Up next Overlanding the Scottish Highlands Published on July 23, 2021 Author John Pangilinan Photo Credit Gene Pascua Tags 2006 Ford E350, 2006 Ford E350 Super Duty van, 4x4 conversion, airing down, airing up, diesel engine, dual steering damper kit, Gene Pascua, John Pangilinan, off road van, onboard water tank, recovery boards, roof rack, shock towers, Super Duty van, Suspension, vanlife, winch, Share article Facebook 0 Twitter 0 Mail 0 No Ordinary Family Van: 2006 Ford E350 Super Duty 4×4 Conversion 2006 Ford E350 Super Duty van 4×4 conversion Since 1996, Ken Montes designed, developed and mass-produced automotive components. His desire to create and invent products started at a young age. It eventually led him to launch his own company, Agency 6. A passion for the outdoors and activities such as camping, snowboarding and hunting motivated him to start the company. He realized there was a lack of functional products in the marketplace for his lifestyle. His vision and goal are to create products with the user in mind. He decided upon a Ford E350 Super Duty van 4×4 conversion. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter … after using his 2006 Ford E350 Super Duty van for work-related projects, Ken decided to convert it to a family-hauler built for adventure. Agency 6 created and manufactured American-made camping products. This includes items such as shovels and tools, as well as off-road vehicle components. This includes recovery hitch blocks, fairleads and winch pull straps. Solar panels and recovery boards are mounted to the roof rack. Many companies own vans for their cargo capacity and utility aspects. After using his 2006 Ford E350 Super Duty van for work-related projects, Ken converted it to a family-hauler built for adventure. This father of two young girls wanted a capable vehicle to handle various terrain and snow to get his family safely to their mountain cabin. He needed something that would be reliable and fun for their family trips. He decided to properly outfit his van. Beefing it Up Ken worked with Chris at U-Joint Offroad to convert the van into a 4×4 with an NV271 transfer case and a substantial 8-inch lift. This allows him the capability to travel just about anywhere with enough off-road performance, along with ample clearance. The suspension upgrades, combined with proper tires and wheels, make romping through the snow easy. It required a bit of work and multiple upgrades to achieve this suspension lift. New shock towers were installed, along with a dual shock upgrade. Fox 2.0 Reservoir shocks were installed in the front and rear. This enhances the ride quality off the pavement. Atlas leaf springs, as well as spring hangers, shackles, sleeves and bushings, were also installed. This is key with the new suspension setup. The van received a new frame support to ensure everything was straight and proper. New sway bar links and hardware were added to beef up the suspension. This father of two young girls wanted a capable vehicle that could handle various terrains and snow to get his family safely to their mountain cabin. He needed something that would be reliable and fun for their family trips and decided to properly outfit his van. The Montes family is never short of adventures with their E350 Super Duty. The addition of a Keurig coffee maker, as well as a sink and monitor, helps bring the comforts of home to faraway destinations. WFO Concepts prepped Dana 60 front and rear axles. They paired them with ARB lockers and a Drive Line Service custom CV driveline to increase the van’s off-road capabilities. The extra clearance, paired with Bushwacker fender flares, allows for a set of 18×9 Method Double Standard wheels wrapped in 37×13.5 Toyo Tires Open Country M/Ts. The tires provide maximum traction on all four corners through all four seasons. They add confidence while driving in the snow. A full-sized spare wheel and tire are mounted on the rear, with an Aluminess rear tire carrier. An ARB Twin Air Compressor was installed for quick airing-up and airing-down ability. Power Updates The vehicle’s brakes were updated to accommodate larger wheels and tires and extra weight from the aftermarket parts. Power Stop Rotors and steel-braided and -coated DOT brake lines aid the van’s stopping power. And, for convenience, while on the road, a U-Joint Offroad expanded capacity aluminum gas tank was installed. This cuts down on the number of fuel stops by increasing the driving range. This addition helps Ken stay prepared on long journeys off the grid. An Agency 6 GRIDS MOLLE panel holds an additional Agency 6 shovel. It is easy to grab