Van Life Update - I Converted My $700 Van into a 4x4 Off Road Chevy for Camping and Overlanding

Рет қаралды 576,286

2 жыл бұрын

I converted an AWD Chevy Astrovan into an epic 4x4 off road camping van! Check out the conversion!
Hello my friends! I know, I know it's been too long, but don't worry I didn't forget about my trusty $700 van conversion. I have been working hard trying to get this transmission rebuilt and then get the 4x4 conversion going. The AWD system in these Astrovans are nice but not very reliable and not ideal for off roading so I said let's just swap it out! I still have a lot of trail riding and off roading to do but I didn't want to wait any longer and had to show you how it turned out!
Make sure you check out the original video I posted on my $700 dollar van to see the inside!
Check out my mushroom coffee:
www.DrStraight.com
Talk to me and exclusive content! (new content going up today)
/ hannahstraight
Help me out!
paypal.me/drhannahstraight
Follow me:
/ drstraight
/ hannahstraight7

Пікірлер: 1 100

@Nopaants 2 жыл бұрын

My God! What a beautiful canyon!..... what a beautiful canyon!

@dancharko6746 2 жыл бұрын

All the hate mail probably came from the people who realized your van can do all the same things their $40k jeeps can do but with more character. 😁 So much appreciation for fun, unique rigs like this. It shows that you don't need anything super modified or expensive to go out and have a good time. Hope you do more videos with it.

@TWX1138 6 ай бұрын

It's not going to do everything. But for someone whose interest is what they find on the trail, versus the trail itself, it's probably good enough. Take a van with a factory 4x4 system based on a shared platform SUV, upgrade that van with the goodies that fit from the SUV model where possible, and it's likely to do the forest roads and two-tracks just fine. It won't be as good off-camber, it probably won't have as many off-the-shelf options for things like skidplates and rock sliders, and it'll have some overhead clearance issues in some circumstances, but if the driver isn't specifically looking to challenge him or herself by intentionally taking on obstacles and is careful about things like dragging pans, it will get there and offer a place to sleep out of the weather.

@Darronsanderson 4 ай бұрын

Or, $200k conversions. They are not wise.

@charlesweller1733 2 жыл бұрын

Hannah, you are great! You even get into the mechanical aspects of your vehicle. As you and I know we learn something every day and that prevents Bodrum. Anyway, I can't think of a more beautiful person than you to give us instructions and information. You are a super lady!

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Charles!! You're too kind=) Happy holidays=)

@charlesweller1733 2 жыл бұрын

Happy Holidays to you also......

@leadnsteel1428 Жыл бұрын

These vans were so useful for everything. Towing, hauling, moving and camping. I've got a 98 with full time awd that still works great off road. I put a 2 inch lift and 31 inch tires on it. I go camping and overlanding all the time and I can sleep in it.

@wasupray 2 жыл бұрын

Great find on the Astro van. I used to drive the 2wd for a airport shuttle company in San Diego. Those vans were so solid. We would load 6-7 passengers and luggage all day everyday and those vans took the abuse. Our company had about 50 vans and loved them for their durability. 300k out of a engine was normal. Lots of the vans lasted 300-500K until the company got rid of them and bought new ones. Good luck with the build out and safe travels.

@paulbenoit9431 2 жыл бұрын

I love this project! Its so cool to repurpose old rigs and give them new life. Well done Doc!

@TopTum 2 жыл бұрын

When Hannah ask if you need a ride, you always say yes.

@5280-life 2 жыл бұрын

Got it!

@richardgreen3160 2 жыл бұрын

I agree totally

@e.l.9589 2 жыл бұрын

Are you insured? Yes. By Survival? No. I can't take that ride.

@alanpettibone 2 жыл бұрын

It’s the kind of thing one can only dream of!

@douglaspetrie8577 2 жыл бұрын

That's not real 4wd driving come to Australia and come out with us will show you real 4wd driving, climbing goat tracks, big mud hollows sand etc.. your most welcome to head out with our 4x4 group should you ever make it to Queensland Australia

@christiandiemond9595 2 жыл бұрын

If it does the job, why worry about what others think. Having recently discovered your videos I see nothing wrong with the lifestyle you have chosen, keep up the great work and enjoy your life.

