Off-Grid Rig with the Comforts of Home
I built this ambulance conversion with full-time van life in mind, but after moving to Colorado, it quickly became my winter ski camper and summer hiking base station. Whether you’re heading out for extended off-grid trips or weekend escapes, this van offers a luxurious, functional, and durable setup.
Comfort was my highest priority when designing this build, without sacrificing durability and practicality. Work and eat from the slide-out desk/couch setup, snuggle up for a movie, and shower indoors with the drain-free shower—all after a long day in the backcountry.
What truly sets this van apart is reliability. The legendary 7.3L Powerstroke Turbo Diesel is just getting broken in and easily has 500K+ miles before any major service is needed. With meticulous preventative maintenance and extensive upgrades, you can drive with confidence into remote terrain.
Ski and mountain trips have proven this van is dialed in and ready for full-time living or deep backcountry adventures.
Ongoing Use, Upgrades & Maintenance
Mileage – Will slowly increase as I continue traveling in it.
Ongoing Upgrades
- Onboard Network for Remote Monitoring – Stay connected and monitor systems remotely
- Battery Bank Expansion – Increased energy storage for longer off-grid capability
- Dual Inverter Setup – Improved energy efficiency and power management
- Heat Exchanger Hot Water System – Replacing the current propane setup for greater efficiency and reliability
Current Maintenance in Progress
- Windshield Replacement – Addressing a rock chip
- On-Spot Traction System – Being removed or serviced depending on current condition
- A/C System Leak – Awaiting warmer weather to diagnose and replace any necessary seals
Key Features & Build Highlights
✅ 7.3L Powerstroke Diesel – The most reliable engine Ford ever built
✅ Fully Off-Grid Capable – Solar power, battery bank, inverter, and shore power hookup
✅ Water System – Fresh & grey water tank (for sink only), on-demand pump, indoor shower
✅ Cassette Toilet – No black water, no hassle, reliable for cold weather operation
✅ Kitchenette Setup – Sink (hot and cold), large fridge/freezer, storage, and cooking space
✅ Roof Rack & Exterior Storage – Bring all your ski gear and strap your surfboard to the roof!
✅ Comfortable Sleeping Setup – Full-size bed built-in with ventilation, making it comfortable for two. Couch has an extension to sleep another guest up to 6’6″.
✅ Shore Power Input – Charge up when parked at a hookup
✅ Always-On Rear Camera – Functions as a rearview mirror replacement for full visibility
✅ Apple CarPlay / Android Auto Head Unit – Modern connectivity for navigation & music
✅ Onboard Air Compressor – Cab-mounted switch for easy tire adjustments
✅ Speakers in Rear Living Area – Integrated with head unit for immersive sound
✅ Awning – Provides shade (limited life left)
✅ Amber Fog Lights & LED Headlights – Maximum visibility in low-light conditions
✅ 50″ Light Bar – Lights up the trail when off-road
Maintenance & Condition
🔧 Meticulously Maintained & Performance Upgraded
This rig has been regularly serviced and upgraded to ensure top-tier reliability, power, and off-road performance. Every major system has been addressed, making this van ready for its next adventure.
Performance Upgrades & Engine Enhancements
- High-Pressure Line Crossover Kit – Balances oil pressure for smoother injector performance
- PHP Hydra Tuning Kit – 14 Power Hungry Performance tunes, increasing HP up to 140 HP
- New KC Turbo – Boosts performance and efficiency
- New Injectors – Ensures optimal fuel delivery and power
- Exhaust Back Pressure Valve (EBPV) Delete – Improves exhaust flow and reliability
- Injector Cups Checked – Inspected during injector replacement for peace of mind
- New Under Valve Cover Harnesses (UVCH) – Replaced to prevent electrical failures
- New Glow Plugs – Ensures smooth cold starts
- New ICP (Injection Control Pressure) Sensor – Maintains fuel system efficiency
- New High-Pressure Oil Pump (HPOP) – Supports strong and consistent injector pressure
- Billet Aluminum Machined Resonator Cap – Improves airflow under the engine and simplifies maintenance
- New Oil Cooler – Hard to find as they are no longer made for 7.3L vans. Ensures proper oil flow, cooling, and injector performance, especially in mountain conditions.
Cooling & Fuel System Overhaul
- New Radiator – Keeps engine temperatures regulated in extreme conditions
- Dropped Fuel Tank & Replaced Fuel Tank Filters – Ensures a clean, efficient fuel supply
- New Fuel Filter – Further protects injectors and fuel system performance
Steering, Suspension, & Driveability
- New Steering Box – Eliminates Ford’s common backlash issue for precise steering
- New Steering Rack – Ensures smooth and responsive handling
- Sway Bar Stabilizer – Enhances stability, especially on rough terrain
- Aftermarket Front Struts & Springs – Provides a comfortable and controlled ride
- New Idler Pulleys – Ensures smooth operation of the serpentine belt system
Essential Maintenance & Reliability Updates
- New Vacuum Pump – Supports critical braking and HVAC functions
- New Serpentine Belt & Tensioner Pulleys – Essential for long-term reliability
- Complete A/C System Replacement – Ice-cold air, perfect for warm climates
- New Lower and Upper Alternators – Ensures consistent power supply
- New A/T Tires – Ready for off-road and highway driving
- 3K Oil Change Intervals – Maintained religiously with Hot Shots Stiction Eliminator
This low-mileage 7.3L Powerstroke diesel has been comprehensively upgraded and field-tested. Whether you’re heading off-grid, towing, or exploring rugged terrain, this van is dialed in, ultra-reliable, and built to last.
📸 Check out the photos! (Include high-quality images of the van, engine bay, and key upgrades)
