REVIEW OF FORD CUSTOM AUTO CAMPER CAMPERVAN
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- Опубліковано 18 кві 2019
- In the is video we do a full review of our newly purchased campervan 'Harry' a Ford Custom Transit customiused by Auto Campers.
Our names our Stew & Jane and we are Getaway Geese. We share with you the details of the campervan we have purchased along with our decision making process.
Please like, subscribe, share or comment as we love to hear from you as this encourages us to create more content.
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Our campervan was purchased from Autocampers
www.auto-campers.co.uk/
Ford base van specification
www.ford.co.uk/content/dam/gu...
Duvalay mattress topper
www.duvalay.co.uk/custom-matt...
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Some of the key video loggers that have inspired us in all the research we have done are listed below so please check them out .....
Explorer Buddies - / @explorerbuddies
Indie Projects - / @theindieprojects
A Bus And Beyond - / @abusandbeyond
We're The Russos - / @weretherussos
Andrew Ditton - / @andrewjditton
Travelling Togs - / channel
Tread The Globe - / @treadtheglobe
The exPAWers - / @theexpawers
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Track: Tobu - Return To The Wild [NCS Release]
Music provided by NoCopyrightSounds.
Watch: • Tobu - Return To The W...
Free Download / Stream: ncs.io/ReturnToTheWild
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What a lovely little camper van, I was thrilled to bits to see both front seats turn! Love the outside kitchen access, clever choices!
Sorry for the late reply .... thanks for your comment and glad you enjoyed it. Yes both seats is a big thing as gives you much more space
Great video - really helpful hearing about your choices and the reasoning.
Thank you - we found our thoughts evolved so keeping an open mind and challenge yourselves was key ....
999óì
Thanks so much for this vlog, I am looking to downsize from my big white box and had never heard of Autocampers until I saw this. I love the look inside and out, and the layout of it and the fact that you still love it says volumes. Now all I have to do is sell my van ...
Glad you found it useful - we are out in Harry as I type in Ireland so yes we still love him. Since that review we had upgraded to an all one kitchen top with smoked glass top plus added in refillable lpg although who knows what is best on that side
Thank you for watching and commenting
Thanks for taking the time to explain in so much detail this van. It is now one of just THREE on my shortlist, all of which are SWB hi-tops! (The hi-top Jerba which has the windows and storage in the top as well as the Heki skylight for even more light but a little less storage / The Leisure Drive Hi-top which has a sofa and fixed loo but I'm not sure about using the cab seats for the bed, or finally this one or the MRV from Auto.
I particularly enjoyed your table demonstration, so thanks very much for the detailed review!
Glad you enjoyed and sounds like your doing the right thing in challenging and deciding your priorities- that’s how we ultimately got to choosing and challenging our pre conceptions
Good luck in your next steps
Excellent video, really appreciate you sharing this! Looking at getting a camper and Ford seems to tick all our boxes! Kind regards, Simon and Elaine👍
Hey guys thanks for watching and good luck with your campervan choices - only advice is keep challenging yourself as we changed our minds right at the last minute .... must haves and should haves is a good way .... good luck and hopefully keep watching
Great video. I have bought a Custom L1H1 DCIV which I am planning to convert, and you have given me plenty of inspiration and ideas. Thanks for posting 👍
Hey - thanks for comments and glad you enjoyed and gave you some ideas - good luck with the build
Great video. Love the van and the explanation of why you chose the Ford. My van is also a Ford and I totally understand that. High top makes sense when you’re using your van year round in this country.
Thanks for watching and above all commenting …. It’s very much a personal journey choosing a van and I didn’t realise many things to take into account. The high top for two ppl especially was a big decision change for us and we look back and realise we could of made a mistake …. But it may not suit all
Only just come across your VLOG as we are about to start the exhaustive audition process for our new camper and Auto Campers are on our list and they pointed me at your site. Loving your videos as a great way to see people new to a camper van and how they start out and learn the ropes as it were. This video in particular so very helpful in seeing an actual user review not only of the van and its features but also your thought processes. This list of options and choices is endless so its proving difficult to find the best combination. We are experienced campers moving from a massive Frame Tent through to our current Opus Air Trailer Tent. Plan is replace our large car with a Camper Van and keep our second small car as a runabout. One thing I would be interested in was how many other companies you looked at before choosing Auto Campers. One of our main factors is storage (we are outdoor types with inflatable kayaks and paddleboards) so we've narrowed it down to companies that offer a sliding rear seat or similar.
It will take me a while to work through your videos but they are really well put together and enjoyable. Keep the videos coming.
All the Best.
Andy
Thanks Andy for a comprehensive comment - we were in the same point when we were looking 4 years or so ago.
We looked at all sorts and started at Sussex campercar NV200 but it was to small. We looked at hybrid electric Japanese imports but we didn’t like the thought of quite an old vehicle and then of course the more traditional VW but came at a price
What I would say everyone is different and for us a SWB was a must as I wanted it to be easier to park and there was just the two of us.
We were going for a pop top and so grateful in meeting Steve at autocampers as he challenged us and the H2 Ford gave us so much in that we could instantly stand up and gained 8-10inch of storage all around.
The Ford was bigger than the vw and in my opinion was a better drive especially the auto box.
The fact the two seats swivel makes the inside so much bigger to.
