Get your tickets today to win Bob's van. Your contribution will go to help people in need within the mobile community. howa.rallyup.com/bobsvan BOB WELLS -- CheapRVLiving owner, Homes On Wheels Alliance (HOWA) co-founder/president, and co-star in the Oscar-winning Nomadland movie -- has donated his van to HOWA to raise funds to assist nomads in need.
Retired Paramedic here. Type 1 is on a pickup frame and usually doesn’t have walk through from cab to box. Type 2 is a van with a raised roof. Type 3 is usually a dually van chassis with a box on the back and walkthrough. The nomenclature isn’t important though. Terrific video Bob! Remember, with newer diesels, you may need def. The older rigs had extremely oversized alternators that are expensive to fix. The boxes have wiring for all the interior lights, touch screens, suction, radios. It’s not a simple module. You most likely will need to block out or change the lenses on the emergency lights depending on the state.
Former Medic here. Your comment is right on the dime. Thanks. I have a type 1 decommissioned F350 6.0 that rocks. I named the cab Beastie and the ambu box Robin's Nest (after a cherished gf).
Any idea where I can find insurance. Or what it is I have to do to get a used ambulance insured. Progressive (the conversion go to, says no) I feel like I have called everyone.
Love ambos. They have so many built-in cabinets overhead already. And, when you walk in, most have a place on the right where oxygen was and behind that, you can use as a closet. Can't wait to see the inside.
With all the interviews you do I’ve been wondering why you didn’t get more space sooner. This is exciting you deserve to be as comfortable as possible in your journey!
After 12+ months of research & thought, I’ve decided on one as well - for all of the reasons you note. But adding in, they’re not just well-built, they are maintained while in service.
I used to work on the local ambulances. they were built on a 5 ton chassis. I was really attracted to how robust the electrical system was, they're basically a miniature power plant on wheels.
Congrats Bob! I am sooo happy for you. You give and give of yourself... for YEARS! Have fun and enjoy and I can hardly wait to watch your videos of the build.
Bob...thanks for everything you do to help us all prepare. As we speak, there are climate emergency refugees on the move, and your videos help remind us to have our cars, vans, trucks, rv's, buses, and trailers prepped. The videos I'm seeing with interviews with people who have prepped (even with bags and a toilet pale) are more at ease than those who just had to run our the door with no prep. Thanks for what you have and are doing.
You are so right about how personal a choice the rig is. I never cease to be amazed at the individuality people bring to their rigs. I once saw a shuttle bus where the woman had a hammock hanging from the ceiling and that was her bed. Just amazing what people come up with. Besides all your personal reasons for choosing an ambulance, I think it is appropriate because you are such a life saver!! Ha, ha. : )
I have been in municipal equipment repair, maintenance, and replacement my entire career. During that time I have maintained and purchased dozens of ambulances of various ambulance manufacturers. You are absolutely correct in stating that an ambulance is a quality built product, even more so than a school bus. Question: what is the make of your ambulance? I have been to ambulance manufacturers facilities in Kansas, Indiana and 'Florida and found them all to be top notch builders. When you consider that an ambulance is a mobile ER the quality and durability HAS to be there, no ifs ands or buts about it, no compromise allowed.
Looks like Bobs new ambulance is a Wheeled Coach GSA edition. I sold Wheeled Coach for a few years and they build a very strong box at their plant near Orlando, FL.
I've got an ambulance also. It's a 1991 E350 diesel 2wd, with a MedTech box on the back. It's my daily driver, but I can use it for camping too. I would buy one again in a heartbeat.
@@sa78247 I appreciate your information. Where do I look at an ambulance? Make/model/type/. I have no idea where to start but it sounds like this would be something I would look for as a solo female driver. Of course I would like to add all the bells and whistle‘s and I don’t like driving in mountains without good brakes and a good transmission that will slow me down on its own like Cummings or Allison. Can you part with some tips? I sure would appreciate it. Oh and what can I expect pricewise?
OMGosh! I needed to see this video. I converted a school bus with the soul reason to get into nature. It's too big. I am now converting a tiny transit connect to live in while I sell the skoolie. Wasn't sure which way to go after that UNTIL NOW! I will be buying an ambulance! Thanks Bob!
Hi bob your lance is super. But i didnt catch your thoughts on a step van. The big one. The size of a ups truck.or a small one I thought about a step van What is your thoughts on that . thank ypu.
Bob, I love your honesty and straight-forwardness! I watch vlogs where people move into RVs to live full time and I wonder how they can afford to keep purchasing as their "crap boxes" fall apart! You're a peach 🍑!!
Good on you, Bob, for attending to your needs and thank you for explaining your rationale so well - you're right, an ambulance might not be the right choice for everyone. Enjoy the new spaciousness and the settling in. Cheers!
Hi bob and cody the showman. Congrats on your new office . gotta a name for him. Call him lance or big red. Love the color. If you have to change it a egg shell white. Or. Plain white. Would be nice. Cant wait until you do a video after you complete everything to show. Love you mom and cody. Thank you for everything. You are amazing.
Glad you mentioned the tires. I met a guy with a Ford F450 who was trying to change a tire and it must have weighed over 100 lbs. And if it happens to be the inside tire on the rear that means you have two tires to deal with.
I'm so happy for you... that you've found a vehicle that's gonna work best...I'm just so happy for you... I love listening to you... I love your UA-cam channel...I thank you so much... I've learned so much through you...THANK YOU.
At my apartment, when an ambulance shows up everyone runs to see who is in trouble, I am staring at the vehicle and drooling over the compartments etc, lol. Good for you and hope to see a tour 💚🇨🇦
I’ve been living in my 4x4 Ambulance conversion off and on for 3 years now and love it! Same year and exact same body as Bob’s. Super reliable and well built vehicles. My only complaint is they bounce like crazy when towing anything on interstates.
Hiding in plain sight. We had ambulances in service like these parking around the shaded area of the cities all day and nights too. They can park about anywhere w/o anyone complaining.
Or he want to help every-body, who is knocking at the door: drunken guys, confused people, helpless homeless . . . and he ' s the doc, studied by life !
