So, how much do all these mods add up to ? Spoiler: no idea, it's all fudge !
As
the vehicle registration required a certified weight check, it
provided an opportunity to get an idea where things were heading.
But, since the van's weight was not measured before the conversion, it is impossible to know for sure.
So we'll use Ford's 'base curb weight' as a proxy. Specs for the Ford Transit 250 High roof, 148" wheelbase, RWD, 3.5L PFDI model:
- Base curb weight: 5330lbs
- GVWR: 9070lbs
- Max payload: 3680lbs
However, that does not include the options
this van came with: engine block heater, reverse sensing, powered
mirrors, fog lamps, load area & vinyl floor protection package.
The weight came out at 7520lbs
(3400kg). With a full tank of gas, in line with Ford's definition of
'curb weight'. It also includes the bike tray + dining module (i.e.
'summer' mode), but still misses: potable water, bed mattress, upper
cabinets, PV solar roof.
That gives us a guesstimate of 7520 -5330 -100= ~2100lbs (950kg), assuming ~100lbs for the Ford options (measured 90 just for the protection package). Plus 300lbs in winter when the 2nd battery tray is in.
Fan de chichourle, heavier than a Smart ForTwo car... On the chubby side ? You decide !
I'm surprised. Expected ~1500lbs. A lot of care, for instance, went into using the lightest plywood type and thickness for each piece. The much heavier birch plywood was picked only where necessary.
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| "Who are you calling fat ?" (from Asterix And The Banquet) |
I'm surprised. Expected ~1500lbs. A lot of care, for instance, went into using the lightest plywood type and thickness for each piece. The much heavier birch plywood was picked only where necessary.
Doubting this van's original curb weight... Should definitely have weighed The Whale at the start.
The heaviest single items are: half battery pack 300lbs, 5mm vinyl tiles 70lbs, fridge 70lbs, seat swivels (pair) 60lbs, air conditioner 43lbs, inverter/charger 40lbs, windows' glass.
The heaviest assemblies
likely are: PV solar roof (not in yet), floor rails +subfloor +tiles,
mobile bed, sink-shower-toilet cabinet with 500lbs-rated slides.
Now, the good news is that there is still a 1550lbs margin before hitting GVWR (minus coming solar roof). Neat, how many Ski-Doos can we load up ? 😂
So how does it drive now, with all this weight ?
Haven't tested it on highways yet, but in the city acceleration feels less responsive than before. This said, the 10 speed gearbox still does a stellar job at making the engine feel peppy.
Leaning in curves is still very limited, but will get much worse when the solar roof is in.
Now, having the battery box over the rear axle provides so much more traction on loose surfaces. Winner !
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>>> next post: Teaser - 1st time interior assembly
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