I bought a new 2018 ram promaster 2500 and started to convert it to camper van and the reason i got the promaster is exactly the reasons you mention. I looked at all the pros and cons of all of the vans and to me promaster was the winner its not perfect but it fits my needs. Great video like always but miss Allie. Take Care
I agree with you everyones needs are different and I'm not pushing the ram promaster on anyone. My conclusion after many hours of researching was that the promaster fit my needs better than a transit or sprinter and the important points for me was exactly the same Trent pointed out on this video.
@Matt Crone This would be an interesting video for someone (or me) to make. I'm in a class c bens and my house batteries are not connected to the house batteries... what's up with that?!? So frustrating when I boondock more than I plug-in. I'm still learning, but this is another reason I'm thinking of downsizing into something that better fits my needs.
@@TrentandAllie I once lived my four door sedan for about six months before getting an apartment near my work. So, the Express or Econoline vans would be an upgrade for me. Lol
4:49 Mercedes Talk; 8:12 Transit talk; 10:55 Promaster talk. FWIW, I am 5'4" and can stand up in an unbuilt low top Promaster and, were it not for my tall hubby, I'd be rolling in one of those for the fuel economy....on balance, I'm happy with the 'trade-off'.
This was so informative wow. As someone who is looking to get into Vanlife I'm really grateful that you put all of this information in one place for me in a very straightforward manner. This will definitely help as I look into which van will best suit my needs, thank you!
Just a note on historical accuracy, the Ford Transit has been manufactured by Ford since 1965, it is the grandfather. The Sprinter was first produced by Daimler Benz (Mercedes) in 1995 as a counter to the Transit
@@techs8660 He's probably thinking of the Ford Transit VE6 model which began production in 1986 and looks strikingly like a dad or grandpa (low and high) model of the Sprinter TN1 (initial production date 1995)...so claims wikipedia. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Transit ; en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_Sprinter
Awh... How I wish that Americans used the metric system. I have never converted as many feet and inches in my life. Soon I will become comfortable enough with feet and inches and feel American lol.
We came damn close. I forget exactly when, but I'm going to say 50 years ago. It was proposed, and it looked like we were going to go metric. But, there were enough dunderheads even back then to raise a big stink about it. The proposal died a quiet death and now we're even more stuck with these weird units which are a pain to convert even amongst themselves much less with units of the rest of the world. On the bright side, just about every one of us is holding a handy dandy conversion tool in our hands. Meanwhile yeah, two sets of hex tools... Saludos!
Trent researches tons of info, Trent gathers aforementioned info, puts info into excellent comparison video in one take that actually wears him out. Trent answers comments which are all “We miss Allie!” Thanks Trent great informative video especially w/o Allie being there😂
Love our Promaster 3500 RV. One thing with all of them is that regular dealerships that don’t have a hoist that can lift these things hate working on them. Make sure you have a network of dealers with hoists.
Trent, I feel my best fit for now is a Chevy Express. I Work in the city and I have to live stealth. With that being said, I have to be able to blend in easily in my area. I park near 24 hour places like, McDonalds, gyms, Amazon, corporate places that have a lot of parking. When I was throwing my money away on rent, I only came home to sleep. So for now, this will work till I retire.
I am a service writer. Which means I take in your vehicles that have problems. I worked at Ford and the Diesels cost a fortune to repair. It doesn't matter what brand of diesel. They cost a lot in maintenance. The repairs are extremely costly. Diesel mechanics are hard to find. 100% agreed to stay away from a diesel engine. The maintenance alone can be up to three times more than other vehicles. Good video
Oh man we were just about to go and look at the Sprinter this afternoon as we want to build this winter, but after watching your video, you brought up some amazing points. Thank you for taking the time to do this.
Thank you for being our one stop shop for all of this. It's a pain but necessary task to decide which features of what each type of van are and how they do or do not meet one's needs. You save us so much leg work.
I already have since this August Im the happy owner of a Dodge Ram Promaster 2018 - 1500 - 136 wb and I love it. I started slowly converting it, 2weeks ago I found a cabinet maker to make the furniture. I’m looking foward to start living in it. I love your vlogs they are always interesting and fun Thanks Nat
In the UK we have all used Ford Transits as work vans for years. I bought a new Transit and 10 years later it had turned to a heap of rust. A year later there wasn't any good steel left to weld to. The engine was great but I would never ever buy a Ford Transit again. All my friends that had Transits of a similar age rusted away within 8-11 years.
You are so right about Mercedes. They have unique, one-of-a-kind tools to do routine maintenance work. An owner cannot buy parts outside of Mercedes. I have seen this so many times at my car dealership... someone buys a used Mercedes for a great price, then they are hit with a $2,000 maintenance bill; and no one else can help because they don't have access to specialized "tools" to get the work done. You Got Balls! Watch Your Back!
I live in a Ford E-350, 1997, and absolutely love it. Sure, a high roof might be nice, but since I'm on the short side, over the past two years it hasn't been an issue, and certainly hasn't been an unhappy experience. I do get why many people wouldn't want to, but we're all different, and for some it's a matter of finances, which was my situation, plus due to RL issues, moving into a van very quickly was a must. That means I've been building while I live in it, which I honestly recommend, it gives you a very good idea of where things should be for you to be the happiest.
We purchased a Ford Transit 250 148" (I think)wheelbase with 3.5L Ecoboost mid-height in April. I am well along with adding a camper interior. It is functional now with hot water, electrical, bed/sofa and AC. I was thinking about posting photos on G+ but recently read that G+ is going away. Couldn't be happier with our choice made on the looks of the van, dealerships and we don't like the smell of diesel. You did a nice review that should be helpful to some.
@@TrentandAllie We have watched a lot of TH-cam videos by people who have kindly shown what they have done. That is a big help when starting from scratch as we did. Our requirements are different in that we have a home and will not be living full time in the van and plan to use campground shore power or if need be, we purchased a HF 2000 watt Predator generator that could boondock if allowed. We now have a 30' class A motorhome that we plan to sell as it is much larger than we need. So we will not have to put in the expensive power systems that people that are living off grid need. However, our van is probably more stealthy than almost any as the only exterior features are a Maxxair fan on the roof and a shore power socket under the rear bumper that looks like a trailer hitch socket.
Well, the important question would be, "What would Frank choose?" (WWFC?). Low jump in, swing out doors vs slider, best right front seat for dogs, does the window roll down so he can get some doggie head out the window sniffs, is there room for him between the 2 front seats to see squirrels or other gogs while driving, are the door panels dog proof plastic, etc. Maybe someone should do a Frank tv mini-series or 60 minutes interview on "WWFC?" Could be groundbreaking journalism. Ya, I'd watch.
We love our Transit too though it is a Coachmen not custom build. We are not tall and we don't have the Ecoboost but it handles amazingly well with plenty of pep and very comfortable.
That ecoboost has the best torque of any van! Awesome for off-road terrains, and I don't mind the elevated body. You never know what you could be scraping at the bottom if your ride is too low.
Wow! Thank you for spending the time to explain this.. I went and bought a 2000 fiat DUCATO 1.9 Tdl converted Motorhome because the risk of converting was too high.. but now, after a few months, I’m realising that perhaps the effort of converting would have provided an easier means of repair.. especially when the parts are no longer available
I watched a video of all the new safety features on the 2019 Sprinter and they look amazing! Do any of the other vans have safety features?? I would prefer gas over diesel though and Sprinters are expensive. DISTRONIC PLUS is the adaptive cruise system from Mercedes-Benz which uses automatic speed regulation and proximity control to automatically keep you safely traveling behind the vehicle in front of you. Active Lane Keeping Assist works to keep drivers safely in their lane when they unintentionally drift. The system makes small corrections to steering and braking. Active Brake Assist works to monitor your vehicle’s surroundings in an attempt to stop a collision before it happens. In the event of an impending collision, the system can apply the vehicle’s brakes autonomously. ATTENTION ASSIST works by learning your driving habits. When the system senses you may be fatigued it will first make minor safety adjustments and will then alert you to stop driving if necessary. Crosswind Assist works to keep your vehicle stable during strong winds. The innovative system uses sensors to anticipate wind gusts and uses targeted braking to counteract the weight of the wind. This system is perfect for large vans like the Sprinter.
These are all really nice features to have for sure! I don't know of any other van brands that are including these types of features in them. These are also a lot of computer systems that can fail and cause problems that require Dealership servicing though! You just can't have your cake an eat it too haha. When everything is working properly Sprinters have the nicest set up for sure but you pay for it as well.
Holy smokes! Thanks for all the dirty deets! Sure gave us a new perspective. Promaster sounds pretty good. It's gonna be a hard pick to be honest. The Pro looks pretty cool. We hadn't looked into it yet. This whole vanlife idea is only a week or so old for us, but we are seriously obsessed now. SO thank you for all this info. We really appreciate it & will keep you posted what we go with! - Erin + Brian
The Ford Transit also comes with only front wheel drive next to the rear wheel- and all wheel drive. So this version also cones with a lower cargo floor and in conbination with the max height roof, you can use a trampoline and not hit the roof. Personally I'd go for a Transit or a Transit Custom L2H2. But I'm still debating with myself all the time, so I've got time to choose. Have a nice day
Go look and measure under the Promaster , Although it doesn't have a drive shaft they never dropped the floor that much , mostly a huge waste of space with cables crossing taking up space , that's the main reason why I passed on the Promaster
As someone who just watches the videos and has never been in a van one could live in, I think a major advantage of the pro-master, which you hinted at (you mentioned the widths) but didn't state explicitly, is that it's possible to sleep across in them even if you're pretty tall. So the bed (especially if permanent) takes up 60" (for queen size, less if full size) of length rather than 72" for a bed which runs front to back. That's a lot of length in a small space.
I want to get a Promaster specifically for that reason. Now I'm just trying to figure out if I can fit everything I want into the 136" wheelbase, or if I have to get a 159".
The only thing that I'd like to add is that so far in my experience with my Sprinter the only time it needs a dealership repair is when dealing with the engine itself. I have had lots of other repairs so far since my Sprinter came very neglected and all were dealt with by my Nappa repair shop with parts no more expensive than for my Ford.
I agree that it's important to be able to stand-up in your camper van without hunching over. Since I'm 6'3", that immediately eliminated every option except the Ford Transit high roof. More options would have been nice, but at least it was an easy decision.
I think you offered a relatively fair comparison, although I think your readers should know that all diesel emissions systems from every manufacturer were problematic around 2009-2012. The Mercedes diesel emissions systems took on a lot of changes in the 2014 model year that has made them significantly more reliable. I would care not to own a pre-2014, to be completely honest. Also, people shouldn't be afraid to deal with Mercedes--I got a combination of $3,000 in rebates plus negotiated $4,200 off MSRP, which put the price well below what I negotiated on a Transit and only 1.2K more than the Promaster. I will be doing all of my own maintenance as they are pretty easy to service. The MB dealers do charge more for service, although I find parts to cost close to the same as my Toyota.
That's awesome man! If you can do the work yourself that could make a big difference!! I would change that timing chain every 40k miles so you don't end up with the $15,000 paper weight though!! That's just me being paranoid though!
@@TrentandAllie None of these vans are Toyotas, let's face it. Diesel vans have a complicated emissions system. The Transits have direct injection, which means they'll have valve deposits early-on. Our friend's Transit is having transmission problems. Promaster has rocker arm problems (google "treaded pentastar tick") as well as transmission issues. I decided that if I'm going to have a problem, I'd rather have to replace an external emissions sensor rather than a cylinder head or transmission. That's just me though. What we need is the Toyota of yester-year to make us a bombproof van! Hope to see you guys on the road sometime. -Ken
Hey Ken. Can you speak to the timing belt statement made by Trent? I'm still on the fence (big time) about even going the van conversion route, mainly because of the cautionary tales of woe that I've heard/read from other van owners (from all of the main manufactures), and also, largely due to the fact that I am a lifetime Toyota loyalist, and I just can't wrap my head around the fact that I may have major mechanical issues on a relatively new van (I plan on buying new). I've been doing my due diligence, and doing a crazy amount of research before I make the leap on purchasing a van, and so far (much to my wife's dismay), I'm leaning towards not doing a van conversion. I just can't quite imagine owning a vehicle that may leave me stranded, and penniless, because of maintenance, and mechanical issues. Once upon a time, like yourself, I could have done some of the work myself. But now (on a good day), I can maybe manage to change a flat tire. By the time Toyota jumps into the American market with a cargo van, I'll probably be watching your van conversion videos from a rest home.
