E350 VS Transit - Econoline Pros and Cons

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  • Опубликовано: 25 июл 2024
  • Roof Rack: amzn.to/2U8ZuSR
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    Link to my Expedition Portal build write-up:
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    Quick thoughts on the Ford E350, E250, E150 platform's strengths and weaknesses and a comparison to what you get in the Ford Transit. The Econoline is the tried and true classic van that dates back to the 70s. Countless conversions and campers have been made out of the Econoline platform. The Ford Transit is a european-style van meant to compete directly with the Mercedes Sprinter and Rebel. While the Transit is a great vehicle on the highway, claims that the vehicle was built to be perfect for vanlife are far-fetched.
    This is a 2001 Ford Econoline E250 with the 5.4 liter V8 gas engine. It was converted when new to 4x4 with a Dana 44 axle by Quigley 4x4 in Lancaster Pennsylvania. Although it came to me as a bear bones contractor van, I spent 2 years slowly building it into a completely custom rig for my lifestyle.
    Transit vs Econoline, Transit or e350, Ford Transit, Ford Econoline, Transit vs Sprinter, Ford Transit Camper, Cheap Van Camper, Van Conversion, Conversion Van Camper, Camper Van Tour, Ford e350 Camper Conversion,
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Комментарии • 94

  • @jaraxlebanre6463
    @jaraxlebanre6463 2 года назад +5

    Found me a 98 e350 cargo with the V8. 135k. Feel so damn lucky to have landed on this deal, older Ford vans you cannot go wrong with. I'll never be homeless again. Traded my mint condition 91 S10 show truck. Older ford's and Chevys are brothers now. Nothing holds up to the pinnacle American made full size vans. They will outlast the owners.

    • @Khlandestine
      @Khlandestine 10 месяцев назад

      Seriously. Even before my econoline i had a dodge dakota with the good trans model/year and if it didnt explode it wouldve outlived its original owners.

  • @stevelipman1662
    @stevelipman1662 Год назад +1

    Good video man. Its nice to see one from a guy who actually uses his van and knows what he's talking about.

  • @dingalsbe88
    @dingalsbe88 3 года назад

    I just binge watched all of your videos... you are going to do well on YT. Subscribed for sure.

  • @DreamerxOfxThexNight
    @DreamerxOfxThexNight 2 года назад +1

    Thank you so much for this breakdown!! ❤️

  • @BlueWonderLady
    @BlueWonderLady 2 года назад +1

    Fabulously informative. Thank you!!!!!

  • @PedroGomez-bd9ro
    @PedroGomez-bd9ro 3 года назад +1

    Good review 👍
    I would like you to make another one of the other years down the road

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      Reviewing the Transit? Yeah maybe a good idea

  • @gabrielluiscontreras9188
    @gabrielluiscontreras9188 3 года назад +1

    I'm getting an E350 soon. I guess I'll have to paint it with bed liner to protect against rust. Nice looking door cubbies!

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад +2

      Undercoating and being religious about re-applying it will be your best friend

    • @gabrielluiscontreras9188
      @gabrielluiscontreras9188 3 года назад

      @@alexbarham6079 thanks for the suggestion! I hope you enjoy your new van btw!

  • @yeyuan8788
    @yeyuan8788 Год назад +2

    Just wondering how you did your insulation and interior walls? It looks simple and great! I want to do something similar.

  • @HaloDaycare
    @HaloDaycare 3 года назад +9

    I love my econoline! 300,000 miles hit just this past weekend. It's my daily.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад +1

      WOW! That's insane! What motor?

    • @jameseverham3703
      @jameseverham3703 3 года назад +1

      Mines a 91 it has 44,000

    • @HaloDaycare
      @HaloDaycare 3 года назад +3

      @@alexbarham6079 Its an 03 e250 and it has 4.2 if you can believe that!

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

      @@HaloDaycare That's wild man!

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

      @@jameseverham3703 Barely broken in!

  • @higharctin-tin9144
    @higharctin-tin9144 3 года назад +1

    How do you only have 4 subscribers?!?!
    Just picked up my e250 from a contractor. Gonna convert it to a camper!!

