Van Build Cost Breakdown - 98' Astro Van Camper Conversion Costs

[@TravelingTroy]

My math is actually off on the example Apartment breakdown. I screwed up the math. Here is the correction: 2015: $625x12=$7500 1016: $750x12=$9000 2017: $875x12=$10500 2018: $1000x12=$12000 2019: $1125x12=$13500 2020: $1250x12=$15000 Total: $67,500

[@hauk3839]

You could have built couple van builds. In apartment you probly couldn't have the same experience though.

[@TravelingTroy]

@@hauk3839 Absolutely! I have seen quite a bit since leaving apartment life.

[@VidiverseExplorer]

I appreciate when folk care for older vehicles.

[@crippyandkaatje]

Troy, the van was worth every penny and the energy you put into it. You build this with your dad! These are precious memories (even the frustrated moments!) and that panel your dad made is fantastic. That made me teart eyed, seeing how careful it was laid out and the nifty construction. I lost both parents in 2020, and trust me, you made the right choice. You're doing a great service for people, fantastic video!

[@mikehiers]

Troy, I also built out an 2001 Astro AWD LS. It's a bit longer It's a bit scary how similar your ideas were to mine. This is perhaps vain, but here's the modifications I have made to an Astro: 1. Fantastic Fan...Poked a hole, just like you. 2. Swivel Passenger seat. Interior LED's 3. 420 watts solar panels ...295 AH Marine Batteries 4. Ripped out entire vehicle except front seats. Includes $1000 to remove rear heat unit. It was as large as a lawn mower! 5. All interior, roof, sidewalls...shiny Kilmat 6. Beautiful floor, like you. Insulation, plywood. Grey tile. 7. Full Twin Bed. 8. Roll out storage racks on casters under bed 9. 400 watt oil radiator for heat. Solar powered. 10 Shower system on roof. 11. Large Freezer/Fridge between front seats. 12. Front hitch bike rack. 13. Rear Cargo Carrier that contains all cooking gear and a 20 lb. propane tank. 14. 18 gallons of H2O on Board 15. inside ceiling nets for quite a bit of cargo 16. Underbed storage for shovel, axes, tool kit, automotive needs, extra car battery, jump kit, water filter.

[@thezogs95]

You saved over 40,000 living in this van. Amazing

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks! Pretty cool, for sure. ✌️

[@miguelvillalobos5879]

no brainer, awesome build! a new van build seems to start in the 10K range without the purchase of the van!

[@TravelingTroy]

True. I see a lot of expensive builds out there these days. My smaller van might be less comfortable, but I like that it is also less expensive. 😉 Thanks for checking out the video. ✌️

[@foote1967]

Living in the van....it's worth it and doesn't take long to recover the cost incurred. The longer you do this...the more you save in the long run!

[@TravelingTroy]

Very true. Good point! 👍✌️

[@StaticCamperVan]

Since you bought a van that is repairable and can continue to be repaired, you made a good decision. Had you bought a new van, you might have saved a little over the first few years. But you would be looking at replacing the van soon. New vans just aren’t as repairable as your Astro.

[@TravelingTroy]

For a van produced from 1985-2005, there are a ton of them still out on the road. I saw three Astros the other day, while dipping into Quartzsite real quick. To your point, maybe they realized their mistake....Don’t build them to last, or we‘ll never sell another new vehicle. 😁✌️

[@snotbubbles3276]

I just bought a 2005 AWD Astro w/ 99k miles for 11k, they wanted 14k. Im sure after build out without solar im looking at 3k for the entire inside. Then another 5k for the exterior that would include suspension, lift, any leaks, and 4x4 transfer case swap. But i priced several other vans that were newer and I was looking at 16k to 24k without any build. I figure if I can come in at under 20k, then the resale value should be around 15k. I wouldnt expect to profit or collect any serious money if the van was totaled. Its all about the experience and the journey during travelling. Plus these vans have inexpensive parts compared to Sienna or the Odyssey. I have some old Tools from when my Dad was a TV repair man so I can fix it. I like your build out thanks for sharing.