@robertrohr3990 2 жыл бұрын

So cool, Doc. Zooming around the hills and valleys with you. Let's do it again real soon!

@alexs3447 2 жыл бұрын

You did well with the 4x4 conversion. Don't know who would complain about that . Looks like the van will suit your needs and budget .

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

So far so fun=)

@ShlomoWalfish 2 жыл бұрын

@@DrHannahStraight great videos, can you convert a 2 wheel drive Astro to 4x4? or only the AWD?

@kuakowardy5403 Жыл бұрын

@@ShlomoWalfish you have to find a junkyard awd van and replace the wheel bearings, axel, drive shaft, and the new transfer case for the 4x4 conversion kit

@TimHief 7 ай бұрын

I've been eyeing an Astro AWD van for a small van camper conversion, this sealed the deal for me. Add a modest lift kit and the van will go wherever I want to go. Great video... first time watcher too.

@theredflannelchannel7820 2 жыл бұрын

You are such an inspiration! So thankful for people like you that help share and teach a good way of living.

@anthonyzimmer5032 2 жыл бұрын

I really like what you did with the van! I hope it takes you on many great adventures!! Have a great day Dr. Straight 👍

@jimdavenport4484 2 жыл бұрын

Great job I like your no BS approach to how much it is costing. Still when all is said and done you will have a very nice van at a decent price.

@FREE_WILL_AAHhhhhhhhhhhhh 2 жыл бұрын

I like the budget build...showing others how simply freedom and a fulfilling life can be. Good Job.

@neilmerrifield9633 2 жыл бұрын

Doesn't matter what people think of your ride, you seem to be having a lot of fun with it. You truly are an amazing girl! There are a lot of guys that wouldn't take on a conversion like this. Very smart, very money wise. Keep having fun!

@carinapowered995 2 жыл бұрын

That's become a nice van, they have a 4.3L V6 engine, some of them have the extended back end, from where the back tire ends, they stick out some more, if the engine dies, you can put a used one from the salvage yard, but hopefully it will last you for many more years. Love your channel.

@rickkearn7100 2 жыл бұрын

You certainly don't ever run out of great ideas of how to spend your days having fun and living life to the fullest. Oye! Keep the pedal to the metal. Cheers.

@arlenekufchock1394 2 жыл бұрын

Great video Dr. Hannah, great purpose, details, costs, and clear camera shots on worn parts, thanks! So funny too!

@mitchclarkson3082 2 жыл бұрын

Great job with the van conversion. Enjoy your videos; always light hearted and entertaining. Thanks.

@WhatTimeIsIt369 2 жыл бұрын

The haters I would assume have Perception Bias. Running around in a $200 000.oo sportsmobile is great! All the power to you. But many people just don't have that kind of cash to beat something up offroad. The Astro and Safari vans are an excellent option as they are cheap cheap. I have had just about every 4x4 that one can have and if you plan to sleep in it as well then the comfort and safety of the van is great! I don't care for campers personally as they limit where you can go much more than even an AWD Astro would. Also it is amazing how many people that have no savings at all drive really nice vehicles while many millionaires will drive old vehicles. Good on you for not being so high and mighty to not give the Astro a shot.

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

Exactly. You said it all spot on. Cheers my friend=)

@Troche571 2 жыл бұрын

I couldn’t agree more, now I would Lock down those recovery points, fuel and water storage and everything else will just follow when needed. A DIY roof rack with some extra lighting would come in handy. Who knows We end up seeing the Van at the Overland Expo West one of these years.

@kafader1 2 жыл бұрын

As always Dr Hannah! Love your videos! So inspiring. Hope to be able to do what you're able to do!

@marcusgarretson8965 2 жыл бұрын

Great Video! I just bought a 2001 Astrovan AWD about 3 months ago for $600. I came across your video, because I’m in the process of building mine up also. Looking forward to seeing more Astrovan vids! Great job!

@louierivera7512 2 жыл бұрын

“WOW” Super gorgeous!

