CONVERTING A VAN: THE CHASSIS
It all starts with the Chassis. The manufacture offers a plethora of different packages and options for the chassis, which leads to the burning question; what chassis should I get for a van conversion?
CHASSIS OPTIONS
WHEELBASE
The wheelbase measurement outlines the horizontal distance from the front and rear axles, which ultimately dictates a longer or shorter overall van.
For the Mercedes Sprinter, wheelbase offerings are 144, 170, and 170 extended.
For the Ford Transit, wheelbase offerings are 130, 148, and 148 extended.
The Sprinter 144 and Transit 130 drive and park like a pick up truck. These are great options as a daily driver in cities. However, they are limited in living space for an interior conversion and even more so for larger families that need multiple beds and DOT seating. The Sprinter 170 and Transit 148 solve interior space restrictions and offer a much more functional floor plan for larger families, while conversely are a large vehicle to drive. The Sprinter 170 extended and Transit 148 extended offer massive possibilities for the interior and would be ideal for someone living out of their van full time, but even more so than their 170 and 148 counterparts are monsters on the road.
A 170 extended Sprinter.
2. ROOF HEIGHT
Next we move on to roof height. Roof height refers to the vertical distance from the ground to the top of the van, which in turn dictates the vertical clearance while standing inside the van.
For the Mercedes Sprinter, available roof heights are low (144 wheelbase only) and high.
A low roof Sprinter.
High roof sprinter.
For the Ford Transit, available roof heights are low, mid, and high.
High roofs are the most popular option for van conversions as they allow users to stand comfortably while inside their van.
3. TRIM
You’ve nailed down your wheelbase and roof height options; what’s next?
The Mercedes Sprinter is offered in a cargo, crew, or passenger van.
The Ford transit is also offered in a cargo, crew, or passenger van.
Cargo vans arrive at the dealer completely empty from the cab rearwards. Consider these as a “blank canvas” if you will. The most important items to note are that these vans are not equipped with any additional seating and offer the most amount of customization for a van conversion. They generally arrive without any windows, which opens your options for what window you want to utilize, and just as importantly where you want to utilize it.
Crew vans arrive at the dealership with a second row of seating, usually a few windows, possibly air conditioning, and they may or may not have some interior finishing. The additional row of seating is great for a family; however it is a bit limiting depending on your desired floor plan for your conversion. Similarly the windows and their locations have been predetermined for you, and your options have decreased significantly. Also, the air conditioning package is only operational when the van’s engine is running which is great for road trips but not ideal for camping.
A typical crew van arrangement.
Passenger vans arrive at the dealership with multiple rows of seating, usually air conditioning, and interior finishing.
A passenger van's seating and air conditioning.
Which option do you recommend, Off the Grid Vanworks?
An “empty” cargo van is ideal for completing a van conversion. It offers the most amount of customization, providing an excellent platform for tailoring a conversion specifically for your needs. Additional aftermarket seating, with additional features and functions than the seating offered by the manufacture, can be added. Vented windows varying in size and function can be utilized. A DC powered Air conditioner and lithium power system will allow the use of air conditioning whether you’re on the road, or at a campsite.