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

      I just started this channel a few days ago. Thanks man and good luck!

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

      Also go ahead and subscribe!

  • @faceinthecrowd5810
    @faceinthecrowd5810 2 года назад +2

    Currently I have a 1997 GMC 1500 Savana conversion van with the fiberglass high top. 170k. I will be buying another van sometime in the future, no hurry. I have been researching vans for dual use camper van and daily use, most days I feel the cost of the newer pro master/ transit style van is just way more money than I am willing to spend, I dont do loans. The one must have for me is the high top, being able to stand in my van is a game changer and I wouldn’t even bother with a low top.
    My 97 is awesome, lots of power, drives so smooth on the open road, camps great with my mild build, and pulls my lawn mowing business trailer 5 days per week. One good option for myself and others who want a camper van on a budget are the conversion vans. Yes the stripping from the factory is hideous, most are 1/2 ton, and they all require a semi gutting to become useful…..but I’ve had two and I could buy another and still be under budget cost of a 2015 pro master. Just my thoughts.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      The conversion vans can be improved easily with some eblow grease. It isn't hard to remove that vinyl and the fiberglass fender flare step things. at that point they look like any other high top.

    • @faceinthecrowd5810
      @faceinthecrowd5810 2 года назад

      @@alexbarham6079 for sure. I had the lower section painted, painted the fiberglass top, added fog lights, dual exhaust out the back….best looking 97 Ive seen!!

  • @alexbarham6079
    @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

    Parts Used: www.amazon.com/shop/alexbarham?listId=3N68A8A4V6ALL

  • @readytorvdude1224
    @readytorvdude1224 Год назад

    What is the wheel & suspension parts? I like the way it sits

  • @cabracove
    @cabracove Год назад

    Vantage HIDs are the bomb for Econolines.

  • @richardhenry1969
    @richardhenry1969 2 года назад +5

    Gotta say as a mechanic you are going the wrong way. I would not go for a transit on a bet.
    You realize the transit is never going to hold up to anywhere near the abuse the E350 has.
    Hey what do I know ! Lol

  • @Martin-xb2rz
    @Martin-xb2rz Год назад

    Hey Guys. I bought 2 Vans a extended 96 with the rare (in Germany) 7.3 and a short 5.8. also I bought a 2005 f250 4x4 for a 4x4 conversion, I also have 2004 axles with leaf springs.
    My plan building a shor gasoline 4x4 with leaf springs and a Diesel powered manual extended 4x4.

  • @theblevinsfamily3317
    @theblevinsfamily3317 2 года назад

    Where do you get a lift for these vans? Looking to level my 98 e350

  • @LowTGaming
    @LowTGaming 4 месяца назад

    Looking at getting an econoline to live in seasonally for wildfire, any recommendations on specific engines/years. probably going to also pay for a mechanic to check over things since i have very limited knowledge about them

  • @flowrob6861
    @flowrob6861 3 года назад +2

    Got an E350 with 63k miles for 1800$ total 2yrs ago . It was butt ugly filthy . Mechanically Solid with easy inexpensive fixes that I & kids could do with utube . Parts are inexpensive . Would pay extra for an extra 6 - 12 inches in engine compartment .

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

      Ah yes! Amazing how everything is shoe-horned under the hood!

  • @Khlandestine
    @Khlandestine 10 месяцев назад

    Is the bumper that was on your econoline bolt on? I havent checked but im assuming there is not factory bolt mount holes for aftermarket offroad bumpers for the econolines? I have a 2000 E-350

  • @smuir6104
    @smuir6104 3 года назад +5

    I miss the clearance on my E350. it was great, except for one detail, it was natural gas! I will never own another one ever again. when you are in the city and can get the CNG it's okay, but they only have a range of about 150 miles, so it made it useless for kayaking, and camping. There are not enough CNG stations across rural areas. Secondly the 1995-2002 Triton engines blow spark plugs all the time. Don't get a Ford van or truck with that engine for this time period!!! Lastly all CNG parts are super expensive. The only factory that makes CNG part is in Canada and because they are the only one, their parts are super pricey. A pressure regulator cost over $1500, (in a propane type equivalent they cost $15-20) Hopefully this will help people looking to invest a lot of money into a van, because if you get CNG you will regret it!