@ronboe6325 2 жыл бұрын

An advantage (sometimes) for the AstroVan, being smaller than the Sprinter it will be more nimble and probably go places the Sprinter won't. Or shouldn't. Keeping cheap will reduce the hurt if it gets pranged. :)

@stevenbaker5099 Жыл бұрын

Plus, the drivetrain is easy to find parts for.

@ricusserfontein1086 2 жыл бұрын

I love your van. Always liked the look of the Astro vans. Even though i would prefer a standard (lower) 2wd , the 4wd stance does look badass ☺

@ernieleveritt7184 2 жыл бұрын

I wouldn’t think you could find an Astro van in this day and time. I bought one new in the 90s but Ive only seen one or two on the road in recent years. Thanks for sharing your project van. Good job with finding and converting it.

@rolandogamboa3603 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the update! I was wondering what was going on with the van. You are such a welcome distraction to a stressfull day! Thank you!!

@williamdoyle5234 2 жыл бұрын

I actually think the van is pretty cool. That would be a blast doing all that off-roading..

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

It rolls around like jello compared to the stiff suspension on my truck!

@williamdoyle5234 2 жыл бұрын

@@DrHannahStraight I'm sure it still would be fun . I should see what my truck can do off road.

@AdamHowardTravelerdawg 2 жыл бұрын

Okay, I'm only one minute in and this is GREAT! Gorgeous host, great energy, bubbly personality, sense of humor, and a rockin' van that is taking on some puddles and gettin' it off road. NIOCE!!!

@livinglikarockstar 2 жыл бұрын

GM 4.3 liter 90 degree v6 was derived from the infamous 350 small block v8 platform which began in 1955. Arguably one the best V8 engines ever to be mass produced on the planet. As well many valvetrain and engine components are interchangeable as well as transmissions, it's no wonder it's just as tough. Pretttty neat conversion, still have a 97 2wd GMC handicap equipped i purchased to shuttle my mom around in her last days. Thank you so much for sharing.

@SRDragon1 2 жыл бұрын

I have a 2003 AWD Astro, Mine has a 3” lift. I haven’t pulled the trigger on the 4x4 swap but it’s on my List of things to do. Along with upgrading the Rear Shocks and springs. Great job! I hope to see more.

@BernardoRuelas 2 жыл бұрын

You show a great example how to off road on a budget for people like me. Thank you. It's not rocket science. I really love you videos Hannah. Keep up on uploading on your adventures.

@redrocker1055 2 жыл бұрын

The 4.3 GM engine in these are hands down the best six cylinder engine ever made by the big three. I wish they still made Astro vans. They are frame-on construction, have a great engine, can tow a decent amount and aren't as prone to rust as other vans are. In short. Astro vans are awesome.

@MikeBrown-ii3pt 2 жыл бұрын

I wouldn't say "hands down" the best but they're right up there. Personally, I believe that inline 6s are better than V-6 engines but, if there's no room for one, then there's no room for one. The 4.3 is indeed an acceptable substitute in this application.

@Teleman73 2 жыл бұрын

It was a good motor, had one in my 95 Blazer. It was like a 350 with 2 Cylinders less. Sure beats the 3.7 in my Jeep Liberty.

@debbiep.allison263 2 жыл бұрын

i drive fords ,at that these are still excellent engines

@wrongplanet1957 2 жыл бұрын

Yep this Saturn same its not the frame I want , can't reach many things, it and the back plugs things , but its a work horse I've had a flat bottom boat n 7 bi g adults, all our luggage, for almostv2 weeks, gear to fish tunes, snorkeling packed over flowing, ut pulled choice didn't know it was there I very woken up many times n some driver u know be running 100 , 2 trips 1800 miles that way full loads its maybe a but bigger id have to check its got trailer kit on it

@nichoh16 2 жыл бұрын

I’m not a huge Chevy guy but I had a 1999 Astro through high school and it was and is the best car I have ever owned.

@cesarrodriguez4869 2 жыл бұрын

Wow you are not just beautiful but extremely smart. I own a shop in Dallas TX and I still get a couple of customers that I still do maintenance services on those ASTRO van and they are working great. But what amazingly see is that you learn from everything you do including the idea of rebuilding your own transmission is fantastic. You are just amazing keep posting and keep having fun

@strmydrams387 2 жыл бұрын

👍👍 You Sprint so fast 😊😊 and your bubliness that springs up anytime makes my 💓 smile! 😄.

