Ford E-350 & E-450 RV Tuned 4x4 Conversion Kit (2016+)

Description:

This high performance 4x4 conversion kit is based around a modified version of our Core Kit but specifically tuned for heavy RV vans and late model RV variants. Please read up on our standard kit for a full breakdown of the ins and outs of Timberline conversions. Our description here just covers the differences in this high performance kit. 

About:

The standard Ford Econoline was discontinued after the 2014 model, however cutaway variants are still produced to this day most popularly in RV configuration, but also as service vehicles, box trucks, and school buses. 

These vans feature the sturdy body-on-frame architecture found in the earlier vans, but with custom bodies. Newer transmission and engine options include the 6.2 Gas and popular 7.3 gas (Godzilla) motors. These powerful combinations have breathed new life into the product and we've seen some really neat rigs being produced as a result. 

Having worked with quite a few customers on these new variants, we've developed a kit more specifically tuned to these heavy rigs that really sets them up to drive great and perform in all environments just like the classic Timberline model. 

Note, if you like this kit style, but have an earlier RV, we will build you a custom sheet with these options. This kit is specifically for late model vans. 

Differences:

The additional weight and top heavy nature of these vans require a little more attention to the conversion. For this reason, we pay specific attention to both the front and rear end. It's very important to run a good stiff sway bar up front with our HD sway bar links. Ford also doesn't control the front coil spring rate as much as we'd like with these RV's as they did with the regular van, so we use a progressive coil spring up front to mitigate the sway. 

These kits include our HD 4 link kit which uses 1/4" plate and reinforced frame with schedule 80 tubing, far more than should ever be required for a van. Fox shocks tend to ride stiff with the regular light-duty vans but these heavy rigs require a little more dampening so we run Fox shocks on all big rigs which are included in this kit along with our HD steering stabilizer solutions utilized on all vans. 

When budget allows, we highly recommend going with our custom leaf spring solution for the rear. It sincerely improves the ride quality and the HD shackles are built to withstand the abuse. (Heavy duty frame mount brackets available on request.)

For those on a slightly tighter budget we have a custom 6" lift block option that is built to carry more weight than we've ever seen in the back of a van. These lift blocks feature an anti-wrap system to keep that pinion angle right where it needs to be. 

SRW / DRW

There are a few different ways to handle the dual rear wheel nature of many of these vans. We prefer to run an 8x200 pattern at all 6 wheels which allows you to run 1 spare, and one tire size. It is possible to get very close on the tire size by running a 16" rim in the back with a non-dually rim on the front, popularly done by UJOR, but the tire brands are limited, and you have to think a bit more about what you'll be carrying for a spare tire if anything. Technically if you run the 8x200 pattern, and if you were to get a flat on the front, you could pull a tire from the rear and not even carry a spare on/in the rig. You can read up a little more about the designs in our DRW adapter section. 

6r140 Transmission

The 6R140 transmission found in 2016+ vans is an extremely durable and relatively van-friendly transmission. There are (2) variations on this transmission in vans. Many vans come with a 4x4-ready transmission. On these, you will find a simple flange bolted to the back of the transmission with a stubby shaft, we refer to this as the flange style. These transmissions only require removal of the flange and support piece, and the F-series transfer case will bolt right up. This late model transfer case is available brand from Ford new for less than an NP271 typically costs rebuilt, and they are very durable.

The slip yoke style transmission requires the removal of the transmission, dismantling and changing the output shaft and extension housing. We do have the parts available to do so. It's not hard to pull the transmission, but if you're not accustomed to being inside them, it may be best to have a shop handle the swap with our components which generally isn't super expensive. 

The Yoke style 

How does this work?

1) Start with the FAQ section and Ford Design pages will help you wrap your head around everything that goes into this process and at some point you'll want to visit the How-to section, particularly if this is a new concept for you. Call us for a consult if you have questions. 720-515-5933.

2) Choose the kit type from our available options and if you like, email us over your VIN number and a few photos of your van for a more detailed build sheet, mentioning what kit you'd like to work with. 

3) Order your parts either from our site, or we can send you a checkout link or pay by phone/mobile. 

4) Source your remaining parts and assemble your axle while we wrap up your kit and ship it to you, and once it arrives you can get right to work! 

Manual Sample

Here are some sample pages from our Ford 4x4 conversion manual. Our manuals include detailed photography, mechanical drawings, torque specs and helpful tips.

It is our goal to make the process as seamless and productive as possible and we've gone to a great deal to design a product that is field-tested and made for a pain-resistant install.  

4-Link & Track Bar design

We chose the 4-link suspension system for several reasons. Having worked on Superduty trucks before vans, we knew they were sturdy but not ideal for everyday driving with varying loads and occasional off-road trips. Many agree that the extra pivot point and adjustable axle placement of a 4-link setup make for a smoother ride compared to standard radius arms.

Setting up the geometry correctly can be challenging. Through years of testing, we've developed a plug-and-play system that consistently works well with our other components. Our parallel 4-link design is simple, durable, and low-maintenance, thanks to high-quality leaf spring bushings, grade 10 hardware, and easy bolt-up installation.

The track bar system is our most rigid and durable design to date. It reinforces the cradle, provides a deflection free pivot link between the axle and the frame, and it's even now available as a bolt-in affair. If you can weld, that kit is a little more affordable to install and can be done in slightly less time. Drilling is minimized as much as we can across all kits.

