4x4 DIY Ambulance Tiny House - Bug Out Camper For Under $10k

[@TinyHomeTours]

Having a rig like this at this time would be pretty nice, what do you think?

[@janeysiegrist5061]

I could live here quite comfortably

[@CoolWater01]

@@janeysiegrist5061 Same here!

[@kayrussow8517]

Quick question: the round table is stored where? That appeared out of nowhere.

[@tommiller525]

@@kayrussow8517 we run with it assembled. It Stowe’s against the back door or under the rig when we go to bed mode. A lot of times we set it up outside under the awning when we camp.

[@danmcelroy6584]

Yes it would be nice. But 8 miles per gallon would hurt the bank account for me.

[@tommiller525]

Hi all. Thanks for all the love for the Fambulance... and Boomer. I wanted to address a couple concerns and questions for folks. Not to change any minds, but maybe give insight into some decisions we made along the way. 1. Height - The camera makes it look shorter than it is. I’m 6-ft and can stand up in the door threshold (but nowhere else.) Because the rig sits so far off the ground, a conventional box would put us over 11’ high which becomes problematic crawling along densely wooded forestry roads in the northwest. As an overlander, we trade inside clearance for outside clearance. 2. Plumbing - It’s coming. I have an on-demand water heater, tanks, a pump, and other stuff, but I’m afraid to cut into the counters until I’m ready. I want to find the perfect sink and stove first because I only have one shot at it. 3. Toilet - I am blessed with a wife who was raised by a Boy Scout. We camp in the woods. To each their own, but the shovel and Pulaski on the roof do more than put out fires. ‘Nuff said. 4. The boy - The rig came with seat belts on the passenger side and I added more on the driver (headboard) side. There is safe seating for six on the benches. It is a lot more than we had in the old fiberglass and particleboard land yachts we rattled around in back in the 70’s. 5. Ghosts and Cooties - I’m a volunteer firefighter. I escort neighbors into these rigs on the norm. I encourage anyone doing one of these builds to tear them down to the frame, scour every surface, and build from there. We have no ghosts we’re aware of, but if you believe in that sort of thing, then you probably know of ways to appease and/or eradicate such bad vibes. Crystals hanging from the mirror, seances, essential oils, sage? I don’t know, but I’m sure someone out there has a solution. I appreciate everyone’s feedback. I’d love for y’all to check us out on Instagram @fambulance as we continue to improve our little rolling cabin in the woods.

[@serenakoleno9338]

Yes, smudge with sage, if you're worried. I live in a house built in 1900, would be safe to assume someone's died here. Also, who knows what has happened in any used vehicle? Just because it's a car or a soccer mom van doesn't mean grisly murder or yucky fluids didn't occur! I am more concerned with mechanical failures, etc.. Thanks for being a volunteer firefighter!

[@drivepro1]

I have just bought a Chev sierra ambo in New Zealand. It is mostly done inside with just a little finishing and personalising to be done. I had someone yesterday say "Imagine how many people died in that?" My reply to him was "But imagine how many people were saved in her". I am an ex traffic cop so have zero concerns about greeblies and ghosties and I see an ambulance as a life saving and life giving vehicle.

[@frankc6790]

Only insight I can think of would be to add insulation to the all the wire connections that have anything to do with power, you don’t want a short due to moisture… just a thought, simple and cheap addition that can help prevent a big problem

[@rosalieogden479]

"They (drawers) sit still because they are built so bad." 😂 And that's is a good thing. I love it!

[@smokeyura]

Yes😁he is awesome! Thumbs up for doing it, definitely gives hope to others!

[@damuckster68x]

I think you did a fantastic job!!👍🏼

[@frankc6790]

Cool rig, looks like a perfect ride to take to the middle of nowhere for a weekend and have everything you need

[@DraconianMeasures]

This guy was hilarious and we really appreciated how well he explained everything from his setup to his mistakes

[@rosemarys.6504]

Love the video, old ambulance from volunteer EMS company is the best value, they are taken care of extremely well and washed down completely after each run, and are usually in heated clean bays when not in use. I'm retired EMS, our town replaces the 2 rigs every 8 years, 4 years apart.

