Howdy folks,

just throwin this out there to add more content to the community and share a bit about my plans.

I’ve been building a diy rv/vanlife vehicle, using a 1987 Ford/Grumman Kabmaster. the goal is to have a vehicle that I can boondock on, completely cut off from civilization for up to 2 weeks (and then go resupply). I chose the stepvan because it has a lot of headroom and 90 degree angles (no weird rounded walls like you see in other types of vans)

Linked is my youtube channel documenting the buildout thus far, in slideshow form as I have found it is much easier to take pictures than to try to shoot raw video and edit it later on (shaky cam syndrome, etc).

bought the vehicle from a local seller in my area & got some of the modifications done that I wanted before having the engine (Cummins 4bt diesel, 105hp) looked at - it had been having issues and I knew that it was in a bad way but they said “imminent catastrophic failure” - and as they were unable to source some parts due to covid and the nonsense with the train workers union strikes going on at the time, I decided to shop around and find someone who could do an LS swap & get a new engine in there.

Thus far, my stepvan has been in the shop for quite some time now - my mechanic is an older guy and has had covid/hospitalized twice, had some health issues after that and there have been delays in getting parts shipped out here, plus he had a death in the family and had to take time off for that. these kind of things always take 3x longer than you thing they’re going to. anyway, I’m having the following performed:

  • install new engine & new/updated components (intake manifold, radiator, hoses/tubing, etc)
  • removing old manual transmission (gearing was too low really, would have cost more to keep the standard trans) to an automatic transmission + various components relating to that (universal joint, new drive shaft & rear diff/gearing)
  • some suspension work
  • new breaking/hydraulics system
  • revamped exhaust system
  • removing the diesel fuel system and installing new parts for a gasoline fuel system (gas is just cheaper than diesel these days, I remember when it was crazy cheap).
  • custom dash work done for new gauges/meters (original speedometer topped out at 55mph).
  • need to get 5x new tires too but probably not through my mechanic, I’ll go to Costco or something.

so yeah, it’s a lot of work but my mechanic said he’s getting close to being done… I’ve been working on designing a plumbing system (interior fresh water tank & water filtration for drinking, on-demand hot water for the sink/shower, interior grey water holding tank) and an electrical system (solar, 48v LiFePO4 battery stepdown to 12v for interior appliances + inverter/charger for my 120v loads - electronics/networking gear).

its a load of planning and work to get the parts all meshing up right. when I get my stepvan back from my mechanic I will add more videos as I document the process of my buildout.

Videos at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF938X4yT0IHLy4TpFCJg-w

enjoy ;)