when needed. A U-Joint Offroad front bumper houses a Warn VR10 winch, an Agency 6 fairlead and billet winch shackle, and Lightforce HTX2 lights. The top of the bumper holds the Agency 6 shovel with a mega mount device. A custom setup houses the Go Power 3,000-watt inverter and secondary battery. Ken installed an Agency 6 in-house-fabricated dual steering damper kit to improve steering. This ensures unrestricted gradual movement without the sudden shock and avoid tire shimmy from the large, heavy wheels and tires. A Switch Pros 9100 controls exterior and camp lighting. The solar control panel is easy to reach. The rear bench seat folds down to provide a comfortable bed. Powering the van is a Ford 6.0L Turbo-Diesel engine with other upgrades from Sinister Diesel. An upgraded turbo, stainless EGR coolers, diesel air intake, fuel filter kit, blue spring kit and coolant filter kit round it out. A downpipe and 4-inch exhaust from Agency 6 in-house-fabricated parts accompany the modifications. The Ford E350 Super Duty Van 4×4 Conversion’s Exterior Improvements The exterior of the van is well-equipped. It has a host of upgrades. Not only do they provide more protection, but they also offer additional storage, lighting and functionality. A U-Joint Offroad front bumper was installed. It’s accompanied by a Warn VR10 winch and an Agency 6 1.5-inch fairlead and billet winch shackle. Lightforce HTX2 hybrid driving lights are integrated into the bumper. An Agency 6 Modular Grille sits behind the bumper while grab handles rest on the hood. A Switch-Pro 9100 control panel is mounted into the custom overhead console of the cabin. It provides full control of the lights and accessories. An Agency 6 shovel with mega mount device and Hi-Lift mount rounds out the bumper attachments. This Ford E350 Super Duty van is equipped for both winter and summer adventures. The headlights are protected by Agency 6 rock-proof polycarbonate covers. Five Lightforce Genesis driving lights help to illuminate the path ahead. They are mounted on the U-Joint Offroad roof rack. Additional Lightforce ROK40 scene lights are also mounted on the rack. A sturdy, side-mounted Agency 6 ladder provides access to the vehicle’s roof. The exterior of the van is well-equipped with a host of upgrades. They provide more protection, additional storage, lighting and functionality. A bird’s-eye view shows this van is ready to go anywhere, anytime. The U-Joint Offroad roof rack houses two Action Trax recovery boards and dual Go Power rigid 170-watt solar panels. The 340-watt Go Power solar system is controlled by a PWM 30 solar controller and a 3,000-watt inverter Pure S wave. Ken built the custom-fabricated drop-down box for the solar and power systems. Two additional RV batteries help supply the van with electricity. Additional internal power outlets, USB outlets and an external 12V outlet plug were installed. An Agency 6 GRIDS MOLLE panel is mounted on the exterior window. It holds a secondary Agency 6 shovel. It’s conveniently located and accessed. Might as Well Be Home The interior of the cabin was built to feel like home. It includes many of the creature comforts you’d find there. Two Toyota Sienna reclining captain’s chairs were installed for this family of four. A rear bench seat converts into a bed and is upholstered to match. The cargo van received a full sound-deadening treatment. In-house fabrication built and installed wood ceiling panels complete with LED lighting. Interior Agency 6 A-pillar van grab handles and billet grab handles add both cosmetics and utility to the cabin. Interior side panels were upholstered with 3D-molded topographic detail. Ken Montes’ Ford E350 Super Duty van is a family van. It’s ready to bring the fun wherever they want to go. A 10-gallon onboard water tank and Agency 6 fabricated stainless steel sink were installed. A beverage-sized refrigerator, television and a Keurig coffee maker provide familiar amenities while on the road. “The TV/DVD player was the best modification,” Ken says. “The moment I installed the first 17-inch monitor, [the family has] used it every, single time. DVDs are important because some places are out of range.” The van has become a second home for Ken and his family. No matter where their travels take them, their van is comfortable and well-equipped for any adventure. FORD E350 SUPER DUTY VAN 4×4 CONVERSION UPGRADES Platform: 2006 Ford E350 Super Duty Engine: Ford 6.0L Turbo Diesel; Sinister Diesel Upgraded Turbo, stainless EGR coolers, air intake, fuel filter kit, blue spring kit, coolant filter; Agency 6 in-house-fabricated downpipe, 4-inch exhaust