Loos as you will see we didn’t and after 3 years don’t need as we have recently changed to a bivvy
So with the LWB now available to you and the extra outside stuff that could be an option.
I would think hard about a high top v a pop top
Any questions ask away and I will give you my thoughts but in the end you must find your absolute must haves and challenge those that’s for certain
Stew
@@getawaygeese The SWB is our preference as like you we want to be able to park it easily (it will become our family car) but I do own a 3m long kayak which might just fit in a LWB for a day trip although I'm loathe to put a wet and sandy kayak in my shiny new van (I use it for surfing). If it was just the two of us then the high top would be a no-brainer but our daughter is likely to be coming with us for a few years yet so we need the extra bed (and putting a kayak on the roof of a high top would require a specialist roof rack). I'll probably have some other questions as I work through your videos. Many thanks again for the advice and the really great videos! :)
Andy
Understand the pop top need as everyone has different quirks I wonder if you can get a side mount for the kayak I be am sure I have seen them but it needs to clear the side door opening ….. good luck and enjoy the process as you work through it
Hi great video. We've got the same model but manual. Really enjoying the van. We decided on putting toiletries and etc in that back top cupboard and crockery etc in the cupboards around and above the sink. We've had it for a couple of years now and holidays in Ireland and Scotland so far. We were planning on France this year but I think we'll leave it for now. Continue having fun
Hi Ian - yep we love the fact it’s small and manoeuvrable... will take a look at the cupboard idea. We added to thin 20mm net pockets one against the large cupboard by plugs and also one over far side by head if bed for phones whilst they recharge. I may add another shelf in the back of large cupboard accessed from rear but struggling to find the right wood so it goes as needs to be silver or duck egg blue . We are doing Ireland in Sept our first venture outside UK and then Europe at some stage so good luck and stay safe
GetawayGeese we really enjoyed Ireland. Did the Wild Atlantic Way from Rosslare round to Glenbeigh in 10 days
That’s useful info we were going to get to Galway so I may be planning to far in 10 days and slow down
Love your van and presentation style. Looking forward to seeing your future trips. One small point I think the van is a limited spec rather than a trend. Confusingly the limited spec level is better than the trend which includes alloy wheels and ac which I see you have. All the best during lockdown.
Thanks for comments and glad you enjoyed .... just rechecked paperwork and you are right with spec ... well spotted .... hopefully we can go to Ireland in Sept a bit touch and go I think
Amazing video thank you. We are currently looking at campers and this has turned us more towards a high top over a pop top. Looks amazing.
That internal setup is one of the best we have seen.
I think from our experience is to keep challenging yourself on what you want and also what type of campervanning you will do - as we say for us we were going pop top but having been in it the extra storage just made it easier but then height barriers may impact but as you will see it’s never really stopped us
Enjoy the process
Really good video guys
Thanks for the great video, looking to do a self conversion using same base vehicle. We have two small kids but I’m hoping we can either squeeze in an extra bed above or use the cabbunk system. Cheers
Thanks for watching - that sounds interesting with the cabbunk system I have seen in the past a few pics so good luck with that - I re commented on the single seat
Nice van. Wishing you many happy (and undisturbed) nights. We also have a SWB Ford but with a pop top; the reasoning for that was ventilation in the heat and it can be dropped in the winter or when 'stealth' camping. We also store our bedding and mattress topper up there in the day. Our gas supply is underslung which means that it is a larger capacity and can be refilled at Morrisons or BP: it also runs the heater. All personal choices and they work for us. Happy campervanning.
Sounds great and your right it’s all about personal choice based on how you camp etc - we have added a few upgrades since like a more sleek kitchen and sink area and a gas low lpg tank albeit inside
Thanks for watching
I’m looking at buying a camper van the reason for this is because I became a widow, my husband and I had camped for years and had spent time considering a motor home or caravan? The day he passed away we put a deposit on a caravan, he went to bed thinking we were going to do all the things we’d talked about. I’ve spent the last probably 5 years living my life on You Tube looking at everyone’s adventures. I always thought VW but met Orange Campers and really liked their Ford conversion. Would like to know why @andrewlangshank2407 chose their van. I have questions re: LPG and gas heating.
@janewarburton8884 I know the comment not aimed at me but good luck with your adventures to make sure you complete your original dream
@@getawaygeese yes I would really to contact @andrewlangshank2407 but couldn’t find out how. I always follow you and enjoy your advantages. Obviously Wv that’s what people choose bit I think a Ford Trouvaille Actif is a good choice for me,,
@@getawaygeese thank you. I love watching your adventures. Embrace every minute because life is fragile and end result it’s never wralkimg
Great presentation. Right choice for your thoughts.
Thanks Jeff appreciate your time to comment
What a wonderful layout! Perfect for a couple, and that with the short wheelbase. One remark about the drawer though. Why not modify it so it can slide out in both directions? The current access hole does waste some space above the drawer.
Thanks for your comment .... yep I guess that would be an improvement to slide out - guess small extra manufacturing cost. We actually used cooking from the outside this week for the first time in earnest and made such a difference ....
First time on your vlog- fabulous demo & explanations !
Thankyou
Now we are going to see if we can source something similar in Australia!
