Choosing A Van to Live In: ProMaster vs Transit vs Sprinter
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- Опубликовано: 27 апр 2018
- In this video I compare the Ram Promaster, Ford Transit, and Mercedes Benz Sprinter. I share, what I think are, the most important information details when choosing a van to live in.
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Hey guys, many of you were disappointed that I did not include the Nissan NV cargo vans in the comparison. Please reply to this comment with some of the pros and cons of those vans. I'll pin this to the top to help people with their van search. Thanks!
Nissan NV 2500-3500 high tops may look like a limited niche product. They are essentially an oversized version of a mini-van. Their outer size is close to Ram Promaster short base but cargo area is only 234 cubic ft (shortest Promaster is 259 cubic ft); they are narrower; ground clearance is very good (8.1''). Price is comparable to Promaster.
Terrible fuel economy.
www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2017-nissan-nv3500-hd-high-roof-cargo-van-test-review
Good as a stealth for one person.
The best conversion I have seen on RUclips was done by Lee, a retired automotive or aircraft engineer: ruclips.net/video/Pi3wXRFFqkM/видео.html
Shaun Wilkens I have a 2017 Nissan NV200 and am very happy with it. I like the narrower external look/design. I purchased mine for extended travel in van build camper mode. (I understand that New York has selected this Nissan model to become it’s mode of public city transportation eventually pushing out the traditional taxi. This, I understand, is because of it’s easy maneuvering, good ground clearance, great in town mileage. It’s sleek design is a factor in this selection as it is easy parking. The narrow design did not compromise the interior space.) My Nissan interior has almost no curve on the interior making a van build more space economic when insulating--easier scribing also. I am not sure whether it is width or height but it exceeds the Dodge Pro by I believe one or two inches, a great factor in small cargo vans. My van is great for stealth easily blending in in parking lots without compromising cargo space. Unlike many american made vehicles, all of my Nissan vehicles have never given me problems. The gas mileage: 26 highway and 23 city with air conditioner on (probably even better mileage without it on-I don’t know yet).
The right passenger seat folds down flat making it a really nice desk top for computer, etc....
The seating is very comfortable.
The floor comes padded.
Negative:
I wish the tires were bigger, but that is only from an esthetic point of view☺️
I noticed a water leak on a rainy day in my driver’s side rear door. Will address that issue soon.
I wish they made an option to open the side and rear windows. (That way I wouldn’t have to install a fan or ventilator on ceiling.)
All in all, I am so very happy with my NISSAN NV200. I have converted it into a camper and absolutely love it! Smaller space, less stuff!😁 I could easily sleep two in it building those 1x2 slat slide outs. (I put only a 30”wide plywood bed with 14” ground clearance and can still sit up without feeling cramped).
Hope this helps someone who is weighing small cargo van options.
P.S. My van’s name is HAPPY! 😁
SuperDeut4 sounds cool. How long have you lived in it?
John Derry John, I haven't lived in it yet. However, I am ready to at the drop of a dime. I built it for that. I am really satisfied with the outcome. (I know it is not a hightop, but when one steps into a small space, standing is not so necessary. So height does not worry me when I do move into it.) Will post here whenever I move in and report more. Thanks.
SuperDeut4 Any photos or videos of the fit out? I'm massively interested in converting an nv200
This has got to be one of the more informative videos that I have ever seen. Thank you does not even cover the length of my gratitude to you, but it is all I have - Thank you. I know I want a sprinter van, but was not clear as to what types there were. I appreciate the insight more than you know.
This was what I wanted to know. Perfect questions and sizing comparison. Just awesome. Thank you.
Thanks Erik! I appreciate you taking time to watch and comment :)
Thank you for the visual reference (seeing the van size grow and you laying in them, wingspan) and for the cost references.
Great video! I’m always wanting to see the models side by side like as far as height and width etc... thanks again!! 👍🏻
We own a 2004 Long wheel base Sprinter. It's fully converted into a camper. We live at 5000' in the sieras. Out worst gas mileage was 25, it's best is 28.21 mpg. Hope that helps people making the choice when choosing a van.
Onlookers should keep in mind that diesel mpg is usually about 20% higher than gasoline in any given application. It's one reason vehicles that rack up lots of miles are often diesels.
Those are some great stats. You must take great care of your van👍🏻
As a 20 year who is looking to get their first van this video was a good one to watch thank you!