Suspension: (front) U-Joint 8-inch kit; dual shock upgrade; new shock towers; new frame support; Atlas leaf springs; steel-braided and -coated DOT brake lines; sway bar links w/hardware spring hangers with hardware, shackles, sleeves and bushings; Agency 6 Chubby Links w/hardware; Power Stop rotors (rear) U-Joint 8-inch kit; Fox 2.0 Reservoir shocks Wheels & Tires: Method Double Standard 18×9 w/ 4.5-inch backspacing; Toyo Tires Open Country M/T 37×13.5 Additional Modifications: NV271 transfer case; WFO prepped Dana 60s, front and rear; Drive Line Service custom CV drive lines; ARB lockers in front and rear; Agency 6 in-house-fabricated dual steering damper kit INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR UPGRADES Interior Accessories: Rear bench seat (convertible to a bed), upholstered to match; two Toyota Sienna reclining captain’s chairs; Agency 6 Full Sound Deadening, in-house-fabricated wood ceiling panels with LED lighting; in-house side panel upholstery with 3D-molded topographic detail; A-pillar van grab handles; billet grab handles on interior doors; GRIDS Rigid MOLLE panel; onboard water with Agency 6 stainless sink; beverage-sized refrigerator; Keurig coffee maker; Switch Pros 9100; 3,000-watt inverter Pure S Wave; PWM 30 solar controller; 2 x RV batteries; custom-fabricated drop-down box for solar and power systems (built by Ken Montes); internal power outlets and powered USB outlets; external 12V outlets; CB radio Exterior Accessories: Agency 6 modular grille; hood grab handles; rock-proof polycarbonate covers; Lightforce Genesis 2 x HTX2, 5 x ROK40; Warn VR10 winch; Agency 6 1.5” fairlead, billet winch shackle; license plate bracket; U-Joint Offroad expanded-capacity gas tank; roof rack; Action Trax recovery boards; Agency 6 shovel with mega mount device; ARB twin air compressor; U-Joint Offroad front bumper; Agency 6 GRIDS MOLLE panel; Agency 6 ladder; Aluminess rear tire carrier; Agency 6 Hi Lift mount on bumper; Agency 6 Bigfoot for Hi Lift jack; Bushwacker fender flares; Go Power solar control panels; Dual Rigid 170-watt solar panels (Editor’s Note: A version of this story appeared in Tread May/June 2021.) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How can 4×4 conversions be beneficial for work vehicles? The Benefits of 4×4 Conversions for Work Vehicles Upgrading work vehicles to a 4×4 configuration can significantly enhance their utility and reliability across various sectors. Whether you’re running a small business, involved in emergency services, or part of a large governmental operation, here’s how 4×4 conversions can benefit your fleet: Enhanced Safety and Accessibility Improved Traction and Control: A 4×4 system ensures better traction on challenging terrains, reducing the risks associated with slippery roads or uneven surfaces. This is particularly beneficial for emergency response vehicles that need to access remote or hard-to-reach areas quickly and safely. Navigating Difficult Environments: Whether it’s muddy construction sites or snow-covered roads, a 4×4 conversion ensures your vehicle can handle diverse conditions without compromising stability or control. Increased Versatility and Efficiency Greater Load Handling: By distributing power evenly across all four wheels, 4×4 systems can manage heavier loads more efficiently. This is crucial for businesses that transport heavy equipment or materials and need reliable performance in all conditions. Expanded Operational Range: Converting to 4×4 opens up opportunities for off-road projects and can easily extend the operational range of service vehicles. This is vital for businesses that operate in rural or less-developed areas where road conditions can vary significantly. Boost in Team Confidence and Morale Reliable Performance: Knowing that their vehicle is equipped to handle challenging terrains gives drivers peace of mind, allowing them to focus on their tasks rather than the road ahead, which can boost productivity and morale significantly. Reduced Downtime: With a more capable vehicle, teams are less likely to face delays due to adverse weather or terrain, ensuring projects stay on schedule. By investing in 4×4 conversions for your work vehicles, you not only equip your team with a more capable tool but also enhance overall operational efficiency and safety. This upgrade can transform how your business or organization tackles daily challenges, positioning you for greater success. What technical resources and information are available for 4×4 conversions? Technical Resources for 4×4 Conversions When exploring 4×4 conversions, it’s vital to have access to comprehensive technical resources. Here’s a closer look at what information is typically available: 1. Manufacturing & Engineering Insights Understanding the design and engineering process behind a 4×4 system is crucial. Resources often detail the unique four-wheel-drive systems tailored to various vehicle needs and environmental conditions. These documents typically explain how the design enhances the vehicle’s performance, providing a robust foundation for your off-road adventures. 