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Category Archive vehicle maintenance

brake rotor

Brake Rotors and Ceramic Brake Pads

I own a 2002 Honda Odyssey. I turned it into a camper. I added a full set of front and back brake rotors and a pad kit. Since, I travel on the road to selected locations on uncertain roads. I found, I needed to replace my brakes. The van is on the heavy side. These rotors run cooler and these pads do not squeal. I needed them traveling down mountain roads. Check the link below for the specs for your vehicle. I highly recommend this brake kit. There is more than one seller. I bought from the first link. Sometimes they sell out.

Why Ceramic brakes pads may be a better option. You can choose organic, ceramic or metallic brakes. Organic brakes are a low-cost option. If you do not drive much, you may choose organic brakes pads. Ceramic brake pads are more reliable in a wider range of temperatures and driving conditions. They are very quiet. Wear & Tear on Brake System is very low. Their performance is considered better than organic pads. If you travel or do a lot of commuting. This is your pick. Lastly, if you are racing, then metallic is your choice. Metallic brake pads are noisy and offer high performance. You may even consider semi metallic, still a little noise.

Vibration When Braking

While I never experienced shaking or vibration when braking. This issue can be the result of warped rotors. Some Honda Odyssey owners have reported this issue. I upgraded to a full set of slotted brake rotors and ceramic brake pads for my Odyssey. Since I use my Honda Odyssey as a camper, I carry extra weight. These brakes make all the difference. One of the best upgrades I did. I have not experienced any squealing when I drive or brake.

Power Sport Cross Drilled Slotted Brake Rotors and Ceramic Brake Pads Kit -80540 [Front & Rear]

Brake Rotors
https://www.vantasticodyssey.com/staging/3055/adding-transmission-fluid-to-a-honda-odyssey/
Adding Transmission Fluid to a Honda Odyssey

https://honda-tech.com/forums/honda-crx-ef-civic-1988-1991-3/steering-wheel-shaking-lot-when-braking-high-speeds-2733379/

Shop Tires, Auto Services, and Wheels Online | Big O Tires

snow chain

Do you have snow tire chains because the roads are icy

The recent storm brought in more snow and another is on the way. Be save and make sure you have chains. The roads are very slick with ice. If you are a traveler or on the road, it may be a good idea to carry tire chains even on a clear day.  If you run into a check point. You may be asked to turn around of fined if driving without chains on certain mountain roads.

This video is just an example of what can happen if not prepared. 

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Pick your chains: link below

@vantasticodyssey.com

Cajon Pass exit 138 to Crestline #snow #vantasticodyssey #van

♬ OBLIVION by HATSUNE MIKU – 🌙✨💙

How to RV in the winter without freezing to death (msn.com)

  • Hilipert KF94 Mask
    Hilipert KF94 Fish Type Face Mask Questions? Is your mask comfortable? Do you have an upgraded mask? Staying safe is an issue we all face. I came across this mask by accident. I didn’t even know its worth. I just knew, it was more comfortable than my former masks. It turns out the Hilipert KF94… Read more: Hilipert KF94 Mask
  • Lithium Battery price drop
    Lithium Battery price drop.  I have added another link for the next seller until this item is restocked, This seller is AMAZON’s choice with 5 year warranty. Link at bottom of page I keep seeing prices drop for lithium batteries. This is a new low price for a LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery at 100-amp hours with… Read more: Lithium Battery price drop
  • Portable Gas Generator BAN
    Portable Gas Generator Ban has passed in California. Will it be illegal to run your portable generator at a campsite? Will you be able to own a portable generator at your place of residence?  The California Air Resource Board (CARB) was considering a regulation to ban small off-road engines, which included portable gas generators used… Read more: Portable Gas Generator BAN
  • Harmony Borax Works
    The Harmony Borax Works Interpretive Trail is located in Death Valley.  At its full operation three tons of borax was produced per day.  The Harmony Borax works employed 40 men.  To transfer all this borax required a 20-mule team.  The operation became famous because of the large mule teams and double wagons.
  • Furnace Creek Visitor Center
    Furnace Creek Visitor Center features small museum and small bookstore.  You can speak to rangers, pay park fees, or buy a yearly national park pass.  Some exhibits include short films about Death Valley.  There is a large 3D display map showing where all the popular sites and attractions are located.  You can verify weather conditions… Read more: Furnace Creek Visitor Center
message to travelers

VanLife message to all

Every Vanner should get their cameras out and video tape every part of their van. Video record the engine and upload the video so you have a dated video.  Just keep it private.  You should have a mechanic before you break down.  Buy a manual and read it, you have time.  These are must do’s.  You will need a small savings incase of breakdowns.  Best Wishes from Vantastic Odyssey.

Every should know how to check their oil and water,  and know how to change a flat tire.  

Here are some examples of manuals you may need.

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removing third row seat honda odyssey

Honda Odyssey Third Row Seat Removal

Removing the third row seat from a second generation 2002 Honda Odyssey.  The hex socket you will need is listed below. There are 2 sizes. M12 or M14. This video shows where and how to remove the hex bolt from the Honda Odyssey. One positive thing about removing the third row seat is less weight.

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Dual Battery Isolator

Prevent a Dead Battery by Installing a Dual Battery Isolator Relay

Prevent a dead Battery. Install a Dual Battery Isolator by Keyline sold at Amazon.com. This is a voltage sensitive relay. It charges both starter battery and solar system batteries. Please watch my video on how to install a VSR yourself.

Dual Battery Isolator Kit – enables your accessories to run from a separate battery while the engine is not running on your vehicle while keeping your main battery charged and your vehicle always ready to go and start when you want it to. This dual battery isolator kit features 12 Volt 140 Amp Voltage Sensitive Relay Isolator and includes all the bits and pieces needed for a complete installation.

As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases