I just bought my 1989 Chevy P-30 and I'm turning it into a camper for full time living and to travel around the US. I choose to do it with a stepvan because they are cheap, have a lot of space for there size, its a square box unlike a bus, and they are really cool! I also choose to get one with a 350 since they are tried and true, parts are available at any auto parts store or junkyard, and I don't have to pay an arm and a leg for parts like with diesels. I definitely pay for it on the mpg side but I plan making methodical moves with it and using a bike and public trans. That being said I have never done anything like, I have some auto mechanics and basic carpentry in my background but majority of this will be uncharted territory for me. Then more advise the better!
There doesn't seem to be much information on stepvan builds so I thought I would document my build.
Picture taken in the Columbia River Gorge on my drive back to the Washington coast
I bought her in Idaho City this summer for $3000
It has
350 chevy with 123,000 miles
Turbo 400 tranny
12.5 ft box
I am first preparing the truck for longevity before adding anything to it.
.
There is a list of mechanical issues that need attention as expected with a 27 year old vehicle. New radiator hoses have been installed. New power steering pump, front contorl arm bushing, repacked front wheel bearing are come soon. There is also a small oil leak and diff leak that will receive attention.
I have applied corroseal to the external rust areas. Now I'm using a wire wheel to take down the interior metal before I apply a rust treatment primer and rust-oleum to protect it. all interior metal will be covered in the end but i want to make sure it is protected.
There doesn't seem to be much information on stepvan builds so I thought I would document my build.
Picture taken in the Columbia River Gorge on my drive back to the Washington coast
I bought her in Idaho City this summer for $3000
It has
350 chevy with 123,000 miles
Turbo 400 tranny
12.5 ft box
I am first preparing the truck for longevity before adding anything to it.
.
There is a list of mechanical issues that need attention as expected with a 27 year old vehicle. New radiator hoses have been installed. New power steering pump, front contorl arm bushing, repacked front wheel bearing are come soon. There is also a small oil leak and diff leak that will receive attention.
I have applied corroseal to the external rust areas. Now I'm using a wire wheel to take down the interior metal before I apply a rust treatment primer and rust-oleum to protect it. all interior metal will be covered in the end but i want to make sure it is protected.
