Van Life 101: How to Choose a Van to Live In

[@KorumEmrys]

TIME TO MAKE A NEW VERSION OF THIS VIDEO IF YOU WOULD PLEASE, BOB!!! =) Thank You.

[@DeliberateNRandom]

Two problems I see that weren't explained: 1) Older vehicles may no longer have parts available. Stick to popular ones. I bought an Explorer for $190 for parts. I put a bunch onto the one I planned to keep. Only problem is, the other one needed too much work. But after swapping the stereo, wheels, tires, hood, spare tire mount, several other parts, I still sold it for $250 with a bad transmission. I only got $600 for the other, and I had $1,700 initial cost and almost another $1,000 in parts and labor. So if you aren't a good mechanic, make sure you take it to one. Don't buy on the weekend! Which brings me to my next point. 2) Make sure you get recommendations on a good, reliable mechanic! One that's thorough! If he's doesn't spot something, maybe you'll bring it to him for repairs. I've had issues here with them not finding anything or misdiagnosing an issue. I bought my '98 E-150 with 144k from work for $500. I made sure I maintained everything the past year. Our other truck we just got came from the same city, and it doesn't look like they've kept up on any repairs. I had grease and brake dust all over me after washing it. That fixed some issues and brought up new ones, and it has less miles. Being thorough is important! I had a guy trying to sell me a camper an hour and a half away. He was pushing the sale hard. I kept looking. It had floor rot by the toilet and issues around the vent fan. I backed out. He said if I lost weight, it wouldn't be a problem. Watch those true colors come shining through. Not everyone is your friend. Be thorough and don't let someone strong hand you into buying something you'll regret. I've had that happen too often.

[@mikrof467]

😴

[@rorywalks]

😂😂🎉​@@mikrof467

[@UBBERTANKER]

as a mechanic chevy express 03 and up and for econoline 97 and up are pretty much bulletproof and I have seen tons of comercial units in the 500-600k mile range with minimal repairs with regular maintinece. I would not go with the new style sprinter and transit vans as they are just not that proven yet

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

UBBERTANKER another thing too; how hard would it be to fix a van from the 80’s and 90’s yourself with no experience and just the repair manual? I know the 90’s got computerized so it’s more complex, but how about the early 90’s and the 80’s especially? Thanks!

[@surferbird]

Why would you say the transit Vans aren't proven yet they've been the best selling vans even over Mercedes in Europe for 10 years before they were even sold here in 2015. Europe was there testing ground and it did so well that they discontinued the Econoline and switched to only the transit here in America and Europe. From just reading the reviews on the internet the transit is beating all other Vans hands down

[@bixialee3826]

When you say 97 and up do you mean 97 and older or newer?

[@StumpyVanLife]

@@bixialee3826 Generally speaking up means newer. I am also a mechanic and a Ford guy, I would recommend Chevy or GMC Express. The newer the better. 02 or 03 they had 4.8 or 5.3 or 6.0 , those are great engines!! I love Ford's but hate working on them. They are a pain in the ass!!

[@GodWasAnAlien]

​@@StumpyVanLife agreed, sucks though that GM transmissions are kind of a change item. Sometimes you'll get 250k miles out of one if you have a great maintenance routine and drive it right, but as a general rule if you hit 180k on a 4L60E its near the end of its life. Still, I'd take a decent GM Vortec engine over a Ford 5.4L any day.

[@darrenolson1206]

I'm using the new word. Dramastically. Thanks, Bro.

[@jhodges48]

I'm thinking of buying a Astro Van w/116,000 miles What's your take on it. Thank you

[@CC-vw1cs]

I vote "Dramastically" to be included in Websters etc :)

[@SeriesOfTunnels]

💯

[@MapleBar777]

@@jhodges48 Did you buy it?

[@staffstaff3846]

♥️

[@junegraham5753]

Thank you Bob, this Canadian Nurse relies on your knowledge everyday. I watch all the minivan videos I can get in i a day when I am done working. I want to hit the road and retire after I finish my duty to Canada in this covid-19 world, at 66 still lucky in health to be working long hours. Always a fan of minivans as I am an avid camper through the years. Driving a little economical car right now as saving for that retirement purchase and living in a house. Can't wait to leave the bricks and mortar to see the natural world.

[@landbacklane-z5700]

thank u for your duty / service.

[@ketoauntie7301]

@@landbacklane-z5700 They have electric vans coming out soon for 2022

[@BlairBurnz]

Regardless of why cars changed, your knowledge and advice is priceless. Thank you!

[@datahound2u]

Wow, Bob! You are a genuine, walking and talking van-o-pedia! Thanks for that great advice!!

[@alenehochstetter1985]

I know this is an old video but probably still rings true. This is the very best and simple explanation of engines for anyone who knows nothing. I’m a girl who knows nothing about engines. When my mechanic talks to me it’s like a different language and I glaze over . But YOU just explained in a very simple way enough for me to understand some basic knowledge of engines. Thank you so much!

[@Mikeykaysuper]

I have had my 2008 GMC van with the 4.8 liter engine now 2 1/2 years and have been very happy with it .I was a equipment mechanic for 30 years and this van has been fairly easy to work on even some small emission related repairs no problem . Getting parts for these vehicles is also very easy and the prices are good because there are so many of these vehicles .

[@yootoobactnameyoo5221]

Best to buy fleet vehicles. That goes for personal and commercial vehicles. Fleet vehicles are regularly maintained. Can't guarantee that for non fleet vehicles. Also, fleet vehicles usually sell at a discount since the whole fleet tends to get swapped at the same time or in large chunks, unlike individual trade ins.

