After finally deciding to purchase a Ford Transit 350 extended, the next challenge was to decide how to build it out! The Transit was an empty shell, so we had a clear sheet of paper to start with. Our biggest limitations were time, working a full-time job, and scheduling around a Canadian winter and other commitments.
Our main objective was to convert the RV that would allow us to seat and sleep two extra people. As you get older, time becomes more precious to spend with family and friends. Many of our family and friends live in the UK, so having a vehicle that would allow us to spend time and travel with them was a priority. We therefore chose the Ford Transit 350 extended as it gave us the necessary space to fit extra seats behind the driver.
Deciding which vehicle to purchase and convert came down to a number of factors. Unlike Europe, where there are multiple vehicle manufacturers who make vans, North America is really limited to the Dodge ProMaster, Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit. This also explains why in Europe you see so many more van conversions than in North America. In North America tradesmen usually have an F-150 and tow a trailer. In Europe most tradesmen are a man and a van, so there are significantly more second-hand vehicles available to purchase and convert. In comparison, the selection of RV conversion parts and services is significantly larger in Europe.
After speaking to RV conversion owners and looking at numerous videos, we decided the Ford Transit was the most practical for our needs. The main reason we chose the Transit was the extensive network of dealers they have across North America. This meant that any servicing and repairs were going to be found in pretty much every town unlike the Mercedes. Also, the Ford Transit is based upon the European model with the main changes being the 3.5L V6 EcoBoost and automatic transmission. Having previously managed a fleet of Transits in the UK, which were great vehicles, our choice became easy.
Once we had the van, the question was where do we start. Our biggest limiting factor was time. Like all other people, we looked at endless RV conversion videos on electrics, windows, plumbing, flooring etc. We took the easy option of getting a specialist RV company to do the “heavy lifting” for us. This may sound like we are doing the total RV build-out for all the bonus points. However, our choice to have someone help with putting in windows, electrics, air vents and a heater was down to a number of factors.
Firstly, we wanted to make sure that the windows don’t leak, the electrics are safe and that our vehicle is safe to live and travel in. Secondly, we needed to buy all the parts anyway so it’s only the labour costs that are extra. Therefore, rather than take a minimum of three months, we decided to just get it done.
Now we have a shell with a bench for two extra passengers and a bed that comes down from the ceiling, allowing us the space to fit two extra people to sleep in the van. All the electrics were fitted, along with a heater for cold nights in the Fall and windows and vents. The one item we purposely excluded was water. It’s heavy; if it leaks there’s a real problem, so we plan to make a more flexible system for our water and toilet needs!
After reviewing endless videos of people who had built an RV from scratch, we took away three key points. Firstly, if you can’t do it, get someone who can. Secondly, don’t make it too elaborate or spend too much money on unnecessary items, and finally and most importantly, it’s just a glorified vehicle to sleep in.