@BackyardEngineer334 2 жыл бұрын

🤣🤣🤣 that intro was 👌👌👌 I ❤️ you Hannah

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

I liked it too=)

@Simcore999 2 жыл бұрын

Yeah, I was going to say with delays etc it must be more around 4- 5k and this is more my style for adventuring( Or an old ghostbusters style sleeper car) 👍

@MikeB-in1nd 2 жыл бұрын

Hannah you always look like your living life to the fullest and enjoying it!

@chrisgullett4332 2 жыл бұрын

I just wanna say thank you to the person that made those pants. THANK YOU!!!!

@yorickstrangefield2976 2 жыл бұрын

She looks incredibly hot in those....

@stevep5736 2 жыл бұрын

She can work on any of my vehicles and turn them into a 4x4. Even my 4x4’s ! ❤️

@kencornwell 2 жыл бұрын

Very well done. Probably not many AWD Astro vans around anymore, I only see 2WD. That was a great find.

@bburr59 2 жыл бұрын

Love the van, you make everything you do look fun. Thanks for the videos!

@craigmaverick 2 жыл бұрын

Very cool build, it just goes to show you can have a very capable, fun rig for not alot of money. 👍

@DR10002 2 жыл бұрын

Knowing you dont need a $150k sportsmobile to be able to go play outside is priceless.

@roberthallam6824 2 жыл бұрын

Nice project ! Good job converting it to a 4X4. Put a skid plate for the transmission/transfer case and 33 inch tires and it will go most anywhere !

@zalleywaalley8227 2 жыл бұрын

wow, i’m Impressed. I had a 4.3 L in my GMC Jimmy, and I replace the injectors with updated injectors nothing special and gained almost 60 hp over what was factory in 96 when it was built. That engine I swear it would break your neck I had that much power. Absolutely wonderful off-road. Mine had 273,000 miles on it when I sold it and it was still running like a top. Just prior to selling it I had also used it as a tow vehicle, and I towed a Ford focus from Virginia all the way to Iowa and it pulled the mountains in Virginia just fine.

@MichaelAntus 2 жыл бұрын

It's a pleasure following your adventures. Much respect...

@petermccrindle7033 2 жыл бұрын

Best damned looking Doc*on*wheels I've ever seen for sure! Hey Hannah, have you considered perhaps strengthening your van's front end (easy and inexpensive enough to do) and installing a front end winch on it? The more off-roading you do, the more chances that you could find yourself stuck at one point or another which is where a winch would be considered a necessity.. and a godsend! You might even find some used functional winch models in junkyards or used and reconditioned vehicle parts stores.

@renalshomlmes338 2 жыл бұрын

I think her front end is pretty solid already.

@petermccrindle7033 2 жыл бұрын

@@renalshomlmes338 LOL I'm not going to ask you to elaborate but I strongly suspect that you and I are talking about two very different things!

@jimmyamico2306 2 жыл бұрын

HEY DOC I MISS HEARING FROM YOU…STAY SAFE ALWAYS…YOUR IN MY DAILY PRAYERS 🙏 Respectfully, Jimmy USAF🇺🇸😇✈️✝️💜🙏

@dannytattooflash 2 жыл бұрын

Love your enthusiasm and upbeat personality and zest for life! Awesome.

@wendtheatandair 2 жыл бұрын

need a ride... thats hilarious. Not in a million years would that ever come true but its nice of you to give people something to think about. You are a classy lady. Have a great weekend . Kevin

@bcgrittner8076 2 жыл бұрын

Just remember…As you found out with your camper/truck… 4WD gets you stuck that much worse. Is there room for a winch on the front of the van?

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

true story, I may look into it!

@AlanGibson7 2 жыл бұрын

that is why you drive in 2wd until you get stuck and then it is time to go back in 4wd.

