Transit Cargo Van or Wagon as a starting base?

[omniphil]

Hi folks,

New user here, I'm seriously considering getting a 2014 Transit Connect LWB for camper conversion. I have been watching tons of you tube videos on conversions.

What I am unsure of is do I get the Cargo version where the back is all stripped down and ready or do I start with the Wagon with the seats and insulation. I'd take out the 3rd row seats completely, but the 2nd row seat go pretty flat and I don't think would get in the way of a bed that would just go over them. (Plus I can make the top of the bed hinged to fold back in case I want to flip up the 2nd row of seats for passengers)

I am thinking Wagon mostly because all the rear insulation is already in place and the Wagon's generally come with windows already. However, Am i going to want windows? will that make it way to hot?

Just trying to put some pros and cons together as to a cargo van with no windows vs a wagon with seats, windows, insulation. These things have gotten fuel efficient enough that I'd probably just drive it daily too.

[FredTransit]

Wouldnt there be more room in even a SWB properTransit?

[omniphil]

Wouldnt there be more room in even a SWB properTransit?

I would imagine yes, however what's the gas mileage of the regular transit?, There is a diesel option, but its almost 10,000 USD more. It's too pricey and fuel economy isn't good for something that I'd like to drive around alot on vacation.

[MinorMatt]

You don't get the small transit in the states

Connects are a bit small for camper conversions - but it can be done. Most people get a van and add a 2nd row of windows and seats (if you are buying new you can probably spec this at ford anyway...). They don't normally have any insulation in, just a thin covered panel made from a cardboardy product to make it look nice inside.

As for "gas mileage" of your big transit - we can't comment. We only get the option of the 2.2 diesel (4 cyl, up to 155PS), whereas you have a choice of 3.2L diesel (5 Cyl, 200PS) or the 3.5L Ecoboost gas engine.

We used to have the 3.2 5cyl (until 2011/2012). but they couldn't get it to meet our current emissions standards for new vehicles (except in the ranger???). Most people reported 30ish mpg (uk gallons - not US).

[FredTransit]

Ah I didnt realise you are in the US, though 'cargo van' and 'wagon' should have given me a clue. How about a nice econoline on LPG?

[omniphil]

Econoline would have pretty terrible gas mileage, not sure what an LPG is but I'll assume the gas mileage is bad too. The transit connect with 29 mpg highway is what got me thinking. That's good enough for a daily driver and a connect is small enough to be a daily driver as well. So...... my original question was about how you would equip a small van/wagon if you were looking for a camper, not which one to get

[MinorMatt]

I focused on this bit

What I am unsure of is do I get the Cargo version where the back is all stripped down and ready or do I start with the Wagon with the seats and insulation.

and

Just trying to put some pros and cons together as to a cargo van with no windows vs a wagon with seats

I have dark tinted windows in the back of my (big) transits and they don't get any warmer than without them. Its a bit depressing not having windows in a camper!

There are a few progress reports about connect campers here and in the members progress reports section... probably worth hunting them out?

[omniphil]

I focused on this bit

What I am unsure of is do I get the Cargo version where the back is all stripped down and ready or do I start with the Wagon with the seats and insulation.

and

Just trying to put some pros and cons together as to a cargo van with no windows vs a wagon with seats

I have dark tinted windows in the back of my (big) transits and they don't get any warmer than without them. Its a bit depressing not having windows in a camper!

There are a few progress reports about connect campers here and in the members progress reports section... probably worth hunting them out?

Perfect, thank you. Sounds like the Wagon version is going to be better to go with vs the Cargo Van version.

[MinorMatt]

I havent got windows in all the panels though - just the ones behind the driver.

Remember its easier to add a window than take one away!

[jonny round boy]

Remember its easier to add a window than take one away!

Not necessarily - you just need a can of spraypaint...

[MinorMatt]

Tried that...just cracks after a few weeks