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

      My major issue on the 5.4 was the exhaust manifolds. FAMOUS for having major issues and needing to be replaced with all the studs requiring heli-coils. I did also blow a plug, but it wasn't a big deal in the end.

    • @frenchfryfarmer436
      @frenchfryfarmer436 2 года назад

      Up to 2004

  • @Sochmo18
    @Sochmo18 7 месяцев назад

    Im looking for a used van for around 15k or less, my options are mostly vans with over 100k miles. Which one do you believe will be most reliable in those higher miles? Thanks!

  • @ericerickson72
    @ericerickson72 2 года назад +1

    I am super interested in the material you used for the walls and ceiling. I have an 03 E350.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад +1

      That is grey indoor/outdoor carpet. You can find it at any big box hardware store. If you want loads of detail on the build go into the video description and follow the expedition portal link to my build

  • @jamessherman7570
    @jamessherman7570 3 года назад

    I have a 2003 E350 not 4 wheel drive. From Houston no rust .2.347300 miles runs great . I just redone the bed and cabinets inside but nothing in front of the gas intake bump my sink is right above it .. it is the extended van also ... the transit van I have driven for about 2 years as a shuttle driver.. did not like the gas cap area next to the driver door. It gets caught on your shirt jacket or pants.. I have see them broken off on other transit vans and Mercedes Van's.. not a good placement for the gas cover. The ride pretty nice after you get used to it.. ✌😎👍

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад

      I'm hoping there is some aftermarket solution that comes out to deal with that silly gas cap. Seems like a total afterthought

  • @JRMooreMusic
    @JRMooreMusic 3 года назад +1

    The pockets on that side door...is that just the inside of the door, or did you make pockets to go inside there?

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад +2

      That is the inside of the door lined with sound deadening. In my new van I also carpeted it. Highly recommend

  • @yuppy-gr4qj
    @yuppy-gr4qj 2 года назад +1

    The under carrage rust very bad. My body on outside looks great . Don't look underneath. 5.4 have very expensive timing chain gear. . 5.4 has plenty of power. Tho I do like that fuel millage not terrible for a big vehicle 13.0 to 15.0 I still only love econoline.

  • @alexsveles343
    @alexsveles343 Год назад

    I love the American Van's like the econoline

  • @christopher6161
    @christopher6161 2 года назад +4

    I was watching this then I discarded your opinion once I saw the transit

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      Bahaha. I was in that camp myself at one point. This is my daily driver and switching meant that my gf was comfortable enough to take the new van around the country for 6 weeks. Wouldn't have happened in a massive econoline

    • @christopher6161
      @christopher6161 2 года назад +2

      @@alexbarham6079 only because it is an older vehicle? The transits have bottomless expensive engine and transmission problems, good luck with that

  • @jonlosito2004
    @jonlosito2004 2 года назад +4

    E 350 all the way!! They’re a lot more reliable than the Transits. The transits tend to have AC problems.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      I loved my E-series, but this was just not my experience. Both of the E-series vans I had were money pits costing me thousands a year to keep on the road. The Transit has needed nothing but new brakes this year including following a 12,000 mile road trip.

    • @jesse1up
      @jesse1up Год назад

      Q6

  • @Yotojunto
    @Yotojunto 9 месяцев назад

    We love Econoline, I can say that the only thing transit bring is more fuel economy just that. But maintenance is more expensive and if you need to repair something parts are rare to be. Instead Econoline ones have a huge parts access and better prices. Transmission on transit sucks. Even the brand don't put any information of how to maintain, it just says go to dealership. Actually you can change that oil but it have to be pump out, just imagine that. Road view on transit are better but in long distances you will feel your bones any moment. Seats and driving space on Econoline is better I know because I'm 6'5". AC on Econoline have issues, on transit I can say is more stable and clean.

