggest it as a car to drive over other ones out there....

I doubt you could get 5 people + gear + tanks (2 each or 10 total) + luggage in it. the cargo area just isn't that big. maybe you could put a gear bag (or two) on the luggage rack, but 3 people in that back seat is kinda snug also. (the back seat ride isn't comfortable either in my opinion and also the driver visibility out of the rear windows SUCKS.


I've got a full size Tahoe and it works great. I just have a HUSKY Mat in the back to put gear on. This is a MUST for any SUV owner and even more so for someone who dives. the HUSKY Mat catches any moisture and sand from getting into the carpet. keeps that wet mildew smell down. When done just pull out the matt and hose off. (or don't and it'll dry on its own). But no worries about wet carpet from gear bags or wetsuits.

The Tahoe has great room in the cargo area for 4+ sets of tanks and full sets of gear. You can easily ride 3 people with room in the back seat also.

The only downfall is gas mileage. about 18mpg on a trip. (if you're lucky). But gas prices have dropped recently. (paid $1.67/gallon this weekend) and makes it more affordable to drive on a trip.

[divestoclimb]

The Honda Element is awesome. I posted a couple threads on the Element Owner's Club forum about dive trips in it: here (http://elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37751) and here (http://elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=39125).

[lifes an ocean]

I would have to say I have seen the Honda Element used, but also I just recently bought a Honda Ridgeline, and it is great. It has the bed space to hold all the gear you need, plus and in bed trunk for extra hideaway space, and fits 5 people comfortably.

[Teamcasa]

Well, a Chevy Trail Blazer is a little tight for 5 people and equipment for 4 including wetsuits plus normal luggage. We looked at a used Chevy Avalanche and it looks perfect. The stubby truck bed with cover should hold all of the gear, the tailgate would be nice for sitting on while dressing and it should carry the herd quite comfortably.

A used 2004 with 41,000 miles was $15k and a new 2009 looks like $36k to $44k. There's no way we'll be buying a new one.

The other possibility sounds absurd but seems to work. Most of the herd and some of the equipment in the Trail Blazer and the rest of the stuff in a Chevy Silverado pickup. It adds about $40 in gas to the trip but that's a lot of trips before it pays for a new Avalanche.

Richard



My wife loves her Trailblazer but when we go (local) diving we take my crew cab pickup. It holds all the gear and room for much more.

BTW, the Avalanche is also a great truck, in the business we call them transformers.

[sphillips3]

Chevy Express 3500 passenger van. Take out the two rear bench seats and I have seating for 8 and still enough cargo space for 18 sets of doubles (or 40 Al 80s), deco bottles and all the gear bags. Comfy enough to drive from here to Rimuski or the springs area. Power windows, seats, tilt, cruise, air and a great stereo. I can tow a 10,000 lb trailer if I need to really get serious.

Oh, did I mention the 498 CID big-block EFI? 80 mph over the West Virgina hills no problem. Locking diff and lots of ground clearance so it even goes off road OK.

OK - so it gets 10 to 13 mpg (less with the trailer) but I sure can carry the gear. You can almost stand up inside so it's really easy to load and unload.

[ZKY]

I use a Toyota Tacoma 4x4 pick up with a shell. I can tow my boat and the 4 wheel drive comes in handy on some of the beaches and places I need to launch and retrieve the boat. The gear gets thrown in the back along with the fish and other game and I don't have to smell it on the way home. It get's good mileage and is a 300K mileage life span vehicle easy, as long as you take care of it.
Toyota rules!

[D_B]

Another vote for the Chevy Avalanche ( :bounce3: )
5 people in the cab, 4 wheel drive, short enough wheelbase to turn tightly, can tow a trailer, lock your gear in the back, and you can even take a garden hose and rinse your gear off while it's still in the back :)

[Straegen]

Been mentioned earlier, but the Ridgeline is king IMO. I am no scuba expert, but I do a lot of backpacking, camping, dirt bike riding and a lot of kayaking. It is hard to beat a truck that is 4wd (light duty but good enough for all but the toughest work), has a huge trunk with a drain, flip up backseats for tons of storage, 5k lbs towing, strongest tailgate of any truck out there allowing the bed to be extended easily and well it is a Honda with their legendary durability. Without a doubt one of the most flexible vehicles for an outdoor enthusiast. I picked mine up for 21k so it is also very affordable. If it had a stock hose out interior, it would be almost perfect.

[Otto]

You didn't say where you dive, or if you camp. If you are mostly on good roads a small trailer has many advantages including less cost than a new vehicle, no stench/ moisture in the vehicle, have it loaded before it's time to leave, full passanger capacity in the vehicle. I bought a Thule and really have enjoyed its 1300lb load capacity, 300lb weight. Please note that I camp. Dive safe.

