Ford Transit Connect Camper Conversion For Under $500!

[@ShawNshawN]

I think this is a great option for long road trips and test out vanlife if you want to dip the toes without losing a shirt.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Shawn! It's done really good on the last couple trips I've taken. Might be heading to TN next week!

[@roscop.coaltrain9440]

Use reflective sound deadening insulation on the inside. Its self stick and will improve road noise and help regulate the temp. Then black out curtain behind the driver seat

[@CobraKyle]

I was looking at Reflectix. Heard it works pretty good!

[@roscop.coaltrain9440]

@@CobraKyle I also put that reflectic garage door insulation too, before the toung and grove paneling

[@saxmanzzz]

I enjoyed your video - it was entertaining and informative. I like the simplicity of the fit-out of your van - the magnetic hooks and shelves are an excellent idea

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks so much! Those shelves work great at night for holding my phone/keys and water. I like how simple this van is too.

[@trevorschnedler4472]

I'm a simple man. I see a cobra Kyle video, I click :) I drove a buddy to Idaho last summer and took their transit 250 van back home. It was very nice. The drivetrain and suspension were superb for a van. Also 25mpg on that thing is killer!

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Trevor! I just drove this up to Colorado a couple days ago and it performed great. Struggled a bit coming up the mountain roads, but I expected that with a tiny 4 cylinder.

[@arroyobaby38]

Love what you did with your van. I love keeping things simple!!! This is the van that I want :) Just subscribed!!

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks for subscribing! It's still serving me well. I'll be adding in a couple other small items, but still as simple.

[@arroyobaby38]

Cobra Kyle -Kool!! Be safe out there!! 👍🏽

[@la_old_salt2241]

Kyle what you've done with your van is exactly what I want for myself. God bless, Rob

[@M1P1954]

I have a 2018 Transit Connect. I added pvc panels on the sides, the sliding doors and ceiling. All surfaces were sound proofed and insulated with 3M Thinsulate. I added a folding cot that measures 25” wide with storage below. This gave me the room for my Yamaha TW200 dual sport and a ramp. I love the setup so far. Good luck with your build. Mine is my daily driver, my longest road trip is a round trip from Wisconsin to Florida.

[@CobraKyle]

That's awesome you can fit a dirt bike in it! Would you say the insulation made a drastic difference? So far I haven't felt the need to do it in mine, but I've also been travelling to mild climates. I can't see myself ever travelling to say Alaska or camping when it's super hot, but maybe someday.

[@M1P1954]

Cobra Kyle I feel the van is much quieter with the sound proofing and insulation. I don’t really feel the insulation made a big difference except it does keep the interior from big temperature swings and keeping condensation to a minimum when using a tent heater in the van. The pvc panels protect the sides and ceiling of the van from handlebars ends or other objects that could dimple the thin sheet metal of the body. Plus help with sound proofing and the look of the interior. Like you I wanted the van to be much like a utility belt, to keep the options and flexibility of the van’s space to fit my needs for whatever occasion may arise. Have fun, enjoy the ride!

[@roscop.coaltrain9440]

I have the same van. I use mine for part time camping. The lack of space can be challenging but perfect for how I use it.

[@metalmeister1976]

EXACTLY the vehicle and setup I am about to buy for my mountain bike weekend adventures. Love the minimal setup, exactly how I pictured mine would be. Subscribed!

[@CobraKyle]

Right on! Glad this video was helpful. This setup has been so good to me, and saved me thousands on trips. I love it

[@mt.bikeher270]

As a fellow mt. biker I appreciate your "most important" cargo being your bike. :) Thanks for the thorough review. Love that it has its own hot spot, thanks for pointing that out.

[@oklahotb3217]

Pro Tip: spray paint the reflex flat black. The shininess will cause the interior to light up from any external light source. Quite annoying at night when you are trying to sleep

[@CobraKyle]

Great idea! Might give that a go.

[@angeljimenez2112]

These vans are so versatile. Lost my job a few months ago and worst part about it was losing my van. I could climb in the back and nap at any time. Loved it.

