While blazing sunsets, towering mountains, and white beaches proclaim their majesty too loudly to be ignored, there are subtle things, no less delightful, that bring joy to those who experience them: a fresh bowl of watermelon on a hot summer day, a squirrel searching for a place to hide a nut, raindrops running down a window pane. We can find small joys everywhere, so long as we keep our eyes and hearts open.    
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Read the November issue here: <https://www.ethnospheremagazine.com/>


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November issue

In this issue, we recap our first year of the magazine, as well as look ahead at the coming year and the changes it will bring.  
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Read the issue here: https://www.ethnospheremagazine.com/

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January 2024 Issue

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Ben and Mike take us home on the wild ride known as the custom build "Poq". This van was recently delivered to Beth and Hai - you can expect to hear from them soon.  &nbsp;      
Watch video here: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uC10NKEg0X0>


A Tour of POQ in its Final Stages

This video is for ARV clients starting to think about a toilet for their custom build. Here, Mike and Janice cover the basics to help you make your decision.  
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<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfnswLfG24I>

Toilet Talk

How is all of this going to fit in a 144"?  
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At ARV, Adam is tasked with answering this question - by understanding a client's custom vision and translating it into a buildable design.  
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In this video, Adam tours the cabinet design of the in-progress POQ, a 144" build for clients seeking long-term, off-grid adventures. Their vision involves a versatile space where their composting toilet transitions into a shower stall, which transitions into a desk space. At the rear of the van, twin platform beds house large interior water tanks and creative storage space.  
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Watch the video here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBEdtdAdmpk  


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POQV Videos

Gary and Barbara are looking to chase dreams with their granddaughters. We are helping them make that happen with Dream Chaser, a B Box Sprinter design with bunk beds in the rear.  
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Watch the beginning of this exciting build here: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhw0AvW--CM>


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Dream Chaser Build Begins

The unpredictability of life can provide us with unexpected moments that transform into some of our fondest memories, from exciting discoveries on back roads to stumbling across a deer on the mountainside of Ireland. As you read this issue, think about the lovely treasures, both physical and emotional, that have surprised you and enriched your life.  
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Read the September issue here: <https://www.ethnospheremagazine.com/>

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September Issue

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Alan, we hope you enjoyed the delivery of your Travaler B Box Design. In this video, ARV Engineer Jon talks you through the various decisions that brought your vision into reality. Travaler will be a flexible travel vehicle for your bike racing business and travels across the country.  
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Watch the walkthrough here: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P-ZyMg49VU>

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Travaler

In our constant endeavor for perfection, how fortunate are we that beauty exists equally in the imperfect? The nature of life is cycles and change. In each experience, no matter the flaws or the impermanence, strive to bask in the beauty, and in each human, just as flawed and impermanent, do the same.

Read the August issue here: <https://www.ethnospheremagazine.com/>

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Ethnosphere Issue 8

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Enjoy photos from this year's ARV Fest which took place the first weekend of May! Thank you to the guests and staff from around the country who helped make it a success. We look forward to doing it all again next year!

ARV FEST 2023

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Check out Dip, one of our 170" ext Available ARVs. Dip, a 2018 with twin beds, is ready for a new home.  
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Available vans are an opportunity to experience ARV's service, community, and quality, without having to wait for a custom build. You'll have access to the road, and the adventures that await, now.  
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See our other available RVs here: <https://advanced-rv.com/available>


Dip available

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Lucky2 is a vessel of freedom for two physicians with a longing for nature who spend countless hours in the hospital. David and Gale plan to take this all-wheel drive, 144" to trailheads across our country's national parks. With seatbelts in the rear sofa bed, they'll be able to bring others along for the ride!
<https://advanced-rv.com/gallery/lucky-two>

Lucky 2

Lucky2 Delivery

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For Ray and Elinda, two geologists who plan to travel between continents, the name “Pangea” paid homage to the massive supercontinent of Earth's early geological times. Using the knowledge they gained from their previous ARV, “Bam Bam,” they came prepared with a list of necessary features, including the expandable bed/dinette and spacious under-bed garage storage. A laminate color called “Ocean,” curtains with a topographic design, and numerous other decisions made this build meaningful and fun. Happy travels to our friends Ray and Elinda.

<https://advanced-rv.com/gallery/pangea>


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Pangea Delivery

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Tuesday was delivery day for Tondo, a 170" wheelbase, extended length Sprinter with twin beds, an expandable, stone place table, and a deployable, flip up countertop. Thomas and Flora focused on a clean aesthetic and reliability when designing their build. We wish them good luck and safe travels on their new adventure. 

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Tondo Delivery

Glamazon, a 4x4 with roof rack and projection screen, was designed by a pair of adventurous west coast clients and is the subject of today's tour. Mike, take it away!  
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Standard-Length Sprinter 3500XD 4x4,
10,000 kWh lithium battery system,
40 gallon freshwater tank,
27 gallon gray tank, 18 gallon black,
projector screen entertainment and sound system,
custom roof rack,
arctic Tern windows,
integrated control touchscreen,
hydraulic Levelers,
air Suspension,  
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Watch the tour here! <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ileqHkozfLY>

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Glamazon Van Tour

Advanced RV was one of thirty-two companies to join a six-month international trial of the four-day work week last April. Over a year later, our four-day week is still going strong. Joe Toohey of Cleveland's Fox 8 News stopped by ARV to ask Mike and some of the staff how it's been going and what their takeaways are thus far. Click to watch the news report. <https://fox8.com/news/local-company-finds-success-with-shorter-workweek/>

Fox 8 News Report

Seldom while traveling does everything go perfectly smoothly, and speed bumps and obstacles along the way are unavoidable. While some are more catastrophic than others, very few are funny in the moment. They can certainly make for great stories and lots of laughter after. This issue is all about laughing at the mishaps of travel and sharing that particular kind of joy. Check it out here: <https://advanced-rv.com/ethnosphere>

Ethnosphere Issue 6

With all life comes loss, and with loss, its companion: longing. Whether it's the loss of a brother, youth and an able body, someone you never had the chance to meet, or the longing to revisit childhood or see your country restored to prosperity, these phenomena are an inescapable part of life. In this issue, we explore this aspect of humanity in hopes that, by sharing the unique ache in each of our hearts, we may find the beauty that exists within the pain, and comfort in the universality of the feeling. Click the link to read the stories <https://advanced-rv.com/ethnosphere>

Ethnosphere Issue 5

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Pre-owned unit, Cub, and its new owners have officially hit the road. Hakuna Matata!

