1st time driving van

custardy

cootuk wrote: »

make sure you know where the fuel filler is...

great call!

custardy

mgdavid wrote: »

this thread was going just fine until you came along

bigjl wrote: »

If it is a Luton or any van with a large rear overhang the back end will come out when turning sharply at low speed

And watch for cyclists entering you blindspots, the only way to be sure is continued mirror checks. Particularly at low speeds and when stationary at traffic lights

Also be aware that as the wheelbase is likely longer thsn anything you have driven previously you have to watch your clearance when turning round sharp corners as the middle will cut in and the rear wheel needs to be watched so it doesn't clio the kerb or obstacles

Take it slow and as mentioned above live by your mirrors nothing is more important in a van than good observations.

If you are driving in a large city keep a look out for cyclists as of late they seem more and more suicidal or simply lacking in common sense.

aye,sure was

paddedjohn

Don't forget your Yorkie bar (unless you're a girl)

ericonabike

I drive a 3.5 ton motorhome and find it much more rewarding than driving a car. Your view ahead is much increased due to the higher seating position and to be honest I find the 'van very relaxing to drive. Chill and take it steady, treat your mirrors as your best friends and you'll be fine.

Captain_Flack.

AdrianC wrote: »

As I said - getting VERY dull. I'll just remind you of HC161, though.

Well stop responding and have a read of 163.;)

DKLS

Transits are easy to drive these days and are very car like, with great visibility due to being slightly higher up, just keep an eye out for wet/greasy roundabouts.

skivenov

Though to be fair, long wheel base 115hp Transits drift beautifully

paulsad

Beware of boy racers undertaking you at junctions oblivious to your blindspots.
Don't assume the fact that you are indicating means that the idiot about to undertake you knows what that means.
As said if possible and safe take the middle of the road under an arched bridge.
Know your headroom and width in feet and inches as well as metres.
Don't drive too close to the kerb if you have big mirrors.
On narrow roads keep an eye out for passing points.

dacouch

Please do not do what whoever hired the van before me which I picked up today did which is put petrol in a diesel van.

It was running really really rough

pullenuk

https://www.gov.uk/speed-limits

Please read the above site for speed limits in vans.

Also dont forget your license! Car licenses are allowed upto a max of 3.5 tons. That means the van and the weight together. So my merc is roughly 2.5tons on its own allowing me to take roughly a ton of weight. (I drive slightly different ones a day some have weight saving to allow more weight)