Seeking advice: outfitter/builder/converter recommendations

73datsun

Member
My wife and I are in the initial planning phases of doing something stupid. Prior to our daughter starting kindergarten (3yrs from now), we're contemplating quitting/taking leaves of absence from our careers, selling our house, boat, vehicles, etc and taking 6m-1yr exploring North America.

I'll detail out what capabilities we'd need and I'm hoping you can point us towards places we should research/consider and any comments or opinions you may have.


Vehicle:
Think we have it narrowed down to Sprinter or Transit. Long wheel base/tall body.

Drivetrain:
No specific opinions or preference for diesel over gasoline, but do have our eyes on better fuel economy. Up in the air whether 4wd is a requirement or if I can get away with good tires. If 4wd, I probably wouldn't go the conversion route (e.g. modifying transit) and just stick with the Sprinter 4x4

Passengers:
Me, wife and daughter (who would be 5yrs old) and a Springer Spaniel and Wirehaired Pointer.

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Layout:

Seating for three. Want access from driving compartment to living area. Rules out full size truck with slide-in.

Amenities: galley, head/shower, bed for two, bunk or bed for a child

Expected travel: North America. With heavy amounts of time in AK, Yukon, NWT, UT, CO, WY, MT, etc. I rode a motorcycle to the arctic circle and would love to take them up there. I don't plan for extensive off road, but plenty of dirt and gravel (e.g. Dempster, Denali Highway)

Budget: I'm guessing we'll need to spend at least $80k. Not to exceed $120k. Open to new or used.


Builders that we are aware of: This is the tough part, just figuring out who does conversions.
SMB
Outside Van
Tiger
Earthroamer



Thanks!
 

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