[@icanhearyoucanyouhearme9164]

I think I've watched this video 20 times in the last two years

[@bws4537]

Bob, love the channel but I don't believe the EPA is the reason cars went from 100k to 200k life expectancy. Improvements in automobile manufacturing (Japanese set a new precedence in the 70's) and lubrication abilities are the main reasons. Aside from that, thanks for all you do, bought myself an Express van this Fall and hope to meet you someday. Take care. - Blake

[@grantar2]

Blake, I would have to disagree with you. He is right. Japanese cars in 1970 were still perceived as low cost used car substitutes. Their reliability was not significantly higher until the mid 1970's and the U.S. manufactures had the capability but not the will to pull from their European stable. The advantage was Datsun, Toyota, Subaru, and Mitsubishi only had small cars, they were dirt cheap, my 1970 Corolla cost less than a 1966 dodge dart. The EPA forced the conversion to unleaded fuel, the catalytic converter, fuel economy guidelines. This changed the playing field. The Japanese vehicles having originated in local that imports 100% of it's oil, steel, and rubber was better prepared. The EPA fundamentally also changed U.S. drilling, and access to American reserves. The restrictions on air pollution from fuel oil and gas production, cracking and transportation. A way to look at the impact is to look at an aerial photo of any metropolitan area, and to take a trip down Route 66. Gas stations on each and every major intersection corner were common. A gas station ever 50 miles along remote stretches of highways were also common. Tunes ups were every 6,000 miles (Japanese overhead cam'd engines such as the 18RC used in the Celica and Corona MKII car line required valve adjustments every 6,000 miles or the exhaust valves would burn. American cars didn't need valve maintenance as most were push rod hydraulic valve actuated. Something the Japanese wouldn't do until they started building full size trucks. The issue is the EPA put out standards that drove the industry to develop new more efficient technologies. The same is happening today. That is why you see hybrid, hydrogen, and compressed natural gas cars all being released into the market. The gas and diesel technology is at risk of not meeting the regulatory requirements set forth first by the EPA, and then by California, and New York. Working in engineering for 30 years, having been a auto writer for local newspapers back in the 1980's I can confirm Bob's assertion on this.

[@5tevef]

grantar2 let's not bring up the concept of planned obsolescence that us mfgs liked to do.

[@lolouro2266]

cheeto is in office now... epa is getting gutted... ex oil man head of epa!! keystone pipeline cleared even though they just had a huge oil spill... dakota access pipeline cleared... slippery slope btw climate chaos is a hoax invented by china!

[@ImAChristianFirst]

You are correct which was created from 80/20 or Pareto Principal. I love the Pareto Principal. It was key to Juran's quality control program in Japan.

[@wazookazoo]

epa regulations caused much cleaner running engines, which causes engine to last much longer, no two ways about it. of course technology helped, but don't discount the benefit of environment regulations.

[@NewsNowHouston]

I m a Government Accountability Activist and travel a lot. Hotel expenses are killing me. So,I ll be going to a van (it’s also good cause you can be stealthy in it) soon. In doing research I found that the Chevy Vans are prone to fuel pump failure. So I ll be going with Ford. Also,if your on a budget (I am) look at Gov Surplus vans-I found several ‘01-07 Ford 3/4-1 ton vans with less than 30,k miles on them.

[@ellenbentley5033]

Where to find the surplus vans on the left coast, ugh, California.

[@jmcelhenie88]

What specific links have you found Government surplus vans between 01-07 w/ under 30k miles on?

[@NewsNowHouston]

Google surplus vehicles. Several sites come up. There are also some listed on eBay.

[@mattshaggy5046]

Ford's have bad front ends

[@dtm7909]

I have had the spark plug blow out of my ford engine, cost with tow was over $1000.00 . I think i will risk a simple fuel pump failure.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Inherited my Dad's '86 F150. Still driving it. Zero problems!

[@Oceanbreeze-m7e]

If Iam correct, F150s are the best Trucks ever made!

[@StumpyVanLife]

@@Oceanbreeze-m7e F150's were fantastic until 1996 , in 1997 they started a downward spiral. The 300 inline 6 and 302 V8 engines were practically bomb proof! Twin I beam suspension rode like a tank, but were very durable but a pain in the ass to rebuild or align. 1997 brought the 4.2 V6 with several design flaws. 4.6 V8 engines were pretty reliable just a dog on power tho. They woke up the 4.6 a little around 2000 with PI cylinder heads, and the 5.4 engines like to spit out spark plugs!!

[@kmlgraph]

Also, Ford Rangers. I have owned 2 Rangers 2006 and 2009 with 4L-V6. They last forever.

[@matt4270]

Nissan NV2500 is a great van as well, with the 5.6 V8. The 2017 has a new version of it with a 7 speed trans, so it should get good mileage. They also have a 5 year/100,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty that's hard to beat. Also, on all vans, don't forget to change the transmission and differential fluid every 40,000 miles or so, not just the engine oil.

[@garyballard3484]

matt4270 , thanks for that man I've got a Nissan 1500 that I love. I've been using it for work but thinking of retiring and converting it. You gave me some inspiration it only has 32000 miles on it.

[@tristanstravels7913]

Great info. I am selling my home and getting a van. This is knowledge I will use. Thank you

[@jonthebru]

This will be great to watch. I agree with the knowledge we will gain.

[@cindymccullars3278]

I will also be selling my home and all my belonging to be free .Requirement for me is around the corner about 3 to years .im so ready to d o again. I did it 30 years ago. Then decided to Sello down And raise my son .now its time for me to be free .

[@williambranham6249]

I don't think I would drink all the KOOL AID like a shot of liquor. Sip it, and see how you like it first. You might decide to go back to the home after a bit. Then what you gonna do? Lots of money usually lost in those transactions.

[@TheBudgetMarine]

Not sure if u still use this account but how’s it going? I plan on doing the same come this November !

[@Salim_shahidy]

I only want a old school van so me and the boys could hang out in it and go everywhere we can go

[@tripperdonnie]

I agree the straight 6 Ford is an incredibly reliable and torquey engine. As others have noted, the Dodge 318 is one of the most reliable engines made. I had 69 class A motor home with a 318, it got 12 mpg and took me everywhere, the engine was ultra reliable except for vapor lock occasionally.

[@AlexRodriguez-gw8xt]

Never had a problem with my triton v8 just got to make sure your motor wasn't built on a Friday! Lol

[@jennhill8708]

Or on a Monday.... Hangover city.