The clients behind the MT Nest build brought some unique objectives to the table. A double articulating bed, rear bathroom, and... dog crate?  
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Join Janice, the ARV Designer who helped the clients work with their vision, as she tours the finished build and talks through the decisions made along the way. This one was a lot of fun.


MT NEST WALKTHROUGH

We've been sharing looks at Moksha, a client's recent B Box inspired by the freedom of travel. Enjoy this short edit of Moksha's features in motion - the clients' approaches to sleeping, dining, bike storage, and more.
<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_mtCbJhQtE>


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Moksha in Motion

Sleeping arrangements often drive our clients' custom builds. Today, join Rob as he tours Kinder, a custom Sprinter by ARV that employs bunk beds to tackle this important aspect of travel.  
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Kinder is an Available ARV, repurchased from its original client and upgraded by the team for a new owner.

Kinder Walkthrough

Click the link to watch the full walkthrough of custom B Box, Moksha, designed by Canadian clients traveling in all seasons. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0m6Zw_JyIHM>


Moksha Walkthrough

What sets your soul ablaze so fiercely it cannot be ignored? In this issue, we explore stories of people who pour their hearts into what they love, from a chef embarking on a new professional journey, to a photographer sharing his photos and insight, a twenty-eight year old pursuing his dream of becoming a professional football player, a gentleman from Indiana traveling the country tasting every pork tenderloin sandwich he can get his hands on, and a short story of the daughter if Icarus on her quest to reach the pegasi. We hope these stories remind you to chase your dreams, and never give up on your passions.
Click the link to read the stories <https://advanced-rv.com/ethnosphere>

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Ethnosphere Issue 4

We wish Emily Wist the best of luck as she leaves ARV to join the Cleveland Metroparks. Emily started at ARV two and a half years ago, first in B Box, then in Cabinets. She enriched each project with her attention to detail and work ethic.
With a master’s degree in sculpture from Boston University, she has found an exciting new path for her passions. Watch a video with her here: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZb_ighMqqA>


Farewell to Emily

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The team is excited to see Maverick return to ARV, ready for new owners, as part of the Available ARV Program. Maverick, conceived in 2019 alongside its wingman, "Goose," is a 144" wheelbase, 4x4 build with a platform bed, garage, and a projection screen for entertainment. We're happy to share info with anyone interested in this nimble and versatile design. 

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Tir na nÓg is the land of eternal youth, joy, and abundance in Irish mythology, and it is also the title of the third issue of ARV's magazine, *Ethnosphere*.  
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In this issue, we find magic in a couple, just a decade shy of a century, who decides to start a new adventure, in a woman returning to a special place from her grandmother’s past, in three men connected by road trips decades apart, and in a beautiful garden kept alive by the love and hardwork of volunteers, along with two short stories inspired by Irish fairy tales. We invite you to make yourself a cup of tea, sink into a comfortable couch, and settle into the magic.  
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Click the link to read the stories: https://advanced-rv.com/ethnosphere

Tir Na Nog

Ethnosphere Issue 3

A military-spec exterior + bike garage are a couple features making Moksha a pleasure to build. What would you like us to cover in a video tour?