Newer Ford Transit van. Cant go wrong. Most reliable by far. Strongest frame. I have one!:)
This is the best comparison I've seen. Thanks so mcuh for the details
Wow, thanks for the awesome video educating us on the differences between the vans! I’ve been thinking about this so what a great help this is! 🙏
FINALLY, someone almost my height speaking about the height issue us tall lads face and that we simply wont find a van to comfortably sleep in sideways so we might at least want to be able to stand up to full extension :)
Thank you for making a video from the perspective of a tall person! I'm 6'2" and the lack of width and height in the Sprinter is obnoxious. Good video!
Yeah, definitely has its advantages and disadvantages. Thanks for checking out the video!
Box car versions is vell suited for camper conversion looking even more like a work vehicle and is usually wide enough for a bed sideways with higher roof, the box shape makes them also more easy to mount interior in. Considering bying a 2011 Ford Transit box car myself with 19m3 room 2.2m wide and 4,2m long and about 2m height under roof.
I forgot how great a job you did with this comparison video!
I've seen the front wheel drive vans really struggle to climb steep mountain switchback roads. The weight of the van and all of it's contents shifts to the rear tires when climbing steep hills. I would rather have rear or all wheel drive with a diesel engine. I agree with you Shaun about how much everything is going to cost when going to a Mercedes Benz dealer. The advantages of front wheel drive means that there's no drive shaft for the chassis to have to clear, the fwd van will have more space inside of it.
Thank you Shaun. I was searching for a comparison like this although ... I also missed, like others, the Nissan NV200 high roof of which I still have not found the exact measurement on that. Thank you for your time to give us valuable information.
Great great video!!!! Thank you for some clarification that I wasn't sure about. I'm hoping to get a van in the coming year and your video has helped tremendously!!
Glad it could help! Good luck on your planning!
I worked as an EMT for a rural service and drove both the new Transit van and the current Sprinter; both Diesels. The Sprinter had bad Turbo lag which could be a pain around town, but overall I preferred the Sprinter because of superior handling and visibility from the drivers seat.
Exactly the video I was looking for.. someone to do a van review for builds... Thank You.
I've been asking this question forever as far as quality, best engine and cost forrber. Finally part is answered. Thank you!
Dodge pro master has been sold in Europe for many years. Have mine for 2 yrs now. As a contractor i use it for work every day. Have the fully extended version. Love it.
Glad to hear it!
Herag Hanessian Same here, mine works every day. Look forward to my next one
Thank You!!! this video was MORE than helpfull!!! You save me so much time!! Wow!!! Great!! :) got new susbcriber!
Great video Shaun. You did a solid job of comparing the different options. One thing to keep in mind, for other viewers, is that there's more to these vans than just factory options and fuel economy. There's factors such as resale value, availability of good quality used vans in your local market, ongoing maintenance and servicing costs, availability of aftermarket upgrades, and also, most importantly, drivability and handling.
We have a 2014 2WD Sprinter with a diesel engine and automatic and it is a joy to drive fully loaded compared to other vans we have driven, including the Transit, older T1N Sprinters and the VW Crafter (which are very similar in almost every way except transmission and engine).
I agree with your summary comment of going out and looking at each make and model, as well as test driving each option. Ideally, you should also borrow or rent a van of each make and model with a full load and see how it goes in a real use setting.
Thanks for making a great video and we will be subscribing!
Good vid! my son picked up a 05 sprinter w/160k to live in, first thing since he’s in So West we went through entire cooling system and serviced, new brakes, struts, had to take care of some leaks and rust but over all it’s been a real good conversion he came down to So Cal from Bay Area and got 24.5 mpg
Great video. Just wanted to add that my Promaster gets between 17.1 and 20.1 MPG fully built out. I had a hard time finding this info online before buying so decided to measure it myself.
Awesome! Yeah, there aren’t a lot of real world stats on built out vans mpg. Thanks for sharing!
Hi - this is the most important thing for me. Love living in a van, but hate burning fossil fuels..... Can you give me more info? What year is your promaster, what wheelbase, what height.... and how fast do you drive - and is it highway or city miles you're talking about? thanks so much!
holly hamilton hi holly, I have a 2017 Ram Promaster 2500 high top, I believe it is 136 wheelbase. I base that data on two road trips so mostly highway with city driving sprinkled in going around 65mph. The higher MPG was after my tires were recently inflated and had an oil change in the summer. The lowest was winter with more city driving not after a tune up. I went with gas over diesel because engine repairs would be cheaper but I hear you get better mileage from diesel. I would only recommend van life if you are interested in seeing the cities in between your destinations because it is usually cheaper to fly than to drive. Hope that helps!
thanks so much for the info - it really helps! And you're right, it is hard to find real world mpgs online!
mauroz100 Thank you for the post Im looking at purchasing a Promaster. Sounds like you ok with the performance. I am concerned about weight. What did you put on the walls- wood?