@@gr8commission Ha, good read, gave me a laugh. I'll let Trent elaborate but what I think he is referring to is the timing chain that broke on Eamon & Bec's van (some other popular youtubers), which is a 200,000+ mile and 10 or 11 year old van with unknown service history. I can't speak to that, but I am seeing new MB vans from FedEx and overnighters running around my area that wouldn't be purchased by penny-pinching companies if they were *that* bad. Amazon just ordered 20,000 MB Sprinters. I'm also a Toyota guy, so let's get this out of the way....all of these vans have their issues. I initially wanted a Promaster but was shyed away by the valvetrain problems of the Pentastar engine (google 'dreadead pentastar tick') as well as the transmission issues. After talking to people in my area that had them, including my USPS postmaster that drives them, these two powertrain issues are a matter of when, not if. Finally, a good friend has a business and a fleet of Transit Connects had to rent a Promaster because his vans were all in use and he needed one for a job, had the flexplate blow out of the transmission on his first day of having it. I set my sights on something else. Transits I think are generally good, but with some new van teathing issues. Guibo joints, wet air filters and some transmission issues. I think Ford is dealing with most of those under warranty. Their engines are all direct injection, and as such will develop valve deposits over time. I would have more confidence in the powertrain of the Transit than the Promaster. The red herring on Sprinters and any diesel van is the complication of the emissions system. There are a variety of pressure and NOX sensors that talk to each other and if everything isn't playing nicely, you can get the CEL. It's a bigger problem on the V6 diesels than the 4 cylinder, and I am really happy to have gotten a 4 cylinder version. Otherwise, the powertrains are good. A Mercedes mechanic friend says MB gas cars are only so-so, but their diesels are what Mercedes are known for and they are robust. If I'm going to replace crap, I'd rather deal with external exhaust sensors than cylinder heads and transmissions. I have a lot of confidence in this van, based on the glowing reviews by other owners. Quite frankly I wouldn't be as excited about a pre-2014 (due to the older and more problematic emissions hardware). Just my .02. You can read more on ourkaravan [dot] com. I personally wouldn't let this hold you back too much. The van has fundamentally changed my life, getting me out more and allowing me to spend far more quality time with my daughter. After losing my 31-year old wife to cancer, life's too short, get out there.
SPRINTER SWAAAGG! Trent, dude, I was really hoping to hear your opinion at the end so I could read heated opinion comments. Thumbs up for serious effort and research here!
You just saved me a ton of time. Thank you so much. You confirmed the way I've been leaning towards a Promaster. The only thing you could of done to make it better would be having Allie sitting beside you.
@@TrentandAllie She has personality plus on you videos. Anyway my story is my dad worked to age 83 and passed on one hour after getting off work. I was heading down that path until I saw yours and other videos. Now I plan on selling most everything. Getting a van a enjoy my last 30 years or so. You two are helping that dream to become a reality. So keep up the good work. By the way I'll be 65 in a few months.
@@gotgold4590 More power to you!! So happy to hear that we have this effect on people! I just believe in living life to the fullest and want everyone else to do the same!!
I’m 6’4” and going with a Ford E350 extended. Parts and mechanics everywhere, stealth, low profile, and can fit in nearly every garage. I will get a comfy chair on wheels to maneuver around the van.
Definitely not a bad choice! I used to drive an e350 ext when I was doing plumbing work. Was a trust vehicle other than they are notorious for gas gauge issues haha.
Ford Transit Ext Long 2017 with 3.7L dual turbo V6 Ecoboost. I bought this use vehicle in Feb 2018 for the price of $40,800 Canadian 15% taxes included. I have travelled over 20,000km since and the consumption has been fantastic for my expectation, 14L/100KM or 17 MPG, all refuelling recorded with Fuelly app. Fully converted, my vehicle weigh 3,610KG or 7,942 lbs. As always, thank you Trent for your informative videos. I’ll be bumming the slopes in Vermont and NH in Feb Mar 2019, hope to see you there. I have the Epic pass and will be on the hills for 3-4 weeks.
@@TrentandAllie You mentioned some companies that may convert Transits to a 4 x 4, though it's pricey. Are you able to say which companies? THANK YOU For all the researching you did to present this. Most helpful!! And not boring.
@@elbee1290 I would not invest in making the Extended Long Transit 4*4 at its ass would be dragging its ass behind. The disadvantage as it is is that the rear end drag near the ground without rough terrain LOL... That vehicle is not for off-road driving. Trent was just joking on that subject. Yes, I like my vehicle even if it is tall and yes I can feel the wind gust when driving, but I'm at an advantage, I'm old, so I drive around 60mh LOL. On the other hand, I snowboard Double Black Diamonds, glades.
This video was awesome! Def needed this when I bought my van. I went with the Promaster 159 ext. And it was the best decision ever. Why promaster? Like you said it was the cheapest! We bought the van brand new, out the door for 30,000 with rebates. Has back up sound sensors, as well as a back up camera (not the best quality but gets the job done). And got an amazing warranty. Supposedly has the sharpest turning radius of all vans. And I'm so glad its lower to the ground making it easier to hop in. The funny part is that it was the last van I checked out. And truly turned out to be the best option for me. Especially for the length. It wansn't too long or too short, but literally perfectly in the middle. The sprinter was so expensive it was a joke. The sprinter got a redesign for 2019, it has been 10 years since it has been changed, and still the dealership wouldn't give me any deal, not even on a brand new 2017 Sprinter which they had tons of just sitting in the parking lot. Who wants to buy a new van already 2 years old for the same price as the newly redesigned version? And yes they are making a gas version. There is already like a 1-2 year waiting list for one. The sales guy at the mercedes dealership called me for 3 months trying to get me to come back. They try so hard to be cool and exclusive, and it is just not worth it for what you have to pay. Especially considering that you might end up hitting something, or someone hitting you, scratching paint or getting a dent. As for the transit, like you said it's the tallest option. But that's not always a good thing. I got caught with horrible high winds driving through arizona to California, that they recommended truckers to pull over bc they can easily tip over. I was scared driving my promaster - can't imagine having 10 extra inches on the top. I would have had to pull over. All in all, I'm so happy with my promaster. It's easy to drive. and even more enjoyable to drive than my Hyundai Elantra. Even though I dont have back windows, still very easy to drive. I know that the front and back bumpers are made of plastic pieces that can easily be changed need be, without having to change the whole bumper.
I bought the PM for the width and general feel of the interior space. Mine is a 159" high top; got it for $25,900 with 6 months and about 10k on it. Transferable warranty. It's been perfect.
Yay, I bought a used 2015 Ram Promaster hightop 136" wheelbase. I love the way it drives, it's just right for me (and I'm short, but I don't like low roofs!). Still doing a no-build build and excited about travelling (not on rough roads tho!). It's kind of odd in that it has a built in air conditioner/heater in the back that hangs from the ceiling, which I think I will leave in it vs removing it. We'll see. Anyway, happy to have it, and thanks a lot Trent for your video (which, intentionally or not, confirmed I made a good choice!).
hey guys, regular watcher here! (currently you just did the tiles on Terry!)....so something else to think about everyone. With the Ram Promaster being front wheel drive, if, like me, you live in Canada, and WILL be driving it in snow, once you build out? It becomes rear heavy, and you won't get traction in the front in the snow, with all that weight in the back (bed, garage, batteries etc). I would choose Ram first, but perhaps keep my fresh/grey tanks up front, and perhaps even my electrical up front? to distribute the weight well? Open shelving in the back, or "no door" storage with a high lip and use baskets to reduce rear weight? I've learned this from watching other vids from owners who had problems that lived in Canada....love you both missed the goats and dogsin this one!
This is the first video I ever saw from you guys, it was in my recommended, and I had no idea you lived in your van, I just thought you were hanging out in a corner of your room, seated on the floor of a house, next to your bed and dresser, talking about vans because maybe you'd lived in one for a summer during a road trip or something. Then you started saying you owned this van, you knew people who live in that van, and I was like, wait, this is the inside of a VAN?! Impressive buildout! So then I binged your videos all day because I have the flu. And because vanlife is thoroughly appealing to me.
Hi Tren. I do have the diesel Promaster that I'm converting and I have found an independent garage that will work on it. They have actually been far, far more helpful then any of the local dealers. It took a bit to find this shop but they've been great. They actually work on anything. They've been around over 60 yrs and have great techs.
I've been agonizing for awhile which one I wanted to get. Always figured Sprinters were the way to go, but I think I've settled on the Promaster. Thanks for the video!
Hi All. I had a Promaster 150 high-roof and was not impressed. The cargo area was great and it had plenty of room for what I was using it for. I had all the options but the seats were terrible. They cannot be adjusted up or down and it feels like you are too high and dangling. This was a 2016. I sold it and bought a Transit just because of the seats.
Promasters offer a 6 way adjustable seat. It goes up and down, has lumbar support as well. They're a nice seat for sure. I had them in my first promaster. My second promaster has the regular seats and they are not nearly as comfortable. But you can always swap a new seat into the vehicle. I see it done all the time!!
@@TheRealCheckmate I sold it for $3,000 more than I bought it. I bought it private party in Arizona. We don't pay sales tax on used vehicles if they are private party. The seats were uncomfortable and the 2015 didn't offer any tilt steering wheel adjustment and to my knowledge the new ones don't either. The guy I bought it from sold it for the same reason. I thought it wouldn't be a big deal either. Not comfortable at all. I made out pretty good.
You sir killed it. Your all that and a bag of chips. Really appreciate all you both do for the community. I do think there will be more and more people living in vans or tiny homes in the future your ahead of the pack. Take of each other we love you both.
@@stablestoic1491 - You might be waiting awhile. Why not get a used van, practice building on that framework and boondocking with it, before jumping into vanlife in a new electric van? Go see Central & South America in it. Live your life. This way, by the time you come back to the US, you have all the experience you need and know exactly what you want & don't want. But more importantly, you'll learn your energy needs, like how often you need to recharge your batteries or get fuel. For me personally, I'd like to see a hybrid van, bc in life you never know where both might be necessary. Instead of gas first & then electric kicking in, Chevy has hybrids where it's electric first, and then the fuel engine kicks in after the electric is empty. Also, you want an engine that can provide enough torque and horsepower to get you out of sticky situation (like your tires stuck in a pit). And while electric has way better torque, Tesla and Chevy both have switched recently from AC induction motor to a Permanent-magnet motor on their smaller, lighter vehicles. The AC induction is far better on heavier load vehichles like weighted-cargo vans, which require higher-performance. So it's important to know what you'll be getting and if it'll be sufficient for off-road, off-grid terrains. Not all American roads are smooth, and there'll be times it'd be easier to drive up a rocky hill --- than to travel a longer route around it, which will eat away at your stored electric power. You think range-anxiety is bad on the regular roads? It'll be far worse in the boondocks. Unless you plan on staying put in your van, electric won't be ready for RVing or van excursions for decades.
You can always convert a van into electrical. Get a salvage electrical car and swap its power train into a van. A guy turned a gas propelled VW Passat into electrical and it is amazing.
Issue with Sprinters is primarily availability of fuel (becoming more difficult to get the recommended mix in certain parts of country). There is a reason Sprinter is delivering a gasoline-powered engine to the US. There is also a reason Promasters are growing in popularity.
Yup. Made all the same comparisons and came to the same conclusion as you. Ram Promaster, long wheel base, not extended...but I did want diesel and have changed my mind on that. Going with gas. 👍 Very helpful. Thx for all the hard work and info.
One thing you did not repeat enough; the extra 4" width of the Promaster (6' 1" vs 5' 9" on Ford and Mercedes) at bed level and it's significance in saving space. On a Full or Twin size bed, the length is typically 2' longer than the width. So, if you can run your bed in your van East/West (width wise) instead of North/South (lengthwise), you can save yourself about 2 feet of floor space measured North to South by running you bed East/West. Every extra inch in this width dimension is critically important when it comes to comfort when sleeping and you will need some insulation in those walls which will eat into this critical dimension even further. If you are starting with 69" or 5' 9", after 2" of combined insulation and wall board on each wall surface, you are down to 5' 5" for "stretching out" if building a East/West bed. Trent maybe you can comment on the exact length of your bed in East/West format and with your 6' 1" of height, how have you adapted to sleeping in this space. I'm mostly a side sleeper so I don't use the full length of my 5' 10" body but if the space available to sleep is less than your height, I'm guessing stomach and back sleeping doesn't work to well.