Moksha Preview

Moksha B Box Preview

“Would you like to fly to Oklahoma City and drive a van back to Cleveland for us?” This is what Frank asked me at my desk one Monday morning in October.  A longtime client of ARV was moving from the world of Class B to Class A motorhomes and wanted to return his Oklahoma Crimson 170” Extended Sprinter van, named Mayflower II.  I responded with an immediate,  “I’ll do it,” but Frank insisted that I take a few days to think about it. Wednesday I still said, “Yes,” and shopped for a plane ticket. Friday morning I was on my way.  
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Mayflower II would be added to the ARV pre-owned units we take in to update and make available to a new owner. Mayflower I, this client’s first ARV, had a layout so spectacular, he didn't change a thing when upgrading to Mayflower II on a newer 4x4 chassis.  
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Something that I’ll never take for granted about ARV is how helpful employees are to each other.  Although I mentioned the trip to only a few coworkers,  many stopped by my desk to help me get ready.  Within 10 minutes of my initial “yes,” three different people checked that I was bringing a license plate. Another sent me along with not one, but two different screwdrivers to attach it. From there I was handed microphones, a tripod, an insurance card, contact information, and excited well wishes, which all made me feel very taken care of.  
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At the airport, I wish I had snapped a photo of the TSA worker who took an extra moment to look at my luggage containing an Ohio license plate, a vacuum-suctioned bag of bedding, and an induction saucepan.  Once I picked up the van, I skipped the photos suggested by one coworker: a “before” shot of the empty refrigerator and then an “after” shot once I had filled it up. Although the idea was funny,  I decided that the contrast between an empty refrigerator and my new supplies of minute rice, a can of beans, and a pack of La Croix would not be interesting.  
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Once I had the van, I passed up seeing the attractions of downtown Oklahoma City and headed southwest to see mountains. Why am I heading southwest, when I have a 17 hour drive ahead of me to the northeast? Traveling, to me, means figuring things out as I go. There are many people, my friends included, who prefer to plan vacations months in advance, book hotel rooms, and plan which restaurants to go to, but I prefer to leave most of that up to serendipity. I wanted to see mountains.  
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The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge was only about an hour away and fulfilled my quest for mountains and lakes, and added herds of bison and longhorn. When I arrived at the park, I decided to drive up the first mountain that appeared, Mount Scott. The road was winding and both on my ascent and descent I had two motorcyclists trailing behind me to add excitement.
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The top of Mount Scott was frigid and windy, so in an effort to warm up I put on my running shoes and jogged around just soaking it all in. Even in this weather, I wasn’t the only one up there, nor was Mayflower II the only red camper van in the lot. If I had known this was going to be such a highlight of the trip, I would have stayed for sunset and cooked dinner up there. However, I had plans to spend the night at a Harvest Hosts farm and I hit the road again, now in the direction of home to Cleveland.  
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On my first ARV trip about a month ago, I entered the world of iOverlander, the camping app, and this time, I tested out Harvest Host. I booked a stay at a sustainable farm north of Oklahoma City. I arrived around 6pm, right when the daylight was running out, so the host kindly messaged me a map of a few parking spots around the property that I could choose from. Assuming the farm would be more active in the morning, I was looking forward to being surrounded by donkeys, chickens, cows, goats and fresh bread as advertised on the profile. Though, after waking up covered in snow, the animals and I were on the same page about not wanting to step outside, so the farm stand offering seasonal produce and bread would have to do.
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I couldn’t help but think about how ideal this camp spot would be in the summertime or on a more relaxed and leisure trip. Van life in the later months of the year is tricky - still doable and pretty outstanding when you have heat - but the limited daylight means you have to really prioritize where you want to be and when. With Harvest Host you’re expected to arrive at the farm or winery during working hours and interact with the owners in some way whether that’s sitting down for a drink, purchasing produce or leaving a donation. I was itching for the ability to quickly stop for the night and get up first thing in the morning, so I opted into spending the next two nights at rest stops. Luckily I felt very safe and had some of the best sleep so far. I’m learning how iOverland and Harvest Host apps are unique and the value in utilizing each for different situations.  
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Back on the road for my second day of driving, I was drawn to Natural Falls State Park,  just off the highway. I brought my lunch with me and ate it at the foot of a waterfall. Although this morning I woke up to snow, now the sun was shining. The sunshine, mixed with the mist from the falls, created a rainbow and illuminated layers and layers of moss. To the right of the falls, water trickled over carpets of moss. Even though this “exit,” was just a stop sign perpendicular to the highway, this stop was a dream. 
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This 17 hour trip broken up into 3 days was pretty manageable, and went by fast as I listened to a blend of music, podcasts, and audiobooks. My next stop was Cincinnati, where I spent time with some old friends from college. Around lunch time, I parked at Alms Park and invited a few friends to hangout and cook inside the van. For dinner, I met another group of friends downtown, many whom I haven't seen for almost a year, so we caught up on each other’s new jobs and new places to live. They all wanted to see the RV and, so on the way out of town, I ended up dropping each one off at their new apartments, like a bus driver.  
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After one more sleep at a rest stop, I was home and tucking Mayflower II into its cozy spot at ARV with heat and shore power, as my coworkers were leaving at the end of the work day. As I waited for a friend to pick me up, I lounged inside the van on the comfy couch a little longer. I was glad I said yes to this adventure.  

Elise in Oklahoma

My Mayflower Voyage

Vernon Blanc at Newcoast Financial Services has been working with Advanced RV clients on their financing needs for years.  The financial climate is changing, so we asked Vernon to provide advice to our clients on how to get the best interest rate on their custom ARV motorhome.  Here are his tips: 
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• __Credit Score__ – While credit scores are important, they are not everything, and everyone seems to be very sensitive of their FICO rating. This can be somewhat misleading, since there are several different rating agencies, as well as rating models. Each lender has specific criteria that they will request from the credit reporting agencies, based on the type of financing requested. Interest rate discounts are sometimes offered if your credit score exceeds 800. 
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• __Derogatory Credit Marks__ – Things happen. And sometimes you won’t know it until you apply for a loan. It’s not the end of the world, and a good finance partner will help you navigate the terms and minimize the impact. Lenders look at your credit history as far back as 10‐15 years, so even old hiccups can still have an impact. It's best to keep an eye on your credit at least twice per year. Free credit reports can be obtained at [annualcreditreport.com](https://www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action). 
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• __Down Payment__ – RV Lenders likely require a minimum down payment that can range from 10‐20%, but a down payment of 30% can sometimes get you a rate discount. Down payments can come from cash OR Trade. This can have a big impact on your approval, or denial. 
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• __Loan Terms__ – Luxury RV financing terms are generally 10‐20 years in amortization. Your lender may offer terms for your loan as long as 20 years, but you may prefer the term to be shorter. Some lenders offer rate discounts for terms less than the maximum. 
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• __Be Prepared__ – Know your credit rating, and provide your loan officer with all the documentation they request. Limited Doc loans are coming back, but still at the discretion of the lender. Some lending institutions offer lower rates with a complete financial package as opposed to the quick application only loans. 
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• __Call Newcoast__ – Advice is free at Newcoast – Call us and we’ll answer all of your questions. Newcoast Financial Services has years of experience and dozens of funding options. Plus, they can guide you to the best rate and term to suit your needs. At Newcoast, there will always be someone to answer the phone and give you the best advice to make your RV dreams come true. 
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For More Information contact: 
Vernon Blanc 
Director of Dealer Financial Services 
vernon@newcoast.com or 727‐324‐1362 


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How To Get The Best Interest Rate When Financing Your Custom Advanced RV Motorhome  

Every motor home built by Advanced-RV is unique. A recent build, named “Nelson”, is a 4x4 Mercedes Sprinter motorhome designed by its owner to create her vision for a comfortable, mobile cedar cabin. 
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Nelson’s owner and her dog will live and travel in Nelson for months at a time. The Eastern Red Cedar interior resembles the client’s home she built for herself by herself. In Nelson, all of the solid cedar wood was sourced from local Amish communities. All of the cabinet design and fabrication, even the tongue and groove paneling, milling and finishing, was done by ARV furniture makers in our facility.
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We hope you enjoy our walkthrough video.
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Nelson Cedar Motorhome Tour

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The day has come for Mark and Anne to take delivery of Indigo, their new 4x4 ARV build. Join us for a tour of this van and interviews with the craftspeople that brought it to life.

