HIGH TOP CONVERSION VAN

TOMMY47 wrote:
Considering an older, mid 90s, high top conversion van. Won't add a whole lot--fridge, micro, bed, marine toilet. Plan to remove all rear seats except one. This is for a lone person and I don't need much. My questions--
1. Are all tops fiberglass?
2. Can a solar panel be attached anywhere?
3. How many batteries do they usually have?
4. Do they have inside plugs for 110 and outside plugs to connect?
5. What type of mpg can I expect(rough estimate),conservative driving?
6. What brand(GM-Ford-Dodge)has the best reputation?

I'll probably think of other things as I look more.
I can do all or most of the stuff myself.
There is a current listing for a 1995 Dodge Ram B2500, 5.9 liter, 360 V8 EFI Magnum with 99,000 miles, rebuilt trans under warranty. Looks in great condition based on pics. $4800.
Does this sound reasonable/good.

1. Yep
2. You can. Think you'd want to stick to putting them on the roof. A good option is useing the 3M VHB tape. It's stronger than the red stuff you get at Home Depot. Easier than drilling holes.
3. Usually 1 house battery and 1 automotive battery. Some with have 2 house batteries. Of that vintage though, you can never be sure what previous owners have done. I'd go with 2 house batteries if you can find the space and convert your lights to LED.
4.They should have an outside plug (shore power 30amp plug) and inside 110v household outlets. You may or not have an inverter.
5.Probably 10-12 mpg depending on a long list of variables. If you find a van with fuel injection, you might do a bit better.
6. The all have their quirks. Most likely you'll find that Fords are more common, followed by Dodge. Nothing wrong with the Chevy, but I don't think they sold as many. I think you can be happy with any one of them if you keep it maintained.

That Dodge seems high if it's just a gussied up passenger van. If it's already a camper conversion, then a fair price if it's not too beaten up or rusted. Crawl underneath and check for rust.