Hercules gets Aluminess Bling

If you're new to the blog and don't know the history of Hercules (yes, the van has a name. It's a judgement free zone here), you can get up to speed by reading here first. If you already follow Overland Gear Guy and follow Hercules' adventures, or if you simply want to know about Aluminess products, keep reading. :)

I first learned of Aluminess gear from friends at Sprinter to the Finish. They have lived in their van full time for some time and the accessories they use have definitely had time to be put to the test being driven back and forth across the country.

Last week I ventured to San Diego to see Aluminess for some accessories. Hercules got their front bumper, rear bumper, Deluxe Rear Storage Box, spare tire rack, modular roof rack, nerf bars, ladder. The finished look exceeded all expectations. 

Aluminess also installed 1up-USA's dual bike rack to hold Rad Power Bikes.

The folks at Aluminess really has their stuff dialed in. They staff goes out of their way to answer questions and wouldn't let me leave until everything was done right.

And of course Hercules needed some Overland Gear Guy swag. No one wants to keep trash in their van, so the Spare Tire Trash & Recovery Gear Bag is our go to. In addition to carrying trash, it's also perfect for stowing firewood, muddy recovery gear, and dirty clothes.

Originally the nerf bars were purely cosmetic. After the first week of owning the van, cosmetic turned into practical of protecting from door dings. The 2019 Sprinter 4x4 stands about 2 1/2" taller than a 2WD before any aftermarket modifications. 2 1/2" doesn't sound that much but I can attest it was a stretch (quite literally) to get in and out of the van; not anymore with nerf bars. As time goes on and I use them more and more, saying they're convenient is an understatement. 

I went back and forth wether I really wanted and would use a fixed ladder. I bit the bullet and went for it.... and so glad I did.

Well that's enough reading, I'll step back and let you drool over the Hercules/Aluminess goodness.

Without further ado, here are the "after the Aluminess touch" pictures.

Until next time, keep exploring!