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Indigo 4x4 Van Tour

Last week we launched the first issue of Ethnosphere, ARV's new magazine, created to share, wihtout advertisements, the stories and talents of staff, clients, and members of the larger community as they travel, dream, and hope.  
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In this first issue, entitled Novaturient, we explore new beginnings and drastic life changes in the stories of two people who united through their grief and set out on a sprawling adventure, a former homeless man/cocaine addict who turned his life around with some help, and a new employee as she starts her journey at ARV.  
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[Access the Ethnosphere Magazine here!](https://advanced-rv.com/ethnosphere)


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ETHNOSPHERE MAGAZINE

We spent two years working with Whitefeather 4x4 Conversions to upgrade two Mercedes Sprinter 3500 cutaway chassis into heavy-duty off-road machines, and today we put one to the test. Watch the video on our YouTube channel [here.](https://youtu.be/VSJWx9b4Y2I)
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You can find more info about these upgraded Sprinters at our [Available ARV page](https://advanced-rv.com/available/lifted-sprinter-chassis-with-heavy-duty-transfer-case-axle-upgrades). These chassis can be 1) claimed by a prospective client for their custom ARV build, or 2) sold as-is to a Do-it-Yourself buyer. Please share any questions and we'd be happy to answer.  
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Please call at 440-283-0405

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Heavy Duty Sprinter Put to the Test

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[In a new video on our YouTube channel](https://youtu.be/hE43PAMTz7k "Roadrunner Tour Video"), join Mitchell as he tours the 2020 ARV Roadrunner. This extended-length 4x4 with articulating beds and extra ground-clearance returned to our facility this month as part of [ARV's Pre-Owned program](https://www.advanced-rv.com/available "ARV's Available Motorhomes"). 
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Please [contact us](https://www.advanced-rv.com/contact "Contact ARV") with any questions about this build. 
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Roadrunner 4x4 Walkthrough | Pre-Owned ARV Tour

Mike has been asking us lately “How’s your life?” instead of “How are you?”. It throws you off just enough to not give a habitual response of “Good, you?”. When I responded “Really good” he seemed surprised, but then remembered that it was my turn this weekend to borrow a van.  
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I took Cub, a 2015 preowned unit we had available, built on a 170’ Extended Sprinter chassis, with 72,928 miles, and twin beds.  I invited a friend of mine from college to come along and pick the destination, which wound up being the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. She’s the kind of friend who always says yes to my strange idea of adventures, even when that means car camping in something like a rental Honda Fit. I thought it’s time we balance that out with something a little more classy. Cub was perfect.  
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Along the drive, there was a moment when I felt even more appreciative for our friendship. I realized we forgot to bring a sponge for dishes. Luckily, she was in the middle of a crocheting project (making a chalk bag for rock climbing) and whipped up a scrubber before I barely finished the thought.
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It was our first time using the app iOverlander and we had luck everywhere we went. The first night was spent at a trail head near Traverse City. We were the only ones there from the moment we parked to the very moment we drove away the next morning. We made coffee in the french press, oatmeal in the microwave, hiked right after waking up, and felt complete bliss. Any time we'd walk past the van and peek inside at the full-length mirror attached to the wardrobe we'd be recentered, in awe, and reminded of the beautiful piney landscape where we parked. The shoe storage that is accessible both inside and outside the van gave us the luxury of being the guilt-free kind of dirty when we took off our sandy hiking boots, while keeping the home clean.  
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We then made our way to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, having stopped for lunch on the way. Our view outside the van looked out at Mackinac Bridge (the hotdog restaurant, Wienerlicious, also within view). Cub’s two adjustable tables had two mounting options on both sides which let us park however was easiest. Then we were able to aim the tables at whichever window had the best view. We hiked all around Miner’s castle, visited its waterfalls, beaches, and basked in the surrounding pine trees. We wanted this to be a classy trip all around. As for groceries, we bought things like pumpkin bisque, herby salads, lemon/lavender/goat cheese pasta, and even everything for fondue. After a bit of wine one night, our attempt at fondue took a sharp turn for butter noodles.  
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The wild camping spot we had been eyeing for that night was only around 10 minutes south of Pictured Rocks. On top of any skepticism a newby glamper would have parking somewhere unfamiliar for the night, I couldn't get over how we didn't need a reservation or permit to camp. The Hiawatha National Forest dispersed camping simply limits your stay to 16 days and asks you to leave no trace. The next day we drove up to Sable Falls, saw the sand dunes, and ordered a snack from the Fired U.P. food truck.  We then made a straight shot to the Whitefish Bay campgrounds which I was told was the place to be.
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![Collage 4](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/2rVmTEy8whExbKZPuyHOq7/c39e7b066fd55845341319214321680a/Collage_4.jpg)
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At ARV, I contribute to the Quick Start Guide we provide as a resource when training on any new ARV, so everyone at work, myself included, expected that I would have no problem operating the van. I was surprised to find that there are more layers to how things work when actually operating the most advanced RV on the market. For example, draining the water tanks happens instantaneously and you don't want to leave those switched on for very long. On the other hand, heating the water or the interior space takes around 5 minutes.  Working from memory of the quick start instructions, and not having actually operated the heater before, it felt like it was not working. Add to that my feeling that hot water and heat were too good to be true (I mean, who gets to take a hot shower in the middle of the woods), I braved a cold shower while the water was still heating.  
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Luckily the third night we camped at the same campground as Fred & Michelle Ahlgren (owners of Gustav) who not only knew the ins and outs of ARV’s, but took part in designing some of the systems. They taught us things like how to use the burner, levelers, settings that help conserve power, and a deeper meaning of high idle. As you could guess, our batteries died from running too many settings too high overnight and not enabling the autogen.  Dead batteries  then prevented us from retracting our levelers so we were stuck. Fred, thankfully, helped us recharge the batteries. I view it as a successful learning experience. I have a newfound appreciation for these Quick Start Guides and all the other documented training videos ARV has produced.  
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![Collage 1](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/7nWR96uDIit0SZXE50rgXj/0dd6f84816e6a1434510dae870fb86f0/Collage_1.jpg)
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Even with these hiccups, we were able to hit the road early the next morning for our long journey home. I had work in the morning, and my friend had grad school classes, but I couldn’t leave without stopping in Sault Ste Marie first. It is where a recent favorite book of mine,  Firekeeper’s Daughter, took place. We ate at a little coffee shop that doubled as an outdoor gear store, walked along the Soo Locks, and admired the murals that were painted on the buildings and even crosswalks. It was a dreamy small town, just as I’d imagined. 
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We used our time on the road wisely by listening to meditation podcasts, discussing goals for the rest of the year, and laughing about things that happened on the trip. Once home, we moved our belongings out the same way we moved in, straight from a closet in the van to a closet in the house. While laughing about our ability to plug in a normal home vacuum, we cleaned away, emptied tanks, and scrubbed all our dishes. Dropping off Cub back at ARV made us feel really sentimental and appreciative for an opportunity like this. Thanks for a trip of a lifetime!  
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Elise

