100% agree with your statement that the van drives like a totally different vehicle. We have an E350 EB with a Fiberine camper top. Before installing the grocery getter, it was always two-handed (sometimes white-knuckled) driving at 60MPH. Now, I can travel at 70 with one hand on the wheel... Lots of other handling improvements, but this is the most noteworthy.
dude, i love this format. car show hosts are always so over the top and dramatic. i love how you spent maybe 10 seconds talking about the regearing issue and then were all "after that everything was smooth sailing." subscribed!
I've got an 04 Astro AWD. Put in a 233c transfer case from a Jimmy ( the junkyard is full of them) and a floor shifter from Journey off-road for 175.00 . Now I have a real 4wd van with a 3 inch body lift from the same company. Love Love Love it!!!
Chrome from VanCity Vanlife has the Grocery Getter kit and loves it too. Really gives that necessary ground clearance and maintains vehicle stability.👍
I'm no video expert but want to encourage your creativity with this. I like the mix of context shots, action overlanding shots, landscape, and MB shots mixed into the technical van material. You're not an over-enfuser, like some people, but your excitement and dedication to what you love in life comes through in a more subtle way that I'm assuming is authentic for you. Nice work!
I did the same thing with my 2012 Ford E-350, 12-passenger shuttle bus. Added the six inch Weldtech lift. I'm converting it into an RV but I wanted the clearance for the gray water tank and the frame mounted rear AC compressor/condenser. I added some Falken off road tires including the dually wheels. It looks really wicked. The bus manufacturer is Turtle Top so the shuttle lines are very curved and smooth. With custom welded off road bumpers and my custom spare mount on the rear bumper and a cool looking desert tan and black paint job and all chrome removed it just looks the part. It's now known as the apocalypse vehicle by the shop I took it to get my drive line balanced. Overall, it's a great lift kit. I did go with the Eaton 8000 lb rear springs in order to carry the weight of 75 gallons of fresh water, 400 lbs of lithium phospate batteries and another 150 lbs of fuel with the 55 gallon fuel tank I just got for it.
Van looks great! In regards to your comment at the end of the video, I struggled a lot with staying present while making videos. I've been taking a hiatus from filming because of it. Its a tough one but I'm sure you'll figure out a good balance.
I used to motovlog my rides (motorcycle) but gave it up as producing videos take up a lot of time and the main reason was that it was taking away the enjoyment and being present while riding.
I have a Baja Grocery Getter on KING suspension. Ford WESTY poptop e150 with ARB rear lockers and onboard air. It is for sale. See craigslist San Diego! Such a rad van! Nice work on yours!
Got the slider that I rarely see. I mostly see them with the 2 outwardly opening doors which is what my '04 white E-150 cargo van has. Just dropped a set of 3:73 gears in 8.8 rear end it has. It came with a 3:55 ratio axle so it wasn't a huge jump but definitely noticeable. I didn't want to negativity effect its highway manors which I can barely even tell the difference when driving on the freeway. And fortunately it has a Jet power programmer that allows you to recalibrate the speedometer if you change the gear ratio or wheel and tire size so your speedo won't be off. Your van turned out great though. It looks awesome.
Glad you shared your dream build with us. My dream is a way crazier and will cost some $$$. Take an E350 cut-away source and an Econoline chassis to be shortened to a Crew Cab. Source an F Series long bed (8-foot). An E-350 pickup truck.
This is exactly what I want to do with my van. I didn't want to go through all the trouble of installing 4 wheel drive and THIS will do the trick! You have a great channel going here! Thanks for going to the trouble of making these videos! You're a few steps ahead of me which is good for me because I get all the info and get to see how bad ass the van looks and mine will look hopefully sooner than later. It all costs so much money but I don't have to tell you that. I appreciate you! You're the guy my wife was telling me about when you got the hi-top. I can't wait! I actually already put a 900 watt solar rack on top but that can be raised when the time comes. I put my fantastic fan in one of the back windows and an air conditioner in the other. It turned out great! We want comfort. Some people might think it looks strange but we're happy with it.
This is wicked awesome. What an awesome group of friends you have. I followed each of you individually before I started realizing that you are all friends!
Badass E-250! Love the stance on it. I recently just picked up 2012 E350 and installed a Action Van Suspension 5in lift. Looking forward to more of your videos.
I know it's hard to film while working on a project, but you're off to a good start. Your framing and editing is great. I would like more shots of exactly what the problems were (what specifically was going on with the pinion bearing in the Dana 60?) and exactly what was done to fix them, along with corresponding dialogue. I'm probably in the minority here, but given the scope of this particular project, I think something like a 20-25 minute video would be appropriate to show (in detail) what you did. Keep making videos; you've got a good eye, which is a great foundational skill to have when creating content on TH-cam.