[@TravelingTroy]

Awesome! Congrats on get the 05 AWD. Hard to find van, in good shape. The price…Wow! I haven’t price-checked vans in a while, but I imagine used van prices have doubled due to lack of inventory. Seems like vanlife is continuing to grow and not just a fad. Good luck with your build and you are correct, it’s about the journey. 👍 I just completed my 6th year in this van a few weeks ago. Starting #7. 😉

[@noelnoel433]

Your father is a blessing ....Beautiful !!!Thank You

[@TravelingTroy]

Oh for sure! My Dad had a huge influence on my van build. We had a great time building it. 😁✌️

[@David-rx2to]

I think you did well as you have the experience of a build to serve you in the future. Besides the obvious savings vs sticks and bricks living, I think the most valuable component of this story is the time spent with your Dad. 👍

[@TravelingTroy]

Correct. It was the most time I had ever spent with my Dad. The work was tough, but fun and I did learn a lot. My Mom and Dad were divorced when I was young, so it was the typical every other weekend and some special occasions for visits. We’re definitely closer now, than ever. 😃 Thanks for checking out the video, David. 👍

[@David-rx2to]

@@TravelingTroy glad to hear that. Time spent with your parents is precious, especially as they grow older. I recently lost my mother, and my advice to you is to spend as much time with your parents as you can so you have no regrets when they're gone.

[@TravelingTroy]

@@David-rx2to Agreed. Sorry for your loss. 😕 My mom passed away just before I completed my van build. She was so excited for me and the adventures ahead. We talked about her meeting up with me on the road one day. She was even watching other travel KZbinrs. My Dad bought an RV and we meet up in Colorado for summer fun each year (minus this past pandemic year). I’ll be heading to Texas to visit with my Dad in April, then on to Houston to see friends/family, then off to Colorado for a meet up with my Dad. Probably do some river rafting. 👍✌️

[@rogeriorodriguez1212]

Seriously Troy you are the real deal very glad that you made your channel very glad that you share the knowledge that you've acquired over time with all of us. This makes my journey so much simpler to understand and give me a better perspective on where I'm going

[@TravelingTroy]

Cool deal! Glad this was helpful. 👍

[@richardfischer7486]

I agee

[@darronsanderson4837]

Troy, if time, can you please make a video on all the mechanical work you have done on the van? I mean more detail on the maintenance and major repairs.

[@OntheRoadLiving]

Considering you’ve had some big repair bills, I think you’ve done well

[@TravelingTroy]

After completing the build, I figured I would probably fix any issues, maybe even an engine swap. Thanks for watching. ✌️

[@Drmikekuna]

Personally, I don't think you made a mistake. By doing all of the build yourself you saved a ton of money, and I think your repair costs are reasonable to low, especially when you consider how old your Astro is. I have a 2018 (bought new) Promaster that I converted into a camper and just spent over $700 to have a cable replaced for the back door latch! ($650 for P and L and an approx $50 for a who knows what fee). I love my Promaster, but I worry that the overall construction quality will lead to even more bills in the future. In the day I had a new Astrovan that we used as a family minivan. The van was solid, but it also had its issues. In very freezing weather, the plastic door handles broke, and I had other issues. I pulled a hybrid camper with it and after a trip to the mountains, I had to have some major work on the transmission. This may have been due to some screw-up that I did, but I honestly don't know what that would have been. People say the Astrovans are indestructible as are Suburbans (I also had one of those... I'm an old guy so I have had a bunch of different cars over the years). I can say that all cars, including those two, wear out and it is imperative to maintain them. It sounds like you take care of your van and it is my hope that it will give you many more years of service. Best of luck to you!

[@000one]

Troy, Love your vids and watch most. Where I live, rent is $1,000-1,350 a month. You wouldn’t want to live anywhere else for less. So lets say 1 year at $1,075 a month is $12,900 For just one year. You beat that by a mile. You can’t really fairly add the van repairs into the equation unless you can factor in the cost of using it more and you should at least figure that 60% of the repair costs would occur anyway. If you live in a 1,075 a month rental, you still have some repair costs, tires and other things. As far as buying an ?18,000.00 RV instead, you do not want to pay the fuel bill on a V10 or diesel @ 6-10 miles per gallon. An oil change on a diesel is over $100, and when you have troubles with a diesel you have BIG troubles. An injector can cost as much as your oil change. A V10 Pulling tons of RV weight is never a good long term idea. Those tires are 2-3 times the price as your tires. You can go places you can’t ever take a big old class C. And you will have to pay much more camp site fees, and forget about stealth camping. I am now on my 3rd Astro van. They do require attention to be good vans. At times all three of mine nickel and dime me, but never left me with hugh repair bills. My 2005 AWD Astro seems to be a bit better made and the 6 bolt lugs and stronger suspension seem to be more reliable. I think you are much better off in your Astro financially. Maybe you need to rent a house and see how much things have gone up in the last 6 years. Thanks for the great vids Troy. They are very helpful.

