#1 Buying an old Ford Box Truck [to live in]
We did a thing
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Welcome to season two ;) PS: If anyone knows 12v electrical wizards in the western US and/or tig welders, pls dm me on instagram
@civicgsr19
Жыл бұрын
How far west? I know lots of people in the Oklahoma area...
@delbrett2257
Жыл бұрын
Come to NW Mo, mig welder, electrical experience, not going to work daily so lots of free labor and help. Can even spray some paint lol Maybe a climb thru window from the cab to the back would be a cool safety feature to have!
@KyleRuggles
Жыл бұрын
Check out Maker Space to build and use tools and park!
@JRods2
Жыл бұрын
Should see if Pimp My Ride is still in business! 😉. Ford makes solid vehicles. Good choice
@Parkitloveit
Жыл бұрын
Congratulations 🎉❤🏕💐
Congrats on the new rig! Make sure you have an escape hatch into the drivers compartment.
@astrogypsy
Жыл бұрын
I second that.
@lardo666
Жыл бұрын
If you have a fire, that hatch is your ticket to survival. Think where to put it so it won't get blocked by all the good things you build in the back. Maybe plan to use it to avoid rain and cold outside - then it will always be clear. Also - fire and carbon monoxide detectors are affordable - fit them soon, then bad things happening at night can't become really bad... Have fun - if I was 40 years younger the road would be tempting me too.
@astrogypsy
Жыл бұрын
@@lardo666 Also, getting from the domestic area to the driver's seat without going outside is a plus if weird sh!t goes down and you have to leave in a hurry.
@johnmcwilliam3395
Жыл бұрын
Yes! That is a must have in these box rigs. Not to mention, RV regulations mandate a secondary egress path. I'd think she'd have that covered with an egress window in the sleeping area though. And it's not so much as for an “escape” (Though equally important for a solo camper.), but as an: “It’s pouring down rain hatch.” They are actually pretty easy to fabricate/install on these boxes. Pass-Through seals are cheap. The center jump seat is easily removable. She really doesn’t have a choice, regardless. And let's not forget how much Finn would appreciate it.
@juliehoot3916
Жыл бұрын
JKFlorida, what a great idea! For sure!
She's BACK... and we are happy again :) A long path of new growth, learning, fun, and memories lay ahead, Mariah. GO GET YOURS.
i love the idea of a vehicle hundreds or thousands of people used to transition from one home to another becoming a home itself ❤
At 70 yrs old now I can assure you that life is never certain but the moving forward is always worth the effort. Doing something even if you don't know how doesn't mean you can't do it or at least try. There is almost always more than one way to do something don't let the YT EXPERTS tell you are doing it wrong, you're just doing it different. Don't scrimp on the safety items like electricity and wiring. Always fix the small things or else they will turn into huge things. You'll do it and it will be great.
@Ask22
Жыл бұрын
53 year old male living in NY 100% agrees
i wish i saw this video a year from now so i could just binge watch how steve gets built and becomes a home. mariah takes us thru such a heartwarming story over the last few videos
@fastvette15
Жыл бұрын
I thought the same thing! I’m also going to watch her channel grow because of it!
Months ago you inspired me to retire early (I’m 53) buy a van, and build it out. Van arrived in Nov. and I’ve been on the road for 2 weeks now. I learned how to use power tools, wire up electrical, and put in plumbing. Is it perfect? Nope! In some places the trim needed trim to hide mistakes, but I did it. I built my home. You’re right to follow your heart because love builds your soul
Lady, I have followed you from the beginning and you are capable of more than you think ! The smile on your face, the enthusiasm in your voice tells me this will be a success and your own when done. Patiently waiting for your build videos! Oh and your first batch of pancakes in the new home 🙂
Really????? OMG! That’s awesome, Mariah!!!!! My most sincere congratulations for this new companion 🚐😍😍😍. I can’t wait seeing you enjoying it from the very begging to a whole world of new adventures in your life 😊😊😊. What a piece of news!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Aww you can see how excited she is about this. Can't wait to see what you do with the box truck. Congrats!
have to admit that this scares the crap out of me. Good luck! Something you said a long time ago stuck with me. You took a break from your van and did car camping for a few days in California and mentioned how it allowed you to make more adventurous choices because the car was small and nimble. I hope the van does not hold you back from adventures because of size or being older. Recently you mentioned you did think a lot about places you wanted to go and how a bigger rig could get into 80% of them so I know you have thought about this. I am going small for my rig because of what you said and the freedom it allows me. Always a fan! Can't wait to see what you learn in the build process.
