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rv:ford_transit [2022/03/28 17:22]
princess_fluffypants [Tires]
rv:ford_transit [2024/03/04 18:28] (current)
princess_fluffypants [Tires]
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 ====== Ford Transit ====== ====== Ford Transit ======
  
-{{https://s3.amazonaws.com/remorainc/angelakrauseford.com/history/transit+cargo/2cffaed201fe06a99e081794fdbf3469x.jpg?200 }}The Transit [[rv:eurovan|eurovan]] has been sold overseas for decades but has only been offered in the US since 2015 as a replacement for the [[rv:ford_e-series|Econoline-series vans]]. It is currently the best-selling van in the US. Compared to the Econoline, the Transit offers noticeable increases in creature comforts, fuel economy, interior space, height, and build quality, with sacrifices made in towing and off-pavement capability. ((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Transit))+{{:rv:transit.jpg?nolink&400 |}}The Transit [[rv:eurovan|eurovan]] has been sold overseas for decades but has only been offered in the US since 2015 as a replacement for the [[rv:ford_e-series|Econoline-series vans]]. It is currently the best-selling van in the US. Compared to the Econoline, the Transit offers noticeable increases in creature comforts, fuel economy, interior space, height, and build quality, with sacrifices made in towing and off-pavement capability. ((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Transit))
  
 ---- ----
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 ===== Facts and Figures ===== ===== Facts and Figures =====
  
-The stock van offered in North America is RWD, but can be ordered as [[rv:awd|AWD]] from the factory starting with the 2020 model year. It is available in a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) for GVRWs above 9,550lbs.+The stock van offered in North America is RWD, but can be ordered as [[rv:awd|AWD]] from the factory starting with the 2020 model year. It is available in a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) for GVRWs of 9,950lbs and above. 
 + 
 +Beginning in 2023, Ford began offering a "Trail" package for the AWD Transit, which comes with a 2" factory lift and larger tires that combine to offer a 3.5" increased ride height over the standard van. It comes with an electronic speed limit of 81mph.((https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/ford-transit-trail-owners-and-future-buyers-81-mph-limiter.97876/#replies))
  
 ==== Dimensions ==== ==== Dimensions ====
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 === Engine === === Engine ===
  
 +
 +{{:rv:screenshot_2022-07-27_164105.png?nolink&250 |}}
 The stock engine is a naturally aspirated V-6 ([[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Cyclone_engine#3.7_L|3.7L for 2015-2019, 3.5L for 2020+]]), with 3.5L Twin-Turbo Ecoboost and 5cyl diesels available. As of 2022, the diesel is no longer offered and has been replaced with the all-electric E-Transit. The stock engine is a naturally aspirated V-6 ([[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Cyclone_engine#3.7_L|3.7L for 2015-2019, 3.5L for 2020+]]), with 3.5L Twin-Turbo Ecoboost and 5cyl diesels available. As of 2022, the diesel is no longer offered and has been replaced with the all-electric E-Transit.
  
-The Ecoboost engine in all model years of Transits is the Gen1 engine, and does not have the additional enhancements given to the Gen2 engine found in the F-150 and other consumer vehicles.+The Ecoboost engine in all model years of Transits is the Gen1 engine, not the Gen2 engine found in the F-150. With 400ft/lbs of torque coming in at just 2,500rpm it is surprisingly punchy and easily motivates even the biggest vans. 
 + 
 +Auto-Start-Stop (A.S.S) was mandatory on the engines for 2020-2022, but has been dropped for 2023 due to manufacturing delays and chip shortages. 
 + 
 +=== Drivetrain === 
 + 
 +From 2015-2019, all engines used the same six-speed automatic transmission.  Beginning in 2020, all vans switched to the new 10-speed automatic transmission. 
 + 
 +The Transit has been offered with either 3.31, 3.73, and 4.10 rear differentials in either open or mechanical limited-slip options.  For the 2022 model year, the 3.31 option was dropped.  All factory AWD options use limited-slip differentials. 
 + 
 +Ford offers a variety of GVRWs from 8,000lbs-11,000lbs, with dual rear wheels for the 9,950lb, 10,360lb (high roof extended-length passenger vans), and 11,000lb GVRW. The 9,950lb GVRW option is recommended if possible, as keeping the GVRW under 10,000lbs will frequently result in cheaper insurance and registration fees.((This varies by state and even insurance company, but many insurance companies will not offer consumer insurance on vehicles over 10,000lbs GVRW. They only offer Commercial insurance, which is a lot more expensive.))
  
