Transit vs ProMaster vs Sprinter vs RV? Choosing a van for my conversion

[@dave3682]

Hello! I drove Mercedes Sprinters and Ford Transits when I drove for FedEx. I have two things to mention about the Sprinter. First is that they do not have a very good turning radius, even for a van. Actually, the entire reason why we also had Transits instead of just Sprinters was so that drivers who had routes out in the country with long dirt driveways and small turn arounds could manage more comfortably. My other warning about the Sprinter is that the frames rust out relatively quickly. We had Sprinters with 500,000 miles that were otherwise fine and were only scrapped because the frame was so rotted that the van would wobble like a diving board going over bumps and also when you got in or out of the Sprinter from the rear. (Note that some of our vans drove up to 250 miles a day, so they'd get to 300,000 and 500,000 miles relatively quickly in only a few years.) As for the Transit, I can only tell you to avoid the 3.0L diesel like the plague! These engines do NOT like to idle! Very unreliable! We replaced all 10 of our diesel Transits with gassers after only 8 months of driving them. The gasser Transits, though, are absolute dream boats. Very fun and comfortable to drive. Not quite as refined as the newer Sprinters, but certainly more utilitarian. Hope someone finds this helpful!

[@Allisonlikescats]

Thank you so much for posting this!!! This really helps me :)

[@syedullah613]

I own a fleet of both and I couldn’t agree more...

[@DV-ll9zq]

Thank you for the info.

[@jleedw]

Thank you for this information

[@MJ-vf1im]

Very helpful, thanks!

[@westwasbest]

As a mechanic for many years, and someone who's been in and out of Vans for a while, I have to tell you that you are one smart young man! I love the details, I love the illustrations, and you really did your homework, excellent job!

[@stuartstuart866]

I really like your presentation style, you are very informative without being too chatty about irrelevant details.

[@gaberoyalll]

Really good 👍

[@death9222]

A little too robotic for me. I kept having to rewind to catch things I missed just from losing attention to it. Its possible to be a millennial, not say "like" and "actually" while still giving some life to whatever you are presenting. 😂

[@jackdreamvan1806]

@@death9222 a little robotic, I agree. But overall I really enjoyed his presentation. Moser, you have a clear, organized mind & your content was right on point of what I'd been until now unsuccessfully seeking to learn.

[@ruthhollard7339]

Agree! Short sweet and to the point, thank you!

[@MaximC]

In short, I very much agree, most informative videos on van conversion. So appreciated.

[@justinford2099]

I'm a mechanic that works mostly on alls these Van's. The promaster is the worse reliable van by far. The sprinter is expensive to maintain if u can't do it ur self. I would by a transit. Great choice

[@dave3682]

Any opinion on the Nissan NV reliability? Thanks!

[@biketothetop]

Justin thanks for your two cents! I'm not surprised the guy with the last name of Ford likes Fords :-)

[@justinford2099]

Wow sorry about my grammar. I must have been half asleep when I wrote that. Yeah if u meet any of Henry's grandkids, ask them where my check is. Lol

[@justinford2099]

And the NV's suck too

[@biketothetop]

@@justinford2099 grammar is overrated, but it does help with First Impressions :-) I do a lot of dictation through my phone and oftentimes it seems it changes after hitting the enter key.

[@williamgaldamez3273]

This was so informative on the difference in sizes, you save us time to a lot of us looking for a van. Thanks!

[@WW-wf8tu]

1 word. Impressed. Not often can I say that from a variety of content from a variety of sources. This is exactly what people need. An intelligent, well researched, and perfectly presented video. Your dialog was spot on. Your visual cues were perfectly timed. Your editing must have been easy. You stayed on topic and flowed from 1 point to the other in a non broken manner. No distractions in the background to disrupt what you were sharing. Thank you for bringing your knowledge and experience on this project to KZbin. Nicely done.

[@JamesBrett2008]

Just watched it now and was thinking the same immediately. Breath of fresh air when someone just gets how to do it.

[@rebekahbabb6963]

I have watched 100s of van builds but your chart snd explanation of all three was the best I have watched! Thank you!

[@vfxdroneshorts9637]

nice to see Ed sheeran got into van life

[@emmanuelgianni5112]

😂😂😂😂

[@JeffreyViews]

I've always thought that if and when I ever convert a van for a home it would be a Transit and this video cemented that thought; a 2020, high roof, LWB, AWD, cruise control, back-up camera, eco-boost engine, limited slip rear-wheel differential would be the one I would get. Excellent job on your presentation, thanks!