[@StumpyVanLife]

@Dirk Diggler I am a Ford guy, I am also a mechanic for over 20 years. Yes Ford 4.6 , 5.4 , and V10 engines have some weak areas. More so than Chevy LS based engines. I think it is a little unfair to say "massive repair problems". Spark plugs do blow out, change them every 50K miles to prevent this. Remove old ones very carefully, there is a special procedure for this its easy to look it up. 3v engines have some issues with the cam phasers - easy fix. They make a kit to lock the cam timing in place, boom... problem solved. But yes, Chevy engines are the bomb!! I have to give it to Chevy on this. They kept it simple, still a pushrod engine so no over complicated timing chain setup. Spark plugs still go in the side of the cylinder head and stay there. So in a nutshell this Ford guy concedes and gives a thumbs up to Chevy!! Damn.... what just happened???

[@atx-cvpi_99]

@Dirk Diggler All the 3 valve engines made prior to 2014 are junk.

[@NPAMike]

I had a 5.4 v8 as long you took care of the spark plugs it was fine the problem was getting to them. Normally i would do it myself but the location of these plugs requires multiple extensions so i had to pay ford tech to do it and it was always more than 400+ but then i always did the coils at the same time to avoid having to go into it twice.

[@sgetty5443]

@@StumpyVanLife Thank you, had 2000 Triton 5.4 liter was trouble free until 179,000 miles. Reliable as my Toyota Sienna, no problems with spark plugs. Looking for another used van to replace it now, what would you say about some of the newer years models. Not interested in transit only E150 or E250. Any cautions?

[@congerscott6064]

When the time comes im getting the newest van i can afford, i have no desire to work on a vehicle other than wind shield washer fluid refill or changing a tire 👍.

[@thatdudesohyper]

I've been following you for some time....and I must say, I have an 2008 Ford E-150 with the 4.6 triton V8. Now the 4.6 is the same motor used in cop cars, taxis, shuttle vans, jail/prison transport van, etc. The 4.6 is legendary when speaking of reliability. Next time you see a taxi that looks like an old patrol car, just remember it's most likely the 4.6 in there.

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

First Name Last Name is that a 302 or a 300 in-line six?

[@frenchfryfarmer436]

Bob is NOT a mechanic..lol. well meaning, but somewhat miss informed. You are correct 4.6/5.4/6.8(v10) are ROCK solid. Thats ok, more used fords for the rest of us (cheaper)!

[@frenchfryfarmer436]

@Ricoville my fleet ambualnce guys ran 100s of E Series thru their shop over the run ...I have no less than 7 of them here (some for parts, IF I ever need them) . There is a few more that didn't come from them, old Quigley, and an old IDI diesel. We know our vans! Bob made a good choice with his Chevy....but folks need to know he's bringing a bias.

[@kevinstonerock3158]

It’s actually two separate engines. The 300 is the in-line six and the 302 is the V-8 that is used in the mustang and Bronco, possibly other models as well. Both are good engines though the six will struggle for power under certain circumstances in spite of being reliable otherwise. The 4.6 is available in vans as well as crown Vic’s, and grand Marquis as part of the panther platform. With the cars empty and not doing city driving I can reliably get 400 miles per fillup. While loading it down preparing for a trip west I was pleasantly surprised to still get the same mileage per tank. Scratching my head at how but still the case.

[@deuswulf6193]

Class B can often be the smartest choice, not only can the often be found dirt cheap but for some reason insurance is much cheaper for anything classified as a RV. Parts are not so bad because they are still just regular vans with added stuff built on top of them. You could even strip most of the added parts out of it (propane tank, grey and black water tanks..ect), and make it a run of the mill van, while still getting the benefit of the "rv" tag for cheaper insurance. Could make a fun project if one really wants to convert a RV van into something else entirely. Beyond that, those older conversion vans are pretty awesome too, just cover up the windows if you need to build around it.

[@jackiem1093]

Thank you for this!!! I'm in research phase. I hope to be getting my first van and beginning the build out in April 😁

[@MUSIC-JoyceHansonAnderson-d4m]

I had NO IDEA about all this information you just shared! I'm in shock. And I'll save this post of yours to re-watch over and over again and take notes too because I can only afford an older van to convert into a camper van. A million thank you's Brother!

[@Lmachine1]

Your channel is my new favorite! You are so knowledgable and great at communicating through video. I love learning the things that you share, keep em' coming!

[@Kristian_Saile]

I prefer the way the long wheelbase Expresses drive and the 6.0 is awesome. I find the Ford’s tend to have really vague/imprecise steering and wander more on the highway and get moved around more in crosswinds. The 15 passenger e series just stretch the body and retain the wheelbase so they aren’t as stable as the Chevy that extends the wheelbase. That said, I run a 2001 Sportsmobile E350 7.3 Powerstroke and 4wd conversion. It’s a pop top and is an absolute tank. I don’t care for the Ford gas engines but the 7.3 is quite literally a million mile engine. That is the ultimate van for me though I find myself really wanting a 2.8 Duramax Express for family road trips and daily driving.

[@sjm98126]

275k on my 96 ford e250 5.8 and still going like brand new. I'll rebuild the engine before i buy a newer van.

[@Floof_Factory]

Did you have to replace the transmission?

[@zachcarver1618]

@@Floof_Factory obviously not bro, he just said he will rebuild the engine before buying a new van

[@fudgepuppy9683]

I can tell youve never seen salt lol

[@sjm98126]

@@fudgepuppy9683 I live in new england actually

[@richardmcgrath61]

Bob, I can recommend the old 350 Chevy engines. I have a Vortec 5.7 in a '96 Chevy C1500. Love that engine and the sound it makes! Most of the problems I've had with the engine are minor and related to battery/alternator/starter motor. A solar-powered trickle-feed recharger is the way to go to keep the battery fully charged. And a switch to disconnect the battery from the rest of the vehicle when it's parked up. That way you don't get interior lights (such as the one in the glovebox, which happened in a GMC I used to own) draining the battery. The OBS Chevs are very cheap to maintain, and that's even in New Zealand where I live.

[@oldgunnersmate2100]

In my last job, I drove around the country in a work van, a ford 350 van, I got it brand new, company van. Some of the guys had a van like yours. Here is the difference that I noticed. The Ford rode great as did the GMC. Empty, the Ford was not very noisy and seemed a little more heavy duty. The GMC empty sounded like a empty beer can, and was lighter. Here is the big deal, the GMC had a tighter turn than the Ford, so the other guys could get in the tighter spots.

