broken down on our first trip...

[@Lorelly5]

I’m stoked that you’ve got a really cool ambulance-tiny home conversion- love love love It - I think this is the perfect rig of size and comfort for you and Terra - 🎉❤ excellent choice - don’t worry about the downs of bit of a breakdown- any home can cost money and you’re already ahead with the cozy cabin interior already done so it makes it almost move in ready and you can make it yours with your personal tastes - love the safety, the structural integrity of it in the outback forests of your travels & definitely more bear resistant too with tons of outside compartments for hardware garage supplies and for solar cabinet or propane and water with individual access doors - they are great for overlanding and rooftop deck area star gazing times and solar mats great for giving you and Terra some walkable lounge space - keep your chin up any vehicle at first buy can cost at least $1000. To get it up and running - no sweat - you can rise above and do it don’t get discouraged

[@nmfirelover]

I hope you sage the ish out of that old ambulance! As an EMT, a lot happens in those rigs when in use.

[@Ah022]

Thank you! I’ve always said “I have no idea how anyone can happily live in these knowing what happens in them.” Maybe I’m just too sensitive about it but I couldn’t do it. No hate on it btw! It’s just not something I could do.

[@SheRoamsWild]

I’ll be doing something! Luckily it was never a “full” time ambulance, it was just backup transportation for a fire rescue squad - in my mind at least, it’s a little better 😅

[@chrisheilman2128]

I am SO glad your tow truck driver was a very good driver! Attentive! That trip could have been so much worse. And so glad you didn't lose that tire while you were driving. I look forward to watching your build. Great to have new projects. Hope you were able to get home and wind down. Things can only get better ☺️💕

[@rosemaryguyton9835]

Agreed.

[@HensOnly]

Beautiful rig and I hope you can get her fixed up just like new! Glad the tow truck drivers were looking out for you and taking precautions. Can't wait to see what you can do with this rig!

[@Evergreen...920]

I'm so glad you weren't driving when the wheel(s) came off, that would've been terrible. I am stoked to see how this build goes and all the adventures you will get to have in it!

[@Jenevershed]

Sorry for the mishap but super excited for you getting an even roomier rig! I cannot wait to see what is to come.

[@ilka340]

Nice that you can walk from the front into the back. Box frames are easier to build inside.

[@Lozenhimer]

don't worry...you'll LOVE the ambulance eventually. looks like a good base start for what you have planned. don't get discouraged. it'll work out.

[@D_R_Martin]

I look forward to seeing how you tranform this rig. You always do a great job. I wish you all the best in getting the engine issues taken care of.

[@jomicheleseidl2033]

My gawd. I feel so bad for you. This is especially disappointing after having a reliable Toyota truck as your last rig. It makes me mad too, at the people who sold it to you and the shop that supposedly looked it over for issues and safety. If you're buying this on contract, you might have a limited number of days to cancel the deal. Colorado does have buyer's remorse laws and you could get details online or from a lawyer, maybe even your bank or credit union. I'm so sorry. At least the tow truck drivers gave you honest service.

[@tammyoverton2518]

I bought an ambulance a few years ago! Simple build for now. Same great engine!!

[@lindagiorgio6058]

That felt like one of those, if it weren't for bad luck I'd have no luck at all days. Sorry for all the problems, but I know this is going to be beautiful once you put your touches to it. I have often thought of getting a box truck or and ambulance to convert, so I'm looking forward to your conversion. See you next time.

[@robertnonaka8701]

Hats off to you for taking on another build. You did great on the last one. Can’t wait to see your new adventures in this one!

[@debbiemorales344]

Your patience amazes me😂you’re such a champ👍🏻Nice rig!!

[@SheRoamsWild]

thank you Debbie! Hope you are all doing well :)

[@terib6166]

Nice rig and I'm looking forward to watching you rebuild the rig. Sorry it isn't starting out as you would like. Keep the positive thoughts.

