Ford Transit conversion with solar power and additional lighting

The procurement of the Ford Transit

The Ford Transit was purchased in December 2022 through Mobile. The Ford made a very good impression in the photos. The purchase price was 6,000 euros. Unfortunately, since we bought the car in the dark, I was surprised to find rust in the interior after we had emptied it out and inspected it closely in the daylight.

Pictures and technical data of the van before the conversion into a camper

Brand Ford
Modell Transit
Mileage (as of Dec. 2022) 118,000 KM
First registration February 2008
Fuel type Diesel
PS 110 HP ( 81KW )
Gearbox Manual / Gearshift
Vehicle type Transporter
Number of doors 4/5
Inspection valid until Novermber 2023
Environmental badge 4 ( Green )
Emission class Euro4

Planned conversion and checklist

The conversion of the Ford Transit into a camper will be very time-consuming. The points that need to be converted or added for the Ford campervan are listed below:

Electrical installation and expansion

Repairs to paint and bodywork

  • Painting of the rear and front bumpers

  • Rust treatment for the interior

  • Rust treatment for the underbody

  • Rust treatment for the exterior bodywork

  • Painting in olive green

Maintenance and repair of the engine

  • New front headlights

  • Seal the oil pan
  • Replace the front cover

  • Oil change and service

  • New front brakes

  • Off-road tires (for rugged terrain)

Interior (living space) conversion

  • Television and refrigerator

  • Bed frame, mattresses, blankets, and pillows

  • Lighting
  • Wardrobe

  • Decorative walls and ceiling

  • insulation

The conversion of the Ford Transit into a camper van on YouTube

Follow me as I convert the Ford Transit into a camper van. The conversion will be documented and published on YouTube.

Problems with the Ford Transit after the purchase

In December 2022, I purchased a used Ford Transit that I plan to convert into a small camper. However, there are issues with the vehicle.

The first problem is that the engine stalls while idling. When I try to press the accelerator to keep the engine running, it takes a long time for it to respond to the throttle. Sometimes I have to give the pedal small taps to get it running again. This is very frustrating and makes it difficult to drive the vehicle.

The second problem is that the engine exhibits fluctuations in RPM at idle when I apply the throttle continuously and steadily. Fortunately, these fluctuations do not occur while driving, but as soon as I press the clutch, I encounter the issue of the engine stalling at idle again.

I already took the vehicle to the workshop, where they found that some connectors were wet. These were dried out, and a new battery was installed. Additionally, it was discovered that a cover on the throttle body was missing, which should normally be there. This was temporarily covered with duct tape.

Unfortunately, the workshop was unable to access the electronics to identify further problems. The error memory was empty, and they could only read the fuel pressure, which they said was normal. They cannot explain why they were unable to access the electronics.

After the workshops I previously visited were unable to help, I decided to call the ADAC. The ADAC mechanic performed a diagnosis and found that the rail pressure values were fluctuating significantly.

When the fuel pressure regulator was removed, the engine ran better with a replacement value of about 450 bar. The mechanic suggested that I should replace the fuel pressure regulator but could not confirm with certainty whether this was possible for my specific model.

He explained that there are some models where replacing the fuel pressure regulator is not possible because it could cause parts to fall into the engine compartment. Now, I am looking for information on whether I can replace the fuel pressure regulator myself.

Solutions for the 3 problems (engine stalling, engine fluctuations)

The engine problems were resolved very easily. I replaced the diesel pressure sensor. The sensor cost 120 euros and, as described, fixed all the issues. Contrary to the ADAC’s statement, the sensor was replaced and connected without any complications.

Current status of the Ford Transit camper van as of April 2024

Ford Transit conversion with solar power and additional lighting

The current status of the Ford Transit camper van includes the bumpers, lighting, electrical system, the conversion of the cargo area, and the condition of the engine.

The additional lighting (work lights) can be controlled via a remote control, allowing you to operate the lights from a distance.

Especially when sitting around the campfire or needing pathway lighting, the remote control makes it convenient.