One thing to know about Florida. Any inland body of water can have alligators. Never get close to the edge of the bank where they can drag you or your pet in. They are very stealthy and extremely fast and strong.
The U-Haul is a good choice, they use a really well built box. It’s corners are aluminum and very strong unlike many others that use fiberglass or plastic. They E-series is one of the best commercial grade platforms. I has 2 that went well over 300k miles. One thing you’ll have to do is watch the wear on the front tires. The front bushings tend to wear and through off the alignment. Everything else is over built. These vans can also be converted to 4x4. Checkout Brandon Gross’s ambulance build and Cole Webb’s U-Haul build. Cole did exactly what it looks like you want to do. Also, this platform was in production from 1992-2014, so parts are plentiful. Checked out your Patreon.
I’ve watched the last few of your videos and have enjoyed them so much! My little white chihuahua mix dog passed away in January and I have grieved more than I expected. He was 14 and was my little buddy, like your dog. His name was Steve! So when you named your new truck Steve I squealed a little!! You are so inspiring!! Can’t wait to see how you transform Steve and create your new home!! Watching from Houston 😊
wow, that's an interesting choice for a new home on wheels. Also, you are extremely brave to drive through the deep south of the USA. Congrats! Merci
I am so freaking excited for you and Finn - also the fact that you can build a bed in that upper loft has me reconsidering my whole life and whether or not I should upgrade my rig 😂
@jamesbuchholz6830
Жыл бұрын
Was this mentioned/hinted as a plan... because that was my absolute first though when I saw it ("well, that's where the bed will go") but... it sounded like she had other plans for it. And what about... "guest bed?" ... That upper space is practically a whole guest room! And, she already has a couch/bed/bathtub, and a lot of ideas. Alas... we wait.
Oh thank God, I was scared you were gonna get an apartment, looking forward to watching Steve evolve.
I'm super excited to watch you create a life with Steve! FYI you do make sense, some of us understand exactly how you feel. Edit to add, keep following your intuition, instinct and you can't go wrong... mostly 😁❤
Oh gosh one thing I hope that you do is to make an entryway from the inside of the box truck to get into the cab. That way you can get out of weird situations whether it's weather related or a bear is bugging you or some weirdo person. That way if you're sleeping you can just get up and go right straight into the cab instead of having to get out to get into the cab. I have a shuttle bus and that's exactly why I bought one so I wouldn't have to get out of a camper to get to the front of the truck to get out of a weird situation. Anyway keep on keeping on toots! I can't wait to see your creation....
Ive been watching you for a while now and if no one has told you lately. Im proud of you. You have grown so much inside and out. You can see happiness all over your face and it looks good on you. Stay happy my friend
Finn just melts my heart. He’s so precious! I am so excited for your new journey and can’t wait to see how you build out your new home 😊
I don't normally comment but I have watched all your videos. This is honestly so exciting. I'm so happy you are sharing this experience. Can't wait for what is to come. Good luck! You'll do amazing regardless of what happens because you did it!
You are a very brave young lady with the world at your feet ! Enjoy your journey and enjoy life as you obviously are ! I worked as a mechanic at uhaul ,these trucks are very well built ,Good luck in your new adventure !! You only live life once and live to create memories ! 20 years from now you will look back at this time in your life and smile 😃
I am a contractor who travels and lives all over the place for work. I purchased a trailer sailboat and lived on it for quite a while and now have a short, 35 ft school bus. I technically have an address at a friend's house but I am on the bus more than I am there. It is very spartan at the moment but I really enjoy it. My plans are to one day have it fully outfitted to be able to do disaster relief work but I do want it self sustaining first. Enjoy your journey and never let anybody make you feel small for not living what they consider a normal life.
Seeing the emotional end to the last van and now the opening title as #1 is truly impactful.
Awesome, congrats on your new home. I can see the glow of happiness in your face, good for you. Will be cheering from this side on your new project endeavor and get to learn more of Steve.
I agree. If a joker blocks you in, you could be stranded in there, depending on a cell signal. Then, who do you call? No window to crawl out. Great truck.
Enjoy it while you're young and healthy. I'm 41 now and starting to have heart problems. I'd love to do what you're doing but I don't think I'll ever be able to now. I'll have to live vicariously through your videos!