[@sharongypsydove8396]

Old Gunners Mate the Ford wheelbase is shorter than the Chevy so if you put 3500 pounds on it even if it was centered the front end would be choppy going down the road... you put 3500 pounds on a Chevy and Center it with the longer wheelbase it rides like a Cadillac... and these were both extended versions Ford also has worst gas mileage unless it's a diesel and then both of Chevy and Ford diesel pretty much the same... how do I know this because I ran both Fords and Chevys expediting and I could get 17 sometimes 18 miles a gallon out of my Chevy but I couldn't get anything about 12 out of that Ford and they were both the same year less than 2 years old

[@thomasbrown6156]

I agree with most of what you said.And another reason cars last longer today is the overdrive trans., which help reduce rpms.I have had all kinds of pick-ups.And the Chevys with 5.3 and 4.8 were great. The 4.8 got much better mpg. I think you get great service out of your new van.

[@vincewarde5852]

I have been working on my own vehicles since the 1960s, and I have to differ with you about old cars being easier to work on. I have never had a computer failure and when I have problems I simply plug in my OBD 2 code reader and it tells me what is wrong.with the vehicle. Additionally, I would rather deal with fuel injection than a carburetor. It's much more reliable and replacing injectors is much easier than dealing with carbs.

[@williambranham6249]

I love the knowledge that experience brings. Thanks

[@williamgraf2119]

I am enjoying you site and appreciate your observations. I have had very good experience with the 4.3 liter Chevy, both in their pickups and their van. I purchased a new 4.3 liter van in 2009 in a cash for clunkers exchange. This is a V6, has good power and gets close to 20 mpg on the freeway. Reliability on all the vehicles has been excellent. I sold my 2004 pickup to a friend and it has performed flawlessly for 140,000 miles.

[@Operation3Sixty]

It's important to note that Ford vans no longer have the spark plug issue after 2008!

[@tonydriver6862]

Another consideration is the suspension and steering linkage. These vans are heavy. They sit on this earth 24x7x365...and all the weight on the suspension. Not to mention bushings and whatnot. Newer vans have newer undercarriages. It's the most underrated section of a vehicle. I do believe Chevys and GMC's make bulletproof V8s and very good transmissions. We own a 2003 GMC Yukon with the 5.3L and it has 220k miles on it. Never a problem. No oil burn...no oil leaks!

[@terisamcveigh5034]

Thanks Bob! This was packed with useful information about van buying ..and boy.. I do remember the 70's pollution here in California! It's great to know there are full sized vans that are cleaner running and get good gas mileage!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks for watching Terisa!

[@pj9731]

Wow! Lots of comments! I bought my 99 F250 V10 about 15 years ago and it did blow out a spark plug, #2, @ 150k miles a few years back. I purchased a Time Sert repair kit (around $450) and did the repair myself. It's been good ever since. Another huge problem with the Ford Triton engines is the intake manifold leaking antifreeze and filling up some of the spark plug wells causing the engine to stumble & miss. There won't be a engine code present for this condition. I have to swab a few spark plug wells from time to time. I cannot afford to replace my truck so I learned how to deal with those "Better Ideas" from Ford. Other than that, it's a good truck with 162k miles on it. Thank God I don't have the Ford 6.0 diesel! 😬🇺🇸

[@CheapRVliving]

That's the maddening thing, otherwise, the 5.4 and V10 are great engines, they just did this one really stupid thing. But, worse of all is they did nothing to fix it, they just screwed their customers.

[@brittpetersen143]

Thanks Bob! This video answered a lot of questions I've had while I save up for my first cargo van!

[@catrashoo]

Same here , I own a 99 Chevy Express with 177K miles on it.

[@ahighervibe4086]

I bought a 2002 Astro in Feb'21 in horrible shape and proceeded to totally rebuild it... everything except the engine. Then In June I left for Denver, where I have worked while boondocking and camping...until...the engine let go 3 weeks ago in October. In one fell swoop I lost my home and my transportation! I immediately bought a used engine to repair the Astro. But Because it's a NY van, the front end was Rusty...so much so that an engine swap can't be completed. Sooo...I bought a 1995 Hi Top Chevy Shorty conversion Van with a blown motor but with a really nice Camper Interior and am now currentlyi jnv in a motel waiting for the shop to put the engine in my new G20. It's been one hell of a ride...and NOT one for the weak of heart, mind, or body! I pray my "new" van runs well for the foreseeable future 🙏

[@donstrickland8481]

Bob,I respectfully disagree with you. My son had about 100 Amish carpenters work for him.He had about 8-10 Ford E350 7.3 liter diesel power stroke engine by International Harvester.These vans were the same frame as a dump truck.Ford used this engine until 2003.This engine was bullet proof.All of them had 350,000+ miles on them some even 5-600,000.Only one ever had an engine repair.Then in 2004,Ford made their own diesel.Everyone he ever bought (6-8)SOON developed engine problems $1500+ per breakdown. The 7.3L is still a sought after engine. 20-21 mpg.

[@carlscottamos6501]

They stopped making the 7.3 diesel in 2003. It was replaced by the 6.0L because of its inability to meet newer emission requirements required by the Nazis, I mean the EPA.

[@allincamo]

FORD diesel.....lol...lol... Unless they are the old 7.3, they are pure shit buckets. Cummins makes the best diesel, then again crappy trans unless you get 3500 series,Asin trans. Ford has a great 5.0 today. not sure of the 6.2 gas engine.

[@barryschouster3604]

The Ford Transit now has the i5 biodiesel engine, ive heard good things about it

[@fbnflaviusbroadcastingnetw6786]

Don Strickland Would it matter if it was 1998 with already 282,960 miles on it???

[@jolanni7]

I had one in a 1988 f350 utility body. It got 12 mpg loaded and pulling a 6000 pound trailer and it got 12 mpg without the trailer and empty. Transmission was a little weird, an automatic 3 speed that shifted when it wanted to but never let me down. Bought that truck new. It ate brakes and the front ends were junk but easy to fix. Never touched the engine but got a lot of water from the separator, easy to drain about once every few weeks. Fuel additive helped too. Of course did the very minor tasks of oil and filters. Good truck.

[@mcdowell356]

Thanks Bob . Very good advice . I,m still driving my Jeep Cherokee . 362,000 kms 4 litre inline 6 was a great engine too

[@CheapRVliving]

Nice!