 === Roof Height === === Roof Height ===
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 The Transit's cargo area walls are noticeably straighter than the [[rv:sprinter|Sprinter]] but not as square as the [[rv:ram_promaster|Promaster]]. The width is about 69"((http://sportsmobile.com/van-dimensions/)), tapering to about 62" just below the roof beams.((http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/389858-post8.html))  Width between the wheel wells is 53.7" for a single-rear-wheel or 44.5" for a dual-rear-wheel((http://www.ford.com/commercial-trucks/transit-cargo-van/2017/models/transit-van/)).   The Transit's cargo area walls are noticeably straighter than the [[rv:sprinter|Sprinter]] but not as square as the [[rv:ram_promaster|Promaster]]. The width is about 69"((http://sportsmobile.com/van-dimensions/)), tapering to about 62" just below the roof beams.((http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/389858-post8.html))  Width between the wheel wells is 53.7" for a single-rear-wheel or 44.5" for a dual-rear-wheel((http://www.ford.com/commercial-trucks/transit-cargo-van/2017/models/transit-van/)).  
 Measured from "skin to skin"((to the sheet metal, not to the ribs)), a maximum width of 74" can be realized.((http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/22257-post21.html)) Measured from "skin to skin"((to the sheet metal, not to the ribs)), a maximum width of 74" can be realized.((http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/22257-post21.html))
 +
 +=== Color ===
 +
 +The Transit is offered in a range of greys, with the most common options being white. Passenger vans are commonly black, as they're frequently used as airport shuttles.
 +
 +Color choice can have a significant impact on interior vehicle temperature, especially for those spending time in warm climates.  A Ford dealer lined up a bunch of vans of different colors in the afternoon sun and [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/ordering-question-about-color.86639/post-1130220|took the following temperature measurements]] off the skin:
 +
 +  * Ingot Silver: 113-114
 +  * Oxford White: 118-119
 +  * Other colors: in the 120s
 +  * Carbonized Gray: 142
  
 === Interior mounting holes and sizes === === Interior mounting holes and sizes ===
  
-The van is Metric and intended to work with Metric fasteners. There's no rhyme or reason for how and where they're placed, and the spacing between them is seemingly random.+The van is Metric, uses metric fastners throughout and all pre-threaded holes are metric. There's no rhyme or reason for how and where they're placed, and the spacing between them is seemingly random.
  
 {{ :rv:van_hole_measurements.png?direct&600 |}} {{ :rv:van_hole_measurements.png?direct&600 |}}
  
-The majority of the holes in the cargo area of the van work perfectly with M6 rivnuts or plusnuts. The majority of pre-threaded holes are M8x1.25 thread, with a few being M10x1.5. See video here: https://youtu.be/mpoE20subxE+The majority of the holes in the cargo area of the van are 9.38mm in diameter, and usually work well with M6 or 1/4-20 rivnuts. Most Rivnuts from Amazon fit fine, but some rivnuts (most notably from McMaster-Carr) are actually slightly too large and need a full 10mm hole The majority of pre-threaded holes are M8x1.25 thread, with a few being M10x1.5. See video here: https://youtu.be/mpoE20subxE
  
-While some people have been able to force 1/4-20 rivnuts and plusnut into the factory holes, most holes will need to be enlarged slightly if you insist on using SAE fasteners.((There's varying reports on this.  Some have reported that 1/4-20s fit easily with a tap, some report that they need to be hammered in or the holes need to be enlarged. The differences may come down to different manufacturing specs from the different makers of plus-nuts.)) +[[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/crossnuts-vs-rivetnuts-and-other-hacks-an-experimentation-on-spinout-resistance.92575/|Comparison of Rivnuts vs Plusnuts]] 
 + 
 +While some people have been able to use plusnut into the factory holes, most holes will need to be enlarged slightly.((There's varying reports on this.  Some have reported that 1/4-20s fit easily with a tap, some report that they need to be hammered in or the holes need to be enlarged. The differences may come down to different manufacturing specs from the different makers of plus-nuts.)) 
  
 === Alternator output === === Alternator output ===
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-=== Drivetrain === 
- 
-From 2015-2019, all engines used the same six-speed automatic transmission.  Beginning in 2020, all vans switched to the new 10-speed automatic transmission. 
- 
-The Transit has been offered with either 3.31, 3.73, and 4.10 rear differentials in either open or mechanical limited-slip options.  For the 2022 model year, the 3.31 option was dropped.  All factory AWD options use limited-slip differentials. 
  
