Ambulance Camper/ Expedition Rig Conversion FAQ

[Skinny]

Aside from suspension modifications and compatibility, I would think most people fall into the categories of "I want a simple non electronic 1 wire diesel" or "I want an overdrive and lots of power".

Not really wrong on either side of the camp but different beasts that both can be built to accomodate anyone if you know what you are starting with.

 

[flightcancled]

If you want to have a simpler engine with the compatibility with late model E-Series vans then get a pre Power Stroke (92-94) with the International 7.3 or 6.9L engine.

 

[Waltzing Matilda]

thank you- I'm wondering if that's the only concern (adding 4WD).

I'm fine w/2WD, at least for now, so a 4WD modification is not crucial. Most of my Baja driving is highway, typically until the final few miles into camp, so I'm not doing off-road for most of my travels.

Also, I'm planning a construction project on a lot in northern Baja, so part of getting this vehicle is to haul building materials, and also camp in it during building phase.

Given this: Any other concerns with an older, low mileage ambu-van E-350? Is the Int. Harvester engine an issue (pro/con)?

Since it was a fleet vehicle for a local company that's still in business, I'm hoping it was regularly serviced/maintained (not sure the current owner has the maintenance records)

thanks again! helpful discussion.

The answer was two paragraphs down. The Ujoint kit will not work on the previous year models.

 

[tgreening]

thank you- I'm wondering if that's the only concern (adding 4WD).

I'm fine w/2WD, at least for now, so a 4WD modification is not crucial. Most of my Baja driving is highway, typically until the final few miles into camp, so I'm not doing off-road for most of my travels.

Ok, now just get this out of your head right up front! There are few things in this world with an engine and at least 4 tires that cant be improved by the addition of a 2nd axle and a transfer case.

Don't struggle, you'll just end up tired.

 

[Waltzing Matilda]

Ok, now just get this out of your head right up front! There are few things in this world with an engine and at least 4 tires that cant be improved by the addition of a 2nd axle and a transfer case.

Don't struggle, you'll just end up tired.

Ha! Too true, and too late- I'm already tired... in part because I went and looked over the '87 Econoline.

A lot of van, roomy, has potential, but... I didn't get the sense it was "the one" I'm looking for.

So... the search continues....

 

[Shocker]

I too am curious about the post '92 recommendation. I currently have my eye on a 1989 Ford XLT ambulance van. The ad says it's an automatic v8 7.3 diesel (with 4x4!) and an odometer reading 163,000 miles.

It looks really cherry, but I'm not very mechanically inclined so wouldn't know what to look for aside from what it mentions in the ad: recently retired and kept in the bay, so no rust.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

-Ale

Personally, that sounds like a fantastic rig. I love my rig, but I would love it even more with the 7.3. It has a decent amount of miles and sounds like it has been maintained well. Did you go look at it? What 4x4 conversion was used?

I prefer the earlier body style. The longer nose allows better access, fewer electronic systems to worry about, and I just like the lines better. I can't speak for everyone, but the newer body has current support for things like bumpers etc. Plus being newer usually means lower miles, possible better maintenance etc etc. Like with Porsche's, buy the newest one you can afford is a common attitude. Nothing at all wrong with that, but don't be afraid of an earlier body like that 89.

Post some pics if you have any! Or a link!

 

[Bikersmurf]

thank you- I'm wondering if that's the only concern (adding 4WD).

I'm fine w/2WD, at least for now, so a 4WD modification is not crucial. Most of my Baja driving is highway, typically until the final few miles into camp, so I'm not doing off-road for most of my travels.

Also, I'm planning a construction project on a lot in northern Baja, so part of getting this vehicle is to haul building materials, and also camp in it during building phase.

Given this: Any other concerns with an older, low mileage ambu-van E-350? Is the Int. Harvester engine an issue (pro/con)?

Since it was a fleet vehicle for a local company that's still in business, I'm hoping it was regularly serviced/maintained (not sure the current owner has the maintenance records)

thanks again! helpful discussion.

The 7.3 Powerstroke is also built by International Harvestor. Earlier models have less electronics, and are also not-turbo... I can't quote you years because I'm not knowledgeable enough.

I'd also be realistic about your planned use... 4WD is more costly, requires more maintenance, and hurts your fuel economy. If you'll never use 4WD, then save yourself some money... If you need it often, then go for it... But I've gone all sorts of cool places in 2WD, and the fuel money saved can buy a really nice winch.

 

[IdaSHO]

The 7.3 Powerstroke is also built by International Harvestor. Earlier models have less electronics, and are also not-turbo... I can't quote you years because I'm not knowledgeable enough.

.

The powerstroke 7.3 was NEVER made non-turbo.

 

[flightcancled]

The Ford Powerstroke has always been turbo.

The international 7.3 or 6.9 was made by International. In 93 and 94 a bolt on turbo was optional. They are very hard to find, but if you pull the complete kit it's supposed to be a straightforward bolt on upgrade +/- some tuning.

 

[mk216v]

"4WD...hurts your fuel economy. If you'll never use 4WD, then save yourself some money... If you need it often, then go for it... But I've gone all sorts of cool places in 2WD, and the fuel money saved can buy a really nice winch.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but if your 4WD is in 2WD mode, then MPG isn't that much worse than a 2WD only rig. No?

 

[onemanarmy]

Not really. A 4wd vehicle is usually taller, is heavier, and may be geared different. Also, if the front axle doesnt have locking hubs, then the 4wd drivetrain is spinning at all times and adds to rolling resistance.

 

[mk216v]

Not really. A 4wd vehicle is usually taller, is heavier, and may be geared different. Also, if the front axle doesnt have locking hubs, then the 4wd drivetrain is spinning at all times and adds to rolling resistance.

I was assuming lockable hubs as mine has, sorry for not clarifying.
Agreed and understood on being taller(increased wind resistance) and heavier. Issue for me is I never really know if/when I'll need 4WD when I explore, so I'd rather have it than not. But YMMV; a discussion for another thread.

 

[phenopd]

Question: I'm working on a type II ambulance. Are the house batteries isolated from the starting batteries? ( 7.3)

 

[IdaSHO]

X2

4WD vans are taller, heavier, have extra roling resistance, have extra resistance in the transfer case, require more maintenance, and have larger turning circles.

Now your just making up reasons to justify your 2wd van


With manual locking hubs there is no extra rolling resistance.

Driveline loss in the transfer case is negligible. 2-3% at most.
And not even noticed by a diesel. They care primarily about RPM.

More maintenance? Sure, two more items to check fluid in. Front diff and transfer case.
Both of which are considered bullet proof in a 1-ton ford.
Oh and BTW, the gear oil in the diff is considered lifetime. Never has to be replaced.
Gear oil in the T-case, every 60,000. Incredible amount of work, I know. (sarcasm)

Larger turning radius? NOPE. Try TIGHTER with the 4wd.
Lifting the rig to allow the solid front axle allows for a tighter turning radius.

 

[Bikersmurf]

No need Justify a 2WD Van

Let's agree to disagree. Although rated for a lifetime, my diff oil needs to be changed... An extra diff, knuckles, an extra driveshaft, a Transfer Case, and extra U-joints... doesn't reduce maintenance.


Bigger & more aggressive tires, extra wind resistance, more weight... doesn't help fuel economy...


Bottom line is I don't need a 4WD van when I know I'm not going wheeling in my 4 ton Ambulance when I've got an Fj40 I hand built and I live in an area that sees snow an average of two days a year.

Know how you're going to use your rig, and build it to your needs.