Thank you Christine. Glad you’ve found it helpful. Seems so long ago now. Hopefully we’ve improved over time 😂 Jane
Wow. Harry is certainly a lovely boy. Seems to have everything you could want or need. Very nicely done Van tour. I think Harry is a keeper. Thanks for showing us around and nicely explained. You didn’t even have a script. 👏👏🙏🚐🐶🐶👍🧙♂️
Lol. Thank you - we absolutely love him ❤️ jane
We have this van too, it's lovely to drive and a great size for me when my husband wants me to take over. We're about to convert it to a day van/camper and have waited a year since purchase to get it booked in due to dreaded Covid and places being shut. As soon as it's done we'll be off, that is as soon as we work out how to lock it withouth the alarm going off when we want to sleep in it, or take it on a ferry. Presently waiting to hear back from Customer Experience Specialist, CV Service Centre, Ford of Britain & Ireland! As our local dealer doesn't know either 😂 We love watching your videos, not sure what we'll name ours, but I'm sure she'll give us an idea once she looks more camper like 😎! Keep up the good work!
I can help I think so when you switch the engine off on the dash you need to toggle down from full guard to partial guard - that switches off internal detection. Also if you lock the door from inside only single click and make sure you unlock before opening the sliding door otherwise the alarm goes off - been there done that and woke up the camp - anyway thank you for watching and commenting and you have sone exciting times ahead - if my description doesn’t make sense let me know I will try explaining better - Stew
@@getawaygeese thanks Stew, that seems to be what the lady at Ford said yesterday too! We'll give it a go! There is also a man who works there which they call the Guru, hoping he'll be able to confirm this, or help further! Many thanks again Sarah 😁
Hi again, this came through from Ford this afternoon. You were right, plus a little more added info, although we have yet to try it 😉.....
The alarm is only activated when the vehicle is double locked (clicked) with the remote. They can lock the doors from inside from the padlock switch (on the driver's door trim panel) or by just locking the driver's door. The locks will be activated and the alarm not armed. The other way is to push the remote lock button once from inside the cab. The alarm interior sensors can also be deactivated from the cluster settings and put in "reduced guard". The owner's handbook should be able to guide or for information.
😁
Glad you had it confirmed - all works for us
Lovely van and great choice, and a very well presented.👍
Thanks John for the comment glad you enjoyed - very personal in choosing a van but suits us and we are still enjoying every moment
Excellent video, very well done, stunning van👌
Thanks for the comment it was one of my early ones we reviewed the van 12 months later to reflect on what works. It suits us but very personal choice when it comes to vans Motorhomes etc
Hi Stewart, hi Jane. Great video's, they've certainly helped us "shortlist " our camper choices massively. Keep them coming.....
Can I ask do you use Harry as a daily drive vehicle or have you limited him to your camper excursions?
Did I hear that you're getting around 30ish mpg ?
Many thanks Richard 👍👍
Thanks Richard for your kind words as that is one reason we do them as we found them useful when we were looking .
We get 30mpg on a 2 litre diesel auto box. The plan originally was that I may use it as a run around but at the moment we don’t but as it is the short wheel vase you could easily as parks in a single bay …. Guess it’s all about wear and tear and depreciation etc
Loved your review of this very discreet and usable little beauty.
Almost pissed myself when you accidentally said lezzer battery 😂
Personally I'd have a clutch pedal but otherwise I'm well jell🤩 hope you have many lovely trips/hols in Harry👍
😂Thanks after 5 years we’re still loving the van - it’s not blingy but am honest practical van - that’s quite an old video and we have since upgraded the kitchen to an all in one sleek look and onboard gaslow lpg tank - videos of upgrades exist
Thanks for watching
Thank you...,looks like it would be 56k if New...we want one for our retirement..yes I think the fixed roof. And swb makes a hell of a lot of sense..great tool for couples...I'm just worried that my wife can't use the portapotty at night..
I be think that is the key on what are your red lines although challenge them - I know highland autocampers rent so a good way to test what you need and what you don’t ….
" Nice to have a warm ass in the morning." 🤣😂Kickass van! We need those here in the US.
Yes the diesel heater is ace .... especially as you don’t worry about the fuel as it’s just part of the van
I really enjoyed your vlog. I was wondering what the total cost of the modifications were. I think the Transit is more stealth and other vans and your conversions were wonderful.
Hi Paula thanks for the comment .... yes we were all VW at one point but the extra space and new looking design of the Ford Custom and the lower price was a factor . The van is a custom build by Auto Campers they have various models but if you go on website they give the cost of the vehicle and conversion - they do sell a number of second hand models they turn around - www.auto-campers.co.uk
Agree with previous viewer. Great to hear the personal reasoning for lifestyle choices as often there is a bewildering configuration and easy to get carried away and then realise that option maybe is not best suited for YOUR use. Thanks for the details and a# a VW man appreciate the Ford might offer better value for money so not to overlook.
Roger Mowat I like the VW but what swung it was the configuration on the Ford and Autocamoer and two doors plus generally 6-8k cheaper but everyone is different - thanks for the comment and agree so easy to want this that and the other and then maybe it doesn’t work etc
Great, informative video.
Did you find high top restricting you on your journeys?
Thanks
Hi thanks for watching and commenting - no to date in 2years only one place we had to find another place although I know more are going up ….. I would not swap for a low top in our position due to extra storage and the fact you can stand all the time
Love this camper. Wish they sold these here in the states
Thanks for the comment Steve - we like it as suits our needs and nice and easy to get around
We love your van 👍
Thanks - it suits us but is still small to park in a std parking bay ...
