If you’re looking for a 4WD or truck suitable for overlanding, you’re spoilt for choice. However, it’s a very different story if you require a go-anywhere van. Sure, there are 4WD options available, but many of these are technically AWD, and all-terrain capability is adequate at best. It’s no surprise that companies such as Quadvan and Quigley 4×4 have seen an opportunity to uprate popular vans for off-grid travel, focusing on Ford E-Series and GM vans, and increasingly, the Ford Transit.
Why is the Ford Transit such a popular choice for conversion? Firstly, they’re reliable and alarmingly quick if you opt for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine. Furthermore, they’re big enough for a full camper interior but not so big that they’re cumbersome to drive. Finally, OEM and aftermarket parts and accessories are widely available, and if you opt for the factory AWD system, it’s pretty impressive when the tarmac ends (check out Scott Brady’s review on the Expedition Portal Youtube).
Quadvan transforms this platform from a popular vanlife rig into a bonafide overlander using as many Ford parts as possible (namely from the F-150), and several additional in-house components. Today’s Quadvan showcases premium modifications and a partial camper interior, and is priced at $74,000 OBO. That’s no small sum of money but a relative bargain when compared to this comparable $180,000 2019 Ford Transit Quadvan.
From the Seller:
“This is one of the more capable, high-performance campervans from my perspective. I live in an urban environment, and used it as a daily driver at one point. The original factory suspension and steering are pretty tight, and the Ecoboost V6 engine coupled with automatic transmission has plenty of power. The F-150 front end, new Bilstein shocks, 4WD conversion from Quad Van, and 2-inches of added clearance actually tightened the factory steering radius and improved suspension travel and articulation.”
2017 Ford Transit 4×4
The Transit is fitted with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque yet returns a combined 15 mpg (although some owners report over 20 mpg on the highway). The fuel economy isn’t fantastic, but it’s acceptable, considering this large van will accelerate to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds.
This example benefits from a 4×4 conversion from Quadvan, which transforms the Transit’s all-terrain capability using a number of original Ford parts. The company’s current build spec includes an F-150/Raptor front differential, axle assembly, rack and pinion, transfer case, and vacuum-actuated hubs. In addition, they fit custom knuckles, which give the Transit a 2-inch lift, a custom two-piece driveline with serviceable joints, and more.
Distinguishing Features
- Quadvan 4×4 conversion
- Ultra Toil alloy rims with Cooper Discoverer tires
- Fiamma awning
- Vantech cargo rack
- Freshwater, 15-gallon tank
- Two 110-amp-hour batteries with 160-watt solar panel
- Norcold refrigerator
This 2017 Ford Transit 4×4 campervan is listed for $74,000 OBO and is currently located in San Francisco, California. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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