Minivan suggestions

lbpd16 · Jun 9, 2018

I came close to buying a couple Jeep Cherokees only to find out at the last minute about a "problem" with the vehicle. I also think that during the holidays a minivan would be much better to hold parcels.I have since reevaluated and decided that a minivan would be best. I will be starting the RCA job in the next week or so. I am thinking of getting a conversion kit just to make it a little easier on me. From what I read I will have more than enough things to deal with and driving in the center is something I would like to eliminate.I have owned several Hondas over the years and they have been ultra reliable for me. With that in mind I am thinking about a used Honda Odyssey. I have found some in the lower 2k area.Anyone out there use one and or have done the RHD conversion?Thanks

Rt2mailman · Jun 9, 2018

I don't know about the Odyssey, but some vehicles have bolt in areas on the right side that can bolt in the pedals from a left hand drive on the right side. If you get that from the junk yard you'll only have to buy the steering mechanism or drive with your left hand.
The conversion kits can cost up and past $3000.
Changing the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles instead of the # recommended will be better for any route vehicle, and the Odyssey's weak link is the transmission, but lasts fine if fluid is changed more often.

blamethesub · Jun 9, 2018

I have a Honda Element that I love for this job. The only issues I had with the Odyssey are there's no AWD and it has a 6 cylinder engine. The lack of AWD may not be an issue where you live, but I insist on it where I am. The 6 cylinder may also not be an issue for you, but it will eat more fuel than a 4. You lose about 1/3 of your normal around-town gas mileage on the route due to all the stops & starts. Other than that, Hondas are mostly bullet proof.

lbpd16 · Jun 10, 2018

I did a little looking for RHD kits. I saw them for the Toyota Sienna. There is a Sienna for sale for cheap close to me. But I have not seen any kits listed for the Honda Odyssey. Anyone know if they are not able to be converted?

mtyler27 · Jun 10, 2018

I have a 2001 Honda Odyssey. I love it. Granted, I haven't tried delivering curbside with yet.... I'm thinking of getting pedals. Absolutely LOVE it for package delivery and CBUs. Took the middle row seats out and have tons of room. Also removed the irritating drop down useless cup holder/tray in between the two front seats. It does use more gas than my little 2000 Honda Civic, but is much easier to load packages into and find/get them back out.

lbpd16 · Jun 11, 2018

I took a look at the 2000 Toyota Sienna today and for $1500 I can't pass it up. I also think I will try driving from the right side instead of spending $1950 for the conversion kit plus another $550 to have it installed.I hope after a couple days it will start to seem normal.

donegoingalong · Jun 23, 2018

Has anyone made a list of vehicles with steering column shifters?Vehicles with two seats up front can have whatever crap is between them unscrewed / unbolted to give better left-leg access to the pedals.My favorite delivery vehicle so far, in terms of comfort, was a 2003 Buick Century. It's reliability was crap, but gosh golly, was it comfy. It also had a surprisingly spacious trunk.