Congratulations Bob! How awesome you are donating your old van and it will make a future nomad very happy. I know you will retrofit your ambulance to be perfect for you!
you are honestly, an amazing guy, i love how you said its everyones personal choice and everyone is different and its not right or wrong for anyone of us. thank you so much for your words it helps nd is just awesome. i dont have enough words it spoke to my heart.
Awesome new ride! Just watched the new movie nomadland and your performance brought me to tears. You are such an amazing person! Thanks for all you do.
Nobody can ever say that you are not a kind, generous caring person..not many would donate a full size cargo van like your's with a value of at least $15K in this market plus..You could have sold it and added to your nest egg which at your age nobody ever has enough really but you helped another person out..kudos to Bob Wells for being such a great guy and friend to the Nomad Community!
An ambulance is the way this 71 y.o. single woman went, but strictly for convenience. And I followed one of your interviews to Arizona. Couldn't be happier! I know you'll love it!
Just bought a 2005 e450, type3. It's replacing the 2011 e450 shuttle bus, that got crushed by a tree. The ambulance needs a motor, and tires. Luck would have it, I happen to have both.. 😆. The tree only hit one solar panel, and my maxxair 7500. I've already replaced them. The ambulance is a far superior platform, even if I can't stand up in it. But, I'm 6'4" tall, so, it's to be expected.
"Seasons" change as well....as we "mature", our needs/desires may facilitate some modifications in our home and/or transportation. Very few ever live/drive in the same home/vehicle forever....evolution is inevitable 🤓
I'm more of an outer town kinda guy. Not in "nature" but not in a city and close enough to both that I can do what I need to and not have to worry as much about stealth
That's the best way to go for me too. Some cities have large open lots and waterways also where you can have a makeshift camp and have the vehicle parked 5 or 10 minutes away on the street. A small tent, a gallon of water, a propane stove etc. can be moved in one or two trips. Easy.
Same here for me to. In the. Suberbs.for living. Its hard to find here in dallas irving texas areas. The rent here Is getting to expensive for anyone. Its a rat race here. Within 2 yrs. If my husband doesnt find work. We will be homeless. We have a small car. Have to live in a tent. The car is used for storage only. Cant carry no more than 600 lbs. Body weight included. So. The car has a 1.7 engine . 2019 mitsubishi g.4. Mirage. Still making car payments. Car ins. To. Both takes half my check. Im on soc. Sec. Cant go back to work. Everybody is doing the same work as my husband. Also nobody is hiring. He has plenty of tools. A 15 drawer tool chest and 7 bags of tools. 2500.00 worth of tools. So we cannot fit everything in the car. So we need something bigger. Thought about buying a school bus to live in it and room for the tools. Where do you buy a school bus and who will work on them. I want a chevy gmc.
@@janchapman3746 School busses are where you find them. They are hard to get rid of. Find the right one and you just might be paid to take it. Bus Mechanic: That would be you. Think of it as a big pickup truck. You know how to keep a pickup truck running, don't you ?
We have a 36’ 2003 Pace Arrow.. we sold our big house a year ago, and we live debt free... My Bob and I have been married 29 years and we love our RV home... It’s comfortable. We chase weather between Az and South Idaho.. So happy for you Bob. Thank you for sharing your life. For all you give to others.
I looked at retired ambulances during my search, because I volunteered as an EMT for a few years, so I'm familiar with the platform and layout. At the time I did not consider the advantages that a 4x4 ambulance might offer. Nice find, though with no direct access between the living area and the cab, it might be difficult to get underway if you need to leave in a hurry.
Great video man, great info. I think Class I is a truck front end with the Body added, Class II is the Single wheel van with a high top, Class III is dually cutaway van (so 350, 450), then Class IV is the bigger medium duty trucks.
Seems the perfect choice for you Bob! We have a tree service business. My husband has a 2018 RAM 5500 (4WD/dulee/2 tons). We pay $4,700 a year for commercial insurance on this truck in California. My husband has been in business over 30 years, no accidents, is a licensed contractor. This insurance has gone up every year for 3 years. So good advice Bob, CHECK FOR INSURANCE FIRST! Can’t wait to see the inside of your new rig!
@@ronnieguitar99 , he once said he keeps his rig a mess and will never show it. I was hoping moving to a bigger space that would of changed. Would really like to see how a full time business person sets up everything. We will never know.
@@ronnieguitar99 you need to learn the basics first. Then gracefully ask with intelligent questions, after doing some research. Van dwellers are very creative and not spoon fed.
What can one say except, Congratulations! On your new home, looks like a winner for sure. Plus with all the bug money you are making this vehicle can substitute for a Wells Fargo safety deposit Box. Good luck on your new journey!
Great video! I have been looking for an ambulance for a few months and the prices are going up. But the reasons you mentioned why you want one are as important as why it might not work for someone. Thanks Bob and good luck. Can’t wait for the tour video.
@@misstbikini They do, but they run through the engine coolant system so only work when the engine is running. Most buyers rip those out and install separate systems.
@@misstbikini there is a regular heating and ac system that only works when the engine is running. Most will eventually add a dry heat source and a small ac.
Congratulations on your new home Bob... I think it was a smart purchase. We have a flimsy fifth wheel... I'd love to get a medium-sized schooly. 👍👍👍👍👍😁
Love you Bob, Congratulations on the New Home, it's Sweet!! I hope you will share a inside tour at some point, I have a big Genesis school bus built out, Love it but cost WAY to much to travel in, some day I'd Love to have a ambulance, love All you do to help others, you inspire us all to be better people, and help others!! Nothing but love for you from Ky.
Love it! And I also love your emphasis that everyone’s needs are unique and you need to pick the right vehicle for you. We spent many months researching vehicles until we finally landed on a Honda Pilot AWD SUV and we love it! All the time spent researching was worth it.
I looked into one a couple years back but couldn’t find much about conversion, so I chickened out. Maybe I will take another look!!!!! You’re the best!!!
