Need advises on buying and converting a van!

[m4gnus]

Hi everyone<br /><br />I am a 24 year old guy from Denmark, and from february I want to buy a van in the USA that I can live in for about a year. The first six months I will be traveling around the USA, but also live in Michigan where my friend lives. I will travel around and take photos. The next six months I am going for a semester at the university of Missouri, but as I am studying photojournalism, there will be a lot of projects in that time too, so I still want to live in the van, so I can always go out and do stories and have a plays to sleep.&nbsp;<br /><br />My concerns are many, but first of all, I need to find a van. My budget is all in all no more that $8000, but I prefer cheaper than that.&nbsp;<br /><br />First I thought I could easily buy one that was already converted, but now it doesn't seem so easy, as I really want it to be stealth. That is very important for me.&nbsp;<br /><br />I want it to have a small fridge, a microwave oven and a bed that sleeps two people my size (I'm 6,4). That's all. Of course storage space, and it would be so nice if the seat next to the drivers seat could be turned around, so you could maybe create some small foldable table or something, and sit there with computer. But I don't want sink.&nbsp;<br /><br />As I come from Denmark, I don't have any tools or any place where I could convert the van, so I was actually thinking, if I could maybe pay someone to help me convert my van. Maybe someone from this forum who have experience in it? It would be win win, as you could earn some money, and I could get my van exactly as I want it.&nbsp;<br /><br />What van do you think would fit me? I want the layout to be with the bed in the rear end of the van, so the van has to be 6,3 or 6,4 wide.&nbsp;<br /><br />Power is important to me, as I would use computer a lot for my projects and school, but I would buy all materials, batteries and so on, if just someone would help me build it all in the van.&nbsp;<br /><br />What do you say, is this a crazy idea?&nbsp;<br /><br />Thanks for reading. This is a really nice forum <img src="/images/boards/smilies/smile.gif" border="0" align="absmiddle">&nbsp;<br /><br />Best regards,<br />Magnus

 

[akrvbob]

I think you are going to need to buy a Class B, which means it comes from the factory already converted into an RV. No American van comes from the factory 6'4' across. They will all be less than 6'. But, like you said, it will reduce your stealth ability. <br /><br />The only exception is a box van which has a van nose and a big box in back. They are usually 8' feet wide and 12-16 feet long. Another exception is a Step van which is usually the same size but has flat sides and nose. They would both work really well for you. But unless you find a diesel step/box van they get poor mpg. They have outstanding stealth unless you park in a residential area, then they have very poor stealth.&nbsp; here is an example:<br /><br />http://www.uhaul.com/TruckSales/<br />https://www.truckpaper.com/list/list.aspx?ETID=1&amp;catid=290&amp;bcatid=27<br /><br />Bob<br /><br />

 

[m4gnus]

Hi Bob

Thanks a lot for your answer. I can see how it is a bad idea turning the bed like that. I guess I should make it in the side instead, just as you did for that lady (I would just want it to be wider, so it can fit two people). As I don't need much space, other that for a little table solution I can use while sitting in one of the two front seats, and a small fridge (and of course storage space and so on), I think that's a better idea. Do you think a van could fit that? I want a van the most, not rv nor truck. I would really love it to have a high top, as I am
So tall.
Do you have a suggestion for a van? I've looked a lot around, but it's a jungle.
Thanks again!! <img src="/images/boards/smilies/smile.gif" border="0" align="absmiddle">

 

[Les H]

Hi Magnus, welcome to the forum. What you are asking for is certantly possible. The biggest issue is that there are as many ideas of what an ideal vehicle and layout are as there are members here. I know we have some Midwest members that could help you with your build, though I think if speed of build is a concern, the class B that was previously mentioned is a good idea. Also, Mabye look in our classified section, as well as the conversion threads. Someone recently posted a completely converted 2002 chevy G30 for $4995 with 157000 miles in good shape. A deal like that doesn't stick around long though.

 

[m4gnus]

Thank you for your reply too! I know it's such a big question, the thing is just that I know nothing about cars/vans - especially not American.
I someone has some examples of vans in my price range that are stealth and with high top and around my price range (I guess $4-5000 maks without conversion and $7-8000 converted)?
Do you think it takes a long time to convert it? I guess it could be done in a couple of days if you had bought all materials and so on, no?
I really appreciate your answers. This is my dream <img src="/images/boards/smilies/smile.gif" border="0" align="absmiddle">

 

[VanLifeCrisis]

Strange, Im 6'4 and i can lay down across the back of my van (1990 chevy g10), straight as a board.&nbsp; It doesn't have insulation and paneling it in yet but if you go a little diagonal or bend your knees a little I bet you would be fine even after that.&nbsp; In the apartment I sleep on a bed shorter than I am but i curl up at night anyway, my feet rarely hang off the end.&nbsp; Guess it depends how you and your partner sleep.<br /><br />Im wondering, when do you plan on coming over?&nbsp; Before you buy the van?&nbsp; I know some people who bought one before they came but this could be risky.