  • @llano19fly
    @llano19fly 3 месяца назад

    What is the difference between Ford Econoline & Chevy Express van? The stories I have heard about the "new" transit Vs promaster & Sprinter are not good.

  • @K-9Gar
    @K-9Gar 3 года назад

    Where did you get your fender flares

  • @VegaVenturing
    @VegaVenturing 3 года назад +2

    Liked and subscribed. :) We purchased our 2011 E350 last summer and are slowly building it out. Will do a 4x4 conversion this year. We live in Oregon and don't appear to have the rusting issue you had, but you never know what might happen down the line. We post videos of our adventures on our channel if you're interested. Great content!

  • @orthopraxis235
    @orthopraxis235 Месяц назад +1

    to all California haters: our stuff doesn't rust. You can find drive own whatever you want for forever here. Now back to regular programming. Nice video thanks.

  • @sebastianslife91
    @sebastianslife91 Месяц назад

    Econoline ❤

  • @CJColvin
    @CJColvin 2 года назад +3

    I've seen a bunch of Econline Van's at my work and most of em and rusty as hell with over 100,000 miles.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      Rust is certainly part of it. They are all getting older now with no new ones unfortunately.

    • @CJColvin
      @CJColvin 2 года назад +1

      @@alexbarham6079 I know brother and the Transit Van looks hideous and ugly. At least Ford makes the Econline cab over vans with the new 7.3L Godzilla V8 in it with a new interior.

  • @awack_
    @awack_ 2 года назад +1

    Econoline by far is the best choice.
    Your Door Hinge is worn out .. Thats common and easy fix.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      After nearly a year I am not missing the Econoline anymore. I had the offroad monster and it was really mostly a pain for daily use

  • @frenchfryfarmer436
    @frenchfryfarmer436 2 года назад

    Get your transit up on a rack and look at the sheet metal box assembly holding the front of the springs on the dana80 . How long you think thats gonna last in salt country.

  • @k9andsbarklesadventures466
    @k9andsbarklesadventures466 3 года назад

    Where did you get screens for the econoline?

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  3 года назад +1

      Sandy I made them from scratch. Just cut to shape and then made little squares to hold strong magnets. I attached the squares by putting my cut out screen on wax paper and gluing on the magnets and squares with black silicone. Simple and effective.

  • @donalddlugos6688
    @donalddlugos6688 2 года назад

    Dude. My driver door is hammered have a black van

  • @ricusserfontein1086
    @ricusserfontein1086 2 года назад +1

    The old style American vans are just better lookin than these new eurovans But thats just me.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      Agreed. Having a real frame is huge too. I don't understand why they have to build these things like cars now. Extremely limiting

  • @greglp970
    @greglp970 2 года назад +1

    Beware of the water pump on the Transit. It's driven by the timing chain INSIDE the motor.

    • @alexbarham6079
      @alexbarham6079  2 года назад

      Solid point. Oil changes are huge on these

    • @Khlandestine
      @Khlandestine 10 месяцев назад

      Sheesh I almost fainted I thought you said econoline

  • @user-iw4oy7yk1j
    @user-iw4oy7yk1j 4 месяца назад

    I'd rather on that Ford 4 x 4 then the other one I'm old school I'm an old man need old thing I like that Ford van would do me good not picky something to live in and travel with

  • @Wakanda4bigmama
    @Wakanda4bigmama Месяц назад

    Why not just pay for annual rust prevention treatment

  • @bentwood4414
    @bentwood4414 2 года назад

    Undercoat goes a long way, better investment than a oil change where they use salt on roads. Won't have your rust problems🤟

    • @j03y__
      @j03y__ 11 месяцев назад

      It can also make it worse

    • @Khlandestine
      @Khlandestine 10 месяцев назад

      @@j03y__if you dont scrape the rust off first?

  • @thruthaseen.9892
    @thruthaseen.9892 Месяц назад

    That’s a diesel

  • @savvysavvy4527
    @savvysavvy4527 10 месяцев назад

    How much did you sell it for ?