[@serenakoleno9338]

Thanks for your information. Good to know.

[@patrickgriffin3162]

The button was a back up bell for the driver as his spotter would push the button & he would know it was clear to back up. At least that is the system we had here at University Hospital in Camden & Newark NJ

[@sandrastevens2793]

That's good to know. But now we have and need backup cameras.

[@geminiadventures8028]

That's exactly what the button was for Our units also had one inside the patient compartment in case the second EMT could not go outside to check the area. The "blackbox" would record and report when the vehicle was put in reverse and whether or not the button was pressed indicating the all-clear.

[@renaijoy5205]

*Oh my goodness it's full of beer!* 😆

[@Woodman_Custom_Sawing]

🤣🤣🤣

[@patrickalbert6383]

Full of beer and no water for dishwashing!

[@susanfudge1737]

He has his priorities straight.

[@taviancampanelli6039]

Absolutely sent me, my fucking life lmaoo

[@maehay4065]

I have been watching many videos with guys turning an ambulance into their tiny homes. Tom and yours is the prettiest one I’ve seen so far! Taking out the old stuff down to the studs and building it to fit your family’s needs. It’s truly beautiful looking. This would be awesome for taking trips and getting out of town would be refreshing. I am so happy for your family.👍

[@tommiller525]

Thank you

[@scottakahoshi715]

That button is similar to the ones we have on our fire engines to signal to the driver: 1- Stop 2- Forward 3- Reverse. Sitting in our Rescues, I always thought they could make a cool RV or Emergency Recreational Vehicle, great video.

[@spoiled4evaami]

You explained everything so well. This was a great vid to watch! I love the wood accents and how big your bed it. Man, there is si much storage in your rig! I love it! Great job buddy

[@robgindc1]

Such a cool build. And $10k all in? My mind is officially blown!

[@noshimoshi]

the cute dog is snoozing away while using the spare cushion as pillows

[@LilyBecca]

I do really like the built-in cabinets that come with the ambulances, but y9ur build looks much nicer.

[@twist-96]

That button on the back passenger side was for your backer! It set off a buzzer in the cab. So your man backing you up could hit it and it warned you to stop if you were about to hit something. The buzzer fell out of style but its making a comeback in newer rigs. Fantastic setup!!!

[@rb1179]

Definitely one of the better conversions I've come across. Awesome result.

[@tommiller525]

Thanks brother

[@highlightoftheday7058]

Love this build. I would say it's my favourite ambulance conversion. Thank you for sharing.

[@3sons66]

I'd agree with the very old late 80's - early 90's ambulances to tear to the studs. But these newer ones...whoa!! Everything is all connected!

[@patriciatusay1768]

I would have done a full bathroom in the desk area. Also a sink and electric stove unit and microwave. 100% ready for off grid

[@SaulGone613]

I would've kept the pass thru.

[@richardhenry1969]

Best build I've seen. Usually they don't make the ambulance look so good.

[@davidwrobel8089]

Sink and outdoor shower would complete your awesome setup. I like what you have done so far, thumbs up.

[@designdoctor247]

Totally inspiring!!!! My daughter and I dream of doing this to travel to see all the national parks ...a few each year. The way he talks...it makes it seem possible.

[@sandrastevens2793]

The parks are awesome. Did them with my family as a 12 year old cross country ×2. Been there done that as they say. Now I want one to go park on weekends in county and state parks. Need to get away with dogs on my own.

[@sandrastevens2793]

Just to add going cross country several different routes. Canada and Florida several times. Hit as many States with the best parks ad you can. Along the cost of California up to Seattle. And all through New England. Better education than being in school.