-Ford offers a variety of GVRWs from 8,000lbs-11,000lbs, with dual-rear-wheel models for anything over 9,500lbs. If you're ordering a "dually", Ford offers a 9,950lb GVRW option which is //highly// recommended as keeping the GVRW under 10,000lbs will frequently result in cheaper insurance and registration fees. 
  
 === Single vs. Dual Rear Wheel === === Single vs. Dual Rear Wheel ===
  
-Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) vans offer advantages in load-carrying capacity which can be critical for heavier builds.  They can also offer better performance in when driving in conditions with deep sand, gravel and mud (when equipped with proper tires) as the much larger contact patch prevents them from sinking into the surface. The wheel track of DRW vans is 2" wider than SRW, and some owners report that it gives a more stable and solid feeling when driving on pavement. It also offers redundancy and control in the event of a sudden rear tire blowout.+Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) vans offer advantages in load-carrying capacity which can be critical for heavier builds.  They can also offer better performance in when driving in conditions with deep sand, gravel and mud (when equipped with proper tires) as the much larger contact patch prevents them from sinking into the surface. The wheel track of DRW vans is 5" wider than SRW (78.3" for SRW, 83.1" for DRW) and all DRW vans come with a factory sway bar which gives a more stable and solid feeling when driving on pavement.((For single-rear-wheel vans, only the passenger vans come with a swap bar from the factory)) It also offers redundancy and control in the event of a sudden rear tire blowout.
  
-Single-Rear-Wheel vans are preferred for vans that are frequently driven on snowy pavement, as the narrower contact contact patch can more easily press down through the snow and to the pavement below.  +Single-Rear-Wheel vans are preferred for vans that are frequently driven on snowy pavement, as the narrower contact patch can more easily press down through snow to pavement below.  
  
 The costs of needing to replace 6 tires instead of 4 is mostly a wash, as the tire sizes used on the DRW are cheaper than the SRW. The costs of needing to replace 6 tires instead of 4 is mostly a wash, as the tire sizes used on the DRW are cheaper than the SRW.
 +
 +The rear valve stems are pain in the butt to access on a DRW van, making airing tires up/down extremely frustrating.  Air valve extension hoses are highly recommended.
  
 ==== Notes on AWD (All Wheel Drive) ==== ==== Notes on AWD (All Wheel Drive) ====
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 There is no appreciable fuel economy savings from the base engine vs the turbocharged "Ecoboost" engine. There is no appreciable fuel economy savings from the base engine vs the turbocharged "Ecoboost" engine.
  
-Roof racks seem to have a significant on highway fuel economy, losing 2-3mpg at highway speeds. [[https://www.buildagreenrv.com/mpg-penalty-for-roof-racks-on-camper-vans/|Empirical testing confirms this]].+The biggest determining factor in highway fuel economy for the Transit is roof height and speed; the high and medium roof vans get significantly worse gas mileage than the low roof models (especially at highway speeds). [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/forums/ford-transit-mileage-and-mpgs.234/|Community consensus holds that a stock High Roof van with the Ecoboost engine and RWD will get 20mpg at 55mph, 16mpg at 65mph, and 14mpg at 75mph]].  AWD loses ~1mpg on average. Lift kits and big tires can reduce it further, however the reductions are much less dramatic at lower speeds. 
 + 
 +From 2020 onward, all Transits are equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission that has an extremely deep 10th gear at 0.63:1. This noticeably helps highway mileage.
  
-The biggest determining factor in highway fuel economy for the Transit is roof height and speed; the high and medium roof vans get significantly worse gas mileage than the low roof models (especially at highway speeds). [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/forums/ford-transit-mileage-and-mpgs.234/|Community consensus holds that a stock High Roof van with the Ecoboost engine and RWD will get 20mpg at 55mph, 18mpg at 65mph, and 14mpg at 75mph]].  Adding a roof rack can knock 2-3mpg off of this, and AWD removes another ~1mpg (reports are that the "Eco" mode helps). Lift kits and big tires can reduce it further, however the reductions are much less dramatic at lower speeds.+Roof racks seem to have a significant drag on highway fuel economy, losing 2-3mpg at highway speeds. [[https://www.buildagreenrv.com/mpg-penalty-for-roof-racks-on-camper-vans/|Empirical testing confirms this]].
  
