Living In An Ambulance Pros And Cons | Ambulance Conversion Life
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- Опубліковано 27 вер 2024
- I sat down and came up with some pros and cons of driving and living in an ambulance after 6 months of being on the road. I know there are some of you that are super interested in this kind of feedback and if you have any topics you'd like to see covered, please let me know in the comments.
Please take a minute to subscribe to the channel and keep watching me think about things too long and talk about them too much while I continue to build out the campulance and drive around this great country! Lefty would appreciate it - he wants the adventures to keep coming!
I like to read and reply to your comments so if you have a thought on a video, let me know in a comment!
Visit my Instagram to see detailed photos of our life:
/ thecampulanceman
The Campulance Man is now registered in the Amazon Affiliate program in order to help provide support for the channel (me and Lefty).
So, if you click a product link provided in these video descriptions and make a purchase on Amazon, we receive a small percentage directly from Amazon. It doesn't cost you any more, and it does provide needed support for us.
Thank you so much :)
Links for Amazon items installed in the Campulance:
Rich Solar 190 watt monocrystaline panel: amzn.to/3aZmlaN
Victron BMV-712 Battery Monitor: amzn.to/2u3ydYM
EPEver 100amp Solar Charge Controller: amzn.to/2RP2Eee
Maxx Air MaxxFan Deluxe with Remote: amzn.to/2S9Es56
AlpiCool 58 Qt. 12v Refrigerator: amzn.to/2RPYCSB
Xroose Car Backup Camera: amzn.to/2Sd2UCM
External Mount 1.3g Gas Can: amzn.to/2UgUYmq
LED Tailights with Signal / Reverse: amzn.to/2RQg7lR
Helmet wall support hook: amzn.to/3954kGm
Pacific Duallies Ford 8-lug Wheel Simulators: amzn.to/2SipQ3E
XYZCTEM Motorcycle Cover: amzn.to/2vHI5HT
Links for other Campulance items and discounts:
WARMTOO 8KW 12V Diesel Air Heater: ebay.to/371lfYG
Aims Power 3000w/9000w Inverter / Charger: bit.ly/2KXrxQd
Custom Hinged Mattress: mattressinsider... for 5% off discount
SUNGLIFE Car Mini Power Inverter: amzn.to/2OFFdSv
Use Code 'Campulance' for 20% off discount
My 7.3 was sluggish until I put a basic "chip" in it for mileage. It woke it up and saved on fuel. I am not a fan of a TON of modification but a better air cleaner and a simple chip make a BIG difference. Don't worry about the driveline....totally durable and appropriate.
What are you referring to with the “chip”?
Everyone is waiting for a complete tour inside and out, if you wouldn't mind when you have time. Happy travels.
Excellent - I will get a detailed tour video made. Great idea!
I would like to see how your wifi and streaming is doing off-grid
OK Larry I can definitely talk about that.
Might I recommend one or two ground clearance cameras and even a couple of side blind spot cameras😃. Reference earth romer class c and other super c RV's. Being a paramedic I am well aquatinted with these ambulances⚕️
I love it. After driving ambulances and having a diesel long bed pickup truck, I am used to these vehicles and most of my EMS work was in the Houston - Galveston areas. I've driven the Ford van chassis, the Ford F450 chassis, the Chevy van chassis, the Chevy Duromax diesel and even a Dodge Ram chassis.
One of the earlier ones was a big Braun box on a Ford van chassis. This big Braun had stabilizers and had such a smooth ride that I said it was like driving your living room.
I owned two at one time back in 2010 when my ex husband (also retired medic) had our own service. Starting out, we were running out of a small office but we were on call 24/7 so we took the unit everywhere we went. I had a couple of spare cabinets on the outside where I stored our cooler, bedding and backpacks.
We alternated ambulances each week. One was a Wheeled Coach and the other was a large box McCoy Miller.
The big difference in your diesel ambulance and regular vehicle is to have regular preventative maintenance done on a regular schedule and we kept a maintenance log.
Yes. A backup camera is necessary. I spent most of my career without one. I used to bring the unit to my office on Thursdays. I took out the planters outside the office. Know the clearance. We had to allow for antennas on the unit and we accidentally took out the antennas for our communication equipment one time.
Omg... I can't do it without that camera :)
Thank you Kelly!! Great comment!
Planning on making a purchase of an ex ambulance. Thank u so much for your input.
Hi Toochie - great to hear your thinking about getting an ambulance. My experience so far is that they are built very tough and come with super strong drivetrains. Thank you for watching!
You made my palms sweat when talking about the wiring. I don’t even know where to begin and that may effect my decision to purchase an ambulance.
The good thing is that a rig comes with a full system that can be used without any mods, if desired... just carry a small generator to recharge if needed :)
I love your practical advice. Thank you for what you do!
Thank you!
These kinds of info is really priceless... Thanks again for all the time and energy you put into your contents... Cheers!
