There are many different things to consider when buying a van to have it converted to 4x4.
All of our vans get converted to 1 ton. So if you can find a van that is already 1 ton (ie chevy 3500 or Ford E350) then it will be less expensive. Some of the Chevy 2500HD models will come with a heavy duty rear axle as well.
Although we do convert the 1/2 and 3/4 ton as well it is just a little more expensive and time consuming.
Gearing:
If you do find a 1 ton van check to see what gear ratio it has. The gear ratio is determined by what exactly you are going to use the van for. For example, if your going to be using it more in the mountains and hauling a good load with it, both inside or outside (trailer), then it might be better to go with a 4:10 gear. That is typically what we put in since it pulls well, and also works well on the highway. If you were going to do more highway travel then maybe at 3:73 would work better. So, it just depends on what it's main functions will be. We can also re-gear the rear if you find a van you like but without the gear ratio you would need. We can also install any locker combination that you might need.
Motor:
That is also true for which motor you choose. You want to make sure that it will have the power and durability to run the conversion wherever you want to go.
Slider door vs. Barn doors:
One important thing is that it has SIDE BARN DOORS! The vans with the slider door will not open all the way with the lift and larger tires mounted. However, if it a special independant conversion we may be able to get by with the slider, but it truly depends on the build.
With that said, those are really the only things that can make a big difference when building this type of van.
Keep in mind that we have the ability to build virtually any vehicle however you desire! There are always more options!