-The Diesel does get noticeably better fuel economy (23mpg+ is widely reported at 65mph), however this is offset by their higher purchase cost, more expensive fuel, and long-term reliability problems that are [[rv:diesel|endemic to all modern diesel engines]].+The Diesel engine does get noticeably better fuel economy (23mpg+ is widely reported at 65mph), however this is offset by their higher purchase cost, more expensive fuel, and long-term reliability problems that are [[rv:diesel|endemic to all modern diesel engines]]
 + 
 +---- 
 + 
 +===== Ordering a brand-new Van ===== 
 + 
 +FULL DISCLOSURE: This section is mostly a rant about one person's experience trying to custom-order a brand new Ford Transit. It is documented here to serve as a warning to others attempting the same thing. 
 + 
 +> //The ordering process for a new van from Ford is a byzantine, stupid, frustrating process that is a shining example of why people hate car companies.// 
 + 
 +> Remember that you can't actually buy a van from Ford; you have to buy it from a dealership, who acts as a middle-man between you and Ford. In the olden-days this was a useful thing, but in the modern era dealers serve no real function aside from [[https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2013/02/12/171814201/episode-435-why-buying-a-car-is-so-awful|needlessly inflating the cost of vehicles]]. But because of this, Ford doesn't need to pay very close attention to their website; Remember that to Ford the website only exists to generate leads and send people to dealerships, where they can (theoretically) place an order. You can't actually buy a van on the website. 
 + 
 +> But because Ford sees the website as little more than a fancy brochure, the website is usually hilariously out of date or incorrect. They didn't even update it for the 2023 Transit until //after the ordering window for the Transit had already closed// for the 2023 model year.  Furthermore, the configuration tool is missing almost all the information you really need to make an informed decision on what you're ordering and will frequently let you "build" a van that isn't actually possible to order due to option incompatibilities or part shortages. 
 + 
 +> What's worse is that most dealerships aren't particularly knowledgeable about the vans either. The Transit is a very complex vehicle that has more options that almost any other vehicle that Ford makes, and most "salespeople" at dealerships are not hired for their technical knowledge. They exist only to push you into financing and [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2LLB9CGfLs|undercoating packages]]. If you have deep technical questions that you need answered, your only realistic chance is finding a dealership who specializes in commercial and fleet sales, or selling to upfitters. In reality, I found it far easier to simply ask people on the Ford Transit Owner forums. 
 + 
 +> To really get useful information on what options are what, you need to  get the Ford Transit Order guide. Googling can find it, it's usually updated pretty often through the model run and ends up posted all over the Ford Transit USA forums. [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/2023-ford-transit-order-guide-and-pricing-sheets-released-today.90355/post-1184045|There's an older version here]].  You'll also want to get your hands on the BEMM, the Body Equipment Mounting Manual, which has a lot of useful information for upfitters and people who are making modifications to the van. Again you'll need to google for it, as it's model-year-specific and changes locations on Ford's website frequently. 
 + 
 +> To make it even worse, many dealerships can't even order new Transits; At the beginning of a model year, Ford makes a guess at how many of each type of vehicle it can build and then splits all of those manufacturing slots between all of its franchisees.  It does this by giving its dealers an "Allocation" of how many of each specific type of vehicle they're allowed to order.  Higher-volume, better performing dealers are usually rewarded with more allocations while problematic dealerships get fewer. Some dealerships that mostly deal in passenger cars and trucks may not get any allocations for Transits at all. (Of course, don't expect the sales people to be honest with you about if they have any allocations. Sometimes they themselves don't actually know; this information is sometimes held closely by the sales managers.) 
 + 
 +> The dealership has to then decide how many of these allocations to use for "stock" vans that they can order to sit on the lots to use for test drives or impulsive buyers, and how many to hold in reserve for people who want to make custom orders. Once these Allocations are all sold to customers, the dealership can still keep placing orders but it has no assurances that it will actually be built. And at least for the 2021/2022/2023 model years, most dealerships completely sold out of allocations for the upcoming model year by the end of September! 
 + 
 +> What this means is that the window for being able to order a van and have some sort of hope that it will actually be built is vanishingly narrow; sometimes only being open for a few weeks per year.  For the 2023 model year the order window opened on August 24th and closed on September 11th; it was open for //just three weeks!// 
 + 
 +> Some of these problems are, in no doubt, due to production limitations brought about by the computer ship shortage and exacerbated by the war in Ukraine; the majority of Ford's wiring harnesses were produced in Ukraine. 
 + 
 +> But because of this, do not expect that ordering a van will be a simple or fast process; many buyers for the 2022 model year waited 9+ months after placing their orders only to be finally told by the dealership that the order had been "Balanced Out"; Ford-speak for "Canceled".
  