Top vehicles sell fast. The price goes up. Cant figure out why prices sky rocket up at a time like this. People is homeless. The pandemic is not over yet. People is taking there last dollar to by a home. The prices go up on everything. Gas is up. Buy it now. There are estimated 650.000 people homeless and rising. I just dont understand. Lets all pray for everyone. I do. Thank jesus daily for what we have today. We thank him for what he did on the cross for us. I do. Life is to short. We have only one life to live. Jesus will make a way for everyone. We trust. We believe. We have faith in jesus. We give him all the praise and glory. We all will make it through this hard time. Just pray and pray and pray where ever you are. Whatever we all do.dont ever give up.there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. Follow the light. Jesus is the light and the way. Thank you. Love you all. The government controls sll of our lives daily. They are at fault of the pandemic and everything else. They are never prepared for anything. Misery loves company. So we all need to pray for them to bring back all jobs. And businesses to for the usa. Leave the jobs there in other countries for there people. We need all the businesses back at home. Pay checks should meet better than the cost of living. The rich people depend on us poor people to do all the dirty work for them. But they dont like to pay. They need to do the work themselves. See how it feels. Let them be homeless for a month. No job. No money. No food. No cell phones. No place to go No family or friends or neighbors help. No house. Just the steets. I wonder how they would feel then. Add all the rich pastors of churches to. The rich ones. They keep crying tp take peoples money for parties and pay days.load up there bank accts. With another million or two every month. They never say stop. Put the money in the plate. Buying music. Etc. They never say anything to help the poor. They never donate to the major charrities. If they do. Its a tax write off.there are some good preachers or pastors out there. Where are they.who are they. The usa is in a big fat mess.why is china making all the vehicle parts and cars on every vehicle.china makes everything. Ehere is our jobs.look where our clothes is made. My clothes is awful. They wont fit right. Everything wears out by the year. Its only for business.gotta keep buying and buying and buying. Vehicles to. The more cars gets stollen and more accidents. The state. Makes more money. Everyone needs a car. Say that 2 million cars gets stollen a year just in texas. Thats 2 million license plates to sell plus inspections. Car insurances rip everyone off.outrageous prices. Its a money making racket. We dont make enough money to keep up with this kind of foolishness. Oh.yeah. the prices of cars to is a mess. They are stealing money from us all. To them we pay very close to sticker price. Knock off for the car wash destination charges a few other things.go on line at maybe car fax.com maybe it will tell you the price you will pay below msrp. Price. Ask sales what will the base price be. Type in the vin number on the website to. If the sales person wont tell you then walk out.if you get 4000.00 off. Sticker price or more. You will definately have a good deal.also get all rebates of everything. If you are buying a truck or van go to the fleet dept. Get a better deal. A lot of dealerships is crooks. I have been ripped off a lot myself. Nobody to help me. I learned the hard way.finally i had a friend at work years later to help. Oh. Rember the bombing at pearl harbor. The japans said they did not know the usa was in that certain area at pearl harbor. They bombed us. Now japan is making mega monies off of us here in the usa. In 1984 i bought a toyota pick up. A tacoma. In 1986 i was on my way to do laundry. The thought hit me about history. I thought why didnt i think of history before i bought this truck. After i finished the laundry. I called the salesman and told him i needed a different truck. I told him the history of palm harbor. He wanted to help me but i was in a upside down. Situation. So i went to a ford dealership. I again told the history. The salesman said i owed to much to trade. I told him i wanted a ranger. Stick shift. Plain and simple. I told him i. Will never buy a car from the enemy that did such cowardly evil actions to bomb us at pearl harbor.i left the ford dealer with a new ranger pick up. So now the usa is selling japans toyotas. Like crazy. So japan is only here for the business. Maybe to get all our bennefits to.soc. sec. Etc. What about germany. Hitler. Volkswagons is here to.so where is our own chevy and ford factories back here in the usa. Also. All. Of everything the usa ever made needs to come back home where they belong. Send back everything to china and germany. And anything to everybody else. They need to buy from us everything they need. So our government is stupid. This is why the usa is im such a big fat mess.. And other things to add. Well thats a story for now of a reason for. The homeless and job loss.our government has got no. Excuse of the way they treat us. With just two moves the government could make would bring the usa back to life for joy and happiness.plenty of jobs. People back in homes prices low or salaries up to meet the cost of living. Etc. Well there is hope. We never give. Keep on keeping on moving forward. Love you all . many blessings. God bless america. Thank you. Jan from texas
I was in a 1994 Dodge Dakota with two senior pups for 1.5 years. I took out the front passenger seat for sleeping space, all my stuff in the truck bed with scrap wood panels for walls and a spider net for a cover back there. Your crown can definitely house you comfortably!
@@copcuffs9973 can you send me the link to the video showing how he had his crown Victoria set up. I don't want to take out the seats and distroy the cars resale value. Mine is a police intercept crown Victorian, a retired county car from Sacramento so the back seats do not fold down or come out without destroying it. Because it only has about a hundred and thirty-five thousand miles on it I don't want to do that. I know I can set up a mattress in the back seat and put totes on the floor of the back seat to help support the mattress and still be able to get to the totes. Plus because it's an old police cruiser type of vehicle I have a huge trunk but I can put things in. Right now I'm going through the process of going through everything I own and selling or giving away things that I don't need and getting a closet storage unit for the things I need to keep like my hospital bed and if I could get one of those foldable all terrain electric wheelchairs that only weigh 50 lb then I could give my current electric wheelchair to somebody who needs it that is not doing a tiny house on wheels, but unfortunately those foldable electric wheelchairs that only weigh 50 lb and fold up to the size of a suitcase pause between 2 and 4 grand and insurance does not pay for them. I do have a foldable manual wheelchair that only takes the space of one passenger but cannot push it for very far or on rough terrain. I can walk for short distances using a Canadian crutch or Walker. Still trying to work out the logistics on how to set it up where I have what I need until I can save for a van or a used ambulance which would be perfect for me. Thank you for the input, I need to get out of sticks and bricks because it is destroying my health both physically and emotionally.
Hi georgeous. You definately can live in your crown vic. Just minimize just what you need from home. Sell or donate the rest and you are good to go. Also. If you havent used anything in 3 or 5 yrs. You will not use it anytime soon. Get rid of it. Including clothes and shoes. Keep the very newest things. So get rid of anytging else. You will be glad you did. A big fan of bobs and the nomad life. Tell everyone you are only on vacation. So dont tell them about your dream plans. You will only here the negstive stuff. Move forward with jesus. Pray for everything. Jesus. Is with you always. Dont let anyone stop you. I pray for everyone and you to. I dont leave anyone out of my prayers daily. Happy vacation. Just get out there and do it for yourself. You go girl.
