Taking the first step

[wilbwil]

Decided a couple of months ago that I am ready to give up the condo life and hit the road.  I won't be actually hitting the road for another 10 months but I have started the process. I have sold and given away a lot of my belongings and have begun getting my condo ready to sell.  I have also started to save and am following a strict budget.  It is amazing how much you can save when you have a goal in mind. I used to buy crap I didn't need just to add a bit of excitement to my life.  I'm done with that.  I will also be selling my beloved Tacoma to purchase a van to convert. I will have the van converted into a 4x4 before I start working on it. My goal is to be on the road by Sept 1, 2017.  See ya'll out there.

 

[cyndi]

Wilbwil! Welcome to the CRVL forums! Lucky you! You have time to plan and save. We'll enjoy following your journey to simplicity and new life.

To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips & Tricks" post lists some helpful information to get you started. We look forward to hearing more from you.

 

[jimindenver]

Welcome and I hope you get a good deal on the condo.

 

[WriterMs]

OH boy... you're going to have a lot of folks watching what you do to convert whatever van to a 4x4. I'm sure you'll keep us posted with pics once you buy the van... right?

 

[rvpopeye]

Welcome aboard wilbwil!
Happy Trails

 

[wagoneer]

Welcome, going with a Sportmobile will be costly and include pitfalls just a heads up maybe just get an ATV in a trailer I was tempted with the Aluminess bumper rack and swing out this and that, but the expense knocked some sense into me. You need to follow your dream I understand that perhaps look for an already converted van good luck

 

[wilbwil]

Welcome, going with a Sportmobile will be costly and include pitfalls just a heads up maybe just get an ATV in a trailer I was tempted with the Aluminess bumper rack and swing out this and that, but the expense knocked some sense into me. You need to follow your dream I understand that perhaps look for an already converted van good luck

Agreed.  Definitely pros and cons and to be honest I have changed my mind several times.  I may end up going with a 2 wheel vehicle.  Fortunately, I have plenty of time to do research.

 

[highdesertranger]

well if you haven't made up your mind I say don't do it. if you want a 4x4 buy a factory 4x4. somewhere someday you will be glad you did. highdesertranger

 

[wilbwil]

well if you haven't made up your mind I say don't do it.  if you want a 4x4 buy a factory 4x4.  somewhere someday you will be glad you did.  highdesertranger

Yeah, just got a reality check. Conversions cost is too much to justify and I know it can cause problems later down the line.  Now, i need decide between a high top transit van or a regular cargo van. Any input would be appreciated.

 

[Almost There]

There's a third choice too...just to make it more confusing...  

A regular cargo van with a fiberglass high top installed.

IMO, the new Transits are UGLLLLYYYYYYY!

They also seem narrower than the cargo vans, just from the way they look, I haven't actually measured one against a cargo van.

They're also at the top of the price range and because they are so new, there's no used market yet!

A regular cargo van can be outfitted with either a used high top from a donor van or you can purchase a new one depending on your budget. I have a 24" high top on the 2002 GMC Savana 2500 and it gives me a 6'2" standing height after I built out the ceiling and the floor.

There's a wider choice of cargo vans available...yes, you have to have patience to find a good one with the right size motor, in good shape and with low mileage. Be prepared to spend at least a few months window shopping and waiting, BUT you can bring in the total price of van and high top in at a reasonable price as compared to a new vehicle.

 

[wagoneer]

who cares if it's ugly, is it functional, I am ugly but work well (when fed)