While Ford Transit camper vans lack the social media glamour of Mercedes Sprinter modifications, their appeal among the van life population has increased over the past few years. Ford Transit camper vans provide plenty of space, comfortable seats, and excellent fuel economy. They also handle exceptionally well and are less expensive than Mercedes Sprinters.
Whether you’re searching for your first transit van or an experienced van dweller considering an upgrade, this article will teach you everything there is to understand about Ford Transit camper van modification. While some people prefer to build their own Ford Transit campers, there are a few that can be purchased from dealerships and some that can be ordered as custom van adaptations. If you are looking for a Ford Transit camper van to buy or you just want to learn more about this brand and its models, you came to the right place! Let’s take a look about the Ford campers.
About the Ford Transit Van
Ford has been established in 1903 and has been at the forefront of automotive innovation for over a century. In reality, the Ford Transit is the longest cargo van on the market, predating the Ram ProMaster and Mercedes Sprinter by several generations. Ford launched the Transit, commonly called the T-Series, as a cargo van in the European market in 1965. Unfortunately, Ford did not introduce the fourth-generation Transit chassis in the United States until 2014. Consumers liked transforming Transits into RVs, and Ford took note, capitalizing on the popular trend and producing the beloved chassis for RV manufacturers.
Ford Transit Van Chassis
The Ford Transit happens to be Ford’s most renowned lightweight commercial vehicle chassis, which makes it a great chassis for motorhomes. Even with the increased weight of all the motorhome necessities, the Ford Transit camper van rides quite similarly to a cargo van. The shorter front end and familiarity in the driver’s seat, as well as the dashboard, will make driving more pleasant. These vans also have AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and side-wind stabilization and are not as high off the ground. These improvements significantly improve stability and control while keeping the ride pleasant and comfy. Transit camper vans are also exceptionally maneuverable, with a smaller turning radius.
Ford launched an all-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic overdrive transmission for the Transit van chassis in 2020, giving it a preferred camper van chassis. The Transit van also has 310 horsepower and 400 ft-lb of torque, allowing it to easily handle it all from straight plains to rocky mountains. On rough terrain, almost all RV companies manufacture their camper vans with the AWD Transit van. Ford also debuted adaptive cruise control and pre-collision assistance with automated emergency braking that year (AEB). This is useful if you are in the bush and encounter animals, or if you happen to be in a city and encounter pedestrians.
On the inside of the Transit van cab, there is an AM/FM stereo with Bluetooth and a huge digital display. The Transit also comes with FordPass Connect, an app that lets you track crucial stats on your camper van, and start and stop it remotely, in addition to a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and other features. The fact that the front passenger, as well as driver seats, swivel around for more seating space is a nice feature of camper vans, and several floorplans include retractable tables for such seats.
Ford Transit Class B Campervans
If you are lacking in special requirements for your Ford Transit camper van conversion, there are many fantastic “out of the box” Ford camper van adaptations that are ready to go. A Class B Ford Transit van conversion has the advantage of already being titled as an RV and will be simpler to fund than a tailored van conversion. When searching for a class B Ford Transit camper van, take into account the following companies.
Storyteller Overland LT Ford Transit Campervan
Storytelling Overland has added a Ford Transit camper to its classic Mercedes Sprinter van portfolio for 2022. The Ford Transit Storyteller Overland is constructed on an AWD chassis and has the same design as previous MODE vans. The reclinable Groove Lounge, kitchen unit, Murphy bed system, and HALO shower are all included. A portable toilet is also concealed within the van’s cupboards.
The van is outfitted with a powerful Volta energy storage system that comes with a touchscreen display, a 3200-watt inverter, a high-output auxiliary alternator, including 90 watts of solar. The Storyteller Overland is prepared for off-grid living, with a 21-gallon water tank and hot water for dishes and baths.
Chinook RV
Chinook RV, often known as The Sports Car of Motorhomes, mixes cutting-edge luxuries with functionality to transport you comfortably through all of your excursions. Their Bayside Class B RV is based on a Ford Transit and even comes with all-wheel drive. Their design features an open walk-through layout, allowing you to open the back doors and wander freely throughout the campervan. The luxurious bench seating converts into a wide bed for relaxing in between trips.