[@richardzollinger4750]

Best Astro build I've seen so far! Excellent job. Your dad should start a business building Astrofari's!!!

[@TravelingTroy]

Cool deal. Thanks for the feedback. Right, if my Dad wasn’t already enjoying retirement, he might have considered a van build biz. 😉✌️

[@sloburnnn]

Your living “rent free”. You’ve saved so much money. A class b rv could have deprecated by a lot. Plus you took time to realize that you like this lifestyle. I think your van being in such good condition at the time of purchase , has been blessing. At least your engine have to be replaced or transmission.

[@TravelingTroy]

Yes, this lifestyle has saved me from spending money, for sure.

[@robwalker7496]

I think you made the right choice with the astro van.

[@TravelingTroy]

Well, I just completed my 6th year in this van in June 2021. I feel its been a good choice, thus far. 👍 Thanks for the feedback.

[@ET_Videos]

Interesting numbers. I think you "might" have been better off buying a bit newer van, but that's really hard to say without a time machine, lol. Thanks for doing all the math, it was very enlightening.

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks Eric. Yes, I’m glad I ran the numbers, just to see where I stood. 👍 I plan to live this lifestyle for a while, so there could be a different vehicle in my future. 🤔 Thanks for checking out the video! ✌️

[@cadillacjack1293]

If your Happy that's all that matters. For sure cheaper than apartment. TY for sharing Build cost. I have been considering a home on wheels and this helps me justify looking at an already built RV in the 20-30k range. I don't have the skill you and your Dad, btw he did an awesome job on that control center ! I really admired that craftmanship. Happy Trails Troy !

[@TravelingTroy]

Good choice. I was considering going the pre-built RV route as well, at first, but decided to start small to see if I like the lifestyle. I guess I do. 😁 Indeed, I always try to remember to give my Dad plenty of credit in my videos. My van would be much different, super basic, if I would have built it on my own. I did, however learn SOOO much during the 3 year build process from my Dad. I could do most if it on my own now, if I were to do build 2.0, but the electrical is still tricky.😉 Thanks for watching. I appreciate it. ✌️

[@robertoysusaventuras8795]

in the Astro van you could be and go every where, parking lots, cities, offroad, and you have a brand new astro, no worries for more repairs

[@TravelingTroy]

Exactly! Besides an engine swap, most work is done. 😁 Hopefully, many more years left in my Astro. 🤙

[@emmieHD]

Really interesting seeing the breakdown. Thanks for sharing.

[@TravelingTroy]

Sure thing. Glad you liked it. 😁

[@darronsanderson4837]

Excellent work Troy. Excellent video. Scott

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks bud! 😁

[@darronsanderson4837]

@@TravelingTroy DC and I, (my other friend is DC), we installed new injectors, and gaskets. I will do mine next month.

[@campervanventure7627]

This was a great break down of everything! Thank you so much for these numbers and information brother. Keep up the great work!

[@TravelingTroy]

Sure thing! Glad the details helped. Thanks for watching. 🤙

[@richardfischer7486]

A very informative video. Good financial layout over six year period.

[@richardfischer7486]

Keep on banning Troy :)

[@richardfischer7486]

*Keep on vanning Troy

[@carlmizell5930]

Earlier I wrote a comment about getting a newer van , I believe I was to judgmental, you would still have the repairs but you will ever get a vehicle new enough to avoid repairs for $200-700 a month, you probably made the right move.

[@TravelingTroy]

One of my goals when buying/building this van was to do it without using financing or credit cards. This was a cash build, which extended the build time as I built the van in stages when the funds were available. Not that there’s anything wrong with going the credit route, I just try to avoid it. 👍

[@zach914v8]

I think you did great! The astro was the way to go, if you bought an 18k motorhome I'm sure your total repairs would have been even higher. You could have saved yourself a fortune by doing the repairs yourself. I am a ase master technician, so when I converted my 1994 astro I did save a bundle. Unfortunately or fortunately depending how you look at it I will probably never live in it, I own a home and I am in the process of opening up my own automotive repair business. So Troy if you ever find yourself in the Tyler Texas area needing automotive repairs, hit me up. Maybe we can barter, I do need a website! Great video Troy, I'll be watching.

