[smitty141]

Hello everyone, I will buy a new Transit van in the next 4 weeks. Here's what I am wanting. 250 148" WB, Mid roof, and I think a 3.7 with 3:73 would fit the bill. Only options that do anything for me are the following.

Interior up package.
No side or rear windows.
Backup camera (maybe).

My main purpose for my purchase is to haul my motorcycle's and to camp in when traveling around the country riding.

Weight wise, 2 bikes and gear, tools, spares and camp gear would be 1500 pounds maybe less. That said I was thinking the 3.7 would work for me. I am about 5 years from retirment, and it would be nice that it would be paid for when I leave the work force.

I have found a good deal on a van locally. What troubles me it has been on there lot since Oct 14. and invoiced June of 14. Was there any issues with the early production models?

And the magic question... With that light of load, what kind of MPG should I expect?

Thanks Smitty

 

[USMC Vet]

smitty141,

Welcome to the forum.
Here are 2 recent threads on the forum regarding m/c hauling, albeit on a 130 wheelbase for the first. Information should still be usefull to you. "130 Wheelbase Motorcycle hauling" & "My twin turbo cycle mover with 14' ramp".
Also look in recent discussions for the many different build threads for many helpful ideas.

Semper Fi

 

[ted]

Welcome to the forum smitty141!

 

[bobojay]

Welcome to the forum. The only real common issue that seems to have shown up on earlier Transits is the water in air filter syndrome. This has been "fixed" in the new production units, and in the earlier ones via a TSB (technical service bulletin) the dealers are supposed to know about, supposed being the key word there. Maybe someone will chime in here with the TSB number so you can make sure it's done on the one you are looking at.

Good luck and we welcome your input on your new unit, likes and dislikes

Edit: just re-read your post. Make sure you get a GREAT deal on one that's been sitting that long. That's a very early production model. Very early!

 

[PeterR]

TSB 15-0074 is described in this thread:

http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/ford-transit-service/9593-air-filter-nightmare.html

and here:

http://vitalysmobileautodiagnostics.com/?s=transit

Here is the thread with 3.7 engine MPG results:

http://www.fordtransitusaforum.com/ford-transit-mileage-mpgs/6137-mpg-3-7l-transit-wagon-van.html

 

[Hudda]

I have found a good deal on a van locally. What troubles me it has been on there lot since Oct 14. and invoiced June of 14. Was there any issues with the early production models?

I wouldn't worry about that. Aside from the drainage/airbox problem it seems early production models don't have teething pains. Ford has been building these in Europe for years so it's not a brand new design for them.

Mine was built in August of '14 and arrived at dealer lot in November. There is a train rail car lag which explains the big gap between invoice, build, and delivery to dealer. Just check the mileage to be sure it's not been driven much. Mine had 14 miles on it.

One thing you might want to think about is the roof height and whether or not you should consider the extended length version. Someone else on this forum who hauls motorcycles posted they regretted not getting the larger van after all. If this is your "riding off into the sunset" retirement hauler you deserve to get what will work best for your long-term needs.

 

[smitty141]

I wouldn't worry about that. Aside from the drainage/airbox problem it seems early production models don't have teething pains. Ford has been building these in Europe for years so it's not a brand new design for them.

Mine was built in August of '14 and arrived at dealer lot in November. There is a train rail car lag which explains the big gap between invoice, build, and delivery to dealer. Just check the mileage to be sure it's not been driven much. Mine had 14 miles on it.

One thing you might want to think about is the roof height and whether or not you should consider the extended length version. Someone else on this forum who hauls motorcycles posted they regretted not getting the larger van after all. If this is your "riding off into the sunset" retirement hauler you deserve to get what will work best for your long-term needs.

I think there is some wisdom in your statement. I would really like to have the tall, extended model. But I struggle with the price point. I just may rethink my purchase.

Thanks everyone for the welcome and info..

Smitty