The RV includes a 30-gallon fresh water tank, a big 6.2-cubic-foot refrigerator, 400 amp hours of AGM batteries with a 2,000-watt inverter, and 200 watts of solar power. You’ll additionally find an air conditioner, a shower, as well as a toilet! Chinook’s Bayside RV is able to run off-grid, but it also offers shore power in case you just need to have a quick charge or choose to stay at a park with hookups.
Coachmen Beyond
Although Class C motorhomes are frequently built on Ford Transit chassis, Coachmen remains the sole major RV company that offers a Class B Ford Transit camper. The Coachmen Beyond is offered in three floorplans, all of which are based on a Ford Transit 350 HD with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine, 10-speed transmission, and remote start. Its well-campervan layout optimizes the living area while offering numerous smart storage solutions, in addition to a mobile kitchen with a fridge, microwave, plus 2-burner stove.
The back lounge area is included in the 22C configuration, and the power sofa changes to a comfy bed with the stroke of a button. This Ford Transit camper also includes a handy master control panel that lets you monitor lights, temperature, as well as other settings through the touchscreen or your smartphone. Its fully enclosed bathroom, 24″ HDTV, and Truma Combi comfort and hot water system add to the sumptuous feel of this Ford Transit camper van, and the possibility of a sophisticated solar/battery control system that means you could stay off-grid in ultimate convenience in the Coachmen Beyond.
Pleasure-Way OnTour Ford Transit Camper
Pleasure-Ford Way’s Transit camper boasts 78″ of headroom, a big rear bed, and a van bathroom. It is based on a Ford 2500 chassis. The spacious wet bath is ideal for lengthy car trips for those who do not wish to stop at rest areas. There’s a handheld showerhead, a mirror, a rack, and a ceramic toilet with a foot flush.
The kitchen is completely equipped with an induction cooktop, refrigerator, microwave, and spacious stainless steel sink. Want to unwind after a full day of outdoor activities? A TV with a swing mount, Bose speakers, a Bluray player, and HDTV antennae are among the entertainment systems. This luxurious Ford Transit camper is definitely worth checking out; it’s offered at dealerships throughout the United States.
Thor Motor Coach
The “Sanctuary” from Thor Motor Coach is indeed a class B Ford Transit camper van that is offered at different dealerships all across the country. It was designed for true elegance as well as practicality, and it includes all of the comforts you’d expect in a camper van, such as windows everywhere, an awning outside, and even mosquito screens on the rear doors as well as sliding door openings.
This camper van is equipped with a large water tank, a grey water storage tank for your shower, and a black tank for the toilet, identical to a larger motor home. You’ll enjoy 400 amp hours of power storage, a 3000-watt inverter for your blender and waffle maker, as well as a solar power system linked with a high output alternator to maintain things recharged with a Re(Li)able® Power Pack Electrical System. They provide two layouts at the same price. One plan has a permanent bed and additional garage storage space, while the other includes a dining table that flips to your bed.
Ford Transit Custom Campervan Conversion Companies
While you’re searching for choices for custom Ford Transit van conversions, these are a few of our favorite van makers who offer bespoke alternatives for practically any kind of construction you can picture.
Sportsmobile Ford Transit 4×4 Camper
Sportsmobile has been transforming vans since 1961, so they definitely know that they’re doing something right. Sportsmobile provides an extensive selection of tried-and-tested characteristics for their modifications, and if you’re searching for an amazing Ford Transit camper, they’ve ended up getting you covered.
For a Ford Transit camper conversion, Sportsmobile offers dozens of configurations with a wide range of choices for seats, beds, windows, and kitchen layouts. Additionally, you can select from a variety of plumbing, heating, and electronic wiring to turn your Ford Transit camper into the perfect van-life setup.
