B190 handling on beaches?

Come in and introduce yourself!
Post Reply
skullcrusher
Newbie
Posts: 6
Joined: Wed Jan 11, 2012 2:51 am
B190 Year: 0
WBCCI: 0

B190 handling on beaches?

Post by skullcrusher »

Hey there everyone!
Was wondering how your b190's handled on sand? We are in the market for a b190 and would rather not throw down $7-$12k on a lift and 4x4 conversion. (Though I want to! SHE doesn't :wink:)
We have plenty of beaches up here in Alaska to go clamming/camping, etc on. Looking to go "off road" but nothing dramatic. Just don't want to get stuck in the sand or mud and hear the "I told you So!" :D Also, I was thinking about cheap alternatives, perhaps some rear lockers? Would love to hear some feedback! Thanks and Safe travels!!
User avatar
RCR
Site Admin
Posts: 27
Joined: Mon Feb 27, 2012 5:29 pm
B190 Year: 1995
WBCCI: 0
Location: Southern California

B190 handling on beaches?

Post by RCR »

I think sand driving is a really good excuse to get the 4x4 conversion (don't tell your wife I said that.)

I personally wouldn't try the stock B190 in sand unless it was wet and sufficiently hard packed...and I absolutely needed to. And I would be sure to deflate the tires considerably...and test in a area that I could escape from easily.

These vans are just so heavy and the stock tires don't do anything - they would just cut right through the sand like crazy and just spin.

But I'm thinking of the sand have here in Cali...maybe your sand is different.
1995 WHITE B190 7.5L - 108k
Banks PowerPack System installed 4/2012
Helig Swaybars installed 1/2012
User avatar
skater
Site Admin
Posts: 2570
Joined: Thu Mar 08, 2007 1:00 am
B190 Year: 1991
WBCCI: 13270
Location: Annapolis, MD

Re: B190 handling on beaches?

Post by skater »

Others have said in the past that the B190 is excellent in the snow - basically it's so heavy that traction is very good. I haven't tried it. The issue with both sand and snow is that if you get it stuck, you're REALLY stuck.
1991 Airstream B190 - bought, 2005; sold, 2011; bought 2017
1995 Airstream Excella 30' trailer

WBCCI #13270, Washington, DC Unit
farnorth
Newbie
Posts: 8
Joined: Thu Jun 20, 2013 5:19 pm
B190 Year: 1993
WBCCI: 0

Re: B190 handling on beaches?

Post by farnorth »

Robert Gauden here!
I live in Soldotna ak and clam in clam gulch. I use a 87 jeep or tow a atv to the site .
do not use a heavy rig like b-190 down the beach. If U stick it the incoming tide will own it !!!
Post Reply