I've been searching for a gently used chevy express 2010 or later 2500 cargo van with under 100k mi to buy for part time "back-up" truck, part time camper conversion. Most every one I find is a "fleet" vehicle that has been beat to heck and over priced. I do see passenger vans that appear to be used in a much "softer" manner and at more reasonable prices. Has anyone stripped the vinyl "skin" out of a window van and/or covered the windows to allow more alternative camper van conversions? Any input on if the windows cause the interior to heat up more in the summer and has anyone effectively stopped that with interior window coverings?
There is a poster here (Black95 I think) who has done a wonderful job with his window van camper but he left all the "guts" intact.
Any input would be appreciated!

 

You may want to go look at Expedition Portal to see what people have been doing. They have a van section.
My thought is that you will want to look at counter top heights vs the windows and decide if you want to cover the exterior of the windows where you need privacy or just use curtains. I have a Roadtrek Popular 190 which has custom windows essentially in all locations except the bathroom. I think the fridge is about 6" taller than the beltline.

 

Yes I've stripped my window van down to bare metal.

The "box" of the van is only a single layer of sheet metal. A lot can be gained just by adding insulation to it. I think it could be made very cozy.
I specifically wanted windows because I like being able to see. The tint on them is quite dark so it lets in very little heat. The "walls" get much warmer than the windows do, and they are painted white.

 

Thanks for your input!

 

I did check out that expedition site - seems like the rear "curtain" airbag might be an issue - never thought about that...Thanks!

 

I thought about removing the curtain airbags, until I learned that they protect the driver and passenger. So I decided to leave them in.

 

The glass is just urethaned in, heck I've seen a few where it fell out. No reason you couldn't find a junker and sawzall out the plain tin and install with panel bond or something. Most of the inside plastic just snaps into place.