Any chance you’ll do a video of the van off-road and test it to failure(getting stuck) in multiple situations? This is the biggest challenge with these van builds is no one really knows what the limitation is with a 2wd lifted and locked van. It would help a lot of people determine if it will work for their needs.
mud, snow, sand, or steep gravel/slick rock is where 2wd vans'll stop. You can avoid the a lot of the scenarios, as it's for camping not rock crawling. But the mud/snow is the scenario where 2wd just doesn't cut it for me, as that often pops up on camping trips (especially if you're camping year round)
I know it's really not all that comparable but I used to have a ATV that was just a 2 wheel instead of 4 wheel but I put so e really nasty rear tires on it would keep up pretty good with the 4 wheel atv's in snow and mud. Like I said I know it's not apples to apples but it's food for thought.
I'm a fan of 4wd Ford F250 short WB vans. Yours looks good after all the mods. Shy of having 4wd on it perhaps you're already thinking winch(s). We're it me I'd back myself up with a 12klb front winch & a 5-6klb rear winch. Both with synthetic cable & donut snatch blocks. Unless you're out in the salt flats, this combo with your current mods could help you recover yourself anywhere else.
The biggest advantage to 4WD over 2WD with a locker is in off camber situations on slick ground. With a normal(open diff) 4x4 you've got one tire on each end trying to move the vehicle forward while the other two provide some lateral traction. If one tire on a locked axle spins faster than the vehicle is moving, they opposite tire does as well. Just like drifting or doing donuts, if both tires are spinning faster than the vehicle is moving you have little lateral traction. I also don't mean anything extreme when I say "off camber". Snow covered or icy roads with a prominent crown can easily cause the back end of a vehicle with a limited slip/locker to drift towards the curb. This is why I'm a big proponent of selectable lockers even on 4x4's. It's not at all hard to find videos right here on YT of locker equipped 4x4's sliding sideways on hills covered in snow or mud.
I changed the steering box in my 89 Ford E-150 and it made it steer like brand new van again. Instead of 4WD, I haul a small off road street legal motorcycle around.
My 1977 e250 is 4x4. (Not from the factory though) it’s so tall though with the lift + it has a high top lol. Almost 10feet to the top eliminating quite a few 9’ drive thrus lol
That looks great. I've worked on a quite a few 4x4 converted vans, used in open pit mines, and they seemed pretty sketchy. You'll have to let us know how it works in the wild 😜
For filming, install a couple cameras where you normally are and have them wired so a flip of the switch and you’re filming. That way you can just be driving, sitting in the bench on your front porch, sitting at your desk or frying bacon, reach over and flip the switch and just start talking….. worry about editing later when you get a chance and have down time.
I don't know what you guys talking about, "front end vibration" ?? I had a 1998 Ford E250, 3/4 ton, extended body, 2 wd, 5.4 Triton, OD Auto, had tinted headlight covers, bug shield, visor, triple rack Trac Rack system, aftermarket rims, 255/16 Goodyear AT tires, rear window louvres and a 3:23 limited slip rear axel and coil over rear shocks.....Had that thing cruising at 105 mph for 45 mins, coming home from a NASCAR race in Dover, Delaware...could drive it one fingered...put 100,000 miles on it, that was the 5th Ford Van I owned
Sorry but I just don't believe you do 105 in an econoline lol. I've owned 3 of these vans both 4x4 and 2wd, stock and lifted and there's just no way you were comfortably cruising at 105 in one. Although being a nascar fan you may just have a different idea of what's safe and whats not safe.
That looks sweet. I’ve got an E350, that I think I might sell. The thing is just unpleasant to drive. Cool to hear that a lot like this might improve that.
Sick. Love the weldtec lift. I've got one on my 2012 eseries. I've been eyeing a locker. I'd love to see you talk about why you went with the powertrax and some shots of it in action in future vids!
I chose the no slip locker because it costs like $350 and since I don’t live where it snows it just makes sense. I can’t even notice it driving around town but Offroad it’s a night and day difference! I’ll do a more in depth review on it
Curious about the prowertrax option and why you chose it. I saw your earlier reply. I myself having been going back and forth between the one you got and the arb rear air locker. Haven’t been able to really ask anyone who has used both and can tell me the differences and what would be better overall. I’m running a 2011 E250 as well. 4.6L 😢 I’m getting the same lift kit and also running 35’s. As well as, the ring and pinion 4.56. Right now, I’m leaning towards the air locker. Any insight would be greatly appreciated. I plan on running through all terrains in my rig. You can see it on my channel under van build series.