[@CobraKyle]

Yeah this thing is great! Sorry to hear you lost your job. I'm kind of in limbo with work right now too.

[@diedrawittenberg4657]

I like the way you're going to use it and then think about what investments and upgrades you might want.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Diedra! Slow and steady wins the race....and saves me money!

[@johnliberty3647]

I have a 2015 version of that van. I prefer it over a full size cargo van, and over any car. I have used it to haul many light weight things. Currently I have a futon in the back, takes up the entire back and pushes up against the seats in the front and makes a great sleeper with a sit up area. To block out the back window I made something out of cardboard, for purposes of being stealth I made it look like I had a bunch of old boxes stacked up for some sort of delivery, one box has "fresh Manure". printed on it. I haven't had anyone break in yet

[@mattmalacara8341]

Welcome to the Ford family, now time to setup a drag race!

[@CobraKyle]

I'm runnning 10's bro....to 60

[@jasminegarcia716]

Lol

[@SensatiousHiatus]

I just “converted” my 1995 Honda Accord ...would love to do something like this in the future...enjoyed the video cheers mate.

[@CobraKyle]

That sounds pretty cool actually! Is it an Accord Wagon? You should make a video on that! Thanks for watching my van video. I'm still loving this thing.

[@SensatiousHiatus]

@@CobraKyle I actually just uploaded a video today on it lol...yea that looks waay more spacious than my ride - cheers to the open road!

[@SweetiePieTweety]

Nice simple setup. Always go simple first then adjust. So wise. I drove a connect for work. I drive an Odyssey for personal use and adventuring. Both great options and easy to maneuver over the larger vans. I had a larger van where there were two of us on adventures. But for solo travel it just made sense to downsize and sometimes visiting friends and family it was nice to be able to “blend” into suburbia for a night here or there. The Odyssey is more comfortable over the connect. But next I would get a connect because hands down be it for contract work or play, more money stays in your pocket and it’s built to easily clean when you haul stuff that gets messy. Have fun! Jelly

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Karen! I did consider an Odyssey or Sienna for the comfort factor, but minivans sure have gotten expensive! I couldn't find a new one under $30,000. The Connect just checked all the boxes for me, and I'm absolutely loving it. Can't wait for the next trip!

[@H.pylori]

This is the video that I have been looking for. All I want is to be able to sleep stretched out, carry my camping gear and explore. The fancy Class B RVs are nice for full-timers, but way too expensive at $100,000 and up after taxes and insurance etc. Besides, many of the fancy vans and RVs I see parked in driveways and rarely move, as I walk my dog through the neighborhood. My friends say that what I am looking for is a "rolling metal tent." And, they are right! Thanks for the links to the items that you have purchased so far. Also the custom reflectix shades in the back windows are very well done. Easy on and easy off. My only fear is Ford reliability, especially in these vans. Otherwise for $23,000, count me in. Thank you for the video. Happy Trails and STAY SAFE!

[@CobraKyle]

I'm glad you found this useful! Rolling metal tent is the perfect description lol. I had mentioned in my other comment that I too worry about the Ford reliability, and that's why I went with a new one to have the factory warranty. I don't keep vehicles more than 3-4 years, so hopefully it lasts me that long. I really want Toyota or Honda to bring a cargo van here, but I don't see that happening anytime soon.

[@BayouJosh]

very cool. I bought the same van about 2 months ago. I have a simple frame design that bolts into the existing tie down. It maximizes storage and looks pretty clean. We love ours and is simply a tent on wheels. I subscribe to your theory. no need to go crazy and try to make it livable. can't wait to see what's next.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Joshua! Congrats on your van. I've got a few new items arriving today for the van. Might do an update video on what I'm adding. It isn't that exciting, but should help the convenience of it!

[@MariafromthePhilippineIslands]

This is the most simple motor home, functional and least expensive. Thank you for the idea. It's an issue where to find more money for the build. This set up is the answer. Thanks for sharing. 🙏🙏

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks for watching! I'm super cheap and didn't want to spend a bunch on this, and realized I don't need a ton of stuff in a camper van. Good luck with yours!