Congratulations Mariah! I love following your adventures. You have been an inspiration to me to follow my dream. I've purchased a converted Ford transit van and will start living out of it ,on the road within the year. Maybe someday our paths may cross. All the best and safe travels . PS. My adventures started in Alaska this June and I'll be here in Homer untill January. Then back to FL. To where my van waits for me.
@psychopompous3207
Жыл бұрын
Do you have any plans to KZread?
Wow! A Box truck!? Didn’t see that coming! But I know it’s going to be amazing when you are done converting it! You a such a strong person!! So excited for you and Finn for this next chapter!! ❤
Jeez, there's so many things you can do to that thing. I'd remove the overhead door & put in a back wall with a door like Brian the Adventurevanman did and make a hatch or access door so you can get to the cargo compartment from the cab without having to go outside. Plus it would allow you to bug out safely if something was going on outside & you needed to get away. This build is going to be a lot of fun to watch.
Let's go Season 2! Glad to see I'm not the only one who sees life as just Seasons in a Television Show. 📺
Congrats on the new rig! Will be interesting to see your build out progress over time. I’m sure you have plenty of ideas to mull over as you start the work. If you can work it in a side door would be a cool addition. Have fun!
Congrats on your new truck! I know you will turn it into your perfect home. A word of caution when you come back to Florida, if you are near any lakes or ponds, make sure to have your dog on a leash and close to you. Gators love little dogs. Best of luck with the build. I look forward to following your progress.
I keep watching all these box truck episodes over and over. It gets me excited about my own journey. Just so happens, this episode was uploaded the day after I bought my box truck. I still have tons of work to do but maybe we will cross paths one day. 😊
I got the 07 version of that truck from Uhaul 3 years ago. I have a floating queen bed, 900 amp hours of gel batteries, 700 watts residential solar, a hatch, two fans and a deck on the roof, swing doors with drop bolts, a pass through, a desk where you’ve planned your desk and shower where you planned your kitchen. I love it. It kicks ass and I have not spent base promaster money on it yet. Get motorcraft plugs and coils as soon as you can. The OEM ones can fail in ways that kill the engine. 10 ply sidewall AT tires are good as are airbag bump stops on your rear leaf springs. Also protect your Catalytic Converter. It is very easy to take and not cheap to replace. I’m working on the latter after experiencing the former. The ramp pulled out to four or five feet does not have room to drop making a very nice outdoor workbench. Look at superstrut in the electrical isle of the next Home Despot or Lols you stop in. Along with more space, weight is now much less of an issue for you. You canz haz nice things!
Good for you Mariah! You are going do great building out your new home. Excited to follow you on this new journey.
Congratulations on your purchase of Steve. Super excited for the new content. Huge love ❤ from Canada.
Your stop in Pensacola beach is our favorite vacationing spot. I know exactly where you were. You are very resourceful with your “van plan”. I planned to do the exact same thing. But, we bought a cargo trailer & rigged it ourselves for travel the same as you are doing. Very simple & we love it. Godspeed!
I just bought an e450 shuttle bus myself. "The wheels on my hoome go... round and round, round and round... round and round. The wheels on my home go round and round, so early in the morning". Maybe one day we'll run into each other on the road.
Just found ur channel yesterday and was hoping you’d post your update today. I hopped on KZread at the perfect time- good luck on your new journey! 😁
Love the name and your excitement about this. Poor Finn is not sure what is happening and really just wants to know where his warm bed went but he looks like he is hanging in there.
@Those Happy Days have a gorgeous truck, have a look at their layout. Looking forward to seeing the build journey and new adventures! ❤
I've been following you for a couple months now and you gave me chills when you came to my town, Pensacola! I'm so excited you took the time to enjoy a rainy day here 🌧️🤗 Looking forward to the next part of your story!
I absolutely love seeing the excitement in your eyes and hearing it in your voice! I agree with you Mariah, that box truck is already more you than the van ever was. Not that the van wasn’t nice. It’s just a feeling I got when you first rented the U-Haul. Can’t wait to see what’s to come!😁
I am so happy to see what comes next congratulations on the new van!