Mine has the 4.6 and it averages 16-17mpg still I love it. The arb is a better setup I just didn’t want to spend the money for it. The powertrax is a great budget option but not ideal for driving on the road if you live somewhere it snows
Nice van. Don't go on a soft beach though. My 2wd van with 6.0 diesel on 37s needed no lift. Just needed a bit of a trim job. It tracks true on the interstate also. I liked the no lift option. Just big tires.
That’s cool but not really comparable. I’m not just trying to fit big tires I want a suspension platform that works well and has an advantage. This kit more than doubles the wheel travel of your van which probably has even less than stock with the huge tires.
Loved the video! Seeing the BTS of what goes into making a vehicle customized to your needs is a blast. Looking forward to seeing the next project! Solar??
I’m currently trying to decide whether to do 4WD using UJOINT Off-road components or 2WD with a selectable rear locker using WeldTec 5” components. I’d like to hear your thought process that led to your decision.
To really get the best of a project filmed I think one needs some one filming full time. Yes, lots of editing! But, also a preview of what you want to present, like, why 4:56's, how did they change gas mileage, engine rpm. where you purchased the special weld on parts. So, it may require more than one video and be time consuming. Don't get me wrong, what you presented was very interesting and super informative and we liked it, but we have questions? Costs? that's always a question foe me. I'd love to do this type of thing but money is always forcing me to compromise. Thanks.
Those are all separate videos, watch my latest walk around video and there’s a link to the lift kit in the description (thats what was welded on the frame it’s all apart of the kit like I said)
@@brakeforsnakes excellent!!! I just recently retired July of this year and I plan on buying an F250 or 350; convert it to a camper and raise it like you did. Used to own a 96 4x4 ford f250 Diesel crew cab. I am also considering buying a van with a diesel engine. Glad I stumbled on your video. 😀
Looks great. I have a stock height E350 with stock sized all terrains and a factory limited slip. I can't imagine wanting to go anywhere crazier than where l can go with my current configuration....maybe the mall😂😂😂
I have 285 75 18s (34.83"s) on my 03 with only a 2in spacer lift in the front. After alot of cutting it only rubs when i bottom out the van while offroading hard.
@@joseruizlalo Man that's a lot of tire for only 6" of wheel travel and stock gears. These kits give the van 10" of wheel travel up front and 12" in the rear which makes a giant difference.
Brother super cool, I’d like to do the same,with Mimi van ,How do a clear a bigger tire en the rear, since the side door is so close to the stock tire? How do I install a wider tire?
@brakeforsnakes it appears to be a semifloating rear-end. I I contacted u joint about advise on a locker, but his response was that I could only use the factory limited slip in my rear-end. Because it was a c-clip rear end. It is a dana 60 373 with traction control. He suggested searching for an axle I can upgrade. Any advise? Was his info wrong? Thanks
@@MarkReising-z8d hmmm that doesn't sound like something U-Joint would say because Ox makes a 4.10 and down carrier c-clip 35 spline locker that they use on almost every build they do with that rear axle!
How was the fitment process for the 35’s? I know they mentioned it requires some trimming to fit 35’s with the 5” lift. Progressive rear springs? Or just the blocks? Didn’t catch which one you did.
All the parts are listed in the description and I installed the kit with my friend helping weld the arm hangers on. I have no idea what a shop would charge.
Jim Bob. I have a 93 E150 Club Wagon Van 5.8L. The body is in really good shape. Would you happen to know what pick up truck I can getvused,cheap,that I can have the body of my van,put on the trucks chassis.?
I don’t know the part number off hand and honestly I wouldn’t be confident it would be the right one for your van. There’s so many variations of axles in there vans you’re better off just going onto their site and finding the Powertrax No-Slip Locker that fits your exact van
I want to do the same lift for my 09 e350 extended. Can you measure front and rear wheel wells and let me know how high it sits on 35's. Thanks bro. Love the van and my Wasatch overland high top too!!
You did well. Maybe some more detail but attention spans are limited for most viewers. So good job. That's an interesting project. Head to the mountains beach where ever. Be safe My old 90 F 250 has a center point in the steering , anything else you have to drive it all the time.
I know you said you’re running 35’s but whats your wheel size, width and offset? Super curious because it looks so sick. Thanks for the vid, badass build man.
100% agree with your statement that the van drives like a totally different vehicle. We have an E350 EB with a Fiberine camper top. Before installing the grocery getter, it was always two-handed (sometimes white-knuckled) driving at 60MPH. Now, I can travel at 70 with one hand on the wheel... Lots of other handling improvements, but this is the most noteworthy.
