2013 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT XLT CAMPER VAN

76,646 MILES | VENTURA, CA | $20,500 | 920.544.2085 | NJPTACEK@GMAIL.COM

BACKGROUND + MAINTENANCE

This van is small, but mighty. I chose it because it’s the most compact and fuel efficient option on the market for a camper van. 2013 was the last year Ford made the high roof model of this van. I am the second owner, and purchased it used in 2015 at 10,000 miles. I live less than a mile from work and have worked from home since March 2020, and have driven the van cross country and back 5 times, so these are all highway miles. Clean title.

  • 23/28 MPG; range varies from 340-390 miles per tank

  • Sync Bluetooth sound system

  • Cruise control

  • Double sliding doors make for great access and ventilation

  • Rear side by side doors can unhinge (non-locking)

  • Two keys included

I’ve maintained a meticulous maintenance schedule through Neighborhood Car Care, a reputable mechanic here in Ventura. New Firestone tires and new brakes were installed at ~70,000 miles. Of note, the transmission was rebuilt by DMC at 59,566 miles, and didn’t hold, so a brand new OEM Ford transmission was installed at 65,117 miles. The torque converter was also replaced. I can personally attest that the new transmission is solid: I’ve driven it from California to Minnesota and back, and to Utah and back, and have had absolutely no problems.

Minor issues include a lazy adjustment on the driver’s side armrest (either up or down, no in between), and a broken switch for the main cabin light (the light works, but the plastic switch snapped off. Easy repair). A few scuffs and dings; it’s an adventure vehicle. Overall extremely clean.

THE BUILD

I have some carpentry experience and did this entire build myself. It is clean and simple, with attention to detail and quality, maximizing storage space, versatility, and functionality. This setup is private, low-key, and secure; great for stealth camping in urban environments and rest areas. The full size bed comfortably sleeps two. The ability to just crawl in the back and sleep without exiting the vehicle or having to make up a bed is a huge bonus. I am 6-0” and can sit upright, which is great for riding out rain storms or just hanging out when stealth camping. There is a lantern hook above sleeping area, and a 12v charging port in cargo area.

Pass through storage under the platform is perfect for long items (skis, etc.) or could be upgraded with slide out drawers, if desired. It is sized to fit the height of a Yeti cooler (I’ve used a 35 and 45). Magnetic, motion-sensor, rechargeable LED light bars under the platform that automatically light up when you open the doors. The platform can be unmounted and removed for cargo hauling.

MATERIALS

The building materials are high quality and environmentally minded. Sound deadening mats were applied throughout (everywhere except the roof), followed by recycled cork insulation, with underlayment below the subfloor. Reflectix and foam panels were used for wall panel insulation. The platform is built on a 3/4” Forest Stewardship Council Certified (FSC) birch plywood base, and made from 1/2” FSC birch plywood on an FSC pine frame with metal edge reinforcements. The wall panels are also 1/4” FSC birch. Everything was finished with tung oil and multiple coats of urethane clear coat.

INCLUDED ACCESSORIES

  • Sun reflector shade with reversible sides for summer (reflective foil) and winter (black felt)

  • Weathertech rain gutters

  • Weathertech rubberized floor mats

  • Carhart duck canvas seat covers

  • Snow chains (brand new)

  • Lucid Mattress (full size, converts to couch)

  • VanTech roof rack

  • Rechargeable magnetic LED motion sensor lights (charging cable included)

WHY I’M SELLING

I love this van but I recently purchased rural property with no established road access, so I bought a new vehicle with AWD and higher clearance. The next owner will surely have many adventures for years to come; wiith proper maintenance it should easily last another 100k miles, or more. I want to make sure it goes into good hands.