| 2005 Ford Econoline E 350 Cargo Van front
Underneath the hood, the Ultimate Adventure Vehicle uses Ford's 6.0-liter diesel engine. The motor's 235 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque provide ample grunt for off-road exploring and hauling trailers up to 10,000 pounds, while returning what can only be described as outstanding fuel economy--by full-size SUV or motorhome standards--of about 18 mpg. A 46-gallon replacement tank gives the van an 800-plus-mile range between fill-ups.
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From the five-speed automatic transmission, power goes to an Atlas II all-gear-driven transfer case from Advance Adapters. The twin-lever design allows front and rear differentials to be engaged independently, giving the vehicle tremendous versatility. For example, a broken rear driveshaft, which might stop another vehicle in its tracks, is a temporary obstacle in this van--once the rearend is put in neutral, the Sportsmobile can front-drive its way out of the boonies under its own power.
As a finishing touch, the Ultimate Adventure Vehicle sports a set of 16x8.0-inch simulated beadlock wheels from U.S. Wheel. To balance on- and off-road performance, a set of 285/75R16 Bridgestone Dueler A/T Revo all-terrains were mounted.
Inside, we chose Sportsmobile's most popular floorplan, the RB-50, because of its abundant storage space and open layout. Incorporating the company's 3.5x8.0-foot popup/fold-down roof provided a more aerodynamic profile for improved fuel economy when driving on the highway and a lower center of gravity off-road. When it's time to make camp for the night, the top's built-in electric motors raise the roof at the touch of a button to provide a full 6.75 feet of stand-up height. With a roomy upper bed and fold-out sofa, it can easily sleep four adults.
All the comforts of home are here, too, including a two-burner propane stove, microwave, 2.7-cubic-foot refrigerator, kitchen sink, electric-flush porta-potty, propane furnace and water heater, 10-gallon fresh-water tank, and 115-volt AC power. After a long day on the dusty trail, swing open the rear doors and attach a bow-shaped rod with privacy curtain, and you can enjoy a hot shower.
| 2005 Ford Econoline E 350 Cargo Van rear
Because engine, tire, and wind noise can wear on occupants over the long haul, the crew at Sportsmobile added several hundred pounds of sound insulation to walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and the inside of the engine cover.
Communications are handled by a Midland Radio 40-channel CB with seven NOAA weather channels. A custom-installed Beltronics RX75 Plus remote-mount radar detector helps keep the driver out of trouble when trying to make time. The job of protecting all these goodies falls to a Viper alarm with GPS tracking capability.
| 2005 Ford Econoline E 350 Cargo Van underside
Adventure Hardware
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