Good basic comparison .I went Promaster 159" high roof for front wheel drive, able to sleep sideways, gas mileage, and looks. I really don't like the looks of the ford and don't want to afford a Sprinter and the issues that come with it. Thanks!
Looks like a solid choice! Hope you’re enjoying it!
I am not biased against Ford, but I went Promaster 159" too.
I'm not biased against ford (changed my statement). I have always been a chevy guy buy I love the Ram Promaster.
Awesome comparisons, thanks! I'm shopping for a new van so I can hit the road and this really helped, seeing them all one after the other.
Thanks for checking it out Sharon!
Very informative! Thanks for this vid. Helped out for sure. Looking for my van now actually.
Loved your video. You’ve done your homework obviously! I especially like how you show all the length options.
Very well done.
Thank you! It means a lot that you took time to check it out
LDV convoy for me here in the UK. Brilliant vans ☺
so in my info search for a large van I have watched a lot of reviews, talked to many dealerships, and looked at many vans. By far I wish I had watched your review first as you answered more of my question in a one stop setting than any other source. Your walk through shows the interior room best as a side by side comparison with the details that I was looking for so thanks. With all that being said if you find yourself in my part of the world (Southeast GA) I owe you a free kayaking trip and a meal. Thanks again for the review.
That was so helpful! I have been considering a van life and I am constantly looking @ what is out there. Thanks for the help!
You bet👍🏻
Thanks for checking out the vid!
I love my 136” Promaster!!!!
...vs. Nissan cargo vans! They are awesome vans! Great quality!
I think you meant "vis a vis" ("in regards to")
Very informative. Im five foot six and ive looked at Dodge Grand Caravan cargo van, the Chevy Express, even the Ford E series. I was looking at a Transit Connect. Thanks for the advice. It was helpful.
You wouldn't fit in a transit connect.
Thank you SOOOOOOO much this is so well made and I love how you were able to incorporate the high res graphics. You are amazing
Thanks for the kind words!
No, thank you! :)
Thanks for this video. Super helpful!!
You bet!
Very helpful comments...thank you...I am just starting to look at options...it can make your head spin...especially on a 0 budget😒☺
S King Precisely! Check out the smaller but very nice NISSAN NV200. I have one! I did the van build amd am extremely satisfied. I named my van HAPPY!😁
Thanks for checking it out! I too had a low budget and I went through a credit union to buy my van.
Minivans (mommy vans) are cheap to purchase & insure, plentiful, and super stealthy. Something to consider.
Such great, useful information! Thank you!
Great video. I purchased a 2004 Ford E-350 12 passenger van in September. My wife and our son ( 10 months ) and a dog have camped in it a few nights now. We took the back 2 rows of seats out and built a platform with a queen size bed on it. Going to take 2 small motorcycles in it and tour the west with a buddy later this year. I think when I get back I will definitely look into moving up to a larger van. Love this stuff thanks for the comparison.
Hey oregonian here too man!
great video!!
Thanks Linda 🙏🏻
Shaun, great video with good info. Please keep them coming, we the public need to know these details and recommendations. Thanks. Always, Syn Silver.
Thanks Syn! Really appreciate the encouragement.
That was VERY interesting. Thank you!
Redheads are my favorites. ❤️
👍Terrific info & video. Thank you. 💞
I’ll check out your other videos as well.
Thank you 🙏🏻
LovingAtlanta The
Excellent Video and insight, straight to the point and exactly what I needed to get started.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks
Thank you! This was very helpful and I enjoyed watching it.
Thanks for checking it out!
I have a 2017 ford transit 250,high top long wheelbase van,with the largest{non turbo},{non Diesel} engine,I love this van,I've had it for 2 years,been to Alaska,{From Massachusetts},been to Florida Arizona, New Mexico,Texas, I got the one with the big GPS screen in the middle of the dash.{Option}. I have it LOADED with cabinets,bed ,refrigerator,stove, everything. It Flies up the Canadian Rockies, Lots of room, Have never had a problem with it.{There was a recall on a driveshaft problem.{which I didn't have} That Ford fixed right away.} This is not a cheap van,40K, empty,so it may not be in everyones budget.But I LOVE my Transit 250 van.They have been driving these things in Europe for years, similar to Mercedes,Sprinter, But Way less money,and Have a good reliability history. I'm not going to Bash anybody else's product .Just want to say I've had good luck with mine. Thanks, Have fun, Travel safe!
