**John Paul, AAA Northeast’s Car Doctor Answers Your Automotive Questions**
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### Converting a RAM Van into a Camper — Power Solutions Without a Gas Generator
**Q:** I am converting a RAM van to a camper—not four-wheel drive for overlanding, just to try the Van Life. I have some appliances I want to use and will be working remotely while on the road. I don’t want, nor have room for, a gas generator, so I’m looking for another solution. I’ve checked out battery power stations but they’re beyond my budget. Any ideas?
**A:** The best approach is to add a second battery dedicated to your camper setup. Consider a deep cycle battery or a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) battery. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are ideal for this kind of application because of their longevity and efficiency, but they require dedicated chargers.
Once you have the auxiliary battery installed, you’ll need a voltage inverter to convert 12-volt DC power from the battery to 120-volt AC power for your appliances and electronics. If you’re running sensitive electronics or appliances, opt for a pure sine wave inverter rather than a modified sine wave one, since pure sine wave provides cleaner, more stable power.
Next, determine your total wattage needs. Many camper setups operate well within 1,000 to 2,000 watts.
For charging the auxiliary battery, you can rely on the vehicle’s alternator—depending on the battery type and setup—or better yet, install a rooftop solar panel paired with a charge controller to maintain and recharge the battery while parked.
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### Does My 2017 Volkswagen Passat Have a Timing Belt or Chain?
**Q:** After reading one of your previous articles, I’m curious whether my car has a timing belt or a timing chain. I drive a 2017 Volkswagen Passat SEL Premium with a 1.8-liter turbo engine. It has been a great car with 120,000 miles, and I hope to keep it for another five years. Anything else I should do to maintain it? Also, have you ever considered using an AI search tool to find your past answers?
**A:** Volkswagen has alternated between timing belts and timing chains over the years. Your 2017 Passat with the 1.8-liter turbo engine uses a timing chain. While earlier models had some issues with timing chain guides, with proper maintenance, the chain should last the life of your vehicle.
To keep your Passat running smoothly, follow the service schedule in your owner’s manual and have a trusted mechanic perform an annual checkup. This helps catch small problems before they become costly.
Regarding using an AI search tool for past answers—not yet! For now, readers can email questions to [cardoctor@aaane.com](mailto:cardoctor@aaane.com), and every query receives a personal, human response.
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### Troubleshooting a 1985 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible Running Poorly
**Q:** I just bought a 1985 Chrysler LeBaron convertible as a summer fun car, but it’s running poorly. I’m trying to find a scan tool for this engine, but all I find are OBD1-to-OBD2 adapter cables. Can I use one with an OBD2 scanner (1996–2022) on my car? My mechanic already replaced the computer, distributor cap, rotor, and spark plugs. However, it still runs poorly, has a high idle, and poor fuel mileage.
**A:** Your Chrysler’s 2.2- or 2.5-liter engine utilizes diagnostic systems that don’t require a scan tool. Instead, try cycling the ignition key ON-OFF-ON-OFF-ON within five seconds, then use the “check engine” light flashes to read the codes. The flashes correspond to trouble codes; a code ‘55’ signals the end of the code sequence. If you only get 55, there are no stored hard codes.
For the 2.6-liter Mitsubishi engine variant, an analog voltmeter and jumper wire attached to the diagnostic port can help read codes.
If vacuum leaks and the idle speed control motor aren’t the problem, check for a poor electrical ground. The main ground near the thermostat housing often corrodes or loosens over time, causing drivability problems.
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### Choosing a Large SUV for a Blended Family
**Q:** I’m looking for a big SUV for our blended family. While the Chevrolet Suburban would work, my husband thinks it’s too large. I have narrowed choices to the Nissan Armada or Toyota Sequoia. Any thoughts or other suggestions?
**A:** I would recommend the Toyota Sequoia, known for legendary reliability, solid engineering, and strong resale value.
The Nissan Armada is a good vehicle—I was impressed during my last road test—but I have reservations about Nissan as a company given their significant financial losses in 2024 and 2025, even though they are pursuing a restructuring plan.
Additionally, consider the Hyundai Palisade, which offers strong value and an excellent warranty. The Kia Carnival, though technically a minivan/MPV, provides ample space, comfortable seating, and a smooth ride—making it worth considering depending on your family’s needs.
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### Addressing Slow Tire Leaks on a Saturn SC2 Coupe
**Q:** I own a Saturn SC2 three-door coupe with only 88,000 miles. The car is parked outside under a carport at my winter home in Florida. I installed four new Cooper Cobra tires about 3,000 miles and four years ago. Upon returning this winter, three of the tires were almost flat. Two tire shops found no leaks. Could the original rims be the problem? Can I add sealant to fix the leaks?
**A:** Tire sealant can sometimes work but should be considered a last resort. It’s better to remove the tires and thoroughly clean the rims before reinstalling them. Applying a bead sealer around the tire-rim interface often fixes slow leaks caused by corrosion, especially on alloy wheels.
Corroded wheels often cause very slow leaks as the bead sealing surface deteriorates over time. Proper cleaning and sealing typically resolve these issues and prevent future flat tires.
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For any automotive questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to John Paul at [cardoctor@aaane.com](mailto:cardoctor@aaane.com). Every question receives a personal response!
https://www.boston.com/cars/how-to/2026/03/19/car-doctor-getting-a-vehicle-ready-for-van-life/