[@rose8662]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Love the simplicity!

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks for watching! I'm glad you like it!

[@gordongrigsby5172]

I had a 30-in bed and I had to go down to a 24-in I didn't have enough room in my minivan to have the 30 now with the 24-in wide bed I have much more room for things.

[@frankdaddyoh6811]

I have a transit connect and like it a lot .... I see all the possibilities for it's use . Right now I have a mattress in the back with moving mats on top of it .... it is still used for hauling stuff plus sleeping when I travel . I made a front driver side automatic window ventilator for a cooling air flow when the temps inside reach a high level ........

[@CobraKyle]

Very cool! I'm particularly interested in your window ventilator. That would be a game changer I bet!

[@tygastfield613]

This is wonderful. I’m picking up my transit connect in a day or two and will be using it mostly to haul my mountain bike. Great video and have a wonderful time on the trails.

[@CobraKyle]

Appreciate that Ty! Hope you're enjoying your Transit Connect. I just got back from a trip to Tennessee/North Carolina, and slept so good in the van!

[@texastrailmaverick1231]

Very cool van Cobra! Nice inexpensive conversion! Can’t wait to see what awesome places you travel to in that little beast!

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Thomas. Maybe now I'll go to the beach with you one of these days lol.

[@thomashowell3214]

@@CobraKyle Bring it Cobra!

[@tomguyer]

I have the same van. Don’t lock the doors when you’re sleeping or the horn alarm will go off when you roll over. I love mine.

[@homesickpro]

I had the same problem - you can tape over the sensors below the front overhead storage. That seems to work!

[@CobraKyle]

Interesting! I haven't had that happen to me yet. I move around quite a bit while sleeping, so glad it hasn't occurred yet. I keep my keys close by when sleeping in case it does go off. I had a feeling it might.

[@ainik20]

This is fantastic! Such a great start to that and total testing phase!

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! I'm about to take another trip in it next week, and can't wait!

[@ryanbarr6637]

It’s kinda like a make shift motor home lol. Good choice on the van. Ford is the best in Texas.Hope your doing good!

[@CobraKyle]

I'm really happy with this thing. I'm in Colorado riding bikes, so I'm doing great. Hope you are well too!

[@CamperVan-K]

That internal light will drain your battery. Trying to figure out how to turn it off. I've just uploaded a short vid to show people how to turn off the headlights while you've got the door open.

[@myepicjourney8275]

I just bought a Ram ProMaster city 2020 and it does not have a floor like you do. I'm going to insulate the floor and put a plywood on top and hopefully just set up the way you did. It's too expensive to do a whole big makeover. Or I can add on gradually as I go along.

[@CobraKyle]

Congrats on your van! I'm guessing the Promaster has a metal floor from factory? I'm still pretty pleased with my rubber flooring. I had looked into doing the wood floor, but decided against it.

[@djlarroc]

What an awesome & practical van. MTB dude here. I’m trying to decide on a newer connect LWB or an older with the higher roof.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! That's a tough choice! I do wish this van was a bit taller. I'm 6' tall, so getting dressed in it I have to lay down on the bed, and also remember not to sit up fast while sleeping. The length of my van though is pretty great! I hope Ford eventually releases a new version that is both long and tall!

[@eatnosenuggets]

I feel like I'm more jelly of not having this setup compared to STS or BKXC vans. This is awesome.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! I'd say their vans are probably cooler, but mine is much more attainable! Taking a trip in it next week and can't wait. It's been very good to me.

[@thim8009]

I got a truck with topper its got solar, pop up shower, garden sprayer shower, took 2 out of 3 seats in back and turned it into a kitchen. I could stay out of it for a month once I get my 12 volt freezer

[@CobraKyle]

That's super cool! I'll eventually upgrade this, but for now it's great for short trips.

[@mikeadams7643]

Thanks for the feedback. I will be using those Amazon links you left If I can find a good 'close out' price for the 2020 Ford Transit Connect van. I'm going to follow your lead on this if possible financially.