[@OGYouTubeEnjoyer]

These kind of vans have such big mirrors you don't even need a back up camera. I drive all these everyday for work and I would always choose the Promaster. Never hit anything in all my years of backing up these kinds of vans and 3-5 tonne trucks.

[@roberthuffjr5540]

JeffreyViews I’m leaning heavily in the same direction as you for me and the wife’s retirement van. I’m 6’4” 275 and she’s 5’9” 220. We gonna need that LWB for sure for our needs and a comfortable bed. 😎

[@msworkinitout]

I’m so glad this video still exist it help me figure out what size van I want for myself

[@johnmca5643]

As an engineer this is by far the most informative van video I've seen. Your Ford would be my pick too. I was unaware that Dodge has a Fiat motor. That's a no-no for me. The Sprinter is expensive both in initial cost and any repair cost. Truthfully I'm not a huge fan of American made cars. I wish Honda or Toyota had a large van.

[@CB-vx8dt]

I believe the Promaster is also known as a Fiat Ducato (and I've also seen them as Citroens too though the name escapes me)

[@itsnick37]

Live out of a 4runner or tundra maybe 🤷🏻‍♂️or be like KZbin Mav living out of his Ford Lariat I actually think pickup truck living isn’t bad….

[@retiredandroaming]

Millions of those Fiat Pentastar 3.6 engines are sold in literally dozens of vehicles and they are vfery reliable with basic good maintenance. nSome are running over 500k miles without major repair.

[@jamesoldman3021]

Good presentation liked the fact you spoke clearly with no ungodly background music. Too bad the manual transmissions are not offered in North America.

[@johnward1281]

Hear in England i have a Transit Jumbo, Manual 6 speed, 140 Diesel, i get 30 M.P.G. no problem

[@gypsiewanderer24]

Americans can't drive a stick

[@timothy790110]

@@gypsiewanderer24 in sweden its not a choice, you HAVE to take your license driving manual.

[@robertplutz8221]

@@johnward1281 You probably meant "here" ?

[@M3T2W01f]

Yeah, I wish more cars and vans here had stick.

[@ryanmartinage]

If you're wanting a panel style van, I think the Transit is hands down the winner for ease of repairs and superior powertrain options. Im going for a Transit all wheel drive soon as they come out this winter with the 3.5 ecoboost.

[@jeanwest1058]

Love your style. You must have been a great student in school. Thank you for sharing and keeping the nonsense background music out of it. Love the graphics too. It’s clear how much research you put into this. Looking forward to seeing lots more from you!

[@will._.x_.861]

Hear! Hear on the absence of goofy music 😝

[@jeffrygriffith3811]

Road traffic was perfect the background audio.

[@jcrefasi1]

Nice to have all the details given to us in an easy to follow presentation complete with visual aids! The charts were very helpful to compare the different wheelbases offered. Thanks Moser and looking forward to more great videos

[@NomaddUK]

As an Englishman I would like to say thank you for being one of the first American van lifers to actually speak English the way it should be spoken. Clear concise and no overuse of awesome or super. You did a great job of methodically working through your selection process and the reasons you chose your van. I am truly looking forward to your next videos. Keep up the good work my friend.

[@JonahMoriarty]

I must agree with the others, you have a great presentation style on all fronts. Informative, comfortable, just the facts and great volume. I find so many DIY on youtube- by those who fail to provide good audio. Your audio is very good. Thank you for the tips. Happy I found you.

[@terrysmith9716]

I've been watching videos for a month - every night. This is the FIRST time I have seen a comparison of the vans that include real info about lengths / wheelbase with side by side visuals. Thank you!!!!! Some of us gals just know we want a van. While drone effects are super for me they are not why I'm watching videos. This was truly informative!!!

[@Scrambler85]

I went with a 2021 Ford E350 cutaway van with a 14' box that has a 84" high interior and with 80 of interior width. It was important for me to be able to insulate and stand upon in it. With a 80" interior width I can sleep across the back. Plus it has a 13,000 pound tow rating with a 6,100 cargo capacity. Love the power of the new 7.3 gas motor that Ford named Godzilla 😁

[@bertholtappels1081]

As many have said, thank you for the best comparison on the internet. Many have done this before you, and I’ve seen and read most of them, but they all are missing important elements. Yours is comprehensive while not burying the information in irrelevant details.