 ---- ----
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 **EDIT:** There has been some confusion about exact torque specs for the rotor hub/bolts when it comes to SRW/DRW vans.  Please verify these numbers before attempting your own servicing. **EDIT:** There has been some confusion about exact torque specs for the rotor hub/bolts when it comes to SRW/DRW vans.  Please verify these numbers before attempting your own servicing.
 +
 +==== TPMS Reset ====
 +
 +[[https://seventrumpet.com/reset-ford-transit-tpms-tire-pressure-sensor-light/|How to reset the tire pressure monitoring system.]]
 +
 +==== Power Sliding Door Repairs ====
 +
 +[[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/power-sliding-door-problem.96898/page-2#post-1282217|Experiences on replacing a failed latch]]
  
 ---- ----
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 FarOutRide did an excellent write-up on what the options are for more aggressive off-pavement oriented tires for SRW (Single Rear Wheel) vans: https://faroutride.com/ford-transit-larger-tires-upgrade/ FarOutRide did an excellent write-up on what the options are for more aggressive off-pavement oriented tires for SRW (Single Rear Wheel) vans: https://faroutride.com/ford-transit-larger-tires-upgrade/
  
-For Dual Rear Wheel vans, tire options are even more limited. The factory tire size is narrower than the SRW vans, at 195/75-R16 (RWD) or 205/75-R16 (AWD). Because of this, the front wheel clearance is not a problem but the limiting factor is space between the rear wheels.+For Dual Rear Wheel vans, tire options are even more limited. The factory tire size is narrower than the SRW vans, at 195/75-R16 (RWD) or 205/75-R16 (AWD). Because of this, the front wheel clearance is not a problem but the limiting factor is space between the rear wheels. [[https://www.uswheeladapters.com/shop/transitwheelspacers350hddrw/|Wheel spacers]] can help give more room in between the rear wheels if you do try and run a wider tire.
  
-Groupthink for DRW owners looking for a little more ground clearance, lift and traction off pavement is a **215/85-R16** tire. These are a common light truck tire and have a multitude of options available that have more aggressive tread for off-pavement use. They are significantly taller than stock, and will throw off the speedometer and stock MPG calculator.  Switching the rear end gears to 4.10 (instead of the stock 3.73) will return the final drive ratio to almost identical to factory.+Groupthink for DRW owners looking for a little more ground clearance, lift and traction off pavement is a **215/85-R16** tire. These are a common light truck tire and have a multitude of options available that have more aggressive tread for off-pavement use. They are significantly taller than stock, and will greatly increase the final drive ratio as well as throwing off the speedometer and stock MPG calculator.  Switching the differential gears to **4.10** (instead of the stock **3.73**) will return the final drive ratio to almost identical to factory, and should make the speedo and MPG-meter accurate again. 
 + 
 +Owners have reported mixed results with these tire sizes, with some fitting acceptably and some not.  Some owners have reported that the **Toyo Open Country A/T III** or the **Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac** both run slightly narrow, which is advantageous for fitting the DRW rims. [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/drw-tire-sizes-that-fit.19082/|This thread]] and [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/upgrade-tires-on-2015-transit-350-drw.54986/|this other thread]] on the Ford Transit Forums have more information, as well as pictures from owners. 
 + 
 +One of the only aftermarket wheels available for DRW vans is the Method MR901. See [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/falken-wildpeak-at4w-on-transit-drw.98082/|this thread for info and pics]].
  
-Owners have reported mixed results with these tire sizes, with some fitting acceptably and some not.  Some owners have reported that the **Toyo Open Country A/T III** or the **Firestone Transforce A/T 2** both run slightly narrow, which is advantageous for fitting the DRW rims. [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/drw-tire-sizes-that-fit.19082/|This thread]] and [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/upgrade-tires-on-2015-transit-350-drw.54986/|this other thread]] on the Ford Transit Forums have more information, as well as pictures from owners. 
  
