That hitch looks real low. How far from ground is it when it's done?

That paint looks pretty nice. I'm glad to see this project is getting close to finished.
You'll need to post a walk around video once you're done.

 

The hitch sits about 12-13" of the ground. It is about the same height off the ground as his hitch plate on his F-650.

Steve S.
To many to list.

 

That will outlast the van. It's easily the strongest hitch set up I've ever seen for a tag along.

 

cant wait to see this thing painted!

Whats the reasoning for going from a much newer F650 to the van though? Van is way cooler, but that was just unexpected.

 

I was wondering the same thing. I was wondering if it was a combination of mileage and interior room.

 

In PA, the f 650 has to be registered commercial, which means lots of money. Plus the extra room of the van comes in handy. The 650 isnt as unique anymore either. If there is another one of these vans around I would be shocked lol. Also the 650 has the Cat motor, which the owner has not been that impressed with. All of which has brought on this build.

Steve S.
To many to list.

 

Outstanding!

 

The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.





Everything was removed for painting. No earl schibe job here.





Going back together.



White main body, a charcoal bottom, with a blue stripe in between.

A little bit more will go back on the van, then it is back to me to finish up the wiring and cluster.

Steve S.
To many to list.

 

So much awesome.
Great job buddy

 

So cool! Great work and really looking forward to the finished product.

 

Amazing work and great concept super duty van 650

would like to see the gound clearance of that hitch plate
kinda surprised you didn't incorporate it into a custom bumper

A few thoughts...
Did you reinforce the frame any?
perhaps another crossmember in front of the axle or like a double frame.
i'm thinking heavier sway bars and such as well
Plenty of windows but... perhaps a rear backup camera?
and a dash camera would be a must to avoid any one saying it was your fault.
and a work light(s) for rear doors/hitch area
if the trailer is taller than the van perhaps some spoiler/fin on top of van?
cannot wait to see it done.

 

Time for an update, and answer some questions that have come up.

The clearance under the hitch plate is 12" from the ground. This plate is the same height as hitch plate on his current F-650. The rear suspension is auto leveling air ride, so the rear of the van will stay at the same height no matter the load on the hitch.

When adding the fuel tank in the rear, the frame cross members were modified and reinforced in anticipation of the towing this van will do. A plate will also be added inside of the frame rail where the hitch bolts.

The Superduty sway bar was used up front, but there is no sway bar in the rear due to the suspension system used.

There will be a "safari' style rack on the top of the van. The van should be about even with the trailer.

The details are not finalized for the interior yet, but I am sure a camera is in the plans.

Ok, now on to pictures



It is getting closer!!!!






The emblems.






And 1 of the major items on the to do list is checked off!!!! This van is officially 4 wheel drive now. With the turn of a dial on the dash.....



And with the van in neutral and your foot on the brake, turn the dial once more and......



The ESOF functions just as the factory intended (in a Superduty at least).

The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.

Steve S.
To many to list.

 

Impressive.

Even the logos on the side vents are customized! Ill love to see this thing in real life.

 

I'd also love to see this on the road and/or in action----maybe borrow a GoPro and take about an hours worth of video for us?

A tour of the completed van, show the special additions and enhancements you've made, seen driving on the road---all that "touristy" stuff.

 

My hats off to you in this build!!!!! FANTASTIC JOB!!!!!!