[@estherlongly6557]

💕 Wow! Craziness! An excellent tow driver! 👏 So thankful you both are okay! 🙏

[@petra6099]

Wish you all the best!❤

[@conchscooter]

We had to call a tow in Ecuador last month for what turned out to be an easy fix (a fuel line on our Promaster came unclipped). For $150 he got us back to the campground and put us back exactly in our spot. The two of us and our dog rode in the van and got spectacular views of the Andes from on top of the truck bed. No liability nuisance in South America. Cheers from Peru this week. Looking forward to the Ford being finished.

[@gaudywidget]

wow! Glad you guys are ok!

[@felinetherapy4782]

Wow - good the wheel didn't fall off when you where driving! Looks great - pity that the wood is so heavy. But you will make it even nicer.

[@kabuti2839]

check the camshaft position sensor

[@1FAST91SONOMA]

I used 2" R13.1 boards in my suburban build. Don't settle for R10, the difference in price is negligible. 30% more insulation is a significant improvement

[@terrysparger1979]

Good luck...going to be a good one just going to take time! Oh yeah and aloooooot of hard work😊 Blessing from Texas

[@berilmurray9879]

Wow, I am so excited for you Alex, a great vehicle which you will make really nice and comfortable. I can’t wait to see what you do with it. Good for you! 😊

[@danielvanmourik]

beuatiful new video and wow te van looks good.

[@ryderwyatt5970]

Glad to finally see the outside. After following ALL your builds, this will be your CROWNING ACHIEVEMENT for sure. You are so smart, brave, flexible, adaptable, courageous, and clever we cannot wait for the unveiling of your new project & happy to be along for the ride. Thanks for the adventure from those of us who no longer travel. You’re a treasure!

[@martincardone5727]

Nice rig, too bad the seller was not truthful when selling. You're now driving as close to a commercial truck without it being one. Rule # 1 is driver's precheck, especially the lugs. There is a high vis lug nut indicator you can install that will let you know if one becomes loose (still need to do a walk around your rig). Also get yourself a Milwaukee 18v impact gun, 3' pry bar, a good 20-ton bottle neck jack and heavy blocks of wood for tire changes. Good luck

[@janetwheeler4210]

Thanks 🙏

[@michelleellis8201]

Thank goodness you and Tara were able to find a tow. The rig looks nice and I know you will make it amazing! Can’t wait to see more. Praying that the repairs are a quick, inexpensive, easy fix! Take care! 😊🙏❤️

[@andiwinter18]

A new build! Collect ‘em all 😅 good luck

[@Chrissy-Stormgal]

Im so excited for your new build and your new travel adventures!!!❤❤❤

[@lorrilj7289]

Thank goodness you broke down! Driving and having a wheel pop off would have been scary and dangerous for you and anyone else on the road. Great tow truck driver for seeing that in his side mirror!

[@itscarolinemary]

I hope there won't be future issues 🫶 I suppose it can be inevitable but wishing you & your rig the best!

[@paengsolo2047]

I trust your hands on this new build. 😮

[@gracerodriguez6869]

This sucks, but it will be ok, so happy they were able to tow you

[@RealProVanR]

Love the Ambo.

[@jannapeters8506]

Sweet rig. That is some good but heavy wood. Good luck and Happy Trails.

[@enchantedeastcoast]

Oh my gosh, what a nightmare. So sorry you had so many issues on the dry run! Hope it's not too bad to get it fixed up, and looking forward to see what you do with it. Also...wtf @ the folks that sold you this. I might be having a few conversations with them...

[@SheRoamsWild]

haha I agree! not feeling super stoked on the place I bought it from, and I really hope that things are simple and not too costly to fix...but we shall see!

[@marcialovejoy9926]

Sorry that you had a breakdown on your first trip. Great idea to fix up an ambulance. The wood is absolutely beautiful but to heavy. I sure hope you have no more issues for sometime or never.

[@eyeswideopen7450]

6:20 outdoor and sports gear comportment!

[@beccafichtner5305]

Yeah... I almost lost a wheel that way. Always need to manually tighten those lug nuts.

[@TheDogsBox]

Camshaft Position Sensor is the most common thing. Stoked to see someone else join the Ambo community.