Elise Road Trip

Weekend Traveling in Cub

*The following is a reflection on ARV's 4 Day Work Week experiment from Mike Neundorfer.* 
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Work 32 hours over 4 days, yet get paid for 40 hours over 5 days and get the same or more work done! This sounds impossible but we are trying it at Advanced-RV (ARV). In addition, we are also committed to providing the same or better client attention and improved quality in 32 hour weeks as we did during 40 hour weeks.  
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About a year ago, I started reading and thinking about the possibility of organizing our work so that our staff could benefit from three day weekends every weekend. I was skeptical that a manufacturing company like ours could be successful. The more I read and learned about how we all work, I became optimistic. I quickly realized that if we can do this, the benefits to our staff will be huge!
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We found an international organization that was planning a six month trial of the 4 day week. Thirty one other companies signed up. The trial started the first of April this year. The University of Dublin and Boston University are doing staff surveys to monitor results. 
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![4 day logo](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/RWrYTAie8fu8SIxFgJR4K/0a566b0aa8ca65f706ee20fdc0a32a87/4_day_logo.png)
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In the months leading up to the start of the program, we paid  more attention to our business metrics. We refined our measures of productivity and production velocity so we would be able to monitor our progress as objectively as possible. 
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We improved the accuracy of our time reporting. We improved our productivity measures and further formalized our quality improvement processes. We created a quality scoring system. Our staff has organized their schedules to maintain client attention and service. We do not have a formal way to score client attention but do frequent face to face surveys with clients. 
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![Chris news story](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/3qKCaSQwbIINW6evaHM31m/ee533cf2c365da51d1db468b568fdd58/Chris.jpg)
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We are currently in the fourth month of the trial. We have not met our productivity targets yet but trends are in the right direction. Much of our improvement requires new tools for better documentation of our custom designs and subsequent communication to our craft blocks.  
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We are working to improve every aspect of our productivity, quality and client attention. This is exactly what most good companies do. The difference with ARV is that we will use our progress to  improve quality of life for our staff by giving them an extra paid day off per week. This may seem upside down, but we feel it is the right thing to do.  
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4 Day Work Week Experiment at ARV

“Wouldn’t it be great if someone could come up with a way to get from Cleveland to Boston in an hour and a half?” This was our son’s sarcastic jibe when Marcia told him that to visit them in Boston it would take us a day and a half each way.  
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We did want to maximize our time with him, his wife, and our two grandchildren but Marcia responded that we enjoy driving our Sprinter motorhome, are looking forward to seeing the fall leaves, and plan to hike and/or bike on our way there and back.  
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This conversation caused us to reflect on why we value our small motorhome travel together. We concluded that our motorhome travel provides us quality time together, allows us to explore the country, and lets us eat healthily from our own refrigerator.  We enjoy listening to books and music and going with the flow, not the plan.  
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![soup](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/5IJK6Tsv1wP8d5TpcyQ65Q/0b983c81314e1d439075321ea12f7430/soup.jpg)
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We left for Boston at noon on Wednesday and stopped along the interstate at a text rest area. I put our small gas grill on the picnic table and grilled steaks and potatoes. Marcia fixed a salad from the last of our garden tomatoes and peppers. We opened a bottle of red wine and relaxed, surrounded by trees in their peak colors. After dinner, we drove for another hour or so and at a rest area, slept comfortably for almost nine hours.  
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![steak](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/33Ftclj9B7rzrzLQgjqtPo/b73ab0f2b1d527b09bbff8b8028f1850/steak.jpg)
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We woke up early and drove to Stockbridge, Massachusetts, our favorite New England town.  We usually park downtown in front of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and stay the night, then in the morning sit in the rocking chairs on the porch of The Red Lion while we drink our coffee.  This morning we got wonderful croissants and cappuccinos at the French pastry shop across from The Red Lion Inn and took a hike, starting behind the church and crossing the Housatonic River. On Laura’s Tower Trail, a moderately steep one hour hike, we climbed to a fire tower where we could see the Berkshire hills in full color. We left for Boston, ate lunch in the van and had to hurry through a maze of interstates to meet the grandkids when they got out of school.  
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![church](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/6MxVjE3xPf0uPY1WQNr9E6/e33fb8a599da53a1bb58bae2b38cff0e/church.jpg)
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We had a wonderful visit with our family and stayed for four days. On the way back, we stopped for the night at the Sherwood Inn (established 1807) in Skaneateles, New York, another favorite town.  We had dinner at a table in the bar and watched the Cleveland Guardians lose to the Yankees in the playoffs. After dinner, we retired to our motorhome parked in the back corner of the lot. In the morning, we left for home and made it back by mid day. Definitely a longer, slower trip, but much better than flying.  
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![dinner](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/5NK9D0PKTSOeySiS4Ufakz/b9f9bb6eadad4f57655cced9476d4f2c/dinner.jpg)
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Boston

Fall 2022 Trip to Boston in Freebird

Last month our good friends James and Stef at [The Fit RV](https://www.thefitrv.com) stopped by our home in Cleveland to catch up and see the latest at the facility. We appreciate their curiosity and desire to talk about everything from battery technology to travel philosophy.
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They just published a video of their tour; check it out here!