Dang! Looks like you’ve put a lot of miles on your van. Thanks for taking the time to comment. It’s great for people on here to know you’ve had such a positive experience with your transit 👍🏻
Are you keeping up with the mpg? I'm a ford guy would really like to know, thanks.
How you drove on rear drive weels in Alaska
vintage tiger c
No problem,The problems in traveling Alaska's roads ,are usually caused by having too big of a camper
=Promaster/FIAT Ducato/Citroen/Peugeot Boxer
Base for almost all non offroad european RVs.
Pros: Price, width.
Cons: Rear axle is very low, weak suspension. Only for good roads.
=Sprinter
Pros: Strong suspension, 4x4 version.
Cons: Expensive, very high mantainse and parts cost. Poor parts availability.
Poor corrosion resistance.
=Transit
Pros: Reliable, parts available everywhere. Much better corrosion resistance than Sprinter.
4x4 version.
Cons: Narrow, FWD version has the same type of lowered rear axle as Promaster
----------------------------
High roof is a MUST. At least your height +5 cm (2 inches).
For me it is 198+ cm.
I can not sleep sideways in any of them.
Thanks for the TL:DR version. Good summary!
Too bad it's a review of ones in Europe. In the US, no FWD transit, so high floor. Promaster is not made the same, different drive train in the US. Sprinter may be most similar across the pond.
Thank you. Great summary for those who are researching these options. Do all of the Promaster models in the USA have wider space than the other two brands?
Another issue with the Promaster; while you load the rear, it lifts the front. The front wheel drive and surface connection of wheels to the ground can be affected. Rear wheel or the four-wheel drive will alleviate this issue. Think Sprinter!
Tellin08 Also There’s Peugeot Manager and Ram Promaster in Mexico.
The Ram Promaster has dual km/h and MPH speedometer but Peugeot Manager speedometer displays only in metric. Theres also license plate bracket at the back of Ram Promaster, but Peugeot Manager doesn’t have that one.
Best “which van” video I’ve seen yet. Well done!
Thank you Shaun for giving clarity to these different van models. It will help me to decide which model I’ll choose when I want to build my RV!
Glad to be of any help!
The company I work for bought 2 sprinters. I drove a 2006 for 10 years. Sure the diesel got great gas mileage, but the thing was a maintenance nightmare. The turbo's on both went out. Transmission went on mine. Was never the same after it was repaired. Mine also spent a month in the shop while they replaced just about every computer on the thing to get it going. Both rusted badly. Repairs were expensive. The boss finally replaced them and had a heck of a time getting rid of them because of their bad reputation. He spent more on the last repair to get it going then he got out of it. Mine only had about 83K on it. I would only recommend them to people I don't like.
Decently the transit
X
Good information, thanks for taking the time to help us.
Happy to share!
Great video. Thanks for making it. Very helpful.
Excellent thinking to this puzzle. thank you for actually touring these unconverted vans.
Great video but Nissan NV2500 and NV3500 high tops should also be considered.
Pros: Blends in as a contractor vehicle even better than others. Nearly vertical walls. Swing-out back doors.
Cons: Fuel economy is horrible (12-14 mpg); kind of short, mostly fits minimalists.
My vote goes to Promaster. More space, lower floor, really wide. You can do a lot with what comes from the factory. Forget about fuel economy, you will never get it out of those vans.
Thanks for the info! I didn’t originally hear many good things about the Nissan high tops but there seem to be many fans in the comments. Perhaps I’ll take another look in a future video
As someone who has driven a NV2500HD (no high-top) for four years as his work vehicle:
They're surprisingly quick and even more surprisingly easy to navigate, despite its weird shape.
The AC system on my van has been quirky, and the only thing I've had to repair (twice now).
The windows are also a little iffy on the quality, but overall, the NV2500 high roof should be considered :D If you can afford it, get the HD version -- if you're doing mostly highway mileage, it cuts down to 4 cylinders when possible.
Fully loaded ( I mean fully loaded -- contractor), it averages 12MPG in DFW traffic.
My 5.7 hemi 2014 RAM gets average of 11ish. Much better highway miles, but are two different vehicles.