[@AaronGeller]

I personally own a Promaster but I just as equally like the Transits. The Sprinters are for people who can only afford a Mercedes by living in one (I'm half joking). The Promaster interior measurements weren't correct on that chart. The 159" (mid length) has 145" for cargo or 12.08 ft which was longer than the chart showed and from window to window, the width is about 6'5".

[@OGYouTubeEnjoyer]

Sprinters are for suckers who want a set amount of starts and absurd fees just to get it into a shop.

[@RobertLeeLewisThe2nd]

@@OGKZbinEnjoyer You should change your name.

[@OGYouTubeEnjoyer]

Robert Lewis no

[@Davido50]

Wise choice getting the Ford Transit! These seem very, very popular. Do good basic maintenance.. *always using full synthetic engine oil / OEM filters + transmission fluid changes every 50k mis*. They will last forever!

[@EugeneSan]

A few corrections/additions (not trying to convince anyone, just sharing data I myself collected when I was comparing the Vans): 1. The engine/transmission in the Promatser are made by Fiat only for Diesel models which are less common than Gasoline ones which come with Pentastar 3.6 (the same drivetrain used in Vans, Jeeps, Pickups, SUVs, etc) and it is definitely cheaper to maintain/replace. 2. Promaster also suffers from the windshield cowl panel "leakage". 3. As Aaron G mentioned, Promaster has different dimensions than showed in video and they are, IMHO, better than Transit's. 4. Promaster is cheaper than Transit. Comparable configurations of Transit are usually 10% more expansive than Promaster. 5. High roof Promasters are ~1 foot lower (on the exterior) than high roof Transits while still allowing ~74 inches of interior height. 6. Unless you include Transit 2020, convenience features (seating, dashboard, multimedia, etc) of Transit are seriously outdated when compared to Promaster. 7. Ground clearance of Promsater, despite visual difference, is only 0.1 inches lower than Transit.

[@L-Anded]

Thank you.

[@patdthomas]

And one more thing, ProMaster is by Ram. Not Dodge. FYI, love my PM!

[@emilyy7825]

Hi! Thank you for this comment!! I'm looking to buy a van now after saving for a year, so I'm researching now. Since I'll be solo, my biggest concern is reliability. I was leaning towards a Promaster (I like how it handles) but then I heard about the engine being considered unreliable... Do you have a PM?

[@patdthomas]

@@emilyy7825 The diesel powertrain was unreliable and was dropped after a few years. The standard Penastar V6 gasoline engine is tried and true and used in many Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. Mine has been smooth, responsive and relatively efficient.

[@alexyoungberg5232]

@@patdthomas and the difference is?

[@theoriginalrabbithole]

This is actually THE best comparison on these three vans I've seen on KZbin! 👍Btw, not only do you have to find a Mercedes dealer to fix your Sprinter BUT!...that particular Mercedes dealership has to have a "Mercedes Certified Sprinter Technician" on staff to even look at your van and not all of them do! I am NOT kidding about that! Have fun in Baja. Ford dealerships on the other hand? They're like McDonalds, even small towns have at least one in the area and ALL the Ford techs can work on your Transit.😄

[@markusrobinson3858]

Congratulations on an excellent and informative video. I own and have converted a 2017 170" 4x4 Mercedes Sprinter but wanted to hear your comparison. I was surprised to learn that the Sprinters have much longer wheel bases but are somewhat narrower than the other vans. Mine is not the extended version 170". The 4x4 version has 3" more clearance under the body so I've never experienced any ground clearance issues. The 4x4 feature maintains the basic slip differential which means that in slippery conditions at most you have one wheel forward and one wheel aft in 4x4 mode. In other words the basic Mercedes Sprinter 4x4 is not a true locked hub 4x4. That's a drag, but it is what it is. Fully loaded I get a combined vanning mileage of about 16.8 mpg driving nothing but back roads, off roads, and stop and go city driving. Pretty good for a 4x4.

[@monicawilson896]

Have you been happy with it? How many miles have you put on it? I am concerned about cost of repairs and availability of Mercedes dealers to have it serviced if we go traveling in it. Have you had any rust issues underneath the van?

