Step Van for the Highway

[blackheartengineering]

Hello,
Total newbie for the forum - so please excuse my lack of knowledge.
I am looking to do a special purpose build for my band (regional touring), and then, after my wife says I'm through with that.... convert it to live in while we do a bit of van life retirement.
My question is, I plan on taking an 18' Step Van, use the back 5' for equipment storage, another 7' for 6 bunks, then I'll have roughly 6' for some captains chairs and windows before the door and the cockpit.
I've been eyeing some Frito-lays step vans for 4BT engines.  
I don't think that weight will be a huge issue b/c we don't travel with PA and Lights and staging, etc.  The gear is pretty light.  But my concern is freeway speeds.  Does anyone have experience with really getting a loaded step van our on the highway, at 60-70 mph, for days at a time?  I'm sure a lot would depend on the gearing.  I plan on replacing the stock driver seat with something nice and insulating the crap out of the inside - so please - this isn't about comfort or noise - this is only about if the van can actually be driven daily at 60+ mph to go up and down the west coast of the US.
Thanks - any info would be appreciated!!

 

[highdesertranger]

Welcome Blackheart 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. We look forward to hearing more from you.

66788 is a member here that has a step van with the 4BT. Seven is another member but I believe his is a 6BT I would PM them and ask them. please have them post here so we can all benefit from the answer.

highdesertranger

 

[Gr8ful]

4BTs are great ebgine. I have a 6BT & love it. Good luck!