[DiverBizz]

I have a 1500 Dodge Ram 4 door that is great throw the dive equipment in the back or if it is bad weather the stuff goes in the back seat. I am selling that now and getting a Saturn still holds my dive stuff and is a great tow vehicle for my RV.

[NudeDiver]

I am in the market for a new car and since I've been in a Honda Civic (the antithesis of a scuba-friendly automobile, IMHO) for three years, I'm looking at better options. Never one to care much about what I drive (obviously), I should say appearance isn't my primary concern. Neither is an enormous engine or AWD. I want to haul tanks, gear, a friend or two and be as comfortable as possible when doing this. Get a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (4-door) and you'll have all you could want - and a removable top.

[jswantek]

I have an '01 chevy blazer...4dr, 4wd...just fold down the back seats, throw down a cheap blue tarp and I have plenty of room for two sets of gear. There's even cargo tie-downs in the back and a roof rack for longer items. It's not the best on gas, but it'll get me wherever I need to go and it's comfortable to drive...it's even big enough that I can stretch out and take a nap in it on a surface interval. The liftgate is great for getting out of weather and it's the right height for getting geared up directly out of...

[ohmdiver]

I have experimented with diffrent cars. I am also a cheap skate of sorts. I tend to meet my dive buddies at the dive site, or boat so I really only think in terms of 2 divers.

My first dive car was a 87 Chevy S-10 blazer. It worked great. right up until I had driven it into the ground. (this was a truck I had before I started diving and I did alot of mean and nasty stuff to it)

I down sized to a Toyota wagon. The back lip was too high to use as a donning point, but it was also a time when my wife wasn't diving so I built up the lip with some wood. Did great for what I needed it for.

Bought a Saturn sedan.... Worst Dive car ever!!!!

Ran Two Ford Escorts, 4 door. (Not a big Ford guy) These were fantastic, I put the back seeats downand cut in a piece of plywood and leveled it up a bit. I would place 4 tanks upright behind the front seats, bungeed to the head rest with towels between them so the tanks didn't rattle, my gear, my camping gear, two coolers, and still would have room for my wifes stuff too. Drove both cars into the dirt.

My latest dive"mobile" is a 97 Dodge Caravan, that I am going to gut the interior and costumize strickly as a dive machine, so this one is a work in progress....

[thunsaker]

I have a 2003 Chevy Cavalier. It fits all my gear, but if I bring something else, it gets tight. I have had this car for almost 6 year and have been diving for 5 years. I will probably drive the car until I run it into the ground. I was thinking about buying the honda Element when It comes time to buy a new car, which looks like a good car for diving.

[Txfirefighter4305]

I have a 2004 Ford Explorer LMT AWD. Five divers and gear makes for 13 MPG on the highway!

I wonder if anyone would choose an M35A2?

[Tortuga68]

http://www.qv500.com/jblotus%204.jpg

[NudeDiver]

FWIW, I'm currently building an off-road adventure SCUBA support trailer. Such a trailer could turn any number of vehicles into useful SCUBA vehicles. Just need a tow hitch and the balls to haul it. (:

Work in progress...

[llqwyd]

Nissan Titan 4DR - plenty of room inside, reliable, well-built and well thought out. I use two every day for diving here in Kauai!

[D_B]

FWIW, I'm currently building an off-road adventure SCUBA support trailer. Such a trailer could turn any number of vehicles into useful SCUBA vehicles. Just need a tow hitch and the balls to haul it. (:

Work in progress...Cool :)

couple of suggestions for off road
.. ring / pintal hook instead of ball hitch (can use a pintal/ball hook so can tow both) it wont come unhitched at truck/trailer angles
.. shock absorbers on trailer .... you ever watch a lightly loaded trailer bounce down the freeway, or drive a car with bad shocks?

... there is a reason that all military trailers have them

[Roko]

I use my 2005 Jeep TJ...

It's a tight fit, but we can fit 6 AL80s, 2 sets of dive gear (with drysuits), and camping gear for a weekend of diving in the mountains...

Not the most economical vehicle, but my Fun-Per-Gallon is through the roof.

Also, did I mention.. It has a Snorkel?

[roturner]

I have a Fiat Doblo.

It's not a car you would go cruising in but it's got enough room for 3 divers and gear.

It's got sliding doors on the side, you can stand two double sets up in the back of it with the back open and the back end is at the perfect sitting distance from the ground. Moreover with the back open the door is above your head so you can stand out of the rain to change if it happens to be raining.

