The Van Cave
I love my vans, I not only collect diecast toy vans, I also build 1/24 & 1/25 scale plastic vans, and on top of that I build real 1:1 scale custom vans.
Scale model vans
One of my oldest hobbies - plastic scale model vans (1/24, 1/25 scale kitsets).
I have been building plastic scale model cars, vans and hot rod kitsets for many years (off and on).
Thanks to the internet I've been able to learn so much about model kitset building and apply these skills to my own creations.
I think every modeller has phases where they do kitsets for a while, then take a break - which can last years.
Some of these models displayed here are from my previous burst of modelling, before I educated myself on advanced modelling, things like opening up doors, bonnets etc, adding wiring for not only spark plug leads but hand brake cables, fuel lines, radiator over flow pipes etc.
The work bench (project vans) is the latest phase, while I don't get as much time as I'd like to play with them I plod along slowly including my new found knowledge making each one more advanced than the last.
Diecast custom vans
I only collect American and English (CF Bedford) custom vans, no transits, vws, renaults or astros.
When I say I collect vans, I mean in a budget form, I'm not a big spender and mostly take the vans out of the packets to display on my shelf. Although recently I have been keeping some in blister packs if they are not the basic type.
My main source of these custom toy vans are garage sales, swap meets and local toy shops. As New Zealand is only small compared to USA and Australia I think we have limited supply, example we can't buy Johnny Lightning or Green Light from the shops so places like ebay are the only place to buy.
I collect diecast model vans for the enjoyment factor, not the resale value so limit my spending to $5 (NZ) max a van.
Up until recently I thought all diecast toy vans were created equally, then I found out about variations within productions. Most variations are only small, like different wheels, metal or plastic base or the colour of the windows. If I find a variation (at a good price) I'll get it but don't go out of my way to find them.
Other model vans
Over the years I've aquired some interesting toy vans, from tiny plastic, rubber, remote control (A-Team) to anything in between.
I don't really have a favorite out of all these vans. Some are built better than others and some have more detail or better graphics (tampos/stickers).
Once you've finished here, check out my custom cf bedford van - Mid 8.
Please note I am NOT an online shop, I do NOT sell my models, this is just my model van collection.
VANS are vans, NOT shoes