Neat ride, but I think you should repaint the outside. Keeping the ambulance look might get you in trouble (I'm probably wrong, but you never know) . It looks like you're working on it at the moment, but I hope you'll have a tour inside soon. Congratulations Bob!
My ambulance looks exactly the same and I find that people are more courteous on the road. And not one parking ticket! Lol 😝 I’m enjoying the advantage of the fact people like red trucks am I ?
@@robertdragoff6909 yea here in California you can own an ambulance with the paint and lights still on the vehicle. Your just not supposed to use them on the public streets. But the gov sells them to you just as is. They just remove the county or other gov logos .. I bought mine and it still displays Fire Dept. & Paramedic ... nothing illegal about that. Reminds me of an old Hot Wheels Fire Ambulance 🚑 .. lol I’m enjoying the build and the quality structure..
I love my ambulance to . A 1991 Ford E- 350 van with diesel engine for that year . It can get up to 25 miles to the gallon if need be . My Ambulance hasn't run since 2013 but I still live in it using shore power
Cool!! I also just bought a 1991 Ford e350 7.3 IDI (no turbo) and have been loving it so far. Are you really seeing that kind of mileage? I’ve only filled up a few times, but am concerned that I’m so far averaging 10-12mpg combined.. my fuel tank float is also stuck, so I’ve just been topping off every 200 miles.
I never thought I would see you in anything besides a van. My jaw dropped when I saw the title and thumbnail, you AND Van City Van Life are going ambulance. Love you both. Whatever makes you happy Mr Bob. You deserve to get what you want, that's for sure. 💙
Congrats Bob, I think an ambulance is perfect for you in a metaphoric way too... you are focused on 'saving' people by helping them learn to live cheaper, more simply, and with nomadic freedom. I can't think of a better way for someone like you to travel than in the ultimate 'rescue' vehicle!
I had an ambulance for work years ago(carpet installer)it was great for work but for living in, there is alot of wasted space with the separate driving compartment. That's why I chose a 12 ft step van. Its not 4x4 but, IMO..its the best. I love it.
I think home on wheels alliance should be always located on wheels. If it would be located in a building, that will definitely contradict the essence of this alliance - on wheels !!
Get your tickets today to win Bob's van. Your contribution will go to help people in need within the mobile community.
howa.rallyup.com/bobsvan
BOB WELLS -- CheapRVLiving owner, Homes On Wheels Alliance (HOWA) co-founder/president, and co-star in the Oscar-winning Nomadland movie -- has donated his van to HOWA to raise funds to assist nomads in need.
Thanks for the great video ps i love these ambulances
I have a weird question how old are you sir
Sweet. You have helped so many others and you deserve what works for you!!
I guess I am kinda randomly asking but does anybody know a good website to stream new movies online ?
@Lincoln Judson I dunno lately I've been using Flixportal. Just google after it:) -alvin
@Alvin Leo thanks, I signed up and it seems like a nice service :D I really appreciate it !
Ambulance is appropriate for you. YOU SAVE LIVES!!
Yes, he is a good man...
Are you going to show people with your ambulance looks like on the inside
Come on Bob, we all know you got it for the flashing lights and siren! When's the first desert disco party? 😎
Love this comment 🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
DJ Bob's rolling Disco yeah
If I call 911, will Bob show up?
I'll bring a disco glitter ball!
Retired Paramedic here. Type 1 is on a pickup frame and usually doesn’t have walk through from cab to box. Type 2 is a van with a raised roof. Type 3 is usually a dually van chassis with a box on the back and walkthrough. The nomenclature isn’t important though. Terrific video Bob!
Remember, with newer diesels, you may need def. The older rigs had extremely oversized alternators that are expensive to fix. The boxes have wiring for all the interior lights, touch screens, suction, radios. It’s not a simple module. You most likely will need to block out or change the lenses on the emergency lights depending on the state.
Former Medic here. Your comment is right on the dime. Thanks. I have a type 1 decommissioned F350 6.0 that rocks. I named the cab Beastie and the ambu box Robin's Nest (after a cherished gf).
Thanks good info hopefully I can find one ☺️
Any idea where I can find insurance. Or what it is I have to do to get a used ambulance insured. Progressive (the conversion go to, says no) I feel like I have called everyone.
@@violahacket5014 I wish someone would answer you so I will follow ... I have heard this also from others
Love ambos. They have so many built-in cabinets overhead already. And, when you walk in, most have a place on the right where oxygen was and behind that, you can use as a closet. Can't wait to see the inside.
Right on
You deserve this Brother
Helping others and doing right by others
God Speed
With all the interviews you do I’ve been wondering why you didn’t get more space sooner. This is exciting you deserve to be as comfortable as possible in your journey!
I think and by his interview he wanted a recording studio because he's gotten so big over the years.
After 12+ months of research & thought, I’ve decided on one as well - for all of the reasons you note. But adding in, they’re not just well-built, they are maintained while in service.
I’m proud of you Bob, you have helped many people, own your own profitable business, and live your dream to boot . Thanks for the inspiration 😊
I had a 2004 Chevrolet Shuttle bus. Allstate insured it as a RV ($165 a YEAR!), and the DOT registered it as a van.
I used to work on the local ambulances. they were built on a 5 ton chassis. I was really attracted to how robust the electrical system was, they're basically a miniature power plant on wheels.
If your not feeling well you can pull straight into the emergency lane at the hospital and they will bring you a stretcher stat 😀
🤣
Clever....😂
🤣
🤭😆😅😂🤣
@@timothytisor3006or not 🙄.
Congrats Bob! I am sooo happy for you. You give and give of yourself... for YEARS! Have fun and enjoy and I can hardly wait to watch your videos of the build.
Bob...thanks for everything you do to help us all prepare. As we speak, there are climate emergency refugees on the move, and your videos help remind us to have our cars, vans, trucks, rv's, buses, and trailers prepped. The videos I'm seeing with interviews with people who have prepped (even with bags and a toilet pale) are more at ease than those who just had to run our the door with no prep. Thanks for what you have and are doing.