[@NoFretBrettCSSMBFF]

@@sandrastevens2793... sounds like that is the **coast** of a good (enough) education **as** one needs... #AwlWeighsPeruFreedYoreCalmMintsBeeFourPoeStingSimPullMissSteaks... #YoreOttoCoreWreckedDozenTwerkSewWill... JestSayin'... [Typed with YT-Approved SarcasmFont...]

[@keluvnme]

Anything is possible. Go for it!

[@purselmer5931]

Dude, you NAILED it. Beautiful.

[@keithdmaust1854]

Rig and video both assembled with perfection. Thanks!

[@tomwilliam5118]

Out of all the videos I've watched this makes a lot of sense just to gut the ambulances rebuild

[@27noellehuff]

I love this guy’s personality; explained everything really well. That missile launch flip!!! Nice.... And Boomer likes his spot eh?! Stoked for he and his familia! Awesome remodel for sure!

[@serenakoleno9338]

This would be great for a Tiny House I didn't want to move a lot. Would be sturdy through storms, etc. Personally I would want easier access to the cab. I am guessing you are or were firefighter. I am going to steal your folding steps if I can figure out how to improvise. Love your condiments shelf. Necessity is the mother of invention! I pray you stay safe and have many happy adventures and once son grow up meet you two on the road!

[@tommiller525]

Thank you. Yes I’m a volunteer in a small rural Dept. The steps are by Little Giant. As far as the pass-thru goes, I don’t miss it. The back is totally independent. We rarely need in the cab once we’re parked and there is plenty of egress via the side door, back doors, and (god forbid) side windows. We’re not trapped in a box. Take care. 😁👍

[@mello1381]

You did a great job. The maple countertops are beautiful!

[@tommiller525]

good eye

[@davidvantulder4770]

This is simply an awesome build. I’m glad to see somebody finally put folding steps on the outside of their rig! The interior is beautiful and nice Aslan sticker too. Good on you brother!

[@tommiller525]

Good eye. I bought the fridge at a freight salvage place. The sticker is covering a tiny dent.

[@davidvantulder4770]

@TomMiller Thats smart and funny. I just started building out an ambo in the bellingham area. Would you mind pointing me towards that freight salvage place?

[@davidvantulder4770]

Hi again @Tom Miller. I've been trying to insure my ambulance for a while now and I can't get anyone who will cover it. Can you please tell me how you did it? This would be such a huge help

[@user-vm5ud4xw6n]

I would love to have an ambulance but I don’t have the health I need to really go at it and deck it out the way I want. Great build. Love everything you’ve done to it. The only problem I would have would be the long hood. At 5’2” it’s difficult for me to see over the hood but my choice would definitely be an ambulance!

[@juanitaskelton448]

Very nice interior and exterior...looks safe and sound too!

[@bigdean4058]

You have changed my mind on the bus theory, love this can go anywhere idea height cold be a problem but I can over come it I think

[@danielsaraolu5343]

wow, nice job. Tons of work but an awesome result that moves you anywhere comfortable and reliable at very affordable price.

[@tommiller525]

Thank you.

[@marvinandjosh1]

I couldn't do it not being able to stand up but this is a cool design!

[@wendyg4575]

They do make 72" height - 6ft

[@innerstream]

This vid just kept getting better. So many cool features! Best ladder ever! You can still dance on the top no problem! 😎congrats on a great rig!

[@sandrastevens2793]

I agree not at all noticeable. Have to keep that info handy.

[@suzannecranford6819]

That ladder IS awesome!

[@Salkelds]

I am just happy to see the S'more box made the video :-) Good to see your hard work on display Tom!

[@candiceveal3329]

It is a button you can press when you use a backer. Ambulances used to be equipped with a safety system called road rescue and it would give you marks for backing without using a backer. So the second man on the crew would have to push the button so the system can tell you used a backer.