[@markusrobinson3858]

@@monicawilson896 Hello Monica, I performed a full custom conversion of the van spending almost two years doing it (and producing about 65 engineering-grade plans in the process). We ended up with a true 3-room design: bedroom (over the garage) with full seated headroom, toilet/shower, and front galley/dining area that seats four (when the two cab seats are facing backwards.) Solar panels, lith ion batteries, diesel furnace and stove. The doors between the areas are all solid/sliding so there is genuine privacy and light opaqueness between areas. Email me at [e-mail] for details. My wife and I are supremely happy with the van, having completed three major multi-month trips in it and planning on a year in Europe and an extended trip through South America to Patagonia when Covid permits... The extra three inches of clearance is wonderful for off-road and marginal road conditions. Mercedes parts and service are expensive but you get what you pay for and the diesel engines and transmissions are excellent and long lasting. Have not had any rust issues but sprayed the interior where the plastic side panels are pinned on to increase protection from rust.

[@PURPLE_SHADE_SMOOTHIE]

I couldn't stop watching. I was mesmerized by your delivery.

[@ourkaravan]

I thought you did a very balanced review of each of them. I had a difficult time choosing a van because, as you said, they each seem to have their own issues.

[@donalddodson7365]

My guess is that if you were buying used, you would settle for whatever looked like it was well maintained and ran the best at the right price. Buying new, for me, has usually had something to do with the dealer's attitude, the service departments' ratings and location. But, the last time I bought a vehicle was November 2005 ... I keep 'em a long time.

[@TerryManitoba]

Also, - Taller van impedes overhead bush clearance. (obviously, worst if you have a roof rack et al). Ford dealerships USA -= 3000, Mercedes = 368. That is a big deal if you need something done & parts - important for me. 2.5 years ago I went with a mid-length mid-height Transit eco boost & couldn't be happier. Great job with the specs, overview & details.

[@ltvanburen]

Terry B Great point- Thank you

[@lorcro2000]

In Europe I'd be choosing between either the Transit or the Iveco Daily. And I'm leaning towards the Daily. The Transit does have slightly better fuel economy (about 35 mpg US in Europe) but I like how the Iveco is constructed, and the extra extra long variant is nice, half a meter longer is still enough to do a bathroom and a shower and still have as much space as the other vans left over. I don't really care about being able to park in a single spot though, I'd rather have the space.

[@cruisingangel7042]

Very helpful!!! First video I’ve found on the interior height differences. I’m leaning towards the pro master.

[@oysteinheggebo]

The best “which van to buy” video I’ve seen yet, thanks!

[@deanmignola5448]

Dude... excellent job! I'm getting a Transit too. Probably going with the medium roof though. You really helped me with the wheelbase. I was planning on the short wheelbase until I noticed that the long wheelbase is basically the same as the short wheelbase in the Sprinter. I'm going to get a passenger version and replace the back couple rows of seats with a bed and just put all terraign tires/wheels and a roof rack on the van... done. Perfect for surf trips and short camping trips.

[@meoka2368]

Dude. I did NOT expect this level of information. Well done :)

[@petefarmer3514]

Agreed...Was very well done! 👏

[@ruthnotestine6888]

I really enjoyed this video because you were direct, concise, and more interested in conveying information than in promoting yourself.

[@michaelconchscooter8940]

Good presentation. I went Promaster as I’m buying new and the early bugs in the 2014/5 seem to be worked out. The 2020 offers swivel driver’s seat and that matters as I want front living. The interior width of the Promaster is better than the transit as the interior rubbing leaves more room by my measurement. And I can’t live in less than 20 feet. I wish I could but we need the 21 foot high top. So after a Lifetime driving ford I’m going dodge. This will be interesting.

[@seansnowdon2046]

That's to funny, after a lifetime of dodge I'm going Ford. We have had 4 dodge mini vans over the years, 3 awesome trucks, dodge jeep and charger now. Never an issue, especially there engines. I am converting a van for the wife and I, now that our daughter is off to college. I like the Transit only for the height, since I am looking at building a bed to lift up to the ceiling and table underneath. This will be interesting.

[@conchscooter]

@@seansnowdon2046 Thing is we are short and we can get a sideways 6 foot queen sized folding bed long enough for us. The wide ribs of the Transit did me in as it's less broad inside and my wife vetoed a narrow beam....can't argue with that! We are having Custom Coach Creations in DeLand build the interior and he owner likes Promasters for his conversions though he does any van so until my wife vetoed the Ford I was hopeful.

[@lucymiller6616]

It's been two years, so are you happy with your choice?