You are so right about how personal a choice the rig is. I never cease to be amazed at the individuality people bring to their rigs. I once saw a shuttle bus where the woman had a hammock hanging from the ceiling and that was her bed. Just amazing what people come up with. Besides all your personal reasons for choosing an ambulance, I think it is appropriate because you are such a life saver!! Ha, ha. : )
I have been in municipal equipment repair, maintenance, and replacement my entire career. During that time I have maintained and purchased dozens of ambulances of various ambulance manufacturers. You are absolutely correct in stating that an ambulance is a quality built product, even more so than a school bus. Question: what is the make of your ambulance? I have been to ambulance manufacturers facilities in Kansas, Indiana and 'Florida and found them all to be top notch builders. When you consider that an ambulance is a mobile ER the quality and durability HAS to be there, no ifs ands or buts about it, no compromise allowed.
Looks like Bobs new ambulance is a Wheeled Coach GSA edition. I sold Wheeled Coach for a few years and they build a very strong box at their plant near Orlando, FL.
I've got an ambulance also. It's a 1991 E350 diesel 2wd, with a MedTech box on the back. It's my daily driver, but I can use it for camping too. I would buy one again in a heartbeat.
@@sa78247 I appreciate your information. Where do I look at an ambulance? Make/model/type/. I have no idea where to start but it sounds like this would be something I would look for as a solo female driver. Of course I would like to add all the bells and whistle‘s and I don’t like driving in mountains without good brakes and a good transmission that will slow me down on its own like Cummings or Allison. Can you part with some tips? I sure would appreciate it. Oh and what can I expect pricewise?
I’m also looking to buy an ambulance to make into my tiny home and appreciate any advice on what to look for and where to buy one. Thank you!!!
Any knowledge about my MedTech ambulance? Mine is built from a Ford E350 van.
Congratulations Bob you my dear deserve it.. Enjoy and much love....
OMGosh! I needed to see this video. I converted a school bus with the soul reason to get into nature. It's too big. I am now converting a tiny transit connect to live in while I sell the skoolie. Wasn't sure which way to go after that UNTIL NOW! I will be buying an ambulance! Thanks Bob!
Hi bob your lance is super. But i didnt catch your thoughts on a step van. The big one. The size of a ups truck.or a small one
I thought about a step van
What is your thoughts on that . thank ypu.
I've been waiting for this video since your interview with the campulance man. Very informative. Thanks!
Bob, I love your honesty and straight-forwardness! I watch vlogs where people move into RVs to live full time and I wonder how they can afford to keep purchasing as their "crap boxes" fall apart! You're a peach 🍑!!
Good on you, Bob, for attending to your needs and thank you for explaining your rationale so well - you're right, an ambulance might not be the right choice for everyone. Enjoy the new spaciousness and the settling in.
Cheers!
Congratulations Bob. Enjoy your new home and office.
Hi bob and cody the showman. Congrats on your new office . gotta a name for him. Call him lance or big red. Love the color. If you have to change it a egg shell white. Or. Plain white. Would be nice. Cant wait until you do a video after you complete everything to show. Love you mom and cody. Thank you for everything. You are amazing.
Glad you mentioned the tires. I met a guy with a Ford F450 who was trying to change a tire and it must have weighed over 100 lbs. And if it happens to be the inside tire on the rear that means you have two tires to deal with.
I have a 2000 toyota tacoma and it has 16 inch tires and they wheigh at least 60 or more lbs. It is a pain to change a flat!
Not to mention it is basically equivalent to buying a used car every time you change all 6 tires..
I'm so happy for you... that you've found a vehicle that's gonna work best...I'm just so happy for you... I love listening to you... I love your UA-cam channel...I thank you so much... I've learned so much through you...THANK YOU.
So happy and excited for you, Bob! Congratulations!
I owned one too !! They are awesome with built in storage and I could stand upright while in it. 👍
You have changed lives! Blessings 💜
At my apartment, when an ambulance shows up everyone runs to see who is in trouble, I am staring at the vehicle and drooling over the compartments etc, lol. Good for you and hope to see a tour 💚🇨🇦
Beautiful Bob. Enjoy your new digs!!
I’ve been living in my 4x4 Ambulance conversion off and on for 3 years now and love it! Same year and exact same body as Bob’s. Super reliable and well built vehicles. My only complaint is they bounce like crazy when towing anything on interstates.
Shock absorbers worn out?
Air suspension will fix that issue
Surely should be some kind of special shocks to prevent the bouncing. Maybe stableizer bars if posdible.
@@violahacket5014 My insurance is with progressive. Don’t tell the it’s an ambulance, just give them the Vin number and let them provide a quote.
Box ambulances are so heavy that shocks just can't keep up. They aren't designed for comfort. It's a LOT worse in the back.
There goes the price for used ambulances.
Yup!
Yup, now you won't be able to find any used ambulances anywhere. And the price will go through the roof. Same thing happened to vans.
Price are sky rocketing on everything.
@@susanlbk how much the price for a used one usually?
@@wv9195 Similar to the one in the video with about 100,000 miles would be about $30,000.
And -- you'll probably have to paint it. Although in red, there will never be a knock on the door!
Beyond stealth!
Hiding in plain sight. We had ambulances in service like these parking around the shaded area of the cities all day and nights too. They can park about anywhere w/o anyone complaining.
Or he want to help every-body, who is knocking at the door: drunken guys, confused people, helpless homeless . . . and he ' s the doc, studied by life !
Yes! The quality is unmatched. I used to have an ambulance, so I know. The only drawback I had with it was the price of the fuel. It's greedy.
Looking forward to a tour of your conversion!!
*love the new upgrade*
Congratulations Bob! How awesome you are donating your old van and it will make a future nomad very happy. I know you will retrofit your ambulance to be perfect for you!
I'm so excited to see you so happy with your ambulance!
I have wanted one since forever.. That and a helicopter. Love your being.
Totally love it Bob!
These vehicles are made so well and larger inside for you. So wonderful you have 4X4 again. So happy for you Bob!
MommaFaye 🌺
Bob, I am so happy that you found this. YOU DESERVE what your dream is. Blessed and safe travels 🙏. LUCRETIA
you are honestly, an amazing guy, i love how you said its everyones personal choice and everyone is different and its not right or wrong for anyone of us. thank you so much for your words it helps nd is just awesome. i dont have enough words it spoke to my heart.