This is a huge benefit for sure!! My bed measures 67” east to west because I built the bed into the insulation cavities along both walls. I’ll try to make a video about that in the future 😎🤘🏼
I raised the bed in our 2018 Transit to where the window bulge is and was able to fit a full size mattress 75" x 54" with 1" thick foam board on each side. I am not using wood or any other kind of paneling but am using primer and paint right on the aluminum foil. It has a pleasant texture that looks like I poached a couple white rhinos. Very happy with the results.
Jack, I wonder if the width tapers in quite a bit as you get higher on the walls? Trent says in the video the width is 73" and apparently his finished out width is 6" narrower at 67" or 5' 7". You found a spot where the width is 77" (75"+1"+1"). I'll have to check out your van build photos...thanks for the info.
@@timhardman4764 Tim, I checked the finished dimensions and the width is 74" between the foam boards at the top surface of the mattress. The mattress, 6" thick top surface is 29-1/2" above the floor (factory vinyl floor). The one inch thick foam boards are in a recess in the body (commonly used for side windows which we don't have). This results in the end of the mattress being about even with the foam board's inside surface. The foam boards are flat as I have used the small curve of the sides to provide a space for the reflective foil to bounce heat back toward the body and have sealed all around the boards edges to prevent transmission there. As anyone knows that has worked with these vans, you have to fight for every square inch of space so I notched the mattress to fit around the rear door pillars so at the very back the length is reduced a few inches. Works out fine. The sides are nearly vertical as the first foot or so is where they narrow an insignificant amount. I have not posted any photos, which I hoped to post on G+ before I read that G+ is going away. This photo from Ford shows how the body goes in the window area: www.ford.com/commercial-trucks/transit-cargo-van/gallery/
@@davidc.5054 Yes, I've seen those and they look like a good idea. A little over $1K for a pair uninstalled without windows. I did hear the windows, if ordered, are not flush on the inside and stick out (inside the van) and people bang their heads on them alot...just something to think about re; where to position the window mount inside the flare. Also the flares are tapered or angled so it's just a little space at first and then up to 5" at the end point on each side. Also it seems like the area to mount them is restricted so if you want a "high" bed so you can store tall gear in your "garage" under the bed, you maybe limited regarding just how high the bed can be where the flares give you adequate space for extending the area your feet and head can go. I wonder if the flares interfere with opening your rear doors all the way (270 degrees)? I think the taper allows the side slide doors to operate without modification. It looks like a great product but be sure you have bed height figured out before you order it and understand how getting the product with windows installed will effect your comfort. From what I know I would order without the windows and instead install windows higher up, above the flare pocket for cross ventilation if there is room above...otherwise install windows before or after the flare.
I'm looking at buying a Transit right now with a gas engine. It costs less than a Sprinter and can be serviced ANY where in NA! It's also "upgradable" to 4x4 if needed in the future with F-150 truck parts. Overall maintenance cost will be lower as the 3.7L is used in numerous Ford vehicles. One thing that I think most people may over look is the cost of a diesel engine. Fuel cost and DEF add up in a big way with little advantage in MPG. It's a trade off for a gas engine. It will require rebuild sooner but I think with proper preventive maintenance you can get a lot of mileage out of it and that cost is offset. Sprinters are really a commercial vehicle and in that environment a diesel is a must for the long daily grind of 500+ miles per day. Of course the ECO Boost is the torque king but if your not hauling cargo for a living do you really need that? With a properly built out van you should be no where near the payload cap. of these vehicles! Good video!
You'd be surprised at how much weight goes into these builds! Our Promaster weighs 9,000 lbs fully loaded. Also, the more power you have the easier it is to move the vehicle around even if it's overkill. with that being said if i went ford I'd get the eco boost for sure.
This was so helpful! I'm slowly working toward van life after I graduate, and this definitely helped highlight the difference between the vans. Thank you!
@@TrentandAllie Old Transits were great.. new Transits are the worst option in Europe, ive owned them, best all round for price reliablity has to be Peugeot, Fiat and Citreon, all same chassis with different engines. I Own the Peugeot brand and are very impressed, these vans take a real hammering, no real issues so far 👍👍👍
Some notes about the Ford Transit. I drive one for work and it works amazing, I've taken some tight turns in it and did some fast turns, it's the 5'11 roof height, it's pretty great, they only issues that I've ever noticed with the van is with the sliding door. Sometimes when you slam it shut, it'll slam back open. You have to slam it shut otherwise it won't close properly but you won't know until you're driving and turning left when a notification will pop up and say it's open. My door has done that numerous times but it's never flown open while driving. There was another van (exact same) the had issues with its door to where it wasn't closing properly at all but still stayed close... just not locking... I'm not sure the exact reason but it would stay close but it wasn't flush with the side of the van. I believe it's the longer wheel base but I'm not sure if it's the extended or not. If I do van life, I would definitely get a Ford transit but I would need the highest roof as I'm 6'4
As a small transport company we operate 4 x citroen/fiat/peugeot/promaster whatever you want to call them vans, our experience from this is mixed, our Citroen version has had limited issues, nothing too major, one of the peugeot has had 2 new gearboxes and needs a third, another peugeot needed a new engine at 60k miles that cost 10k pounds to replace, all the vans have suffered with electrical issues, airbag ecu failures, engine warning lights on, DPF filters constantly blocking and needing forced regen etc. Constant door hinge failures, they chew through tyres, i could go on and on. All in all these vans are low quality, cheap to buy but cost a fortune to maintain, in hindsight we should have spent more on better quality vehicles. Their all due for replacement soon and the only thing i know is we will never buy these vehicles again....
check for water leaking in the van... Water in the engine compartment and leaking on all the electrical is BS. Run a hose on the windshield and check out ... or go here and read up more info on it. If you want your van to last FIX IT SOON!!! A lot of vans have these issues... I believe most of the electrical / ECU / Bulbs, etc...etc... are due to water intrusion in the engine compartment and electronics. Good Luck... check out this link for more info.www.promasterforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=84639
Eric Potter our vehicles are professionally maintained with no expense spared as they are our livelihood. I do appreciate they will have a far harder life than a van used as a camper, it doesn’t change the fact these are built to a price point though and no where near the quality of a mercedes, its the old saying you get what you pay for, i have friends who run mercs in the same industry and have no where near the amount of issues we have doing the same job...and yes we are buying mercedes vans soon 👍
Yeah, the front wheel drive gearbox on the European ones is a bit of a question mark. I have no idea if they use the same gear in the Promaster, but they certainly don't use the same engine, they put in a much thirstier V6 in the states. Same with the Transit, for that matter, can't get it in the US with the super frugal eco diesel in the states. In Europe, you get 35 US MPG or over 40 UK MPG out of a high-top Transit. I'm not a fan of the Ducato. I don't like front wheel drive, I don't like the looks and I'm not convinced about the quality over time. But that's largely a personal thing.
Thank you so much! You answered exactly the right questions I had. I watched like 10 other videos and yours is the only one that gave such great info. Pro-master it is!
My husband and I are seriously considering life as nomads and I love the idea of living in a van like yours but he is a drummer. Don't think his drum kit will fit in a van! heehee
I'd definitely get the van you and Allie have, or the Ford version. Mostly because all of the Mercedes Sprinter vans I've seen have had major engine issues requiring very expensive repairs, like a new engine or transmission, and have to dish out tons of money! No thanks. I'll stick with an American van which isn't as expensive to fix and easier to find a mechanic to fix in most big cities!!!
Exactly!! I have one friend who has had to put a engine and a transmission in their sprinter... Thats $22,000 in repairs!!! That doesn't make sense to me haha
Look what happened to Eamon and Bec and The Matneys. Both were stuck in other countries waiting weeks to get a new engine or transmission. Any country in North America and elsewhere you can find an engine for an American van much easier (since it is likely made there as well). They're easier to fix and much cheaper to fix! Thankfully my dad is a Master Ford Mechanic and retired automotive instructor, so I'd have no problem getting it fixed at home. Or elsewhere. For much less than a Sprinter. That is very important to me!!!
Thanks for justifying my purchase of the promoter extended. Finished a 6,750 mile mtn biking trip from NY to AZ, CO, UT, & NM. Van did great except for dirt roads with severe washboarding. If I lowered my tire pressures it would have been better. One suggestion, with all the numbers you mentioned some text in your video would have been useful. Just a quick summary sheet with dimensions and cost.
Having wanted a tiny house for a few years, I just realized that I really need more mobility and less gas money, so I'm seriously looking into van life now. Thanks for a really informative comparison!
Thanks Trent. I found this very informative and not at all boring. I can definitely see why you guys have the one that you do. Particularly the width since the positioning of your bed. I think since I'm a single individual - I could go with your model -with the regular length and go with a twin bed. I've been looking back-n-forth over the 3 - trying to obtain some of this info. Now I have it all right here. I think Ram oughta hire you . . . you make them shine in a "fair" comparison sorta way. And just fyi . . . you don't HAVE to yell at the cam . . . I actually had to turn down my volume.
If you aren't sure which size bed to put in, there are bed frames that pull out to make a full or queen if suddenly the need arises. Or you could put in a murphy bed over some other seating arrangement which could be changed in size if the twin doesn't work out. I'd rather have more room to move around or store things than have a luxurious bed.
15:10-15:32 Nailed it for me. No one talks about the possible “tipping-over” aspect🙄. He mentioned off-roading - but I’m thinking storms and high winds too. Thanks for putting that in!!
Aww, I’ll gently touch the like button since I think you did try hard 😂. Seriously though, this is one of the most informative van comparisons I’ve seen. Not just 2 vans pulled side by side, where the van layout plays a huge factor into what van people like. I’m super torn on what van we’d choose, But i think the pro master is the way to go for sure. But 4x4 is pretty important, so it would be hard to not have it. But the ease of working on the pro master and the repair costs are so small compared the the sprinter. My husband could basically do most if not all the work himself. Just wish the made a 4x4 option. One day maybe we will jump in (not as a permanent ‘house’, but some epic vacations in our off seasons on the ranch) but 3 small kids kinda puts a hinderance on that for now. No idea how we’d make a layout work....
Trent & Allie haha, ya pretty much. They are only 4 and 3 (twins), right now, so they can fit in a lot smaller places but still I think it would be crazy tight. But since it would be more for like long vacations (like travel across Canada for a month type thing) and not so much stealth camping, maybe some sort of bunk situation with a bathroom and small kitchen but cooking mostly outside would work. No idea what that would look like thought. But motorhomes/trailers are pretty inconvenient in lots of ways to travel with which is why we don’t really want to do that. Anyways Maybe we will have to wait 18 years and go when their gone. Lol
My parents fit a family of 5 inside a van to sleep when I was growing up. Seats folded to a bed, parents slept there. My older sister slept under their heads across the van. Just sleeping bag on the floor. Kids don't need mattresses. Little sister was in her playpen between drivers seats and the main bed. And me? Oh I definitely had the absolute BEST spot of all. I slept in a hammock that hooked above the front drivers seats. It had metal hooks that clipped over the metal ridge that went above the windows. Loved that perch, best views. This was the 1964 and on, with 7 year age diff from youngest to oldest kid. No seatbelts or carseats back then though. Little baby sis was in the playpen while driving too. We used that van which had a fold up table, and a little icebox and I cant' remember if there was a sink. Coleman stove cooked outside. When we couldn't fit in there to sleep we had a tent, but many times just slept on the ground under the stars. One time in the tent it rained too hard, My dad took us into nearest town and mom took us to a movie, and my dad took down the campsite by himself in the rain. God I miss him. Very rarely we would get a cabin, and once a houseboat which was awesome. We had a couple of little boats we'd put on top sometimes. I was an idiot and married a guy who doesn't like camping.
Recovering Soul wow, awesome memories! My mom remembers camping much the same, the 4 sisters and their parents all in a little camping van. Hard to do these days. We usually take tents but having a van would be amazing and so much more versatile.
@@kristawheale8785 It deffinately instilled a love of nature in me. As an adult the only way I could go camping was to tag along on my sons boy scout trips. Backpacking camping, summer camp, whatever I could do. We climbed Mt. Whitney when I was 50. Amazing memories and for me at least, a once in a lifetime experience. I made it to Assistant scout Master before he outgrew it. I got some great photos of a Black bear and her cub. Just right on the trail in front of me. Woooow. As a kid we would catch lizards and frogs, and always lots of fishing.
