Gently modding a 4x2 Pleasure Way Traverse van

[CSG]

My van is based on a 2002 Ford E250. Pretty much the same floorplan as a Westy/RB50. It is 4x2 with a bit over 8" of clearance. I'm running 225x16 Michelin LTX M/S tires. I have no plans to try to convert it to 4x4 and I want on pavement manners to be good as most driving I do is on paved roads while getting to the good stuff.

The thing is, I'm not a trail runner, I have NO interest in stuff like the Moki Dugway, the White Rim trail etc., I just like to travel the southwest and my area.

The local 4x4 store suggested maybe a minor lift, maybe some bigger AT tread tires, maybe a locker but not LSD, and probably a self recovery kit with a come along and hi-lift jack. They also suggested I upgrade my 12v compressor to something a little more capable.

I'd be very curious to hear your ideas for MILD mods. Remember, I am not looking to build a trail runner, just add a bit more capability to the existing platform for high clearance type roads. It's fine on dirt/gravel.

The van in question:

 

[Desert Proven]

check out Camburg for some ideas on suspension for your van.

http://www.camburg.com/ford e series van.html

If you are going with a locker, I'd recommend an air locker or e-locker. You don't necessarily want a fixed locker for everyday driving.

 

[robert]

A high lift is only useful if you have a solid point on the vehicle to use it. It'll probably bend your stock bumpers but you can get attachments to hook it to your bumper instead of it sitting directly against it as well as one to use with your wheels. A shovel will get you out of a lot of stuff- everyone is gung ho to add a winch but I've seen older guys do some pretty amazing self extractions with just a shovel or a shovel and a jack. Along with this, make sure you have some actual tow points- those welded on loops under most vehicles are for tying it down, not pulling it. Carry a tow strap and a couple of shackles and you can get another vehicle to pull you out- most folks don't carry a strap.

If you don't have any, some driving lights help reduce eye strain. One of the first things I do with any vehicle I buy is make sure they have good headlights. If the housings are still good, put in a decent set of aftermarket bulbs. Make sure the connection is good and you are getting full voltage to them. Speaking of, that's a good time to check your battery and make sure the terminals are clean and in good shape.

You could move the spare tire to the rear door to increase clearance and add a gas can while you're at it. If you do any water crossings you can raise the axle vents.

The other thing I'm a big believer in is being prepared in case of a breakdown/stuck. I always carry enough food and water to last several days along with appropriate clothing for the season. I don't want to make the news like so many idiots who head out without any gear expecting to be able to use their cellphone if anything goes wrong.

I'd lose the ground effects too.

 

[surfgeek33]

I'd lose the ground effects too.

+1 on loosing the ground effects. And change the tires to a more aggressive tread pattern, such as an A/T tires. Good luck!

 

[DragRag]

+1 on the ground affects, take'm off or ripe'm off, it's your choice. If your going to be on dirt roads, your first stump will take of those things.

 

[CSG]

Yeah, I hate the dang running boards but will remove them properly so the next owner can add them back.

The Michelin tires are E rated which gives them a pretty strong sidewall but I wonder how big I can go without any lift?

 

[wanderer-rrorc]

check my build out below...

over a decade of wheeling..and having similar interests as you with not trying to 4x4 your van..just not worry about getting stuck on a bump..


bigger tires...maybe even mud tires on the back (my boss has this on his conversion van and has NO problems with snow or muddy roads..)

locker is nice...but a LSD will work...you have a 8.8 ford rear..theres a TON of aftermarket lockers for her...

onboard air...yup...I got it..love havin it..run tools..fix a flat...horns..locker..dusting off!!...

if you dont want to do bumpers...a hidden winch under your stock front...or a receiver hitch front and back and a winch on a cradle (dont really like them left on...but it will get you un-stuck!! XRC8 winch is only $300!! and will pull the van unless its stuck to the windows!!)

highlift (48in)..straps..clevis...maybe even a short spade shovel (all planned on being included..all I have to buy is a shovel...)...no straps with built in hooks!!!

look into HELLA driving lights too...theyre nice...:Wow1:

 

[DiploStrat]

check my build out below...

Do you have a link to pictures, etc.? Sounds most interesting.

 

[wanderer-rrorc]

Do you have a link to pictures, etc.? Sounds most interesting.

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=34292

:Mechanic:

 

[DiploStrat]

Thank you!

Started reading now!