So I finally got Sentrified (second attempt) and need to add my baja van.... it's a 1976 white gmc 3500 van lifted 4x4 with roof rack, yakima roof
box, hitch carrier with toolbox/gas cans and a built in wooden cabinet inside. Windshield is in perfect condition, no tinting on the front two windows
but the rest of the windows are tinted. My question is, should I try to get it passed as is or what should I remove?Maderita - 9-17-2015 at 11:02 AM
I have a SENTRI approved 4x4 van, with passenger seating, not "camperized." There is some subjectivity on the part of the CBP officer doing the
SENTRI inspection, so you should make the conservative decision. Because campers are not allowed (too many compartments for concealment of
contraband), I suggest removing the wood cabinet. Your interior is best visible and accessible. No need to have the hitch carrier on there for the
inspection, so remove it. Btw, front license plate is required. Tioloco - 9-17-2015 at 05:09 PM
They seem to not inspect the vehicle when at the interview more times than not. Who knows?Ateo - 9-17-2015 at 06:22 PM
Hmmmmm. I don't have a van. I have a truck. They didn't hardly check anything. They walked around it and opened the hood briefly. I have a shell.
I opened the back window/door and he didn't even look in there. Good luck!Tioloco - 9-17-2015 at 08:49 PM
What was the story behind (second attempt)?Bajavanadu - 9-22-2015 at 12:36 PM
Thanks for the input.BigBearRider - 9-22-2015 at 02:08 PM
Is this an absolute requirement? What about AZ cars which usually don't have front plates?
I'm asking because I lost my CA front license plate in Baja a few weeks ago and my SENTRI application is pending.
Maderita - 9-22-2015 at 07:01 PM
Yes, an absolute requirement for Calif vehicles. The CBP at Otay Mesa seems to feel that it is their job to uphold Calif regulations. Even without
SENTRI, CBP would give me a hard time about not having a front plate. My observation: they were annoyed at having to walk to the rear of the vehicle
to look at the plate.
I have no idea about Arizona plates. If a state does not issue front plates, then I'd bring a printout of that statement to show CBP if
applying/inspecting at Otay Mesa.