[@JickJackJake]

It's not a crap shoot about the 99+ spark plug issue. It's does happen, but such a rare occurrence (high production makes the numbers seem large). Biggest pet peeve about vehicle discussions that start with "soneone I know" At your age you should know not to use that phrase for anything. Definately right about if there is less to work on there is less to fail. In my experience & knowledge all in-line sixes are extremely reliable. Going back to how they were simply designed. less to go wrong.

[@ThumperJunkie]

Having worked in the car industry I can say I have seen about I think 2 cases of spark plug failure. 1 was as he described and it happened to be on a van (which was poorly maintained and run into the ground) the other was another case of neglect and that person stripped the threads themselves. Everyone who has had the Triton engines has had very good luck with reliability that I've seen. Yes they have their faults, some aren't great on fuel...Overall though it's a great engine as well when MAINTAINED.

[@peterlamont647]

Someone I once knew said that lizards ran the government in the whole world(true story, I don't talk to them anymore)! Therefore, it must be true. Job done. *canned laughter*

[@phycon55]

Had a 97 F150 and a 2004 Crown Vic both lose spark plugs. Fun times! Did both repairs myself, down for about 2 days and back on the road.

[@compose-yourlife1]

Thank you Bob for this very informative video. I just bought a 2006 Ford E-250 (87,000 miles) and as a matter of fact the spark plugs needs to be changed! I should of waited for your video ,')

[@0utrider]

Car companies do not build to last a lifetime, they want to sell new vehicles so in the 60's and 70's they were made to last about 100,000, after the Japanese got into the market with cars that would last up to 200,000 miles the American companies had to increase their longevity to compete.

[@djpotts2554]

Great advice from "The Wise Van Pioneer". You've answered many viewers questions. Keep up your superb videos!

[@popclutchco.7208]

2020 still a great review👏

[@joaquimrodriguez8961]

Now, 2021.

[@vndustman]

Bob is spot on !! About which Ford and chevy motors are best!

[@lacha608]

My van was broken into and destroyed. Now looking back to this video for advice once again. Thanks Bob. Finding today that there are not many vehicles available, and those that are are being sold for several times the price of the Kelly Blue Book estimate...So, an astronomically higher cost and an astronomically higher financial risk if the vehicle is to fail...

[@kevinstonerock3158]

My biggest problem is finding places where people are willing to sell at an affordable price. Provided the weather isn’t extreme I’d be able to do a lot of repairs myself as long as I have the tools available. The smaller the vehicle the less likely I could self repair. I’d hoped I could get a motor home for around $1,200 but I got no response back. Since many are low mileage for the age I’d love to find one like that. I’d have room for more extensive tool variety with space left over. Some systems aren’t critical but sewer would seem to be more important in order to extend trips without getting sick or cited. Any suggestions on this? I’ll keep reviewing your videos but I’d hoped to begin traveling west no later than early May if not sooner.

[@mad555max]

Ford redisigned the aluminum head to adress the issue that happened with some customers, after 2002 the heads have double the thread and there arent any blowout issues anymore, this issue happened mostly on the 5.4 liter triton engines and was usage dependent, a 99 - 2002 e series with a 5.4 liter that spent most of it's life being used in construction and hauling etc may not be your best choice unless it has the later 8 thread heads (yes the heads are interchangable, so upgrading is possible if you wish to do so.) a lightly used one should be fine or just go with a more recent one econoline or a even newer transit. Facts are important Bob, no manufacturer will keep selling vehicles with questionable engine heads for nearly 2 decades. also the 4.6 liter vans barely had the issue, only the really heavily used and abused ones did, but even they received the updated heads. it is recommended to correctly replace the sparkplugs the way recommended by ford instead of ramming them in and tightening as much as possible, something plenty of home mechanics and even a lot of professional mechanics have done.

[@THEGrammaChronicles]

We bought a new 2017 GMC Extended Savanah last year (with an inverter in it) for my husbands flooring contractor business (so it's tax deductable) with the plan of tricking it out in 7 years when he retires. The only problem is.... I am having a hard time waiting!!!!!

[@311hitwall]

Have you had any issues with the GMC?

[@orianaspiderowl769]

Dramastically = Drastically and dramatically. I love it! You're a linguist.

[@nomaticvanduraartz1720]

I am a mechanic and I hunted down this 91 GMC Vandura. it was owned by a School District in California as their maintenance van. I paid $1,000 for it I got the service records from when it was new. it's got a hundred and thirty-three thousand miles on it. in the last 10,000 miles I just had a brand new transmission put in, new radiator, new heater core, front brakes, rotors, and tires. She is ready to roll. I hunted this van down because OBD1 throttle body to me are one of the easiest to work on and maintain there's only 3 sensors. I can fix it on the side of the road and I can get parts at the 7-Eleven.

[@simms196]

2000 Chevy express van 173,000 miles still going strong. Lived in this van 6 months now, only work done oil change

[@oldgunnersmate2100]

Yeah, I blew a plug too. I'm going down the freeway in Ft. Worth and it felt like the engine was a bucking bronco, damn rough!!

[@Dgantea]

My new word: Dramasticly. I love it.

[@Lou.B]

GREAT STUFF, BOB! I was taking notes the whole way! Thanks for your priceless help to us newbies!

[@HolySpiritWantsYou]

I have a 96 f150 with a 302 and over 400,000 .. Still runs good .. Just doesn't have the power to tow anymore .. Been looking for another truck .. Thinking of the Toyota .. But we'll see That's for the information Bob .. Keep this videos coming 😍😍😍

[@sidequestsally]

Been watching all the millenial recommendations on vans, they have their uses, good info on converting/buildouts but thin on the info you've provided here. Just the kind of nittty gritty a novice like me needs. Sure don't want my first purchase to be a disaster, this vid should help. Thanks!

[@nancynightingale6267]

Great video and information. It was very interesting to hear the history of vans. I remember the 1970's....gas rationing, long lines at the gas pumps, cars would run outta gas waiting in line. It was a MESS. I lived on Long Island at the time, NY. Thanx, again, Bob !

[@UncleBuckle50]

People sure get passionate about their vans & engines...ha! Thanks for your opinion Bob

[@CheapRVliving]

We sure do! :D

[@williambranham6249]

Yes until they break.

