We seem to be really lacking on build threads around here lately, maybe everyone is out enjoying instead of building..at that would be great. So i thought i would share my take on building a 170 Sprinter 4x4. You can see my build thread for 2020 AWD Transit i did (which i stupidly sold) as a reference for how i build
I try to build with the "less is more" mentality coming from the overland world. i resist microwaves, espresso machines, particle accelerators etc, and try to be as conscious as possible about weight and weight locations.
Long story short, i was asked to build this 170 4x4 sprinter because of that transit. So this is a 2022, one of only a handful to make it off the boat into Quebec (rumor is 1 of 2). Layout is for a very outdoor savy family of 4 with only basic amenities, but indoor heated shower is a must (as well as sleeping for 4) because they do long hikes and want a refresh when they get back to camp.
blank slate
shop dog wondering why there is another sprinter here instead of the replacement Transit we ordered 15 months ago
First order of business after careful measuring of layout was to get installed a Transport Canada certified Freedman stow and go seat. Canada is very picky about certifying everything (call it a cash grab...), cant just bolt in a lawn chair and call it good like the US can do (i am a US citizen so i can make fun), needs to be installed by someone who paid the $$$$$ to get certified with pull test. Since it isnt my first rodeo i knew i should build a spacer representing my finished floor with support in the ribs, other wise they just tighten the bolts down and distort the metal. Also better to do before the real floor is installed. so made a "fake floor" and wall so they knew where to place the seat.
and here is what you get from the certified installer that keeps transport canada happy, a new ink jet printer created sticker that changes vehicle capacity from 2 to 4....i joke, its a good thing.
thats it for now--but now the real build can commence. ill try to keep updated log going
Transit AWD build overland style-I'm back in a van
I havent seen anyone post any build logs on expo for the AWD Transit yet so figured i had better start one. I personally think the AWD transit is going to become a very viable option in the near future (and if difficulty in getting one proves anything--already is). I'm back in a van after many...
expeditionportal.com
Long story short, i was asked to build this 170 4x4 sprinter because of that transit. So this is a 2022, one of only a handful to make it off the boat into Quebec (rumor is 1 of 2). Layout is for a very outdoor savy family of 4 with only basic amenities, but indoor heated shower is a must (as well as sleeping for 4) because they do long hikes and want a refresh when they get back to camp.
blank slate
shop dog wondering why there is another sprinter here instead of the replacement Transit we ordered 15 months ago
First order of business after careful measuring of layout was to get installed a Transport Canada certified Freedman stow and go seat. Canada is very picky about certifying everything (call it a cash grab...), cant just bolt in a lawn chair and call it good like the US can do (i am a US citizen so i can make fun), needs to be installed by someone who paid the $$$$$ to get certified with pull test. Since it isnt my first rodeo i knew i should build a spacer representing my finished floor with support in the ribs, other wise they just tighten the bolts down and distort the metal. Also better to do before the real floor is installed. so made a "fake floor" and wall so they knew where to place the seat.
and here is what you get from the certified installer that keeps transport canada happy, a new ink jet printer created sticker that changes vehicle capacity from 2 to 4....i joke, its a good thing.
thats it for now--but now the real build can commence. ill try to keep updated log going