Found my Van to Convert

[Seon]

As I mentioned in another thread that I wanted to change over from my Yukon XL to a van so that I can convert it for use on those multi days solo fishing trips.
I searched craigslist for several weeks and today found and bought from the original owner a 2010 Ford E350 window van with only 56k original miles.

Before starting the the interior conversion, I need to buy and install a class IV trailer hitch and a 7 pin harness.  So many to choose from so rather than buying the wrong hitch and 7 pin harness, I thought I'd ask recommendations on what brand and part number hitch and which 7 pin harness that's a plug and play.

Getting dark now so will take pictures and post in a day or two.

[jackiemac]

Congratulations!  I know nothing about hitches.   

[phil-t]

I would check out e-trailer.com.  They have good stuff and should list by application.

[Gizmo100]

I would check out e-trailer.com.  They have good stuff and should list by application.

They also offer tech support to help you get the right stuff and get it installed right the first time.

[Seon]

Will call e-trailer on Monday, thx.

Another question, is your conversion van registered as a commercial or RV, or passenger vehicle?

[Gary RV_Wizard]

I need to buy and install a class IV trailer hitch and a 7 pin harness.

Not a whole lot to discuss there. A Class IV hitch receiver is a standard size & shape, and the weight capacity is pretty much defined by it being Class IV (up to 10,000 lbs).  The mounting brackets for the receiver will be unique to the van chassis.  Most Class IV receivers are the 2" receiver size, but a few are offered in the 2.5" size.  2" is fine and there are numerous ball mounts available for 2" receivers.

https://www.reese-hitches.com/learning_center/general-towing-classes
The 7-pin trailer connector is also industry-standard, though there may be some differences in how the wires are connected at installation. That's custom to your needs and not an attribute of the connector. There are two basic styles, though, one with blades for the connection and the other with pins. I think the blade type is industry standard for RV trailers.

The type of ball mount you put in the receiver for trailer-towing has more choices, e.g. weight-distributing (WD) or not, adjustable height, whether it has a a bracket for a friction sway control, the type of WD bar mounts, etc. Those decisions are mostly driven by the size of the trailer and style of the WD if you use that. A subject unto itself, I think.

[Seon]

Thx Gary.  A cl IV is probably an over kill for my 6k TT but heck, cl III and IV prices are about the same.
As mentioned, I'll call e-trailer on Monday and order those parts I mentioned.

[phil-t]

Will call e-trailer on Monday, thx.

Another question, is your conversion van registered as a commercial or RV, or passenger vehicle?

Registration type might be determined by the state you register in.  In NY, my motorhome is registered as a "passenger vehicle".  Not sure if that is determined by NY with some kind of documentation or not.
Your best bet would be to call your state's DMV, find out what options there might be and go from there.

[Seon]

Thx Phil-T.  I planned on calling DMV tomorrow.  In CA most all window passenger vans are registered as Private vehicle and not commercial.  This that I just bought has Commercial plates and in the title, why (?) I don't know.
I'll request to have it changed when I register it.

Fishing boat and camp trailer are parked in the barn and on hold till Spring so converting this van will keep me busy and not get bored  .

[Mr C]

As mentioned above, Etrailer has good info as well as some great videos.
I followed thier vidioes to wire my brake controller and new 7 pin plug.

[Seon]

I was able to wire and install front and rear camera, also running side boards.  Still waiting for trailer hitch due to arrive by next week.
Here's a pic of my 2010 e350.  I still need to find a buyer for the near new wheel chair lift before removing.

[Ex-Calif]

I love this project and vehicle selection - I look forward to more posts as you go through the conversion....

No one ever wanted a smaller hitch... My RV could easily tow 5,000 pounds (we are pretty light empty) but only has a 3500# hitch.

If the vehicle will tow more than 5,000 go with the class 4...

My desired load is a small car and my bike - Calculated weigh in including an aluminum trailer is around 4,000# - grrrrrr.....

[edjunior]

Is that the V8 or V10 in there?  My brother has a 2005 with the 5.4L V8 and he has pulled a medium size cargo trailer from southern Florida to the Rocky Mountains and all points in between.  He's never had an issue with it.  It's been a great van for him, and I know it will be for you also.

[Seon]

Is that the V8 or V10 in there? 

5.4 L.

I've read that this motor will do the job. Thx

BTW still waiting for my trailer hitch due for delivery by this Tuesday.

[phil-t]

Great project, keep the PICs coming along. 

[Seon]

Not a biggie but mounted side steps on yesterday.  An easy install.

[Seon]

I was able to remove the stock rear bench seat (wow was is heavy).

Replaced with a van convertible seat/sofa.

[jackiemac]

Fabulous!

[Mr C]

I like the looks of those steps!

[Ex-Calif]

Love that couch...

[Seon]

Took delivery on the cl IV trailer hitch yesterday so will be installing it today and post pics later.

At any event, this van has a wheel chair lift that's in very good condition.  OP said they used the van and lift only for Doctors appointment thus the low mileage.

I'd like to donate the lift to someone or an organization that can use it. I'm located in the Sacramento, Ca area.  I called a couple local handicap businesses but aren't interested.

[Lynx0849]

The DOT Private use marking would certainly preclude any business from using it.
Maybe there are volunteer groups that try to find medical equipment for those in need?

[phil-t]

The DOT Private use marking would certainly preclude any business from using it.

That is just darned "sticker" 

[Seon]

I called several handicap businesses with no luck. I've listed it on craigslist but no replies.
I'll give it another week or two then it goes to the dumps. I have no room to store.
OP said they paid over $5k installed.
Sad...I'm sure someone could use it.

BTW I finished the hitch installation.  Quite easy.

[Lynx0849]

When my mom & then my wife passed, it took me a bit to find a group that takes “durable medical equipment” that was pleased to be able to give my walkers, crutches and such to needy people.

Check out the companies that install lifts like you have. Perhaps they would like to do a good deed?