Thsbk you i appreciate that, :)
Tiny tips from a truck driver... Get an air chuck with the straight dual head, add valve stem extensions to inside duals, get flow through valve caps so you can check and fill without removal.
I had new tires installed with valve stems that I van easily reach now :)
Like the new microphone, great audio.
Thank you Larry. It is a lot better with the new mic that's for sure and thank you for noticing!
Thank you so much for a great beginner tutorial. The wiring would be the only thing l would need to hire out but l'm really intrigued with the possibility after l finish up the rehab of my 70 Airstream Ambassador. Being a single woman l like the structural security and the size is no issue. I learned to drive on a 30' produce box truck.
Hi Phyllis and thank you for watching and commenting! You're already comfortable driving a larger vehicle so an ambulance might just be perfect for you. You cannot beat the security that comes the build quality 👌 Thank you again :)
I've been living in my 14 foot trailer since June 30th last year..just moving to my tiny home on Friday! Can't wait! I know what u r dealing with except I'm mostly stationery...I moved 2x last year in 3 months..it's been different especially in winter! I got used to a colder snowier winter...just like I had in Winnipeg years ago! Love it here!
I drove city buses and retired from that btw.
That's great!! Enjoy your new home :)
I've got a 7.3l 2003 e450. Ambo. Redoing the entire fuel system now. Ready to remount the tank.
This was a very informative tutorial! Great job with the info!
I’ve been looking at off-grid living vehicles for over three years now. I’m an electrical engineer with physical hands on experience. I just finally found the ambulances as being a great vehicle and excited to say the least. Thank you for your video sir. 👍
Go for it! Thank you for your comment!
I hav an AmboRV and an AmboRV trailer. Since the boom with diesel fuel being mucho dinero I parked the self propelled rig and use the trailer and my pump gas Silverado as a tail dagger. I dig the AmboRV for similar reasons. Outlast every RV I've ever seen. The modual I use on the trailer was new in 1980. It's setup as a hunters cabin complete with reload stations for 12ga, handgun and my rifle calibers. People I meet get a kick out of the rig. Cant beat the build quality of the modules.
As someone who just bought one, thanks for the video. I feel pretty fortunate to have the original Braun wiring schematic manual, I wish I felt more comfortable working with electricity but at least it will help the people who help me. I feel the same way about driving the powerstroke and how far you have to push the pedal down to get up & go but that engine is all about the grunt and not the giddy up. I needed something to get across country without human contact to visit my mom in this lovely pandemic so.... Ambulance seemed like a good way to go.
You are so lucky to have that wiring diagram!
You said it - the 7.3 has all kinds of grunt! Once they're up and moving then they can have some get up and go (ish)!!
@@TheCampulanceMan I was doing some poking around today and noticed (after you mentioned it) that the Braun Ambulance co also gets custom wiring with labeling on the insulation for what each wire is. These two things will make the electrical component much easier to deal with.
I was gladly surprised when I discovered the labeling. It makes things much easier on the brain!!
@@s.willis8426 Who did you find to work on it? What kind of shop?
It's a pretty good list when even the cons are able to be overcome.
🍁👵❤🐕🇨🇦
Everything you said is spot on but here is the single most important point. Every person has to meet their own specific criteria. What they "Think" they want and need and the only way you will "Truly" find that out is to jump in with both feet and try it and be ready to say, "Well, I guess this wasn't what I really wanted." Then you sell it and buy your next choice that you are "Sure" is the right choice.
Examples. For camping, I started out with an extended cab, short bed 4x4 that I already owned and put a used, tall, cap on the back. I made a plywood platform on one side and put a twin mattress on it. That was doable but I wanted to be able to climb in more comfortably and walk around a little.
Then I bought a high top, awd conversion van with doors on both sides. I liked the compactness of it and the luxury interior, but the rear folding seat was just a back and bottom which was too short to sleep comfortably on. I learned latter that they make some with a leaf that extends them. If a tree hadn't fallen on it, I would probably still own it.
Then I went to my next choice which was a Turtle Top shuttle bus. That was great but it was too big for a daily driver.
Now I'm in a Chevy Tahoe which has a shorter wheelbase than my pickup and a Suburban, but I can still put a beach lounge chair in back to sleep on. With the back seats removed I can climb in a side door and sit on the bed, so I think this is a great daily driver/camper combination. I'll do my walking around outside. I put a Harbor Freight folding carrier on the trailer hitch for my electric, two-wheel drive bike for the bike trails and beach.
To live in, I always thought of a 45' Coach Bus so I could bring my "furniture/stuff" and it would already have a bathroom and some have generators with converters to 110v. But then there is maneuverability and parking issues. I would have to tow some kind of vehicle behind it. If I get rid of all my suffocating "Stuff", an ambulance should be the better, "Swiss Army Knife" alternative.
