Recreational Vans

Custom Class B RV and Camper Vans

What defines custom Class B motorhomes

Custom Class B motorhomes take a full size van platform and turn it into a compact home that can parallel park, fit in most driveways, and still clear many city garages. Typical lengths range from 17 to 22 feet with interior standing room in high roof models. A quality build treats the van as a system, balancing structure, insulation, electrical, plumbing, and safety so the rig feels solid on the highway and comfortable at camp. Buyers often compare factory made units to one off customs. Factory rigs offer predictable specs while customs allow you to choose materials, layout, and power to match your travel style.

Chassis choice is foundational. Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Ram ProMaster dominate the space, each with unique strengths. Sprinter brings diesel options and long range efficiency. Transit offers all wheel drive and wide service networks. ProMaster’s front wheel drive can provide a lower floor and a square cargo area that is friendly to cabinetry. When you evaluate custom class B motorhomes, ask about payload after the conversion, final weight distribution, and any suspension upgrades that improve ride and stability.

A custom Class B interior starts with insulation and sound management. Common approaches include closed cell foam for thermal performance, Thinsulate style acoustic insulation for road noise, and a proper vapor strategy to protect the body. Cabinetry materials vary from lightweight plywood to aluminum framed modules. Floors often use composite subfloors that resist moisture and reduce creaks. Secure mounting to factory points is critical for crash safety and long term squeak free travel.

How to evaluate custom RV vans for sale

Start with the electrical system. For off grid stays, look for lithium batteries in the 200 to 600 amp hour range, a pure sine inverter from 2000 to 3000 watts, and a smart battery management system. Roof solar between 200 and 600 watts keeps the batteries topped while driving and parked. Alternator charging through a DC to DC charger can add significant daily power when you move. For climate control, high efficiency 12 volt air conditioning has improved in recent years, though roof mounted AC remains common. Heating is often diesel or gasoline fired from the vehicle tank, with thermostatic control and altitude compensation.

Water systems reveal how long a van can stay off grid. Fresh tanks in the 20 to 40 gallon range are typical, with grey tanks between 10 and 20 gallons. Hot water can come from an electric heater, a heat exchanger, or a compact diesel unit. Toilet choices include cassette, cartridge style, and composting. Each has tradeoffs in maintenance, odor control, and service points. A simple, winter friendly plumbing layout with easy access to valves often outperforms complex routing that is hard to service.

Layout drives daily comfort. Common configurations include a fixed bed with a garage underneath, a convertible lounge that becomes a bed, or twin beds with a center aisle for easy night access. Galley choices revolve around induction cooktops, a compressor fridge, and a sink sized for real dishes. Work from the road setups may include a swivel table, standing desk stations, or a slide out laptop shelf. Storage should be sized for your longest trip, not just a weekend.

Buying used or new requires a methodical inspection. Request a full spec sheet, wiring diagram, and plumbing diagram. Review build photos showing insulation, wiring runs, and mounting methods. Test drive on highway and rough pavement to listen for rattles. Cycle every switch and pump. Check for leaks at roof penetrations, window frames, and around the shower pan if equipped. Verify that all aftermarket electrical work is fused correctly and that wire gauges match current loads.

Chassis and drivetrains

Consider gasoline or diesel based on regional fuel availability, altitude, and expected mileage. All wheel drive and limited slip options help on wet boat ramps, snowy passes, and forest roads. Suspension upgrades like tuned shocks, helper springs, or rear sway bars can transform highway manners and reduce driver fatigue on long hauls.

Safety and serviceability

Look for proper anchoring of cabinets and seats to factory points, fire suppression near the galley, and clearly labeled cutoffs for battery, propane if present, and water. Serviceability matters. Panels that remove with basic tools, accessible fuses and breakers, and documented part numbers mean faster repairs on the road.

Budget and resale

Custom RV vans for sale span a wide range. New custom builds often start in the low six figures depending on chassis, equipment, and finish level. Well built vans with clean documentation hold value, especially those with proven lithium power, high demand layouts, and a neutral interior palette. Insurance and financing may require certified upfit documentation and clear VIN based build records.

Vans camper vans layouts and power options

The phrase vans camper vans often points to simple builds, but power and comfort do not have to be complicated. A balanced electrical system aligns battery capacity with charging sources and the loads you truly need. If you plan to boondock often, prioritize efficient appliances, high output alternator charging, and moderate solar sized to your roof space. If you chase seasons, insulation, window coverings, and ventilation matter as much as raw battery capacity.

A thoughtful galley starts with a fridge sized for multi day trips, an induction top matched to the inverter, and a sink and faucet that are easy to keep clean. Sleep is non negotiable, so measure your preferred bed size and confirm the mattress type and support system. For bikes, skis, or boards, modular L track, removable boxes, and fold away shelves keep the garage flexible. Lighting should be layered with dimmable zones for driving, cooking, and relaxing.

When you narrow options, compare warranty terms for both the base vehicle and the conversion. Ask who services the systems and what response times to expect during travel season. A good handoff includes a walkthrough, a binder or digital manual, and a way to get support while you are on the road.

OZK Customs builds Class B rigs with a listen first approach so your spec sheet aligns with real trips, not just a wish list. If you want a quiet cabin, we focus on acoustic treatment early. If power is the priority, we model your loads and charging strategy so the system stays balanced across climates and driving routines. For clients who want financing paths, we can guide you to platforms that qualify and then upfit them to your plan.

Ready to talk through layouts, power, and travel goals and turn them into a clear build path? Send us a note with your must haves, nice to haves, and timeline. We will map a plan, answer your questions, and help you decide next steps with confidence.