[@MrKalon52]

Thanks for sharing. I agree the 5.3 Chevy is one of the better ones made today.

[@nomadpi1]

Preachy and yeah, we recognize you're a fan of the EPA. All these "improvements have raised the prices of vehicles to a point where my Focus cost more than the house my parents bought in 1947 so I would have a home close to the school I walked to. Give me a 1953-56 Chevy, Ford, or Plymouth any day.

[@terrimajor6130]

I appreciate you’re knowledge. I’m interested in starting part time van life. Just don’t want to jump in head first. I plan on purchasing a van sometime in 2021 to start my weekend journey Van Life!

[@1WillyK]

As a professional driver who has extensive experience driving both Ford and Chevy vans I would strongly disagree with buying Chevy's. The engines lack power and throttle response and overall GM's are maintenance nightmares. I worked for a company for almost nine years that had both companies vans in their fleet and it was obvious which were the superior vehicles. The Fords drove better, had better power, cruised the highways better and the ergonomics were vastly better. Plus, the overall build quality is better. The mechanics hated the Chevy's and they're the vans that were always in the shop for a multitude of reasons. After that experience I won't even consider any GM vehicle. Lastly, if you want to know who makes the better vehicles overall, whether it's cars, trucks, vans or whatever else, just look at the vast majority of fleet vehicles out there. 95% or more are Fords.

[@thegeth4293]

Im sorry, ford might make good vans, but all ford models are not reliable vechicles, any car or suv, i would only buy a toyota

[@mattc9875]

GM vehicles are normally pretty easy to work on, especially those with these vortec engines, plenty of space in the engine bay. Nothing to say against Ford and I did feel some difference in throttle response too. However, lincoln vehicles (Ford stuff) with the 5.3 engines are not that reliable, see the Navigator...

[@mattc9875]

​@@thegeth4293crown Victorias are Ford and are well known ti last 300k to 500k miles. Corollas last long as well but not that long. Toyota has a strong reputation for reliability, but it's not the only one out there. Definitely a good brand for those who are not mechanically inclined and want nothing to do with repairs. Ford and GM are great if you do want to do you own maintenance. Cheap & easily available domestic parts. Design-wise, however, Japanese cars in generally don't stand a chance and lack personality and appeal, but I understand that their market is with buyers who only want to go from point A to B, which is normal.

[@theacmemovement9677]

So, I'm a retired carpenter in northern Michigan. I have thought about trying to help people remodel there vans/ cargo trailers and r.v's on the cheap. I have a place to camp for a week or so maybe two, and work on them. There are endless places for people to camp around here. Maybe have time to do a small uncomplicated one this year yet? Maybe start setting stuff up for next summer...

[@haroldcale4767]

as for me I just want to travel as cheap as I can. lol. thanks Bob

[@nettiewatkins6545]

Extremely helpful. Thank you. I am getting ready to buy my first van and would not have even known to ask about the engine at all. I have a lot to learn. I'm getting it from you

[@danielshaw9465]

Dramastically! My new favourite word :)

[@thomasc7119]

I have a 2006 Chevy express 3500 6.0, and a 2008 Ford E250 5.4. The Chevy express is just a smooth ride, I can drive it all day!

[@AnarchicImage]

Great video! Love how excited you got that you averaged 17mpg. In the U.K. And Europe we'd consider that terrible performance for a van. My 2006 VW LT35 averages 30mpg and most will do that if not more. The US vehicle manufacturers still have a very long way to go to catch up with the Europeans!

[@CheapRVliving]

If it's diesel, it's killing people and in this country we decided not to do that.

[@AnarchicImage]

Bob, c'mon my friend I get you're a patriot but don't take a moral stance on this on behalf of your whole country. It's unbecoming of a free thinking gentleman such as yourself when you and I both know that America is the second biggest polluter on the planet after China!!! That aside, let's go back to basics. Any fossil fuel is bad for the environment and people when burned. However, we are some way off getting cheap long range EV's that we can live in. (Hopefully not too far off though). And since your channel is called 'cheap' RV living, then a 2.5 litre diesel is going to be a hell of a lot cheaper than a 4.8 litre V8 petrol. For a lot of people watching this channel who are really short on funds, the difference between 17mpg and 30mpg might be the difference between this lifestyle being feasible or not.

[@qh5163]

CheapRVliving The us-american drones and oil wars are responsible for killing people. About 20-30 million people since 1945. Maybe you have just something mistaken.

[@startrekstardate6264]

CheapRVliving how is diesel killing people?

[@startrekstardate6264]

Your comparing v8 engines to small 4cylinders and let's be honest Europeans aren't driving small fuel efficient cars because they care about the environment,they are doing so because gas prices in Europe cost much more than in USA.

[@lauraedwards7445]

From my own experience older vans can be a problem if something goes wrong and you cannot get the part easily. I had an 18 year old van which had to be scrapped because a part underneath was unobtainable. The 10 year old van I have now had a broken fuel filter holder (which had probably been the original and a tiny plastic hook on it perished when the filter was changed) and this took a whole week to source from Germany to the UK. I do weekend camping in them but if I'd been living in either of them, I would have been pretty well homeless with 3 dogs for a week at least - not a particularly attractive prospect unexpectedly.

[@DelightLovesMovies]

I love that. Thanks so much for the info CheapRVliving

[@hicksvillemtb]

The spark plug problem was resolved sometime in the mid 2000’s. The 2006 e350 I had never had a problem. Other than the spark plug problem the triton engines are near indestructible. The chevy LS motors 5.3, 6.0 are also very reliable.

[@CC-vw1cs]

very helpful video Bob - I feel armed with some knowledge of where to start and what to look for - thanks :)

[@supersami7748]

R. Reed. I love your videos been watching for a couple of months. Just a FYI, I'm a GM fan but because of having a shop I've seen all the domestic and a lot of the foreign vehicles. The Triton V8 and V10 both 2 and 3 valve versions had their head problems solved back in 2005-2006 era. I like you would still go GM because of the trans and what I think is a much better rise and handling. Look forward to your next update, much better than regular TV!