[@TravelingTroy]

Right! I was looking at used Class B RVs first, then thought about how expensive it could be to keep one on the road. Part of living in a van is you don’t really have a place to work on it, with the right tools. There’s nothing more frustrating than starting a repair job, then realizing you don’t have the right tools/parts. I have done some work on my van at auto part parking lots though. 👍 Good luck with your repair business in Tyler! That’s cool! I ran my own computer consulting business in Houston, back in the day, for 14 years. Nothing like being the boss...even though I had no employees. 🤣

[@hldye7442]

No ! No Debt = No Payments = More Freedom / Buying and paying as you go is wise . I work as a Remodeling Contractor and use this method on my work trucks and Business. I do not value my trucks and vans by Kellys Blue Book or a car salesman. You are doing well so keep up the good work. Lee from Tennessee.

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks Lee. Life seems a lot less stressful when you can reduce your debt and eliminate as many monthly payments as possible. 😁 Thanks for your feedback. 👍

[@susun9susun]

Regardless of what vehicle you bought there would still be mechanical repairs, maybe less, maybe more. Unless you buy something brand new that’s under warranty. Plus if you had a larger rv, you may have been towing a smaller run around vehicle that may have needed the odd repair 🤷‍♀️ I think you made a good choice 😊

[@TravelingTroy]

True. Any vehicle would need some sort of repairs after 6 years, even one under warranty. My little van is still doing well. Enjoying it. 😉 Thanks for watching.

[@charliestrickland6194]

Thanks for this! I bought a '99 Astro a year ago and am not able to finish the build due to repairs. I'm living in it, regardless. I often wonder if it's worth it. This video has given me some perspective.

[@TravelingTroy]

Excellent Charlie! Glad the video was helpful. Repair work was also part of the delay for my build. As I say in the video, I was traveling to my Dad’s place to do the work, well when a mechanical issue came up, I had to fix it before continuing with the build. Good luck. Hope you can get the build completed over time, but try not to beat my record for longest van build in history. 🤣😂

[@charliestrickland6194]

@@TravelingTroy Ha..not looking for records..just a habitable place to live. No place to go like you did. I joke with the mechanics..if I can't stay overnight at your garage then you need to make this a one day repair!

[@TravelingTroy]

That brings up a good point. I tried not to nitpick on every minor detail in this video, but I did forget about hotel/motels. Sometimes, when getting repair work done, you have to get a room for the night or a few nights. 🤔 That stuff adds up! 👍

[@000one]

i would never encourage van life. I have only done a 1 month long trek as my longest. its a mix of pleasure/pain lol. Not easy, but so freeing, and “for me” the good far exceeds the bad. Troy doesn’t seem to encourage people to do this. He obviously is aware of his responsibility to not encourage others that would enter into what could be a disasterous situation. Lots of people quit their job and sell their belongings, only to find that they made a serious mistake. Lots of guys on the internet making money doing that. This has become an industry, and where there is money to be made, there is an opprotunity for people to cater to their sponsors without caring about their audience. Thanks Troy for not being an opportunist. Your only sponsor is your dad lol.

[@MKEL_1327]

that was a great video .. Astros tend to be money pits and it was interesting to see how it broke down for you .. I kind of figure "the Build" as what you want to do... even though it came out of pocket it didn't have to for it to be a usable vehicle ... I know I have a lot more than I want to talk about in my Safari van.... right now you could probably sell that for around 10k maybe ... you are ahead by near 50k on savings.

[@graceiovine3080]

Good video for the real numbers vs stix and bricks and used van and living full time on the road. I might see you on the road soon in my soon to be converted 2016 Ford Transit 250 low top van. Happy trails. 👣

[@TravelingTroy]

Excellent! Good luck with your build. I plan to live this lifestyle for many more years, either in my Astro or something else. 👍 I like seeing what others do with their builds. Thanks for watching. ✌️

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks for taking the time to watch my videos. If you're looking to build a van in the future, I hope this video gives you an idea of what to expect when converting a used van. I absolutely love my van and wouldn't change a thing, but I would love to hear what you think. Thanks!

[@darronsanderson4837]

Well done on your van build and all the great videos you make Troy. I have a lot to still do to my white Astro van. I need much better insulation, roof fan, solar, fridge, sink, a lot. Scott

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks Scott. Yeah, it’s a process getting a build done. Whew! Don’t know if I could do another. 😉 Hope this baby keeps rolling. ✌️

[@vega1975]

@@darronsanderson4837 I am a retired trucker if you want a starter 12 volt fridge look at truck stop . Now the one at the truck stop are not a compressor but a great starter. I have one that ran 5 to 6 day week in my truck for 3 years and yes it still works.