Awesome new ride! Just watched the new movie nomadland and your performance brought me to tears. You are such an amazing person! Thanks for all you do.
Nobody can ever say that you are not a kind, generous caring person..not many would donate a full size cargo van like your's with a value of at least $15K in this market plus..You could have sold it and added to your nest egg which at your age nobody ever has enough really but you helped another person out..kudos to Bob Wells for being such a great guy and friend to the Nomad Community!
Love it Bob! Congratulations on your new Home!
An ambulance is the way this 71 y.o. single woman went, but strictly for convenience. And I followed one of your interviews to Arizona. Couldn't be happier! I know you'll love it!
lets see it
I love the ambulance because of the storage! But I hadn't considered it about the insurance. Great point you brought up, sir! Thank you.
I was hoping for a walk thru tour. I just spotted the tour video, I spoke to soon, thank you
Congrats Bob! Excited to see the grand tour! God bless!
Just bought a 2005 e450, type3.
It's replacing the 2011 e450 shuttle bus, that got crushed by a tree.
The ambulance needs a motor, and tires.
Luck would have it, I happen to have both.. 😆.
The tree only hit one solar panel, and my maxxair 7500.
I've already replaced them.
The ambulance is a far superior platform, even if I can't stand up in it.
But, I'm 6'4" tall, so, it's to be expected.
Yay! Looking forward to a tour!
CONGRATULATIONS BOB, I LOVE IT...YOUR LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE. WHY NOT BE COMFORTABLE WHILE DOING IT...YOU DESERVE IT. LOVE FROM SOUTHERN CA.
Excellent. Congrats, Bob. You continue to inspire, teach, and set a living example. God Bless You
"Seasons" change as well....as we "mature", our needs/desires may facilitate some modifications in our home and/or transportation. Very few ever live/drive in the same home/vehicle forever....evolution is inevitable 🤓
I'm more of an outer town kinda guy. Not in "nature" but not in a city and close enough to both that I can do what I need to and not have to worry as much about stealth
That’s the suburbs. My house backed up to nature in the suburbs but close enough (an hour drive) to get my city fix in and convenient living.
That's the best way to go for me too. Some cities have large open lots and waterways also where you can have a makeshift camp and have the vehicle parked 5 or 10 minutes away on the street. A small tent, a gallon of water, a propane stove etc. can be moved in one or two trips. Easy.
Same here for me to. In the. Suberbs.for living. Its hard to find here in dallas irving texas areas. The rent here Is getting to expensive for anyone. Its a rat race here. Within 2 yrs. If my husband doesnt find work. We will be homeless. We have a small car. Have to live in a tent. The car is used for storage only. Cant carry no more than 600 lbs. Body weight included. So. The car has a 1.7 engine . 2019 mitsubishi g.4. Mirage. Still making car payments. Car ins. To. Both takes half my check. Im on soc. Sec. Cant go back to work. Everybody is doing the same work as my husband. Also nobody is hiring. He has plenty of tools. A 15 drawer tool chest and 7 bags of tools. 2500.00 worth of tools. So we cannot fit everything in the car. So we need something bigger. Thought about buying a school bus to live in it and room for the tools. Where do you buy a school bus and who will work on them. I want a chevy gmc.
@@janchapman3746 School busses are where you find them. They are hard to get rid of. Find the right one and you just might be paid to take it.
Bus Mechanic: That would be you. Think of it as a big pickup truck. You know how to keep a pickup truck running, don't you ?
We have a 36’ 2003 Pace Arrow.. we sold our big house a year ago, and we live debt free...
My Bob and I have been married 29 years and we love our RV home...
It’s comfortable.
We chase weather between Az and South Idaho..
So happy for you Bob.
Thank you for sharing your life. For all you give to others.
Excellent choice Bob, you will be much happier.
You are very deserving of a new home, and you represent our community so well. She's a beauty!!!
I looked at retired ambulances during my search, because I volunteered as an EMT for a few years, so I'm familiar with the platform and layout. At the time I did not consider the advantages that a 4x4 ambulance might offer. Nice find, though with no direct access between the living area and the cab, it might be difficult to get underway if you need to leave in a hurry.
Great video man, great info.
I think Class I is a truck front end with the Body added, Class II is the Single wheel van with a high top, Class III is dually cutaway van (so 350, 450), then Class IV is the bigger medium duty trucks.
Looking forward to the tour!!
Thank you Bob. The detail info...👍. Looking forward to a completed "build tour" (If it ever happens 😉). Safe travels, ☮️❤️🕉️
I've been waiting for this video for a long time!!! Thanks for sharing!!!!
Seems the perfect choice for you Bob! We have a tree service business. My husband has a 2018 RAM 5500 (4WD/dulee/2 tons). We pay $4,700 a year for commercial insurance on this truck in California. My husband has been in business over 30 years, no accidents, is a licensed contractor. This insurance has gone up every year for 3 years. So good advice Bob, CHECK FOR INSURANCE FIRST! Can’t wait to see the inside of your new rig!
This was great, good information! I was hoping to get a look at the inside. See how you set up your office, kitchen, etc.
Exactly. All he does is talk, talk, talk. Talks about how much room there is but he should show us.
I agree. No tour
@@ronnieguitar99 , he once said he keeps his rig a mess and will never show it. I was hoping moving to a bigger space that would of changed. Would really like to see how a full time business person sets up everything. We will never know.
In the video he said he will show us the inside the vehicle,
He forgot? Lol
@@ronnieguitar99 you need to learn the basics first. Then gracefully ask with intelligent questions, after doing some research. Van dwellers are very creative and not spoon fed.
Hey Bob, I am almost as excited as you are about your new rig.
I like the way you explain your thought process and how it works for YOU. Congratulations, Bob! May your miles be with smiles.
What can one say except, Congratulations! On your new home, looks like a winner for sure. Plus with all the bug money you are making this vehicle can substitute for a Wells Fargo safety deposit Box. Good luck on your new journey!
Great video! I have been looking for an ambulance for a few months and the prices are going up. But the reasons you mentioned why you want one are as important as why it might not work for someone. Thanks Bob and good luck. Can’t wait for the tour video.