So true!! Best upgrade possible and it’s so cool that it makes it drive better on and off road!
Try a bone stock 1990 E350 ..
Your 2103 will seem AWESOME.
@@brakeforsnakesWhat was the total cost?
@@hushai5154 all parts are listed in the description with links check them out
dude, i love this format. car show hosts are always so over the top and dramatic. i love how you spent maybe 10 seconds talking about the regearing issue and then were all "after that everything was smooth sailing." subscribed!
Appreciated!!
I've got an 04 Astro AWD. Put in a 233c transfer case from a Jimmy ( the junkyard is full of them) and a floor shifter from Journey off-road for 175.00 . Now I have a real 4wd van with a 3 inch body lift from the same company.
Love Love Love it!!!
This makes sense. You have the extra space a van provides and can get most places with that 5" lift and autolocker!
Yup!
Chrome from VanCity Vanlife has the Grocery Getter kit and loves it too. Really gives that necessary ground clearance and maintains vehicle stability.👍
I'm no video expert but want to encourage your creativity with this. I like the mix of context shots, action overlanding shots, landscape, and MB shots mixed into the technical van material. You're not an over-enfuser, like some people, but your excitement and dedication to what you love in life comes through in a more subtle way that I'm assuming is authentic for you. Nice work!
Thanks!
That van looks perfectly beefed out! 10/10
I did the same thing with my 2012 Ford E-350, 12-passenger shuttle bus. Added the six inch Weldtech lift. I'm converting it into an RV but I wanted the clearance for the gray water tank and the frame mounted rear AC compressor/condenser. I added some Falken off road tires including the dually wheels. It looks really wicked. The bus manufacturer is Turtle Top so the shuttle lines are very curved and smooth. With custom welded off road bumpers and my custom spare mount on the rear bumper and a cool looking desert tan and black paint job and all chrome removed it just looks the part. It's now known as the apocalypse vehicle by the shop I took it to get my drive line balanced. Overall, it's a great lift kit. I did go with the Eaton 8000 lb rear springs in order to carry the weight of 75 gallons of fresh water, 400 lbs of lithium phospate batteries and another 150 lbs of fuel with the 55 gallon fuel tank I just got for it.
Van looks great! In regards to your comment at the end of the video, I struggled a lot with staying present while making videos. I've been taking a hiatus from filming because of it. Its a tough one but I'm sure you'll figure out a good balance.
Yea it's been a balance already. I raced at sea otter last week and planned on filming a whole vlog but ended up not filming anything lol.
I used to motovlog my rides (motorcycle) but gave it up as producing videos take up a lot of time and the main reason was that it was taking away the enjoyment and being present while riding.
Whats up Jim Bob, almost bought one of these 2 yrs back in AZ
They’re fun vehicles for sure!
Those Panas on that 308 are the bees knees. Clean edits and sweet install. You've earned a new sub, sir
Hell yea appreciated!!
I like this video- it gets right to the point. Makes me look at vans in a whole new way
I have a Baja Grocery Getter on KING suspension. Ford WESTY poptop e150 with ARB rear lockers and onboard air. It is for sale. See craigslist San Diego! Such a rad van! Nice work on yours!
Got the slider that I rarely see. I mostly see them with the 2 outwardly opening doors which is what my '04 white E-150 cargo van has. Just dropped a set of 3:73 gears in 8.8 rear end it has. It came with a 3:55 ratio axle so it wasn't a huge jump but definitely noticeable. I didn't want to negativity effect its highway manors which I can barely even tell the difference when driving on the freeway. And fortunately it has a Jet power programmer that allows you to recalibrate the speedometer if you change the gear ratio or wheel and tire size so your speedo won't be off. Your van turned out great though. It looks awesome.
Yea I ran a 5 start tuner to adjust for the gears and tires
Glad you shared your dream build with us. My dream is a way crazier and will cost some $$$. Take an E350 cut-away source and an Econoline chassis to be shortened to a Crew Cab. Source an F Series long bed (8-foot). An E-350 pickup truck.
Check Out the 80's and 90's Ford Cabriolet Van and the Centurion. Both could even accommodate a 5th wheel!
If i had a 4x4 E series id have it on its side immediately thinking its a ranger
At least you know your limitations lol
This is exactly what I want to do with my van. I didn't want to go through all the trouble of installing 4 wheel drive and THIS will do the trick! You have a great channel going here! Thanks for going to the trouble of making these videos! You're a few steps ahead of me which is good for me because I get all the info and get to see how bad ass the van looks and mine will look hopefully sooner than later. It all costs so much money but I don't have to tell you that. I appreciate you! You're the guy my wife was telling me about when you got the hi-top. I can't wait! I actually already put a 900 watt solar rack on top but that can be raised when the time comes. I put my fantastic fan in one of the back windows and an air conditioner in the other. It turned out great! We want comfort. Some people might think it looks strange but we're happy with it.