[@lucymiller6616]

@@seansnowdon2046 Give us an update.

[@pnwesterner6220]

Swivel seats are available in the Transit

[@Rio-by1eh]

With info like this FORD -TR just got themselves the best spokesperson***

[@rockngrannyroadwarrior8807]

This was so informative on the difference in sizes. I’m research shopping for my next get-away vehicle for extended trips. Have always been drawn to ford Transit connects. Prefer the mid height roof. Your vid is only one I’ve found with measurements inside. Will be looking for the older models as I’m budget limited. So many thanks. Cheers, MaryAnne 💃💃💃

[@OGYouTubeEnjoyer]

Get a Promaster you won't be disappointed.

[@rcpmac]

@@OGKZbinEnjoyer BS

[@earthkarma7420]

@@OGKZbinEnjoyer Why? I've heard that they are the least reliable with transmission problems.

[@mildredlederer1866]

Excellent presentation! No distractions with unnecessary information. As a person with a modest income, I wish there were more less expensive already converted cargo vans being manufactured. This is where the market is going. Get with!

[@CB-vx8dt]

Love how straightforward this is. Graphics were a handy addition to (I've even screenshotted some of them for future reference). Immediately subscribed 👍

[@frederichore1890]

Thank you for the overview! Some good tips and recommendations. One point not mentioned is about the engines. The Sprinter uses a diesel engine, which is better on fuel and allows you to go much further between fillups. It also requires less frequent oil changes and maintenance compared to gasoline engines. I don't own one, but a buddy that drives a Pleasure-Way Plateau TS Sprinter extended van with the long wheel base, and has put some 60,000km on his, found it to be very reliable, with 24/7 service available throughout the US. It also has double rear wheels due to the weight load of the vehicle, something to keep in mind. It does not have a spare tire, so roadside service is required if you get a flat or blowout. Cheers from Montréal :-)

[@PinkstaffRacing]

This video is perfect! I’m considering exactly the choices you covered, so this information was spot-on. I’m leaning towards a Transit. Now to watch your other vids to learn more how to prep one!

[@vickilynn4773]

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your clean, clear, concise, caring, just plain "talk to us" manner of teaching about EVERYTHING VANS!

[@jimburger9418]

Thoroughly researched and nicely presented information - thanks.

[@eddiehuynh4468]

the charts were amazing and everything I needed to make a decision. I was dead set on the Promaster extended but now I think I like the Ford Transit extended. Thank you so much!

[@ericburgher]

My dude! Your videos are the most informative and well thought/laid out ones I’ve ever seen. This one on van types was greatly appreciated. Keep up the awesome work! 👏🏻

[@stevenhorkey2249]

I wish more of KZbin could be as useful and to-the-point as this one. Bravo

[@EricLouisYoung]

BRO. Best van video I could have stumbled upon. Wow! I'm 6'4" so I'll be seeking a transit hr extended

[@fredhubbard7210]

To the point. Thanks for taking our time seriously. I love the charts. At 6'5'" the choice is simple.

[@mayb.3745]

Very informative. I learned more from you than the “builders”. All pertinent information. Thank you. I’m taking notes.

[@patd4u2]

Excellent presentation young man! I have a 2018 Winnebago Travato K model built on the Promaster 3500 chassis it has two single beds on each side, so far I love the Promaster, very easy to drive with a excellent turning radius. It has the same 3.6 Pentastar engine as the 2016 Jeep JKU I used to have but with a 6 speed auto instead of the 5 speed in the Jeep. No problem around town and on the highway but a little under powered in the mountains especially with all the added weight of the equipment. Cargo Vans are the way to go, I do not like Class C's or A's at all. 8-12 MPG vs 15-18 with my Promaster.

[@viankarby7599]

Really great presentation specially because no music,,thank u so much for your info🙏🏻

[@smooth6718]

Very good job of presenting and comparing the different vans. I like your style: no frills, no exaggerations, just the facts, mam, the facts.

[@Joe44944]

Hey Man! Thanks for taking the time to do this, I'm looking into building a Van myself so this is very helpful! Cheers!

[@stendecstretcher5678]

Out of all the videos I have watched you are the only one who explains what boon docking actually is. So good on you for that.

[@DonQ]

Sprinters can't just be taken to Mercedes dealers. They have to be taken to special certified sprinter dealers so it is even more difficult to get service for them. We've heard some bad things about their reliability also.