[@kathrynarnold1966]

An older Class B still needs LOTS of updating... appliances, lighting and power converter may require replacing, ditto for the mattress, upholstry and carpeting, there's sure to be window and/or roof leaks, rust is an issue, plumbing fittings, pump and water heater may need replacing, and much of the suspension may be slam wore out because of the extra weight. I know, I bought one. And mechanics get squirrely about anything extra under the hood such as wiring.

[@TravelingTroy]

Hi there Kathryn. Some of the first videos on my channel were of me checking out RVs, especially Class B RVs at RV dealerships. I liked how you got everything in a small package and didn’t have to build anything with a Class B. I agree with you though, lots of work and updating would need to be done and many of them were around the same age as my Astro van, so mechanical work would need to be done as well. At the time, I didn’t know if I would do this lifestyle long term, so the expense wasn’t worth the risk. Of course, now I want to live this lifestyle forever. 😁

[@connorb6150]

To answer your question: NO. I don't think you a mistake. You invested 18k over six years for your home. Like you said at the end of the video, it is cheaper. AND on top of that, it's an experience you can't have else you have that kind of vehicle. Plus, working on your own vehicle and making it your own really is fun (at least in my opinion). Trying to get started on my own build project. Got the van, just need to get moving lol. Can't wait to get to that level. I've taken inspiration from your van for my interior and started planning it out. Hopefully mine will come out as clean-looking as yours! Happy Travels!

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks Conner! Glad this has inspired you. Good luck with your van build and future travels. 😁✌️

[@imperfectadventure]

Wow! This is so so helpful!! Thank you!

[@TravelingTroy]

Great! Glad you liked the video. 👍✌️

[@michaeliulamusic]

Thanks for the video very informative -You did a hell of a job on your Van build . We are on our second astro and thinking about taking some trips with it . thanks again !

[@TravelingTroy]

Nice! For sure, get out with it. 😉 Thanks for checking out the video. ✌️

[@badas45]

It seems like a worthwhile investment, after 6 years you may need more space,maybe your could put a pop top tent on it for extra room

[@TravelingTroy]

Yes, more space would be great. For now, I do an inventory of what is in the van about every 6 months (or more) and get rid of things I’m not using. If you just keep buying stuff, you could fill up on Astro van quick. 😁✌️

[@anitasimmons3599]

One nice thing about starting out with an older vehicle and building it out over time is you did not have to pay interest to a bank, and you got just what you need. If you had to replace the vehicle you still can use alot of your build in the next vehicle. Also your taxes, insurance ect' were cheaper over those years than they would have been on something else. We upgraded our minivan after just about two years when it had, 200,000 miles on it. Our camping build is primitive and does not Intel doing anything perminate to the minivan, so we put all the original seats back in it and sold it to our mechanic. We did some minor cheap modifications to our previous camping setup and now can take the middle row out of the minivan and store them in the living room. It take less than 20 minutes to stow the third row, put in the bed platform, load up the Chuck Box Camp Kitchen and other gear and go. The best thing for us is we don't have to pay to store an RV and we get incredible gas mileage. The minivan is also one of our daily drivers. The bigger the vehicle the higher maintenance costs as well as insurance. I feel you did a very nice build on a frugal budget. Thank you for another great video, safe travels.

[@TravelingTroy]

Thank you for your feedback, Anita. You make some good points on interest, insurance and others. 👍 I absolutely love the idea of a “transferable” build. I’ve recently watched some videos from YT channel “Eric Enjoys Earth” and he shows how he built a great setup for his mini van. The build is easily “transferable” to another similar mini van if major repairs are needed on the original van. What a great idea. 😁 My build could be moved to another Astro van, but it wouldn’t be quick. 😂 I will for sure use the transferable concept in my next build (some day down the road). Thanks for watch and commenting. Really appreciate it. ✌️

[@richardobannon6301]

Very helpful video, Thanks!

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks! 👍

[@johnmcfall2696]

I would suggest that you could also add vehicle maintenance and service over that same six year period and your total would have been higher than the $65,000 that you calculated.

[@TravelingTroy]

True. I just kept it to a baseline comparison. I’ll probably make a full van vs apt video in the future.

[@pauljayvlogs489]

If you enjoyed it. It's worth it.