That’s so rad and much appreciated!!
4 wheel conversions on vans are currently $12,000 - $25,000 plus the cost of a van
This is wicked awesome. What an awesome group of friends you have. I followed each of you individually before I started realizing that you are all friends!
Appreciate that and I’m very grateful to call them friends 🤘🏻
I love the "just giver heck" upgrades. Bad ass van
Congratulations Nice Van and professional job lift
Badass E-250! Love the stance on it. I recently just picked up 2012 E350 and installed a Action Van Suspension 5in lift. Looking forward to more of your videos.
That’s rad and thank you!!
Sick shirt and sick van! Love Aus-Rotten!
Hell yea you get it!!
The van simply looks badass. No complaints on the "video recording while traveling", I personally enjoyed it. Looking forward to more footage.
Appreciated!
It doesn't look. Lifted
@@davidbuckwitz5408 Well it's lifted 5" plus 35" tires so it's significantly higher than a stock van
The the IG content, beyond stoked for this. Keep doing what you do. You got an eye for it all brother.
Appreciate that!
I have an action vans lift on my 2012 e350. Haven't gotten to the rear locker yet. Great video.
Can't wait to see the rest of the van build. Your tacoma was one of my favorite builds, Cheers!
Thank you!! It’ll be a fun one for sure
I know it's hard to film while working on a project, but you're off to a good start. Your framing and editing is great. I would like more shots of exactly what the problems were (what specifically was going on with the pinion bearing in the Dana 60?) and exactly what was done to fix them, along with corresponding dialogue. I'm probably in the minority here, but given the scope of this particular project, I think something like a 20-25 minute video would be appropriate to show (in detail) what you did.
Keep making videos; you've got a good eye, which is a great foundational skill to have when creating content on TH-cam.
Yup always a tough balance between working and filming but appreciate the feedback. My latest videos have been much longer and more detailed though.
Agree 100% with comment...I would add that 75% of the edit up to 2:44 could be eliminated as it really does not add to the story or provide much value
You did an awesome job, I have a 1999 E350 7.3 Desiel Van that I'd love to do the same thing to!
You should do it!
Powertrax vs sure grip...Dana 70 ...big difference on cost I had one on my blazer 74 on 35 456 front no issues back in 90s ..now 2024 ....
Can we all just agree, that not only is the freakin cool AF but Jim Bob gets 1,000 bonus points for wearing the Dead Kennedys T-Shirt on the outro
You get it 🤘🏻
Any chance you’ll do a video of the van off-road and test it to failure(getting stuck) in multiple situations?
This is the biggest challenge with these van builds is no one really knows what the limitation is with a 2wd lifted and locked van. It would help a lot of people determine if it will work for their needs.
I do plan to yea and in the video after this on my channel I have a bit of Offroad footage as well
mud, snow, sand, or steep gravel/slick rock is where 2wd vans'll stop. You can avoid the a lot of the scenarios, as it's for camping not rock crawling.
But the mud/snow is the scenario where 2wd just doesn't cut it for me, as that often pops up on camping trips (especially if you're camping year round)
I know it's really not all that comparable but I used to have a ATV that was just a 2 wheel instead of 4 wheel but I put so e really nasty rear tires on it would keep up pretty good with the 4 wheel atv's in snow and mud. Like I said I know it's not apples to apples but it's food for thought.
I'm a fan of 4wd Ford F250 short WB vans. Yours looks good after all the mods. Shy of having 4wd on it perhaps you're already thinking winch(s).
We're it me I'd back myself up with a 12klb front winch & a 5-6klb rear winch. Both with synthetic cable & donut snatch blocks. Unless you're out in the salt flats, this combo with your current mods could help you recover yourself anywhere else.
Why not just one winch on a hitch mount? Then you can just move it around.
The biggest advantage to 4WD over 2WD with a locker is in off camber situations on slick ground. With a normal(open diff) 4x4 you've got one tire on each end trying to move the vehicle forward while the other two provide some lateral traction. If one tire on a locked axle spins faster than the vehicle is moving, they opposite tire does as well. Just like drifting or doing donuts, if both tires are spinning faster than the vehicle is moving you have little lateral traction.