[@shellbellexx3]

What an amazing build !! The “Fambulance” is incredible. Does Tom intend to plumb it ? For someone with little to no carpentry skills he nailed it !! 😜

[@NoFretBrettCSSMBFF]

#EyeSeaWattEweDidTheir...

[@suzannecranford6819]

Awesome! It's so roomy, AND all that storage! I love the counter top, too. Great interior design and use of space . Well done.

[@kerncod22]

This guy seems like a fun guy to camp with

[@jenky1044]

I think it's wonderful. You did a great job. I would have to have one I could stand up in and I wouldn't want to spend a rainy weekend with a dog in such a small area. But for 2 people, it looks great. Well done. Best Regards

[@SaintMolotov]

Love this build. All of that outside storage is sweet.

[@janemonroe289]

I love the inside and the wood counter tops are beautiful!!!

[@sophanarachay4917]

I like the couch with the liquor cabinet.

[@larryrobertson2150]

Looks good. I would never have guessed you put in under $10,000.

[@davewenners6722]

I love this build. It looks like you have so much more room

[@BronzeBellaBria]

Never seen an ambulance conversion before. So interesting.

[@riftalope]

I've only seen one ambulance conversion do something about the height issue, but it was in an old 1980's magazine.(Automotive Weekly?) The top was converted into a tent top with four trapezoid beds folding off from a raised roof. I saw a downside in that folded left only center lights and the attached padding.

[@tommiller525]

We debated raising the roof and forgoing the roof rack. In the end it was about clearance and utility. The steep slope on the front of the rack helps clear low branches so they don’t come in contact with the solar panels.

[@smileycamel5635]

Nice job Tom, thank you for sharing your build.

[@abigailandino6251]

Fambulance. Love the name 😀

[@gregoryfortenberry741]

Brother that with out a doubt, best b. O. V. On the tube. Great job

[@tommiller525]

Wow! Thanks, man. That’s a high bar. 😁👍

[@NancyH25]

Great advice on starting with an ambulance because it’s a square box. I love that you gave your wife her 5’2” & 3/4”...😂 it’s obviously been a bone of contention for her. Also, I’m not sure how Canada knew you even had liquor on board but great tip. 😂

[@tommiller525]

I joke that a woman under 5’3” who gives her height in round numbers is lying. They know that number to the eighth. 😆

[@jackie6189]

So cool!!! Great tour, happy camping. BLESSINGS

[@lillypatience]

He’s funny! I like the milk crate restriction.

[@Michaelw777.52]

Good solution to a pesky problem.

[@CashIsKing_UseItOrLoseIt]

Very nice and love the live edge slabs. P.s. and the Glenlivet 12, a man after my own heart. I mean this guy... This is the guy.

[@cathyp1000]

This was just such a great video! Makes me want a Fambulance.

[@James-zg2nl]

Inspiring. Loved the advice at the end to beginners starting out. Like you, I only have a beginners level of craftsmanship knowledge/skill. Cheers

[@dinavillagran563]

Congratulations you did an awesome job ...

[@tonoy1956]

Great sewing job

[@terristewart6119]

Great rig! Thank you for the tour!

[@adventureswithgnomie6553]

Most have a long cabinet that is accessible from outside and inside - it's just big enough for a shower with a tank less hot water heater. Earth Medic buys Ambu's and builds them out. Once you manage to sanitize the inside you have good bones to with. Cabinets, water, heavy-duty alternator, house batteries, mini fridge. It's just a matter of using your creativity to turn it into your vision.

[@CoolWater01]

Love it. And by the way my fridge would be full of beer too.

