finding a van - how?

[hikerjohn]

HI. I have been following Bob, the RTR and many other blogs and videos. I am looking for a conversion van already built. How could I find one for less than $9,000 and fewer miles than 100K? I don't need plumbing but would love a high top. Perhaps a Chevy or Ford van? Any ideas?

Hiker John

 

[Ddbtjean99]

In case you haven't that much luck you might try checking with government agencies about what happens to their replaced vehicles. You might find a high top cargo van with some cooling/elect/shelving.

 

[graeme]

Hi My own experience was to buy a 2012 Ford Connect Cargo van for $8500 with 93k and get a carpenter to build a bed for $80. After some carpeting, camping stove etc I was good to go. The pre 2015 Connect have a higher ceiling so though not standing room they do feel roomy.

 

[highdesertranger]

Welcome John to the CRVL forums! To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips, Tricks and Rules" post lists some helpful information to get you started.

Most of our rules boil down to two simple over-riding principles: 1) What you post should provide good information (like your introductory post), and 2) Any response to someone else's post should make them feel glad they are part of this forum community.

We look forward to hearing more from you.

highdesertranger

 

[Qxxx]

try cargurus.com for your local area.

 

[crofter]

try cargurus.com for your local area.

Ditto. I looked online at the fleet sales, where I found mine. Went over there and I knew it was the one, and had some warranty left. Happily ever after.  -crofter

(Did the build DIY method, was a blank slate when I got it)

 

[eDJ_]

It would seem that by now some enterprising carpenters & cabinet makers would be teaming up with used car dealers who
often buy Fleet Vans when they are retired from service.  They may only build them out with insulated walls and ceilings, plywood floor and provisions for a bed and sell them at that stage.

In this these tradesmen could employ their sons/daughters to help and learn.

In the 70's there were Van Magazines many of which featured DIY patterns one could buy for their make of Van and with a few simple tools & materials build the Van out.  They also featured ad's for starting a small side business to fit them out for those who don't have the tools or skill sets. 

I would think anyone in this business today could make a few bucks.  In the 70's it was a different Van Cult than what it would be today where people want to travel and live out of their Van's.   I would imagine anyone wanting to do this would
build their own Van out and use it as a sample of what they could build.