[@norfolkgarden]

Thanks for another great video Bob. As for people complaining about the EPA, apparently they have no idea that Los Angeles in the 70's during an "inversion" (weather phenomena) looked like Beijing, China does now because of auto pollution from leaded gas. It is very difficult to explain to people that they have been benefiting from over 40 years of improvements in the air we breath and the water we drink, thanks to the EPA, because "things were always this clean and you just want to cause problems for industry". For the nay sayers, please google the Cuyahoga river. It is another poster child for the original Earth Day. (Hint, rivers are not supposed to catch fire repeatedly every summer.) www.google.com/search?q=cuyahoga+river+fire&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8 Richard Nixon was never confused with being a tree hugger, but the devastating Santa Barbra oil spill in his native California helped him sign the legislation after his arm was being twisted to the point of breaking. www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-santa-barbara-oil-spill-1969-20150520-htmlstory.html And THANK YOU Ralph Nader www.google.com/search?q=ralph+nader+unsafe+at+any+speed&oq=ralph+nader+unsafe&gs_l=serp.1.0.0l2j0i22i30k1l2.6472.7994.0.10427.7.6.0.1.1.0.186.794.0j5.5.0....0...1c.1.64.serp..1.6.798...0i10k1.X1Ps_-y5f8s In closing, remember kids, Just because Mom and Dad won't let you snort coke, drop acid and join a motorcycle gang, doesn't mean they are boring. It means they are smart.

[@norfolkgarden]

Sorry, forgot about Rachel Carson and Silent Spring. www.google.com/search?q=silent+spring+rachel+carson&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8

[@CheapRVliving]

I agree 100%!! If it weren't for the EPA, this country would look exactly like China does now with millions dying from air and water pollution! Because of that, China woke up and is now a world leader in going green and caring for the environment. Sadly, if we abdicate that role, they will step in and take our place and we will become a lower class country.

[@KarasekUS]

+CheapRVliving Pretty soon you'll start preaching that thanks to the benevolent government the sun rises and sets and there are 4 seasons in a year. You sound like the first secretary of the communist party of Poland during their last congress before dissolution in 1990, when he enumerated the party's achievements. One of them was rebuilding of the country from war devastation... Because of course all capitalist countries remain not-rebuilt untill present day, right?

[@AnnaC63]

norfolkgarden Amen to everything you just wrote !

[@lynnjacob444]

@@CheapRVliving, people have become complacent, because the don't remember how bad things were. If we let go of all the regulations (this is greed speak for 'let us do whatever the heck we want, with impunity'), our country will return to that mess, and worse, as we have more than double the population that we did in 1970.

[@mastersmoosh9496]

A fellow was telling me he bought a brand new 2015 pickup. Then in 2019 his lights quit working. He took it back to dealer. Told that part no longer covered under warranty. Apparently lights are run thru computer. Cost him $1300 to get his lights working. In the pre high tech days fixing lights was a fuse or bulb but now they are over complicating vehicles. He did not say what brand the pickup was. High tech = big bucks, even when it should be simple. Something to consider.

[@atx-cvpi_99]

I think it might be a Dodge Ram.

[@timothythomas1626]

The Ford that blows the Plug you then have to have the Inside checked for metal savings. There are tools for this now. So your whole motor doesn't have top be torn down.

[@frenchfryfarmer436]

They increased the thread count after 2004 FYI much less common an occurrence

[@66TKL]

Thank you for what you do for sooooo many. Your website has become my go-to-resource for information. I'm gaining so much knowledge and am planning my great escape for fall 2017. I look forward to attending your next rtr and hope to shake your hand this year.

[@jjrite780]

Hey Bob, Anymore anyone can be a mechanic with KZbin and Google!! I have a Class C Ford E350 and a Jeep Liberty, and have saved so much money!! How did we ever get along before! Thanks for your knowledge. I will keep it in mind when I need to upgrade!

[@Ebacherville]

yes and the ODB scanners now are dirth cheap.. heck you can go to autozone and they will do a diagnose for you for free and loan you specialty tools... learn to be a DIYer..

[@CheapRVliving]

I respect people who are able to work on their cars, I'm just not one of them.

[@clubmike2910]

Real good video Bob, I used to have a 1964 ford econoline van, I miss that old van. Lots of fun in that thing.

[@TeddyRumble]

Me, too. '63 Ford Econoline. Never failed me, but zero power in the mountains.

[@myrongibson6314]

I am 37 and want to live on the road but have a full time job. I was wanting to know if I could make money doing auto repair for other van dwellers and RVs?

[@joinjen3854]

Go to all the RV and van gathering areas, especially southern Arizona. I bet you would get regular work... bring your tools and business cards and try to get some deals right at the RTR that Bob Wells on this channel has at least once a year. there is a growing market and if you mobile and willing to go to the van then you have a great opportunity to get business both repair and maintenance. Add some conversion skills and you will be booked up as long as you want.

[@SilverCabin]

I love how that dog just ran across all casual like that. It's Dec 2020 and I'm watching this. Great advice. I've been researching and this video confirms a lot of what I was discovering.

[@destinal_in_reality]

Seriously, you think the EPA is what made cars more reliable, and not the market and technological advancement? (I don't mean to be this argumentative, I love your videos, but this left me gobsmacked)

[@AnnaC63]

Eric Duprey The EPA is what made all those technological advancements possible by making them necessary and tax money helping fund the research.

[@peterlamont647]

These people really are crazy. Holy crap! Limiting options made innovation everyone!? By that logic, we should ban nearly everything! I think I just hit on the radical left jugular. That place where they get all their crazy ideas. If we ban oil pipelines, people will figure out how to teleport oil! If we ban breathing, people won't need that oppressive oxygen anymore. LOLOLOLOL

[@theoldfarmerswife5915]

Thanks Bob, we recently purchased an 83 Chevy, basically so my husband can work on it. If I could one older in as good of shape as our 83, I'd much rather buy it. Ppl make fun our our "Eddie", but I love him. Why do we call him Eddie? From that line in the movie, National Lampoons Christmas Vacation. "That there is an Are-Vee Clark". We named him after cousin Eddie ❤️❤️

[@dingdong2447]

I have owned both and the Fords held up much better than the chevy. Chevy has a good engine but the rest of the parts are junk

[@jimcameron9848]

Looking at a number of late 90s and early 00s Dodge conversion vans. Will research them first. Appears to have a 5.9L. Interesting video. My employer uses the Chevy Express 3500 6.0L v8 extended passenger van. I am in AZ so the 2006 model's window panels - long as an ironing board - rattle and shimmy on tight bumpy turns, and the plastic interior components are pretty worn out. The engine, however, is an absolute beast! It actually wants to go faster on its own and its on the 3/4 ton chassis so you sit above the sea of pick ups. I like your insulation panel work because it should also reduce the internal generation of noise that the passenger vans can suffer from.