@theBIGBLUTO 2 жыл бұрын

Only in a dream would I be hitch hiking & waiting with my thumb out only to have the lovely Dr Hannah in her cool van offering me a lift !! I must be dreaming 💕

@CodyBunker 2 жыл бұрын

My friend brags about his astro van nonstop. He has built 4 different interchangeable interiors for it. I am sticking with my truck but don't let people say it's dumb. Those vans work pretty well for people

@todjmzbckes9686 2 жыл бұрын

I have a 97. 5 inch lift. Panel van astro. I'm having a blast getting it ready!

@raymonddimuzio3339 2 жыл бұрын

You put 4 wheel drive on a Chevy Astro Van, Doc, you are what we call in the Marine Corps - Certifiable!

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

hahaha I'll take it!

@calvincooley1074 2 жыл бұрын

VANTASTIC! No scratch & dent worries with this equipment!

@dougdemaree1963 2 жыл бұрын

Great job......Looks like a good vehicle and a fine place to enjoy some wonderful coffee..!!!!!

@glennr7148 2 жыл бұрын

Glad to see you still have the van, still many uses left in it. I would suggest a roof rake , propane heater, mini frig, maybe some more aggressive off-road tires? This would help on some longer adventures and the stove would enable you to heat water for your mushroom tea! The cave was smaller than it looked from afar, that rocky floor did make a camp out less desirable, but I have found a blow up mattress to work well on a rough terrain.

@paule4696 2 жыл бұрын

I had a 1997 Astro. It was an awesome vehicle. The powertrain lasted over 300K miles. I never had to do anything but change the fluids. I went through multiple alternators, and other parts which you might expect but I used the heck out of that thing and it just kept running. I had to laugh when you mentioned the windshield. I probably replaced 5 of those. The angle of the windshield makes it vulnerable to stone chips. Don't be surprised if you have a chip within the next 6 months in the new one. Nice job on the 4x4 conversion.

@markcobb4693 2 жыл бұрын

Great idea, you can always find cheap parts and people know how to fix it. Sprinter’s are quite the opposite I’ve worked on both.

@Vekurus 2 жыл бұрын

GREAT use of an Astro, I have a soft spot for the 2000's Astro. Wanted one for the longest time.

@509grind 2 жыл бұрын

Cool video. Thx for sharing. I've done the Gambler 500 many times. Happy trails.....

@tribalsean 2 жыл бұрын

CooL! ... Most excellent build and conversion... Congratulations... Thank you for sharing. Keep on keepin on!

@briansheldon1279 2 жыл бұрын

That is what I want to do for a rafting/adventure rig. You are amazing keep the awesome videos coming. I would love to hear about things you love and hate about the conversion!!!!

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

pros and cons video=)

@ksokie63 2 жыл бұрын

Well that means more to come with the van then. Thanks for the update on the Van and sharing your time.

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

You bet!

@redarmy300 2 жыл бұрын

chevy astro van awd are awsome they go though almost anything. cant wait to see more.

@crackerjack6075 2 жыл бұрын

Wonderful video - I love your posts. I thought you might like to know; at 2:00 in the vid, you show us your van just after dusk, door is open and the golden glow of internal lighting - so nice. Middle of your van, above your open slide-door, the first star in your night sky..., that is Vega. Wow, you are so blessed there :-)

@rickbourne1376 2 жыл бұрын

I had a GMC Safari. Must useful vehicle I have ever owned, and while only AWD, I never got stuck in the Northern winter conditions.

@snuffysmiff 2 жыл бұрын

Congrats on your four-wheel-drive road toaster! I drove a same color but window-less one for 3 years for work and that's what it was christened as-the road toaster.

@jameskitzmann6268 2 жыл бұрын

Never know what to expect on this channel, keep it up awesome sauce.

@zijidawa8710 2 жыл бұрын

Cool. I was just thinking about this yesterday. Thanks Doc.

@mckalewirnsberger1910 2 жыл бұрын

I’m happy to tell you , the awd Astro’s are absolutely the best vans ever made Great technician vans that would go anywhere, this is awesome

@jamesdickman8315 2 жыл бұрын

Mushroom coffee the idea of it gives me visions of spinning color wheels of the 60's. And the expression Wow Man !

@bobbytorres5630 2 жыл бұрын

Your getting beautiful as the days go by! Every time you have a new vlog!

@bubbagail7450 2 жыл бұрын

Perfect van for what you are wanting to do. Good size for one person, good motor and frame and easy to handle. Have fun.