VERY KOOL!!! FOR 22 YEARS I'VE DRIVEN A 16' BOX TRUCK FOR WORK AND EVERY TIME I'M IN IT, NOT A DAY GOES BY THAT I DON'T PICTURE/PLAN OUT IN MY HEAD ABOUT HOW EASY AND KOOL IT'D BE TO BUILD IT OUT AND LIVE IN IT. I ENVY YOU. GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY TRAVEL ADVENTURES! BTW...I THINK I'D HAVE THAT TRUCK LOOKED OVER REALLY WELL BY A GOOD MECHANIC IF YOU CAN. JUST FOR THE PEACE OF MIND... GREAT VIDEO!!!!!
I like to hear that compassion in your voice. The excitement and joy. I’m so glad to hear that you are following your dreams. I wish I would have done the same. I don’t know you but just saying I am proud of you for doing what you are doing. Have fun and be safe out there. Maybe God bless your journey through life.
It will be fun to watch your new adventures! Best wishes for great outcomes!
I’m so excited for you ! I’m buying a box truck too and I’m turning it into my tiny home and I’m very happy to watch ur journey as well
You made the decision that is a part of you! You have gained so much strength in yourself and that was so important for you. You have the power to make that old truck into your new home in time. You look so excited when sharing that vision within you. Congratulations on the next step in your life Mariah.
Mariah all I have to say is OMG!!!! I am so excited to see and be with you on this new journey. It's so beautiful to see your adventures! please never stop being who you are❣
Team ford baby!! We have the exact same front cab lol. So excited for you Mariah. Can’t wait to get Steve and Monarch together.
@MariahAlice
Жыл бұрын
Soon soon!!
Steve has so much room for activities! Hope Finn is taking things well, good luck Mariah.
I'm so excited to watch your new van process! I've really been thinking about just going for it and watching your journey just makes me even more excitedd
Congratulations Mariah, you deserve so much joy and blessings… what a gorgeous new beginning!! Proud of you 🤍🌼🐥
Can’t wait to see what you create with Steve! Congrats to you both!
So excited for phase 2! Hopefully you can make it though NM again! I’ll keep an eye out for a super fly ford box truck. 😊
I don't have any idea why KZread suggested your videos to me. I saw the one in Utah where it snowed and then just wanted to see how you were doing, so I came straight to your newest video. I adore your box van. I often think about converting the exact box van style you've got there. You haven't done it yet, obviously, but I love that you're going to put in a bath tub. My greatest joy in the world is a nice hot bath. A box van with a tub in the back...perfection. I actually have a dream to build a van/bus/something into a mobile onsen/japanese bath house. You don't need to know that, but yeah, a bath in a box van...I love it. Water storage/weight is probably going to be your biggest problem, but you seem to have a good thinker in that noggin, so I have no doubt you can pull it off if it's important enough for you. Not that its important, but I completely understand your reasons for flying to florida to get the van. You are doing it right. Also, please, 2006 isn't that old. Keep up on the maintenance and she'll treat you right. I'm not sure about the name Steve, but I get it. I truly wish I could be living the box van life also, but that just wasn't in the cards yet. Maybe some day. Honestly, I think I'll end up south of the boarder, someplace with sloths, but again, you didn't need to know that. Any, I'm kinda a bit socially awkward and have no idea how to end this comment, so...yeah, keep it up and rock on.
Congratulations on the new truck - I can’t wait to see this one finished. I’m so happy you are still in the van life
Much better than a van. Fantastic idea. 5 stars excellent video.
Going old pickup truck and travel trailer myself and think I may get going soon thank goodness! (Fingers crossed) Can't wait to get my dogs out this apartment and into the country. Hope the box truck treats you well!
The 12’ box is my favorite platform! Building my 2nd one right now!
Ok, so. I have been watching your blogs for maybe 2 or more years, I have seen the everyday ups and downs of your life. I have never commented on any of them as didnt want to be seen as just another old guy watching a young woman, but feel the need to now. I wish more people would have your outlook on life, it's there to be lived, to be shared, to be loved but mainly to do with it as we please. You do that. I am proud of all my children, I hope your family are proud of you. I would be proud to have you as a daughter..
Living in a box! Go Mariah! Love to Finn xx
I can’t wait to see what it will look like once it’s finished!
Congratulations! I’m looking forward to watching your journey as you build out this truck. Wishing you all the best ❤️
Happy for you! I think you are so brave. Been watching your videos for a while. Always happy when I see you posted. God Bless you and keep you safe!
Not. At. All. What I was expecting 😂😂😂 and yet, it fits. Glad to have you back! (Even if it’s sporadic). Can’t wait to follow your build out. Congratulations. 🎉
@MariahAlice
Жыл бұрын
this made me giggle omg, thanks!
