Overview Ford Transit:

  • Versatile Van: The Ford Transit camper offers the perfect combination of functionality and comfort, making it an ideal choice for travelers and adventurers seeking flexibility.
  • Adaptability: With various equipment options and customizable conversions, the Transit camper can be tailored to the specific needs of its users – whether for short trips or longer journeys.
  • Comfort & Features: The camper is equipped with modern amenities such as a kitchenette, sleeping areas, and storage space to ensure a cozy travel experience.
  • Energy Efficiency: The Ford Transit camper impresses not only with its interior layout but also with its efficient engines, enabling economical and environmentally friendly driving.
Ford Transit conversion with solar power and additional lighting

The procurement of the Ford Transit

The Ford Transit was purchased in December 2022 through Mobile. The photos gave a very good impression of the vehicle. The purchase price was €6,000. Unfortunately, since we bought the van in the dark, I was surprised to discover rust in the interior after we emptied it out and took a closer look in daylight.

Pictures and technical data of the van before the conversion into a camper

Brand Ford
Modell Transit
Mileage (as of Dec. 2022) 118,000 KM
First registration February 2008
Fuel type Diesel
PS 110 HP ( 81KW )
Gearbox Manual / Gearshift
Vehicle type Transporter
Number of doors 4/5
Inspection valid until Novermber 2023
Environmental badge 4 ( Green )
Emission class Euro4

Planned conversion and checklist

The conversion of the Ford Transit into a camper will be very time-consuming. Below is a list of the key areas that need to be converted or added for the Ford campervan:

Electrical installation and expansion

Repairs to paint and bodywork

  • Painting of the rear and front bumpers

  • Rust treatment for the interior

  • Rust treatment for the underbody

  • Rust treatment for the exterior bodywork

  • Painting in olive green

Maintenance and repair of the engine

  • New front headlights

  • Seal the oil pan
  • Replace the front cover

  • Oil change and service

  • New front brakes

  • Off-road tires (for rugged terrain)

Interior (living space) conversion

  • Television and refrigerator

  • Bed frame, mattresses, blankets, and pillows

  • Lighting
  • Wardrobe

  • Decorative walls and ceiling

  • insulation

The conversion of the Ford Transit into a camper van on YouTube

Follow me as I convert the Ford Transit into a camper van. The conversion will be documented and published on YouTube.

Problems with the Ford Transit after the purchase

In December 2022, I purchased a used Ford Transit that I plan to convert into a small camper. However, there are issues with the vehicle.

The first problem is that the engine stalls when idling. When I try to press the gas pedal to keep it running, it takes a long time for the engine to respond. Sometimes I have to give small taps on the pedal to get it going again. It’s very frustrating and makes the vehicle difficult to drive.

The second problem is that the engine shows fluctuations in RPM when I give steady and consistent throttle while idling. Fortunately, these fluctuations don’t occur while driving, but as soon as I press the clutch, the issue returns and the engine stalls again when idling.

I already took the vehicle to a workshop, where they found that some connectors were damp. These were dried, and a new battery was installed. They also discovered that a cover near the throttle body was missing — a part that normally shouldn’t be missing. It was temporarily sealed with duct tape.

Unfortunately, the workshop wasn’t able to access the vehicle’s electronics to identify further issues. The error memory was empty, and the only data they could retrieve was the fuel pressure, which they said was normal. They couldn’t explain why they were unable to access the electronic systems.

After the workshops I had previously visited couldn’t help me, I decided to call the ADAC. The ADAC mechanic performed a diagnostic check and found that the rail pressure in the actual values was fluctuating heavily.

When the fuel pressure regulator was disconnected, the engine ran better using a substitute value of around 450 bar. The mechanic suggested replacing the fuel pressure regulator but couldn’t say with certainty whether this was possible with my specific model.

He explained that there are certain models where replacing the fuel pressure regulator isn’t possible, as it could result in parts falling into the engine bay. I’m now looking for information on whether I can replace the fuel pressure regulator myself.

Solutions for the 3 problems (engine stalling, engine fluctuations)

The engine problems were actually very easy to fix. I replaced the diesel pressure sensor, which cost €120 and, as mentioned before, resolved all the issues. Contrary to what the ADAC had said, the sensor could be replaced and connected without any complications.

Current status of the Ford Transit camper van as of April 2024

Ford Transit conversion with solar power and additional lighting

The current status of the Ford Transit camper van includes the bumpers, lighting, electrical system, the conversion of the cargo area, and the condition of the engine.

The additional lighting (work lights) can be controlled via a remote control, allowing you to operate the lights from a distance.

Especially when sitting around the campfire or needing pathway lighting, the remote control makes it convenient.