New to this, need help learning how to sell a Sportsmobile

[geoffff]

TTB ("Twin Traction Beam") is a front suspension used in Ford 4x4 full size trucks up to the 90s.

In a true independent front suspension, the front differential is connected to two joints, which connect to a pair of "half" shafts. There are four joints. When one wheel hits a bump, only that half shaft goes up and down. The rest of the suspension doesn't have to move.

An example of independent suspension. Differential (gap at center) not shown.​

The TTB is a bit simplified, with only two axle parts and a single joint in between. The driver side part contains the differential. When one wheel hits a bump, only that half of the front axle moves.

Dana 50 TTB (at the bottom), in 2 parts​

In a solid front axle, everything -- differential, and the entire axle -- all moves when a wheel hits a bump. It is stronger than TTB because there are fewer joints, but the ride quality is worse.

solid front axle​

The TTB is a compromise -- with some of the ride comfort of independent front suspension, and some of the strength of a solid front axle.

Dana 50 was the largest/beefiest of the TTB front axles used by Ford, so it's the one used on full size van 4x4 conversions.

 

[geoffff]

That may account for the notably nice ride even on the rocky washboard dirt roads around here, most vehicles do not make people happy on the roads. can you explain what TTB means? also, he wasn't positive about it... do you think he was positive enough to say that it is definitely a Dana 50 TTB?

The TTB Dana 50 looks like nothing else. It has two parts, with a joint bending in between. The differential is on the driver side of that joint.

You won't confuse it with a solid axle.

 

[geoffff]

Send us a photo of your front axle, taken from the front under the bumper?

 

[Sajaz]

Thanks for the great tutorial! Real nice to know something for sure about it!

 

[86Scotty]

Yes Sajaz, looks like you have a TTB. It is sought after by many on vans and no company is converting them like this anymore. The advantages are a smoother ride and more travel with a lower stance.

Tons of info on this forum by TTB owners over the years.

 

[Sajaz]

Thanks for that info, 86Scotty, it's very helpful.

Now i need to advertise the van!

 

[86Scotty]

Might be an easy sale. Throw it up on this forum. Lots of us buy/sell from time to time and lots more of us know people who are looking.

And it's free.

Cheers!

 

[Sajaz]

So glad to hear that, 86Scotty! Thanks, will get on that tomorrow and maybe even git 'er done.

 

[Sajaz]

1994 Ford E-350 4x4 Sportsmobile with Pop Top/Penthouse
Tucson, AZ $14,500

• Engine: 7.5L (460 cu. in) V8
• Fuel: gasoline
• Transmission: Automatic
• 4WD system with 2H, 4H, 4L, and Neutral settings - front
• TTB - "twin traction beam" - suspension used in Ford 4x4 full size trucks through the 90s - advantages are a smoother ride and more travel with a lower stance.
• Mileage: 146,255 miles
• Tuned exhaust (Headers - added fuel economy)
• Gear vendor (fuel-saving overdrive)
• King Air Shocks
• Heater works great and AC is cold
• High clearance for off-road capabilities
• Heavy-duty front and rear bumpers
• Low VOC new Baltic birch interior, with moisture-and-mold-proof styrofoam insulation, ready for new refit.
• Roof rack
• Pop up top provides additional headroom, sleeping space, and screened ventilation – “surround” and screens in good shape, needs new clear vinyl windows
• Seating Capacity: 2
• Sleeping Capacity: 2-4
• Rust-free
• Regularly serviced, with maintenance and repair records since it was purchased in 2020.
• Located in Tucson, Arizona.

Birch plywood is used for all interior surfaces. Interior currently has no foam except in seats (which are from a Toyota Sienna and are much more comfortable/easier on the back than the originals as well as being much newer). Original interior was entirely stripped, and floor, walls and ceiling redone. Clean and has never had mold issues. All this was done because of chemical sensitivities to usual products used in RVs. Styrofoam sheet insulation installed behind the plywood. All plywood sealed with safe polyurethane sealer ("Polyureseal" from AFM Safecoat). Penthouse surround and screens in good condition, but clear vinyl windows need replacement. Van has great smooth ride even on rough roads.

Details and work done

Interior rear (below bed platform) built-in heavy duty metal storage boxes
Water tank
New front wheel alignment
New heater core
New steering gear
New windshield
Brake fluid newly flushed
Old original front seats removed and replaced with recent Toyota Sienna seats
3 new tires
New front brake rotors and pads
Oil change January 2025 at mileage 145,500

Contact owner at 520-468-9428 in Tucson.

 

[Twoxentrix]

Suggest you start a NEW Thread since a "For Sale: title will attract buyers quicker than posting in this Thread titled "New to this, need help learning how to sell a Sportsmobile".

 

[Sajaz]

OK, thanks, had no idea how to go about this. the new thread should be in this particular forum though, right?

 

[Twoxentrix]

Correct, Start the Thread in the "Member Classifieds"

This will help (post #6):​

Forums 101 | Posting Help, Account and Forum basics

Welcome to the board! Here's some info to help you navigate the forum and manage your account. Please take a moment to read through this discussion if you are having trouble posting or have other basic questions about how our forum works. Here are some links to find more help (if you don't find...

www.sportsmobileforum.com

 

[Sajaz]

Finally got it, new ad up in Classifieds.
Thanks for the help to all. Any constructive comments on the ad are welcome.