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Fit RV Visits ARV for a Tour

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We have two Sprinter chassis, upgraded by Whitefeather 4x4 Conversions in California. They are upgraded with Ford F350 and other custom parts to offer substantial off-road capabilities, including lifted ground clearance, 4x4 capacity, low range capability, locking differential, anti-slip, and more. 
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One is a 144" wheelbase single rear wheel chassis, and the other is 170" wheelbase dual rear wheel. These chassis can be 1) claimed by a prospective client for their custom ARV build, or 2) sold as-is to a Do-it-Yourself buyer. Please share any questions and we'd be happy to answer.  
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[More info here.](https://advanced-rv.com/available/lifted-sprinter-chassis-with-heavy-duty-transfer-case-axle-upgrades)

Whitefeather 4x4 Sprinter Chassis

Lifted 4x4 Sprinter Chassis, Upgraded for Off-Road

At Advanced-RV (ARV), you are always  welcome to tour our facility, meet our team and see our motorhomes being built. We always learn from our guests. We hope that when you meet our staff and see our builds in process, you will  find answers to your travel questions. 
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At any given time at ARV, there are up to a dozen builds in progress for you to see. You might even catch a scene like I saw this morning:  a spontaneous duet played on our piano by Ben in finishing and Claudia, a client who travels full time in her ARV motorhome.
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Visitors arrive in their cars, motorhomes,  commercial planes into the Cleveland airport, or in private planes landing at one of two  private airports closeby. We are open for visits Monday through Friday from 8AM to 5PM. 
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Local hotels, or a wonderful bed and breakfast near us will welcome you. There are many restaurants, shops and unique places for you  to visit in Willoughby and the Cleveland area. While here, many guests  visit  the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and the Football Hall of Fame in Canton. The Cleveland Museum of Art  is world class, as is the Cleveland Orchestra. 
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We don’t need much notice for a visit. There are no hoops to jump through or agreements to sign  to tour our facility. We always have coffee and homemade cookies in the cookie jar. 
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We look forward to seeing you.


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Visit us in Cleveland, Ohio

__*The following is an excerpt from a post by Bernie Nagle, a partner who has worked with us on many of our process improvements. This summer, Bernie organized the donation of ARV's unused fabrics toward a good cause.*__
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Backpacks for Cleveland homeless sewn by the men at Grafton Correctional Institution ODRC facility, with materials donated by local custom RV builder, Advanced RV LLC. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to do some Continuous Improvement consulting work with Willoughby, OH custom RV builder, Advanced RV LLC. In the process of building these amazing, totally-customized RVs, ARV crafts-people sew and fabricate all the curtains, pillows, beds, shades, and even upholstery for seats. Unused fabric is saved for the RV buyer but when the buyer does not want the material it used to end up in the trash. But not anymore.
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In my Prison Ministry work with the men at Grafton I became familiar with the Sewing Training programs at Grafton Correctional and Grafton Reintegration Center. So I asked ARV owner, Mike Neundorfer, if they could save the unused material for use at the Grafton Correctional Tackers shop. Mike graciously agreed. On a visit to the Grafton Tackers shop on August 25, I dropped off the materials, and these pictures display some of the the men's handiwork.
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![Upholstery 1](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/31tsifnplykalHU3RUNSvc/4955b9128f3a056240112eece3da3c48/upholstery_1.jpeg)
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Not only do they make beautiful backpacks and blankets, but during the height of the Covid experience, they also made over 50,000 masks for the Cleveland Public School children. These men make great effort to give back and do what they can to leave the world a little warmer and brighter for having been here.
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![upholstery 3](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/2kAeKtp88sLjK2rwZ09fla/4b482e575ce18601331e08f95ea968c9/upholstery_3.jpeg)
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I have spent many hours inside the walls at Grafton and the Women's Reintegration Center in Cleveland (NERC), facilitating a program called, "Living on Purpose". With these men and women I have experienced the best of humanity, intermingled with the sorrow, the remorse and the pain. I have learned so much from the sincerity and authentic truth these men and women share in our sessions, and I am a better man for knowing them. If there is one message I would like to share with everyone, it is this:
"No one should ever be judged by the the worst thing they have ever done. You don't get to throw the rock unless you've never sinned".
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![Team and Fabric](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/1kDvOeYRWQESW2msNyrqBw/badce1ab5a57aea968d8a77a2baf5772/Team_and_Fabric.jpg)
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Leftover Fabrics Become New Backpacks for the Homeless