Really like it. Do they do a single open upwards rear door version?
No as it’s a high h2 size it would be to big so they are a barn door size - thank you for watching
Great video. Lovely van. Now you’ve had the van a while, do you ever wish you’d gone for the pop top or the LWB? I have a SWB, pop top and I’m wondering whether to go for a high top LWB! Thanks for sharing.
Hi Sylvia first thanks for watching and commenting. Re the pop top v high top no it’s the best decision we made as it gives you so much perm storage space and means you don’t have to move stuff around like I’m the pop top ie for us the van is always set up really and ready to go. The fact we can stand in any weather is a plus. Height barriers has not been a real issue as there is always alternatives …. If you have a small family I can see why. Re LWB we thought about that recently and as we had the extra height with a H2 giving extra storage from a lwb gave us little other than maybe challenges parking in some situations - however everyone’s needs are different so it’s something seriously challenge yourself with
@@getawaygeese Thanks, that’s really helpful.
Great vid. Great van.
Thanks for commenting and subscribing .... glad you enjoyed it. It’s quite an old video so we were a bit green. Last video to Whitby we have changed our style and taking a bit more care on audio and narration
loved your vid on the camper van, we are actually looking for a very similar set up and we are new to the camper van scene.can you tell me if its compulsory for a habitation certificate for the van and also if we go for a van conversion is this something that we tell the motor insurance or do we just insure it as a van?.also as regards road tax price and MOT...what would we be looking at, is an MOT for the van similar in price to a car and is the road tax any more in comparison to taxing a normal transit van. many thanks again for a enjoyable and educational vid on the camper van and what to possibly go for.i do like the vw t5-6..but I also noticed that the ford transit campers can be cheeper in price, which is a plus and they're still a really nice van. many thanks again...wayne
Hi Mike thanks for watching and commenting obviously ours was a built to order from autocampers. A habitation cert I don’t believe is compulsory but we do it every year for our piece of mind. We didn’t get one with the new van as it was new. However I would say a great question to any custom builder to see how they handle quality checks etc.
definitely you need to declare it to the insurance if you are converting. They will insure based on what it is and what you have done with the dvla. I advise to to ask the conversion company if they are going to manage the change on the documents to a motor home vehicle. I see recently a lot of challenges getting that done as there are requirement to be met and evidence to ensure the van has certain element to be classed formerly as a motor home vehicle. Worth YouTubing self builders who have done that so you can ask the right question. I didn’t do it myself as autocampers did it for me as we bought a new van and they converted from them
Road tax will re dependent upon the classification of the van, age etc ours is 275
Re insurance you need to insure it for what is so our as above has been re registered as a motor caravan rather than a van. Check on other forums if you can leave it as a van - not 100% sure of the implications
Price was a point for us as it was at the time 8k cheaper and we felt looked better and bigger inside. You will get vw lovers and ford lovers and also haters. Key is define what you want - high roof or pop top - biggest change we made to our thoughts before we bought
@@getawaygeese many thanks for getting back to us, and cheers for the answers to my questions on road tax, habitation certificate etc....another thing we will be looking for is the high top, rather than the pop top...I would imagine with wear n tear the cloth on the pop top would eventually want replacing almost like a soft top car hood would deteriorate over time, and the high top I think is much better.the way your van looks is exactly what would appeal to us, i think we would be looking to spend in the region of 25-30 thousand on a good second hand one, maybe a little more money given the right van at the timeout we are well looking forward to buying our first camper and the freedom it brings.many thanks for the advice and thoroughly enjoying your vids which give us a good idea of what we can look forward to. cheers wayne
Huge benefit for us as two people only is the extra storage which means also the van is set so when you stop you are not constantly moving stuff around … didn’t realise it at the time but a big plus for us. That extra space is massive as most of clothes and 50% of food and all my tech plus screens is above the standard height. Also don’t under estimate both seats turning especially the drivers although you give up slightly on cupboard space but the space it gives again for us works . Autocampers sell second hand even if it is to get a feel it’s worth going sitting in a few vw or fords and all sorts to see if you can live ….
I love your Harry !👍👍💙💙
Thank you for your comment .... it suits us well small but packs all features we value
Great vlog, that's a fab van - oodles of storage so perfect for 2 unless you have lots of height restricted car parks to deal with in every day life! We test drove a 170PS auto campers Transit MRV and I have to say I was very impressed indeed. The 2 side doors make a huge difference and the movable seats in the MRV make it a hugely flexible space. In the end we went for a 4motion VW as I wanted AWD and the vehicle to be slightly thinner overall as ours is primarily a family car rather than camper van but Harry Ford looks perfect for you guys. Subscribed so very much looking forward to following your adventures :)
Thanks for your comments and hope you enjoy all the other videos. It’s a very personal journey about selecting the right van as you say. You have establish must have should have could haves. Hope you enjoy your van as much as we do
Over the years of your ownership, did you ever find an issue with the height and height barriers, or have any senior moments regarding height? Also, what would you say is a typical real-world mpg for your engine? I sold my old Vivaro camper a few weeks back, and will be selling my car in the next few weeks. I'm looking at getting just one new or newish vehicle, that needs to be both for the odd short trip around home but mainly camping weekends. Not sure the forward yet, but the SWB Custom looks great and particularly like ergonomics of the H2 version.