[@cocacolafiesta]

Yay! Bought a 1998 Ford Van just under your 1999 No-Ford warning! Great history lesson!

[@bobbyharper8710]

The Ford Triton spark plug problem was fixed in 2003. The only way manufacturers can keep up with EPA gas mileage mandates is risky innovation so ya never know what's going to happen..

[@CheapRVliving]

Bobby, they "fixed" it in 2004, but they created a new problem where the plug would break in half inside the head while trying to take it out. That went on until 2008 when they finally solved the whole mess. During none of those years should you change your own plugs or take it anywhere but to a Ford dealer. They know how to do it right and even fix it. www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2014/04/ford-triton-v8-engine-spark-plug-tsb/index.htm

[@bobbyharper8710]

People on repair guides say the 4.6L Ford engine has plenty of power, better gas mileage and no spark plug problems although consumer guide includes the 4.6L. Most public and large commercial vehicle users would only buy Fords which is the best selling truck in America so I'm a bit wary of buying a Chevy.

[@williambranham6249]

When someone talks about better gas mileage when comparing engines it seems that the range might be 2 or 3 MPG difference. At 2.50 per gallon that doesn't seem worth talking or bragging about.

[@donnamount151]

I am a woman in her 70's, I have a 2004 gmc 6.0 L...I "LOVE it" ❤ ❤ I have had her since she was a baby, Walmart oil chances an service ( I can service her myself.. I give her a tuneup myself. .easy peezy, youtube show's u EVERYTHING u need to see to do it...urself...get a " fixit" to plug into ur computer by drivers door for ur censors...AND I get 19 mpg...🥰🥰🥰

[@carlscottamos6501]

Bob, with all due respect; the EPA was a great idea. Like every other Government agency, they have become a monster. The average fuel economy (CAFE standards) is regulated by congress, not the EPA. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corporate_Average_Fuel_Economy The EPA had nothing to do with improving the reliability and longevity of American automobiles. It was the competition with the reliable Japanese cars. (aka the free market) When Detroit started losing market share, they had to up their game. The same thing is happening with Harley-Davidson. They have had to improve their antiqued high maintenance engine design, to a more modern reliable motorcycle because of Polaris/Indian/Victory.

[@CheapRVliving]

You make several good points, but overall I see them as the very best thing this country ever did. Left unchecked the Corproations would gladly kill Americans with pollution by the millions--they have to be controlled.

[@williambranham6249]

Why would they want to do that. Corporations are people who have families and have to breathe the same air. I don't see a lot of corporate types wearing filters or living and working in sealed buildings. It seems fuel is the issue, not the car.

[@andyjarman4958]

We bought a 1999 Camry Station Wagon. No computer, made in Japan in small numbers. The thing just refuses to die.

[@billdperry]

No Dodge? 318 comes to mind as one of the great engines....have you ever owned a Dodge anything?

[@LaughingblueSu]

Hey Old Fart- I love the look of Dodge Vans, wider, good engine reputation. BUT, huge rust issue. I have read of engines falling out on the freeway. Some speculate Dodge uses a lower quality metal. After hearing all this, I have crossed Dodge off my list, along with the Sprinter (for high repair cost). a plus for Ford? You could upgrade to a limited slip differential. Wouldn't that be cool.

[@allincamo]

Dodge trans are SH!T.....and still to this date.

[@travelingwithrick]

Had a 73 Plymouth satellite with a 318, new yorker and imperial with a 440. They were beasts.

[@williambranham6249]

A dodge ball in 8th grade.

[@thejubieexperience]

I got an 82 B250 Mini-Ram with a 318 and a 4 speed(3 with o/d) manual. It's a beast. I take it all over the place, summer and winter. It takes some tinkering to keep it right, but I've never had such a reliable car. And I get 20mpgs on the highway. It's terrible in town though. 11mpgs.

[@Zorazora1234]

Chevy 5.3 6 liter or 4.8 engine is what he recommends I have watched this so many times, like a college class ..

[@duane4972]

Newer Chevy/GMC vans have bad problems with intake manifold gaskets and coolant leaking into the oil causing their engines to require complete replacement. A much more expensive problem than the Fords you obviously dislike. Do the research Please.

[@CheapRVliving]

I never heard of that before but all I could find on it was the older engines and I've never heard of it there before either. Every refrence on the first page was to older engines, 4.3 5.0 and 5.7. As far as I'm concerned it's an apples and oranges comparison. Ford sparkplug failures were a major, chronic problem recognized universally as a terrible design flaw. Google it and it just goes on and on.

[@RideRedFred]

i call bull shit on that ive had 1 2014 gmc savanna 3500 with 50k miles and 1 2006 Chevy express 2500 with 69.5K miles and i have never even had a motor tranny issue ever at all.My neigjbors have had 2016 ford transits and 2 fords E350's with similar milelage and all of them have had motor issues.

[@mikestone9129]

Just found a 1996 Ford E150 Econoline. Can't wait to start the build.

[@BelindaTOV]

Oh my......research all the makes and models flaws....Every make and model has its issues. I'm driving an 89 with a 350 TBI crate engine and get about 18mpg at its best which was the same efficiency I had with the old engine had. The problem was carburetors not working as efficient as a TBI not entirely from regulations. As for breaking down and not wanting to do repairs....maybe the guy willing to help you with repairs has more experience on the older less sensored vehicles.

[@CheapRVliving]

Community certainly comes in handy when breakdowns occur.

[@wascalywabbit]

I had a 70s dodge tradesman 300 30yrs ago,it had a 318 with a single barrel carburetor.. It was a beast..

[@wig5280]

I searched up vans and came to this

[@joecassidy9536]

100% Right on Bob! Great video.

[@marieangeli3333]

“Not a communist or a liberal...”. OMG, lolol 😂