Not all to sure but I like The Dodge Pro-master or Ford transit. I saw the Ford tonight tonight. Yes it was tall being used as an ambulance the driver liked it a lot, I asked him. I like it because It Gas ⛽️ expensive Diesel and The other required Fluids to clean up the fuel? Another obvious benefit is “Easy to get parts and they are Cheeper.” We had a VW Realita once it was $89.95 for a gas cap. That wasn’t all. Every time we had work done on it Wow it was expensive. That was a German Built Great RV But you had big repair Bills So later We got a Ford Pleasure Way Excel. That has been an All around Excellent RV
Thank you for this video!! I was pretty sure what I wanted, but having the big three compared totally made up my mind. Just an extra tidbit for you, oil changes for the Sprinter are upwards of $350.00. A bit rich for my blood. I’m going to go with the Ram Promaster 159 extended web. My only other question is what is the difference between the 2500 and the 3500? No worries if you don’t reply, I’ll just have to do some more research. I am a big Trent and Allie and Frank fan, I love your videos. Cheers!
Great video. Just to mention that a diesel based Sprinter or Ducato are the best options if you plan to travel around Latin America. Support for those are available just about in any country in America. And I very much agree that the extra inches in the ProMaster (Ducato for us) width makes all of the difference.
Thank you for the information all in one place. I am currently saving and shopping for a van in one of these models. I am trying to decide between the Promaster and the Transit. I am short enough to get by with the Med roof on the transit. I will be looking at all the comments you get also; more information from your subscribers because you have the smartest group. Thanks.
Wow! Trent , that was a "van load" of detail! So much work on your part. So yes, gold star for this video. And I'm not even looking for a van so not sure why I watched. Lol.
We have a Winnabago Trend on a Dodge Promaster FWD 159" Wheel Base. with a V6 none turbo. I think were around 10'6" tall and 8' Wide, Winnebago built this Fibreglass Body on the Promaster Frame behind the seats. Winnebago Our Promaster is a V6 gas engine with automatic 6 speed, you can manually shift ot the other way leave in Drive. The rims are from a Puegot Truck but it is a 225/70R/ and it is fwd so make sure you install All Terrain Drive, we put 8,000KM on the old smooth tires then threw them away and installed the All Terrain Drive, also were averaging 14 to 16mpg the higher mpg we have to have the best driving conditions. The Promaster Chassis sits real low to the ground I would like the rear to be a wee bit higher, were happy owning it.
A really great video, Trent. Doesn't go into too much details, and hits the high points for comparing using one of these three base vans to build a home away from home. I know this wasn't the thrust of it however, but irrespective of the fact you have restricted your talking points to "new" options, the fact is that all of them represent a cost point that many people wishing to live full or part time in a van simply cannot afford, both from a build as well as maintenance issues. So, for those out there that still feel that the costs associated with any of these options is beyond their reach, I feel that I must point out that, and again, realizing that this is basically off point, I must say that I feel the option of buying a built class B extended roof (and potentially widened for that matter) older V-8 powered low mileage and well cared for Ford, Chevy, or Dodge class B RV built in North American is the best option overall. These all have mechanically proven drive trains that not only have been designs refined to a virtual bulletproof level over decades, but, parts and maintenance/repair costs are both going to be substantially, or even extremely, cheaper here in the USA. Used and aftermarket parts are readily available for them, and everybody from backyard mechanics on up can work on them as well. Sure, your gas mileage will probably suffer in comparison, but power available will not be an issue, and even after factoring in the increase cost of fuel, given how much you can save from choosing this option, does not come close to leveling out the cost savings overall. Just saying, amigo.
Thanks for this info - very helpful. I have questions about several things and I haven't found any of your You Tubes to address them. 1. Insuring a van, especially after modifying it yourself, and how you do that from life on the road. 2. Are warranties changed/nullified after van modified. 3. Do you have a leveling system. 4. Does the ProMaster have a lower ground clearance, and if so have you had any problems. 5. Do you have any van builder recommendations in Southern California. If you have You Tube videos for these I'm happy to go to them.
Hey Leli! 1. We insure with geico and use a mailing address in Utah 2. Some manufacturers will void warranties for modification that is " not the manufacturers intent" 3. we have air bags in the rear to prevent suspension sag 4. it may have a slightly lower ground clearance but it has never been an issue for us 5. I know 40 hours of freedom is building vans in San Diego Also San Diego camper vans does them.
@@TrentandAllie Hey Trent! Going to look at a low roof 136WB Promaster tmrw. I'm 5'5" and my partner is 5'8" and we live in Chicago and will be static most of the time so trying to be as stealthy as possible with the low roof. I want to ask did you get the rear suspension air bags installed at a dealership or an RV mechanic? How much did they run you?
Thanks for putting all the stats together not agreeing on one thing how 5'9" or 5"10 would be okay with a roof at 6 foot or slightly less. Sure as long as you lost nothing to flooring or ceiling build out.
I have been starting to pull details together about the Sprinter and the ProMaster. I know a Ford Mechanic that told me NOT to go for the Transit, so my list has come down to 2. I have been leaning towards the ProMaster and found your talk to be well put together with the facts. Thank you Trent.
Glad to have been of some help Brooke!! I think the ford mechanic probably only sees the worst and never the best but I think the Promaster is a great option.
Great video and thanks for all the details. It's also worth mentioning that the super high top Sprinter has no roof rack option and a roof loading weight of 0kg. I.e, you can't put anything on the roof. So, although you get the height, if you were planning on installing roof solar panels, the super high top roof isn't really an option. I don't know if this is the case with any other brands and makes of super high top roof vans, but it's definitely something to bear in mind!
I looked them all over before I decided to buy a Sprinter. Allot came down to fit and finish, the Promaster is a Fiat built in Mexico, the Transit is a Renault assembled from parts built from all over the world, the Sprinter is a MB built in Germany. Ive put180k Miles on my 2014 Sprinter, no more problems than you would expect from any other rig. I rest my case.
Hey Trent & Allie (well Trent)!!! You are always providing helpful information. We appreciate you for taking the time to explain all of these comparisons. The ProMaster still wins (for me). Be SAFE out there and Thank you for sharing. 😎😁
You are misleading people on the sprinter. A diesel motor can be worked on at any place that services diesel motors. I have yet to go to the dealer for basic services other than warranty work which was for a def fuel heater. In my opinion. You get what you pay for. I have not had any issues with my 2016. Not only will the sprinter get better gas mileage but it will be around way longer than any of the other vans. There is a reason you see fed Ex with sprinters. I’m just saying....
Not all sprinters are bad. That's not what i'm saying at all. But when things go wrong with the sprinter most mechanic shops will direct you to the dealer. Fedex may use sprinters but UPS and the Postal Service use Promasters there's a reason behind this.
I agree Don. If you take care of the Sprinters, getting half a million miles out of one shouldn't be a stretch. After all, it is a Mercedes under the Ram's head. And just to poke a little fun at Trent and Allie, the Pro Master is a Fiat (Fix It Again Tony).
I thought the problems with the diesel engines in general is to meet US fuel emissions, and somewhere around 150k miles it is a few grand in parts that need to be replaced. Yes most maint can be done at any shop that works on diesel engines, but the cost for diesel tuneups in pickup's is a lot higher then gas pickups, and when it is time to replace those sensors I would want to take it to a dealership. Typically your not going to hit that kind of mileage till it's a few years old, but buying one used just take it into consideration.
@@derykmacleod4979 My experience with diesels over the long run, being the life of gas vs. diesel; they come out to be about the same. Yes, diesels are more costly to repair and all have their weaknesses, Mercedes seems to be the EGR valve. The exhaust system you're speaking of on the Sprinters was a factory design ball drop for a few model years, eventually a factory recall that was late coming. The Cummings had the KDP (Killer dowel pin) that would fall out over time and totally destroy the timing gears, etc. CATASTROPHIC failure. Where the diesel shines is; it will outlast any gas engine (500k min for diesel vs. 300k for gas) and get better fuel economy when working with heavy loads. The gas engine is better for lighter work, small car and light trucks. Simply the diesel is a hard working engine that a gas can't hang with. So if you're dealing with heavy loads regularly, go diesel. Over the long run it will last longer and fuel costs will be about the same even though diesel fuel is higher.
Excellent, you just convinced me that Promaster is my choice. FWD was a huge point for me since I snow ski all winter but worried about reliability. I do plan on a lot of desert camping as well so will go with a taller wheel as wheel. Thanks for the excellent video.
I bought a new 2018 ram promaster 2500 and started to convert it to camper van and the reason i got the promaster is exactly the reasons you mention.
I looked at all the pros and cons of all of the vans and to me promaster was the winner its not perfect but it fits my needs.
Great video like always but miss Allie.
Take Care
Thanks Joe! Allie will be back in no time!!
Glad you liked your promaster too
I agree with you everyones needs are different and I'm not pushing the ram promaster on anyone.
My conclusion after many hours of researching was that the promaster fit my needs better than a transit or sprinter and the important points for me was exactly the same Trent pointed out on this video.
Thx Matt.
Take Care.
@Matt Crone This would be an interesting video for someone (or me) to make. I'm in a class c bens and my house batteries are not connected to the house batteries... what's up with that?!? So frustrating when I boondock more than I plug-in. I'm still learning, but this is another reason I'm thinking of downsizing into something that better fits my needs.
@@TrentandAllie
I once lived my four door sedan for about six months before getting an apartment near my work. So, the Express or Econoline vans would be an upgrade for me. Lol
I have no idea why I watched this whole video. I’m not buying a van. I’m not living in a van. Could. Not. Stop. Watching.
Yay!! That’s awesome!! Thanks for watching even if it was useless to you haha
I did the same thing 3 mos ago and I’m hooked on these two!! 😂
4:49 Mercedes Talk; 8:12 Transit talk; 10:55 Promaster talk. FWIW, I am 5'4" and can stand up in an unbuilt low top Promaster and, were it not for my tall hubby, I'd be rolling in one of those for the fuel economy....on balance, I'm happy with the 'trade-off'.
I'm about 5'5''. Did you have a little clearance in the promaster?
Bought one of the first Promasters in the US in 2014 and it has never let me down. For a long time, I was the only PM on the road.
This was so informative wow. As someone who is looking to get into Vanlife I'm really grateful that you put all of this information in one place for me in a very straightforward manner. This will definitely help as I look into which van will best suit my needs, thank you!
What little I know about vans I've learned from you. You're always articulate and clear, easy to understand. Well done. Again.
SO happy to help Eliza!! Thanks for watching :)
I know damnnnnnn I couldn’t get a clear answer from NO other video!!!!🙄🤷🏽♀️
Just a note on historical accuracy, the Ford Transit has been manufactured by Ford since 1965, it is the grandfather. The Sprinter was first produced by Daimler Benz (Mercedes) in 1995 as a counter to the Transit
MB L319 since 1955...
Wrong! The transit was a van the size of a Chevy Safari. Benz had huge vans way back.
@@techs8660 He's probably thinking of the Ford Transit VE6 model which began production in 1986 and looks strikingly like a dad or grandpa (low and high) model of the Sprinter TN1 (initial production date 1995)...so claims wikipedia. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Transit ; en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_Sprinter
Awh... How I wish that Americans used the metric system. I have never converted as many feet and inches in my life. Soon I will become comfortable enough with feet and inches and feel American lol.
As an American, I second that notion. It’s a major pain.
Lol....Nope...
We came damn close. I forget exactly when, but I'm going to say 50 years ago. It was proposed, and it looked like we were going to go metric. But, there were enough dunderheads even back then to raise a big stink about it. The proposal died a quiet death and now we're even more stuck with these weird units which are a pain to convert even amongst themselves much less with units of the rest of the world. On the bright side, just about every one of us is holding a handy dandy conversion tool in our hands. Meanwhile yeah, two sets of hex tools...
Saludos!
GeoMac Granddad Oh man!!!!
I wish the rest of the world used the non metric system.
I was pretty dead set on a sprinter Mercedes class but you made some very valid points about cost of repair
I went the route of an older class B. 2005 Roadtrek with low miles... for me definitely the right decision...
Great vid
Some great information but I wish you had shown some pictures of the vans you are describing.
Yes, I Really Want Information Butt I Say Butt I Do Like Visual To See To Take In w/Information!
If y’all don’t quickly look those up! He did the hardest part!
yes yes yes I was thinking the same thing but we appreciate the info
Visuals would have made me watch the whole video
Trent researches tons of info, Trent gathers aforementioned info, puts info into excellent comparison video in one take that actually wears him out. Trent answers comments which are all “We miss Allie!”