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

suspension is so much softer than on my truck, it handles well!

@JEMCochran49 2 жыл бұрын

The van is ok. The driver is great. Brains, beautiful, and adventurous....a keeper.

@jayccewims9940 3 ай бұрын

I need this to deliver mail on my routes. It’s perfect.

@saltylegion6288 2 жыл бұрын

My parents had an Astro van while I was younger. Yeah they are not the prettiest thing but I'll tell you what they are darn good rigs. My parents accumulated nearly 300k miles before they replaced it. Solid rig!

@kevinharris1392 2 жыл бұрын

Great deal to get the tranny rebuilt at that price. Only transmission I ever had to rebuild was in a Pontiac Fiero,my very first car,it cost $1500 to do in 1992! The engine should last forever,V6 Vortec was such a great motor they were put in industrial fork lifts and run on propane gas. Got a fork truck in my shop with over 16,000 hours on that same motor and still runs great. Happy travels Dr. Hannah 🏞️

@robertfunk7204 2 жыл бұрын

Great video , I am certainly looking forward to new videos featuring this vehicle . until then enjoy your new wheels .

@joea4501 2 жыл бұрын

Very Cool 4x4 Conversion Astro, I might have to do that with my 2004 Yellow Astro van. Good video Hannah 👍

@0HARE 2 жыл бұрын

Nice work upgrading the van to 4x4. Super budget, capable explorer. Go For It

@AB-C1 2 жыл бұрын

Great video! And great idea to make it 4x4! Looking forward to the next one! Best wishes from London England 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

@davelariviere682 2 жыл бұрын

I loved your walk through of this process, THANK YOU

@robcreel4257 2 жыл бұрын

I had forgotten about the van. Nice job, Doc. It was smart to do the 4x4 conversion. You'd need some lockers to do serious off-roading but I love the whole 4x4 van/camper idea. It's given me ideas myself. Nice going!

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

I was hoping it would!! Good luck=)

@edsorenson8212 2 жыл бұрын

This was such a smart buy from the start, as you can find parts and fix it to your expectations. A 4x4 Astro is a gem…I wish GM still made them! Probably rides nicer than the truck, too. Thanks Hannah!

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

It rides so much softer, it's a nice change!

@hermanjohnson9180 2 жыл бұрын

That's awesome! I highly recommend a rear differential locker. It should fit the theme of being quite useful while not costing a lot of money. 👍

@danielteves1170 2 жыл бұрын

Nice conversion, looking forward to your adventures with it.

@alanbellkey4592 2 жыл бұрын

Very awesome that you are in an older van that is very affordable and easy to work on Way to go girl and yes I think the gambler 500 would be a blast. Have a happy Thanksgiving!

@carlpaladino427 2 жыл бұрын

The 4wd system seems pretty capable based on the terrain you were on. An economical way to get in the back woods with a mini place to stay.

@jdsrcs8061 2 жыл бұрын

4x4 vans are cool!!! Hate to see you go but love you watch you leave!!!😆😆😆

@ricardostravels3265 2 жыл бұрын

Well done - I can't wait for the lift kit and 33s video. 8-) That's going to be an epic video "an Astro Van Rock Crawling".

@FreedomRock44 2 жыл бұрын

I was waiting for this update.........Great Job Hannah! I know two people that have astro vans and LOVE THEM!!!!!!!!

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

Yess!! Love this=) Thank you so much!

@paulmuniz8472 2 жыл бұрын

Great job Hannah and that van will last you a long time and it is fit for your needs have fun besafe and enjoy!

@DrHannahStraight 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you!! 😊

@user-uo6nz1uu4g 2 жыл бұрын

That’s an amazing customisation job the van, your videos are always so interesting

@peterhoulis1184 2 жыл бұрын

Nice one , good size van , good conversion and total price of van with conversion under $3000 is awesome

@dnlogen 2 жыл бұрын

Fantastic choice on a Astro. I got a AWD one during the pandemic and it's been amazing for camping and getting to the mtns. One little thing I noticed in your vid, I would suggest wrapping your transfer and shifting wiring you installed under the van to protect from wear.