Ford Transit Builds: Platform Flexibility Meets Proven Performance

Ford Transit Builds: Platform Flexibility Meets Proven Performance

The Ford Transit is quickly becoming one of the most popular platforms for camper van conversions — and for good reason. It offers great headroom, a modern driving experience, and unmatched availability across the U.S.

At OZK Customs, we've completed dozens of Ford Transit builds, ranging from stealth weekenders to full-time adventure vans. If you're looking to convert a Transit or wondering whether it's the right base van for your needs, here's everything you should know.

Why Builders (and Travelers) Love the Ford Transit

The Transit has carved out a unique space in the van build world. Compared to Sprinters and ProMasters, it's:

• Easier to service nationwide
• More affordable upfront
• Available in AWD configurations
• Comfortable for drivers coming from smaller vehicles

For builders, it's a clean platform with straight lines, smart dimensions, and ample space for water tanks, cabinetry, and insulation. For you? It means more room to customize and fewer maintenance surprises.

Transit Van Conversion Capabilities

We've converted Transits into:

• Stealth-mode vans with blackout windows and solar on the roof
• Family-friendly campers with safe seat mounts and convertible beds
• Work/travel rigs with built-in desks, lithium power, and secure gear zones
• Adventure-ready AWD vans with roof racks, rear cargo trays, and off-grid plumbing

Whether you're converting a 148" high-roof or a mid-roof with AWD, we design around how you'll use the space — and what you'll bring along.

Ford Transit Upfit Services at OZK

We don't do cookie-cutter builds. Instead, we walk you through:

• Layout options for your body length and roof height
• Material recommendations based on region or season
• Power and plumbing configurations
• Storage options for bikes, boards, skis, or tools

Every Transit upfit is CAD-modeled in-house and custom-built by our team — no kits, no shortcuts.

Popular Transit Build Features

• Victron power systems with solar and lithium banks
• Full galley kitchens with fridge, sink, cooktop
• Insulated interior panels with soft-touch ceiling
• Convertible dinette or fixed bed platforms
• Diesel or propane heat
• Portable or integrated toilet/shower systems

What to Know Before Converting a Transit

If you're considering a Transit build, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Roof height matters — The high-roof model offers standing room for most adults and opens up cabinetry and vertical layouts. Mid-roof builds are stealthier but more limited.
• Length defines layout — 130", 148", and 148" extended all have different furniture and storage implications.
• All-Wheel Drive vs. RWD — AWD adds flexibility in terrain but may require adjustments to underbody tank placement and tire clearance.

We'll walk you through every one of these choices during design so you don't end up with regrets later.

Transit vs. Sprinter vs. ProMaster

We get this question all the time. Here's how the Transit compares:

When choosing between van platforms, each has its strengths:

• Drive Options: The Transit offers RWD and AWD, while the Sprinter provides RWD and 4x4, and the ProMaster is FWD-only.
• Maintenance: The Transit is widely serviceable across the country, the Sprinter has more costly parts, and the ProMaster is generally affordable to maintain.
• Interior Space: The Transit has a square, easy-to-build interior, the Sprinter is the narrowest of the three, and the ProMaster offers the widest body.
• Price Point: The Transit hits a competitive price point, while the Sprinter is the most expensive option, and the ProMaster is budget-friendly.

No platform is "best" — but the Transit hits a sweet spot between drive feel, space, serviceability, and cost. It's ideal for many lifestyle-first builds, especially if you need AWD and nationwide parts availability.

Real Client Build: Transit Touring Rig

We worked with a couple planning a national park tour with their dog. Their build included:

• 148" HR Transit AWD
• Convertible bed and seating area
• Diesel heater for winter camping
• Solar + shore power setup
• Water tanks inside the insulation envelope for four-season use
• Pet-friendly flooring and storage zones

They've since traveled to 23 parks across the U.S., sending us photos from mountain summits and desert camps. It's the kind of rig that just works — quiet, warm, tough, and adaptable.

Ready to Build Your Transit?

If you've got a Transit (or are looking to buy one), we're ready to talk layout, power, and use-case specifics. Whether you're starting fresh or upgrading an existing build, OZK Customs turns your Transit into a true adventure machine.