Good info, thanks for the write-up.
stevenzig 파
Shaun. Great video. I have a T1N with almost 400k miles. You failed to mention how costly the T1Ns will be if you are not a DIYer. I am a DIYer and still maintain this van non stop. Non stop! Rust, repairs and random things going wrong... I love it, but damn, it is expensive.
Super informative, thanks alot mate
The promaster does amazing in snow b/c front wheel drive! Add studs and it will go anywhere with 4x4 almost.
I’m a big fan of fwd. wish I had it on my Sprinter. Thanks for checking out the vid and commenting 👍🏻
Something to keep in mind though is that it has the lowest ground clearance I believe
But ONLY on flat ground!
FWD cargo VANs has really low off-center rear axle, and really small ground clearance.
For all you guys building out the vans as camper vans. Keep the weight down. Unless you're gonna go skiing from it insulate with styrofoam and carpet/felt not heavy wood flooring. Do you really need solar panels. charge your gadgets while driving. Use cheap battery powered LED's from Walmart and get a magazine sized flexible and folding Solar panel that you can place outside when you need to. Do you really need a fridge, what about a cheaper cooler with 2 inches of foam duct taped around it. If you take care with the weight you will get much better gas milage. Remember what a mechanic says to get better milage."EMPY YOUR TRUNK"
I think you make some valid points. It's good to consider what your real needs are and what conveniences are worth the trade-offs. I did a year in New Zealand living in a Honda Odyssey. Only charged off of an inverter while driving and had a cooler. I'm very happy having solar panels and a fridge and the ability to stand up when in the car. Thanks for checking out the video and for the tips!
Yes, keep the weight down. Totally agree. I made my one kitchen cabinet out of 1" sticking and epoxy coated 3/16 ply. Marine style, to fit some plastic drawers from Walmart. But for us, the 12v chest fridge (Engel, Snowmaster etc.) is freedom. We carry lightweight fabric framed folding panels that charge a lithium drop in house battery (google BattleBorn batteries). Power for the fridge to keep food on hand. You can spend your life keeping up with the melting ice that takes up half the chest at first and still you will not find any out in the boonies OR you can use the sun to keep your food fresh. My #1 tip. Best money you can spend on your van for long-term unless you are more the weekend warrior style. Oh, and cook outside and get more space in the living area. Oh, and get a roll out shade. Fiamma not perfect but probably best option.
John Doe thank you for your post. I am interested in getting a RAM Promaster. I would like to stand up and just have space to just move around.!
I see really nice camper vans that are beautiful with pinewood etc. My biggest concern is the weight. I ve already decided I will get a Yeti ice chest- don’t need a fridge. Also don’t need a lot of heavy cabinet/ storage bends or solar. I currently live in a Honda Element -2 years. I figure if I can live in such a small space I don’t need alot -- I crave space to stretch. I work full time, work out and shower at the gym.
My main requirements are if possible 2 fans and one glass window on the side that pops out and maybe 2 back window.
Open to thoughts and suggestions. I hear horrible things about the Promaster and Ford Transit.
@@zorazorazorzzora8333 Consider buying any decent 5-day ice chest. Coleman extreme or some more "boutique" brands that are good values. Look for the tests done with ice chests online. www.outdoorgearlab.com/topics/camping-and-hiking/best-cooler
www.fieldandstream.com/articles/fishing/2016/03/ice-chest-throwdown-12-top-end-coolers-ranked-and-reviewed#page-6
Save your money as paying Yeti big $ will not buy you that much advantage. You still need to deal with ice Funny thing is that you can get a well insulated DC chest style refrigerator
for almost the same money. You could even use it as an Ice chest when you are not driving, cool it down with 12V when driving.
(check Amazon www.amazon.com/dp/B07CG4Q1YJ/ref=sspa_dk_detail_6?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B07CG4Q1YJ&pd_rd_w=qgodV&pf_rd_p=10ebaf99-73de-4f5d-a994-e7f5fc52f86f&pd_rd_wg=JIUYW&pf_rd_r=JVEYGW87KEY6V2AB876Y&pd_rd_r=a19a504e-2d4c-11e9-9383-b9ef8e54b940)
But really, unless you have money to burn, start with an affordable performance ice chest and see how it goes carrying around melting ice. Then if you realize you do want a DC refrigerator, you won't have all your money sunk into a Yeti.