[@CobraKyle]

Awesome thanks so much Mike! Hope you can end up getting one!

[@mikeadams7643]

@@CobraKyle I got a new 2020 FORD TC XL LWB just like yours. The neighbors are jealous of my freedom, I think. Great deal on the van. So far I have installed some cheap carpet and the bed and mattress you suggested. I'm almost ready to hit Texas Bass lakes this spring. Going to love my last few years of life casually in this thing with over night fishing trips to state parks, lakes and Oklahoma Casinos :)

[@historiasdepadreehijo7963]

Awesome...congratulations....I know you going to have a good time with the new toy

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Juan. I'm in Colorado right now, and it's working great!

[@ChrisCXK]

This is exciting! Now I wont be the only weirdo who opts to sleep somewhere in the woods if we travel haha.

[@CobraKyle]

Let's take some trips and save money together!

[@sanzquerol]

Awesome !! Colorado... It's a great place. A lot to explore. Have fun !

[@CobraKyle]

It's so wonderful up here. I don't want to leave....until it starts snowing.

[@carlosgomezzzzzzz]

I want something like this... I couldn't ever do the van life, but this seems right for me

[@CobraKyle]

Yeah this van is a great middle ground. After 3 week long trips in it though, I can definitely see the appeal to full time van life.

[@keithmort5227]

Very impressed got an old transit connect I'll keep it simple for now cheer's

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Keith! Just filmed an update video on the van. Should be out this Thursday. I've kept it pretty basic still and it's working out great!

[@TysRides]

Great set up man! Gets the wheels turning in my head to do something similar...

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Ty! It's the simplest solution I could come up with. Just spent a week in Colorado in it. Worked really well!

[@CamperVan-K]

Great. Just like mine. Question: how do you fold the seat down flat? I've tried, but I can't figure it out.

[@Jamesmartens55]

In 2 years this went from 23k to 40k.

[@J__7777]

And now $46K...pretty absurd. Wish income would also double in 3 years.

[@debbiedebbie9473]

The base price ? Ugh. ☹️💔

[@chrishaug9858]

No way...wow. gotta look used....

[@mtb_mike3293]

Cut some holes in the roof and add a couple of exhaust fans. That will make a huge difference in circulating some fresh air inside

[@CobraKyle]

I may do that eventually. For now I've been cracking the front windows and letting my tiny fan circulate. It's working in mild temperatures, but will need something bigger once I go to a hot climate.

[@Edvard7777]

@@CobraKyle Maybe put some wind deflectors on the front windows, if it rains, water don't get inside when you have them open.

[@aldenwilkins]

Love it. Affordable utilitarian solution.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Alden. I'm all for keeping it simple.

[@VanGoWanderlust]

I’ve been looking for videos just to make sure I could fit a bike and a bed in one of these smaller beds, thanks!

[@CobraKyle]

Glad I could help. It's a tight fit, but possible to have both! I just filmed an updated review on the van if you want to check that out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bonJm6h_iaaeo7M

[@nebulous3234]

Does the large space in the back prevent the AC from cooling up front effectively? When both windows are down, is there annoying wind buffeting? Great video, thinking about doing the exact same thing with the exact same vehicle except maybe the FWB version

[@CobraKyle]

The AC on this van actually works really well! I can't really answer the buffeting question as it's been so hot lately I haven't driven with the windows down really at all. The AC has 4 settings, and I don't think I've ever needed to put it on the highest to cool me down. It's a very effective AC, and so far this van has been really awesome!

[@oklahotb3217]

I used my old honda odyssey to camp out off. Lots of room in the back with the seats out and folded down. I even had a tent that slipped over the back end so it had great ventilation

[@CobraKyle]

I like those tents that connect to vehicles. Pontiac had the right idea with the Aztek. Hopefully car manufacturers start to offer factory camper builds on vehicles. I think it's a huge market that they are missing out on right now.

[@oklahotb3217]

@@CobraKyle lol after the Aztec, car companies are gun shy. Tho the concept Aztec looked cool but they messed it up.