Do they have air conditioning or heat in the home part?
@@misstbikini They do, but they run through the engine coolant system so only work when the engine is running. Most buyers rip those out and install separate systems.
@@misstbikini there is a regular heating and ac system that only works when the engine is running. Most will eventually add a dry heat source and a small ac.
Everything I've seen and the ambulance makes the most sense for conversion. It's halfway there in many ways!
Congratulations on your ambulance home!
Congratulations on your new home Bob... I think it was a smart purchase. We have a flimsy fifth wheel... I'd love to get a medium-sized schooly. 👍👍👍👍👍😁
That's a cute vehicle Bob, I own a"Tiger Adventure Vehicle CX"
Love you Bob, Congratulations on the New Home, it's Sweet!! I hope you will share a inside tour at some point, I have a big Genesis school bus built out, Love it but cost WAY to much to travel in, some day I'd Love to have a ambulance, love All you do to help others, you inspire us all to be better people, and help others!! Nothing but love for you from Ky.
Once again I must Say namaste to Bob! Our Spiritual EMT!!
Wow Bob! Congratulations 🎉I’m so happy for you, and Cody! You deserve a great vehicle to travel, and live in!♥️👋
Love it! And I also love your emphasis that everyone’s needs are unique and you need to pick the right vehicle for you. We spent many months researching vehicles until we finally landed on a Honda Pilot AWD SUV and we love it! All the time spent researching was worth it.
Congrats! We need a tour of the inside!!!
We Don't Need, but it would be Super!
@@Birdzy100 was that necessary?
@@Birdzy100 🙄
Yeah!!! We live in an ambulance and love it!!!
I looked into one a couple years back but couldn’t find much about conversion, so I chickened out. Maybe I will take another look!!!!! You’re the best!!!
Thank you, Bob. Your advice is appreciated.
Thank you so much. Very informative. I have recently started thinking about an ambulance, so this is very timely.
When's the tour? I kept waiting for it! Hoping you'll give us a look soon!
Me too!
Me too me too
Yep! That's what I wanted to see! :-)
Me too. Just a glimps but no!
Me too!!
Congratulations! Looks like the ideal choice. I see ambulance sales going up.
I see nomads everywhere with them! Lol...
Top vehicles sell fast. The price goes up. Cant figure out why prices sky rocket up at a time like this. People is homeless. The pandemic is not over yet. People is taking there last dollar to by a home. The prices go up on everything. Gas is up. Buy it now. There are estimated 650.000 people homeless and rising. I just dont understand. Lets all pray for everyone. I do. Thank jesus daily for what we have today. We thank him for what he did on the cross for us. I do. Life is to short. We have only one life to live. Jesus will make a way for everyone. We trust. We believe. We have faith in jesus. We give him all the praise and glory. We all will make it through this hard time. Just pray and pray and pray where ever you are. Whatever we all do.dont ever give up.there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. Follow the light. Jesus is the light and the way. Thank you. Love you all. The government controls sll of our lives daily. They are at fault of the pandemic and everything else. They are never prepared for anything. Misery loves company. So we all need to pray for them to bring back all jobs. And businesses to for the usa. Leave the jobs there in other countries for there people. We need all the businesses back at home. Pay checks should meet better than the cost of living. The rich people depend on us poor people to do all the dirty work for them. But they dont like to pay. They need to do the work themselves. See how it feels. Let them be homeless for a month. No job. No money. No food. No cell phones. No place to go
No family or friends or neighbors help. No house. Just the steets. I wonder how they would feel then. Add all the rich pastors of churches to. The rich ones. They keep crying tp take peoples money for parties and pay days.load up there bank accts. With another million or two every month. They never say stop. Put the money in the plate. Buying music. Etc. They never say anything to help the poor. They never donate to the major charrities. If they do. Its a tax write off.there are some good preachers or pastors out there. Where are they.who are they. The usa is in a big fat mess.why is china making all the vehicle parts and cars on every vehicle.china makes everything. Ehere is our jobs.look where our clothes is made. My clothes is awful. They wont fit right. Everything wears out by the year. Its only for business.gotta keep buying and buying and buying. Vehicles to. The more cars gets stollen and more accidents. The state. Makes more money. Everyone needs a car. Say that 2 million cars gets stollen a year just in texas. Thats 2 million license plates to sell plus inspections. Car insurances rip everyone off.outrageous prices. Its a money making racket. We dont make enough money to keep up with this kind of foolishness. Oh.yeah. the prices of cars to is a mess. They are stealing money from us all. To them we pay very close to sticker price. Knock off for the car wash destination charges a few other things.go on line at maybe car fax.com maybe it will tell you the price you will pay below msrp. Price. Ask sales what will the base price be. Type in the vin number on the website to. If the sales person wont tell you then walk out.if you get 4000.00 off. Sticker price or more. You will definately have a good deal.also get all rebates of everything. If you are buying a truck or van go to the fleet dept. Get a better deal. A lot of dealerships is crooks. I have been ripped off a lot myself. Nobody to help me. I learned the hard way.finally i had a friend at work years later to help. Oh. Rember the bombing at pearl harbor. The japans said they did not know the usa was in that certain area at pearl harbor. They bombed us. Now japan is making mega monies off of us here in the usa. In 1984 i bought a toyota pick up. A tacoma. In 1986 i was on my way to do laundry. The thought hit me about history. I thought why didnt i think of history before i bought this truck. After i finished the laundry. I called the salesman and told him i needed a different truck. I told him the history of palm harbor. He wanted to help me but i was in a upside down. Situation. So i went to a ford dealership. I again told the history. The salesman said i owed to much to trade. I told him i wanted a ranger. Stick shift. Plain and simple. I told him i. Will never buy a car from the enemy that did such cowardly evil actions to bomb us at pearl harbor.i left the ford dealer with a new ranger pick up. So now the usa is selling japans toyotas. Like crazy. So japan is only here for the business. Maybe to get all our bennefits to.soc. sec. Etc. What about germany. Hitler. Volkswagons is here to.so where is our own chevy and ford factories back here in the usa. Also. All. Of everything the usa ever made needs to come back home where they belong. Send back everything to china and germany. And anything to everybody else. They need to buy from us everything they need. So our government is stupid. This is why the usa is im such a big fat mess.. And other things to add. Well thats a story for now of a reason for. The homeless and job loss.our government has got no. Excuse of the way they treat us. With just two moves the government could make would bring the usa back to life for joy and happiness.plenty of jobs. People back in homes prices low or salaries up to meet the cost of living. Etc. Well there is hope. We never give. Keep on keeping on moving forward. Love you all . many blessings. God bless america. Thank you. Jan from texas
Great in high wind!! Great choice!!