One of Sportsmobile’s other very common variations is its penthouse pop-top. For families who live in vans, this exquisitely designed pop-top offers a ton of extra space within the camper and can be set up to shelter an extra bed.
If you’d like to create your own Ford Transit camper conversion, Sportsmobile will collaborate with you. Your ideal plan shouldn’t raise any red flags because they’ve already accomplished everything, and using their online design tool to get started is simple.
Modvans Ford Transit Camper Van
The founders of Modvans, a firm based in Ventura, California, have spent years developing the design of their Ford Transit camper conversion. The CV1 is Modvans’ flagship model, a low-roof van constructed on a Ford Transit 150 chassis. This conversion provides both “upstairs” and “downstairs” sleeping choices plus a pop-top. Modvans’ Ford Transit camper conversion boasts a sleek, contemporary look geared for families and delivers a simple and elegant van life option.
The Modvans CV1 is built on a modular system that enables all cabinets, seats, and attachments to be removed, comparable to Vandoit adaptations. The stove, fridge, toilet, and LED lights are all included in this fantastic Ford Transit camper. Also, Modvans provides an array of add-ons that let you completely personalize your van. Due to all the services Modvans provides, we practically included them in our list of custom van conversion companies!
Vandoit Ford Transit Camper Conversions
Located in Blue Springs, Missouri, Vandoit excels in modifying Ford Transit RVs for those who are active and want the ability to transport a lot of goods. Prices for one of these amazing Ford Transit campers vary from $48,000 to $108,000. Vandoit provides two bundles for its Ford Transit camper, LIV and DO. The interior of the van is lined with a modular T-Track skeleton, which serves as the foundation for the conversion design and is completely customizable. Based on the location you require it, the incredibly useful kitchen pod in this Ford Transit campervan can be moved about by attaching to the T-Track. A hydraulic bed is part of the LIV package, and it may be raised to make room for another bed or to offer storage underneath.
In contrast, the DO package has a cutting-edge open concept with flexible Murphy beds that can be folded up to provide gear room and loads of attachment points for hooks, shelves, and tie-downs. For individuals who may want to bring bicycles or kayaks on their trips, this package has been developed. Vandoit has a wide range of choices, such as pop-up van showers, 44 van conversions, and solar panels, and for every van sold, a bicycle is donated to a person in need. These absolutely excellent Ford Transit campers are made by a company with integrity.
Colorado Camper Van
Colorado Camper Van produces some of the most amazing Ford Transit camper modifications you’ll ever see from their large warehouse in Loveland, Colorado, where they started out in a small garage in 2009.
The company’s “Base Camp” campervan conversion has a starting price of $13,290. This alternative acts as an insulator, flooring, walls, ceiling, LED lighting, and wiring, and therefore is perfect for individuals who do want more than enough storage for their equipment in a place that can be expanded to in the future.
The “Adventuremobile” cabin goes a step further for a more habitable Ford Transit camper conversion by including a kitchen area, slider windows, and a bench seat that can be made into a bed. Similar, but with a 4-seater eating area at the back that can be made into a comfortable bed, is the “Dine and Dash” option. Both models have ample storage space, water tanks, and dimmable LED lighting.
The “The Road West” modification is the most costly offered by Colorado Camper Vans, with prices starting at $25,625. This interior is evocative of a traditional VW camper layout, with a back rear seat that transforms to a bed and loads of storage space. The 4-season insulated pop-top feature allows this excellent Ford Transit camper van modification to securely sleep 4 people.
Converted Van Co
This company is one of the finest options you can find! Conversion Van Co. is located in Orem, Utah, and delivers unique campervan designs, as well as modular designs that are still partly configurable. For the occasional DIYer who only needs a little assistance, they also offer installation services. They started their company in 2019 and are relatively new to the world of professional van manufacturing, but they have already made a name for themselves. Lots of Ford Transits, Sprinters, and Promasters are all built by them, and they’ve got an excellent portfolio for every type of construction.