__The following is a summer update on the Advanced RV organization and team, from President Mike Neundorfer.__
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After ten years in business, I am pleased with what we have created at Advanced-RV, especially around our key communities of clients and staff, plus the larger community we live in.  Our clients are all curious, engaged, and successful. I love hearing their stories. Our staff is skilled, motivated and productively OCD. It is a pleasure to be part of their creativity. We are contributing to our larger community with improvements in our infrastructure, like a large passive solar energy system we installed on the roof last year. 
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![matt-solar-768x432](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/1HePBwxvKqeTWXn14eRIpl/832e61b73ea4791706f07ab1d4cb49d6/matt-solar-768x432.jpg) 
Matt and others coordinated the construction of a sustainable rooftop solar array. These panels offset our energy consumption and return any unused power back to the grid.
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![brandon-1](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/2PWpVkMH78QriW8Ebj88vy/d0ca3c2b03db1263e5aa6fadb67dfaf4/brandon-1.jpg)
Brandon’s degree in computer information systems and software development has allowed us to evolve our Configurator tool, ARV’s method of capturing the thousands of design choices involved in a custom build.
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We are moving rapidly toward all digital Solid Works drawings with design input at the appropriate time by craft and engineering experts. Myron, a former Solid Works trainer; Rob, a skilled cabinet craftsperson and designer; and Jonathan, a long time designer/engineer, are driving our digital design efforts.
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![Jonathan Flick photo](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/617uMOyTTX539Oumsa1Gt5/e54709f2356937a6a4b9fe7945b60847/jonathan-flick-1.jpeg)![Myron Hare Photo](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/3B7uVCnZCFOQOMwfYTW1OV/403633c963a8f9170605d1a3aaafe301/myron-hare.jpeg)
Myron (left) and Jon (right) are driving ARV’s engineering and drawing improvements.
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Chris P has designed and improved quality systems. Every chassis now goes through seven formal quality checks before the final inspection and the last driving checks, which include “rattle runs” and many other functional tests. Chris has also developed an objective quality scoring system that helps us track continuous quality improvement.
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![Chris-P-edit-768x432](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/2eiMFX88KnHTtpalR6ZOIE/d9a7f2cfbffdf194ab777fe4ab558719/Chris-P-edit-768x432.jpg)
Chris P, mechanical engineer and head of quality control at ARV.
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A month ago, when I asked Mike G what role he wanted in the future, he said that he wanted my job. I couldn’t be happier to hear this and already we are expanding his responsibilities.  Mike is the most knowledgeable craftsperson we have. He is a problem solver. He has empathy for staff, is curious and humble. I am excited to help Mike move into a general management role.
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![Mike-G-edit-768x432](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/6UFNLyC99i81sCkk0XpgGc/9ba0238ddcae4fb9c18bc80f2bf2e4d3/Mike-G-edit-768x432.jpg)
Mike G is familiar with every step of the custom build process, from ordering the chassis to performing the finishing touches.
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We are working well with vendors/partners to avoid serious supply chain issues. Amy, who has joined us in the purchasing role, is skilled at understanding the objectives for parts and assemblies and then finding what we need. 
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![amy-export-768x626](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/1CZUaveLfSCkboVXGt3yJU/64d1b83a331b627f55315273f3aa725d/amy-export-768x626.jpg)
Amy and others are navigating supply chain demands to ensure our clients’ builds are completed on time.
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Although Mercedes Benz continues to experience supply chain delays, our understanding of their processes and proactive ordering has prevented chassis delays for our clients. Most of our new orders will be built on the 2023 MB chassis.
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![chassis-pics-768x432](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/4MupfMtPmqJbrBPsoXsZbI/f45bff9621affdaf776be5a9c58958af/chassis-pics-768x432.jpg)
Our contacts at Mercedes keep us up to date on what’s to come. We’re excited for the 2023 Sprinter’s new engine and AWD improvements.
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In almost every one of our craft blocks, we have expanded our capabilities, through a combination of cross training, staff additions, and equipment purchases. Our metal fabrication craft block is a good example. We have recently purchased a heavy duty hydraulic brake press, shear, and welder. Koan, a recently hired design fabricator, is an experienced metal worker, who in his spare time does blacksmithing in his garage.  
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![koan-donato-metal-fab-768x302](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/5RUhudDHnjKjW0YfdchH4n/a13995f56c75c7944ec196d8a64bae84/koan-donato-metal-fab-768x302.jpg)
Donato, Koan, and ARV’s new hydraulic shear.
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I am happy to provide this ARV update, sharing progress that will improve client experience.

Summertime Update

Summer 2022 ARV Update From Mike

Why do ARV clients spec large, lithium battery systems? Our good friends and clients, Dave and Carol, owners of BB2, recently found a new reason:  to power their home in Fort Myers during Hurricane Ian.
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After days of no response to our emails asking how they were, we finally received the following email from Dave (quoted with his permission): 
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*We sheltered in place in our mobile home, it is 5 years old, a FL Hurricane Zone 5 home (rated for 175MPH winds, raised higher than neighbors, extra tie downs, impact doors &amp; windows), we were in the severe part of the hurricane for about 34 hours, without electricity (we ran power from BB2 our ARV motorhome to the house, had coffee pots, crock pot, electric fry pan, microwave, TV, radio, the ability to charge handheld electronics, refrigerator/freezer, lights, whatever else we need to use on an
individual basis). *
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*THANK YOU ARV, for a fantastic motor home, you made our hurricane experience very livable.*
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Generally, the reason clients spec large capacity lithium batteries in their ARV motor homea is to be able to travel and “camp” anywhere basically untethered. For example, Frank and Sandy recently attended a Class B rally in Massachusetts.  When other campers asked Frank why he wasn’t plugged into camp power or hooked up to water and sewer, he explained that he and Sandy like to drive in and out to explore, bicycle and do other activities without even thinking about connections. They can go for days without charging their ARV batteries and when they take excursions, their coach and chassis batteries automatically charge.
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We appreciate that there are many approaches to RV battery systems and for occasional use, mostly in campgrounds where plug-ins are available, more expensive  lithium battery systems  may not be justified.  But for those wanting or needing more travel flexibility - or for powering their homes in a hurricane - Advanced-RV continues to supply and improve high capacity, reliable battery systems.