Bottom line is, you really have no idea what you want until you try it. "The best laid plans.........." If I could get my head right, that high-top, awd van would be really sweet to live in. It's hard to give up the space you have with an apartment or home, and, you have to get over the feeling of, "Living in a van down by the river." Especially when your mind is programmed that to be an adult, you have to live in a conventional structure.
You made so many great points about driving a bigger rig than most people have driven,I was wondering about the braking on the vehicle it is heavy and I would imagine it would have heavy duty brakes or take longer to brake smoothly at speed. (Potential con)
A pro to the list, In my experience driving a big vehicle is sitting up higher than most other vehicles on the road,which I personally miss going back to a regular vehicle(I use to drive a bus and seeing above most traffic helps stay out of trouble). Seriously great video man lots to think about.
Thank you!!
Audio sounds great. I moved from Syracuse NY to Fayetteville AR 6 months ago and bought an ambo a month after I moved. I put a ton of work and money into it to get it up and running. I really hope to be living in it by fall. I also have a great video idea for you. I have a pit named Kyra and I will be living in the ambo with her. Will you make a video about living with an animal? I know it’s tough with the weather conditions and keeping them warm and cool.
That's a great idea that I hadn't thought of! My dog Lefty is a big part of my life (if you've watched my videos you already know this!) and I have definitely learned how to keep him comfortable while we travel and camp? Great comment!
Loving all your videos and all your how to projects. Keep sharing as much information suggestions on full-time living in an ambulance. I'm grateful of all your videos
Thank you Tom
WHAT A GOOD DOG / AND GOOD LOOKING / YOUR BEST FRIEND / AND THE BEST INFO CHANNEL ABOUT ANYTHING YOU TALK ABOUT / GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR ADVENTURE / AND MAY GOD BLESS AND BE WITH YOU ALL OF THE TIME / LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR NEXT VIDEO
Just finding my way to this type of content now (as usual, a little late to the game). Really appreciate the content!
Thank you :)
I guess I need to be looking for a van to live in if it is hard to handle. I was under the understanding from another it was easier. Be blessed!
His is an ambulance.
Another great video. Very informative, especially the part about the dual wheels headache. Never considered that. Keep 'em coming!
Thank you for making this, lots of food for thought when considering ambulance for camper. Safe travels.
Thank you - I hope it was informative for everyone.
Totally love your channel
Thank you :)
Hi David, it was great to meet you at the ParTr. If you were at Slab City we are sad to have missed you.
Hi you two! Great to meet you also and I'm sure we'll see each other again. I heard you were at Slabs also - I was just there for a few days then moved on.
Very informative. Thank you... I am so very interested and watched thousands of videos.... this is definitely by far the best one ☝️ the only thing is where start? Where to buy and things to look for when buying an ambulance.
Thabk you for watching and commenting i appreciate it. I'm working on a video that talks about how to find a rig and some things to look for - keep an eye open for it coming :)
Excellent video! I learned a quite a few things from this!
That's great!! Thank you for watching and commenting!
Awesome Video! would love to have a ambo meet up sometime. Working up the guts and motivation to start purchasing my solar setup. Your videos are motivating and help me along the way.
Thank you for watching and commenting! I'm glad that you're getting some juice from the videos :)
I am getting my solar and backup camera installed in a few weeks. Now I just wish I could leave my job and just go. I will have to settle for a few longer trips atleast this year. Heading to Colorado early September for a few weeks if your close.
Hi Dave! Stick to your plan and good luck with everything. Excellent that you're getting your systems installed before leaving, unlike me :)
Who did the work on your solar and back up camera? What kid of shop?
Thanks for making these videos! I just came across your channel and have been bing watching. I'm in search of a rig right now and appreciate all the great advice you give it has been so helpful. I love seeing Lefty enjoying life! He is such a sweetheart. Happy safe travels to you and Lefty...
Thank you Sarah! I'm happy that the vids are helping out :)
We got a short taste of traveling in our camper but it was all ready to go and nothing to fix or change like what you took on and was only for a couple months. I think I could do it longer but not sure if forever. Would need a home base eventually. Love to Lefty!
I just did it, bought an ambulance, and I'm having the time of my life!
When you said "I feel like I'm not cramped up in here"...Lefty looked at you and raised his right ear like "WHAT".... LMAO 😂
Great video !!! Anything you live in you need to your wiring if not new, you need to know what goes where and why !!!
Especially if you're in an ambulance. The electrical systems are all over!
Awesome video, very clear and concise info! Thanks!
give LEFTY a scratch on the belly for being such a good boy while you shared these tips!!!
Just a thought since you haven't run a Power stroke much. Carry a spare starter, AND a Cam Position Sensor (CPS) ...it's the one thing that can leave you stranded. Buy a GOOD one as well ...generics are junk
I have a CPS spare but not a starter...