After all my research, we bought a used VW Eurovan. They also have their issues but we are very happy with our choice. I would recommend that you consider the Chevy/GMC vans over all these new Euro ones. None of them are quite right to use but the Chevy is affordable and reliable. We test drove and extensively research the Transit, Promaster and Nissan.
Yeah i need all that stuff i want to live in it not just weekend trips. Do you need power at your house? Do you need lights at your house? Do you need a fridge at your house?
These vids are great, I'm buying my van next year so I'm saving now. A high top so I can stand, and a diesel engine to go the distance will be a must.
Good call! Thanks for checking it out
Best Video! Thank you so much for that comparison!
How come you didn’t include any of the Nissan work vans? Those have a pretty tall roof
At the time I didn’t see much in favor of the Nissan NV high tops. There are several commenters who are fans of Nissan vans and I think I need to give them another look. Perhaps I should dedicate a video to the Nissan vans?
Shaun Wilkens I can’t say I’m a fan, I don’t really like their look. However it’s always good to have options. The ones I do see on the road seem to have the tallest roofs
There’s a vid of a man named Lee and his NV2500 van build is amazing.
Burton Hohman I have a Nissan NV200. The heigth is good even though it is a small cargo van. It is a great, reliable, and wise option for those who want to spend $20,000 less. Remember....we don’t live in our vans--many times we live out of our vans. Just saying.
Since it's based on the Titan which has 4wd, I'd really like to see a NV2500 with factory 4wd. I think they would have a hit on their hands.
What about adding in Econolines, Chevy Vans and the Dodge 2002 & older?
I am interested in doing a video on those vans! Need to educate myself a bit and find some van owners. Thanks for the suggestion!
Great video!
But as mentioned above, I feel that the exclusion of 'all' possible van options (including minivans) and only focusing on hipster sprinters is... well... hipster...
Like I said, great video, and I'll keep an eye out for future videos about cargo vans/passenger vans/minivans.
Which non-hipster platform did you pick for your build?
I chose to convert a 2005 Ford Freestar minivan (videos on my channel).
It's designed to be lived 'out' of, not lived 'in'.
However with that being said, i am looking to upgrade to a cargo van or conversion van. But i wouldn't buy a hightop or a sprinter because of price and very low stealth.
Watching your redesign #3 right now. I like the way you talk us through your reasons for your decisions. I'd sure be tempted to leave that passenger seat out... so much space!
Minivans are epic stealth for sure.
Thanks for sharing WoW 😲 great I really like when you compare Ford vs. Mercedes Sprint 🚗
Happy to! Thanks for watching
Thank you for the video, now I can clearly see how much more wider promaster is. I think that would be the direction I'll go, thanks again!
"If you like it leave a like if not give it two dislikes" 😂 i see what u did there
Wasn’t able to pull one past you, huh? Haha
I liked its so much I put 3 likes.
Jokes on you I have no hands
Lmao this lil thread was hilarious
Eve Belle ~ THAT was pretty cool . I like you Eve , you'd be fun to be around
Can you do a a comparison next on older kick start mopeds?
Most def! We’ll compare my moped to your scooter!
how do you carry your moped?
Tari Akpodiete handlebars fold down and it fits under my bed
Thanks for the info short and precise👍🏼 Makes me want t go buy one now
Do it! 😀
Excellent information, and explained very clearly!
I appreciate it! 😁
Thanks! Hope it helped
Shaun Wilkens Yes, it did! I will refer back to this information if I am fortunate enough to buy a GOOD van! 😊
For a smaller tighter budget, check out the NISSAN NV200! Top of the line in it’s category. Hands down. I am extremely happy with mine. I named my van HAPPY! 😁
Would you mind adding some of the pros and cons of the NV 200 to the comment I pinned at the top? Hopping to get a Nissan thread going for people considering that route. Thanks for checking out the vid!
I owned an NV200 for about a year. Bought it brand new and traded it with 15k miles on it. By far the worst vehicle I ever owned. It drove horribly and was in the shop more then on the road. Traded the NV200 in on a Ram Promaster city and that has been a fantastic van so far. We have owned the Promaster city for almost 4 year now. The Ram is better then the NV200 in every way except I preferred the navigation system in the Nissan and I also liked the side mirrors on the NV 200 better.
mopar0IIII0jeep So sorry to hear that. Nissans are usually really quite great vehicles. I am still thoroughly enjoying mine with no problems. Great gasoline mileage...24-25 loaded. In for the lo g haul as I would go upside down if I ever had to trade it in for problems. So far so good. Thanks. Enjoy your van.