2. Key Angles & Specifications For those using 4×4 vehicles off-road, knowing the critical angles—such as approach, departure, and break-over angles—is essential. These specifications help ensure that your vehicle can tackle challenging terrain without damage, making them an invaluable part of any conversion guide. 3. Maintenance Guidelines Long-term performance of a converted 4×4 depends on proper maintenance. Comprehensive schedules typically include details on lubrication, routine inspections, and maintenance procedures. Following these guidelines not only extends the life of your vehicle but also ensures maximum safety and reliability on the road. 4. Independent Front Suspension (IFS) Instructions For vehicles with an Independent Front Suspension, it’s important to have specific instructions regarding component use. This includes how front automatic locking hubs are integrated into the system, optimizing performance and maneuverability. 5. Towing and Weight Specifications Understanding towing capacities and weight ratings (such as the Gross Combination Weight Rating or GCWR) is critical, especially if your 4×4 will be used for hauling. Detailed resources explain the limits and capabilities of your vehicle to ensure safe towing practices. 6. Turning Diameter Information Finally, conversion resources often cover how modifications may affect your vehicle’s turning diameter. This information helps in planning for navigation in both urban and rugged environments, ensuring that your newly converted 4×4 remains versatile and adaptable. By delving into these areas, you gain a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects needed for a successful 4×4 conversion, enabling you to make informed decisions and optimize your vehicle’s capabilities. What is the process for obtaining a price quote or pricing guide for the 4×4 conversion? How to Obtain a Price Quote or Pricing Guide for a 4×4 Conversion If you’re considering a 4×4 conversion, understanding the costs involved is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you secure an accurate price quote or find detailed pricing information: Speak with a Specialist: Start by contacting a sales representative from the conversion provider. They can guide you through the options available, ensuring you find the solution that suits your specific needs and preferences. Request a Quote: Once you’ve discussed your requirements, request a customized quote. This will provide a more accurate cost based on your chosen specifications and desired features. Consult the Pricing Guide: For a detailed overview of potential costs, refer to the provider’s pricing guide. This resource typically outlines various packages, additional options, and any other variables that may affect your final price. By following these steps, you’ll not only gain a comprehensive understanding of the pricing structure but also ensure that you’re making an informed decision tailored to your conversion needs. How does the 4×4 system affect the height and center of gravity of the vehicle? How Does the 4×4 System Impact Your Vehicle’s Height and Center of Gravity? Installing a 4×4 system on your van typically raises its height by about 4 inches. This elevation offers several benefits, such as an enhanced field of view and improved ground clearance, which are especially advantageous for off-road excursions. However, it’s important to note that this lift also affects the vehicle’s center of gravity. With a higher center of gravity, the dynamics of driving can change, requiring more attentive handling and adjustments in driving style. For further insights into how these changes might affect your specific vehicle model, consulting the warranty packet or vehicle manual is recommended. What components are retained from the original E-Series in the 4×4 conversion? Retained Components in the 4×4 Conversion from the E-Series When converting an E-Series vehicle to a 4×4, several key components from the original model are carried over to ensure performance and safety remain top-notch. Here’s what’s retained: Front Coil Suspension: This crucial component continues to provide a smooth and controlled ride, absorbing bumps and maintaining stability. Anti-Roll Bar: Essential for reducing body roll during cornering, the anti-roll bar helps maintain vehicle stability and passenger comfort. Traction Control System: This system remains a vital part of the vehicle, enhancing grip and preventing wheel slip in challenging conditions. Four-Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS): Known for preventing wheels from locking up during braking, it ensures you have maximum steering control on slippery surfaces. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): This safety feature continues to monitor tire pressure in real time, alerting you to any issues that might affect handling and safety. Advanced Stability and Roll Control: This includes systems that enhance stability and prevent rollovers, particularly useful in off-road scenarios. These components are thoughtfully preserved to maintain the E-Series’ reliability and performance, even as it’s transformed into a robust 4×4 vehicle. What F-Series components are used in the 4×4 conversion for E-Series? Components of the 4×4 Conversion for E-Series The transformation of E-Series into a 4×4 powerhouse involves integrating several key components from the F-Series lineup. Here’s a breakdown of what is utilized in the conversion: Front Drive-Steer Solid Axle: This component ensures enhanced handling and stability, critical for off-road capabilities. 17″ Steel Wheels: The front setup includes 17″ x 7.5″ steel wheels, providing a robust foundation for improved traction on various surfaces. Dual Rear Wheel Configuration: For models using dual rear wheels, the 17″ x 6.5″ steel wheels offer additional support and stability across diverse terrains. Magna Transfer Case: A pivotal element in the conversion, this transfer case manages power distribution between the front and rear axles, enabling true 4×4 capabilities. 2-Speed Transfer System: Featuring both high (4Hi) and low (4Low) speed settings, this system allows for adaptability in varying driving conditions, enhancing both performance and control. These components collectively ensure that the E-Series is well-equipped to tackle challenging routes with the reliability and durability expected from a 4×4 conversion. What is the overview of the 4×4 conversion for Ford E-Series Cutaway chassis? Overview of the 4×4 Conversion for Ford E-Series Cutaway Chassis Elevate Your Driving Experience The 4×4 conversion for the Ford E-Series Cutaway chassis offers an innovative solution for those seeking enhanced off-road capabilities. With this conversion, the vehicle’s height increases by approximately 4 inches, providing superior ground clearance. This elevation not only improves your field of vision but also enhances your ability to tackle challenging terrains. Maintain Warranty and Reduce Costs Opting for this conversion ensures you maintain your factory warranty on unmodified parts, such as the engine, transmission, and rear axle. Additionally, participation in a streamlined shipping program can lower delivery expenses for dealers nationwide. Important Considerations While the conversion enhances off-road potential, it also raises the vehicle’s center of gravity. Drivers should adjust their handling to accommodate this change. Before heading off-road, reviewing the warranty documentation for vehicles with a higher center of gravity is advisable. Availability This robust 4×4 conversion is now accessible for the Ford E-Series Cutaway, making it an ideal choice for adventure seekers needing both reliability and versatility. Is the production of Econoline 4x4s continuing? The production of standard Econoline vans ended in 2014. However, the manufacturing of E-350 and E-450 cutaway models is still ongoing. Reports suggest that these cutaway models, along with stripped chassis versions, might continue to be produced up until around 2020. Due to this ongoing production, 4×4 conversions for these models are expected to continue. What steps are involved in the warranty process for the 4×4 system? Understanding the Warranty Process for 4×4 Systems Navigating the warranty process can be straightforward if you follow these essential steps: Ensure Warranty Registration First, make sure your warranty is officially registered online. This step is crucial for any future claims. If you’re uncertain about your registration status, double-check the documentation or visit the manufacturer’s website. Obtain Prior Authorization Before proceeding with any repairs, it’s imperative to contact the manufacturer for authorization. Skipping this step might result in