As far as I'm concerned it's a perfect divemobile.

Mine also gets about 75 miles to the US gallon of diesel and over here they sell for about 20k Euros.

R..

[NudeDiver]

I have a Fiat Doblo.OP is in the US. I do not believe your vehicle is available here. US Govt would never let us have such a fuel efficient diesel in a standard passenger vehicle.


Cool :)couple of suggestions for off road
.. ring / pintal hook instead of ball hitch (can use a pintal/ball hook so can tow both) it wont come unhitched at truck/trailer anglesI'm doing one better. I'm planning to get a "multi-axis coupler" that will do what you are describing, even better. Expensive though.


.. shock absorbers on trailer .... Yeah, I was going to put some on. But it got to be too complicated with the design I ended up using for the multi-position (adjustable) axle.


you ever watch a lightly loaded trailer bounce down the freeway, or drive a car with bad shocks?... there is a reason that all military trailers have themYeah, I've seen that. I've even towed that (: But I don't think this trailer will have that problem. It, unfortunately, is going to weigh somewhere around 1500 pounds empty. Quite heavier than I would like, but I don't think it will go bouncing around as much as a lighter trailer would.

FWIW, its built for 3500 pounds. I'm hoping to have at least 2000 pounds available for cargo. We'll see how it goes.

[D_B]

It sounds like a well thought out rig .. keep us posted :D

(side note ... do a search for "off road trailer" and it seems the Aussies have a good handle on making some interesting designs)

[ohmdiver]

.... unfortunately, is going to weigh somewhere around 1500 pounds empty. Quite heavier than I would like, but I don't think it will go bouncing around as much as a lighter trailer would.

FWIW, its built for 3500 pounds. I'm hoping to have at least 2000 pounds available for cargo. We'll see how it goes.

Don't mean to harsh your mellow, but...


I can't tell from the photos but do you have electric brakes for that? You are moving into the realm of needing a braking system on the trailer.

I can tell you that if the trailer alone weighs more than 1000 lbs. here in NY you are required to have electric brakes....

[NudeDiver]

It sounds like a well thought out rig .. keep us posted :DWell, I would definitely do some things differently, had I had it to do over again - but that's the nature of this stuff, live and learn, ya know? One thing is for sure - this sucker is built like a tank. I wanted it to be sturdy - a trailer that can go anywhere the Jeep can go - but it's a bit overbuilt. A bit bigger, a bit heavier than I would like - but I'm pretty sure it will meet its purpose just fine.


(side note ... do a search for "off road trailer" and it seems the Aussies have a good handle on making some interesting designs)I did lots of searching before starting this project (: I got ideas from a number of places, including those down under ones. Those things are EXPENSIVE though. I figured I could build something cheaper from scratch. Now I'm not so sure. If I had it to do over again, I would have just bought one (:


Don't mean to harsh your mellow, but...I can't tell from the photos but do you have electric brakes for that? You are moving into the realm of needing a braking system on the trailer.Yes, of course it has electric brakes.


I can tell you that if the trailer alone weighs more than 1000 lbs. here in NY you are required to have electric brakes....Here, you can go up to 5000 lbs without electric brakes - but I put them on anyway because it seemed like it would be a good idea. Added something like $400-$500 to the cost of materials, but seemed like it might keep me out of trouble.

[Teamcasa]

FWIW, I'm currently building an off-road adventure SCUBA support trailer. Such a trailer could turn any number of vehicles into useful SCUBA vehicles. Just need a tow hitch and the balls to haul it. (:

Work in progress...

Looks like a well built unit. It also looks pretty heavy for a short, single wheeled trailer. I hope you have enough tonge weight and length.

Nice project, looks like a fun project to build. (Wire or stick?)

[ohmdiver]

Well, I would definitely do some things differently, had I had it to do over again - but that's the nature of this stuff, live and learn, ya know? One thing is for sure - this sucker is built like a tank. I wanted it to be sturdy - a trailer that can go anywhere the Jeep can go - but it's a bit overbuilt. A bit bigger, a bit heavier than I would like - but I'm pretty sure it will meet its purpose just fine.

I did lots of searching before starting this project (: I got ideas from a number of places, including those down under ones. Those things are EXPENSIVE though. I figured I could build something cheaper from scratch. Now I'm not so sure. If I had it to do over again, I would have just bought one (:

Yes, of course it has electric brakes.

Here, you can go up to 5000 lbs without electric brakes - but I put them on anyway because it seemed like it would be a good idea. Added something like $400-$500 to the cost of materials, but seemed like it might keep me out of trouble.