BB2 Exterior

BB2 Powers Through Hurricane Ian

__The Advanced RV Configuration Experience__
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Custom building a motorhome from scratch is an amazing experience. We recently completed the Configuration with Advanced RV and we want to share all the details with you.
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We are Damon and Mitzi Janis. Widowed in our forties after long and successful marriages, we found the courage to love again and married. We are rebuilding a life we love.
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We love to travel and explore. We are inquisitive and love to learn. We love the open road and open spaces. We love freedom. We love beauty, peace, and quiet. We live slowly.
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We are building a motorhome with Advanced RV to intentionally share in this experience together. Assuming we both continue to live — some subtle widow humor for you 🙂 — we will experience the joys and freedoms of traveling together and exploring this beautiful land.
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For three days we worked with multiple team members at Advanced RV to define, to the smallest details, exactly how we want our motorhome to be configured and built.
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The Configuration experience was exhilarating, satisfying, and a load of fun. On day three we visited a design center to pick out fabrics — Mitzi sews and quilts and knows and loves quality fabrics. As we left the design center, she sat in the back seat and said enthusiastically, “I absolutely love these fabrics!” Like a kid in a candy shop she had to see and touch them again without delay. So she pulled the samples out of the bag, spread them on her lap, took pictures of them, and ogled over them in happiness as we drove back to the Advanced RV factory.
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![image10-768x706 (1)](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/4gUOFymY8Ozs5CBI4Ox3wS/d7e65aea27fec71e6a56aa402601b50f/image10-768x706__1_.jpg)
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__Preparing for Configuration__
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Before the Configuration process starts, there are a couple of preliminary steps. First, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis was ordered. Second, we created our wishlist. And third, we got to name our motorhome.
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__The Chassis__
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There are [several decisions](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2IhsgcT_nc&t=14s) to make on the chassis: size, color, and type. These decisions, like all the Configuration decisions, are driven by how you plan to use your motorhome.
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We plan to live in our motorhome for extended periods of time. We plan on boondocking (being off the grid) frequently and living in it through the four seasons in all weather conditions and climates.
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With that in mind, we decided on the 170 extended length Tenorite Grey 2×4. We told Mike Griffiths what we wanted and he placed the order with Mercedes, sending us the confirmation. Simple!
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__The Wishlist__
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After ordering the chassis, we fully enjoyed creating our wishlist. Advanced RV can do anything, and they encouraged us to include everything we could think of on our wishlist. We used this list as a starting point for the Configuration.
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For a couple weeks as we prepared for our trip to the factory in Ohio, we would have new ideas and we added to our list. We ended up with 34 items, including these:
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-farmhouse sink  
-quilt racks for hanging Mitzi’s beautiful quilts  
-curved overhead cabinets  
-heated floors  
-hooks for bathrobes in the bathroom  
-workspace accommodation for an iMac computer and a Bernina sewing machine  
-articulating bed and love seat combo  
-central vacuum  
-auto leveling  
-all weather capability  
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Creating the wishlist got us excited about our upcoming Configuration. It helped us visualize what we wanted, how we would use the motorhome, and gave us hours of pleasure visualizing our perfect motorhome. We felt thrilled anticipating the moment when what we envisioned in our minds will become a physical reality.
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__The Name__
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All Advanced RVs are given a name. They are called by their name through the entire Configuration and Build process. We loved naming our motorhome.
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We have eight children between us. We have experience naming a child. We might say that naming our motorhome was maybe just a little more enjoyable and less stressful… than naming our children 🙂
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We discussed lots of naming options and finally settled on the Hawaiian word Malanah.  Damon came across this word as a teenager. He always remembered the sound and feel of it.  We looked it up and discovered it meant ‘buoyant’, ’to float’ and ‘to move together, as people’. For us it represents resurfacing after the loss of our spouses. Rebuilding a life we love, together. Letting in the happiness again.
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And so with that we headed off to Willoughby Ohio to prepare for the birth of Malanah 🙂
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Stay tuned for Part 2!

ARV Configuration Experience

The Advanced RV Configuration Experience : Part 1

We sometimes have stock Mercedes Sprinter chassis, ready to be claimed by someone who desires to initiate a build with us. These brand new chassis already have a spot in our build queue, so their time-to-delivery is shorter than the normal process. The process begins with a deposit that claims the chassis and a spot in the production queue. Below is what is currently available:  
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-One two-wheel drive, 170″ standard-length Sprinter in the color __Pebble Grey__ (6 cylinder engine).  
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-One two-wheel drive, 170″ extended-length Sprinter in the color __Selenite Gray Metallic__ (4 cylinder)  
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-One two-wheel drive, 170″ standard-length Sprinter in the color __Steel Blue__ (4 cylinder) 

![4 Cylinder stock chassis](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/31ckbS6WByr1pXe6NQp139/6573738ece6e920258e041102988a72c/4_Cylinder_chassis.jpg)

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Chassis and Production Slots Open

Notice anything different around here? A special thanks to Chad and Mikey at the [Cleveland Mural Company](https://www.wepaintcleveland.com/) for their incredible work painting two murals for our new office space. [Check out this video to see how these two bigger-than-life Sprinters came to be.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrEY4f48KfU&ab_channel=AdvancedRV)

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Cleveland Murals

Where to start? My five years of living full time in Beans has been exciting, fun, and rewarding. I’ve met amazing people, made good friends and reconnected with people I’ve worked with in the past. More than the great places I’ve visited, it’s the people who make my travels all worthwhile. For those of you who have let me “driveway camp” I can’t thank you enough. Your generosity and kindness is beyond words; I have no way to reciprocate, I wish I did. Most of you have treated me to meals, some have shown me your special place (a museum, a camping spot, a hiking trail, etc). It all just proves people are incredibly diverse and kind. I have met so many good people in my travels and feel incredibly lucky to have met and know you all.
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![Adrienne-3-1024x576](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/qKGaPyDiN4rhWN6uUHbqs/8f6f0143de42f5ab97789106bcad42dd/Adrienne-3-1024x576.jpg)  
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A special thanks to Advanced RV (ARV) for their creation and support of Beans. The quality and integrity of both the van and the people who work there is above the norm. Phone calls with crazy questions have always been answered with clarity and promptly. When you own an Advanced RV, you aren’t just a customer, you are part of an extended family. The support system is well thought out. No matter if you’re on the road or at the “mother ship”, repairs are addressed quickly. The technology is well thought out and tested.  
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I’ll never forget my first contact with ARV. I sent an email to the company with a basic drawing asking if they could do the layout I wanted. Two hours later I had a response from Mike Neundorfer, the president of the company stating yes they could and connected me to Brittany Immormino who stepped me through the whole process of bringing my concept to production. Brittany, you are priceless, thank you so much for all your help, advice, and support. Mike, thank you for Advanced RV.   
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The great thing about an ARV is you can go just about anywhere. Spending weeks in the Arizona desert boondocking? No worries. The van is built for it. With the cold weather package, spending late fall in Vermont, no problem! While I have camped a lot in my life, from backpacking the Appalachian Trail to renting pop-ups and class Cs; nothing has compared to traveling in an ARV. I think the most impressive thing is the durability. Despite traveling with dogs (three dogs for two years), the floor shows no signs of wear and tear. I fully expected to need a new floor, but the recycled rubber floor looks like it did the day it was laid.   
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My plan is to continue my travels for as long as I am capable of driving. There is still so much to see and experience in this huge country of ours. I’m planning Beans and ARV will be part of that journey for the foreseeable future.  
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![Beans-Collage-1024x341 (2)](//images.ctfassets.net/7x58vhrtlx2l/2dFqTQhPRqop9aSGpLthcm/2cbaacb149ce1f3f4753f0b40e6d02c3/Beans-Collage-1024x341__2_.jpg)   
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Adrienne


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