Storyteller Overland

[Obsessed2findARuggedHybid]

I have a friend who really likes the new Storyteller Overland Crew Mode. A few things worry me about these builds. They seem to have cheesy RV dealerships. They are built in Alabama. The electronics. Any opinions out there?

 

[Kgh]

From FB groups, they are better quality than say Winnie or Jayco.

Cultish foloowing,lol

 

[GR8ADV]

I have a friend who really likes the new Storyteller Overland Crew Mode. A few things worry me about these builds. They seem to have cheesy RV dealerships. They are built in Alabama. The electronics. Any opinions out there?

Having an outlet for spec vans and well as doing custom work seems to be the business model followed by many larger builders.

Having looked at them, Outside Van, Winnie, Rogue and Rossmonster in detail at the PNW EXPO, I would put them in the middle of the pack. I will look at everyone again in Longmont this weekend. Gotta make a decision.

When you add in some quality smaller guys like Momentum, for example, (and there are many good ones) they drop a bit further. The list of poorer ones however outnumber them all. IMHO

I would own one. No interest in owning a Winnie if that means anything. YMMV

 

[Roam.Wild]

We looked at them HEAVILY when they first came out, even flew down to the manufacturing facility!

It's a great van. Much higher quality than something like the Revel (or any other RV brands making vans). The cost aside, it's a killer build! IMO the only other option would be something from Rossmonster.

 

[86scotty]

The cost aside

Unfortunately I will never get past this part. Yes, I'm at heart a home builder but I have never dreamed of anything van wise that would cost me more than around $100k to build.

It's not about having the money. I guess if it were my priority I could have whatever I want camper/explorer wise. It's about spending that kind of money on one thing that doesn't check every box I have.

 

[GR8ADV]

Unfortunately I will never get past this part. Yes, I'm at heart a home builder but I have never dreamed of anything van wise that would cost me more than around $100k to build.

It's not about having the money. I guess if it were my priority I could have whatever I want camper/explorer wise. It's about spending that kind of money on one thing that doesn't check every box I have.

Well a new sprinter Awd is $80k alone.

 

[86scotty]

Well a new sprinter Awd is $80k alone.

Exactly. Why would someone buy one though? Are we talking about overlanding or weekends at the KOA?

I know this is a contentious opinion, especially given the sect of humanity who's heads are turned by these overpriced underperforming things, but mine isn't. I prefer to get to the end of real trails.

Just my opinion. And I do have direct experience with them.

 

[GR8ADV]

Exactly. Why would someone buy one though? Are we talking about overlanding or weekends at the KOA?

I know this is a contentious opinion, especially given the sect of humanity who's heads are turned by these overpriced underperforming things, but mine isn't. I prefer to get to the end of real trails.

Just my opinion. And I do have direct experience with them.

You’re getting slippery. First it was the cost of the built out van. You thought 100k was something “you couldn’t get past” . So I noted that they are starting with an $80k van. Now it is the capability of a sprinter. I’m not going to chase where ever it is you want to go. How about we let this get back to the OP’s concerns about Storyteller.

 

[86scotty]

The OP asked for opinions. I gave mine on price, on chassis and on the trend of overpriced under capable Sprinter builds in general.

Carry on sir.

 

[EPO]

I looked carefully at Storyteller and many other custom vans and after doing so, purchased a somewhat custom van. For the money, I believe that there are better quality van manufacturers out there such as Rossmonster, Vanworks, Gone Mobile Vans, Tourig, etc. Also, not a fan of MB but some people are; I prefer the Transit. Suggest that your friend join the FB group. Many are happy. PM me with any questions.

Not sure how your friend is going to use it but make no mistake...no van will be as capable off road as a truck camper or truck towing a camper. That said, I enjoy the van and it's so easy to make camp in and out quickly, pull over when needed, etc.

 

[RVflyfish]

Not sure how your friend is going to use it but make no mistake...no van will be as capable off road as a truck camper or truck towing a camper.

Interesting statement. What makes you say this?

I suppose if you mean “no unibody van” like a Sprinter or Transit, I can agree.

But Econoline 4x4 owners might have a different opinion. Check out what Raul does with his Jaleo 2 build, or Ramsey mobbing his Agile 4x4.

And I’m not sure how a truck towing a camper would be more capable. The camper’s suspension will be the big limiting factor there. Never mind trying to back up or turn around on a narrow trail.

 

[GR8ADV]

I have found two truths in my way to many years here.

1) Every vehicle has compromises. There is no silver bullet. Based on their own unique circumstances and desires, every person has their OWN lists of compromises they can or can’t live with.

2) There are sects of people who relentlessly think their compromises are reasonable and result in the best choices for everyone.