Regarding height - yes there are barrier car parks but I can say it never stopped us going to a location as you can always find somewhere to park - in France in popular locations they sometimes ban any camping car ( van ) from prime beachside car parks but they always provide somewhere else
The amount of permanent storage a h2 gives means when you stop you are not constantly moving stuff around plus in high winds etc you can still stand up
Sorry re mog we get an honest 30 but it’s a 170ps and an auto if I had my time over I may go for a 130 ps as another subscriber we met was getting 50mpg
Hi thanks for posting. Looks to be one of the best conversions in terms of design and equipment. Are you still happy with it? Would you have added/removed anything from your spec?
Hi Steve - we are shortly going to do a 3 year review. In the main for us it suits us , the auto higher PS spec is a perfect cruising machine. As just two of us the high top gives us so much more space and the short wheelbase allows to get anywhere. We are thinking of going for a gas low conversion to get us lpg as well as camping Gaz adapter. The leisure model again suits us. I would go for an all road terrain tyre personally and will change when these tyres need replacing
@@getawaygeese thanks for taking the time to reply. Would you mind explaining why the lpg?
It will give us some options when we go into Europe as camping Gaz may not always be free equally lpg is not always so it will it give us options
Table good construction 👍
It’s very good and has many positions so a great design to the fixed position tables you see
Thanks for the tour and I do have a question. Was the van converted form a commercial van as I wondered about the single passenger seat and whether this was custom bought in to replace a double. We're having our newish panel van converted and it's got the double front seat, but changing it over to a single seems to be a bit of an unkown.
Hi thanks for watching and your question. We bought the van from Autocampers who customised it from a new ford transit custom and I believe they installed it separately although not 100% sure - not sure if that helps
Also interested in this, only option I can find is an eBay seller that imports them from European left hand drive models. Cost around £650. Be good to know if there’s alternative/cheaper options that don’t involve questionable modifications to fit a different manufacturer seats!
I eventually bought one from Poland and it’s like new.
Don’t know if this helps but Those Happy Days recently added one in this video towards the end maybe worth reaching out got them ua-cam.com/video/toPGPkdAtXE/v-deo.html
@@SimonBoothPhotography can I ask how much you paid?
Alright, great review of the transit, I also have the same model van. Looking to fit a wind out awning like yours. Most companies have said it can’t be done because of the angle on the side but I know brackets could be made or purchased. Do you have the info on the your awning and the brackets please. Would save us a lot of running about and asking more companies about it. Many thanks steve
Hi Daz thanks for watching and commenting - so this can was fitted out by autocampers and I have been asked before. I believe there is a bracket for fiamma I will see if I can find the link but I have never purchased or fitted it so bear that in mind - bear with me
Does this help you need to see I guess what your awning is and speak to fiamma www.fiammastore.com/Fiamma-F45s-Ti--and-Zip-Awning-Adapter-Brackets/Fiamma-Kit-Ford-Transit-High-Roof-Adapter-Bracket-
Looking at mine looks like Autocamper have put a rubberised Packer between the plate and the awning
www.fiammastore.com/Fiamma-F45s-Ti--and-Zip-Awning-Adapter-Brackets/Fiamma-Kit-Ford-Transit-High-Roof-Adapter-Bracket-
Excellent review, thank you. We have a VW California, but I prefer yours, with the high roof and extra storage. Is the gearbox a DSG type?
Thankyou that was such a long time ago before we really knew what we were doing and I am trying update the review but we don’t regret the high top I have to say
Sorry I did not answer your question - I don’t believe it is I had an auto vw eos so I think the Ford auto is slightly different - to be honest I personally think it’s better than the DSG it feels very smooth and with the 170ps it has good pull up hills and to overtake
Does that answer what you wanted if not I can do some more digging
@@getawaygeese Excellent much appreciated.
No worries
Hi. Nice detailed video. Not sure if I missed it but could you tell me the standing head height? Being 6'1 I feel I may be slightly to tall for this variant of transit. Thanks in advance. .All best.
I am on a trip at the moment and no tape measure lol but I am 5 10 and head just touches so another 3 inches you won’t be able to fully stand unless in skylight area lol 😂
@@getawaygeese Hello no problems thank you for the quick reply. Story of my life hunched over in the back of a high top 🤣
I was debating fitting the biggest skylight I can find or perhaps skipping on the floor insulation to save the head height 🫥
@AboveGroundLevel. The alternative is a H3 height van I guess or you simply stoop a little as you dont stand up all the time
Hi GAG. Great van. I’ve recently bought a Transit Custom H2L1 and I was wondering how your awning was fitted to the Van? Any Help would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Luke - we bought an Autocampers conversion so they fitted the fiamma - I understand there are fitting brackets for the awning for a h2
I have some photos of the van and brackets in situ that may help you but need your email address
I also bought a Transit custom L2H2 and I got the same question about the awning. Maybe you could send me some photos and a link? My email: Lina.steenken@gmail.com
Thank you
Hi Lina - just sent email hopefully you can see but also a link I found but can’t say for certain. Only advice is overdo the sealing as ford on the roof side by drivers door are prone to moisture leaks running down a frame and into the bcu that is by steering wheel. Sounds daft but it’s badly positioned in a water run and can cause challenges with wipers etc - I have had challenges
Sorry to bother you again. Did you get the second side door added or with the van? It's so hard trying to find a L1H2 with 6 doors. Cheers.