I also don't mean anything extreme when I say "off camber". Snow covered or icy roads with a prominent crown can easily cause the back end of a vehicle with a limited slip/locker to drift towards the curb. This is why I'm a big proponent of selectable lockers even on 4x4's. It's not at all hard to find videos right here on YT of locker equipped 4x4's sliding sideways on hills covered in snow or mud.
Great first vid! You know the drill, content, content, content... It'll do great!
Yea now I gotta keep it going haha
I'll tell ya who needs a 4x4. Everyone who gets alotta snow.
And I mention that in the video
Keep the updates coming!
Video quality was on point
Thank you!!
I changed the steering box in my 89 Ford E-150 and it made it steer like brand new van again. Instead of 4WD, I haul a small off road street legal motorcycle around.
That’s the way to do it! I have a dirtbike I bring too
My 1977 e250 is 4x4. (Not from the factory though) it’s so tall though with the lift + it has a high top lol. Almost 10feet to the top eliminating quite a few 9’ drive thrus lol
That looks great. I've worked on a quite a few 4x4 converted vans, used in open pit mines, and they seemed pretty sketchy. You'll have to let us know how it works in the wild 😜
Check my next video on the van there’s a lot of Offroad footage
Why did they seem sketch??
Looking forward to more videos like this….thanks for sharing!
More to come!
For filming, install a couple cameras where you normally are and have them wired so a flip of the switch and you’re filming. That way you can just be driving, sitting in the bench on your front porch, sitting at your desk or frying bacon, reach over and flip the switch and just start talking….. worry about editing later when you get a chance and have down time.
I have always wanted one and stated many times to friends that it would make a great bug out van.🤠🇺🇸
They’re very versatile vehicles!
I need friends who can do stuff
Nah you need to learn to DIY.
I don't know what you guys talking about, "front end vibration" ??
I had a 1998 Ford E250, 3/4 ton, extended body, 2 wd, 5.4 Triton, OD Auto, had tinted headlight covers, bug shield, visor, triple rack Trac Rack system, aftermarket rims, 255/16 Goodyear AT tires, rear window louvres and a 3:23 limited slip rear axel and coil over rear shocks.....Had that thing cruising at 105 mph for 45 mins, coming home from a NASCAR race in Dover, Delaware...could drive it one fingered...put 100,000 miles on it, that was the 5th Ford Van I owned
Sorry but I just don't believe you do 105 in an econoline lol. I've owned 3 of these vans both 4x4 and 2wd, stock and lifted and there's just no way you were comfortably cruising at 105 in one. Although being a nascar fan you may just have a different idea of what's safe and whats not safe.
Pretty awesome for someone that ,"doesn't know", just keep doing what you"re doing.
🤘🏻
Commentary is fine with b-roll footage. Time is money and you need to make the most of it.
I love this thing. I would drive it everywhere I go!
It’s been incredible!
@@brakeforsnakes It looks incredible. Thank you for bringing us the content!
I would like to know about your tire carrier that is bolted to your bumper? Van looks awesome by the way!
It's a RIGd Supply Ultraswing!
@@brakeforsnakes Nice! Thanks for the quick reply!
Lovely van. I'm sure Tardy brothers would approve 🤘🤘🤘
Hell yea 😎
Badass! I’d love a setup like that some day
Only need a 4.30 gear for 35" tires on an E250. Just did the calculations myself for mine.
For your your van and your uses.
Nailed it Homie.
What is the fuel mileage before and after the transformation? That way I'll know what to look for when I do mine.
Hasn’t really changed still average about 15-17mpg mixed driving
That looks sweet. I’ve got an E350, that I think I might sell. The thing is just unpleasant to drive. Cool to hear that a lot like this might improve that.
Before I did this I felt the same way, their kit will completely change how it drives
Van came out fantastic!
Glad you think so!
Jimbob!!!!!😂😂😅😂😅
Sick. Love the weldtec lift. I've got one on my 2012 eseries. I've been eyeing a locker. I'd love to see you talk about why you went with the powertrax and some shots of it in action in future vids!
I chose the no slip locker because it costs like $350 and since I don’t live where it snows it just makes sense. I can’t even notice it driving around town but Offroad it’s a night and day difference! I’ll do a more in depth review on it
Curious about the prowertrax option and why you chose it.
I saw your earlier reply.
I myself having been going back and forth between the one you got and the arb rear air locker.
Haven’t been able to really ask anyone who has used both and can tell me the differences and what would be better overall.
I’m running a 2011 E250 as well. 4.6L 😢
I’m getting the same lift kit and also running 35’s. As well as, the ring and pinion 4.56.
Right now, I’m leaning towards the air locker. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
I plan on running through all terrains in my rig.
