The Best of the Best
Van builds can lead to endless research. We've distilled the very best to help shorten the process.
The Best Appliances
Best Air Conditioner: Fresair S8 Van Conversion Kit
Why: The battery requirements are too great for 12v compressor A/C's. This evaporative cooler only draws 8 amps allowing all day use with a modest battery bank.
Best Water Pump: Seaflo 33 Series
Why: No need to splurge here. In our experience all pumps eventually fail. This one has been sufficiently reliable with quiet operation. 3 gal. per minute.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P8BE6S8/ref=ewc_pr_img_2?smid=A3EBZ5HHZPL73&psc=1
Best Ceiling Fan: MaxxAir Maxxfan Deluxe
Why: 10 Speed, quiet, lower power draw and is able to push and pull air. Able to be used while driving.
https://www.maxxair.com/Products/fans/maxxfan-deluxe-00-07500K/
The Best Van and Van Upgrades
Best Van for Camper Builds: AWD Ford Transit 350 Extended. 3.5 L V6.
Why: Repairs for Sprinter and diesels tend to be very expensive and lengthy due to part shortages. The EcoBoost, while powerful, suffers reliability problems. Promaster is front wheel drive and 4 inches shorter. What's left? This van.
Best Suspension Upgrade: Loadlifter 5000 Ultimate
Why: Simple installation that can lift the back end 2" leveling the load, improving the ride with a heavier build, and raising the trailer hitch to decrease the amount of dragging over curbs and gutters.
https://www.airliftcompany.com/vehicles/ford/transit-350/2022
Best Floor Liners: Husky Weatherbeater
Why: Excellent floor coverage to protect the van, Removable, washable, and they look great. We would have strongly considered WeatherTech but they do not make them for our year of Transit van (2022)!
Best Camper Van Windows: RV Exit Window from Amazon.
Why: Easy (relatively) install. Include shade and screen. Very easy to open with multple stops to hold the window out. Certainly big enough to escape through if necessary.
Best Water Tank: S&B 24 gallon Wheel Well Water Tank
Why: Ample water storage. Low profile enough to place a bench/bed over it. Makes good use of a space that otherwise can be hard to use.
Best Floor Liners: Husky Weatherbeater
Why: Excellent floor coverage to protect the van, Removable, washable, and they look great. We would have strongly considered WeatherTech but they do not make them for our year of Transit van (2022)!