1996 Ford Ambulance Converted Into a VanLife Luxury Rig
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Americans are taking to a life on the road in record numbers. After all, it’s easy to work from just about anywhere these days.
But prices of traditional recreational vehicles have led prospective VanLifers to consider alternative vehicles. See, for example, this repurposed 1996 Ford Ambulance - opens in new window or tab. converted into a thoughtfully-executed camper.
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The builders executed a thoughtful plan. They carefully selecting essential components—like a soundproofed generator - opens in new window or tab., a roof-top tent - opens in new window or tab., and diesel heater - opens in new window or tab.—to make living off the grid as easy as possible.
Inspiration and Perspiration
Builder Scott Edgerton, a YouTuber and adventurer from Montana, chose an ambulance as the basis for several reasons. First, the vehicle includes stand-up headroom and the rugged construction expected of a ride meant to carry people in need of critical care quickly.
Edgerton notes that ambulances are typically already equipped with upgraded wiring and electrical systems. In addition, they often have an onboard inverter, extra batteries for interior accessories, and a finished interior with cabinets.
An extensive search brought Edgerton to the van that became the “Campulance.” The 1996 Ford was a rare find. It had seen only 77,000 miles of mostly highway use as a transport vehicle in the dry climate of eastern Washington. There was negligible rust thanks to years of storage in a climate-controlled garage. Edgerton became its first private owner when the ambulance provider took it out of service in 2020.
The 7.3-liter PowerStroke turbodiesel engine is well-known by Ford truck fans for its durability and fuel economy. The engine pairs with an original three-speed automatic transmission. So the rig is good for about 15 mpg on the highway–a figure that would make most RV drivers jealous.
All The Comforts of Home
When Edgerton acquired the vehicle, it didn’t need any work under the hood. So he turned his attention to creating an interior with custom fir cabinets in place of the previous metal. He added a propane stove, sink, and fold-out bed for comfortable accommodations.
Edgerton also installed additional sliding windows for natural light and ventilation, along with this tech:
- Three deep-cycle AGM batteries - opens in new window or tab.
When camping, the great outdoors is the primary entertainment. But late at night, it’s good to have something else to watch. So in the living area, a 43-inch Sony 4K television is neatly concealed behind a panel facing the fold-out couch and bed area. The television swivels for viewing inside or out.
Passengers enjoy ample storage areas, including a six-foot-high shelved closet for clothing. There are numerous other cubbies. Finally, and perhaps best of all, a custom tent annex is included, which dramatically expands the living area.
If you want to spend next summer on the road, you can start building now and sweat over the next several months. Or put this well-priced, ready-to-go Campulance - opens in new window or tab. in your driveway and start plotting your adventures.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.