User guide "Lagunera"
Lagunera is a 1991 Volkswagen LT28, lovingly restored and handcrafted into a camper by me. The van has a retro or vintage design with beautiful shapes, making it highly photogenic both inside and out. However, it is important to note that this is an old and large van. Its driving experience and features are not like those of a modern car: it has no power steering, airbags, or driving aids. The recommended maximum speed is 100 km/h. The gears should be shifted slowly and precisely. This is not a van for those seeking speed but for those who enjoy a relaxed journey. Some experience driving this type of vehicle is recommended, but the most important thing is confidence at the wheel and several years of driving experience.
Vehicle use and driving
The van runs on diesel. The fuel cap is located on the passenger side at the rear.
To start, insert the key and turn it slightly until the dashboard lights turn on. Wait about 5 seconds, then finish turning the key to start the engine.
The lights are turned on with a button located to the left of the steering wheel.
To turn the van without much effort, the wheels should be in motion, even slightly.
Maximum speed: 100 km/h.
To engage reverse gear, push the gear lever inward and then shift it as if selecting first gear.
To engage first gear, do the same as for reverse but shift it as if selecting second. First gear is only used for starting on slopes; normally, you can start in second gear without a problem.
The handbrake is located on the left side of the driver.
The sliding and rear doors must be closed firmly with a strong push to ensure they latch properly.
Camperization use
Bed
The van has two beds.
Upper bed: Consists of three sections with three mattresses. Adjust the boards into the slots and place the mattresses on top.
Lower bed: Assembled by removing the table leg and fitting it into the slot. Then, place the backrests in the middle to form the bed.
Bedding and towels are stored in the cabinet above the driver’s cabin.
Gas kitchen
To turn on the stove, open the gas valve on the bottle by turning the wheel.
Turn the stove knob to release gas and light it with a lighter (found in the kitchen drawer).
Important: After using the stove, close the gas valve.
Cooking utensils, dishes, and cutlery are stored in the sink cabinet.
Fridge
Simply turn it on and select the temperature (7°C is sufficient).
Bathroom
The shower is turned on using the tap’s dial.
Toilet: Disposable trash bags are used, as there are no places on the island to empty traditional portable toilets.
To place the bag, pull the lever to open the waste compartment.
Insert the bag and secure it with the toilet lid.
When finished, close the bag and dispose of it in the trash.
Water Tanks
Freshwater tank (shower and sink): Provided full.
Greywater tank: Provided empty.
When the freshwater runs out, go to a service area to empty the greywater tank before refilling the fresh water. To empty the tank, look under the van on the driver’s side and you will find a valve that opens a tap. Make sure you are in a designated greywater disposal area.
To refill the freshwater tank, use a hose from a service station. The water inlet is located in front of the sliding door and does not require a key (just twist the cap).
Important: If the pump stops drawing water, do not keep opening the tap, as it could burn out from running dry.
Service station locations:
El Médano: https://maps.app.goo.gl/LHFUJY2EQRrGain86
Puerto de la Cruz: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NxQNvCcrj12cXYp78
Electricity
The van has several USB and USB-C ports, located in the sink cabinet and on both sides of the bed.
It has an inverter to provide 220V. The outlets are inside the sink cabinet.
To use them, first turn on the inverter (located in the same cabinet).
Important: These outlets are only for small devices like phone or laptop chargers. Hairdryers or high-consumption devices cannot be used.
When finished using the inverter, turn it off to prevent the battery from draining.