[@jaystewart9947]

I’ll second this due to it being a 7.3 PS. I was thinking the same. I always carried a spare in the glovebox

[@jaystewart9947]

Like another subscriber said I’m thinking cam position sensor. Relatively cheap and easy to change. I always kept a spare in the glovebox. Great engines when they’re purring, I mean “clattering” 😊

[@SheRoamsWild]

thank you! I will have to look into that. I dont think that it is anything catastrophic - no smoke, no rough riding or noises, just a slow and steady drive to roll to a stop haha hopefully it is something so simple!

[@GK49245]

Glad you are safe. Sorry for the troubles, but you are handling this well. Looks like a solid ambulance platform upon which to build an home. Hoping that your resolution isn’t too expensive. Look forward to your next chapter.

[@sacredstonecards9051]

Iam so sorry 😢

[@anneimhof5118]

So sorry this happened to you! Hoping it is a small issue. You were very lucky that it broke down, before the wheel came off. All the best, can’t wait to hear what the prob,em was with the engine.

[@Banagal]

I call these "Things that make you say, OH MY!" The ambulance has potential, and I'm sure you'll make it beautiful and valuable. I agree with your idea to reduce the base build weight. I'll be watching for part 2.

[@debbiesmith7151]

Good luck with the build, and hopefully it is just a minor repair! Love watching how you build and all the hard work you put into them. ❤

[@cherrygaisford9810]

Oh you poor thing. You were unlucky and lucky at the same time. It will all work out eventually. Like your new rig.

[@kitaoden703]

Sorry That happened glad everyone is safe and lug nuts yikes

[@neighborlyfiend1484]

I just got my first converted van, its a box van. Im excited and scared as hell. thank you for sharing.

[@pameladavies337]

So sorry for all your trouble with this new rig. Hope the issues are easily solved.

[@stevec2665]

Sorry for your troubles, looks like a cool rig. Just for your information, dried pine boards are fairly light in weight, not nearly as weighty as a hard wood board. In case you did want to reuse them. I think a gloss urethane over knotted pine boards look awesome. But of course it's your baby. 🙂

[@donaldjensenii4817]

Good luck

[@paulamorris3138]

Cool rig! Hope it's an easy fix!

[@sherimcknight8984]

As a matter of fact this is my first video of yours . Sad your broke down. You'll get it taken care of I'm sure

[@alvinmousseau1100]

Awesome video

[@kirinketsz75]

sorry about the ambulance break down. i hope you get it working or find something more reliable

[@jasonjones5213]

Looks like it's going to be a nice rig after you get everything fixed.Really not a bad price and low miles for a diesel.

[@MartinWilsey]

Sheesh! Murphy's Law!

[@ladikmk]

Really don't know what to say other than I'm sending you a virtual hug, and hope that everything works out. The tow company you used definitely was looking out for you, unlike the seller of your new rig. Chin up Alexandria - tomorrow is a new day.

[@ShamimJahuri]

So proud of you.i feel for you,I am for you.shamim 👋💑💞👫✌💔👏💗🎎🦢🕊🆗️

[@phosawelonewolf2886]

Maybe that’s why your ambo broke down. You could have been driving and lost your wheel. Something’s happen for a reason.💜

[@simply.leen.]

Sucked that the engine broke down so soon but I'm sort of relieved for you that it did. The thought of the lug nuts coming off while you would have been driving is a scary thought! I wondered if you might consider an ambulance as your next rig - I think once you get that engine fixed up it'll be a great rig for you and Terra. Hope the fix is quick and inexpensive!

[@cherylmckay9347]

Wow you were so lucky. I know that sounds crazy but imagine if both had happened where you had no phone coverage!? It's a horrible feeling but you're both okay and the wheel issue is an easy fix. I hope the other issue is too. Best of luck. I'm sending you good vibes ❤

[@Bananabagel123]

Once again, only person I ever see talking about weight of the builds! I’m honestly so stoked to see you build something again. I found you a couple months ago and binged most of your videos. You are a super hero girl! Are you still completing school? I can’t remember your timeline for that! :)

[@SheRoamsWild]

haha it is so important! plus, who wants to spend more money on gas? (not me!). I start school here in a few weeks, and thankfully chose a program that is flexible and can be completed remotely, no matter where I am in the world :)

[@Bananabagel123]

@@SheRoamsWild oh that’s amazing! Well still looking forward to seeing what you do!