How many miles on the transmission so far? Will it hold up under stress?
I can't imagine paying 10 grand for anything w/ 200k miles on it... let alone 14k. Does Toyota make any van you could use?
Gunther Ultrabolt Novacrunch Not in North America. However, the next option would be a Toyota Sienna minivan.
@@shawn2004grad Lmao that tiny ass little van!
@@JohnSmith-xx1lx - I bet you could install a pop-top for it to be livable.
Here in europe we have the toyota hiace, it's different then the japanese one but still a true solid toyota made in japan. Mine is a lwb 4wd diesel
Lol
Incredible video. Thanks for this very very difficult to find information. Hope no one removes this.
Thank you so much for this video Shaun!
i just realized that the Dodge Promaster is simply a rebranded Fiat Ducato. Btw, in EU there are NO petrol options. A diesel will definitely be more fuel efficient.
DerpEye They have just dropped the diesel option in the USA with the 2019 model. Now it’s 3.6 gas only here 🤷♂️
I work in a ProMaster 1500 with extended roof. Aside from the ability to stand straight up inside (I'm 6'4" with my boots on ), and decent gas mileage, handling and horsepower, this thing is on it's third set of front tires (11,635 miles ), and the keyless receiver does not work (have to use key in drivers door) AND the windshield wipers failed the first week. I must have got a lemon. Let the buyer beware.
Heard about a lot of problems with the Promaster. Poorest build quality it seems.
Dewey Fosworth Thanks for sharing! I’ve seen plenty of other people complain about the poor quality of the ProMasters as well, disappointing because it’s by far my favorite in appearance. I’ll likely settle on the Ford 😁
@@cubbiemalone49 the headlights in a promaster is a huge problem too. people have to replace them so many times and its very expensive. i went with ford.
ceeweedsl My 2017 high roof 159 has been trouble free for 30k so far. I’m a plumbing contractor that uses my van for work 6 days a week.
Well Done as you helped me zero in on watt the fridge I are doin..thx
A new fan
This was really, super helpful. Thanks Shaun!
You bet! Thanks for watching
Wished you had said more about the Ford because of its price, parts availability, and used market value.
I’ll have to include that when I get around to making an updated video. Thanks!
@@shaunwilkens yes please! I was surprised it wasn't included in any recommendation at the end. Like, is it more for the medium budgeted but still want comfort folks? I dug the way the transit drove personally...
Why not use a Nissan NV3500-High Top - Great Truck - with Great Power Plant
I’ve been getting that question a lot and the truth is I hadn’t heard enough positive things about the Nissan NVs to include them. I see now that there are a lot of people who are fans of those vans and I’m wondering if you would mind adding your thoughts under the pinned comment at the top of the thread? Thanks in advance!
Thanks Shaun. Informative and engaging.
You bet Larry!
I built out a Ford Transit high top passenger van with wrap around privacy windows.. I chose it because I didn't want to have to refinish the van walls and ceiling and the passenger van is finished nicely. I also chose it for the 3.5 V6 EcoBoost. Over all it is a great camping van.
you made me laugh. the second dislike negates the first dislike.
I hit the like button ONCE
Haha! Much appreciated!
That was good catching that! I totally missed it. I wondering if Shaun meant it for that reason? lol
Sprinter king of vans!!!
Rubbish. king of expence more like
Great video , very helpful tutorial
Thank you
Great review, thank You.
Promaster is my only choice!
Glad to hear!
Promaster being FWD also offers a virtual wide open space under the floor for mounting tanks, batteries etc.
yeah and the width is ideal. as much as height it important, if the main differentiating factor is really the length/heighth combos, then might as well go as wide as possible, and if you can go taller, go taller
the largest difference between an RV and these large vans, is the width (considering you can put any type of interior amenities in either space
I like the front end. It looks European and it offers more interior space by being somewhat flat. Though I am a fan of the freightliner sprinter as well.
That’s it. I’m going to jack my parents corvette sell it on Craigslist and buy a Sprinter tomorrow. Watch my vlog to see how.
Yasss! Looking forward to it! Subscribed!
This was in my recommendations soo yeah lol ..i enjoyed this video ...i definitely want a Mercedes van now
Thank you so much! This really helps a lot, keep at it 🙂
Thanks Saige!🙏🏻
Your Mercedes Vans will require a regular requirement of DEF Fluid every 1000 miles or so.... so beware .
If you go beyond the warning alarm ....that is after 3 starts , it will shut down the engine and youll need the dealership to unlock the engine.