 

[Les H]

mangus, heres an example being sold by a fellow vandweller on a neighboring site: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/VanDwellers/message/163982

 

[akrvbob]

Magnus, American vans come in two lengths, normal and extended. You will want to try to find an extended van because they are longer. Normal vans are about 10 feet from the back of the drivers seat to the backdoor. Extended vans (sometimes called 15 passenger vans) are usually 12 feet from the drivers seat to the back door. For two tall people your best bet is to make the entire back 7 feet of the van into a huge bed. As long as you get an extended van, that still leaves you with about 5 feet of wall space behind the drivers seat to build a floor to ceiling shelf unit, that's a lot of storage and organization! Use plastic organizers for storage under the bed.<br /><br />Here we have an internet site called craigslist.org that is your very best way to find a van. You can do a nationwide search using key words like "ford extended van" or "chevrolet 15 passenger van" If you search for "converted van" you are more likely to find vans with a high top. You can also search eBay motors.<br /><br />When you find one you might want to buy, get the VIN number and do a CarFax search on it. If you still might want it ask if he will take it do a local dealer for a mechanical inspection. Then you call the local dealer and set up the appointment and pay with your credit card. If it's a Ford van, call the Ford dealer, if it's a Chevy van, call the Chevy dealer. You will pay more at a dealership, but the seller will be more comfortable with it and you are certain of truly knowing the condition of the van. The dealer will email you his report. If you are satisifed, send a deposit on the van and buy tickets to the town nearest to the van. <br /><br />Hope that helps. Bob

 

[m4gnus]

Thank you for all your replies, I really appreciate it.&nbsp;<br /><br />Les H: How can I see the van for sale? If I log on, it says I am not a member of the group and asks for my e-mail, but I don't get an e-mail back with the verification link in ? Can I see it somewhere else?&nbsp;<br /><br />DazarGaidin: I'm not quite sure if I would like to always have to bend my legs, but I don't know.&nbsp;<br />I'm coming over in february. I am planning on buying the van after I come over. I will stay in Michigan, but I can go whereever to buy the van, if it's the right one.&nbsp;<br /><br />Bob: Thanks for all this information, it really helps. I have seen those extended vans, and I must say that I would rather just have a normal one. I really think they are too long, it's almost like a bus - I would rather have a compromise and buy a smaller one. Is it really not possible to get just 6,2 or 6,3 ft. in width inside a van? Or maybe just make the bed 4,6 ft wide and 6,5 long and then use the little space in the side as a shelf and save the last 3,5 ft. behind the drivers seat? 4,6 ft would be a fine size in width for my bed, it could easily fit me + girlfriend (she isn't as big as I am, ha).&nbsp;<br /><br />Would a passenger van with high top and all the windows have good stealth?&nbsp;<br /><br />Thanks again!&nbsp;

 

[VanLifeCrisis]

Maybe you have to have a yahoo email...i got in with my yahoo email right away after signing up....<br /><br />If this isnt ok to post, just edit mods..from the link above:<br /><br />

2002 Chevy Express G30 Heavy Duty<br /> Mileage: 157,000<br /> Condition: Good for a 2002<br /> No mechanical issues!!!!!!!<br /> Completely customized for on the road living by a professional contractor!<br /> Fully insulated and finished inside.<br /> Fantastik Automatic Roof Vent/Fan with temperature and rain sensor.<br /> Fully wired for 110V AND 12V, lighting and outlets.<br /> 2 Optima Blue Top Batteries<br /> Solar Panel mounted on Roof � great off the grid living!<br /> Inverter<br /> 30-amp RV plug � Plug in at a campground or in your friend's driveway<br /> Cabinets<br /> Sink with hand pump (7 gal. fresh and gray water tanks)<br /> Eco Foam Twin Mattress on platform across the back.<br /> Space for storage bins under bed.<br /> Fridge/Freezer mounted on platform.<br /> Safe - mounted and discreet. Protect your valuables!<br /> Safety cage behind front seats.<br /> Tinted side and rear windows.<br /> Trailer Hitch<br /> PRICE: Only $4,750 Cash or Certified Check<br /> I have been living in this van while working at Rennaisance Festivals for the<br /> past two years. The set up is great. There's a storage spot for a toilet or<br /> spackle bucket toilet. Counter space for a microwave. One neat little set up<br /> and a lot of fun. Regular maintenance since new. This was my family's<br /> electrician van. Maroon color. Current Registration, Insurance and inspection<br /> in NJ. Email for photos and more info! Figsk8r att net

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[m4gnus]

Thanks. Wow, this sound exactly like something I am interested in - does anyone have an idea about how often vans like this is on sale? And for the same price?&nbsp;

 

[Les H]

not often! an 02 van WITHOUT the camper mods sells for about $7000 or more here in Chattanooga, Tn

 

[Simran]

I had my bed across the back of my G30 and it just drove me nuts. I nearly broke the screen out of the window in my sleep. Had the bed been wider <br />iI would have been OK but it could only be so wide because of a wall built into the van permanently. I finally moved it back to the side of the van. <br /><br />gus

 

[akrvbob]

I don't believe any american van will let you sleep across it since you are 6'4". A bed 4'6" on the side would work really well. It might be a little narrow, but all the reason to snuggle more!&nbsp; If it were me i would put the bed on the passenger side and build a shelf unit all along the drivers side of the van. The first 3.5 feet would be wider than the last 6.5 feet. <br /><br />High-top conversion vans with the windows are fairly common so they have good stealth. <br /><br />If you find your van out west, you are welcome to buy it fairly close to me and drive out to my camp and I will help you build it out inside. I carry all the tools we will need. All you have to do is buy the materials. If you aren't a woodworker I will show you how to do it and lead you through doing it yourself. If you know when you are coming I can give you an idea of where I will be. If you are coming in the winter, I will be a days drive from Phoenix, AZ; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles, CA (all of Southern Cal). I can almost guarantee you can find a good van in that many people. Bob

 

[LAguy]

Arkvbob sounds super-cool and very generous. &nbsp;This site is very helpful in so many ways. &nbsp;Thanks.<br /><br />