It looks really nice!!!! Ambulance envy!! :)
Great choice Bob. I alway felt they would be a perfect home. So happy for you. Keep up your beautiful you. You are so kind. Hugs
Love it if I could that would be my preferred home on wheels. But if I have to start in my crown Victoria I will.
You can start in the Crown Vic if you need to! Using Bobs videos and interviews I lived out of a Honda Civic for 5 months!
Comedian Terrance Popp (YT & alt tech) said he started in the back seat of his Crown Vic when his wife took his house in Divorce.
I was in a 1994 Dodge Dakota with two senior pups for 1.5 years. I took out the front passenger seat for sleeping space, all my stuff in the truck bed with scrap wood panels for walls and a spider net for a cover back there. Your crown can definitely house you comfortably!
@@copcuffs9973 can you send me the link to the video showing how he had his crown Victoria set up. I don't want to take out the seats and distroy the cars resale value. Mine is a police intercept crown Victorian, a retired county car from Sacramento so the back seats do not fold down or come out without destroying it. Because it only has about a hundred and thirty-five thousand miles on it I don't want to do that. I know I can set up a mattress in the back seat and put totes on the floor of the back seat to help support the mattress and still be able to get to the totes. Plus because it's an old police cruiser type of vehicle I have a huge trunk but I can put things in. Right now I'm going through the process of going through everything I own and selling or giving away things that I don't need and getting a closet storage unit for the things I need to keep like my hospital bed and if I could get one of those foldable all terrain electric wheelchairs that only weigh 50 lb then I could give my current electric wheelchair to somebody who needs it that is not doing a tiny house on wheels, but unfortunately those foldable electric wheelchairs that only weigh 50 lb and fold up to the size of a suitcase pause between 2 and 4 grand and insurance does not pay for them. I do have a foldable manual wheelchair that only takes the space of one passenger but cannot push it for very far or on rough terrain. I can walk for short distances using a Canadian crutch or Walker. Still trying to work out the logistics on how to set it up where I have what I need until I can save for a van or a used ambulance which would be perfect for me. Thank you for the input, I need to get out of sticks and bricks because it is destroying my health both physically and emotionally.
Hi georgeous. You definately can live in your crown vic. Just minimize just what you need from home. Sell or donate the rest and you are good to go. Also. If you havent used anything in 3 or 5 yrs. You will not use it anytime soon. Get rid of it. Including clothes and shoes. Keep the very newest things. So get rid of anytging else. You will be glad you did. A big fan of bobs and the nomad life. Tell everyone you are only on vacation. So dont tell them about your dream plans. You will only here the negstive stuff. Move forward with jesus. Pray for everything. Jesus. Is with you always. Dont let anyone stop you. I pray for everyone and you to. I dont leave anyone out of my prayers daily. Happy vacation. Just get out there and do it for yourself. You go girl.
Bob you are naturally evolving. Congratulations.
Neat ride, but I think you should repaint the outside. Keeping the ambulance look might get you in trouble (I'm probably wrong, but you never know) . It looks like you're working on it at the moment, but I hope you'll have a tour inside soon. Congratulations Bob!
My ambulance looks exactly the same and I find that people are more courteous on the road.
And not one parking ticket! Lol 😝
I’m enjoying the advantage of the fact people like red trucks am I ?
It would be hard to beat the paint quality.
@@joutubeJack of course! Why didn't I think of that?
@@avelinomiseray6349 something to think about.
@@robertdragoff6909 yea here in California you can own an ambulance with the paint and lights still on the vehicle.
Your just not supposed to use them on the public streets. But the gov sells them to you just as is. They just remove the county or other gov logos ..
I bought mine and it still displays
Fire Dept. & Paramedic ... nothing illegal about that. Reminds me of an old Hot Wheels Fire Ambulance 🚑 .. lol
I’m enjoying the build and the quality structure..
I love my ambulance to . A 1991 Ford E- 350 van with diesel engine for that year . It can get up to 25 miles to the gallon if need be . My Ambulance hasn't run since 2013 but I still live in it using shore power
Cool!! I also just bought a 1991 Ford e350 7.3 IDI (no turbo) and have been loving it so far. Are you really seeing that kind of mileage? I’ve only filled up a few times, but am concerned that I’m so far averaging 10-12mpg combined.. my fuel tank float is also stuck, so I’ve just been topping off every 200 miles.
Great info, Bob, thank you 😊😊
I never thought I would see you in anything besides a van. My jaw dropped when I saw the title and thumbnail, you AND Van City Van Life are going ambulance. Love you both. Whatever makes you happy Mr Bob. You deserve to get what you want, that's for sure. 💙
Love you Bob and what you stand for.
You've helped so many people.
Bob, you need to apply for a DOT No. for that beast. Big fine if you don’t. Research it.
Congrats Bob, I think an ambulance is perfect for you in a metaphoric way too... you are focused on 'saving' people by helping them learn to live cheaper, more simply, and with nomadic freedom. I can't think of a better way for someone like you to travel than in the ultimate 'rescue' vehicle!
I had an ambulance for work years ago(carpet installer)it was great for work but for living in, there is alot of wasted space with the separate driving compartment. That's why I chose a 12 ft step van. Its not 4x4 but, IMO..its the best. I love it.
I think home on wheels alliance should be always located on wheels. If it would be located in a building, that will definitely contradict the essence of this alliance - on wheels !!
Ambulances are great for ametuer radio. Big alternator. Lots of room. Can mount a bunch of antennas on roof.
That looks like a perfect rig. Looking forward to seeing what you do with the interior.
Your donating your previous van, very sweet & kind of you Sir 🙏🙏✌ Can't wait fir the tour 👍
Congratulations on your new home! Understand your choice. Thank you for sharing those great tips.