Another Sprinter convert

[Lighthawk]

I'm a Hawk/Tundra lover and we have enjoyed every trip for the last five years. The rig is amazingly capable and is quite able with 12" of clearance and the power of a V8. But, it's a tight fit for us and access is taller than we might like. I've never been satisfied with the interior fit and finish, and knew I needed to build my own or pay big money. Gas mileage and other factors played into our decision to look for something "ultimate". We are planning a rig that will carry us through our 60's and 70's and why stop there?

I'm also a lover of the Westfalia concept, having owned two of these well thought out German marvels.
I got 18mpg out of our oil cooled '82 which we took from Utah to British Columbia.

I've been admiring the Sprinter vans, which have a broad following. They've been coming to the USA for fifteen years and camper conversions abound. Like another member here at WTW, I noticed when the 4x4 version became available and started actively looking buy one. Long story short, here is the new machine. It's a cargo van, 144 wheelbase with the 3 litre diesel motor and 5 speed auto, with 4x4 hi/low. I'll be using this rig for my business for the next year while planning and installing some of the components to eventually become a replacement for the Hawk. Until then, you will see the Hawk/Tundra out wandering

 

[Bill D]

It looks perfect!
With all that height and no windows to contend with, you will have soooooo much usable space. I'm sure your build will be amazing.

Are you going to install a 70" flatscreen on that back wall, you have enough room

 

[Happyjax]

I have been so tempted to go that route mainly because of the internal access to the living space. I wonder though how well it would negotiate some of the tougher areas like Mogi Dugway and White Rim Trail.... Looks to me that there is enough 4WD to get you into some places but maybe not out....

 

[Marc]

Congrats Andy, looks GREAT! Just insulate and start using. Welcome to the club.

 

[kmcintyre]

I'm in the same boat. Looked at sportswagens, etc. and need/want 4x4. Sprinter w/ 4x4 came out and my dream rig but can't afford it :-( but can dream and will watch your build with envy!

 

[Wandering Sagebrush]

Andy, congrats! I look forward to seeing the build!

 

[ski3pin]

This is exciting! We also have been researching and discussing alternate/additional travel platforms. We are so excited to watch yor process and progress with this project. This is exciting!

 

[Marc]

I have been so tempted to go that route mainly because of the internal access to the living space. I wonder though how well it would negotiate some of the tougher areas like Mogi Dugway and White Rim Trail.... Looks to me that there is enough 4WD to get you into some places but maybe not out....

Lots of Sprinters have run the White Rim.

 

[Missing Link]

Congratulations! I too will be watching your progress. Marc was kind enough to give me a tour of his Sprinter at the Carrizo last spring, very impressive! No doubt, you will enjoy it.

 

[Ted]

Congrats on getting the Sprinter Andy. I know you have the skills to build a top notch interior so, like the others, I look forward to your build.

 

[Lighthawk]

Thanks everyone. It is huge and I've thought about using it for a movie screen at our next outdoor slideshow.

Actually, I have ordered venting windows for the middle panels on both sides and the rear fixed windows. Like Marc, I intend to install a diesel heater under the passenger seat. It's really cool you can use a fuel line tap from the 24.5 gal tank. We are also going to install sound and thermal insulation on the walls and roof right away.

 

[takesiteasy]

Congrats on a great rig. Looking forward to following your build!

 

[RicoV]

Great looking rig, I'm betting you're gonna love it. Can I ask how you're planning to garage it? Height looks to be a bit more than your garage will handle at the moment, but I suppose that could change. Congrats on your find!

 

[Lighthawk]

Nine foot tall van does not fit in my garage, unlike the Tundra/Hawk. We may put up one of those light metal structures . . .

 

[SunMan]

Congrats guys, look forward to the build and seeing where she goes!

 

[Tuff Guy 62]

Congrats Lighthawk. Looking forward to seeing your build pics.

 

[Cayuse]

Looking forward to watching the progress on this. Friends have the 170' WB 4x4 that they are building out and it is a nice platform, surprisingly capable offroad as well.

 

[ETAV8R]

Very cool!
Watching with shock and awe.
You know you can still wander the west with it...Don't leave us!

 

[Lighthawk]

Def not leaving this cool group, ETAV8R!
Sprinter build is a long road for me. I'm just starting.
Meanwhile, the Tundra/Hawk is going strong!

 

[allanb]

Very nice Lighthawk! very nice. Also look forward to following your build.
I am have a few regrets/second thoughts going with the silverado/northstar instead of the mercedes. Especially with the non functioning top on the northstar and zero customer service.
Happyjac: we just saw a 2 wheel drive f150, pulling a ski boat up and over the dug way!