[@SaeedYounanTV]

How the hell did you score a New 2020 FTC for under 24K? That's impressive. Can't even find a used 2016 for under 29K.

[@CobraKyle]

I bought it shortly after the pandemic started and they couldn't get rid of them at the time. They are super inflated now! So much so a dearer bought mine for $32,000 lol

[@stephaniesimmons-ashorobi3314]

You have a simple,practical build. But could it be possible to attach the bike to the front of the van?.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! I'm actually not sure though about attaching it to the front. Since filming this video, I did install a hitch out back so I can take my bike rack. Can carry two on the rack, and one inside the van if need be!

[@leegoodman8553]

Nice! Can you tell us where u purchased the tri fold mattress? Thanks

[@CobraKyle]

I got it from Amazon. Here is a link to it: amzn.to/3xGhtBM

[@zachm638]

Nice van dude, and great job on those homemade rear window covers. I think one thing you might want to consider are some hooks or some way to hang your gear to dry out before you stow it all away.

[@CobraKyle]

Yeah I do need to work on that. I've just been throwing them on the ground, and it's disgusting. lol

[@ginogetsshreddy_mtb86]

Awesome congratulations man love the video 😂

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Gino. When you see it at the trailheads, you know a party is nearby lol

[@myepicjourney8275]

Thanks for the ideas.

[@CobraKyle]

Glad you like them!

[@stevejeffrey11]

Nice man, a portable solar battery generator like a Jackery would be ideal because you can charge a fan, headlamp, phone, laptop etc. and then charge it up with solar or plugging it into the cigarette lighter while driving

[@CobraKyle]

Yeah I'm strongly considering the Jackery 500. That would easily last a week for my needs. I might snag one at the end of the year and see if I can get it on sale!

[@stevejeffrey11]

@@CobraKyle yea they are small & light & don't have to buy a pure sine wave inverter, may get one for my van just have to figure out how to connect a 12v diesel heater to it

[@smilncynic]

This was very entertaining!

[@CobraKyle]

I appreciate that, and glad you think so!

[@lanyouree8532]

Nice job Kyle!

[@CobraKyle]

Appreciate it!

[@Catman1798]

I really want to see the driving test. On the highway. Merging into a highway. I heard this 2020 model van lags. I’m interested in this van or the ram promaster city but I have a Jeep renegade now so I don’t want to have the same engine and all that. I think the ford transit connect looks better. How does it do on bad roads, bumps etc ? I’m also interested in a Prius or Chevy bolt. Camping in a Prius seems much better. I need AC!! In a van we can’t have that luxury which is a big problem for me in my region. I’m not sleeping in a van with no AC in 100 degree weather. In a Prius you can leave the AC on all night. But I also need cargo room for daily driving. That’s where a van like this comes in handy. I was seriously considering a small cargo van like this one a while back but I don’t know anymore. Like I said I really want to see a driving video. KZbin doesn’t have videos about the drive. Just walk around. I don’t know why. Weird. Be the first to give us driving impressions. I’m actually starting to consider a van again. The fact it would be easy to clean inside appeals to me greatly. In a prius it would get very dirty. I hate carpet!!

[@CobraKyle]

I just drove it 16 hours to Colorado and it's pretty slow. Just takes a bit more planning when you want to pass or merge, but easily manageable. I'd say 0-60 is close to 10 seconds. Can't expect much more from it. It was a really comfortable ride. Seat didn't make me hurt and cruises nice and smooth like a car on rough roads. You could run the engine in this and leave the AC on, but would burn a lot of fuel. A roof mounted fan would probably do wonders for the heat, but I'm not there yet. Maybe in the future I'll make a video more so about the driving characteristics, but it's basically slow and comfortable.

[@jysmtl]

There are standard transit connect reviews you can find for that kind of info.

[@brettbernier4030]

Hey Cobra Kyle..... where did you purchase the bed and mattress?

[@zentient8840]

So happy for you ☺️

[@CobraKyle]

Thank you!