So take this seriously .
Here's my top ten rules for choosing a van for van life:
Note: I am GM van biased but I will be objective.
1. Van life just means you own a van. You don't have to do anything with it but own it to be a part of vanlife.
2. Under no circumstances should anyone ever live in a van unless they simply want to, or there's been an unfortunate occurrence. Savings is a poor justification for van life. Ideally you should try to make more money not, save more money.
3. Although it's not considered to be, building out a van to live in it is simply a car mod, and should be treated it as such. There's no part of it that you can't learn how to make better for you.
4. Your build has to do two things: 1. Make the van a better overall vehicle, and 2. Make it better facilitate what you want to do with it.
5. Your build depends on what you want to do. Not 'have' to do, but 'want' to do, and where you want to go with it.
6. Functionality over aesthetic. This does not mean no aesthetic, but you will be surprised how many things are purely nostalgic, and nonessential. This also does not mean that you cannot have some insane luxuries if you so desired them.
7. Nothing is obvious. Be open minded. A van can do everything you want it to in van life, but not always in ways you might've expected it to.
8. Be honest with yourself. Most important thing is to be realistic about your time, budget, desires, and shortcomings.
9. Be inspired, but don't be a copy cat. People get inspired by a specific build, and think it's the only way, or optimal way.
10. Understand there's nothing wrong with pushing the envelope. Good builds come with competition. If not the next guy, challenge yourself to do it better. Subjective: It's better for me. Objective: It's better period.
Vince Abednego you are wrong on everything its been 20 years of me living in a road and i enjoy it i have safe over 200K in the past 3 years plus the more that i have safe and im looking to purchase a van under 50K cash if you know any let me know. You’re welcome
@@elchrispr7873 I think we get carried away with saving money and not making money instead. What's better, saving a millon, or making 100? What would you rather do, make 30 a day, and save 3 million, or make 3 million a day, and save 30? Just because you save a lot doesn't mean you make or have a lot. Marketers tell us we can save so they can nake money, but they don't always tell us about making money unless they're getting some of it. My theory is sometimes we get the idea that saving is more important than making money, and there's an entire culture of extreme savers now that think they're doing good because they're saving money when what we really want is more money. If you had more money you wouldn't have to worry about saving it. Not that you shouldn't save money, but you wouldn't have to, so it becomes a time thing. Some people have more money than time. Not because they're losing it but because they choose to spend less of their time saving money and more time figuring out how to make mor money.
I ordered a 2015 250 transit mid roof with the 3.5 twin turbo and use it as a tool van for my remodel business this van has been great I can zip around town a not noticed that I have a truck load of tools and hardware. I now have 31000 miles and have replaced the tires and changed the oil @ 5000. Miles.
A very good & informative video. Thanks.
Sprinters got really good engine but the bodywork rusts as hell
Yeah, especially those east coast sprinters!
3dmixer So true.....avoid!
I watched a video where their whole sprinter 2500 4x4 van was covered with something used in pickup beds to protect them. Two colors were chosen, so from a distance it looked normal. Light yellow for most of the body, then grey for the lower panels. Some northerners treat the inside of their panels, so limiting rust from inside out. I know from experience, living in Quebec, Canada and northern Maine.
Here in Ireland only the new ones(after 2006 ) suffer from rustworm
Also in Quebec, Canada (where I lived 13 years) mechanics apply a special oil into all the inner body panels to reduce, if not eliminate, internal rust. They get lots of snow and something more corrosive than salt is used on the roads.
6:56
Thank You Shaun :) You sure answered some questions i had :)
Thanks for checking out the video!
I love your dry but calming personality!
All of the European version of those vans get at least double the mpg you quoted, the European vans have smaller diesel engines.
Good to know! Thanks
Caveat: imperial mpg = 4.5 US mpg
My 23 mpg NA Sprinter = 28 imperial mpg (in the long n tall version)
Americans are addicted to horsepower and auto transmissions.
Gpad Gps gallon, not mpg. But maybe you knew that and the spell checker changed it? I live and worked in Montreal, Quebec (Canada) for 13 years and now live on Maine/Canada border.
hazzer hazzer diesel sucks
"If you don't like it give it 2 dislikes.." LOL
I live in Opel Vivaro on weekends. Im a roomy guy and i have no problems chilling in a small van with low ceiling. I guess owning a larger van would give much more space, but then again, i dont live in a van full time. Great video anyways!
So glad you made this dude!
Thanks man!