Storyteller Overland MODE LT Ford Transit AWD Camper Van Tour
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- Опубліковано 6 жов 2024
- THE TIME HAS COME! Storyteller Overland just released a Ford Transit camper van and it does not disappoint. In this video we give you a walk through of the MODE LT and give you our thoughts on this awesome van.
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@chadandpaul
👬Who we are:
Hey, we're Chad and Paul. We lived a pretty typical life up until a few years ago. Chad was a speech-language pathologist and Paul was an attorney. We worked in New York City and by all means were set. But we didn't feel settled. We wanted something different. We started a bunch of online businesses, quit our 9-5's and now we live an unconventional life in our van (a Storyteller Overland MODE 4x4). Follow along with us on our journey.
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#chadandpaul #storytelleroverland #campervan
Wife and I going full time in 3 weeks! Thanks for all your experience and encouragement!
CONGRATS!! Hope to see you on the road!
Wow, good for you! The lifestyle sounds great. I don’t think I could totally give up the sticks and bricks. Looking for a get away rig for long weekends and maybe longer stays up to a couple weeks.
I'm glad they put a cover over the Volta light. Excellent review.
🙌
You answered my question: the main bed isn't big enough for my husband and me to sleep comfortably! Still waiting for a overland van that has a king bed.
Hey guys! Haven't commented in a while. I absolutely love this rig. The Mode LT is definitely going to be my next rig, just have to get rid of my class A. Keep up the great work and keep safe..😉
Thanks Kenny! Appreciate the comment. And you too!
Oh those bronze rims are nice... its picks up nicely with the lower striping....
The new touch screen is a definite + upgrade! That cover over the power button is a nice well thought design touch...
As a designer my self (30+ yrs), I appreciate the flush mount lower drawers, allows them to blend seamlessly and since the space is confined it keeps one less thing to get your leg caught on than if it was a standard drawer....
Two things I would personally change.... add a good locking cap for the exterior water port to prevent tampering.......
and upholster the back doors.... plus a myriad of security upgrades...
Paul - Gun alert! U should wear that t shirt more often!😁😂😇
Chad - STOP HOGGING THE BLANKETS!!! 👺
you kids keep having fun and be safe
xoxo Randolph
Hahaha! Thanks for the comment Randolph. We love how thoughtful a lot of the design upgrades are. Storyteller really pays attention.
Great tour guys!!!
Thanks Paul, I like your presentations... very professionally done! My LT should arrive in 4 weeks, so this was a great intro!
I like the way you say drawers. 🙂
haha draws lol
@@ChadandPaul it's cute because he seems to have lost most of his accent otherwise. :)
If I were to become a teller of stories… I’d have to be a Beast of a Storyteller (insert echo here…). I’m just trying to grasp living in such a tiny space. You guys are awesome…
🙌🙌🙌
I like the Mode LT option. I was told all 2022 Modes were sold. Are they still marketing these 2022 at Storyteller? I would buy 2022 Mode LT if available... thanks for the video, really insightful stuff.
Thanks Chu! I’m not sure about that- I’d reach out to a storyteller dealer to inquire. The storyteller overland website has a find your dealer search tool.
Well done overview! I'm torn between this Transit STO vs the Transit from Mod Vans. Mod Vans squeezes in a queen size bed.
Excellently informative. Good comparisons too between Ford and Mercedes, greatly helping my decision on which to lean towards.
Thank you!!
I was a Mercedes guy but the Transit is an interesting platform with the options of software updates bringing the horsepower way up. Banks was saying they can get 450BHP from this with just a $400 software upgrade. Would be nice to know if all Ford dealers can service these as if they have Transit only dealers you may find yourself searching as the Mercedes owners do. Paul is good on camera, no umm, umm, when he speaks... Another great video.. It would be good to see all these models on some off road trips to see how these compare with the Beast, maybe Baja?? One final thing, it would be cool to see Storyteller offer a secondary water tank like the one Agile offers or maybe a recirculating shower to make the water last longer..
A recirculating shower would be amazing!!
Agree, navy shower, head first one gallon, recycle, then another gallon for the body with the recycled filtered head water, half a gallon to rinse.
Hey Paul great to see you in front of this time. Great video love the cup holders. Take care and be safe. Ciao👩🌾
Thanks RJ!
I love the big red candy like history eraser button! Kill the lights Stimpy!