Thanks Trent great informative video especially w/o Allie being there😂
Just doing my best to serve our community!! Thanks for watching and giving me a laughable comment!! Thanks Stephen
Love our Promaster 3500 RV. One thing with all of them is that regular dealerships that don’t have a hoist that can lift these things hate working on them. Make sure you have a network of dealers with hoists.
Trent, I feel my best fit for now is a Chevy Express. I Work in the city and I have to live stealth. With that being said, I have to be able to blend in easily in my area. I park near 24 hour places like, McDonalds, gyms, Amazon, corporate places that have a lot of parking. When I was throwing my money away on rent, I only came home to sleep. So for now, this will work till I retire.
Sounds like its working out really well for you!
I am a service writer. Which means I take in your vehicles that have problems. I worked at Ford and the Diesels cost a fortune to repair. It doesn't matter what brand of diesel. They cost a lot in maintenance. The repairs are extremely costly. Diesel mechanics are hard to find. 100% agreed to stay away from a diesel engine. The maintenance alone can be up to three times more than other vehicles. Good video
Oh man we were just about to go and look at the Sprinter this afternoon as we want to build this winter, but after watching your video, you brought up some amazing points. Thank you for taking the time to do this.
Thank you for being our one stop shop for all of this. It's a pain but necessary task to decide which features of what each type of van are and how they do or do not meet one's needs. You save us so much leg work.
I already have since this August Im the happy owner of a Dodge Ram Promaster 2018 - 1500 - 136 wb and I love it. I started slowly converting it, 2weeks ago I found a cabinet maker to make the furniture. I’m looking foward to start living in it. I love your vlogs they are always interesting and fun Thanks Nat
Thank you Natalie!! That is so refreshing to get a nice comment like this :) really appreciate it and good luck with your van build :)
In the UK we have all used Ford Transits as work vans for years. I bought a new Transit and 10 years later it had turned to a heap of rust. A year later there wasn't any good steel left to weld to. The engine was great but I would never ever buy a Ford Transit again. All my friends that had Transits of a similar age rusted away within 8-11 years.
You are so right about Mercedes. They have unique, one-of-a-kind tools to do routine maintenance work. An owner cannot buy parts outside of Mercedes. I have seen this so many times at my car dealership... someone buys a used Mercedes for a great price, then they are hit with a $2,000 maintenance bill; and no one else can help because they don't have access to specialized "tools" to get the work done.
You Got Balls! Watch Your Back!
Super important info youre adding here, TY
I live in a Ford E-350, 1997, and absolutely love it. Sure, a high roof might be nice, but since I'm on the short side, over the past two years it hasn't been an issue, and certainly hasn't been an unhappy experience. I do get why many people wouldn't want to, but we're all different, and for some it's a matter of finances, which was my situation, plus due to RL issues, moving into a van very quickly was a must. That means I've been building while I live in it, which I honestly recommend, it gives you a very good idea of where things should be for you to be the happiest.
We purchased a Ford Transit 250 148" (I think)wheelbase with 3.5L Ecoboost mid-height in April. I am well along with adding a camper interior. It is functional now with hot water, electrical, bed/sofa and AC. I was thinking about posting photos on G+ but recently read that G+ is going away. Couldn't be happier with our choice made on the looks of the van, dealerships and we don't like the smell of diesel.
You did a nice review that should be helpful to some.
Thank you! I bet your transit is awesome!!
@@TrentandAllie We have watched a lot of TH-cam videos by people who have kindly shown what they have done. That is a big help when starting from scratch as we did. Our requirements are different in that we have a home and will not be living full time in the van and plan to use campground shore power or if need be, we purchased a HF 2000 watt Predator generator that could boondock if allowed. We now have a 30' class A motorhome that we plan to sell as it is much larger than we need. So we will not have to put in the expensive power systems that people that are living off grid need. However, our van is probably more stealthy than almost any as the only exterior features are a Maxxair fan on the roof and a shore power socket under the rear bumper that looks like a trailer hitch socket.
The Ecoboost Transits are pretty lively beasts. Way too much engine for a work van but I'm sure that's fun, even though the MPG is pretty nasty.
@@lorcro2000 I am being very careful with the build weight and will probably get close to double the 10 MPG that our class A gets.
Biodiesel smells better!!
Well, the important question would be, "What would Frank choose?" (WWFC?). Low jump in, swing out doors vs slider, best right front seat for dogs, does the window roll down so he can get some doggie head out the window sniffs, is there room for him between the 2 front seats to see squirrels or other gogs while driving, are the door panels dog proof plastic, etc.
Maybe someone should do a Frank tv mini-series or 60 minutes interview on "WWFC?" Could be groundbreaking journalism. Ya, I'd watch.
Haha that’s sounds like a great project!! We may have to do that!
6'4". Only one choice! Love my Transit. Don't forget you need to add ceiling and floor :)
Transit's are the option for tall people for sure!! Also the eco boost is sick!!
Yes gotta add for floor and ceiling!
We love our Transit too though it is a Coachmen not custom build. We are not tall and we don't have the Ecoboost but it handles amazingly well with plenty of pep and very comfortable.
That ecoboost has the best torque of any van! Awesome for off-road terrains, and I don't mind the elevated body. You never know what you could be scraping at the bottom if your ride is too low.
Wow! Thank you for spending the time to explain this.. I went and bought a 2000 fiat DUCATO 1.9 Tdl converted Motorhome because the risk of converting was too high.. but now, after a few months, I’m realising that perhaps the effort of converting would have provided an easier means of repair.. especially when the parts are no longer available
Yeah I can understand that! You may have made a good decision, depends on how it pays off.
I watched a video of all the new safety features on the 2019 Sprinter and they look amazing!
Do any of the other vans have safety features?? I would prefer gas over diesel though and Sprinters are expensive.
DISTRONIC PLUS is the adaptive cruise system from Mercedes-Benz which uses automatic speed regulation and proximity control to automatically keep you safely traveling behind the vehicle in front of you.
Active Lane Keeping Assist works to keep drivers safely in their lane when they unintentionally drift. The system makes small corrections to steering and braking.
Active Brake Assist works to monitor your vehicle’s surroundings in an attempt to stop a collision before it happens. In the event of an impending collision, the system can apply the vehicle’s brakes autonomously.
ATTENTION ASSIST works by learning your driving habits. When the system senses you may be fatigued it will first make minor safety adjustments and will then alert you to stop driving if necessary.
Crosswind Assist works to keep your vehicle stable during strong winds. The innovative system uses sensors to anticipate wind gusts and uses targeted braking to counteract the weight of the wind. This system is perfect for large vans like the Sprinter.
These are all really nice features to have for sure! I don't know of any other van brands that are including these types of features in them. These are also a lot of computer systems that can fail and cause problems that require Dealership servicing though!
You just can't have your cake an eat it too haha. When everything is working properly Sprinters have the nicest set up for sure but you pay for it as well.
Another option perhaps is you could install all those safety systems in your head and become a better driver. 🤔
Hands down the most helpful van life for newbies upload on YT.
Thanks a bunch mate
Holy smokes! Thanks for all the dirty deets! Sure gave us a new perspective. Promaster sounds pretty good. It's gonna be a hard pick to be honest. The Pro looks pretty cool. We hadn't looked into it yet. This whole vanlife idea is only a week or so old for us, but we are seriously obsessed now. SO thank you for all this info. We really appreciate it & will keep you posted what we go with! - Erin + Brian
The Ford Transit also comes with only front wheel drive next to the rear wheel- and all wheel drive. So this version also cones with a lower cargo floor and in conbination with the max height roof, you can use a trampoline and not hit the roof.
Personally I'd go for a Transit or a Transit Custom L2H2. But I'm still debating with myself all the time, so I've got time to choose.
Have a nice day
Go look and measure under the Promaster , Although it doesn't have a drive shaft they never dropped the floor that much , mostly a huge waste of space with cables crossing taking up space , that's the main reason why I passed on the Promaster
I went with the Promaster 159" high roof for the reasons you mention, and even though it's taking me a while to build it out, I love it.
Great minds think alike!! :)
As someone who just watches the videos and has never been in a van one could live in, I think a major advantage of the pro-master, which you hinted at (you mentioned the widths) but didn't state explicitly, is that it's possible to sleep across in them even if you're pretty tall. So the bed (especially if permanent) takes up 60" (for queen size, less if full size) of length rather than 72" for a bed which runs front to back. That's a lot of length in a small space.
I want to get a Promaster specifically for that reason. Now I'm just trying to figure out if I can fit everything I want into the 136" wheelbase, or if I have to get a 159".
The only thing that I'd like to add is that so far in my experience with my Sprinter the only time it needs a dealership repair is when dealing with the engine itself. I have had lots of other repairs so far since my Sprinter came very neglected and all were dealt with by my Nappa repair shop with parts no more expensive than for my Ford.
I agree that it's important to be able to stand-up in your camper van without hunching over. Since I'm 6'3", that immediately eliminated every option except the Ford Transit high roof. More options would have been nice, but at least it was an easy decision.
I think you offered a relatively fair comparison, although I think your readers should know that all diesel emissions systems from every manufacturer were problematic around 2009-2012. The Mercedes diesel emissions systems took on a lot of changes in the 2014 model year that has made them significantly more reliable. I would care not to own a pre-2014, to be completely honest. Also, people shouldn't be afraid to deal with Mercedes--I got a combination of $3,000 in rebates plus negotiated $4,200 off MSRP, which put the price well below what I negotiated on a Transit and only 1.2K more than the Promaster. I will be doing all of my own maintenance as they are pretty easy to service. The MB dealers do charge more for service, although I find parts to cost close to the same as my Toyota.
That's awesome man! If you can do the work yourself that could make a big difference!! I would change that timing chain every 40k miles so you don't end up with the $15,000 paper weight though!! That's just me being paranoid though!
@@TrentandAllie None of these vans are Toyotas, let's face it. Diesel vans have a complicated emissions system. The Transits have direct injection, which means they'll have valve deposits early-on. Our friend's Transit is having transmission problems. Promaster has rocker arm problems (google "treaded pentastar tick") as well as transmission issues. I decided that if I'm going to have a problem, I'd rather have to replace an external emissions sensor rather than a cylinder head or transmission. That's just me though. What we need is the Toyota of yester-year to make us a bombproof van! Hope to see you guys on the road sometime. -Ken
I really wish Toyota would get into the van business!! Little Toyota turbo diesel van or even better a hybrid van!! They'd make a killing!
Hey Ken. Can you speak to the timing belt statement made by Trent? I'm still on the fence (big time) about even going the van conversion route, mainly because of the cautionary tales of woe that I've heard/read from other van owners (from all of the main manufactures), and also, largely due to the fact that I am a lifetime Toyota loyalist, and I just can't wrap my head around the fact that I may have major mechanical issues on a relatively new van (I plan on buying new).
I've been doing my due diligence, and doing a crazy amount of research before I make the leap on purchasing a van, and so far (much to my wife's dismay), I'm leaning towards not doing a van conversion. I just can't quite imagine owning a vehicle that may leave me stranded, and penniless, because of maintenance, and mechanical issues. Once upon a time, like yourself, I could have done some of the work myself. But now (on a good day), I can maybe manage to change a flat tire. By the time Toyota jumps into the American market with a cargo van, I'll probably be watching your van conversion videos from a rest home.
@@gr8commission Ha, good read, gave me a laugh. I'll let Trent elaborate but what I think he is referring to is the timing chain that broke on Eamon & Bec's van (some other popular youtubers), which is a 200,000+ mile and 10 or 11 year old van with unknown service history. I can't speak to that, but I am seeing new MB vans from FedEx and overnighters running around my area that wouldn't be purchased by penny-pinching companies if they were *that* bad. Amazon just ordered 20,000 MB Sprinters.
I'm also a Toyota guy, so let's get this out of the way....all of these vans have their issues. I initially wanted a Promaster but was shyed away by the valvetrain problems of the Pentastar engine (google 'dreadead pentastar tick') as well as the transmission issues. After talking to people in my area that had them, including my USPS postmaster that drives them, these two powertrain issues are a matter of when, not if. Finally, a good friend has a business and a fleet of Transit Connects had to rent a Promaster because his vans were all in use and he needed one for a job, had the flexplate blow out of the transmission on his first day of having it. I set my sights on something else.
