Transit Custom SWB (L1H1) 300 base
This is my much adored self built camper! She’s a sturdy transit custom, 2018, 68 reg, short wheel base, low roof model: 6 speed manual, electric windows, Bluetooth phone pairing and hands free, ford stock radio/stereo.
I bought this van in August 2021, from a specialist van dealership. Prior to me, I understand the van was used as a painter/decorators van, and was kept in solid good condition cosmetically and mechanically.
I have opted for ford service centres and ford commercial dealers in most of the servicing I have paid for in my ownership, with one or two MOTs conducted by Halfords auto centres out of pure convenience. main dealers can be pricier but I wanted peace of mind when I came to keeping the van in good condition, so that long trips didn’t cause me any apprehension. I have had no breakdowns in my ownership, and no startup issues.
I went for this spec myself as it’s the most versatile for combined city living and weekend adventuring. Its a great weekend size camper for 2 adults, but still fits through 6 foot width restrictions in central London, can fit under 2.0m height restrictions (useful for underground carparks, ferry bookings and such), and is short enough to manoeuvre through tight city traffic. The van is fitted with an AdBlue system allowing it to drive through urban emissions restricted zones freely (no charge for LEZ, ULEZ etc. zones in London and other cities), as well as being registered with the Paris Crit-Air scheme which works in a similar way.
Condition is good, with minor dings and wear marks on the bodywork. I don’t Molly coddle this van, and it shows. But I do try my best to keep it tidy. I let it get mucky from use, because that’s what it’s for, then give it some love when needed.
The van is currently taking ~ £100 of diesel for a full tank, and will do ~700 miles of motorway/non city driving.
MOT due 21/JUNE/2025
In summary, I’d say if you’re looking for a complete conversion, but want opportunities to upgrade or put your own mark on the vehicle, this is you’re van. It’s simple, reliable, economical, and a great UK focussed weekend machine. Cheers for reading, JD.
I bought the van as a used panel van, and did all the modifications myself, and it’s a pretty good job, and In so doing I have managed to keep the costs nice and low, which is reflected in the relatively low price I’m looking for compared to similar age/spec/condition campers that have been professionally converted. Modifications include:
– Removal of bulkhead for walk-through between front seats and living space ( useful in bad British weather!)
– Installation of sliding door window – this was a much needed upgrade to let some light into the living space. Its also a small but meaningful addition when considering visibility while driving – for those not used to driving without rear view mirrors and lots of windows, this is a great little bonus.
– Switched to single captain passenger seat instead of original bench seat. More comfy for the passenger, and more space In the front for snacks 👌
– living space fully insulated, carpet lined and panelled.
– custom bench in living space, which can be transformed into a small double size bed. The bench cushions become the mattress, and are high density memory foam, upholstered by myself and backed with 3mm ply for structure. The bench-to-bed transition is manual, and could be further developed if you wanted something more flashy/automatic. I kept things simple. Less to go wrong. There is vast amounts of storage under and behind the bench, plenty for clothes/gear/food/supplies – when I set off for a weekend away, there’s enough hidden cubbies for everything to be tucked away out of sight for a clutter free experience.
-wheel arch storage and table – similar to the bench/bed, this was a simple idea to create storage space and a surface for cooking on. I use small camping style butane cookers, and only cook inside the van with doors open for ventilation.
– Diesel heater – solid UK van life upgrade. Basically a big hair dryer bolted under the front passenger seat that sips a little diesel from the main fuel tank. It’s super efficient, I’ve never seen the fuel gauge impacted when I run it. Great for pushing through the early morning chill of a spring/autumn morning when you’re building up courage to get out of bed.
Extras included in the sale –
– Cassette toilet. Truly, the most important piece of kit you’ll need for more remote trips. It’s simple to use and great for peace of mind.
– Anker power station ( xxx Ah ). This power station will keep phones, LED lamps, Bluetooth speakers and even laptops all charged, for 2 people, for 3-4 days. It is completed independent of the van, and can be taken out for power needs beyond the van itself. Recharge takes approx 1 hour with standard domestic 240V, or for the more adventurous vanlifers, it will also accept upto 300W solar in via standard connectors. If your plans involve wild camping, and long gaps between campsites or towns, this is a lifesaver. It means you don’t have to rely on the van’s integrated battery, which could drain it and leave you needing a jump start. Not fun out in the boonies.
custom bench in living space, which can be transformed into a small double size bed. The bench cushions become the mattress, and are high density memory foam, upholstered by myself and backed with 3mm ply for structure. The bench-to-bed transition is manual, and could be further developed if you wanted something more flashy/automatic. I kept things simple. Less to go wrong. There is vast amounts of storage under and behind the bench, plenty for clothes/gear/food/supplies – when I set off for a weekend away, there’s enough hidden cubbies for everything to be tucked away out of sight for a clutter free experience.
Please note: Quirky Campers do not inspect the listings for accuracy or check campervans in person. We have asked sellers to provide evidence of certificates and paperwork however you MUST check yourself that the information provided is present and correct. You will need to exercise the normal due diligence when buying any vehicle.
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