[@Propworn]

By the way, 130,000 miles is not a lot for an ambulance, most have much more than that. Many have the odometer roll over at least once. Quick check is to look at the odometer and all the numbers should be dead straight in line. Lined up perfectly like your dads' car. Compare them. If they are misaligned at all, it usually means the odometer has rolled over once or someone has reversed the input cable to lower the mileage. In that case, the original mileage might be significantly higher. Another key thing is not so much the mileage on that 7.3 but the number of hours of operation. Not trying to rain on your parade but know what you are getting into before putting more money into it. There are many used ambulances out there, how many do you see converted for live aboards.

[@SheRoamsWild]

agreed! it is a true 130k, with low operational hours as well. I have had a powerstroke specialist go over it all since this video, and with a few minor swaps (replacing an old wiring harness and a new IDM), we are good to go. The engine is in GREAT shape and was only ever used in service for 45k miles over 15 years before being sold to someone to use as a camper. Since it was backup rig for fire rescue, in theory it wasn't driven quite as hard as city rigs - but only time will tell I guess!

[@ruebennomura9143]

Aloha from Hawaii just watch your video you did a good job on this video

[@CraftsmanontheLake]

There are a few people with power strokes doing van/truck living online that I follow. They tout the strength and longevity of the engines but I swear, it seems like every other video is about a breakdown. The issue is with a small part stops the truck from running or a $2000-$4000 repair.

[@Desertvanlife]

I have 423ooo on my 7.3 1998......once you get the bugs out you should be fine

[@SheRoamsWild]

heck yeah! that is why I looked into them in the first place..I am really hoping that it is just a matter of missed maintenance, needing a new filter, etc. as nothing "catastrophic" happened during the breakdown. So, fingers crossed!

[@Planet2A]

What did I miss?, last week was a subaru and an apartment. That thing looks huge congrats. On another note, you could easily make money doing builds, all of your builds have been very well put together as I am sure this one will be.

[@aaronriedel5372]

Good video!

[@tommurray2653]

Hi Alex sorry you had a rough first outing. Good ob the tow driver catching sight of the rear wheel before ir left "home". These arw great vehicles once you get any new to you bugs worked out. On the fuel mileage subject about 10 mpg is close to what you xan expect. The idea of frying to lighten up the base weight of the build is a wise plan . Having a fuel budget is necessary. Only plan to travel the miles that you can afford is the sensible plan. Take any diesel maintenance that you can access and afford. Knowledge is power. Always carry extra fuel filters and be able to change them on the road. Diesels have their advantages but also require extra patience and love. One good example is to learn that they REQUIRE extra warm up AND cool down. When you pull up a long mountain pass for example NEVER pull into a parkibg lot abd turn the engine off immediately. You will KILL the turbo by cooking the bearings. Leave the engine idling long enough for the turbo to cool down . The goal is NOT to save fuel, it is to PROTECT your equipment. Sorry for being "long" winded Alex . I an only trying to give you good guidence As a retired truck driver i have a love of diesel engines. Good luck in getting your "rig" sorted out. Have a nice day Tom up in Canada in the Maritimes at the NB-NS border

[@tomwall8403]

Sorry about the breakdown. That's just bad luck. I REALLY like the interior woodworking. Oh... I guess that much wood is kind of heavy. 😞 AND the tire nearly fell off!!! I hope this all works out OK. Good Luck.🤞👍🚑🚑🚑

[@Propworn]

If you added up the money spent on breakdowns of your used vehicle rescues, you most likely could have bought close to new and avoided old car syndrome.

[@SheRoamsWild]

haha you might be right there! If I had the income for a newer rig, I might consider it, but at this point I am just trying to find something that is in my price range and reliable enough - with an emergency fund to boot just in case :)

[@eyeswideopen7450]

Interisting to see the interior height! Most US Ambulances i have seen have pretty low roof.

[@louisstrowger8807]

Sorry you had those issues so early but to be honest had the engine not died those tires likely would have come off on the road and who knows the damage they would have done. I'd definitely have a discussion with the shop you got it from.