Hahaha 💯
I would probably go LT due to ease of service and maintenance costs. Happy to see Storyteller giving customers an option.
It is great to have chassis options!
I would agree based on those. Also I think the Ford fuel capacity is 31 vs 24 on the Sprinter and I think the fuel economies are both around 15 mpg (?).
I also read the towing capacity is higher on the Ford like 6400 vs 5000. The Ford interior is wider and taller too. Ground clearance/off road capability is probably better on the Sprinter. Most of this info is based on either the base vehicles or what other people said so it may not be 100% accurate. I'd hate to drop $160k on one and wish I got the other!
My take fellows:
-one solar panel is a must. Impossible to expound upon here; in particular when not using the rig for a while, 6 months...
-u do not need to drive for an hour to charge those batteries, it would be a fatal flaw design off-roading in the Smokies. Instead, Engine goes on idle , high or low depends on Voltage and OEM 12v,24v,48v, 144v, 350v...
-what is the story, Storyteller, with ground clearence? and do not try to fool me here that there is a 2 inch lift-kit; that has nothing to do with ground clearence, nothing but for bigger tires and a fancy looking rig.
-the toilet is a fantastic option, much better than diging a 9" hole in the middle of the night in the Smokies, bears around.
-is that AC on top of the bed noisy? Need total silence...otherwise is not a go for me....
-Nice garage for our Mining gear and excavator.
I noticed that u fellows are afraid to ask the tough questions here,
Awesome job Gentlemen! Thank you for doing this video as soooooo many others!
Thanks Scott! Really appreciate the comment.
Great presentation 👏 👌
Great video! I’d definitely buy the Ford van. The chassis seems far more substantial and servicing it would be easier and cheaper. Now if they’ll just work with GM to build these on the new BrightDrop EV platform…
looking forward to seeing the 2023 Mode LT at the upcoming Overland Expos
For me, I really would need to see a Storyteller in person to check it out before I'd commit to a purchase, but the only authorized dealer in the Tucson area has yet to have one in stock. I'm guessing I'm not alone in that and think Storyteller should consider providing demo rigs at dealers even though I know they have long waiting lists for a purchase. I also think the website should include a "build" feature so a person could see all the options and get an accurate price. I also miss seeing you on UA-cam as often.
Yeah, welcome back Paul.
🙌
Impresionante, de las mejores Vans Camperizadas que he visto, muchas gracias por compartir 🙏
Glad to know now Transit also!
Hi! I met Chad in the Eldora parking lot last year. He showed me your rig and we talked about van life as well as xc ski technique. 😊 I just happened upon this video because I am finally ready to purchase my dream van, and this is the one! At the end, you said the solar panel was mainly for show, but if you were off-grid camping for a few days and not driving, wouldn’t you need that solar power? I mean, how long can the battery keep things going, do you think? Anyway, because $100K is my spending limit, I am going to have to find myself a used LT. Any advice about the best place to look? Thank you so much, and great work you guys! 🤗
Where are you guys? No newer videos. I’m sure I missed a lot but I’m still thinking about you
What N awesome review! I’ve been reading that cost of ownership with the Ford version is much lower. However I think the main reason I may go with this (even though I love MB and have a sedan) is that I’m hearing If you breakdown it’s much easier to get a Ford fixed just about anywhere. Have you guys run into repair issues with your Sprinter?? Thanks again for the great video!
An excellent tour. Thankyou!
🙏🙏🙏
I like the extra size of the transit but not crazy about the cockpit. Also, is 21 gallons of fresh water enough? (And is the transit less expensive ?)
Yes, in a van this size you have to conserve water, but we've found 21 gallons is enough for a few showers before we have to fill up again.
Did Paul say Drawer or Draw. That accent just came out!!! I'm still in Florida for now. See ya'll soon!
That’s that Long Island accent coming out! Lol
If I was buying, I would look at the Ford Transit first. Thanks for the tour!
Thanks for watching!
I love it just wish it was more affordable.
How much are these?!!!!!
@@r.becerra3182 $153,748 and now the put msrp of over $200,000 when they never did that. The price was the price. They probably did that so you feel like you are getting a deal.
Wow! I cant believe the price. Thats almost 40 percent of a home buy.
Dream vehicle. Great video!
Thanks Edan! It’s a beauty! That’s for sure.
Team LT. But you know that already. Smooth delivery. Do you rehearse beforehand? Nice flow, the way you stowed the shower while continuing the narration.