[@OGYouTubeEnjoyer]

Yeah you have to pay $1000+ just to get it into the shop too before anything is done. Let alone the fact you can only start the van so many times before you have to take it in.

[@277kne]

Excellent video. I did the same research and put it down on paper. And I screen shot a charts like yours. I would like the Promaster to have a tilt steering wheel and to be a little longer. Interior floor length is important.

[@aldious1010]

FINALLY! A man who can speak properly! Thank you so much!

[@cwr8618]

you live in a nuthouse or something?

[@aldious1010]

@@cwr8618 No, its the proper speech that makes the difference! Its the articulation! Thanks a bunch and be well

[@cwr8618]

@@aldious1010 just teasin herbalizer. cheers!

[@aldious1010]

Haha Cheers bro

[@TheBlueQuasar]

Thank you for the pure facts, no fluff approach. It was great to have a regular person lay out the info without hype. Glad I watched this.

[@sc0368]

Mercedes would clear your bank account for maintenance.

[@questioner1596]

The Ram Promaster's diesel engine is a Fiat design, but the gasoline engine is the same 3.6 V6 as the Dodge Grand Caravan, which has been fairly reliable and doesn't have the complexity of turbocharging like the Ecoboosts or the diesels.

[@kathleenreyes4345]

Great video! Thank you for this information and sharing your research! This has been extremely helpful as you answered many of my questions!!

[@tekkigizmo]

Great video! And very well presented, personally I chose a sprinter, extra long and extra high, 7 foot of headroom. Yes it had some major problems when I bought it, (back axle, front part of the exhaust, battery, brakes, no keys and it had been sitting 18 months) but now it runs great, it takes regular 200 mile trips to London with no problems and currently getting 49 miles per gallon (uk). Did I mention I got it really cheap.

[@RoadToSalvationX]

Great video, super helpful. The best that I've seen so far on this topic. Thanks!

[@sweetheart6722]

Thank you for posting a van dimension chart in the first 1-2 mins of this video, breath of fresh air, for once a video that gives me information I am actually seeking in a concise manner.

[@jimmyiggy5937]

Great job, very informative and covered many useful, important points. Thank you!

[@laurajacques1600]

Excellent presentation Im an older woman considering buying a van to convert and you broke it all down nicely and made it easy for me to understand!

[@mattmit1998]

Thanks heaps for this, all the questions i wanted answered regarding size, keep it up

[@mikeshafer]

This was probably the best comparison I've ever seen. I think I'm definitely going for a high roof LWB 148" Transit now. I'm 6'2" so there really is no comparison.

[@roberthuffjr5540]

Mike Shafer I’m with you on that. I’m 6’4” and my wife is 5’9”. We need the LWB Transit for our comfortable bed that we will need.

[@Heatsauce70506]

Very helpful...I'm still leaning towards a Promaster, if I can find one I can afford.

[@blackreacher]

Got one you can buy, 172,000 highway miles

[@OGYouTubeEnjoyer]

As somebody who drives Promasters, Transits, Sprinters, and Savannahs frequently I would go with the Promaster over anything else.

[@jcardosa02]

David Abercrombie who in their right mind would get a pro master they’re literally garbage lol ford transit is THE number one most reliable

[@OGYouTubeEnjoyer]

@@jcardosa02 Well only idiots buy Fords.

[@Creature0022]

Im thinking a medium length hightop promaster

[@cbryce9243]

I appreciate that you take the time to make these videos and that you do them at a speed that I can absorb the information. Thank you.

[@allysonpierce3812]

This video is exactly what we needed! This was so informative! We want to be your friend!!

[@christinetaylor6764]

I've started researching the different vans and am thankful you've already done it and shared it with us. Thank you for taking the time to help newbies!

[@mikedodge1322]

Thanks for a great video. The diagrams were extremely helpful!

[@davidgodley521]

I'm living in my 2016 Ford Transit van mid high roof. It has a 310 HP V6 twin turbo EcoBoost engine.It also has the trailer tow package. I found it on Car Gurus and got it from a reputable dealership. It was already built out. It's the same length as a full size pickup.

[@rose8662]

This was so excellent! THANK YOU!

[@ShakespeareCafe]

Promaster V6 Pentastar can take you across the country You failed to mention the 118” PM and it’s plenty big inside If you’re 5’8” or shorter you can stand up in back or at the most crouch slightly It’s also the easiest to drive and park The side view mirrors are like a couple of large screen TVs with a commanding view of the road behind.