No worries it came with it from new - not sure what the new model is like
Could u use the front seats as a bed, with a special foam cover custom? What is the length and the width available in inches or feet please if possible?
So i have seen a bunk type approach where there is a stretcher type of bed installed for children. I guess you could have some sort of board across the seats created with foam but then you need to store it. I know in the uk some go for a pop type roof with bed arrangement.
Saw this today online facebook.com/groups/fordtransitcustomcampervan/permalink/587985979460823/?sale_post_id=587985979460823
It is a brilliant camper!
Well it works for us - sone want bigger fixed beds and showers I think it’s all down to your wants - we like the ease to park etc - thanks for watching and above all commenting
Nice and exciting. But that bed looked very narrow for 2 people. Can you tell me the width / size of that bed?
Enjoy!
Thanks for your comment ..... we wondered how we would get on with the bed but it’s surprisingly large enough for us and don’t feel cramped. We put an extra duvalay topper which is 1140mm wide
Hi again Stew. I'm just wondering how do you cover the front windscreen and side windows please? Do these have curtains or magnetic covers, etc? EDIT: Also, you mention 40L water and waste (grey) tanks - is there a filling nozzle somewhere, and what about emptying the grey, is there an outlet valve somewhere? Many thanks in advance.
Hi - So we have various options over the 4.5 years and some depends on your mode of camping.
We have internal thermal screens we bought off auto campers that do the front and side door windows. Padded and reflective and use suckers. We use these wild camping as they are internal so if you have to drive off you can
We then bought expensive external rainbow screens ( we have a video ) which go on the outside and you don’t get any condensation on the in - we bout a Velcro extra do the windscreen part can half come down in the day. We would only use these if we were in campsites most if the time and are really good although now we wild camp mostly and you don’t want an external screen if you are doing that in case you have to drive off
We also installed a cab curtain - again we have a video showing us fitting this and this has been really useful - it can be used in conjunction with above but we often wild camping just draw them and no screens
Hope that makes sense on options
@@getawaygeese By golly - you have endless videos, just spent a minute looking and can't see the curtain one, mostly Ireland ones. Would you be kind enough to link it please? Thanks in advance.
@@chrisyates399 ua-cam.com/video/zMyNaA_PV1U/v-deo.html
@@chrisyates399 if you go to the main channel pages and click videos they are all there I am trying to sort playlists to show various categories
@@getawaygeese Thanks, Stew. Also, you mention 40L water and waste (grey) tanks - is there a filling nozzle somewhere, and what about emptying the grey, is there an outlet valve somewhere? Many thanks in advance.
Hi there. I currently have a 6 berth motorhome but due to my husband passing I haven’t the courage to drive it & would like to downsize, this van looks a great possibility. Would my Labrador fit in when bed down ? 🦆💕
Hi Pam thanks for watching and commenting - and sorry for your loss. Yes for two this is a good size and compromise when the bed is down there is enough space at the bottom I would say. If it’s specific an auto camper it doesn’t have a separate toilet / shower area. Always a big debate but if you needed one there may be other custom fitters who create a space. We decided we didn’t need one as happy with porta loo or use site facilities. But from a van size and a bed yes there is room
@@getawaygeese Thank you for your helpful reply - happy travels 🦆💕
Thank you.
You're welcome! - thanks for watching
Nice, please mpg , or kpl ,
Gas or diesel?
What wheelbase u have? Which is the longest?
Thanks,
Diesel - Two litre - auto - highline height h2 in Ford manual - swb ( exact size off Ford uk website but 5metre - 30 mpg
Oh Ford do longer wheelbases see their site but autocampers offer two variances swb and lwb which is 300mm longer roughly
@@getawaygeese thanks
There's a handbrake modification where you can push the handbrake down and it stays on, allowing you to swivel the chair without taking the handbrake off. I'm really surprised auto campers didn't install that.
Yeah strange enough I saw that on another conversation the other day on UA-cam - would definitely be easier for a manual - auto not as bad as I use park - thanks for watching and commenting
@Coquillages do you know who makes the modified handbrake?
@@rorymakesstuff I think Reimo and RIB make them as well as others. Search for handbrake lowering kit or handbrake mod for camper. I'd never do what this guy does.
@@Coquillages thanks, never seen one advertised specifically for the Transit Custom but will take a look.
Thank you great video saving a sheep , your now honorary Welsh people 😂😂 well done good luck both 👍👍👍🏴🏴🇬🇧🇨🇦🦢
Thankyou for this comment to
Great video,can you tell me if you have room to use the toilet in the van at night with bed out. Thanks
Hi Peter - sorry for late reply - yea we pull it out and allows space between end of the bed and the front seats - this was critical as also if one wants to stay up late reading there is room sitting in front seats with leg room to . They do a long wheelbase now to do that will give you even more room - thanks for watching
Many thanks for the reply,me and wife love watching your blogs.
Yep slowed down recently but planning to do a few year 2 van reviews etc soon
We have caravan at present but I would like to do a van conversion,I am 5ft 10 would there be enough room to stand in custom high top. Thanks
I am 5 10 su just brush top - so it doesn’t bother me .... I think they do a h3 ie a higher transit
Very nice practical set up, well done. Where was this filmed ?? Happy Trails,
Hi thanks for watching and commenting - Shropshire in the hills above Church Stretton
@@getawaygeese Great thanks for that, I watched a few of your video's with much apprecation, Awesome and very entertaining, Thanks for posting them and keep up the good work.
