When 77-year-old Douglas Clink grew tired of modifying classic cars, he turned his considerable skills loose on an entirely different type of vehicle: cargo vans. The latest creation from Clink—who lives in Lohman, Mo.—is the Toy Hauler, a 2000 GMC Savana cargo van altered to carry ATVs and UTVs that are too wide for a pickup truck bed. Check out the listing for the Toy Hauler ATV flatbed vehicle - opens in new window or tab. on eBay Motors.
The Toy Hauler provides additional cargo space under the bed.
A traditional toy hauler - opens in new window or tab. is a self-contained type of recreation vehicle with a ramp. Clink’s one-of-a-kind hauler is a more nimble and affordable alternative for carrying your John Deere Gator - opens in new window or tab., Kawasaki Mule - opens in new window or tab., Polaris RZR - opens in new window or tab., Honda Pioneer - opens in new window or tab. or other ATV or UTV - opens in new window or tab..
It took Clink about a month this fall to create the Toy Hauler. “I built it just for the fun of it,” Clink told eBay Motors. “This truck will handle the widest side-by-sides - opens in new window or tab..”
The sloped 123" x 78" deck is designed to carry awkward loads. There’s even some storage space beneath the deck to carry additional cargo. It’s well-suited for transporting golf carts and jumbo-sized lawn tractors, in addition to ATVs and UTVs.
This modified 1948 Buick Roadmaster is now driven from the back seat.
Clink is retired from a career in industrial engineering and property sales. As cool as the Toy Hauler is, Clink’s pride and joy is a 1948 Buick Roadmaster four-door sedan that he converted into an outrageous two-door roadster. The windshield and steering was moved back 48 inches. Get this: the car is driven from the back seat.
A Small But Powerful Hauler
The 2000 Savana is equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 engine, factory-rated at 250 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Shifting chores are handled via a four-speed automatic with overdrive. With 200,000 miles on the odometer, the stock engine runs well but has not been rebuilt. The truck’s sizable 31-gallon fuel tank should deliver plenty of range and the maximum payload capacity of 4,155 pounds allows for some seriously heavy hauling.
This is a work horse of truck—definitely not a show pony. You might consider it a work in progress, but the most difficult work has been done. The white body is presentable, albeit with its share of dings and chips. If you enjoy working with Bondo - opens in new window or tab., you’ll have a blast. (See our Guide to Paint Chip Repairs - opens in new window or tab..)
The Toy Hauler rides on stock steelies - opens in new window or tab.. A set of tasteful custom wheels would help the truck stand out with extra style. You’ll need to add your own ramps and winch. A utility rack, roof basket, and LED lighting might be a welcome addition as well.
Clink’s Creations
If you think Clink’s Toy Hauler and Roadmaster are nifty, check out his other cargo van conversions. He made a so-called Ferris Wheel Truck (which was sold to a carnival-themed restaurant in New Mexico) and a Bleacher Truck that can be used to watch or participate in parades.
The Bleacher Truck allows for mobile viewing of important events.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.