You are so brave and so ... powerful... I am not sure you realize. You are doing something great and you are living your dream. You will never forget these times and keep up the great work. For the rest of us that are not brave and not powerful. Follow your heart, it seems to be doing a great job so far.
I did this same thing with a box truck, I built it out as more a rough and tumble work and play rig. Drove it from Missouri to Alaska to Wyoming, I miss that little home on wheels!!
Your little dog just melts my heart
So, I am not sure why but this lady makes it all very enjoyable to watch.
New truck/van builds are so exciting. Looking forward to your design ideas. Congratulations on picking up Steve.
Hi Maria. I’ve only just started following you and watching your story unfold. Your a really inspiration. I live on Motor Yacht and have just purchased my first Camper van. It’s already been converted but I can’t wait to get started by putting my own stamp on it. Look forward to the amazing journey that’s now ahead of you. Stay strong. You can definitely do this. I can’t wait see the outcome. Kind regards and respect to you. Andy x
You go girl ....I did it to my conversion van....everything my self. Great journey
Awwwwwsome girl! I discovered you about a month ago and have literally been binge watching all of your videos!!😅 You are an inspiring young woman and you’ve helped in giving me this little impulsion I needed to peruse my own dream of van life❤, so thank you! I wish you all the best with this new home and… let the adventure continue! Really excited for you, looking forward to see the build process🎉
That’s awesome, over the last year I’ve built a house by myself and the best advice I can give is take it one precut at a time and before you know it you will be done and have a bunch of new skills and tools.
I just found this channel today and I’m so excited to see how everything turns out! I love watching van-life videos and thank god I found this video only 1 day after upload! I will for sure watch this like a Netflix series and I’m so happy to be able to watch from the beginning of this new adventure! ❤
Think you helped me make my choice. Been back and forth on a van and a box truck. Thank you! First time I've seen your videos as well and I'm looking forward to seeing your journey.
This is so exciting! Glad that you're pursuing all the things that just feel right. I'm working on that. You've probably already watched the youtube van build of Linnea and Akela ... she explained so clearly how she set up her electrical system. Then had another build helping her brother with a cargo truck, like yours! Looking forward to seeing your van build!
You have a blank canvas, create, make a beautiful home. I’m so glad you have your dog with you. Be strong.
Congratulations, Mariah. And a big *'welcome!'* to Steve. Looking forward to seeing how both of you grow through this process. Cheers!
I am so stoked for you in this new adventure ! Can't wait to see what it all looks like once it's built out !
Box truck is a great way to go, for designing livable space. Well done.
Nice seeing you back and I am wishing you all the best in this new adventure.
Back up cam a must. Instant life changer
I'm definitely going to be watching your journey along the way. I'm a senior in high school saving up for a van/bus/box truck to convert when I'm in college and this should serve as a good example. Good luck and congrats on the new truck
I’m so excited to follow this new journey. Congratulations
LMFAO the minecraft fire and music!!!! I bought a 24 foot box truck a year ago and haven't looked back! Enjoy the build, hopefully patreons let your creative side flow!
I loved the smile on your face as you started driving your new truck headed to the left coast! What a wonderful new adventure! I'm sure there will be challenges, but how cool to be able to create yours and Finns new home!
The east coast is such a paradise when compared to the west coast with the possible exception of weather. Individual, feelings, and emotions seem to be the top priorities in the west. Community, family, and freedoms are the top priorities in the east. Best of luck with your new build. Safe travels.
Well done, such an awesome display of bravery. Thank you for having us along.
Congratulations in your new rig and the best moments for this new chapter
I don't know you, but I'm proud of you for chasing what you desire not letting anything hold you back. You got this!!!
I'm so happy for you! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
It was so cool to see you enjoy your stay in Pensacola, born and raised there and the beach is my favorite place ever 💙 so excited to watch your journey with Steve unfold!
Nice to meet you Steve!!! I can't wait to see how you grow and develop! Yay for season 2
These experiences build confidence, I think my road trips through the southwest usa when I was a young adult were so beneficial to my growth as a person. Hope you have fun with the build, learning all the skills you will need, seems like such a fun thing to do. Follow your gut. Good Job
Congratulations on your new home. Been away for a while and it's nice to watch your videos again. Best wishes and safe travels 🌞🤙🌈