Appreciate that we are getting back out there now lockdown is lifting so should start to record
Great video i am at this moment looking for a van , what was the full height of your van ?
Shaun Mckenna hi Shaun thanks for the comment we are enjoying the sun I mid Wales - first time since lockdown yeah .... so it’s an L1 H2 ford but has a roof light so my manual say max height 2440mm. I know when we were looking we thought pop top and barriers- however so glad we went high top for two of us as way more storage and less moving stuff around. To be honest in 2 years we have gone to one spot and had to turn around due to a barrier and simply went 1mile up the road. Other dimensions 4972mm length although they now do long wheelbase if you are thinking auto campers and width 2080. This is bigger in my opinion than vw inside but that’s a personal choice and fit out design really. Gross weight 3000
@@getawaygeese Thank you for your reply very helpful enjoy your trip Wales is beautiful to tour.
Hi after useing your campervan do you have any regret not going for the long wheel base cheers Steve
For us no we think the van will get down those lanes and into parking spaces so it allows us to travel like a car .... however you decision us on space ( you never need as much as you think ) plus it’s what you decide as must have in your space .... I think if you want a shower separate toilet area go lwb but everyone I see uses the shower as a store as you have to carry the water - so now it’s down to the loo. Would not go pop top if two of you the extra storage stops you having to move stuff when you park up
@@getawaygeese thanks for the replys your advice is appreciated cheers Steve
Ps it's always a compromise between space and practical driving ect as this would be my daily drive only transport i feel the swb could be best
Great review and we love your vlogs. In fact we're considering getting that same van thanks to you! Any additional advice you could give regarding the add ons please? Things you wish you'd purchased and haven't, and vice versa? Also, can you wild camp for more than one night or do the batteries run out. Thanks and enjoy your travels with Harry!
Hi thanks for the comment and glad you enjoyed and helped inform you. Definitely go for a diesel heater as you don’t have to think about that side. We are considering a conversion to LPG gas flow but with gas adapters for campinggaz that way you get more choice of cooking fuel. Autocampers I believe now offer this so we are just checking. External screens as well as internal we use external when on sites and internal when wild camping. Consider high top fixed if it suits ie if there is just two as storage and ease of use is a definite factor. Re off grid we have so far been off grid 3 days and no issues when there is some sun. Reality is the electric is only for lights and fridge as heater is diesel and cooking is gas ....
@@getawaygeese Hi. Thanks for the information, just about to watch another of your vlogs now!
@@getawaygeese Exciting day for us, we've just paid a deposit for our 'Harry'!
Wow excitement was that with Steve at Winnersh
@@getawaygeese Yes it was, now have to be patient till April! 😀
Nice vehicle. I like the layout - but they are currently between £50k - £60k!! No way is the conversion worth that.
Thanks for watching they were 46 with all the options we had but that was before a Ford price increase going through 4 years ago …
I've been sat on your comment for a day or so. And I completely get what you are saying regarding the price. But I have to say in fairness that one of the reasons we went for this van in particular and from this company (we felt at the time ) was its quality and price compared to a VW. A VW is actually what we set out to buy originally but we found it was over 10 grand (and some) more expensive than the Ford. Looking today VWs are in the 60 to 75 grand region brand new. I feel i have to speak up as the workmanship (as we've had some things added to Harry since we got him) and the service that we've had from this company after 5 years has been exceptional. That to us this has been priceless. We have friends who nearly lost 30 grand by not buying right. Harry is our forever van and we stand by this company not only being exceptional in its price but its after service. Btw we aren't affiliated or sponsored by this company but I feel strongly that a good company needs a shout out. And this company cares. I know theres cheaper ways of doing it. Cheaper conversions - some good and some atrocious. You pays your money you takes your chance. Sign of a great van - would I buy the same van from the same company again - absolutely 100%. Jane 😊
Good points. I'm glad it all worked out for you. No doubt, your van does look very handsome. I've noticed the SWB L1H2 Customs before and they certainly stand out as a vehicle for practical daily use as well as a camper.
We love Harry so much as you can tell. Nice after all these years that we feel like that. But dont get me wrong - I absolutely understand what you say about the prices 100% You could save yourself a fortune if you could do it yourself - or have a trusted converter. New van prices are eye watering generally aren't they. Jane 😊
Fantastic.
Thank you for your comment glad you enjoyed
I'd planned to be in full time van life by now, sadly with all that's going on this isn't the case. Whilst I'd hoped to visit the nec and decide on the set up for me, this is currently on hold. However your no nonsense video, along with others gives me a good idea, of what I need or desire. Ocean marco polo are lovely vans but I like the high roof idea, the more I research the idea of a shower brings into the equation the Hymer ayers rock, recent purchase by travelling togs. All are helping.
Once again thanks.
Stay safe
Lee
I must admit if I had the money I do like the look of their Ayers Rock .... high top for me is a must for us and we are not full time so a serious consideration ..... good luck and I am sure this will be over at some stage
Much prefer a high top- plenty of roof tents available including insulated ones for extra people.
Yep I think the extra storage and permanent height makes it more livable for us - thanks for watching
Miles per gallon ? Where I live, we have gas/Diesel prices between $5.50 - $6.00 per gallon.