[@mikeadams7643]

I really like your ideas using practical simplicity! That narrow bed is perfect for this van. The mattress looks comfortable. is it? How do you like the van so far?

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Mike. This bed is actually super comfortable. I sleep so good on it...possibly better than my home bed. I'm still loving the van. Been reliable so far, drives easily, and is incredibly practical for my interests!

[@L4J20]

Love it, good job👍

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks so much!

[@gordongrigsby5172]

You don't have to travel to live in a van I have a 40 hour a week job and stay close to work and I love it still beats pan the rent man.

[@CobraKyle]

That's really cool actually! What kind of van do you have, and do you own the land you park it on, or do you constantly have to move spots each day?

[@gordongrigsby5172]

@@CobraKyle I have a 2015 chevy city express I stay in an unincorporated area close to work and thank God I have had no problems so far thanks for asking friend I love your van it's really nice.

[@tryagain.k1821]

Skip to 6:00 The conversiom is put a 30" metal framed bed with folding mattress in the back, tie it to the D-rings. Place a plastic crate under the bed. Put the bicycle in the back. Go mountain-biking. There , i have saved you 14 minutes of your life.

[@Yinshaokie]

How did it do driving through the mountains and the steeper hills

[@CobraKyle]

It was certainly struggling. It made it up to Winter Park, but was spending the majority of the time in the high rev range.

[@tomkalisz3572]

Great job with van!! Are you planning adding any electric in the back? I'm looking at the EcoFlow Tech Delta. Enough power for a coffee pot or microwave and recharges in 90 minutes. I also need some type of refrigerator.

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks Tom! Eventually I want to get a solar generator such as the Jackery 500. I want to have more trips planned before purchasing one so it doesn't just sit in my house unused. I'm trying to find a job I can do remotely (or make KZbin full-time), then I will definitely have power in here.

[@bikeiver]

Love it dude!

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks, I'm loving it too!

[@debbiedebbie9473]

Hello do you still use this van for travel, any changes ? Did you insulate it ?

[@ridemas4156]

Cool man... enjoy your van and keed riding trails ✌✌✌

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! I'm in Colorado right now riding....It's great!

[@lemai85]

I like your humor

[@CobraKyle]

I appreciate that!

[@BikeLifewithRob]

Now it's time to send it!

[@CobraKyle]

Just spent a week rippin it in Colorado! Was so much fun!

[@BikeLifewithRob]

Cobra Kyle heck yeah!

[@janetbransdon3742]

Well done mate... greetings from Australia..🦘🦘🦘

[@CobraKyle]

Thank you! Cheers from the US!

[@apollosillen509]

love this concept! Your ideas are inspiring and I'll use some of them to camp in my VW Caddy

[@CobraKyle]

Very cool! I'm glad it was helpful. I've got another small trip coming up soon and I can't wait. Got a couple new things for it which I'll show in a future video!

[@CyrGlz]

It is really cool ! Do you think a 6.3 feet could fit in the back ?

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! Yeah the back cargo area is right around 7 feet long, so you should be good!

[@martinquick2008]

Why do people making KZbin videos do the same voice ?? Where did it start , when will it end??

[@dougcox835]

I'm only joking here but wouldn't it be amazing to see someone do an 18 wheeler conversion. You could do a complete house with that. Someone should do a Tesla truck camper conversion. That would be funny. The big Tesla truck would be a luxury I like your version though, it's realistic. There is a lot you could do to improve on it but it's good to do it in pieces so you can end up spending lots of money but it doesn't feel like it and you can spend as you go without going into debt.

[@aidankane1799]

Love the Bicycle Heaven hat!

[@CobraKyle]

For sure! My favorite local shop

[@jeffstone28]

Encouraging video! Are you storing and preparing food in the van?

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! At this time, I'm not doing any food preparation in the van. If I store anything inside it would be non perishables. Since I'm not camping in it for extended periods of time, I kind of just buy what I need for the day and consume it then. I'm also an incredibly simple eater, and don't really make fancy meals, so I just grab like a bowl of quinoa and call it a day lol

[@scottandtaylormtb]

I love this thing. Pretty jealous the whole time we were on our trip. Mostly because it GPS's to Da Club.. but also because its a super simple MTB trip solution without a ton of investment. Wonder if there is one in my future? HMMMMMMMM..........

