Transit 130 camper build

A short wheelbase Ford Transit offers a nimble foundation for city streets, trailheads, and tight parking. The Transit 130 refers to the regular length wheelbase, which measures about 130 inches between axles. It is available with low roof and, in many trims, medium roof, while the tallest roof typically pairs with the longer wheelbase. This compact footprint rewards careful planning, smart storage, and systems sized for efficiency.

Dimensions that shape every decision

Before sketching cabinets or buying gear, anchor your plan to real measurements. The regular length cargo floor of a Transit 130 is roughly 10 to 11 feet depending on trim and bulkhead choice. Interior width at the widest point is about 70 inches, while the width between wheelhouses is near 55 inches. Interior height ranges from about 57 inches in low roof to around 72 inches in medium roof. Exterior length sits around 220 inches which keeps parking simple.

Payload varies by model and options, so check the door jamb sticker and plan to stay well under that number with passengers, water, fuel, and cargo. Many builds target a balanced distribution with heavier items low and centered over or just ahead of the rear axle. The short wheelbase turns quickly, so keep tall storage secure and avoid stacking heavy mass high in the rear.

Mock the space before you build

Tape outlines and cardboard mockups help translate measurements into real movement. Test the aisle width with a cooler standing in for the galley. Sit where your bed would be and reach for imaginary shelves. If your shoulders bump or you cannot swing feet into the aisle, adjust now, not after furniture is permanent.

Layouts that fit the 130 wheelbase

A short van rewards clean flow from the sliding door to the rear. Popular choices include a curbside galley opposite an open aisle and a rear convertible bed that doubles as lounge seating. For two people, a fore aft twin couch layout that converts to a full bed keeps the center open and feels roomy.

A transverse bed saves length but hits width limits. Sleeping across the van requires width extensions called flares to reach comfortable length for most adults. Without flares, many people prefer a longitudinal bed or a convertible dinette that pulls into a wider platform at night. Mount tall storage on the driver side to leave the slider entry uncluttered.

Across the width or along the length

If you install flares, a transverse bed can free up two to three feet of cabin length for a longer galley or a compact workspace. Without flares, a lengthwise bed avoids cramped shoulders and keeps bedding simple. Try a lift up slat system that expands for sleep and retracts to create a day bench.

Systems sized for a compact camper

Electrical A realistic power plan for a Transit 130 often uses a 12 volt lithium battery bank in the 200 to 300 amp hour range. Pair that with a DC to DC alternator charger for reliable driving based charging. Roof space is limited, but many owners fit 200 to 300 watts of solar to offset idle draws and sunny day use. Use a quality fuse block, short cable runs, and protected routing to reduce voltage drop and noise.

Water Aim for a practical freshwater capacity in the 10 to 20 gallon range with an underslung or interior tank depending on climate. A two to five gallon gray solution under the sink or under the van handles basic dish duty. Quick connect exterior shower points work well after rides or beach days without consuming cabin room.

Heat and cooling A compact gasoline or diesel air heater sips fuel and keeps weight low while preserving battery capacity. Ventilation is critical in a small cabin. One roof fan placed near the galley and a second rear fan if roof space allows creates strong cross flow. A window vent insert at the slider can help exhaust cooking moisture without opening the full door in poor weather.

Insulation and comfort Use a layered approach. Closed cell foam on metal ribs, mineral wool or thinsulate in cavities, and a thermal break under the floor quiets road noise and steadies temperature swings. Add window coverings with reflective cores for shade and stealth. Choose marine grade latches and positive catches so doors stay quiet over rough roads.

Weight and balance on the 130

Keep batteries, water, and heavy drawers low and near the axle line. Reserve upper cabinets for lighter soft goods. If you carry bikes or boards inside, anchor them to floor tracks and confirm that rear axle weight stays within spec when loaded for travel.

When to bring in a professional

A short wheelbase build has little margin for trial and error. Precision cabinetry, safe wiring, and compliant fuel or heater installs save headaches and protect your investment. If you want a finished interior that feels quiet on the highway and tough on washboard, a pro upfit delivers tight tolerances and thoughtful details.

OZK Customs designs and builds campers that make compact platforms feel calm and capable on long days. See our recreational vans to explore options that fit the Transit 130 footprint. If you want a clean sheet interior tailored to your travel rhythm, start here: custom build van. If you prefer a financed platform with book value considerations, review our mainstream vans.

We build complete custom interiors, partial upfits, power systems, heating and ventilation, racks, lighting, and tailored storage for recreational adventure vans, overland rigs, and select commercial applications. Based in Fayetteville Arkansas, we hand off every build with a detailed walkthrough so you leave confident and road ready.

Strong plan. Right systems. Professional fit. That is how a Transit 130 camper build drives like a daily and camps like a retreat.

Ready to turn a Transit 130 into a refined camper built for real travel. Tell us how you camp, haul, and sleep. OZK Customs designs and builds complete and partial conversions with pro cabinetry, quiet heating, and dependable power. Fill out the form to start your custom plan and get a quote.