 ==== Lifting ==== ==== Lifting ====
  
-The AWD Ford Transit cannot be lifted very much. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFWNUXhv3aw|Van Compass has a good technical overview of exactly why]], but the quick answer is that the CV joint of the passenger side front axle is extremely short and will start to bind when it is moved out of its intended range. This can lead to early (and very expensive) [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/2020-ford-transit-awd-lift-kit-question.81988/post-1067274|failures of the passenger side CV joint]]. The best way to lift an AWD van is with a Subframe Drop.+The AWD Ford Transit cannot be lifted very much. [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFWNUXhv3aw|Van Compass has a good technical overview of exactly why]], but the quick answer is that the CV joint of the passenger side front axle is extremely short and will start to bind when it is moved out of its intended range. This can lead to early (and very expensive) [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/2020-ford-transit-awd-lift-kit-question.81988/post-1067274|failures of the passenger side CV joint]]. Even if the joint is okay, there's some speculation that the boot being constantly flexed closer to the limits of its tolerances [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/inner-cv-boot-damage-susceptibility-upgrades-front-axle-diff-lubricants.89489/#post-1171421|may also lead to early failures]]. The best way to lift an AWD van is with a Subframe Drop, as it mostly eliminates the worries over the CV joint/boot. 
 + 
 +Beginning with the 2023 model year, Ford began offering the "Trail" package on the Transit, which comes with a 3.5" lift and larger tires from the factory. It is only available on AWD vans, and adds $10,000 to the base price.
  
 The RWD Transit offers more options.  There are four different methods of accomplishing a lift, with [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/my-two-cents-on-lift-kits.86177/|varying levels of reliability]].  The RWD Transit offers more options.  There are four different methods of accomplishing a lift, with [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/my-two-cents-on-lift-kits.86177/|varying levels of reliability]]. 
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   * **Lift Spindles**   * **Lift Spindles**
   * Cost: [[https://weldtecdesigns.com/product/wtd-ford-transit-3-suspension-kit-mojave/|$2,500]] + Installation   * Cost: [[https://weldtecdesigns.com/product/wtd-ford-transit-3-suspension-kit-mojave/|$2,500]] + Installation
-  * Pros: Largest possible lift. Raises the van 3", and can be combined with replacement control arms to give a total of **5" of lift**.  Maintains proper geometry. Allows fitment of very large tires. +  * Pros: Largest possible lift, gives maximum clearance in between the front wheels. Raises the van by 3", and can be combined with replacement control arms to give a total of **5" of lift**.  Maintains proper geometry. Allows fitment of very large tires. 
-  * Cons: Relatively new and untested((available for pre-order as of this writing, MFR claims shipping in March 2022)) Requires swapping out the ball joints, adding additional cost and difficulty to installation.+  * Cons: Expensive. Requires swapping out the ball joints, adding additional cost and difficulty to installation.
   * Cannot be installed on AWD vans   * Cannot be installed on AWD vans
  
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 Windows are a //huge// source of heat loss or heat gain in the summer.  If you're adding windows to your van, make sure you also invest in some kind of shades or covers for them.  [[hvac:insulation|Some links are here]]. Windows are a //huge// source of heat loss or heat gain in the summer.  If you're adding windows to your van, make sure you also invest in some kind of shades or covers for them.  [[hvac:insulation|Some links are here]].
  
-**Replacing factory windows is best done professionally.** The factory windows are glued in, making them extremely difficult to remove without specialized tools and solvents.  Installation of aftermarket windows into cargo vans without factory windows is similar in difficulty to installing a roof vent (probably easier as you don't have to climb up onto the roof) and can be DIYed.+**Replacing factory windows is a pain in the butt.** The factory windows are glued in, making them difficult to remove without scratching up the paint. Some people find it easier to simply break the factory windows (covering them with sticky tape first to minimize the mess), but using an oscillating saw and wire cutting kit it is possible to get them out intact.  [[https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=PcJTtMBqoqY|See this old video from Mercedes on how]]. Alternately, professional shops will usually swap customer-provided windows in for ~$200 each. 
 + 
 +Installation of aftermarket windows into cargo vans without factory windows is similar in difficulty to installing a roof vent (probably easier as you don't have to climb up onto the roof) and can be DIYed.
  