[@TravelingTroy]

I truly do enjoy it. Someone reminded me today to think about that view from the window of your old apartment. That same view every day. (True story, my window looked out at a wood fence) Now, think about all the different views you wake up to from the van. She asked me “What’s that worth?” Interesting way to look at it. Thanks for watching Paul. I appreciate it. ✌️

[@stevenmammano8783]

If you're spending ~10k on a camper anyways you may as well get what you want and then put the work into it so you know what has been done. I got my Astro for cheap and have had to do a bunch of work to it, but at least know many things are updated now as opposed to a mystery of mechanicals on something more expensive and complex to fix. Most expensive has been updating the fuel injection system.

[@TravelingTroy]

True Steven. 👍 Thanks!

[@000one]

I may splurge and upgrade my comfort level and buy a hightop full size E250 or something like that someday, but the costs for that room and comfort will go up. I have tried to think this way: I dont live in my van, I live out of my van. I dont need a contained shower, i need to be clean and maintain good hygiene. Right now I only travel in it, so I have no Idea what it would be like to leave my home in Florida and leave all behind. But the cost of going “BIGGER” includes not being able to go off road a bit and loose my stealth status, fuel milage, tire costs, the ability to fix my van myself, and many other costs. You loose to gain. I guess it a balancing act. I am experimenting with a 1/4 inch thick steel box as a fire place for 2-3 one pint crisco candles(not done yet). The crisco candles seem to last about 10-15 days depending on how much use they get, and they do put out heat with slightly bigger wicks. No way it would work in a bigger taller van. Keep up the good work. You are helping others.

[@dee5331]

Thks awesome

[@billwiley7216]

If you figure the entire cost of $18,215 over 6 years it only figures to be about $253.00 a month over that entire timeframe for everything. Even if you could find a low mileage newer vehicle that you could just purchase for the cost of 253.00 a month it would not be including the cost of a build out and if you think pretty much any vehicle in that price range is going to go 6 years without needing repairs like brakes, tires, battery etc., it is not likely so your Astro is the most economical overall. Another advantage is the powertrain of the Astro shares many common parts with the S-10 and the v-6 Silverado which there are millions on the road so parts generally are easy to find and in stock at most major auto parts stores and at a very reasonable cost as compared to some other options. I have a 98 AWD Astro I am going to do a mild weekend type of camper build, not full time but the one thing I see so many that do builds is add in a lot of unneeded and unnecessary weight when they do the build which hurts fuel mileage, acceleration/power and taxes the suspension more. Like ceiling and wall panels why use heavy wood which moisture can affect rather than use a thinner lighter shower board which is thinner, lighter and designed for use in moisture laden environments? Same with flooring, if you use a good dense foam base under the floor between the van flooring and the subfloor there really is no need for any sub flooring under say top layer of vinyl flooring to be more than about 1/4" thick as neither the dense foam nor the stock metal van underflooring is going to allow for much compression hence eliminating the need for thick, heavy wood flooring as an underlayment, again allowing for a much lighter and plenty strong floor. Same with things like bed frames why not use lighter weight aluminum channel for the frame and metal conduit for the legs again strong and light weight to build the frame and if built correctly a piece of 1/4" plyboard for the mattress base should be plenty for a person of reasonable size and weight? Astro/Safari in my opinion are great for smaller van set ups and keeping the weight low as possible in the actual buildout allows for more to be carried as far as gear or accessories. Most people never consider the gross vehicle weight capacities of vehicles when doing their "camper" conversions. Actually it is funny as even if you go look at the amount of weight that can be added to most actual RV's before they are exceeding their gross weight limit is ridiculously a very small amount because of the weight of the empty rv on the chassis it is built on.

[@mannyvaldes1101]

You do the right desition because the more bigger rv more cost gasoline plus and also in tha moment you do no have a lot $

[@kathrynarnold1966]

You can sell the current rig for way over KBB. Between the proceeds and what you saved in rent you could do rig 2.0.

[@TravelingTroy]

True. If I were to sell, I could definitely get over the kkb value. Haha! As for rig 2.0, I could go in a few directions: super stealth mini van, bigger & newer cargo van, step van, box truck, Class B or 4x4 truck camper. Not sure which, but the little Astro is home for now. 😉 Thanks for watching!