We bought a 1998 E450 Ambulance with 125k miles on it. We put 3000 miles on it this summer. It cost 3300 to buy it. I have put shocks, new rear brakes, rear spring shackles and a trailer hitch. I cut the rear bumper off too. It's getting 12mpg right now. Pretty sure about all I could do to improve mileage is to lighten the truck. I was told you can get .5 mpg by taking 400 pounds off the truck. Not sure it's worth doing. My rig came with studded all terrain tires that are new. I figure when they wear out I will put easier rolling tires and that might yield better mikeage
Hi Robert - I've found that driving conditions and aggressive throttle use are the biggest mpg factors. If you maintain even speed at 55 - 60mph on level ground you'll see a real jump in mpg. I'd monitor usage over a wide set of driving conditions, then average it out. Keep your tires at the correct pressures too. Sounds like you're having fun on the building!!
Love this ❤️
I truly enjoy your videos. I a fairly new subscriber. How I miss the nomadic life I enjoyed for 1 year. Due to health issues with my eye sight and use of my legs I had to quit driving. I used what I had which was a Toyota Rav4. I definitely like the idea of an ambulance. Who knows if I can get my eye sight and legs fixed I just might be on the road again. Thanks for the great videos.
Thanks for you’re input.
I just got my ambulance on 3/18/22. I took a 2 hour Uber ride to pick it up. Almost went into panic mode, thinking how far I’d have to drive it back home. It’s the first time in a vehicle this sized.
Really easy two hour drive back. Mainly backroads through small towns. 60mph tops.
I just wanted to keep going………..
Congratulations Jason!!!
You make the most informative 👌best videos I've watched. Thank you so much. I'm thinking of getting an ambulance since watching your videos. I'm retiring soon and will most likely be on my on.
Thank you!!
Great video! I'm curious why you didn't utilize the existing ventilation system that came with the ambulance. It seems like some people don't like them because they're underpowered and some people do, so they replace the fan with a more powerful marine fan to avoid having to cut into the roof and instead use the existing system.
Hi Jamie and great question. My truck does have a 3 speed exhaust fan that is built into the back wall and exhausts in back. It's a small size fan with a small sized opening and exit so it needs to spin at high RPMs in order to move air - and that makes it loud. I wouldn't have been able to fit a large diameter fan (low noise) in that location. I've just left it in place but probably won't be using it (it's super loud!!). Thank you for the comment and for watching :)
@@TheCampulanceMan Thank you for the response. That makes complete sense. I enjoy the videos, thank you for making them. They're a nice escape from reality.
Great Information...thanks....t
Well done video. Thanks.
Thank you I appreciate that. Thank you for watching :)
I found this kinda funny cause i actually drive semis and would love a big toterhome...but would not love the 6mpg that goes along with semis. Actually won a sealed bid on a 91 e350 road ranger bodied ambulance tonight. 7.3 diesel non turbo (which id highly recommend because turbos going to take a lot more oil and maintenance costs and just arent bombproof like the old 7.3l motors are) nice box on yours. Looks longer than the more common shorter ones. Mine got a long box too, one huge reason i decided to bid.
Congrats on joining the fleet!
@@TheCampulanceMan thanks! No big plans with it yet. Bigger bed and just kinda use and enjoy it is my plan for now. I have a gmc savanna van with the geneva conversion too which I'll be selling now. i also have 2 German Shepards so more space was a big concern to me but I didn't want something so big I start to suffer on mileage and accessible roads or places too badly and the durability of that ambulance box compared to a normal camper just can't be beat. For anyone wishing to know...1991 e350. Sealed bid of 2700$...I got a steal. 7.5 diesel, 24,500 miles. Tires look brand new. It also came with a lot of equipment like an engine driven water pump and oxygen tanks etc and cabinets and storage are full of odd things. Little town out in southwest Minnesota. Road ranger manufactured body, very clean overall, no rust or damage... and one absolute huge plus was as it was just a small county town it has really no idling hours or wear and tear on the seats etc. That's one big thing to keep in mind when buying as in most bigger cities yet have crews manning then and idling 24/7. A lot of the more rural areas are just going to sit in a climate controlled building and only be taken out as needed. I'll be picking it up on the 19th but got the notification that the sealed bid was accepted just last night 👍 I'm excited. Lucky I have a pretty deep mechanical and electrical background. I told a guy I know I'd post a video tour when i get it so if anyone happens to be curious to see come check back in in about 2 weeks and it might give you a great idea of what a very solid starting point might look like if your shopping around for one yourselves.
Your conversations on driving an ambulance has me wondering if buying an ambulance 2000 miles away from Houston is doable. For a first drive.😮😊I want to live in it for a season in life, then hopefully a mortgage free Air-Crete dome home.
