Transit custom gross weights

[cyclingspongecake]

I am considering buying a transit custom high roof, long wheelbase as a general vehicle and to convert to a camper van but I'm confused by the multiple gross weights available as I want to get something that's as economical as possible but has enough weight capacity as well.

So I have some questions that I cannot find answered to my satisfaction on t'internet and hoping people here can help..

1. How is the higher gross weight achieved (e.g. more metal?, slightly bigger ??) does a higher gross weight mean the base van is heavier to start with..?
2. Probably covered by the above.. would a higher gross weight van have a worse fuel economy?
3. Which engine is best and power output 2.0 130bhp ? I'm looking at the euro 6 2.0 because of better emissions and trying to avoid being charged too much when driving in areas where there are emission zones.
4. Realistically what is the fuel consumption .. does it vary much between the different engine power outputs?
5. Does anyone have any experience of remapping these .. I've had several cars and my current big van (Renault Master) remapped, all with good results/better economy.
6. Is there actually much difference between the 2.2 and 2.0 in terms of fuel economy and would a remapped 2.2 be the same/better performance/economy ...?
7. Much difference in fuel economy between high and low roof..?
8. There seem to be a fair few 'higher mileage' vans around, I'm generally hunting below 70,000, but how good/rugged are the engines in these ? Could I safely risk a higher mileage one and still get some years out of it? Btw are they cam belt or chain driven?

I know these may not be simply answerable and there are compromises to be made but gives me a bit more to narrow down the options.


Thanks!

Chris

[dumper]

I’ve no experience of the custom but
1 gvw will probably be down to springs and tyres maybe larger brakes
2the more weight you carry the more fuel you will use
3 I’ve usually found that higher output engines can give better fuel economy as you do less gear changes and you don’t need to stress them as much as lower powered vans.
4 if you want euro 6 it will have to be 2.0 the only 2.2 euro 6 will be a minibus
5 I’d say yes if done by vantuner
6 if you want euro 6 it has to be 2.0
7 yes as you will have more drag
8 have a look through the who’s got the highest mileage thread will give an idea

[Altransit]

2.2 will be a chain, which are, on the whole, pretty reliable.

2.0 will be a wetbelt, which can fail early if not serviced correctly, although there are many around with high mileages. Oil changes are critical with these, have a look around here for posts regarding these 2.0 engines