[@johnmaciejewski4]

Congratulations on your new to you van! I wonder if I could ask a couple questions? How old is the van ? How many miles does it have? What was the price for comparison when I buy my van? Good luck on your build I will be watching you progress. Thank you

[@davidyule3605]

He states in the video that its a 2015.

[@rangerider51]

He said it’s a 2016

[@acenuck]

Yes, he said it was a 2016.

[@franka9161]

OMG THANK YOU finally a REAL video that answer the question of the caption. Instead of just talk and talk and never say anything usable

[@soggynomadpress]

Shopping now. Thanks for the great info!

[@shewolf4712]

VOTED BEST VAN BUILD VIDEO - by Me. excellent presentation and info.

[@FreedoomRock]

Don't know where did you get the measurements for the Promaster, i have a Roadtrek Zion 21' long high roof from floor to ceiling i still have 6'2 and a half of standing height

[@karennevin7101]

Uh, wow! I have watched MANY cargo van comparison videos and yours is the clearest and most practical, and I would say without bias towards the van you chose. Kudos!! And thanks!!

[@tillygraham1572]

Good review . Promasters have a better build out lay out due to the walls being more straight Al the way tote roof ..

[@vanessahenry7238]

WOW thank you! Your videos are clear and helpful! I am seriously looking at doing this for life(at 50 yrs old) so I never have to pay for rents or a mortgage and travel like I wanted, I looked at Motor-homes and there is to many issues I didn't want to deal with and I didn't want to haul a travel trailer. Just been trying to get as much information, and your video one the different types of cargo vans is soo informative and as Stuart Stuart said "very informative without being too chatty about irrelevant details." Thank you and I will be watching and following your other videos!

[@tvc380]

Very informative. I like your videos!

[@lamonttblackshire1638]

I have been searching through videos for a week, you answered at least 10 questions I could not find the answer to anywhere else! Thank you so much!

[@katokhaelan4881]

Dude. My god. Thank you so much!!!!

[@BearDraughon]

Dude thanks for the simple concise info. So many people blab about nothing for the first half of the video

[@anthonvanderneut]

Finally part 2!

[@kennethjacot8586]

Great video. After looking at van options, I picked a Ford Transit medium roof, medium wheelbase. After 1 1/2 yrs, no problem, gets 18.3 mpg. Seemed the best van for the long run.

[@factfigures85]

I like your videos and way of talk

[@habanero8192]

Hi Moser, ... thanks for the very well prepared and informative video. I want to offer a quick piece of information, from my personal extensive experience, regarding Sprinter Vans. I may be more familiar than most people with this van as my family had a 1970s version of it's predecessor in Europe. I also drove the "modern" version of this van as a wine tour guide, and, believe it has plenty of issues. One of the really serious issues is that the engine itself is very reliant on the turbo for power. In the areas where I drove, vineyards, as you might imagine, there were a lot of sharp inclines and declines. On a sharp incline the Sprinter is absolute garbage. Even with the transmission set in the lowest gear to prevent the following, the Sprinter will come to a full-stop and then suddenly the turbo will kick in and everything and everybody in the van will get violently tossed. It has no low-end torque. The interior is well enough but really not that good. With regards to Pro Masters, I've heard that getting in and out of the vehicle is less than ideal and that a lot of people end up injuring themselves as it is not very well designed. Moser, many thanks again for this wonderful video!

[@udmbfckx2916]

