
This Ambulance Conversion Is a 4x4 Overland Rig With Shower, Toilet, and Hot Tub
This blog post details the innovative ambulance conversion undertaken by an American couple, Chris and Michelle, transforming a 2003 E450 ambulance into a 4x4 overland rig. The article highlights how this conversion serves as an affordable and mobile alternative within the tiny house movement, leveraging the inherent durability and storage capacity of an ambulance. The couple initially purchased the ambulance for $8,500 from the Skykomish, Washington, fire department, and completed a primary conversion for a few thousand dollars. Their initial travels during summer holidays, enabled by Michelle's teaching schedule and Chris's remote work, led them to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. This commitment prompted Michelle to leave her teaching job and rent out their house, facilitating more extensive travel.
A subsequent, more intensive redesign focused on refining the interior, exterior, plumbing, and electrical systems to allow for comfortable camping in cold weather. The vehicle, affectionately named "Tanya The Ambulance," is now painted gray and equipped with advanced features like two WiFi booster antennae and off-road recovery kits, enabling access to and work from remote locations. Special attention was given to the plumbing and heating systems to prevent freezing, ensuring functionality during winter.
Inside, the ambulance features a simple, open layout. The kitchen area includes a three-burner propane stovetop, a range hood, and an undermount sink. An additional window was installed for natural lighting, and the backsplash, mimicking embossed bronze metal tile, adds a retro aesthetic. A removable panel conceals the centralized electrical wiring, which was rewired during the second phase of the build for easier control.
The rear of the ambulance houses an elevated bed platform that doubles as a sitting and dining area, with a slide-out table and a built-in bench. A Dometic refrigerator and freezer can be pulled out and also functions as a seat. The original glass-front ambulance cabinets above the bed are repurposed for storing books, board games, and liquor. To prevent mold and mildew, the bed rests on an air-flow promoting mat, and a top-mounted screen is installed for movie viewing.
The shower and toilet room, located near the entry door, features a bent aluminum door and waterproof fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) walls. It includes a roof vent to prevent condensation and a space-saving cassette toilet. The shower water temperature can be electronically programmed. Near the front, the couple's closet space is organized with one side for hanging coats and shoes, and the other utilizing a modified IKEA shelf for folded clothes. Two swivel seats provide additional sofa-like seating. A reinforced cellular blind, noted for its high insulative R-value, helps maintain interior warmth.
Perhaps the most notable innovation is the collapsible hot tub, constructed from plywood sheets, trailer brackets, a tarp lining, and a military surplus M67 immersion heater. This gas-powered system can heat many gallons of water in a few hours, allowing for hot soaks in remote, scenic locations. The total investment for the ambulance purchase and both conversion phases amounted to approximately $40,000. Chris and Michelle continue to travel to natural destinations, particularly favoring cold weather travel. Their project exemplifies creative and adaptable approaches to mobile living.
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