 If you are adding windows to get some additional ventilation, one option is to install the factory Ford windows from prior model years. From 2015-2019, pop-out windows were offered as an option from the factory on the window in the sliding door, behind the driver, and in the rear quarter-panel windows for the Extended-length body. This option was removed for model year 2020. ((Speculation being it was due to high breakage rates for the window latching mechanism. Seems to be the Ford way. Rather than fix something, just remove it.)) But there have been no changes in the Transit's body around the windows since it was introduce in 2015, so a pop-out window from any model year should fit into any van.  You can see about finding one from a scrapyard, or ordering a new window through a dealer.  [[https://parts.ford.com/shop/en/us/body/glass-windows-and-related-components|Part numbers can be found here]]. Pay attention to the color, "Privacy Glass" means the Dark Grey Tint. If you are adding windows to get some additional ventilation, one option is to install the factory Ford windows from prior model years. From 2015-2019, pop-out windows were offered as an option from the factory on the window in the sliding door, behind the driver, and in the rear quarter-panel windows for the Extended-length body. This option was removed for model year 2020. ((Speculation being it was due to high breakage rates for the window latching mechanism. Seems to be the Ford way. Rather than fix something, just remove it.)) But there have been no changes in the Transit's body around the windows since it was introduce in 2015, so a pop-out window from any model year should fit into any van.  You can see about finding one from a scrapyard, or ordering a new window through a dealer.  [[https://parts.ford.com/shop/en/us/body/glass-windows-and-related-components|Part numbers can be found here]]. Pay attention to the color, "Privacy Glass" means the Dark Grey Tint.
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 ==== Aux heater/Fuel Line ==== ==== Aux heater/Fuel Line ====
  
-While Ford does offer the factory option of an auxiliary fuel line pick up intended for use by aftermarket devices that need to draw fuel from the gas tank, this line is too wide to be used with low flowing devices such as auxiliary heating units. +While Ford does offer the factory option of an auxiliary fuel line pick up intended for use by aftermarket devices that need to draw fuel from the gas tank, this line is too wide to be used with low flowing devices such as [[hvac:heating|auxiliary heating units]]
  
 Instructions for removal of the tank and sender for installation of a smaller line can be found here: https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/espar-m2-b4l-transit-install-standpipe-install-webasto-vs-espar.88175/ Instructions for removal of the tank and sender for installation of a smaller line can be found here: https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/espar-m2-b4l-transit-install-standpipe-install-webasto-vs-espar.88175/
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 ==== Rear Sway Bar ==== ==== Rear Sway Bar ====
  
-The passenger vans come with rear sway bars, but the cargo vans usually don't.  Adding the sway bar on the cargo vans isn't difficult, but is made much easier with a lift.  The following parts will be needed:+The passenger vans and all dual-rear-wheel vans come with rear sway bars, but the single-rear-wheel cargo and crew vans don't. Sway bars fight the tendency of the rear wheels to move independently of each other, and prevents the van from leaning as much in corners.  This leads to much more stable handling on pavement, at the expense of a rougher ride off pavement. 
 + 
 +Adding a sway bar isn't difficult, but is made much easier with a lift.  The following parts will be needed:
  
  
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 [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/installing-a-rear-sway-bar-for-a-2021-hr-extended-cargo-van.86568/|Thread with info is here.]] [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/installing-a-rear-sway-bar-for-a-2021-hr-extended-cargo-van.86568/|Thread with info is here.]]
 +
 +[[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/factory-sway-bar-install.91866/|Another good thread here]]
 ==== 4-wheel-drive ==== ==== 4-wheel-drive ====
  
-4-wheel-drive conversions are offered by [[https://quadvan.com/|Quadvan]] or [[https://www.quigley4x4.com/products/ford-transit/|Quigly Vans]]. The Quigly 4WD system has been approved by Ford, and if installed when new Ford will honor the full factory warranty on all non-Quigly components of your van. Expect to pay ~$15,000 to have a stock RWD van converted to 4-wheel-drive.+4-wheel-drive conversions are offered by [[https://quadvan.com/|Quadvan]] or [[https://www.quigley4x4.com/products/ford-transit/|Quigly Vans]] on 2019 and earlier TransitsThey cannot be fit to the 2020 and newer vans, as the 10-speed transmission doesn't give enough room for a proper transfer case. 
 + 
 +Expect to pay $15-25,000 to have a stock RWD van converted to 4-wheel-drive.
  
 ==== Other Modifications ==== ==== Other Modifications ====
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 ===== Quirks ===== ===== Quirks =====
  
-Sections of the van body above the doors (and parts of the chassis) are made from boron steel, which is incredibly strong and nearly impossible to drill into. Unless you have a lot of patience and some very specialized drill bits, it's best to avoid trying to drill into these sections.+Sections of the van body above the doors (and parts of the chassis) are made from boron steel, which is incredibly strong and difficult to drill into. Unless you have a lot of patience and some very specialized drill bits((Cobalt drill bits are a good start)), it's best to avoid trying to drill into these sections.
  