🙌 thank you!! haha no rehearsals. Just a lot of editing lol!
Nice job gents
Thanks Scott!
Excellent tour, thanks!
Enjoyed the review. Keep doing these rig reviews. Please do more manufacturers when you can. This looks too small for me and my better half. Married for many years and the size of this van might end out many years together😂 Thought no way with that shower but your review made me think, maybe. One thing is I have decided on is the Ford Transit plate form ( half the battle) Happy trials to you both !
Thanks for watching Steven! Definitely more van tours to come from a variety of builders! 🙏🙏🙏
@@ChadandPaul meant to say happy trails. It might be a trial as well though 😂
Good job as usual.
Thanks Gilbert!
great! Whats the difference in MB vs Ford Price?
The Ford is cheaper
Now I’m really curious why you guys went with the Sprinter for 2022 instead of the Transit? I’m hearing you say that the Transit is more spacious, better noise-insulated, drives better, is more off-road capable, has a more accessible repair network, and it even has proper cup holders. Seems like the Ford Transit is superior to the Mercedes Sprinter in every way. So why did you choose the Sprinter instead?
Hey there! I don’t recall us saying the transit is more off road capable and better noise insulated. All storytellers are insanely well insulated with havelock wool. The transit is about 1” more spacious on either side. It’s really apples and oranges and what your personal preferences are. The transit is zippier off the line and the repair network is easier to manage, yes. Personally we prefer the way the sprinter handles off road, the luxury feel of it, the upfit options (though that’s changing these days with more upfitters doing sprinter mods), and we just prefer a Diesel engine in the long term. The truth is- you really can’t go wrong with either, and the good news is storyteller gives you the option now depending on which is your preferred chassis.
how does the gas mileage compare to the diesel?
If I want a sit-and-lounge area inside to watch movies, hang out, read, or do office work without having to use the bed as a standing desk ---- what are my options in a Storyteller? Thank you!
Will I have to feel around for my reading glasses so I can turn on the lights? Pls tell me they can be manually turned on.
Maybe you all could share the bed if you had separate blankets. 🙃
Chad’s tried everything! Lol
They should switch the sink where the stove goes because I would rather have a little bit of water splash in my bed than Greece
When cooking put your bed up or cook outside problem solved 😎
@@pher71 more steps less fun
What I am dying to know is where do you guys put your clothes at? There doesn’t seem to be enough room to put your clothes specially for two people!
We put our clothes in the cabinets above the bed.
I understand the Ford has been having micro chip supply issues lately. Any idea if STO is getting their fleet allotment from Ford. I sent them a message last week but haven’t got a reply yet…Heard the Sprinter orders are now taking 2 years, wonder how long the Ford Transits are taking….I want one yesterday….
I'm not sure about the Mode LT at this point- I'd reach out to your dealer or storyteller- someone in the facebook group recently posted an updated so I'd check that!
Nice!! Where have you guys been haven't seen a live in a while?
I know! We haven’t been going live- been too busy lately! We’re still putting out an edited video a week and will be doing more lifestyle stuff too…
@@ChadandPaul You guys should be getting new van soon its probably a secret my guess is the Stealth thats what I want, but probably be a 2023 before I have the funds 😎
Everyone talks about the 2inch lift on mode LT, but what’s the actual ground clearance of the mode LT at its lowest point. A 2 inch lift will not change the ground clearance. Only larger tires will buy I find it suspicious that storyteller posts ground clearance on their other vans but not mode LT? Is it because the ground clearance is much lower than the others? I bet it’s no higher than 8.5 inches which makes it hard to go off roading. I feel like ground clearance needs to at least be 9 inches or higher at the very least. What are the largest tires you can fit on this transit with the lift?
I’d check the storyteller Facebook group for answers to your question.
Smart question here, fellows , What is the story, Storyteller?
How does the toilet fit into the helo base? I like a toilet with easy acess for long trips...Does the cassette toilet have a water source? Thanks
Are the cabinets removable on both sides or just the drivers'?
Both rear sides are removable 👍
How would you get water from a 5 gallon jug into the fresh water tank? I seem to recall Chad talking about being able to siphon it directly from the just but that feature seems to be gone in the '22 updates?
I watched it again and was able to see the siphon panel so it looks like you can still do that.
Yup! You can still do that!
I missed y’all lately.