[@kathrynarnold1966]

@@TravelingTroy The 4x4 truck camper is tempting. Downside of those is height...one low branch and big regret for taking the wrong backcountry road...backing up it's even worse to navigate low branches. My Class B is 10' tall and 9,000lbs. That's restrictive right there. I damaged my a/c shroud pulling into a friend's driveway that I had previously only gone in my little hatchback. I've been warned to avoid sand. And right in my yard here I've learned that the wheels can sink deep into damp soil.

[@TravelingTroy]

Good points. Truck campers are high profile. The little mini vans are so versatile, but so limited on space. Haha! Comfort vs Freedom. Get a bigger rig and you are comfortable, but really lack the ability to go where ever you want. Get a small van and you lose comfort, but can go almost anywhere. The Dilemma of it all. 🤣

[@kathrynarnold1966]

@@TravelingTroy One thing about the old-style Class Bs is that nowadays they can be converted to 4x4 for about $20K.

[@afan.pasalic]

Hey Troy, Nice video. There were couple "triggering points" for me. 😀 Now, back to your question... Even you put down $4000 and both new/newer van, you would still spend $5175 to build the interior and solar panels, and etc. So, I think you have to exclude this number from your math. Means, you spent on your van $12,500 - not big chance you would find much better van for that price and not have any costs in last 5.5 years. Tires, and regular maintenance you have to do regardless what you have, right? But, if you go with small, 21' RV Class C (Class B vehicles are RELLY expensive) - that's other story. Bit harder to compare. Gas mileage difference can have big impact, right?

[@TravelingTroy]

Hi there. You are correct, the build cost would be there regardless of it being a used or newer van. However, the build cost could be better managed by cutting costs in certain areas. Also, a bigger van would mean more build materials. Maybe not a huge difference, but if I had more space, I might have built a shower/wet bath. 🤔. Thanks for you input. 👍

[@oldmanmtb1443]

You did good. Those van repair will last another 10 years or so thats the cost of owning a vehicle luckily I can do my own repairs. If you or anyone thinks those repair on the van is a lot try dropping off a class B or A at the rv shop. Those rv takes a lot of money to maintain.

[@TravelingTroy]

Thanks Rusty. Yes…I bet the repairs would crazy high compared to my Astro. Good point. ✌️

[@bradgrand79]

Probably pretty safe to double the lumber today

[@weswalker1208]

Alright I already subscribed to you it was brought to my attention by another KZbinr to come by and take a look. I have a question. I saw three pictures from CC (code for locals) I do .Do you live there?

[@Darkhorse5150]

What size tires are the bf goodrich your running

[@hauk3839]

Does it have 4x4. Can is paid off. You can change your front porch when you want. I made build with van but key for me is easy transition to another van if this one has issues but hasnt yet. These town and country's have lots of options

[@TravelingTroy]

My van is just rwd. My old apartment had one window and it looked out at the neighbors fence. LOL 😂 Not much of a view. The van has changed that. I get a new view, every time I move. I like the idea of converting a mini van, building stand alone components for easy transfer to the next van. Great idea! 👍✌️Thanks for watching!

[@kathrynarnold1966]

Why did you switch from AGMs to lithium?

[@TravelingTroy]

Well, my AGM batteries were wearing down and couldn’t keep my refrigerator going overnight. The Lithium battery was twice the price, but also twice the amps and took up less space that the two AGM batteries. You can also run a lithium battery down all the way without damaging it, unlike with AGM batteries where you’re supposed to keep them above 50% which can be a hassle to manage.

[@kathrynarnold1966]

@@TravelingTroy Good reasons...but what a pricetag!

[@TravelingTroy]

@@kathrynarnold1966 Sure is expensive. 🤑 Do you follow Brian (AdventureVanMan)? He just put 4 of these batteries in his new box truck. Ouch!! That’ll set ya back.

[@j.c.v7628]

thats 250ish a month.. thats not bad at all.

[@TravelingTroy]

Indeed. This gives me a number, the $250/month, to go by when I decide to make a van life monthly expenses video. Thanks for watching. ✌️

[@ebombglass]

How many miles did you do in that time? The difference between a v8 and v6 adds up over 6yrs in fuel.

[@TravelingTroy]

I drove just over 50,000 miles over the 6 years. Actually, I did way more driving when I lived in Houston. Now that I’m full time traveling, I find a cool spot for a week or two and the van rests. 😉 I’ve barely cracked $100 in fuel the past 3 months combined. 👍 Thanks for checking out the video.

[@bigdawg1108]

Is it all wheel drive?