 {{ :rv:boron.png?600 |}} {{ :rv:boron.png?600 |}}
 //From the BEMM (Body Equipment Mounting Manual)// //From the BEMM (Body Equipment Mounting Manual)//
 +
 +The Transit is uni-body, meaning that not all frame/body locations have a reliable and solid path back to a ground.  Trying to source a ground from random places on the van can lead to strange electrical problems that are a nightmare to resolve.
 +
 +To avoid these problems, always use one of the grounding points as supplied and recommended by Ford:
 +
 +{{ :rv:ground_points.png?nolink&600 |}}
 +
 +Other quirks:
  
   * The brake pedal is ~2" higher than the gas pedal.  Owners report it feels weird at first but they get used to it.   * The brake pedal is ~2" higher than the gas pedal.  Owners report it feels weird at first but they get used to it.
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   * The High Roof model is //really freaking tall// at 9'3" in factory spec.     * The High Roof model is //really freaking tall// at 9'3" in factory spec.  
     * This is too tall to fit through most drive throughs. Vans with damages to the front roof line are common due to people smacking them into stuff; make sure to inspect this area very carefully when buying a used van to check for evidence of repairs.     * This is too tall to fit through most drive throughs. Vans with damages to the front roof line are common due to people smacking them into stuff; make sure to inspect this area very carefully when buying a used van to check for evidence of repairs.
 +  * 
 +  * The Transit Trail (available from 2023 onwards) is electronically speed limited to 81mph
 +    * This is due to the factory 3.5" lift and off-road oriented tires.
   *    * 
   * The vans have a high parasitic draw, Ford claims 50ma but some have measured higher.     * The vans have a high parasitic draw, Ford claims 50ma but some have measured higher.  
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   * The Power Sliding Door will not operate if the vehicle battery level drops below ~80% and the van is not running.    * The Power Sliding Door will not operate if the vehicle battery level drops below ~80% and the van is not running. 
     * This is fairly easy to achieve as the door takes a lot of power, and some owners have reported that it will drain the battery to this level after as few as ~10 cycles with the engine off. Therefor it is //highly// recommended that owners ordering a van with a power sliding door should also order the dual battery option.     * This is fairly easy to achieve as the door takes a lot of power, and some owners have reported that it will drain the battery to this level after as few as ~10 cycles with the engine off. Therefor it is //highly// recommended that owners ordering a van with a power sliding door should also order the dual battery option.
 +  * 
 +  * "The Blobs"
 +    * There are two large black "blobs" of Styrofoam at the front upper corners of the cargo area, in between the metal body of the van and the cab headliner. Ford uses some pretty strong language in the BEMM that these blocks are not to be modified without prior written permission from Ford; speculation is that they are critical in making sure that the side curtain airbags deploy properly. Many owners cut or modify them as part of their build, and some RV manufacturers (such as Winnebago) remove them completely. 
 +    * [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/cutting-trimming-the-foam-blobs.57273/|Discussion thread is here.]]
 +  * Body Panels aren't attached to the interior in some places
 +    * Some of the sheet metal braces between the interior walls and the exterior shell will separate, [[https://youtu.be/jjrYs3_kOfk|as seen in this video]]. 
 +    * Not actually a problem. These braces are not intended to be welded, they provide stiffness only with pressure against the exterior skin and the glue is there only to hold on the sections of foam rubber that prevents the braces from rubbing a hole in the exterior shell. 
 +    * This looseness is intentional, as it allows for thermal expansion/contraction of the skin separate from the interior structural framing.  [[https://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/threads/interior-wall-strength-and-your-safety.19994/|Discussion thread here]].
 +
 +
  
  
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-===== further reading =====+===== Further reading =====
   * [[http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/|Ford Transit USA forum]]   * [[http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/|Ford Transit USA forum]]
   * https://www.faroutride.com   * https://www.faroutride.com
 +  * [[https://madocumentupload.marketingassociates.com/api/Document/GetFile?v1=6477244&v2=111221115635&v3=60&v4=3f4e613b367cff34a245660a846229f3535335d18baf354cbacd2af9&v5=False|Ford Transit BEMM (Body Equipment Mounting Manual)]]
rv/ford_transit.1648502562.txt.gz · Last modified: 2022/03/28 17:22 by princess_fluffypants