I did a 1200 mile first drive in our rig when I bought it - it was uneventful and we made it home ok :)))
I am planning on buying a diesel ambulance next year. I will be RVing full time and pulling a trailer. I wanted a diesel truck with plenty of power and towing capabilities. With older ambulances, they are a lower price than big diesel pick ups, are built stronger, have inverters, and plenty of storage. So an ambulance seems like the best option. My question is that I have seen some diesel ambulances with a switch that you switch on and leave the vehicle idling to use it like a generator. Have you ever seen that type of switch or know anything about it? Thanks for your insights.
Hi! Good plan youre working on :)
My ambulance, and I'm sure many others, are equipped with a high idle system that increases the engine RPM while on scene in order to provide higher amps from the alternators to run equipment. I believe that's what you may be referring to. I removed this unit from my truck (and sold it on Ebay) because I don't have need for it. Idling a diesel truck while camping isn't something that I'd want to do because of the smell and the fuel use. I hope this helps!
I think what you want is called a DC charge isolator or charge balancer. It isolates the starting battery from storage batteries to maintain charge balance.
I’m searching for one. Type 3 with pass-thru like yours. Dealership for repairs has got to be a fortune, for any car. Their labor charge thru the roof.
Good luck on your search!!
Great build out. I've got a few questions/suggestions for you. Have you thought about adding a wireless monitoring system for your tires? I do believe they are available for dualies. Is everything in the "house" running on 120v? Having 1 or 2 12volt plugs wired direct to the batteries, and not through the inverter should save you battery life for those times you aren't hooked up to shore power, and low on incoming solar. Phone charging and a fan are great items to run on 12v. Why are you trying so many hotspots? Which has been working the best? Does your phone have the ability to broadcast as a hotspot to your tablet or tv, instead of a separate hotspot all together?
Hi Eric! The only 120 items are the TV and the coffee maker that are used regularly. All other heavy used items (weboost, Android TV box, fridge, hotspot, fan) are 12v wired. I have 2 hotspots and also use the hotspot on my phone that's included in the plan I have. I will put a video out that has details on them for everyone. Thank you for the comment and info!
@@TheCampulanceMan The reason I brought up the 12v fan was the day you got caught in the rain storm and you got worried about not turning the inverter on from the outside. I'm glad I was wrong. It's so nice to see a fellow NYer take the leap like you did
@@ericfrankel2754 Eric thank you for following along and remembering that downpour we were in. That fan has been retired! I was using it overnights for cooling but I found out that it was using a huge amount of battery power to run. I bought a small 12v fan thst replaced it, and it uses a small amount of battery. Thank you again, and thank you for the encouragement.
hi there! A really interesting perspective on a US Ambulance. Nice presentation 👏👍
ref wiring: my UK Mercedes based 5000kg Emergency Ambulance has 10km (6 miles) of wiring built in…. 😬
Ref braking, the Telma Retarder braking system makes a huge difference over a regular van.
One question, i have always been curious about the difference between US and European Ambulances… our Emergency vehicles are between 2.1 and 3.0L engines (150-190hp) and (speaking only for my 2.1L Mercedes, it accelerates like a beast and just keeps going well North of 110mph) Again, it’s a twin wheel (dually) 5 ton chassis based on a Mercedes Sprinter.
So my question is, why do American ambulances have such huge engines?
My fuel economy is around 23-25mpg urban. Is that comparable? (Diesel is currently $2 per litre/ approx $7.50 a (US gallon) or $9 for an imperial gallon) Are your engines bigger because they can afford to be because diesel is cheap?
Build quality cannot be overstated. When you own an ambulance it kind of spoils all of the van conversions that I have a look at.
Some of them look like showrooms but i sure wouldn’t want to bounce them around for fear of cupboard units splitting and flexing! I drag my 🚑 through the undergrowth like it’s a tractor! And being an Aluminium (our spelling) exterior, it takes quite a beating from branches etc without seeming to get damaged.
The built in cupboards are glued and screwed and bolted so well, Not only can you literally hang off them without them budging but they are almost impossible to remove LOL
and every single bolt and nut is stainless steel.
I don’t think European ambulances are quite as big interior but my interior is still 6 foot 4 inches wide which makes having a bed long ways a no-brainer! Headroom is 6 foot 3 inches (And that is without removing any of the overhead grab handles)
Vehicle servicing: As you rightly said the ambulance service cannot afford for their vehicles to be off the road so ambulances receive servicing every eight weeks and everything is replaced like for like with Mercedes parts. My odometer reads 317k miles but The vehicle is on its second engine And the service record is very extensive.
The box that sits on the chassis has an external skin of aluminium over stainless steel struts and then insulation and then more aluminium and then finally the interior wall covering so there is a lot to keep the elements outside.
Ambulances come with air-conditioning diesel heaters all kinds of interior lights and power sockets everywhere. Double glazed windows with privacy tint come as standard.
The roof is solid enough to probably sit a small elephant on top of so it makes a great viewing deck as well as support for panels and racks etc.
And again like you said, random people are always curious and asking if it is an ambulance and I have lost count of the people who want to have a look inside. It has an exclusive “wow” factor That you don’t really get with a regular van.