Hi thanks for watching - so it did on average 30 uk miles per Uk gallon - fuel prices are all over the place right now and have been up to 2 gbp per litre
@@getawaygeese what doea this mean? 30 mpg? 13 kpl?
Hi i think looking at google uk 30 miles per gallon is 10.2 km per litre
Interesting that Westfalia are now choosing this van over the VW. They just change the name to a Ford Nugget!
Yes I have seen the nugget it’s a bit of a strange roof line but interesting that it’s getting more credibility as an option. I like the vw but was more expensive and for us smaller it’s all a choice I guess - thanks for watching and taking time to comment
Which brackets did you use for the Fiamma F45?
Hi James - thanks for subscribing. Harry is a built custom van by auto campers so not sure what they used - happy to send a close up picture if it helps but you need to send me your email address
GetawayGeese thank you. Email address is van@custom2camper.co.uk. Many thanks.
Just sent pics and a link on I think the type but can’t say for certain
James Houlston that email address failed
@@getawaygeese oops sorry. It is mail@custom2camper.co.uk
👏👏👏
Thank you for your handclaps and watching I hope you enjoyed
how are you getting with your mattress topper.
Hi - we needed it for our backs so we notice the difference probably around 1.5" thick - its not cheap but made to measure the van layout. Good quality - you have to compromise on space when its rolled up - what we do is we roll the topper the duvet sheets etc all up and put a strap around so really fast making the bed
Company is Duvalay
Morning all,
The reason why I was asking is, we are waiting for delivered of our camper-van from auto campers (mrv), hopefully within the next 4 weeks. We would like add a topper to the bed.so I was just checking you were happy with the topper what you have order.
,and which one.
When you get to our age you do need a good night sleep
😂😂😂
hope you enjoy the van as much as we do we think the design and lay out is fab and suits us perfectly ....
Hi 5 years on would you say it's been reliable ? 🙂
Yes both from a van and a conversion point of view - the van has a few issues in the first year all defy with under warranty - conversion wise we have upgraded a few things to suit us like lpg / gas / rust prevention / kitchen / lights - had an issue with the skylight after 4 years needed re seating
But generally is been ok
@@getawaygeese thankyou the reason I ask is I can only drive automatic and need a high top van for full-time as I'm giving everything up. I'm done with bad Nabours Bills etc etc I'm truly done
@Billy88London ah I see well we only drive autos and have to say that’s the fav part for me is the gear box - I think I would have the 130ps as you get better mpg and if your in no rush that would be more efficient than the 170. As ever online you will see negatives of all models and I am sure many true - the very belt design is supposed to be a flaw but like I say you only hear noise from those that have a bad one - but I would say that happens in all models - the height is about 5 9.5 in side my head just brushes top on the L1 H2 but I couldn’t do a lower pop top
Were Is the shower?
Hi no internal shower or bathroom you can have an external water point … one of the decisions on a short wheelbase
Hey I'm back :D I's this a L2 H2?
No it an L1 H2 - they now do an L2 which was about another 12 inches in length I think ….. not sure what the new custom gives you these days
Hi Can you let me know where the leisure battery is keeped
Hi Troy yes it’s under the large cupboard at the bottom in a compartment
I too was goingbfor the transporter because of style but cant justify the price, think i will go for a custom shell and get a a joiner to design bedvand units i also like the tongue annd groove panels all the way round.
But a gree i love the kitchen set out for outdoor use too
Yes the only thing on outside is they have the proud burners so you can access I would like a flush flip lid kitchen style but you need to be able to detach if you want to access the outside
Not sure about adblue though??
Hi Thanks for commenting ..... in what way do you mean. I must admit first vehicle we have had with it but quite a few models in the UK with this
@@getawaygeese it’s one of the things that’s been putting me off the vehicle as I’ve heard that it’s expensive and needs to be topped up regularly,also the vehicle will not move without it so presumably you need to store spare bottles. I don’t know much about it so maybe wrong .I actually like the look of the ford swb and the fact that it’s slightly bigger and cheaper than the vw. It can be automatic and looks as if driving would be easier for me as I’m no longer a spring chicken !!
Hi well it’s probably around 6000 miles but I top up every 2 to 3 trips so no problem as I store it in the garage so to be honest I don’t notice it. We chose the ford for that reason as was about 6-8k cheaper than the VW depending on spec. The auto box we get 32 mpg and to be honest a joy to drive
@@getawaygeese many thanks. At present my husband does all the driving as I feel unsure about it especially abroad but he’s not as well as he was. We drive a 6metre Fiat Ducati but if we get so no longer travelling abroad this looks like a good every day vehicle as well which I could cope with 😃😘
We have yet to venture abroad as Ireland was cancelled but plan to do so but I must admit a little nervy myself
what are those seats! i must know haha
Sorry just checked - They are just hi gear ‘Maine’ from go out doors I would just double check folded height in case they have changed the model - weirdly cheap but for us comfortable
Having to take off the hand brake to turn the chair is a glaring design fault for obvious reasons!
Thanks for watching - no issue for us really as it’s an auto with park on - I think the manual has a lower handbrake but not sure
Can u stand up ? I'm 6ft?
I am 5 10 and my head just touches rough so at 6 you will need to slightly stoop
Boring
Well thanks for watching if it’s the video style we have tried to improve recently as this was an early video - if you mean the van design then it’s each to there own as we always say. Appreciate the feedback