Transits I think are generally good, but with some new van teathing issues. Guibo joints, wet air filters and some transmission issues. I think Ford is dealing with most of those under warranty. Their engines are all direct injection, and as such will develop valve deposits over time. I would have more confidence in the powertrain of the Transit than the Promaster.
The red herring on Sprinters and any diesel van is the complication of the emissions system. There are a variety of pressure and NOX sensors that talk to each other and if everything isn't playing nicely, you can get the CEL. It's a bigger problem on the V6 diesels than the 4 cylinder, and I am really happy to have gotten a 4 cylinder version. Otherwise, the powertrains are good. A Mercedes mechanic friend says MB gas cars are only so-so, but their diesels are what Mercedes are known for and they are robust. If I'm going to replace crap, I'd rather deal with external exhaust sensors than cylinder heads and transmissions. I have a lot of confidence in this van, based on the glowing reviews by other owners. Quite frankly I wouldn't be as excited about a pre-2014 (due to the older and more problematic emissions hardware). Just my .02. You can read more on ourkaravan [dot] com.
I personally wouldn't let this hold you back too much. The van has fundamentally changed my life, getting me out more and allowing me to spend far more quality time with my daughter. After losing my 31-year old wife to cancer, life's too short, get out there.
SPRINTER SWAAAGG! Trent, dude, I was really hoping to hear your opinion at the end so I could read heated opinion comments. Thumbs up for serious effort and research here!
I'm sure they'll file in when people that love sprinters see the video haha!! Thanks though! I put a lot of work into this
You just saved me a ton of time. Thank you so much. You confirmed the way I've been leaning towards a Promaster. The only thing you could of done to make it better would be having Allie sitting beside you.
I agree!! But she was stuck in another country!! Glad the video helped you though :)
@@TrentandAllie She has personality plus on you videos. Anyway my story is my dad worked to age 83 and passed on one hour after getting off work. I was heading down that path until I saw yours and other videos. Now I plan on selling most everything. Getting a van a enjoy my last 30 years or so. You two are helping that dream to become a reality. So keep up the good work. By the way I'll be 65 in a few months.
@@gotgold4590 More power to you!! So happy to hear that we have this effect on people! I just believe in living life to the fullest and want everyone else to do the same!!
I’m 6’4” and going with a Ford E350 extended. Parts and mechanics everywhere, stealth, low profile, and can fit in nearly every garage. I will get a comfy chair on wheels to maneuver around the van.
Definitely not a bad choice! I used to drive an e350 ext when I was doing plumbing work. Was a trust vehicle other than they are notorious for gas gauge issues haha.
I have been living in a 2006 Chevy express for nearly 5 years and I am really OVER the 4’8” ceiling height!!
This video deserved a big fat like.
Ford Transit Ext Long 2017 with 3.7L dual turbo V6 Ecoboost. I bought this use vehicle in Feb 2018 for the price of $40,800 Canadian 15% taxes included. I have travelled over 20,000km since and the consumption has been fantastic for my expectation, 14L/100KM or 17 MPG, all refuelling recorded with Fuelly app. Fully converted, my vehicle weigh 3,610KG or 7,942 lbs. As always, thank you Trent for your informative videos. I’ll be bumming the slopes in Vermont and NH in Feb Mar 2019, hope to see you there. I have the Epic pass and will be on the hills for 3-4 weeks.
Dude that is awesome!! If I could put a eco boost in our promaster and make it 4x4 I think that would be the coolest thing ever lol.
@@TrentandAllie You mentioned some companies that may convert Transits to a 4 x 4, though it's pricey. Are you able to say which companies? THANK YOU For all the researching you did to present this. Most helpful!! And not boring.
@@elbee1290 I would not invest in making the Extended Long Transit 4*4 at its ass would be dragging its ass behind. The disadvantage as it is is that the rear end drag near the ground without rough terrain LOL... That vehicle is not for off-road driving. Trent was just joking on that subject. Yes, I like my vehicle even if it is tall and yes I can feel the wind gust when driving, but I'm at an advantage, I'm old, so I drive around 60mh LOL. On the other hand, I snowboard Double Black Diamonds, glades.
This video was awesome! Def needed this when I bought my van. I went with the Promaster 159 ext. And it was the best decision ever. Why promaster? Like you said it was the cheapest! We bought the van brand new, out the door for 30,000 with rebates. Has back up sound sensors, as well as a back up camera (not the best quality but gets the job done). And got an amazing warranty. Supposedly has the sharpest turning radius of all vans. And I'm so glad its lower to the ground making it easier to hop in. The funny part is that it was the last van I checked out. And truly turned out to be the best option for me. Especially for the length. It wansn't too long or too short, but literally perfectly in the middle. The sprinter was so expensive it was a joke. The sprinter got a redesign for 2019, it has been 10 years since it has been changed, and still the dealership wouldn't give me any deal, not even on a brand new 2017 Sprinter which they had tons of just sitting in the parking lot. Who wants to buy a new van already 2 years old for the same price as the newly redesigned version? And yes they are making a gas version. There is already like a 1-2 year waiting list for one. The sales guy at the mercedes dealership called me for 3 months trying to get me to come back. They try so hard to be cool and exclusive, and it is just not worth it for what you have to pay. Especially considering that you might end up hitting something, or someone hitting you, scratching paint or getting a dent. As for the transit, like you said it's the tallest option. But that's not always a good thing. I got caught with horrible high winds driving through arizona to California, that they recommended truckers to pull over bc they can easily tip over. I was scared driving my promaster - can't imagine having 10 extra inches on the top. I would have had to pull over. All in all, I'm so happy with my promaster. It's easy to drive. and even more enjoyable to drive than my Hyundai Elantra. Even though I dont have back windows, still very easy to drive. I know that the front and back bumpers are made of plastic pieces that can easily be changed need be, without having to change the whole bumper.
Yeah Go team promaster!! Glad its been serving you well.
I bought the PM for the width and general feel of the interior space. Mine is a 159" high top; got it for $25,900 with 6 months and about 10k on it. Transferable warranty. It's been perfect.
Rear windows are highly overrated.
Yay, I bought a used 2015 Ram Promaster hightop 136" wheelbase. I love the way it drives, it's just right for me (and I'm short, but I don't like low roofs!). Still doing a no-build build and excited about travelling (not on rough roads tho!). It's kind of odd in that it has a built in air conditioner/heater in the back that hangs from the ceiling, which I think I will leave in it vs removing it. We'll see. Anyway, happy to have it, and thanks a lot Trent for your video (which, intentionally or not, confirmed I made a good choice!).
hey guys, regular watcher here! (currently you just did the tiles on Terry!)....so something else to think about everyone. With the Ram Promaster being front wheel drive, if, like me, you live in Canada, and WILL be driving it in snow, once you build out? It becomes rear heavy, and you won't get traction in the front in the snow, with all that weight in the back (bed, garage, batteries etc). I would choose Ram first, but perhaps keep my fresh/grey tanks up front, and perhaps even my electrical up front? to distribute the weight well? Open shelving in the back, or "no door" storage with a high lip and use baskets to reduce rear weight? I've learned this from watching other vids from owners who had problems that lived in Canada....love you both missed the goats and dogsin this one!
hahaha- I'm 5Ft and can stand totally upright in a finished regular height Sprinter!
This is the first video I ever saw from you guys, it was in my recommended, and I had no idea you lived in your van, I just thought you were hanging out in a corner of your room, seated on the floor of a house, next to your bed and dresser, talking about vans because maybe you'd lived in one for a summer during a road trip or something. Then you started saying you owned this van, you knew people who live in that van, and I was like, wait, this is the inside of a VAN?! Impressive buildout! So then I binged your videos all day because I have the flu. And because vanlife is thoroughly appealing to me.
Glad you enjoyed the video and I’m flattered that you couldn’t tell it was a van 😊
Hi Tren. I do have the diesel Promaster that I'm converting and I have found an independent garage that will work on it. They have actually been far, far more helpful then any of the local dealers. It took a bit to find this shop but they've been great. They actually work on anything. They've been around over 60 yrs and have great techs.
You have found a diamond in the rough!! That's awesome! You're probably getting a reasonable rate from them as well!
May I have the name of the business please? I have looking into building one as well. Thanks so much!!!
Actually laughed at "standing is a luxury", but as we know from our RTT that is TOO TRUE. Awesome vid- thanks for the detail!
I've been agonizing for awhile which one I wanted to get. Always figured Sprinters were the way to go, but I think I've settled on the Promaster. Thanks for the video!
Hi All. I had a Promaster 150 high-roof and was not impressed. The cargo area was great and it had plenty of room for what I was using it for. I had all the options but the seats were terrible. They cannot be adjusted up or down and it feels like you are too high and dangling. This was a 2016. I sold it and bought a Transit just because of the seats.
Promasters offer a 6 way adjustable seat. It goes up and down, has lumbar support as well. They're a nice seat for sure. I had them in my first promaster. My second promaster has the regular seats and they are not nearly as comfortable. But you can always swap a new seat into the vehicle. I see it done all the time!!
Nice! I also felt like I was driving a delivery van sitting so close to the front of the vehicle. Good call on swapping!@@TrentandAllie
@@TheRealCheckmate I sold it for $3,000 more than I bought it. I bought it private party in Arizona. We don't pay sales tax on used vehicles if they are private party. The seats were uncomfortable and the 2015 didn't offer any tilt steering wheel adjustment and to my knowledge the new ones don't either. The guy I bought it from sold it for the same reason. I thought it wouldn't be a big deal either. Not comfortable at all. I made out pretty good.
It's a lot of info to digest but clearly done, thanks Trent. The width of the promaster is the decisive factor for me as you can fit a bed widthwise.
Yeah that's a huge plus!
Yeah, I am 6' and have a sideways full/double, whatever one calls it.
Lots of info.. Appreciate it. Watched it 2 times.
You sir killed it. Your all that and a bag of chips. Really appreciate all you both do for the community. I do think there will be more and more people living in vans or tiny homes in the future your ahead of the pack. Take of each other we love you both.
Thank you so much! So glad you appreciate our hard work!! 😊
I would love to see a Tesla cargo van. That, would be the ultimate off the grid.
Or an electric Transit. I won't do van life until the electric infrastructure is where it needs to be and non mechanical engined vans are a thing.
I bet Rivian will come out with one before Tesla. They got a boat load of money from Ford and Amazon to develop a delivery van
@@stablestoic1491 is that the only thing holding you back???
@@stablestoic1491 - You might be waiting awhile. Why not get a used van, practice building on that framework and boondocking with it, before jumping into vanlife in a new electric van? Go see Central & South America in it. Live your life. This way, by the time you come back to the US, you have all the experience you need and know exactly what you want & don't want. But more importantly, you'll learn your energy needs, like how often you need to recharge your batteries or get fuel. For me personally, I'd like to see a hybrid van, bc in life you never know where both might be necessary. Instead of gas first & then electric kicking in, Chevy has hybrids where it's electric first, and then the fuel engine kicks in after the electric is empty. Also, you want an engine that can provide enough torque and horsepower to get you out of sticky situation (like your tires stuck in a pit). And while electric has way better torque, Tesla and Chevy both have switched recently from AC induction motor to a Permanent-magnet motor on their smaller, lighter vehicles. The AC induction is far better on heavier load vehichles like weighted-cargo vans, which require higher-performance. So it's important to know what you'll be getting and if it'll be sufficient for off-road, off-grid terrains. Not all American roads are smooth, and there'll be times it'd be easier to drive up a rocky hill --- than to travel a longer route around it, which will eat away at your stored electric power. You think range-anxiety is bad on the regular roads? It'll be far worse in the boondocks. Unless you plan on staying put in your van, electric won't be ready for RVing or van excursions for decades.
You can always convert a van into electrical. Get a salvage electrical car and swap its power train into a van. A guy turned a gas propelled VW Passat into electrical and it is amazing.
Issue with Sprinters is primarily availability of fuel (becoming more difficult to get the recommended mix in certain parts of country). There is a reason Sprinter is delivering a gasoline-powered engine to the US. There is also a reason Promasters are growing in popularity.
Yup. Made all the same comparisons and came to the same conclusion as you. Ram Promaster, long wheel base, not extended...but I did want diesel and have changed my mind on that. Going with gas. 👍 Very helpful. Thx for all the hard work and info.
Thanks Tami! Great minds think alike!!