[@TravelingTroy]

I tried to find a good awd Astro in my area, but no luck, so mine is rwd. 👍

[@vega1975]

You forgot fuel Astro van gets 18 to 20 mpg class C 8 to 11 mpg how much in fuel saving being in an astro van per year over a gas hog van ?

[@TravelingTroy]

True. Astro vans do get better gas mileage. 😉 I made this video to get kind of a base line on what this van has cost me over 6 years. Now, I know I’ve been averaging about $250/month on just the van. I’ll make another video with this data and include all other expenses like fuel, oil changes...etc. Monthly cost of van life. 👍

[@vega1975]

@@TravelingTroy Thank you for the come back and yes i am looking for an AWD sstro van for 3/4 time life i am retied and getting my finance in order ( iIE selling my house in CT and buying rental property,s in SC)

[@TravelingTroy]

Well, good luck with your search. I had trouble tracking down an AWD Astro van near my hometown, back when I first started looking. They weren’t too popular down south, it seemed. Congrats on the retirement. 👍 It sounds like you’ve got a plan. That’s cool! Thanks for checking out the video. ✌️

[@thechristinediane]

The build phase breakdown is superbly useful. Where did you source your engine mounts? Looking ahead; will be a needed repair as soon as I can afford it.

[@TravelingTroy]

Well, my mechanic did the engine mount replacement, along with many other things. Not sure where he ordered the parts. I guess I’m like a NASCAR driver, I drive the track, describe my issues to my crew chief, bring the van into the pit , they make the adjustments, I get back out on the track and it all works. 😁 But seriously, my van was shaking violently at traffic lights, when idling, which was due to loose engine mount. Much smoother ride after the repair. 👍

[@peterwhitcomb8315]

I've been looking at Astro Vans (which is why your videos are probably popping up as suggested views. Dang cookies). With the astronomical cost of apartment living and wages lagging behind those rent increases Van Life is why it is no so dang hard to find vans. Yeah, van life is considerable cheaper than apartment living. Now the negative stigma needs to go away.

[@UnitedWaySB]

Kelly Blue Book doesn’t mean much these days that van is worth almost double that these days.

[@tomflarida825]

I think the adventurer's you got to have was worth more than the money you put in

[@alexcolima7894]

Can’t stealth camp in a RV

[@TravelingTroy]

Ah, Yes! Very true. I spent my first 2 1/2 years stealth camping on the streets of Houston. Life would have been different in an RV. Good point, Alex! 👍😉

[@mtdewyx]

97 Astro Chariot conversion Van 2wd. 85k miles. $3000.00 . 6 months. Throw carpet non-shag 2 layers. Futon sofa bed. Walmart 4-6 drawer dressers. Battery jump pack. Wood desk. Tool plastic stackable crates. 1000w solar battery. Freezer/refrige from trckstop. Largest tablet u can afford using 2 cell pH holders sticks to window .😊 Coleman propane stove. Fabric screen n magnets.

[@craftymulligar]

One cost that would of saved a lot of money maybe you did dont remember is make sure you get the vehicle inspected by mechanic before you buy it even if your a mechanic. The shop has electronic tools to scan for problems. The mechanic drove many types of vehicles they would know how they surpose to act. I got burned many times by this stupid mistake that set me back in time and money not doing it.

[@megankaywright]

That’s only about $250 per month living in the van

[@TravelingTroy]

Yeah, that’s the way I look at it. $250/month isn’t bad for living+vehicle expenses. 😁 Though, that does mean I’m spending about $6.25/per square foot per month. Whoa! 😉

[@gabrieluribe1852]

I would have sold you my 98 ford E350 class c RV 23 ft for $10 K a lot cheaper and ready to go.

[@TravelingTroy]

Haha! Thanks. If I would have known. 😉 Thanks for watching. ✌️

[@russelldonithan2621]

You can do a build for less also a lot "vehicle repairs"are common problems in most vehicles most I wouldn't classify them as repairs examples brakes while brakes are repairs they are common in any vehicles there is a good chance the newer vehicle would've some of the same problems also you it should be understood why the astrovan is still a good options even if have to put money in one they don't make them anymore and they have all of the features (space,gas mileage,price)that you need plus easier convertible to 4wd

[@RVingwithG]

UP Front it does not look good and this is want broke people think about Lithium batteries... but in the long run it was IS a NO Brainer! ! $18 vs $65K NO THANKS

[@kamilk6956]

These are some really cheap numbers. I don't know where you are, but this is really cheap, almost too cheap.

[@goatfightshop3769]

Wasted money