I'm looking for the first time to buy a Transit

[Wayne08]

Hi-First of all what a great site! Good to know that this here is here for when I finally get my own Ford Transit which I intend to do and-which is why I am writing. I don't know at this point much of what to keep an eye out for when buying a Transit van and so am hoping someone could offer some helpful advice. I'm looking for a van to take over to europe for summer holidays, and for touring around the uk, so intend to find one already kitted out or else do the conversion myself. Which models would you suggest and what are the common issues to look out for when checking it over please?
Cheers your time is much appreciated
Mitchell

[Wayne08]

I forgot to add how much I am willing to spend-unfortunately only up to 2500 pounds
Cheers Mitchell

[doughythevanman]

First of all Welcome I would suggest looking for a 190 xlwb ( high cube ) they are the biggest transit and the best (imo) for conversions. I would look on ebay to start with and make sure if you see something you like, GO AND VIEW before you bid as things are not always described truly!. If you do your own conversion i would suggest looking around at caravan surplus shops as they are ideal for units, cookers, sinks, etc etc.. and are really cheap! Hope this helps a little and you will find a lot of helpful people on here who can steer you in the right direction.

[cmeonthemove]

Welcome Mitchell!

If you're getting anything older than 2000 (i.e. smiley face mk5 or older), which for £2,500 is probably what you'll be looking at, look out for oil on the rear diff, the seals are often a weak point and if not replaced correctly cause an axle whine. Proper repair is expensive. Also these vans are notorous for rusting wheelarches and door sills (my 2000 V reg already has started!) - so check these areas and be wary of very recent resprays, they may be hiding something. Make sure you also check the heater switches - the resistors in these often break, particularly on the fan speed switch.

If you're lucky enough to find a mk6 for your budget (new shape Transit) make sure the gear selection is smooth in all gears as the selectors are a weak point and that would lock you in 1st/2nd, 3rd/4th or 5th/Reverse only.

Otherwise it's just checking the usual, electrics working, knocks, rattles, HPI, service history etc. You'd be best getting a turbo diesel to cope with the weight of the kit and the long journeys.

If you are doing a conversion yourself, look to get at least a semi-high top, although if you're going abroad, a high top or even a high-cube (like Securicor Omegas) would be best for standing room. There are several topics on here on conversions, and one at least I know of with photos. http://fordtransit.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=12004&p=106967&hilit=camper+conversion+photos#p106967

If you want windows, you might want to consider a minibus for conversion.

One thing's for sure the Transit is the best option, they're so cheap to repair and parts are always available.

Hope this helps!
Chris

[Wayne08]

Cheers for the worthy advice...much appreciated!!
Mitchell

[Richied]

For an incredible amount of info and advice on building your own camper conversion check out this forum:

http://www.sbmcc.co.uk/

I'm in the process of sourcing a Transit for conversion for a trip through Europe to Morocco later this year. After much deliberation of base vehicles I have decided to get a transit.

My main reasons being that they come in a model with the dimensions that I want, they drive well and there are plenty to to choose from...

Take it easy, Rich

[intransit89]

, a high top or even a high-cube (like Securicor Omegas) would be best for standing room.
Chris

http://www.davelarge.co.uk

Securicor Omegas hi-cube

[Campertess]

i'm also in the process of creating my conversion.
tranny 190 ex day ambulance.

my advice to you is.
dont do it !!!

because it will become your life
your awakening thoughts every morning n design ideas when your trying to go to sleep at night.

everywhere you go,everything you see,will suddenly change into
"i need that for my van"
i could do such n such in my van with that lol.

its a terribly contagious disease being a tranny owner fanatic.
beware

dont say i didnt warn you

[stacey231287]

merc sprinter all day long

[Campertess]

merc sprinter all day long

[Guy88]

merc sprinter all day long

WHY

[stacey231287]

coz they r the daddies

[MrMPuk]

coz they r the daddies

Looks like you're on the wrong site then!

[stacey231287]

nah coz i have a trannie at the mo

[Campertess]

nah coz i have a trannie at the mo

why ?

cos their the Mummy's