[@CobraKyle]

It did so good in Colorado. Most importantly my bed was hair free lol

[@leonie2316]

You go, guy....i think this is one i can have....

[@CobraKyle]

Thanks! I'm still diggin the van. It's great for the trips I've been taking!

[@mando2.049]

How many boxes 📦 12x12 do u think u could fit in there rough estimate

[@BoltRM]

Cargo volume: 106-123.2 ft³ MSRP: From $24,655 MPG: 24 city / 29 hwy Dim: 174-190″ L x 72″ W x 72″ H Engine: 2.0 L 4-cylinder, 2.5 L 4-cylinder

[@barbduffey317]

Where did U get your custom window protectors?Barb

[@CobraKyle]

I got them from www.high-end-motorsports.com/

[@koolworths]

I've got the same van in the UK lovely vans

[@CobraKyle]

So far I'm very impressed with it. You get different engine options right? A diesel option too?

[@mikerotchburns1622]

id like to do this with a swb. would that be a mistake with a mtb? i dont mind taking the front wheel off.

[@CobraKyle]

Hi Mike. I would recommend the LWB for bikes. Mine barely fits in the LWB, and I think the SWB is 7" shorter inside which is pretty significant. The SWB's are also harder to find as most dealers stock the longer version. I think you'll appreciate the longer version when it comes to mountain biking stuff!

[@wtf2krazy]

I'm purchasing one of these vans in the next couple of weeks. I'm a big mountain biker too. How tall are you? and what's the comfort like for long drives?

[@CobraKyle]

I'm 6' tall, and I actually find this thing quite comfortable on long drives. The arm rest is super nice to have! You can get vinyl seats in this van, but I would say the cloth version is more comfy. Congrats on your new van!

[@wtf2krazy]

@@CobraKyle Thanks for the info, I'm 6'6" so comfort is a struggle. I'm definitely going for the cloth seats. Likely doing no rear windows for the full stealth van thing.

[@CobraKyle]

@@wtf2krazy Oh wow! The cargo area is about 7 feet long, so you should still be able to sleep ok back there. If I could do it again, I wouldn't get the rear glass windows. Not as necessary as I originally thought. I leave my reflectix in at all times, so save the money and one less break in point!

[@captmoondog]

try Luci lites I think you'll like them.

[@CobraKyle]

I checked their website from this comment. That's a really cool design/idea! Thanks for the recommendation!

[@AnthonyApilado]

Where'd you get the side window shades? I can't seem to find any for the connect. Not sure if the regular transit is the same size.

[@CobraKyle]

I bought them on www.high-end-motorsports.com/ These are different from the full size Transit, so make sure you order the ones for Transit Connect!

[@AnthonyApilado]

@@CobraKyle How would you rate them for stealth camping? Do they let any light out?

[@CobraKyle]

@@AnthonyApilado They are decent for that. They aren't the most perfect fit, and you will have a slight opening at the edges, so you may see some light. I close my shower curtain as well to help contain the light. Between the two I think it would be fine. I just got some mosquito nets in the mail yesterday which are black and slip over the whole door frame/window. I think with all 3, you won't be able to see anything inside.

[@AnthonyApilado]

@@CobraKyle nice that's really interesting. I'll be awaiting a review of those as well. Interested to see if they have issues with a drizzle as they sound like they'll interrupt the door seal.

[@cherrypoppins4152]

I’m looking at this van but judging by how big your bike looks in there I don’t think a motorcycle would fit?

[@CobraKyle]

I think a motorcycle may fit depending what kind of bike it is. I believe the cargo area is 4 ft wide by about 7 feet long and 4 feet tall. Without the bed the motorcycle should fit diagonally. I can measure the total length of my mountain bike if that would be helpful to visualize.