[@cherylcallahan5402]

🌻 Tiny Home Tour's 🌻 appreciate your videos 🌟Listening from Mass USA🌟Hello🌟everyone🌻

[@rhondawileman1466]

Best of health to you and your loved ones! Greetings from a lil south of you in central Pennsylvania! Have a wonderful day! ✌🏻💚🙋💙🤘🏻

[@cherylcallahan5402]

@@rhondawileman1466 Love PA family cousin's live there. Hiya ty Blessings

[@rhondawileman1466]

@@cherylcallahan5402 Yes, it is some beautiful country here! Thank you for the kind words! Blessings to you and your family as well! ✌🏻💙🙋🤘🏻

[@sharonsteele8915]

Nice setup and totally organized.. love it.. would be great for a single person..

[@Itmonolith]

Hi Tom. Great looking rig. I just bought a 1994 f350 ambulance (sadly not 4x4) and am looking for a bunch of ideas. Thanks for them.

[@jcz232321]

WOW! Awesome simplicity!

[@icouldbeevil3110]

That's such a cool set-up you have!!

[@AR-dm7ze]

Incredible! I love it! Terrific job!

[@coolchange1970]

Awesome build!! Thanks for sharing 😁

[@LaneyandherGermanShepherds]

Awesome! I want one!!

[@gracecallowayable]

Wow!!! Gorgeous!!!👠🚌👠

[@DeborahLong7777]

You did a master craftsman job sir ! I could live in this for sure ! Better than a van because it is square yes, retired vehicle's are the best as they take care of them!!! I will follow you on Instagram. Blessing's from Texas USA ❤✌

[@MissEmmyluv]

Nice build congrats

[@rogerchristmas9606]

Really nice. Nothing fancy ,but very sharp. Thanks for the tour.

[@kellymartin3624]

Fridge full of beer... And a liquor cabinet! They are set. 😂

[@PeaceJourney...]

Genius build, nicely done sir. I'd have to have an alternative, tho, not as many ppl die in a school bus as they do in an ambulance, and I have an allergy to ghosts.

[@DeborahLong7777]

Lol. I hear you and the blood of Jesus will make them flee ! I certainly would strip it down completely and anoint it, eviction notice to whoever is hanging around ✌🕊

[@Sunshine-Dragon]

I doubt ghost would hang out in an ambulance, they've much better places to haunt people. 🤣

[@coratheexplorer1824]

Your van is so pretty

[@tommiller525]

Thank you

[@tyler4081]

This is awesome, my ambulance is a 95 chevy but the box is identical, however has much more of the origanal componets.

[@RebeccaAnnSinkula]

So cute! I love it. Well done, Tom. :) Thanks for sharing!

[@gustavgunz1877]

Lit shit just straight saying we are weekend warriors. Nice

[@como5555]

a very nice build...

[@abigailandino6251]

If they ever have to bug out they have a fridge full of beer. Who is this family and how can I join? 😂

[@jdaftw]

The button is part of the Road Safety system, when backing up the spotter is supposed to press it and it alerts the computer know someone is spotting, there should also be a button on the inside in the event there is not a external spotter.

[@SIR_GLIZZY]

Nice cozy place im living in my car at the moment actually 😌 but im thinking of moving into a gmc suburban

[@rhondawileman1466]

Wishing you all the best Joey Wick! Also, best of health to you and your loved ones! ✌🏻🙋💙🤗🤘🏻

[@SIR_GLIZZY]

@@rhondawileman1466 thank you and likewise it's just a small sacrifice for a brighter future

[@rhondawileman1466]

@@SIR_GLIZZY You're very welcome! ✌🏻🙋🤘🏻

[@brownrecluse3772]

Your tag states you are in WA. I live in WA, too! But, why is it so nice out in your video in Dec?! (Unless, you filmed in some other state.) Very good set up!!

[@tommiller525]

Good eye. We filmed in November. Editing took a bit.

[@linacabrera3172]

Very nicely done!👌

[@melissacash6428]

Nice build and would be prefect for me only being 4'10 😂! Great job on it

[@tommiller525]

Yeah. You’d have room for creative hairstyles and hats. 😁

[@melissacash6428]

@@tommiller525 😂🤣 definitely

[@markreynolds3850]

Very nice camper.

