'13 E-350 EB Clydesdale 4x4
- Thread starter Rovertrader
- Start date
Rovertrader
Supporting Sponsor
Hopefully will be a while Doc, but so noted!
Rovertrader
Supporting Sponsor
New 6" springs installed, and went with a new set of Bilsteins as well- all is as it should be!! Ride greatly improved compared to even before weight added!!
Cannot pry the kids out of the back with the Siena seats, and the van is now the 'go to' vehicle! Will likely see DD duty- and it fits in the garage, at least for now sans rack...
Next up on the list:
-install winch, 12k# Ironman with synthetic rope (on the shelf, so go with it)
-new head unit ordered with rear camera input and high resolution camera.
-add front aux lights, but hold on side/rear lights until rack time
-finalize rear 7.5' layout. Looking at center facing couch (Rollover convertible bed- folds up out of the way, or over into a bed) like used on the toy haulers, then built-in cabinetry on opposite side with front opening DC fridge. Incorporate shore power/aux batteries/generator at this juncture. Also considering stand alone rear A/C/heat for overnight use. I think I have ruled out raising/cutting roof for now, as this rig will be more for traveling and not stationary camping for days at a time.
-possible roof rack and awnings. Kitchen equipment to be in back and have tray pull out from under built it cabinetry. Awning over rear doors and perhaps side doors. Possibly add 'room' in both locations aka ARB awning/add-a-room. Decisions, decisions...
-entertaining larger fuel tank for remote exploration.
Any thoughts/suggestions greatly appreciated- especially from those with lots of miles/trips under their belts in similar setups.
Cheers!!
Cannot pry the kids out of the back with the Siena seats, and the van is now the 'go to' vehicle! Will likely see DD duty- and it fits in the garage, at least for now sans rack...
Next up on the list:
-install winch, 12k# Ironman with synthetic rope (on the shelf, so go with it)
-new head unit ordered with rear camera input and high resolution camera.
-add front aux lights, but hold on side/rear lights until rack time
-finalize rear 7.5' layout. Looking at center facing couch (Rollover convertible bed- folds up out of the way, or over into a bed) like used on the toy haulers, then built-in cabinetry on opposite side with front opening DC fridge. Incorporate shore power/aux batteries/generator at this juncture. Also considering stand alone rear A/C/heat for overnight use. I think I have ruled out raising/cutting roof for now, as this rig will be more for traveling and not stationary camping for days at a time.
-possible roof rack and awnings. Kitchen equipment to be in back and have tray pull out from under built it cabinetry. Awning over rear doors and perhaps side doors. Possibly add 'room' in both locations aka ARB awning/add-a-room. Decisions, decisions...
-entertaining larger fuel tank for remote exploration.
Any thoughts/suggestions greatly appreciated- especially from those with lots of miles/trips under their belts in similar setups.
Cheers!!
Rovertrader
Supporting Sponsor
I just figure a straight 13, but varies from 12-14. A bit tough compared to the Navion averaging 20, but apples/oranges. It is funny actually, as the 150 got 14-16 most of the time, the PW never saw double digits. So for a huge brick that weighs several tons, the mpg vs it's versatility, towing capability and the ability to save hotel stops whilst on the road, it is not a bad alternative IMHO.
Encountered a nasty muddy ditch/rut at the farm last week, and no issues 4x4 wise- better than a 4x4 truck actually- more like a big Suburban traction wise.
Encountered a nasty muddy ditch/rut at the farm last week, and no issues 4x4 wise- better than a 4x4 truck actually- more like a big Suburban traction wise.
Rovertrader
Supporting Sponsor
This selling for $40k (not near as nice- pitiful tire/wheel combo) this week doesn't hurt either:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2014-Ford-E...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2014-Ford-E...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557
Rovertrader
Supporting Sponsor
Thanks Jeremy, now to find some time...
mk216v
Der Chef der Fahrzeuge
Rovertrader
Supporting Sponsor
It was a 5.0, and got 20 regularly on trips until the 35's- then seldom above 16, and the tires were mild A/Ts. I assume it took it out of the sweet spot, as it was geared at 3.73. However, the funny thing with the 6.8, not just in the van, but even F-350s, is towing, larger tires, etc makes minimal impact. And these are real world (corrected for size) numbers BTW.
We did get some of the graphics on last evening as it was unseasonably warm! And window deflectors, one more item off the list... Need to get the Jack Knife couch/bed ordered, but debating the 72" vs 76". AT 6'-3", not much to debate- except valuable interior space.
We did get some of the graphics on last evening as it was unseasonably warm! And window deflectors, one more item off the list... Need to get the Jack Knife couch/bed ordered, but debating the 72" vs 76". AT 6'-3", not much to debate- except valuable interior space.
Rovertrader
Supporting Sponsor
Been a bit delayed due to a torn Achilles- getting old sucks for sure!
I was about to order a sofa bed, 74" mounted lengthwise along pass side as far rearward as possible. Then I had to retrieve a pallet last week, opened the rear doors, and all good- and realized the flexibility I lose with a hard mount couch/bed! So now back to considering a 'Jack Knife' style used in toy haulers- folds up completely, or can be configured as couch or bed. Or do I just use a trailer when needed- have a couple, so no added expense, just convenience.
Thoughts by those of you using these much longer than I??
I was about to order a sofa bed, 74" mounted lengthwise along pass side as far rearward as possible. Then I had to retrieve a pallet last week, opened the rear doors, and all good- and realized the flexibility I lose with a hard mount couch/bed! So now back to considering a 'Jack Knife' style used in toy haulers- folds up completely, or can be configured as couch or bed. Or do I just use a trailer when needed- have a couple, so no added expense, just convenience.
Thoughts by those of you using these much longer than I??
DudeAbides
Observer
Would love to see some pics of the Clydesdale front suspension setup