[@cherrypoppins4152]

Cobra Kyle the measurements helped me a lot! Thank you so much I’m going to my local ford to take a look next week!

[@Juancholoco710]

Nice review on the transit connect. Not what im here for lol.

[@GT6SuzukaTimeTrials]

I just wish these had 4WD. I might do some weird shit like murphy narrow beds on both sides that fold down to meet in the middle so you can sleep with someone ;) I could easily live full-time in a simple van like this. Small compost toilet, maybe just do solar and power inverters for a TV, refrigerator/microwave or lighting/ventilation. Shower at Planet Fitness.

[@CobraKyle]

4WD would be a game changer on this van! I had considered doing a murphy bed in this, but with fitting the bike in there it didn't allow enough space. This van is pretty awesome for doing van life on a budget. I've seen some really nice builds in these...mine is the bare minimum lol.

[@chrisknowles6766]

How tall are you? Been looking for one of these with a bike in it, want to get a ride that can protect my bike when I’m traveling, even here in Alaska thieves are getting aggressive.

[@CobraKyle]

I'm 6' tall. The cargo area is about 7' long and 4' wide. Not the most spacious with bike inside with bed, but I find it quite cozy. Sucks the thieves are getting more aggressive. Especially with bikes being so popular right now.

[@gordongrigsby5172]

I like the van dough kind of reminds me of mine

[@BasedAnatoliy]

How tall are you bro? I’m thinking about buying a connect as well, instead of going all out for a medium sized roof. I don’t want to live van life full time.

[@CobraKyle]

I'm 6' tall. I'm still loving this van. Taking another trip in a couple weeks. Got a campsite for $9 a night, and I sleep really well in this van. The back cargo area is around 7 feet long and 4 feet wide. This van's size is perfect for part time van camping!

[@BasedAnatoliy]

@@CobraKyle thanks a lot! If you know anyone I should go through for a new van, put them in the link please. It could help you as well for the referral. I’ve been living on a 25 foot sail boat, but I still don’t feel free. I need to head back to Colorado and check out Wyoming/Montana/Canada 🙏🏼 van life is way better than any hotel haha thanks for posting this, helped a lot to decide.

[@tomkalisz3572]

Any thought on the Promaster City vs the Transit Connect?

[@CobraKyle]

I'm not a mechanic by any means, but I've read a lot about the transmission in the Promaster City not being the most reliable. Over the long term, the Ford seemed to have better reliability ratings, and I based my decision mostly on that. I think the Promaster city may offer a bit more cargo room, but I was fine having a smaller space if it meant (hopefully) better reliability.

[@J__7777]

$46K for a new one now...lol

[@vivopolis7563]

Perfect!

[@E.R.Schnaben]

Been thinking of doing the same thing someday.

[@CobraKyle]

I highly recommend it! I love this thing!

[@raleighdentcompany]

I miss SATX sometimes. I used to live on DeZavala.

[@CobraKyle]

Yeah San Antonio is a pretty cool place. I'm guessing you live in Raleigh now based on your name?

[@raleighdentcompany]

@@CobraKyle Yeah. We go back to SA every few years to visit my wife's family. I've got so many good memories there.

[@rogermiller2145]

Were did you get the bed frame

[@CobraKyle]

Got it off Amazon: Bed Frame (Narrow Twin): amzn.to/2FqPxvQ

[@sk8god212]

Sick👍🏼

[@syntrax-og]

this is an actually good idea! As long as you don't miss the kitchen. But for a couple of days a week or 2? You've given me a good idea!

[@CobraKyle]

I may get a small camping stove eventually, but I'm not much of a cook. I just try and buy foods that are ready to eat and simple. Wouldn't want to do that for a long time, but for a few days it isn't bad. I'm in Colorado right now, and this van has been super convenient!

[@dandemore8057]

what about food storage?

[@CobraKyle]

Nothing but quinoa bowls! Non perishable and don't need to be heated up. lol. I don't really cook, so I just go buy what I need for the day, eat it, then repeat. For now. I have room for a small fridge/cooler eventually.