With the cooling system finally stabilized and the engine reliably holding its temperature, we shifted our focus from the mechanicals to the “soul” of the Vice Van. A surveillance vehicle is more than just a collection of cameras; it’s a workspace designed to tell a story through the evidence it collects.

The Evidence Board

With a little help, we completed one of the primary display boards that will live in the rear of the van. We moved away from the sterile look of a modern office and leaned into the forensic aesthetic of the era. The corkboard is now covered with newspaper clippings, maps, and photos, all secured with era-appropriate metal thumbtacks. It’s a visual anchor that immediately transports anyone who steps inside back to the peak of the van’s active service.

To supplement this, we designed several informational flyers and to display on and around the van. These act as silent docents during shows, allowing the van to tell its own story and explain its unique history even when we aren’t there to give a guided tour.

The Comms Upgrade

The “Vice” aesthetic requires a specific type of hardware. We recently expanded our onboard tech suite with a collection of vintage portable radios and repeaters obtained from a local sheriff’s office. These aren’t just props; they are the style and age of equipment that would have been utilized by law enforcement during this van’s tenure. Integrating this heavy, tactile gear reinforces the authenticity of the surveillance rack.

The Logistics: Street-Ready Preparedness

While we’ve exorcised the major ghosts in the machine, we aren’t naive about the realities of driving a 1980s vehicle that sat for over a decade. We’ve officially outfitted the van with a full “emergency” to handle the unexpected:

• Fluid Reserves: Extra oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and antifreeze.
• The Tool Chest: A dedicated set of hand tools (sockets/ratchets/wrenches/pliers/screwdrivers/strippers), extra fuses, and a multi-meter.
• Power & Recovery: Jumper cables, a portable lithium battery jump pack, and rags, jacks, tire wrenches, and spare bulbs.

The Verdict

The Vice Van is becoming a more complete “character.” By focusing on the display boards and the era-specific radios, we are narrowing the gap between a “project van” and a “time capsule.” The addition of the emergency kit means we are no longer just hoping the van makes it home—we are prepared to ensure it does.

The investigation is no longer just under the hood; it’s on the walls and in the racks.