I’m planning to convert a transit van into a camper and I’m not sure if I should get the 12 rear seats included and try to resell them later or just take the $855 savings. What would you do in this situation
Just take the savings. Selling used seats can be a hassle. I still have one seat I couldn’t even give away. Living in a rural area makes it harder, but there are so many seats out there already.
Markdon said:
Just take the savings. Selling used seats can be a hassle. I still have one seat I couldn’t even give away. Living in a rural area makes it harder, but there are so many seats out there already.
I really like the better lighting, visibility, and look of a passenger van. Did you have any issues with registering it as an incomplete vehicle? I’m wondering if the $800 savings is worth that potential headache.
@Reagan
I went with a cargo van. My wife initially wanted to add seats, so we got some, but plans changed and now I’m stuck with them. As for the incomplete vehicle thing, I’m not sure how that works. Personally, I’m glad I didn’t go with a passenger van. They’re harder to insulate, you have to work around the windows, and it feels like you’re in a fishbowl when parked. Dealing with all those windows and curtains can be a pain. With a cargo van, you can add windows where you want them. But everyone has their own preferences.
Take the savings. It’s not worth the time, effort, and storage space you’ll need for the seats.
Check the resale market first to see if it’s even worth it. I’ve had a hard time selling a 3-seat set.
The seats are tough to fit in vans that didn’t originally come with them. You’ll also have extra holes in the floor from the seat tracks. I’d skip the seats.
Tyson said:
The seats are tough to fit in vans that didn’t originally come with them. You’ll also have extra holes in the floor from the seat tracks. I’d skip the seats.
It’s also illegal in some cases. You might run into issues with insurance. Ford seats can only be moved to another passenger van, not a cargo van.
Take the discount. Storage isn’t cheap, and shipping is expensive. Once you convert the van, you won’t need the seats. The only reason to keep them is if you plan to revert to a passenger van later.
Mikayla said:
Take the discount. Storage isn’t cheap, and shipping is expensive. Once you convert the van, you won’t need the seats. The only reason to keep them is if you plan to revert to a passenger van later.
Did you have any trouble with registering it as an incomplete vehicle? I’m trying to figure out if the $800 savings is worth it.
Take the discount. eBay is full of Transit seats. When I converted back to factory seating, I had no trouble finding seats. They’re a pain to store and ship.
Go for a cargo or crew van. You won’t have to remove panels to insulate or wire things up.
Aydin said:
Go for a cargo or crew van. You won’t have to remove panels to insulate or wire things up.
That’s a wild suggestion. Vandoit has been doing this for years. Start with a passenger van. I’ve converted both and would never do a cargo van again.
@Mikayla
I’ve had 12 vans since 1973, none of them work vans. I prefer blank slates that I can customize. Windows get cold, even with covers.
Aydin said:
@Mikayla
I’ve had 12 vans since 1973, none of them work vans. I prefer blank slates that I can customize. Windows get cold, even with covers.
To each their own. Glad you enjoy putting in the extra work.
@Mikayla
I’m retired now, so I don’t mind. Just starting my 2020 midroof AWD ecoboost build.
Aydin said:
Go for a cargo or crew van. You won’t have to remove panels to insulate or wire things up.
Cargo vans aren’t easy. You’ll need to add walls, ceilings, heaters, and air conditioners.
@Mikayla
And insulation.
Get a cargo van. It’s a blank slate to work with.
Jason said:
Get a cargo van. It’s a blank slate to work with.
I think windows are a must. Do cargo vans come with any windows besides the doors? I talked to a few outfitters, and they said to get the windows if I know I want them.