One thing you did not repeat enough; the extra 4" width of the Promaster (6' 1" vs 5' 9" on Ford and Mercedes) at bed level and it's significance in saving space. On a Full or Twin size bed, the length is typically 2' longer than the width. So, if you can run your bed in your van East/West (width wise) instead of North/South (lengthwise), you can save yourself about 2 feet of floor space measured North to South by running you bed East/West. Every extra inch in this width dimension is critically important when it comes to comfort when sleeping and you will need some insulation in those walls which will eat into this critical dimension even further. If you are starting with 69" or 5' 9", after 2" of combined insulation and wall board on each wall surface, you are down to 5' 5" for "stretching out" if building a East/West bed.
Trent maybe you can comment on the exact length of your bed in East/West format and with your 6' 1" of height, how have you adapted to sleeping in this space. I'm mostly a side sleeper so I don't use the full length of my 5' 10" body but if the space available to sleep is less than your height, I'm guessing stomach and back sleeping doesn't work to well.
This is a huge benefit for sure!! My bed measures 67” east to west because I built the bed into the insulation cavities along both walls. I’ll try to make a video about that in the future 😎🤘🏼
I raised the bed in our 2018 Transit to where the window bulge is and was able to fit a full size mattress 75" x 54" with 1" thick foam board on each side. I am not using wood or any other kind of paneling but am using primer and paint right on the aluminum foil. It has a pleasant texture that looks like I poached a couple white rhinos. Very happy with the results.
Jack, I wonder if the width tapers in quite a bit as you get higher on the walls? Trent says in the video the width is 73" and apparently his finished out width is 6" narrower at 67" or 5' 7". You found a spot where the width is 77" (75"+1"+1"). I'll have to check out your van build photos...thanks for the info.
@@timhardman4764 Tim, I checked the finished dimensions and the width is 74" between the foam boards at the top surface of the mattress. The mattress, 6" thick top surface is 29-1/2" above the floor (factory vinyl floor). The one inch thick foam boards are in a recess in the body (commonly used for side windows which we don't have). This results in the end of the mattress being about even with the foam board's inside surface. The foam boards are flat as I have used the small curve of the sides to provide a space for the reflective foil to bounce heat back toward the body and have sealed all around the boards edges to prevent transmission there.
As anyone knows that has worked with these vans, you have to fight for every square inch of space so I notched the mattress to fit around the rear door pillars so at the very back the length is reduced a few inches. Works out fine.
The sides are nearly vertical as the first foot or so is where they narrow an insignificant amount.
I have not posted any photos, which I hoped to post on G+ before I read that G+ is going away. This photo from Ford shows how the body goes in the window area:
www.ford.com/commercial-trucks/transit-cargo-van/gallery/
@@davidc.5054 Yes, I've seen those and they look like a good idea. A little over $1K for a pair uninstalled without windows. I did hear the windows, if ordered, are not flush on the inside and stick out (inside the van) and people bang their heads on them alot...just something to think about re; where to position the window mount inside the flare. Also the flares are tapered or angled so it's just a little space at first and then up to 5" at the end point on each side. Also it seems like the area to mount them is restricted so if you want a "high" bed so you can store tall gear in your "garage" under the bed, you maybe limited regarding just how high the bed can be where the flares give you adequate space for extending the area your feet and head can go. I wonder if the flares interfere with opening your rear doors all the way (270 degrees)? I think the taper allows the side slide doors to operate without modification. It looks like a great product but be sure you have bed height figured out before you order it and understand how getting the product with windows installed will effect your comfort. From what I know I would order without the windows and instead install windows higher up, above the flare pocket for cross ventilation if there is room above...otherwise install windows before or after the flare.
I'm looking at buying a Transit right now with a gas engine. It costs less than a Sprinter and can be serviced ANY where in NA! It's also "upgradable" to 4x4 if needed in the future with F-150 truck parts. Overall maintenance cost will be lower as the 3.7L is used in numerous Ford vehicles. One thing that I think most people may over look is the cost of a diesel engine. Fuel cost and DEF add up in a big way with little advantage in MPG. It's a trade off for a gas engine. It will require rebuild sooner but I think with proper preventive maintenance you can get a lot of mileage out of it and that cost is offset. Sprinters are really a commercial vehicle and in that environment a diesel is a must for the long daily grind of 500+ miles per day. Of course the ECO Boost is the torque king but if your not hauling cargo for a living do you really need that? With a properly built out van you should be no where near the payload cap. of these vehicles! Good video!
You'd be surprised at how much weight goes into these builds! Our Promaster weighs 9,000 lbs fully loaded.
Also, the more power you have the easier it is to move the vehicle around even if it's overkill. with that being said if i went ford I'd get the eco boost for sure.
No, not surprised at all.
you can get the ecco boost in the transit cant you?
this is one of the most informative and helpful videos I've seen on living in a van.
This was so helpful! I'm slowly working toward van life after I graduate, and this definitely helped highlight the difference between the vans. Thank you!
thanks Trent we will get a van in the near future, we have learnt so much from watching you guys, and will continue to follow you and Allie much love
Ruled sprinters out for me 100%. Ford Transits are by *far* the most reliable vans in Europe!
Glad to help! Thanks for watching
@@TrentandAllie Old Transits were great.. new Transits are the worst option in Europe, ive owned them, best all round for price reliablity has to be Peugeot, Fiat and Citreon, all same chassis with different engines. I Own the Peugeot brand and are very impressed, these vans take a real hammering, no real issues so far 👍👍👍
Some notes about the Ford Transit. I drive one for work and it works amazing, I've taken some tight turns in it and did some fast turns, it's the 5'11 roof height, it's pretty great, they only issues that I've ever noticed with the van is with the sliding door. Sometimes when you slam it shut, it'll slam back open. You have to slam it shut otherwise it won't close properly but you won't know until you're driving and turning left when a notification will pop up and say it's open. My door has done that numerous times but it's never flown open while driving. There was another van (exact same) the had issues with its door to where it wasn't closing properly at all but still stayed close... just not locking... I'm not sure the exact reason but it would stay close but it wasn't flush with the side of the van. I believe it's the longer wheel base but I'm not sure if it's the extended or not. If I do van life, I would definitely get a Ford transit but I would need the highest roof as I'm 6'4
As a small transport company we operate 4 x citroen/fiat/peugeot/promaster whatever you want to call them vans, our experience from this is mixed, our Citroen version has had limited issues, nothing too major, one of the peugeot has had 2 new gearboxes and needs a third, another peugeot needed a new engine at 60k miles that cost 10k pounds to replace, all the vans have suffered with electrical issues, airbag ecu failures, engine warning lights on, DPF filters constantly blocking and needing forced regen etc. Constant door hinge failures, they chew through tyres, i could go on and on. All in all these vans are low quality, cheap to buy but cost a fortune to maintain, in hindsight we should have spent more on better quality vehicles. Their all due for replacement soon and the only thing i know is we will never buy these vehicles again....
It’s great to have your opinion! Thank you
check for water leaking in the van... Water in the engine compartment and leaking on all the electrical is BS. Run a hose on the windshield and check out ... or go here and read up more info on it. If you want your van to last FIX IT SOON!!! A lot of vans have these issues... I believe most of the electrical / ECU / Bulbs, etc...etc... are due to water intrusion in the engine compartment and electronics. Good Luck... check out this link for more info.www.promasterforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=84639
Eric Potter our vehicles are professionally maintained with no expense spared as they are our livelihood. I do appreciate they will have a far harder life than a van used as a camper, it doesn’t change the fact these are built to a price point though and no where near the quality of a mercedes, its the old saying you get what you pay for, i have friends who run mercs in the same industry and have no where near the amount of issues we have doing the same job...and yes we are buying mercedes vans soon 👍
@@pineman10 Caveat emptor... no matter how much money you got... I say goodluck!
Yeah, the front wheel drive gearbox on the European ones is a bit of a question mark. I have no idea if they use the same gear in the Promaster, but they certainly don't use the same engine, they put in a much thirstier V6 in the states. Same with the Transit, for that matter, can't get it in the US with the super frugal eco diesel in the states. In Europe, you get 35 US MPG or over 40 UK MPG out of a high-top Transit. I'm not a fan of the Ducato. I don't like front wheel drive, I don't like the looks and I'm not convinced about the quality over time. But that's largely a personal thing.
I am a contractor, with experience on this engines and I definitely recommend Ford transit diesel, the best of all my vans
Yeah I assume the powerstroke diesel will be reliable and get the job done. But i've never even seen one in person! Everyone goes with the eco boost!
What kind of gas mileage do you get with that?
The voice of experience is valuable. It's obvious that you have given this a lot of thought.
I put days of thought into choosing our vans!!
Thank you so much! You answered exactly the right questions I had. I watched like 10 other videos and yours is the only one that gave such great info. Pro-master it is!
Nicely done, Trent! Great info for a lot of people! Thank you!
Thanks AhmaLyra!!
My husband and I are seriously considering life as nomads and I love the idea of living in a van like yours but he is a drummer. Don't think his drum kit will fit in a van! heehee
That would present quite the issue haha
Job well done Trent. I can't believe you did it in only 1 take. I'll bet that made you happy! Thank you very much.
well it was like 40 minutes long haha I had to cut it down but I did my best LOL glad you enjoyed it
I'd definitely get the van you and Allie have, or the Ford version. Mostly because all of the Mercedes Sprinter vans I've seen have had major engine issues requiring very expensive repairs, like a new engine or transmission, and have to dish out tons of money! No thanks. I'll stick with an American van which isn't as expensive to fix and easier to find a mechanic to fix in most big cities!!!
Exactly!! I have one friend who has had to put a engine and a transmission in their sprinter... Thats $22,000 in repairs!!! That doesn't make sense to me haha
Look what happened to Eamon and Bec and The Matneys. Both were stuck in other countries waiting weeks to get a new engine or transmission. Any country in North America and elsewhere you can find an engine for an American van much easier (since it is likely made there as well). They're easier to fix and much cheaper to fix! Thankfully my dad is a Master Ford Mechanic and retired automotive instructor, so I'd have no problem getting it fixed at home. Or elsewhere. For much less than a Sprinter. That is very important to me!!!
Wrong on both counts! The ram promaster is a rebadged european van & the ford transit is european and has been in production since 1967..
Thanks for justifying my purchase of the promoter extended. Finished a 6,750 mile mtn biking trip from NY to AZ, CO, UT, & NM. Van did great except for dirt roads with severe washboarding. If I lowered my tire pressures it would have been better. One suggestion, with all the numbers you mentioned some text in your video would have been useful. Just a quick summary sheet with dimensions and cost.
Yeah in retro spect i should have made spreadsheet that could compare the vehicles side by side. Next time i'll do this haha
Thank you so much. Saved a ton of work (on my end). Love you guys.
Having wanted a tiny house for a few years, I just realized that I really need more mobility and less gas money, so I'm seriously looking into van life now. Thanks for a really informative comparison!
Thanks Trent. I found this very informative and not at all boring. I can definitely see why you guys have the one that you do. Particularly the width since the positioning of your bed. I think since I'm a single individual - I could go with your model -with the regular length and go with a twin bed. I've been looking back-n-forth over the 3 - trying to obtain some of this info. Now I have it all right here. I think Ram oughta hire you . . . you make them shine in a "fair" comparison sorta way. And just fyi . . . you don't HAVE to yell at the cam . . . I actually had to turn down my volume.
I just get so worked up i start raising my voice haha. Sorry about that
If you aren't sure which size bed to put in, there are bed frames that pull out to make a full or queen if suddenly the need arises. Or you could put in a murphy bed over some other seating arrangement which could be changed in size if the twin doesn't work out. I'd rather have more room to move around or store things than have a luxurious bed.
15:10-15:32 Nailed it for me. No one talks about the possible “tipping-over” aspect🙄. He mentioned off-roading - but I’m thinking storms and high winds too. Thanks for putting that in!!
Aww, I’ll gently touch the like button since I think you did try hard 😂. Seriously though, this is one of the most informative van comparisons I’ve seen. Not just 2 vans pulled side by side, where the van layout plays a huge factor into what van people like. I’m super torn on what van we’d choose, But i think the pro master is the way to go for sure. But 4x4 is pretty important, so it would be hard to not have it. But the ease of working on the pro master and the repair costs are so small compared the the sprinter. My husband could basically do most if not all the work himself. Just wish the made a 4x4 option. One day maybe we will jump in (not as a permanent ‘house’, but some epic vacations in our off seasons on the ranch) but 3 small kids kinda puts a hinderance on that for now. No idea how we’d make a layout work....
You'd have to do big bunk beds and sleep like sardines haha. It's rough with that many people!!
