Shopping for a Van

OGL

Observer
Hey all!

I usually spend my time here on the Trailer forums but lately it seems our family is moving up into the van category. I'd love to jump right into a converted E350 4x4 with 7.3 but that might be unrealistic at this stage. I'm not married to any brand but my impression is that Ford has pretty much hit the mark. I'd consider other brands if there was a compelling argument. But for simplicity, Ford is probably my first choice.

This van will be the primary family vehicle serving many duties. Kids, dogs, toys and gear with a road trip likely once a month even in winter. (read light camper duties) I don't need finished luxury. I'd definitely consider a used commercial van that I can build to suit my needs.

I'm trying to narrow down which model. I've read the reviews, I'm hoping for real world feedback. Is there a big difference when choosing e150, 250 or 350? Is it prudent to look at a cheaper 150 and beef up with 350 parts?

The reviews for the new Transit are glowing. But does it hold up with real use? Too soon to tell?

edit: I am willing to go new or recent used to hedge my bets on reliability. But maximizing my dollar is important. Yes, I know e series is discontinued.

Thanks for any and all feedback!
 
Last edited:

bknudtsen

Expedition Leader
Responses in blue. You'll get much more love in the other forum.

Hey all!

I usually spend my time here on the Trailer forums but lately it seems our family is moving up into the van category. I'd love to jump right into a converted E350 4x4 with 7.3 but that might be unrealistic at this stage. I'm not married to any brand but my impression is that Ford has pretty much hit the mark. I'd consider other brands if there was a compelling argument. But for simplicity, Ford is probably my first choice.

This van will be the primary family vehicle serving many duties. Kids, dogs, toys and gear with a road trip likely once a month even in winter. (read light camper duties) I don't need finished luxury. I'd definitely consider a used commercial van that I can build to suit my needs.

I'm trying to narrow down which model. I've read the reviews, I'm hoping for real world feedback. Is there a big difference when choosing e150, 250 or 350? Yes. E-150 is on a different frame. Is it prudent to look at a cheaper 150 and beef up with 350 parts? No.

The reviews for the new Transit are glowing. But does it hold up with real use? Too soon to tell? Too soon. It's a unibody, so we'll see.

edit: I am willing to go new or recent used to hedge my bets on reliability. But maximizing my dollar is important. Yes, I know e series is discontinued. Plenty of support on this very forum for the E-Series.

Thanks for any and all feedback!
 

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