And finally because mine is based on a medium wheelbase (although the box is just shy of a LWB length) it’s easy to park pretty much everywhere and being rear wheel drive with four tires at the back, I have not missed the absence of four-wheel-drive.
And the best part? I only paid £3000 ($4000) for a one owner 2008 Mercedes dually (direct from the NHS) with what amounts to 70% of the conversion already done! (Lighting, heating insulation, windows, twin fans, sunroof, storage etc.
On December 1 2021, I will have been living in ‘Ambi’ for two years. Best decision ever.
Stay safe, and thanks in advance for any replies 😘
Any plans on getting a trailer to expand living space? That's my main concern about living in a campulance - space.
That's not something I've thought about, no. We have plenty of space to feel comfortable :)
👌 nice. Are the existing walls and roof typically insulated? Storage doors look like maybe 1.5 inch
Hi Elliott - yes, the walls, ceiling, and outside cabinet doors are all packed with insulation. They're 1.75" thick and it does help with heat and cooling.
My 1991 Ford E350 ambulance came with a back up camera, praise God! However, removed the approx 10 inch box monitor and replaced the system with a new flat screen model which fits on my dash. I couldn't imagine driving g without it!
Wiring nightmare!!! I'm not an electric brain so I struggle. I want solar installed so I can boondock and desperately need to install a heater if I plan to go anywhere during winter months ever again! Also plan to upgrade insulation.
Have decided on how I want to convert the module, bed, cabinets, garage, table, etc. Awaiting nicer weather here in central Kentucky but am anxious to hit the road and make some memories.
You're at the fun part: planning, planning, and building!!!
What did you end up doing and where did you get helP What kind of shop?
Well done video
Thank you for watching and commenting :)
Super informative vid. I’m about to purchase mine! One question, how’s the headroom inside the box? You look tall like me, I’m 6-3.
Hi Joel - I'm 6 foot even and I have to stoop a bit inside. The headroom is 5'8" in mine. Some folks remove the ceiling panels to increase the headroom by about 4-5". There are also some rigs that were built with a higher headroom but they are more rare.
Valve stem extenders are inexpensive and easy to install on the dual rear wheels.
Thank you Charles - I did add extenders to the inside tires, now I'm working on the outside tires. I have the 120 degree extenders that I will be trying.
Just found you today and subbed, this was such a well thought out video, well done. Do you have any idea at all how well / what kind of / how much insulation there is in these things?? I am in Canada so similar to NY weather but you may not be in that cold slimate much. It is just as important for warm weather (reflection) and many do not consider this. TY in advance.
Hi Barry and thank you for watching. The walls on my truck are about 2" thick (hollow) and are filled with insulation as well as the roof. It does help in both warm and cold temps and can keep it cooler than the hot outside temps.
@@TheCampulanceMan -- TY for replying! So you saw it all insulated with your own eyes or found an "ambulance standard" or something?? Obviously I am serious here LOL!!!
I've been inside of my walls, the ceiling, and the outer cabinet doors and came across insulation in all these areas. Seriously! LOL
@@TheCampulanceMan TYVM!! I really appreciate the feedback. If you ever need help with real estate or bitcoin/blockchain, including using that stuff to monetize your content, LMK my friend. I will ask 3-4 others what they found in their walls/ceiling etc etc and draw final conclusions. Hv a good week!!! Search my name to verify I am legit anytime LOL
David, what is the white, bullet shaped object mounted on the driver’s side box up high? Antenna?
Yes Rick its the antenna for my Weboost cell signal booster :)
Thanks for the info again. Is it possible to remove the already provided cabinets in there to setup my own cabinet system? I see it takes a lot of room and I'd like to put cabinets where I'd like them to go? Thanks!
Yes, all the cabinets can be removed easily.
I just bought a 2000 Ford 450 Powerstroke 7.3L. I am NOT electrical so I want to get professional help. Im in Western NC. What kind of shop would I go to? (The prior owner removed the inverter but that's all I know. ) No schematics. I need to add electrical and a MAXX fan, but again I cant do that myself. HELP!
An RV shop is the best for what you need. You'll need to be clear with them on what you want done so that they can determine costs and methods.
The fan is simple.
You'll want a 2nd, separate battery bank that powers your inverter and also powers the DC in the box. If you want to get some details from me you can email me and we can go from there.
you should look into valve stem extenders. Cool video. Thanks
I've added them to the inside wheels and the outside are next. Thank you!
@@TheCampulanceMan you're welcome! I've had and still do have diesels. I understand how they sound "different". Like a gas engine low on oil. That's being beat with a baseball bat. Your engine is a tough one. Good luck to you!
Can you get passenger plates in NY?
NY is a major pain in the ass with rules n regs for every thing. Don’t want commercial plates. No parkways with Commercial plates. NY wants rear windows, driver side, side window and a bolted seat with seatbelt for Passenger Plates.