You can see it on my channel under van build series.
Mine has the 4.6 and it averages 16-17mpg still I love it. The arb is a better setup I just didn’t want to spend the money for it. The powertrax is a great budget option but not ideal for driving on the road if you live somewhere it snows
If you live in snow country Get a selectable Locker, a fixed locker in snow with 2wd is a nightmare to control and dangerous.
Well done video and enjoyable to watch. I’ll keep watchin!
👊🏻👊🏻👊🏻
Great build! I missed seeing what engine is in your van. Can you update? 😊
Watch my full walk around video on my channel it goes all into that
What type of locker is it? You mentioned the brand, but what type? Air, e-locker?
It’s a powertrax no slip mechanical locker so not air or electric
Nice van. Don't go on a soft beach though. My 2wd van with 6.0 diesel on 37s needed no lift. Just needed a bit of a trim job. It tracks true on the interstate also. I liked the no lift option. Just big tires.
That’s cool but not really comparable. I’m not just trying to fit big tires I want a suspension platform that works well and has an advantage. This kit more than doubles the wheel travel of your van which probably has even less than stock with the huge tires.
But they will both get stuck in the sand. A lift and tires in no way makes up for the lack of 4wd when you need 4wd.
Cool vid man.
That’s the game, make the hard work look east.
Thanks!!
Paint it army green with black trim. That would look great!
My company vehicle back when I worked oil fields in 2014.
Loved the video! Seeing the BTS of what goes into making a vehicle customized to your needs is a blast. Looking forward to seeing the next project! Solar??
Thank you dude and yup Solar plus a high roof conversion!
I’m currently trying to decide whether to do 4WD using UJOINT Off-road components or 2WD with a selectable rear locker using WeldTec 5” components. I’d like to hear your thought process that led to your decision.
Living in Canada, snow is my main use for 4x4. Lift, locker and tires will make your van like 90% capable for most conditions, except ice/snow/mud
Judging by your shirts, the playlist on your trips is badass.
You know it 🤘🏻
You should get the smoke headlights makes a big difference on this black front vans
I’ve already updated the headlights you can see them in my last van update video
To really get the best of a project filmed I think one needs some one filming full time. Yes, lots of editing! But, also a preview of what you want to present, like, why 4:56's, how did they change gas mileage, engine rpm. where you purchased the special weld on parts. So, it may require more than one video and be time consuming. Don't get me wrong, what you presented was very interesting and super informative and we liked it, but we have questions? Costs? that's always a question foe me. I'd love to do this type of thing but money is always forcing me to compromise. Thanks.
Those are all separate videos, watch my latest walk around video and there’s a link to the lift kit in the description (thats what was welded on the frame it’s all apart of the kit like I said)
Nice.......... did installing the bigger wheels throw off the speedometer.?
Yup you need to install an SCT tuner to fix that
@@brakeforsnakes excellent!!! I just recently retired July of this year and I plan on buying an F250 or 350; convert it to a camper and raise it like you did. Used to own a 96 4x4 ford f250 Diesel crew cab. I am also considering buying a van with a diesel engine. Glad I stumbled on your video. 😀
I have a '10 e-250......you have INSPIRED ME!!!
It’s a RIGd Supply UltraSwing!
Looks great.
I have a stock height E350 with stock sized all terrains and a factory limited slip. I can't imagine wanting to go anywhere crazier than where l can go with my current configuration....maybe the mall😂😂😂
Sounds like your van isn’t set up very well
@@brakeforsnakes for the mall?
Nice Work!
Extra finished pics woulda been cool👌
There’s a ton on my Instagram but I’m waiting to do a full finished walk around video till it’s a bit more finished
Love it. I'm curious whether the 3" kit would've still fit the 35s or not.
You know I’m not sure but you could reach out to weldtech they’re very helpful!
I have 285 75 18s (34.83"s) on my 03 with only a 2in spacer lift in the front. After alot of cutting it only rubs when i bottom out the van while offroading hard.
@@joseruizlalo Man that's a lot of tire for only 6" of wheel travel and stock gears. These kits give the van 10" of wheel travel up front and 12" in the rear which makes a giant difference.
Brother super cool, I’d like to do the same,with Mimi van ,How do a clear a bigger tire en the rear, since the side door is so close to the stock tire? How do I install a wider tire?
Buy a door extension from weldtec
I have a 98 f 350 diesel dualie 14box trk.
Would love to have a van like that.
Slider door hit the rear wheel? I been looking and thinking of getting the doors instead of the slider because of this.
I have an extension for it
Great video. I have questions.... what rear axle do you have. And what was the locker you put I. It?