Trent & Allie haha, ya pretty much. They are only 4 and 3 (twins), right now, so they can fit in a lot smaller places but still I think it would be crazy tight. But since it would be more for like long vacations (like travel across Canada for a month type thing) and not so much stealth camping, maybe some sort of bunk situation with a bathroom and small kitchen but cooking mostly outside would work. No idea what that would look like thought. But motorhomes/trailers are pretty inconvenient in lots of ways to travel with which is why we don’t really want to do that. Anyways Maybe we will have to wait 18 years and go when their gone. Lol
My parents fit a family of 5 inside a van to sleep when I was growing up. Seats folded to a bed, parents slept there. My older sister slept under their heads across the van. Just sleeping bag on the floor. Kids don't need mattresses. Little sister was in her playpen between drivers seats and the main bed. And me? Oh I definitely had the absolute BEST spot of all. I slept in a hammock that hooked above the front drivers seats. It had metal hooks that clipped over the metal ridge that went above the windows. Loved that perch, best views.
This was the 1964 and on, with 7 year age diff from youngest to oldest kid. No seatbelts or carseats back then though. Little baby sis was in the playpen while driving too. We used that van which had a fold up table, and a little icebox and I cant' remember if there was a sink. Coleman stove cooked outside. When we couldn't fit in there to sleep we had a tent, but many times just slept on the ground under the stars. One time in the tent it rained too hard, My dad took us into nearest town and mom took us to a movie, and my dad took down the campsite by himself in the rain. God I miss him. Very rarely we would get a cabin, and once a houseboat which was awesome. We had a couple of little boats we'd put on top sometimes.
I was an idiot and married a guy who doesn't like camping.
Recovering Soul wow, awesome memories! My mom remembers camping much the same, the 4 sisters and their parents all in a little camping van. Hard to do these days. We usually take tents but having a van would be amazing and so much more versatile.
@@kristawheale8785 It deffinately instilled a love of nature in me. As an adult the only way I could go camping was to tag along on my sons boy scout trips. Backpacking camping, summer camp, whatever I could do. We climbed Mt. Whitney when I was 50. Amazing memories and for me at least, a once in a lifetime experience. I made it to Assistant scout Master before he outgrew it. I got some great photos of a Black bear and her cub. Just right on the trail in front of me. Woooow. As a kid we would catch lizards and frogs, and always lots of fishing.
Not all to sure but I like The Dodge Pro-master or Ford transit. I saw the Ford tonight tonight. Yes it was tall being used as an ambulance the driver liked it a lot, I asked him.
I like it because It Gas ⛽️ expensive Diesel and The other required Fluids to clean up the fuel? Another obvious benefit is “Easy to get parts and they are Cheeper.”
We had a VW Realita once it was $89.95 for a gas cap. That wasn’t all. Every time we had work done on it Wow it was expensive. That was a German Built Great RV But you had big repair Bills
So later We got a
Ford Pleasure Way Excel.
That has been an All around Excellent RV
Thank you for this video!! I was pretty sure what I wanted, but having the big three compared totally made up my mind. Just an extra tidbit for you, oil changes for the Sprinter are upwards of $350.00. A bit rich for my blood. I’m going to go with the Ram Promaster 159 extended web. My only other question is what is the difference between the 2500 and the 3500? No worries if you don’t reply, I’ll just have to do some more research. I am a big Trent and Allie and Frank fan, I love your videos. Cheers!
The 3500 can carry a little more weight 😊
Great video. Just to mention that a diesel based Sprinter or Ducato are the best options if you plan to travel around Latin America. Support for those are available just about in any country in America. And I very much agree that the extra inches in the ProMaster (Ducato for us) width makes all of the difference.
Thank you for the information all in one place. I am currently saving and shopping for a van in one of these models. I am trying to decide between the Promaster and the Transit. I am short enough to get by with the Med roof on the transit. I will be looking at all the comments you get also; more information from your subscribers because you have the smartest group. Thanks.
Thanks Maggie! Happy to help with some facts! If you want a short van I'd go with the transit but if you want a long van go with a promaster.
Pro. M. Lower and wider. Thanks for the information.
Wow! Trent , that was a "van load" of detail! So much work on your part. So yes, gold star for this video. And I'm not even looking for a van so not sure why I watched. Lol.
Haha That's awesome!! Thanks for sitting through my boring info spilling rant haha. Glad you enjoyed even if the info is useless to you ;)
I like this guys style no nonsense straight to the points.
I'm considering an E450 cut out with a cargo body to solve the width issue. Two years till retirement. Truck camper will work fine till then.
That would be cool!! I could dig that for sure
We have a Winnabago Trend on a Dodge Promaster FWD 159" Wheel Base. with a V6 none turbo. I think were around 10'6" tall and 8' Wide, Winnebago built this Fibreglass Body on the Promaster Frame behind the seats. Winnebago Our Promaster is a V6 gas engine with automatic 6 speed, you can manually shift ot the other way leave in Drive. The rims are from a Puegot Truck but it is a 225/70R/ and it is fwd so make sure you install All Terrain Drive, we put 8,000KM on the old smooth tires then threw them away and installed the All Terrain Drive, also were averaging 14 to 16mpg the higher mpg we have to have the best driving conditions. The Promaster Chassis sits real low to the ground I would like the rear to be a wee bit higher, were happy owning it.
Great fact-finding Data in a short period of time. -Thank You!
A really great video, Trent. Doesn't go into too much details, and hits the high points for comparing using one of these three base vans to build a home away from home. I know this wasn't the thrust of it however, but irrespective of the fact you have restricted your talking points to "new" options, the fact is that all of them represent a cost point that many people wishing to live full or part time in a van simply cannot afford, both from a build as well as maintenance issues. So, for those out there that still feel that the costs associated with any of these options is beyond their reach, I feel that I must point out that, and again, realizing that this is basically off point, I must say that I feel the option of buying a built class B extended roof (and potentially widened for that matter) older V-8 powered low mileage and well cared for Ford, Chevy, or Dodge class B RV built in North American is the best option overall. These all have mechanically proven drive trains that not only have been designs refined to a virtual bulletproof level over decades, but, parts and maintenance/repair costs are both going to be substantially, or even extremely, cheaper here in the USA. Used and aftermarket parts are readily available for them, and everybody from backyard mechanics on up can work on them as well. Sure, your gas mileage will probably suffer in comparison, but power available will not be an issue, and even after factoring in the increase cost of fuel, given how much you can save from choosing this option, does not come close to leveling out the cost savings overall. Just saying, amigo.
Thanks for this info - very helpful. I have questions about several things and I haven't found any of your You Tubes to address them. 1. Insuring a van, especially after modifying it yourself, and how you do that from life on the road. 2. Are warranties changed/nullified after van modified. 3. Do you have a leveling system. 4. Does the ProMaster have a lower ground clearance, and if so have you had any problems. 5. Do you have any van builder recommendations in Southern California. If you have You Tube videos for these I'm happy to go to them.
Hey Leli!
1. We insure with geico and use a mailing address in Utah
2. Some manufacturers will void warranties for modification that is " not the manufacturers intent"
3. we have air bags in the rear to prevent suspension sag
4. it may have a slightly lower ground clearance but it has never been an issue for us
5. I know 40 hours of freedom is building vans in San Diego Also San Diego camper vans does them.
Thank you! @@TrentandAllie When is your eBook coming out?
@@TrentandAllie Hey Trent! Going to look at a low roof 136WB Promaster tmrw. I'm 5'5" and my partner is 5'8" and we live in Chicago and will be static most of the time so trying to be as stealthy as possible with the low roof. I want to ask did you get the rear suspension air bags installed at a dealership or an RV mechanic? How much did they run you?
Did them myself, they were about $600
That's awesome you're going to check out a van!! good luck
Hopefully within the next month or so! It's being edited now.
Thanks for putting all the stats together not agreeing on one thing how 5'9" or 5"10 would be okay with a roof at 6 foot or slightly less. Sure as long as you lost nothing to flooring or ceiling build out.
The back round reminds of a locker room at an ice skating rink!
I have been starting to pull details together about the Sprinter and the ProMaster. I know a Ford Mechanic that told me NOT to go for the Transit, so my list has come down to 2. I have been leaning towards the ProMaster and found your talk to be well put together with the facts. Thank you Trent.
Glad to have been of some help Brooke!! I think the ford mechanic probably only sees the worst and never the best but I think the Promaster is a great option.
it would be good to hear about approx gas mpg
Our Promaster 1500-based RV gets around 14mpg overall and 15mpg on trips. It's loaded and heavy and we drive up in high mountains often BTW.
Great video and thanks for all the details. It's also worth mentioning that the super high top Sprinter has no roof rack option and a roof loading weight of 0kg. I.e, you can't put anything on the roof. So, although you get the height, if you were planning on installing roof solar panels, the super high top roof isn't really an option. I don't know if this is the case with any other brands and makes of super high top roof vans, but it's definitely something to bear in mind!
Thank you, Trent, for doing all that research! 🤗🌈
Lots of great information...I know more about vans because of you! Thanks for that..Had no idea there was so much available.
Great video! I’d love to see a comparison of the Promasters 1500 vs 2500 vs 3500 when used for a van conversion. Thanks.
That would be interesting!! I'll have to try and get some people together to make this happen!
I looked them all over before I decided to buy a Sprinter. Allot came down to fit and finish, the Promaster is a Fiat built in Mexico, the Transit is a Renault assembled from parts built from all over the world, the Sprinter is a MB built in Germany. Ive put180k Miles on my 2014 Sprinter, no more problems than you would expect from any other rig. I rest my case.
Hey Trent & Allie (well Trent)!!! You are always providing helpful information. We appreciate you for taking the time to explain all of these comparisons. The ProMaster still wins (for me). Be SAFE out there and Thank you for sharing. 😎😁
Thanks John!! Always like your comments my man! Take care
You are quite welcome Trent. You take care as well.
Great video, thank you for the info!
You are misleading people on the sprinter. A diesel motor can be worked on at any place that services diesel motors. I have yet to go to the dealer for basic services other than warranty work which was for a def fuel heater. In my opinion. You get what you pay for. I have not had any issues with my 2016. Not only will the sprinter get better gas mileage but it will be around way longer than any of the other vans. There is a reason you see fed Ex with sprinters. I’m just saying....
Not all sprinters are bad. That's not what i'm saying at all. But when things go wrong with the sprinter most mechanic shops will direct you to the dealer. Fedex may use sprinters but UPS and the Postal Service use Promasters there's a reason behind this.
I agree Don. If you take care of the Sprinters, getting half a million miles out of one shouldn't be a stretch. After all, it is a Mercedes under the Ram's head. And just to poke a little fun at Trent and Allie, the Pro Master is a Fiat (Fix It Again Tony).
Black Hawk International Security lol good one ! I’ll have to remember that
I thought the problems with the diesel engines in general is to meet US fuel emissions, and somewhere around 150k miles it is a few grand in parts that need to be replaced. Yes most maint can be done at any shop that works on diesel engines, but the cost for diesel tuneups in pickup's is a lot higher then gas pickups, and when it is time to replace those sensors I would want to take it to a dealership. Typically your not going to hit that kind of mileage till it's a few years old, but buying one used just take it into consideration.
@@derykmacleod4979 My experience with diesels over the long run, being the life of gas vs. diesel; they come out to be about the same. Yes, diesels are more costly to repair and all have their weaknesses, Mercedes seems to be the EGR valve. The exhaust system you're speaking of on the Sprinters was a factory design ball drop for a few model years, eventually a factory recall that was late coming. The Cummings had the KDP (Killer dowel pin) that would fall out over time and totally destroy the timing gears, etc. CATASTROPHIC failure.
Where the diesel shines is; it will outlast any gas engine (500k min for diesel vs. 300k for gas) and get better fuel economy when working with heavy loads. The gas engine is better for lighter work, small car and light trucks. Simply the diesel is a hard working engine that a gas can't hang with. So if you're dealing with heavy loads regularly, go diesel. Over the long run it will last longer and fuel costs will be about the same even though diesel fuel is higher.
Excellent, you just convinced me that Promaster is my choice. FWD was a huge point for me since I snow ski all winter but worried about reliability. I do plan on a lot of desert camping as well so will go with a taller wheel as wheel. Thanks for the excellent video.
I agree with the comfort of the high top aspect completely!
It is a MUST!! haha
This is so awesome. Thank you so much for compiling, organizing, and sharing this info!!! 🎉