My 2003 E150 Build

[Craig M]

Well, I finally did it.. I finally convinced my wife that vans were cool, especially 4x4 conversions, and that we really needed one. A couple weeks ago I found a pretty good deal on a conversion van and decided this would be the one.. The first one anyhow, as I can only imagine as soon as I get done with my conversion plans, I'll get antsy and want to start something new! Haha. Over the last year I have sold my Ford Courier, offroad converted trailer and roof top tent, and although initial plans leaned towards a teardrop, I decided to just go straight to a van build, for about the same investment, and tow the Jeep!

So here she is in her original glory..





We're taking it on a trip in a couple of weeks, so although the ultimate plan is to do a complete 4x4 conversion using 3/4 ton donor parts, for now I just needed to gain a little clearance and get some better tires on there (for dirt roads). I first replaced the front springs with heavy duty, progressive rate replacements. They're the same height, officially, but the stock springs were sagging pretty badly (evidenced by the negative camber). The new springs (and some shocks) perked it right up, as did an add-a-leaf in the rear.

 

[Craig M]

Next I put on the new wheel / tire combo, that will be the set-up until the F250 axle is under it..



As you can see, I also started on removing the stripes.. I will be pulling the running boards off this weekend, which should further improve the height, and appearance. But I think it already looks way better!

I have already purchased a few of the interior items, including the foam mattress.. I'm only focusing on building a better bed for this trip, and then will work on adding cabinets and additional storage.

 

[RoarinRow]

Great canvas to work on!

 

[CaptainBuilt]

Which 4x4 kit are you going to use?

Here’s a little motivation.

My beast.

 

[Craig M]

Nice! Planning on using the Ujoint conversion stuff, but plan to source as much of the donor parts as possible myself. And short of setting up the differential gearing and the welding needed, I plan to do as much of the work as possible.

 

[CaptainBuilt]

Nice! Planning on using the Ujoint conversion stuff, but plan to source as much of the donor parts as possible myself. And short of setting up the differential gearing and the welding needed, I plan to do as much of the work as possible.

I haven't completely converted it to 4wd yet. I still have 3.55 gears in the rear, which sucks bad. I have the rear gears and ARB locker ready to go. I just haven't had the time to install them.

Good luck with your build. Vans are the best.