Yes I spoke with DMV about the process and its simple. Get it weighed, and meet simple requirements on the setup.
pros: you don't need to call 911 if you're in a medical emergency, just sit on the chair and consult yourself to see what's wrong.
Bonus: it's free and no insurance needed
Always healthy living in an ambulance!!! Lol :)
Ok so we bought an ambulance its a Crestline ford e350 300 watts solar now. Watching you channel now. just ian
Congrats Susan on your rig!! If you need any help send me an email :))
Have you ever considered doing a live stream?
I have but always thought that I would need to have a large following so that I'm not the only one there!!! It's on my radar and now that you've asked, I'll start doing some research on it. Thank you for that suggestion!
You really do not need a ton of subs and no editing needed. Us subs can have reminders set for the chat.
Great informative video on ambulances. I also looking to travel with my big dog and KTM, visit friends and family and get some good riding in between.
How you do manage Lefty when you go riding?
He stays inside if it's not warm, outside if it's hot. I'll only leave for a long ride when there are friends close by to keep an eye on him :)
I've been thinking about an ambulance for awhile now. Just can't seem to save up enough money fast enough.
I was an EMT for 7.5 years then I became a Truck Driver.
A minivan or even a full size cargo seems too small for me. So I'm still planning on an ambulance.
Good choice!!! You don't need much $$ to get one :)
Got three kids, I want to get rid of my tacoma and get an ambulance now! I think we would enjoy it.
What kind of gas mileage do you get? You said it is diesel. Do you get better mileage with diesel vs gas?
Great info about the electrical and camera.
I average 13.5mpg overall. I have spoken with gas owners and this mpg is equal to or better than what large gas vehicles get. Thank you for watching!
Cons - they have a stiff ride , pro - if you strip out of the box to the studs there's alot of space to do things . Con - so many damn wires about 15 miles of wire
The ride could be softer for sure!
@@TheCampulanceMan yup the factory shocks SUCK .... some offroad shocks that arent so stiff would be better for the Campulance....1 of the units i drove they asked me to help in the shop to swap out the shocks omg i busted my hand undoing the original ones and of course they got same type im like why are you putting junk back in when we are taking junk out ..... "its what the boss says " oi vey
What are your thoughts on the best ways to purchase an ambulance?
I used a nationwide Craigslist search website and focused on parts of the country where trucks won't have rust. Also try to buy from the last service organization so you can get service records.
@@TheCampulanceMan Thank you so much!
Hi! This was very enlightening. I wanted to ask how much the purchase of the ambulance and the conversion costed overall?
Hi Nada and thank you for watching! I'll be making a video covering the cost specifics of my build so watch for that. I don't have an exact figure right now but would estimate around $15000 total cost.
Where are you located here in New York? I am in Chenango county, just started my conversion.
Hi Frank. I'm from the Rochester area - I'll be headed that way soon for a visit and some truck upgrades! Thanks for watching and have fun with your build :)
Would it be possible to put a full size lazboy recliner in the back of the ambulance to help me fall asleep faster ? Would it be necessary to remove some of the shelving to put the recliner in the back ?
I have a zero gravity chair inside that I use. Of course it folds up at night so I have room to set up the bed. A lazy boy would fit yes, but not when the bed is folded out...
Just kind of wondering how old was ambulance and ball park figure what kind of price for it,I realize may been higher in New York state,tks.
Mine is a 2002 and was $6k
Hi, I just found your channel and I'm getting some really good insight to somethings, others I know exactly where you're coming from. I just purchased an ambulance myself, can you tell me where you got those mirrors? If you had a model or any other info I'd appreciate it, mine has the full metal stationary brackets but they can stick out too far at times. I appreciate any help, thanks!
Hi Ed and it's good to hear of another ambo in the fleet! I'm glad you found us here and that some of my videos are helpful.
As for the mirrors, I just posted a video that has a link to the mirrors in the video's description. I bought them on EBay and they weren't too expensive. I did have to drill the mounting holes in the door frame - I used a step drill bit (brass colored, cone shaped) and was able to get them mounted super tight.
Thanks again for watching and for commenting and let me know if you have any other questions I may be able to help with.
In considering an ambulance: Because of it’s weight, must it be insured as commercial? Would I need a commercial driver license? Is going all electric on solar a fair option, or is it a problem?
Hi Jamie - no, you can register it as non-commercial (passenger) and also as an RV. Each state has different regs on this but many have done it. Next trip to NY I'll be changing mine from commercial and adjusting my insurance to RV (much cheaper).
Great videos - Thank You. I'm look at 1994 7.3 van - sealed bid? Not sure what I should put in? 54,000 small town ambulance. any Ideas?
That age rig should sell for $4000ish.
Best way to find an ambulance for purchase?
Wondering about fuel mileage.
Also towing capacity?