We’ve been busy! hehe
How’s the suspension vs the sprinter?
Thank you for the video, I was hoping you would give us measurements compared to Sprinter. Ford transit is wider I believe, where did that inch or so of extra width go? is the walk way wider, etc?
I called Storyteller, rep did not know either :) ...as final thought, if there was mesurement of edge of kitchen counter top to edge of bench seat, and did it again on the sprinter, might have given an idea. Thanks!
Hey there! I didn't take measurements- once the MODE LTs hit the road, I'm sure you'll be able to get more accurate measurements in the facebook group. The LT just feels a little bit more spacious due to that extra inch all around. You especially notice it in the ceiling height compared to the Sprinter. Hope this helps!
@@ChadandPaul Many thanks and keep up the great work
Nice tour!
Cup holder note! Mercedes put REAL ("American-sized," lol) Cup holders in the 2020 Sprinter. Yay!
Hahaha
Great review but how much does it cost!? ….I’m guessing it’s expensive if you don’t talk about it
Storyteller uses see through pricing, so if you go onto their website the price you see is how much it costs. Check out Storyteller Overland's website.
Do you think moving the fan will make the shower curtain dry slower ?
I think it actually increases airflow so might be a faster dry.
Must be that new kind of aluminum.
Team Mode LT
On the Mode LT, does the alternator charge the batteries while the engine is idling or do you have to actually drive the rig around in order to charge?
Good question! I’m not sure if the LT will have an idle function- I’d check in with Storyteller Overland about that.
What is the advantages of a 12 volt AC unit
I believe 12v ACs are more efficient to run.
do you keep the Volta on all the time? Does this mean it's WIFI? or just the battery?
We keep Volta on all the time- it’s the battery/power system that runs the coach. On our opinion the best power system out there
Hi Chad and Paul, Do you think the LT has enough clearance from road to underbelly?
Yes I do- but I think it depends ultimately on how you’re going to use it. Personally if I knew I wanted to do some rock climbing and really push the van (and clearance) to the limits- I’d probably be more comfortable in a sprinter (with some skid plates). I think for most people and usage scenarios the clearance on the LT will be just fine.
@@ChadandPaul Thank you! I’m somewhat confused about gasoline vs diesel as well. What are your thoughts on the pros and cons?
I’ve heard the diesel can have slow power accelerating from a stop and some challenges finding diesel stations?
Also, do you know if it is possible to install a 360 camera for parking and lane assist on the Ford Transit?
You two seem to know so much about additions and possibilities for vans.
I’m between the Storyteller Classic mode and the LT Mode.
Thanks in advance for your wisdom!
Jana
You do need solar, you are saying that is kind of deceiving. Most people are not driving around constantly and having to run the vehicle all the time just to charge your batteries is not feasible. What if you want to be stationary for several days, that means you have to constantly run the van to keep the batteries charged?
Storyteller has an option to extend solar panel to 600W (default is 90W).
I know the beast mode will automatically run the engine when the Volta drops to a certain percentage to charge your lithium. Not sure if the LT does that.
Did you say 12,000 watts of amps power? 3:53
12,000 watt hours of power
Missed too much about the features because the camera was not aimed on them or was too tightly focused on Paul rather than on what he was describing. Usually these guys have awesome videos. This was disappointing because I’ve been looking forward to seeing the Ford version.
Do you have an estimate of fuel economy for the LT?
We don’t! Sorry- I’d ask the Facebook group and see if anyone has some ideas- it would be an estimate at this point.
Is this your next van?
🤐
You’re buffer than the last time I saw you.
💪
I own & occasionally camp in my 148wb HR Transit. I can't imagine going full time in a conversion like this. Don't drink the kool-aid! You have to go minimalist big time to avoid going ape shit. Less is more.
The halo shower is terrible. I got a Revel
Nice but for $200k I would want a better shower toilet.
Good review but go back and count how many times you said “here” in the entire review…. Wow! All I hear is here, here, here, here… just be aware of that.
Paul your eyes are just Mythical . You have a lucky Boyfriend
❤️❤️❤️
What are draws? Lol
Pauls from Long Island, you’ll have to forgive him 😂
U guys sponsored by story teller?
U gotta be
No. We’re just very happy owners and love the community. We do van tours of a variety of vans but love our storyteller.
Kind of fugly. The front side profile is odd looking. I guess to each their own.
Not a fan.