The MB is an "endless money pit" (insert Scotty's face here)....Some poor soul had to replace the catalytic in his older diesel, an it was over $7K (WTH?) And the new diesel ones are more expensive and require "premier", VERY expensive maintenance, forget about repair$. Even if the older ones are still reliable, are you ready to pay another 50% of whatever you bought the used MB for in repairs? This one is for people above middle class and/or long term/high mileage commercial fleets....unless you are willing to buy the base 2.0 Turbo (it is still MB-maintenance expensive in the long term).Yes, they can last a long time, just be ready to give up your firstborn, right arm, left testicle, wife, etc.... I don't see either the Ram Promaster nor the Ford Transit surviving well in the long run. The Promaster's Chrysler 3.6L- V6 is decent enough to last at least 100K and maybe even 150K if taken care of....The transmission? Not a chance! The cabin is one step ahead of the Ford although it suffers from some quirks. The Ford has lots of problems with the application of the hardware, little things falling apart here and there, the quality is rather sub-standard. And although the Ecoboost is a hoot to drive, remember that a boosted NON-DIESEL engine will not last as long as a turbo-diesel , most likely it will fail before the normally aspirated 3.7L engine. I rather have the 3.7 with HD parts, oil coolers, etc, in the same vein police and city cars are equipped, for longevity purposes. The bonus for Ford is the addition of AWD (but it doesn't mean off-road!) Ironically, this leaves one vehicle that was discarded from the get-go and one vehicle that was barely mentioned and was never in the competition. The Nissan Van is more reliably economical in the long run than anything above. Its biggest faults are that it is on the small end, drives more truckish-like and it is a dated design when compared with anything above. If I was to go small, this would be the one, but with Nissan's proven V6 and not the thirstier V8. Ex-CEO Carlos Ghosn was not able to screw-up the reliability like he has on other Nissan products. It would be perfect with a longer wheelbase. The Chevrolet Express did not qualify because of the lack of a hi-top, a valid point, but this can be fixed with a $4000 Fiberine top, which is the best quality out there, although it will never have the factory look. You have to consider that GM's LS-V8 "ancient-but-modern" engines and transmissions will last almost as long as the MB above but at a purchase price similar to the Ford or Promaster with the added benefit of a very low repair incidence and a very low repair cost. It is also a more "Heavy Duty" design than the Transit or Promaster, meaning sturdier components...Besides the lack of the high top, everything else outside the powertrain is very ancient (90's), the looks will be UTTERLY HATED by most young people, and the MPGs on the 6.0-V8 will be lower than the sixes and the diesel above. But this engine can be easily fixed ANYWHERE in North America and the cost to replace it, down the road when it dies after 220,000+ miles, together with the transmission, will be HALF of what some poor soul paid for an MB 'Cataclysmic' Catalytic. The Chevy comes in a 155 and 135 wheelbases. For all of the above, you have to consider your budget and your application. In my case I would like to get lost in the wilderness in the Chevy, knowing that I can depend on the hardware with no worries and that any engine issues can be fixed in any far-off small town garage since the engine has no complicated designs in the way of multiple valves, multiple overhead cams and turbos....it is just one simple pushrod V8 from the company that has manufactured the largest amount of small blocks V8s,

[@blackreacher]

Got a promaster 1500 with 172000 miles and transmission works well. Just bought a 2500

[@hailexiao2770]

None of these vans (except maybe the Sprinter) will have trouble being maintained even deep in the boonies--the local tradesmen and contractors will be driving them by the hundreds. Parts are as standard and as plentiful as anything GM makes. OHC and multiple valves are hardly complicated and any mechanic worth their salt will be familiar with them. As for the Promaster transmission, sure it's not going to last as long as a HD longitudinal one, but it's cheap to rebuild or replace. Just treat it as a 100K mile wear item.

[@gumbynomad]

Love how it was just straight to the point. Also SUPER cool to have all the numbers compared like that! Thanks for sharing!!

[@kalimanblack]

Be Honest.... The Mercedes Sprinter is a Piece of SHHH!! Avoid It!!

[@lanceappleby5082]

you can buy a whole 50k Transit drivetrain for half the cost of a used 200k transit motor haha

[@sicdavid6292]

The 4x4 Low roof 148 Transit with V6 twin turbo and a pop top makes life good. Thank you Quadvan and Sportsmobile for being so honest and professional. Sorry Quigley I couldn't spend $7,500 for shipping from the West Coast. The Quadvan Transit conversion handles better anyway.

[@fromjarrod]

Either way your screwed their all relatively unreliable and expensive to repair. Wish Toyota had a crack at this van size market

[@1voiceofstl]

The caravan and the Pacifica are more reliable then the toyota.

[@simpsons721]

You're a smart dude! I had an issue with water getting in my engine bay and had no clue why on transit 2019. I just took it to the dealership because it is under warranty. They didn't tell me to make sure to keep area clear so that is a great tip. They said they are replacing something on the windshield. The dimensions you listed would of save me lots of time before purchasing. Rock on

[@jstokely2]

Thanks, very informative. I am leaning to the same configuration that you have. Currently we are weekend warriors with our 2009 Toyota Sienna but within the next 5 years we want to be in a full size van like yours. I think the Transit configuration is the better one also. Thanks again!

[@MsThebeMoon]

Best video so far on comparing the three type Cargo Vans. Thank you.