Just sold my 4x4 truck and will be selling my 2WD conversion van in order to get a van that will serve the combined purpose of both vehicles.
I have three vans I am currently considering, but have only been lightly researching 4x4 vans for a year now and need advice.
A little background: I need something pretty basic because I don't want to pay for cabinets, sinks and stoves I will only have to remove from the van to suite my needs. Aside from that, I've always wanted a cosmetic project vehicle. I am a recreational dog sledder and backpacker. The van will have to be reliable in some of the coldest places in the U.S. in the winter and also work well for getting to cool camping spots in places like Indian Creek (near Moab) year-round. The reason I can't have any extras inside besides a bed, is that it has to fit a 9.5 foot long dog sled, at least two large dogs, gear, and maybe even two cats on occasion. I don't like the factory window van look and am currently trying to figure out how to get rid of the fixed side windows and replace some with vented windows.
The 3 current winners:
1999 Ford EB V10 with 245K miles:
http://saltlakecity.craigslist.org/rvs/1755567670.html
1994 Ford EB 7.4L V8 with 63K miles:
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/cto/1770716114.html
1991 Ford EB 460 big block V8 with 130K miles:
http://wolfwheatridge.com/vehicle_preow ... GXMHB40226
Any advice, suggestions, opinions, etc. will be much appreciated. My husband likes the '91 because it looks cushy inside and already has the conversion windows. I am more concerned with function as an adventure rig and the ease of finding parts and donor vehicles later on. I am content to sleep on the ground and figure out problems as they come up, my husband likes first class lodging and hates surprises... this van is to be our compromise. Thanks!