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https://www.instagram.com/tanyatheambulance/VIDEO DESCRIPTION:
Discover Tanya, the meticulously converted 2003 E-450 ambulance, now a rugged, low-mileage 4x4 overland camper. Chris and Michelle detail their heavy-duty, aluminum-bodied vehicle build, originally serving as an ambulance for the Skykomish fire department, now transformed into a full-time tiny home on wheels. This extensive ambulance conversion showcases a second, optimized build designed for long-term full-time van life and travel in extreme conditions, especially the snow.
Key Features & Build Details:
Vehicle Specs: 2003 E-450 with a reliable 7.3L diesel engine, purchased with just 50,000 miles. It features a recent 4x4 conversion and a significant lift (5-inch front, 6-inch rear) for superior off-road capability. The vehicle maintains approximately 11 miles per gallon.
Insulation & Climate Control: Ideal for winter van life, the build uses two inches of foam insulation behind an inch and a quarter beadboard, ensuring the cabin stays warm. Heating is managed by a Suburban propane forced air heater, and moisture is controlled by proper ventilation.
Bedroom & Comfort: The primary motivation for the second build was a permanent, comfortable queen-size bed. It's mounted high to create a spacious garage area underneath. A Wolf Mat system is used to circulate air and prevent mold and mildew under the mattress, a common RV problem.
Kitchen & Appliances: The kitchen boasts a three-burner 17-inch propane stove and oven, allowing for full meal preparation (cookies, pizzas, etc.). The couple uses a single propane system for the stove, heater, and Gerard on-demand hot water heater. They installed a deep, under-mount sink and custom poly-sealed pine countertops. The fridge is a power-efficient, slide-out Dometic chest fridge.
Custom Cabinetry & Storage: Michelle designed and built the interior woodwork, which includes a handy garbage and recycling drawer and a large pantry area. They intentionally retained some of the original, heavy-duty ambulance cabinets for storage of books and games.
Bathroom & Water System: The rig includes a 27-inch neo-angle shower with FRP walls and a full ventilation fan. It uses a convenient cassette toilet. The system is fed by a 55-gallon fresh water tank. For cold weather, an innovative water circulation system and the auto-kicking Gerard hot water heater prevent the lines from freezing.
Electrical System & Power: The system runs off two large 8D deep cycle marine batteries (230Ah each), charged via solar panels and the truck's dual 130-amp alternators. The setup includes a charge controller, inverter, and a detailed command center for monitoring power usage and voltage. Dimmable, efficient LED lights run throughout the ceiling, which is finished with tongue and groove pine.
Unique Exterior Features: The build has ample exterior storage, including a dedicated, Rhino-lined, drainable compartment for wet ski gear. It also features an onboard collapsible hot tub heated by an M67 military immersion heater, perfect for enjoying nature. For connectivity, they use weBoost cellular antennas (omnidirectional and directional) to ensure reliable internet access for remote work.
Financial Overview & Lifestyle:
The ambulance was purchased for $8,500. Total conversion costs amount to approximately $40,000, including the initial light build, the extensive second build, and the crucial 4x4 conversion. After a successful three-month road trip from Canada down to California, the couple decided to rent out their house, with Chris working remotely and Michelle having left her teaching position, allowing them to pursue full-time travel life.
Advice for Builders:
Chris and Michelle recommend trying out the vehicle as a basic camper first to determine personal needs before a full build. They also stress the importance of taking the process slow and conducting thorough research on forums and other DIY camper builds.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the E450 Ambulance Camper
01:29 Major DIY Ambulance Camper Upgrades Explained
02:05 Custom Queen Bed and Garage Hack
02:29 Complete DIY Ambulance Camper Kitchen Tour
05:39 Why We Chose Ambulance for Conversion
06:28 DIY Ambulance Tiny Home Living Room Features
07:39 Neo-Angle Shower and Water System Details
08:16 Custom Retractable Screen Door Installation
08:30 Complete Ambulance Electrical System Cabinet
09:51 Swivel Seats and Insulated Cab Curtain
10:27 Expanded Closet Area and Storage Solutions
11:01 Why Winter Van Life is Best for Them
11:55 Building a Collapsible Hot Tub for Camper
12:55 Exterior Tour, Storage, and 4x4 Features
19:27 Advice for Full-Time Camper Life on Road