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Need durable work van recommendations for construction business
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Running a construction company here and our vans take an absolute beating. We're talking tools, materials, muddy boots, you name it. I need recommendations for indestructible work vans that can handle this kind of abuse day in and day out.
We've been using Sprinters but the maintenance costs are killing us. Looking at Transit vans and Promasters too. What I really care about is the van chassis durability - we've had some serious rust issues with our current fleet.
Also interested in work van customization for durability. We need shelving that won't rattle apart and flooring that can handle heavy equipment being dragged across it.
Anyone have long-term experience with different van models? How do they hold up after 150k+ miles?
We run a fleet of Ford Transits for delivery. The diesel versions are fantastic for high mileage - we have several over 300k. The gas engines are okay but the 3.5 EcoBoost has some reliability concerns long-term.
The Promaster has better cargo space but worse build quality. We've had electrical issues and door mechanism failures. The front-wheel drive is great in snow though.
For true indestructible work vans, you can't beat the old Chevy Express/GMC Savana. They're basic but run forever. The 6.0 gas engine is practically bulletproof.
The Transit chassis is much better than Sprinter for rust resistance. Mercedes uses thinner steel that corrodes faster, especially around wheel wells and door seams.
For work van customization, use aluminum shelving instead of steel. Lighter and won't rust. Line-X or similar spray-in bedliner for floors holds up better than rubber mats.
Avoid Promasters if you're in a cold climate - the Fiat-based electrical system doesn't like extreme temperatures. We see lots of sensor and module failures.
We standardized on Transit vans three years ago and they've been excellent. The medium roof extended length gives us perfect space for tools and materials.
Key work van maintenance tips: change transmission fluid every 60k (Ford says lifetime but that's nonsense), check rear differential breather regularly, and keep up with brake service.
The diesel option is worth the extra cost if you're putting on high miles. Better fuel economy and the engine lasts longer.
For budget options, look at used Nissan NV vans. They didn't sell well new so you can find great deals. The V8 is reliable and parts are cheap.
The cargo van version of pickup trucks (like Ford's Transit Connect based on Focus) are good for light duty but not construction heavy.
Consider work van resale value too - Transits hold value better than Promasters or older Sprinters.
Safety wise, the Transit has excellent crash ratings and good visibility. The Promaster's front-wheel drive gives better traction but the handling feels less stable when loaded.
Make sure any van customization doesn't block safety equipment or driver sightlines. We've seen aftermarket shelving that completely blocks the rearview mirror.
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