denial of reimbursement, as prior approval is often required for warranty claims. Order Necessary Parts Once you have obtained the necessary authorization, the next step is to order the required parts. Verify parts through the recommended suppliers or platforms to ensure compatibility and authenticity. Arrange Shipment of Parts After placing the order, coordinate the shipment of parts to the repair facility. Keep tracking information handy to avoid delays and ensure that all components arrive in time for the repair. Conduct the Repair With all parts at your disposal, proceed with the vehicle repair. Make sure that the repair is performed by qualified technicians to maintain the integrity of the 4×4 system and uphold the warranty conditions. Settle the Invoice Once repairs are completed, it’s time to finalize any necessary invoicing. Ensure all paperwork is correctly filled out and submitted as per the warranty requirements to facilitate a smooth reimbursement process. By adhering to these steps, you can efficiently manage the warranty process and ensure that your 4×4 systemreceives the care it needs without unexpected financial burdens. What warranty coverage is available for the 4×4 system? Warranty Coverage for the 4×4 System When considering the 4×4 system, it’s essential to understand the warranty coverage it offers. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you can expect: Matching Warranty: The 4×4 system comes with a warranty that aligns with the vehicle’s original warranty. This includes both labor and replacement parts, ensuring full protection parallel to the manufacturer’s terms. Serviceability: Designed for easy serviceability, this 4×4 system utilizes original equipment suspension and drivetrain components. These components are sourced from leading automotive manufacturers, making them readily available for service at authorized dealers nationwide. Extended Warranty Considerations: If you’re exploring extended warranty options, whether through the vehicle’s manufacturer or an aftermarket provider, confirm in writing that the coverage extends to include the converted 4×4 system. Typically, manufacturer’s extended warranties only cover factory-installed components. What’s Included in the Warranty Packet: Restrictions and Warnings: Comprehensive details on what is and isn’t covered. Coverage Details: Information outlining the scope of the warranty. Operating Guidelines: Instructions for the effective use of your 4×4 system. Maintenance Schedule: A guide to upkeep tasks to maintain warranty validity. Registration Form: Necessary for warranty activation and service tracking. Warranty Duration for Specific Models Recent E-Series Models (2016-2021): Enjoys a 5-year or 60,000-mile warranty for systems installed on vehicles with an initial mileage between 0 and 5,000. Standard E-Series: A 2-year or 24,000-mile warranty applies for adjustments made between 5,001 and 30,000 miles. Older E-Series and Exports: Comes with a 12-month warranty for conversions conducted between 30,001 and 60,000 miles or for export vehicles. This detailed warranty coverage offers peace of mind, ensuring that should any issues arise, you’ll have the support you need. How can 4×4 conversions assist in moving people in difficult terrains? Ken worked with Chris at U-Joint Offroad to convert the van into a 4×4 with an NV271 transfer case and a substantial 8-inch lift. This allows him the capability to travel just about anywhere with enough off-road performance, along with ample clearance. The suspension upgrades, combined with proper tires and wheels, make romping through the snow easy. Navigating Challenging Terrains In environments like ski resorts, guided hunts, and remote observatories, moving people efficiently requires reliable vehicles that can handle rugged landscapes. A 4×4 conversion offers the perfect solution, enhancing the vehicle’s ability to traverse difficult terrains with ease. Whether it’s transporting groups through snowy mountains or across volcanic landscapes, these modifications ensure that maximum numbers of people are moved safely with minimal vehicles. By improving traction and clearance, 4×4 conversions make it possible to venture into areas that standard vehicles simply can’t reach, thus opening up new possibilities for exploration and connectivity in remote locations. How do 4×4 conversions contribute to solving logistical challenges? By enabling vehicles to navigate tough and off-road landscapes, these conversions effectively address and overcome transportation challenges associated with remote or rugged locations. What is the primary goal