Coil springs vs. leaf springs

The ongoing debate between leaf springs and coil springs for 4x4 van conversions has clear benefits favoring the more modern coil spring design. Here's why:

1. Ride Quality: Your van was designed with coil springs by Ford, tailored to its specific needs. Coil springs offer varied spring rates matching different vehicles, ensuring a comfortable ride without guesswork. Additional weight from the conversion sits below the coil springs.

2. Turning Radius: Coil spring Superduty axles boast a tighter turning radius compared to leaf spring axles, making parking, U-turns, and navigating tight spots on trails easier.

3. Compatibility: Superduty axles require no extra programming or wiring for E-series vans from 1975 to 2023, seamlessly integrating with traction control and anti-lock brakes systems.

4. Availability: The 2005+ Superduty axle is widely accessible, with parts readily available and easy to work with. Our 4-link system is compatible with front truck axles from 2005 to 2023, and our track bar system works with axles up to 2016. Kits for 2017+ axles are available upon request.

While we respect other designs, the advantages of coil springs are apparent. Now, leaf springs can make sense in specific scenarios. Extreme off-road enthusiasts may benefit from their durability and forgiving nature when other suspension components wear out, but with proper components and care, choosing a coil spring rig ensures a satisfying ride without regrets.

Where do I get an axle & T-case

We cover more of this in the How-to section, but the following is helpful even before you read up there: We've found the site car-part.com to be the easiest solution to finding an axle across the country.

2005-2010 F-250 & F-350 axles are the easiest to find in many gear ratios, make sure the axle you're buying has the ratio your van currently has or the one you plan to run.

Single rear wheel and dual rear wheel F-250/F-350 axles are identical with the exception of the dually adapter stubs and the front hub thread pitch which doesn't matter. Our kits are also compatible with the Super 60, Fatboy, Widetrack, etc, axles and Cab/Chassis units.  

Fitment Designed For:

Van Side: 2016-current Ford E-350/E-450 Cutaway / Cab+Chassis Vans

Truck Side: Fits 2005-2010 Ford F-250/F-350 SRW or DRW axles, 2013-2016 Ford F-250/F-350 axles (For largest brakes) 2017+ Axles by request only

Included in kit:

Dana 60 2005+ Steering Stabilizer Kit
Easy-Wire Transfer Case Range LED Indicator Kit
Econoline Pitman Arm for Superduty Drag Link
Ford 4x4 Van Heavy Duty Pitman Stabilizer Kit
Ford Econoline 4x4 Conversion Driveshaft + T-case Hardware Kit
Ford Econoline 4x4 Van Bump Stop Drop Kit
Ford Econoline Extended Front Brake Lines
Ford Econoline to Superduty ABS Wire Jumpers
Ford Econoline to Superduty Sway Bar + Link Kit
Ford Econoline Transmission Drop Brackets
Ford E-series 4x4 Conversion Rear Lift Kit
6R140 Transfer Case Shifter Kit
Superduty to Econoline Spring Perch Kit
Timberline 4x4 Ford Master Conversion Manual
Timberline Econoline to Superduty Trackbar Kit
Timberline E-Series Conversion Lower Radiator Hose Guard
Timberline Ford 4 Link Kit HD
Timberline Helper Kit
Fox RV Shock Kit For 4x4 Vans
Hellwig Swaybay Kit
HD E-series Coilspring Set
E-Series HD RV Rear Leaf Spring Kit (Option 1)
Superbeef HD Lift Block Kit (Option 2)

Tools Required:

We have a standard list of tools that we recommend listed in the front of our manual and the Ford Design. It's pretty basic stuff, if you have your own workshop with a lift, you probably have nearly all of them. 

Tips / Skill Level: 

Tips / Skill Level:

1-10 (10 being most difficult) Level 7. There's a great chance if you've made it this far, you more than have the skill-set to complete this conversion. It is involved, but it's very straightforward. If you've done things like lift kits, pulled a transmission, and done a set of ball joints, this will just be another job at the shop. 

This product may work with other model vehicles.  

Price, Shipping, Fulfillment, Taxes, Quality and Returns

• Price + Shipping: Core-kit flat-rate shipping to the lower 48 is $330 currently. Residential delivery and lift gate service add $90 each so try to work out a commercial delivery address with 2 big humans or a forklift, most kits weigh 200-250lbs.
  
  
• We have a Canadian export license and can ship directly to customers as well as handle duties. Alaska, Hawaii, and International shipping is available on request. Typically Canadian GST is 4.5% for businesses and 10% for private individuals. We are charged a $125 brokering fee for Canadian LTL shipments. Due to vast expanse of the great north, shipping and orders must be processed manually for Canadian customers. 
  
  
• Shipping time for full kits: Timberline produces parts and kits on a block schedule listed on the main home-page. Order periods are book-ended at present to ensure consistent fulfillment times. Typically full kits fulfill in 4-8 weeks depending on where in line your order is placed. 
  
  
• Taxes: Colorado residents must pay sales tax of 7.5%, no sales tax is collected on out-of-state shipments currently. 
  
  
• Quality and Returns: We are consistently complimented on the quality of our products and the ease of install. Components are hand-built here almost exclusively in Colorado by seasoned professionals who are fanatics about design and execution.
  
  If you are in any way disappointed in the components we will issue a full refund less the cost of shipping when the product is returned. If you decide to return any components that didn't apply to your build or you changed your mind about, shipping and a 15% restocking fee will be deducted from the purchase refund.