I have noticed this van on a local dealer lot for more than a year. It’s advertised as a cargo van with an exposed metal roof, basic seats, and no luxury features. The main difference I see compared to a standard cargo van is the windows on both sides and in the back doors.
I think the windows might be the reason it’s not selling. With all that glass, it limits the options for adding shelves since you can only attach them to the metal pillars between the windows and secure them to the top beam and the floor.
What do you think? Could the windows be why this van is still available?
@Evanderjay
That makes sense now that you mention it. I didn’t know a full window cargo van was an option. What’s the appeal of that, and do you have to put plywood strips over the windows to add shelves and such?
@Mackenzie
I run a mobile chiropractic business and use this style van for my work. It makes the space feel less cramped and allows my drivers to see better.
@Mackenzie
I set up a similar van. I started with a 15-seat passenger van, a 2016 transit, and removed all the seats except the first row behind the driver. I took out the headliner and the airbags in the back to build shelves and cabinets for my tools since I’m a residential remodeling contractor. Some shelves are in front of windows. I originally wanted a cargo van, but during the early days of COVID, they were hard to find, so I went with this one. It works well for me. Feel free to ask any questions; it’s easy to build around the windows.
@Lane
I’m planning to outfit this for my photography and woodworking tools. I’m buying this van before I retire to customize it my way. What did you use for insulation, if any? Did you cover the ceiling, walls, and floor with plywood?
I’m thinking about making window grates with fencing and wood frames. Did you cover your windows?
@Mackenzie
I didn’t insulate, which was a mistake. I’m busy with small kids and new businesses, but if you can find time, insulation would greatly improve comfort regarding noise and heat retention. If you DM me your email or phone number, I can send you pictures. I just used plywood for shelves with rubber bumpers on the edges for durability and appearance. I installed threaded inserts, where you drill holes in the sheet metal and use a tool to install threaded rivets to attach the shelves.
It’s been a solid van, but if you’re buying new, consider a Sprinter. A friend got one last year, and even though they’re priced similarly to the Ford Transit, the interiors are quite nice. I preferred a gas engine since I don’t travel far.
Are you worried about the condition of a new vehicle that has been sitting on the lot for a year? Things like tires, brakes, fluids, oil pump, water pump, and transmission could be issues.
Jax said:
Are you worried about the condition of a new vehicle that has been sitting on the lot for a year? Things like tires, brakes, fluids, oil pump, water pump, and transmission could be issues.
Honestly, I hadn’t considered that, but I’ll ask the dealer. I’m hoping to get a good deal since it’ll be another birthday on the lot in three months.
I reached out to the dealer about the van mentioned earlier and asked if they could check the rear differential for adequate lubricant. This is related to the bulletin Ford issued regarding rear axle bearing failure.
The dealership is hesitant to even lift the van for a check until I visit. I would’ve thought they’d want to know if there’s enough lubricant for their peace of mind.
After reading posts from owners struggling to get parts and facing long wait times, I’m reconsidering if this is the right van for me.
Does anyone know if a significant number of these vehicles had actual damage and needed repairs, or was it just a small but vocal group of Transit owners?