[@tommiller525]

Thanks Mark.

[@drwheycooler8423]

The buttons on the back are for your partner/spotter when you are backing up. Let's the driver know it's safe to reverse/stop.

[@philmickey7247]

VERY nice! Well thoughtful interview! Thank you!👍

[@michaellippmann4474]

Awesome build man! Mike👍😁🇨🇦

[@billylacount6608]

Awesome job buddy

[@paultennis9569]

Great build enjoy it

[@kenmatthews6476]

Clean as can be.

[@sandrastevens2793]

I like your rustic. And the bed. I am doing same with my town. Ford diesel duel wheels.

[@sandrastevens2793]

I can stand and a 5'10 can also 6'2" has to stoop a little. Less than 18k miles 2005. Ford I would not gut. I use what is there defeats purpose. I hope it will work out!

[@sandrastevens2793]

Question you gutted to studs. Does that include the insulation. One of the big benefits having insulation. Built like a tank and out side storage. Like your roof and solar mount. The one I am looking at had its own heater and a/c. It must have a vent/fan system. If not then maybe a roof fan. But that other brand name.

[@tommiller525]

I recycled the insulation, but wish I’d done more. Cold travels through the aluminum. I noticed it a lot when painting this winter and the paint wouldn’t set up where the studs are. The Fambulance had AC and heater in back, but they were plumbed to the engine. Essentially, as an ambulance the engine is always running. As a camper, the lay thing I wanted was a Diesel engine running in the woods. Plus all that extra hose felt like opportunities for failure. Less moving pieces means less headaches. 😁👍

[@shaneanderson8358]

Very cool. I’ve been watching many rig builds and this has to be a top favourite 🤟🏼 Cheers

[@wendyg4575]

I sell ambulances so this is great! I have been selling to a lot more people nowadays for camper conversions. I have been wanting to do one myself!

[@jiujitsuwynn]

Do you have a website?

[@NoFretBrettCSSMBFF]

HitMeUp... I am in the market...

[@bonnie9559]

How to get more info? Looking for one asap! Will fly in for pick up!

[@lass-inangeles7564]

FYI 4:43 - Already 3 ads, and one of them forced to the end. Too many ads. Not good. Fantastic van build, truly superb! Looks so much like a home. There was this guy who built a walk in shower very cleverly where the desk is now sitting. It also allowed quick access to cab area to drive off. Toilet was tucked in on right side of passageway. Get a sink in soon. That is very handy. Amazon has great deals. Question: When you removed the aluminum cabinets, were they easy to unhook from a metal strip on wall and remount if needed, or fused to wall? I would like to maintain the aluminum cabinets - much lighter than wood and less work. The electrical set up - was it easy to understand the wiring? Did you have to get help from the paramedics to figure it out? That is really the guts of an RV. I am curious how you made sense of that mass of wires. The battery connection from engine battery to house battery in case engine one dies - I have the same on my Class C. I am assuming you cannot use Lithium batteries if you are connected to an AGM Lead Acid battery in engine? Beautiful job, Tom! I was inspired. It is so spacious and liveable. Thanks for the tour!

[@tommiller525]

Hi. The cabinets ARE difficult to remove. No question. They were welded, glued, riveted, and/or screwed to the frame or each other. I respect what you’re saying about weight, but function took precedence for me. Everything is still built with weight in mind. There’s not a 2x4 in it. The sink will come. The live edge is a reasonably new addition and I’m hesitant to cut into them.

[@lass-inangeles7564]

@@tommiller525 If you do cut into the live edge slab, use the cut piece as a sink cover.

[@tommiller525]

@@lass-inangeles7564 Good Call. The slab is so thick. I really don't know how to cut a clean hole in it.

[@PugZDesigns]

Loved it Tom

[@the_katman2181]

i love it. Great job.