It’s a Dana 60 and a power trax locker. If you look at my latest van walk around video I have a link to it
@brakeforsnakes it appears to be a semifloating rear-end. I I contacted u joint about advise on a locker, but his response was that I could only use the factory limited slip in my rear-end. Because it was a c-clip rear end. It is a dana 60 373 with traction control. He suggested searching for an axle I can upgrade. Any advise? Was his info wrong? Thanks
@@MarkReising-z8d hmmm that doesn't sound like something U-Joint would say because Ox makes a 4.10 and down carrier c-clip 35 spline locker that they use on almost every build they do with that rear axle!
May I ask, where'd you get your lightbar? Is there a link for it?
It’s a Baja designs ONX6+
How was the fitment process for the 35’s? I know they mentioned it requires some trimming to fit 35’s with the 5” lift. Progressive rear springs? Or just the blocks? Didn’t catch which one you did.
Fitment is easy just weld the brackets according to weldtechs specifications and do some minor fender trimming. I did the progressive leafs
@@brakeforsnakes 🤙. Awesome. Any rubbing issues off-road?
Nope we clearanced the front just a bit and it's cherry
Cool van, dude! I have an E-250 that I have been contemplating doing this to. Gonna check out the links, right now.
You won't regret it trust me
@@brakeforsnakes I’m also considering swapping the 5.4 for a 7.3 Godzilla. This will be a beast
@@joeymccullough2716 Now we're talkin!
@@brakeforsnakes it’s been my work van for years-now, it’s gonna be my toy
@@joeymccullough2716 awesome that's the way to do it
Hey man where did you find the caster bushing you mentioned. My E350 handles awful and I wonder if thats part of it?
You can get them at any parts store
Very nice upgrade. What do the kit/parts cost for this job? What about the labor (I realize he was a buddy). Thank you
All the parts are listed in the description and I installed the kit with my friend helping weld the arm hangers on. I have no idea what a shop would charge.
Great video. I could NOT work like that though … prolly cause I am old, but I cannot have anyone else around when wrenching. Distracts me
You can do it!
Very cool. Always wanted a 4x4 van. Don't know why, just dig the style.
This is 2wd!
What are the wheel specs? Offset , width etc. Also did you use spacers on the rear wheels?
They were 0 offset 17x9 and I did have spacers
Jim Bob. I have a 93 E150 Club Wagon Van 5.8L. The body is in really good shape. Would you happen to know what pick up truck I can getvused,cheap,that I can have the body of my van,put on the trucks chassis.?
I doubt you can do that the frames are not the same
That's a great suspension kit same as my rig,
Would be great if you let me know the part number of your powertrax locker.
I don’t know the part number off hand and honestly I wouldn’t be confident it would be the right one for your van. There’s so many variations of axles in there vans you’re better off just going onto their site and finding the Powertrax No-Slip Locker that fits your exact van
love the video-- whats your wheel set up?
Just standard “d window” steelies 17x9 0 offset
Did you use a sliding door extension?
Yup
Hey Jim, when you swapped out your chrome headlights for the black ones, did the wiring harness remain the same? Gorgeous van. Thanks!
So long as you use the same bulb it is fine otherwise you’ll need an adapter. I actually switched back to the cargo lamps
Excellent shirt selection 💯
🤘🏻
LOVE the video! Hit us up, we'd love to do another project with you...maybe some bumpers?
Yea let’s do it!
@@brakeforsnakes Ready when you are!
I want to do the same lift for my 09 e350 extended. Can you measure front and rear wheel wells and let me know how high it sits on 35's. Thanks bro. Love the van and my Wasatch overland high top too!!
Weldtech actually has a video where they measure on 35’s and 33’s
I'm subscribing just for the fact of your T-shirt selections
haha hell yea!
Bro! Love the t-shirts! \m/ Obituary \m/. He'll yeah! Van looks sweet! What was the conversion cost in full? Thanks
Thanks 🤘🏻 all the parts are listed in the description and I did the labor myself so not much
Hi Jim. I Want This Done To My 2002 Ford Van. Still Looks Great. How Much Did It Cost Totally? Looks Awesome.
Check the links in the description for a list of current prices on all the parts
You did well. Maybe some more detail but attention spans are limited for most viewers. So good job. That's an interesting project. Head to the mountains beach where ever. Be safe My old 90 F 250 has a center point in the steering , anything else you have to drive it all the time.
Appreciate the feedback!
I know you said you’re running 35’s but whats your wheel size, width and offset? Super curious because it looks so sick. Thanks for the vid, badass build man.
17x9 and I think 0 offset but I can’t remember exactly