Some of the fascinating facts about Converted Van Co. would be that they offer a custom-built van conversion calculator for their flexible construction choices. You just choose your automobile make and model and navigate yourself through their numerous designs and add-ons to obtain a rough estimate of what your construction will cost. This is very much useful for those who would want to budget their money for the modification of their vans. Several flexible van constructors on the market use lower-quality materials, which might make your transformed van seem like a cheaper version of a non-modified van. Converted Van Co. takes pride in using high-quality products and goes above and above during the construction process to ensure your vehicle transformation will serve you for countless years.
TouRig
TouRig, one of the more recent entrants to the market, has been operating since 2015, but despite its youth, this camper van conversion company from Golden, Colorado, which was founded in a garage, has swiftly gained a reputation as one of the best.
Tourig will do practically everything to create the van of your fantasies in the form of a Ford Transit camper. They offer accommodation choices for up to 6 people, custom-tailored campervan beds, bespoke seating layouts, and intelligent storage solutions, featuring their exclusive ‘Airliner Storage Cabinets’.
There are numerous outside alternatives available that making a decision will be challenging. With options like thermal window tinting, roof racks, awnings, ladders, and more, Tourig seems to have everything you could possibly need for your Ford Transit camper van.
Tourig offers a really interesting online marketplace where you’re able to get all types of van life equipment and treats. They also sell pre-built vans, but if you want to be part of the action, it’s better to join their mailing list since they sell like hotcakes.
Ford Transit Camper Vans Comparison to Other Camper Van Chassis
Price
If you want to buy a new camper van, the price might range from roughly $100,000 MSRP to more than $250,000 MSRP. If you’re seeking an affordable gas campervan, the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster are excellent choices. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is more expensive than other camper vans; nonetheless, diesel camper vans are more expensive than gas camper vans.
Ford Transit Vans vs. Diesel Choices
There are advantages and disadvantages to both gas and diesel camper vans. The Ford Transit camper van is a gas fuel version such as the Ram ProMaster and is accessible in a gas or diesel choice based on the year and brand of the RV. Diesel camper vans like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, have greater fuel economy than gas camper vans. Diesel engines can also live longer if properly maintained. On the contrary, gas-engine RVs offer a cheaper initial price point. They’re generally cheaper at the pump, and there are a greater number of gasoline stations offered compared to diesel-powered vehicles. Another advantage is that engine repair and maintenance are less expensive.
Ford Transit Van Towing & Power
Both AWD and camper vans with rear-wheel drive are available on the Ford Transit. The ProMaster motorhome is front-wheel drive, as well as the Sprinter camper van, has rear-wheel drive. Numerous latest Sprinter camper vans also come with 4WD as an option. The AWD alternative in the Transit camper van is great because you aren’t required to think about when to enable the traction needed. With a car, for example, AWD and 4WD even provide wonderful management in the snow but also in heavy rain.
The Ford Transit motorhome chassis features 400 ft-lb of torque and 310 horsepower, which is greater than both the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ram ProMaster camper van chassis. This power is necessary to get your RV going and maintain it while traveling over tough terrain. This same towing capacity could indeed differ on motorhomes, even so, most of them have the capacity to quickly haul a small trailer for a motorcycle, kayak, or lightweight toys. Some motorhomes could even tow up to 5,000 lbs. for bigger machines you want to take on your trips. Camper vans also provide favorable characteristics like bike racks, gear racks on the roof, or cargo space within.
Compared to gas camper vans, diesel camper vans can tow more weight and handle rougher landscapes and mountains with ease. Although class B RVs are less capable of towing than bigger RVs, you still can haul a small trailer if your engine is strong enough. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, a diesel camper van, has a greater towing capacity but requires more maintenance over time.
Conclusion
If you require a huge room and want to reside in a van full-time with much more than one individual, a Ford Transit campervan conversion is a terrific alternative. The price will be less upfront and lower as you put miles on it for your van trips. These vans are simple to drive and dependable, which is essential for extended road trips. The Ford Transit 2019 and previous vans will not be the ideal option if your travels will often demand a 4-wheel drive. It might not be the ideal option if you require a van capable of heavy hauling.