[@LastChanceTinyHouse]

Alex, what's the odometer read on your 7.3 v Power stroke, I have one too and their not that tough to work on. You should get a code reader at a parts store. Check your power fuses. when you turn the key does anything happen. There's a sh*t load of 7.3 power stroke fans.

[@Victoria-Harrington]

@She Roams Wild you are only an hour from me. I’m so sorry this happened. That is so stressful for you and your puppy.

[@iamgrowler]

It looks like you have a lot of real estate on the roof for solar, storage and maybe even a deck.

[@henryfergen4254]

Got a flat bed tow driver & can help you move the rig if you need any help. In Colorado

[@Sam-do3tt]

OMG how annoying. I have to admit id be taking it back to where you bought it from. Naughty sellers... much love ❤

[@SheRoamsWild]

I was feeling somewhat similarly at first, but ultimately they ended up being extremely stand up sellers and covered the cost of the tow and repairs :) they didn't have to do that, but it was so kind of them, and at the end it really did help how I felt about the whole situation!

[@dee-here-now]

Excited to see what you do with this! Does this mean no grad school, or will this be your home *during* grad school? Do you regret selling the Bigfoot/Tundra or were you ready for a new rig either way?

[@SheRoamsWild]

Thank you! I will be starting classes in late August, and still intend on completing my Masters, so this would be my home during! And as nice as the Bigfoot was, for full-time living, working, and school, AND considering the bigger adventures I want to get out on, the Bigfoot wasn't going to be the perfect rig for our future adventures regardless...as rad as it was! It was bittersweet saying goodbye, but I don't regret selling it at all :)

[@tbotiOG]

It’s a bad omen take the truck back. Get your money back. If it’s breaking the first day, it’s gonna be a money pit of problems as time goes on.

[@SheRoamsWild]

Oof, you could be right! Looking forward to hearing what the mechanic says, and going from there...so we shall see!

[@emilpearson9094]

I can keep you company until you get help sometime

[@PeterAlfonso]

I hope the previous owner didn't clear the check engine light code before they sold it to you and hide any issues.

[@wise_guy4230]

You got a solid tow guy, but wherever you bought that from is due a lawsuit, if the law is anything like it is in my state.

[@nereidgreen6653]

I thought Tara was a girlfriend of yours! You’ve got plenty of wood to knock on. That amb is way too heavy. Glad your parents could come in clutch.

[@Laura1221]

So this will eventually b for full time? If so, I wondered how long you’d b able to stay put in an apartment. Looking forward to your build.

[@carojustcaro1]

Murphy bed? And keep the passage to the back doors open?

[@eprohoda]

how’s life?- professional footage~

[@vanish2737]

I have the same rig. If you need any help or have questions let me know.

[@DJ63phx]

One strike. 2 strike all you need is number 3 and you got all your bad luck out of the way. But holy cow, you're lucky. You're gonna lose that tire while you're driving? I guarantee what happened? I bet you have water in your fuel. And that's why your engine shut down

[@Marky-pen]

You know the spare is just a tyre not a spare wheel right?

[@JeremyAnthony-w2r]

You should have kept the tundra

[@SheRoamsWild]

I miss it some days, for sure! Ultimately though, it wasn't going to be the best fit for us with the adventures we want to go on in the near future, but it was a BEAST, and reliable at that.

[@JeremyAnthony-w2r]

@@SheRoamsWild was the frame rusted on it? They're known for that. There's a recall on them.

[@SheRoamsWild]

@@JeremyAnthony-w2r it had rust, but nothing too terrible! Mainly just needed some WD-40 to get extra stuck bolts off :)

[@JeremyAnthony-w2r]

@SheRoamsWild did they find the problem with the ambulance? Just asking.

[@SheRoamsWild]

@user-my8tp5ok7f they haven’t even gotten to look at it yet 😅

[@leopold19]

Are u keeping ur apartment still ! It is very nice shame to give it up

[@DavidPaxton-tj1wt]

What kind of diesel engine does it have in it?

[@SheRoamsWild]

The 7.3L V8 :)

[@WilliamDail]

OUCH!!!!

[@ilka340]

Do you still have your car?

[@jeannehamilton6237]

❤❤❤