Very Cool.....:D

[NudeDiver]

Looks like a well built unit. It also looks pretty heavy for a short, single wheeled trailer. I hope you have enough tonge weight and length.Yeah, me too. I have two features that will help me with this as needed.

a). The tongue is removable. In fact, it is removed in the pictures I posted above, so that I could fit the trailer in the garage sideways. So, if the tongue I made turns out to be too short, I can just replace it with a longer one. FWIW, the fenders are also not shown in those photos. They're done - ready to bolt on - but I don't see any point until I'm finished with everything else and ready to use the thing. I'd prefer avoiding getting them banged up until it's really necessary (:

b). The axle position is adjustable. In those pictures, it is one back from the front-most position. I can relocate it back 4 or 5 notches from there too. So, I can adjust the position based on load, balance point, desired tongue weight, or whatever.

But yeah...it's heavier than I would like it to be ):

At some point in the future, I could save maybe 200 pounds by replacing the steel 48"x18"18" toolboxes with the aluminum version. But given the cost and issues involved, I'm not likely to do that unless I really need to. I paid $1000 for the three boxes that are already on there - the aluminum ones are even more...plus, I would then have 3 steel boxes that I would take a serious loss on if I sold them.


Nice project, looks like a fun project to build. I wish it were over (:


(Wire or stick?)Wire.

[Gina/TeamKas]

Big fan of having a truck, get a 4 door that way you can store dry clothes and extra friends :0) also for go 4wd, where you want to dive may be off the beaten path. I'm a big fan of getting a liner for the bed of your truck too and I'm a Chevy girl !:D

[llqwyd]

If you are just diving by yourself (or just you and someone else) this might not apply. However, being the owner of a dive company, I have found that nothing but the biggest and baddest will do. No little dinky toy trucks. Go Big! Nissan Titan can hold up to a days worth of dives (forty tanks plus gear) and not miss a beat. Only complaint you might have is if you are too short.

;)

[ZenDiver.3D]

We have:
1. Chevy four door extended bed-Starship Enterprise. Too stupid big for words. Everything rolls
2. Jeep Cherokee- Great for 10 tanks, 4 sets of gear, 4 people and good tunes..:)
3. Jeep Wrangler- 4 to 5 tanks, 2 sets of gear, 2 people.. pro- top down baby!
4. Ford Explorer- 4door covered locking bed. Great ride holds anything.... Favorite
5. Mercedes clk 230 kompressor- Still holds 6 tanks 4 sets of gear, 4 people. Makes me look like a rock star.

So, you see, anything will do, if it gets you there. But how much do you really want to spend?
For cost and function- Ford Explorer
For sheer coolness- Benz

it should be noted that the chevy and the ford are hubby's company cars this = no cost!!
oh, and we have 5 vehicles but only 2 who can drive in the family.... dduuuuhhhhmmmm

[Dry_Diver]

I am not sure if I missed it in all the posts or if it was not mentioned. One of the factors to keep in mind is the odor of wet stagnant dive gear on a long trip. Right now I have a 4 door Toyota Tacoma. It has a 3.4L V6. Plenty of power to haul gear and pull my boat. Really good on gas too. It has a 5' bed with a cover. I really like the fact that the gear stays dry, relatively well hidden (unless you walk up and look into the tinted windows on the cap) and secure (everything in the back can be locked) and if things start to get a little stinky on the way home after stopping for dinner while the gear gets backed in the sun in back, you dont smell it like you would in an SUV where the gear is just behind the rear seat. Also another factor is that the inside of you vehicle stays dry. With a truck everything just drains out the tailgate.

Just my two cents.

[Teamcasa]

I have found that nothing but the biggest and baddest will do. No little dinky toy trucks. Go Big! Nissan Titan

Go Big and Nissan Titan should not be in the same sentence.;)

Big is nothing smaller than a crew cab dually, 4x4 diesel 3500.:crafty:

[fnfalman]

Trucks are for wusses. I'm trying to find a sidecar company that would make one big enough to hold dive gears to attach to my KTM Adventure motorcycle.:cool2:

[NudeDiver]

I am not sure if I missed it in all the posts or if it was not mentioned. One of the factors to keep in mind is the odor of wet stagnant dive gear on a long trip. That's another problem that using a trailer solves.


Also another factor is that the inside of you vehicle stays dry.That one too.

[wm4480]

i'm a big fan of my toyota 4runner v8 sport. the towing capacity is good and the stock 4 wheel drive system is unbeatable on loose florida sand. you can haul plenty of tanks and a boat on the tow hitch.