I average 13.5mpg. My rig has about 8000lbs tow capacity.
The electrical system seems very intimidating. Did you leave it as is or change the system?
The systems can be overwhelming at first but I did make changes. Look for a more recent video titled ' ambulance electronics explained'.
im surprised it drives that well on the HWY - I thought it would be busting a gut and not tracking straight
It's a really great open road vehicle. Set the cruise control and go.
I am about ready to start my ambulance search. I was under the impression that they were equipped with a diesel bunk heater and an AC system in the back. Apparently yours wasn't. Did you run across any that were?
Hi Dana - most all rigs have rear heaters and AC systems that require the engine to run, just like mine. They aren't set up to run off of batteries!
Fuel economy vs a full sized truck and camper?
Hi Erik - I average 13.5 mpg overall which is better than the 12mpg that my friends Freightliner medium duty Cummins.
Cool deal!!
Thanks for the info.
I wonder how many people died in the back?
:-/
Hi Pat! I like to think of it as how many people were saved by this truck!!! :)
@@TheCampulanceMan I guess that is a better way of looking at it! Thanks!!
Finding good ambulances is not easy; there's a lot of competition in finding them - I'm still looking. I currently have a 24-ft 2006 Jamboree with a 450 Ford cab (it's a duley too) and I know what you mean about driving these types of heavy vehicles. It's like driving a bread truck across the country! In my case, I'm only 5'2", so I needed to add pedal-extenders. They don't really make these cabs for women. The other thing I have trouble with is that the seats aren't very comfortable. I use pillows to help with that.
I do have questions for you: 1) How long is your vehicle? 2) Is there room to add a toilet in these (I didn't think so when I've looked in them), 3) any issues with insurance coverage - do you insure as an RV? 4) with all of your improvements to date including the AC and solar panels, how much has this rig cost you? Thanks, Wynn
Hi Wynn! There is room for whatever you want to put in, based on your priority. Put something in, lose that space for other uses. I have standard insurance and I didn't have any problem getting it. I am putting together a total cost video so look for that coming up. I've never measured the truck so I can't answer that off the top of my head. I'll try and add it on to an upcoming video. Thank you for the good questions!
Did your ambulance come with insulation, if so how cold can you camp?
As cold as it gets... we have a diesel air heater that keeps us warm!!
Do you have a video on that heater?
@@timreynolds2643 Tim, yes I do have a couple of videos on my heater(s).
hello, I want to know whether a jump starter is used in this situation or not?😁
I booster is a great tool to have as a backup :)
@@TheCampulanceMan Really? I want to buy one as an emergency garage for Prime's Day on Amazon. where I can access the cheapest jump starter?😁
@@yoyochive3088 For a booster pack, Gooloo has theirs on sale today (July 11). Here's the sale link to their store on Amazon: amzn.to/3yYhRzf
I'd recommend the GT3000 or the GT4000. Excellent gear!
@@TheCampulanceMan HI again, Thank you for your recommendation. I just buy a new brand that I had never heard of before--YESPER jump starter. Because I don't need a lot of currents of my car and I saw that reviews on the Amazon are always better, and finally I bought the cheapest one for my car.
I've been REALLY thinking an ambulance lately. Let's see if you change that.
How can you lock the exterior storage?
Hi! All the outside cabinets have keyed locks on them.
Hello, I really enjoyed your video.
If I may, I have a few questions.
How long is your ambulance?
Do you find it easier to go off grid?
Thank you!
Hi Candy - the box interior is 12' long. I spend 100% of my time off grid and it's super comfortable. Thank you for watching and commenting.
@@TheCampulanceMan Thank you for responding! 2022 I'll be on the road!
Did you insulate your rig?
I didn't add any to what was already there, no.
@@TheCampulanceMan So that begs the question, do you ever get cold inside the Campulance?
@@randyspears9827 Cold? No. I have a 5kw diesel air heater installed that keeps us perfect during cold weather. I have to crack the window at times to keep us from being too warm! Watch my videos on the heater version 1, then version 2.
What are you getting for mileage 12 1314 thank you for the video
Hey Richard - I've tracked mileage for about 6000 miles and I average 13.5mpg. That's highway, dirt roads, mountain climbing... everything averaged out. The highest was 14.9 for a tank and the lowest was 11.5 for a tank. Thanks for watching!
@@VonKartman I have the 7.3 powerstroke :) Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thank you for sharing this. Do you need a RV license after convert?
Hi Howard - there's no drivers license difference for an RV. You can change your registration to an RV type by working with your states dmv. Each state has different rules on that process.
@@TheCampulanceMan Thank you so much. I would like to find a Ambulance too.
What kind of mileage do you get?
I average 13.5mpg overall :)
Something must be wrong with your powerstroke, my wet weight on mine 13,900lbs and I pull a toy box 10' trailer that 2,300lbs, at 73mph I get 16.8
Thats better than me!