of using 4×4 conversions in these settings? The main objective is to efficiently transport a large number of people using a minimal fleet of vehicles, which is crucial in areas with difficult terrain and limited accessibility. What are the common applications for 4×4 vehicles in difficult terrains? These vehicles are commonly utilized in environments like educational campuses, transportation hubs, winter sports areas, guided outdoor adventures, volcanic regions, and scientific observation sites. They are ideal for handling diverse and challenging terrains. How does the 4×4 system enhance adventure and off-road capabilities? Ken worked with Chris at U-Joint Offroad to convert the van into a 4×4 with an NV271 transfer case and a substantial 8-inch lift. This allows him the capability to travel just about anywhere with enough off-road performance, along with ample clearance. The increased height offers a better field of view and greater ground clearance, which are essential for navigating rugged terrains and tackling off-road adventures with confidence. Different terrains require different driving techniques, and familiarizing yourself with your vehicle’s capabilities is crucial before venturing into remote areas. The suspension upgrades, combined with proper tires and wheels, make romping through the snow easy. These enhancements ensure the van is prepared for diverse landscapes, providing both stability and flexibility. It required a bit of work and multiple upgrades to achieve this suspension lift. New shock towers were installed, along with a dual shock upgrade. Fox 2.0 Reservoir shocks were installed in the front and rear. This enhances the ride quality off the pavement. Atlas leaf springs, as well as spring hangers, shackles, sleeves, and bushings, were also installed. This is key with the new suspension setup. The van received a new frame support to ensure everything was straight and proper. New sway bar links and hardware were added to beef up the suspension. These modifications not only improve ride quality but also significantly boost the vehicle’s ability to handle off-road challenges, making it a reliable partner for any adventure enthusiast. What should be considered when driving in different terrains? It’s important to learn how your vehicle handles under various conditions before venturing into isolated areas, as different terrains require distinct driving strategies. How does the 4×4 system enhance ground clearance? The increased height from the 4×4 system allows the vehicle to clear obstacles more easily, which is crucial for off-road travel. How does the 4×4 system improve the vehicle’s field of view? Elevating the van by an average of 4.0 inches enhances the driver’s field of view by providing a higher vantage point. What are the components included in the 4×4 system for the E-Series? Ken worked with Chris at U-Joint Offroad to convert the van into a 4×4 with an NV271 transfer case and a substantial 8-inch lift. This allows him the capability to travel just about anywhere with enough off-road performance, along with ample clearance. To ensure the van was fully equipped for rugged terrains, the conversion included several key components: Manual Lock-Out Hubs: These provide better control over the vehicle’s traction and improve fuel efficiency when 4×4 is not needed. Manual Shifter: Offers precise engagement of the 4×4 system, giving Ken the flexibility to shift as needed on challenging trails. 4×4 Indicator Light: Keeps the driver informed about the current status of the 4-wheel drive system. LT245/70R17 Tires: These tires are selected for their superior off-road capabilities, providing enhanced grip and stability. 4″ Ride Height Increase: While Ken’s van benefits from an overall 8-inch lift, the 4-inch ride height increase specifically contributes to better ground clearance and obstacle navigation. By integrating these components, Ken’s van is not only ready to tackle tough terrains but also maintains a balance of functionality and performance. What is the specific ride height increase provided by the system? The setup provides a 4-inch increase in ride height, contributing to improved ground clearance for off-road adventures. What kind of tires are included in the system? The system features LT245/70R17 tires, offering a specific size and type suitable for enhanced off-road performance. What specific components are included in the 4×4 system? The system includes components like manual lock-out hubs, a manual shifter, a 4×4 indicator light, specific tires, and a ride height increase.
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