Large Family Hauler Ideas? 35+ MPG Wanted

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

If it was me I'd try to adapt a Diesel engine into a Kombi

Originally Posted by M_a_t_t

Whatever mods you can do to an e350 you should be able to do to the toyota.

Not sure how easy it would be to swap the differential of the Sienna as it is for a traditional RWD rig, but it's still worth to also keep an eye for the low-hanging fruit. And since it's smaller, most likely more aerodynamic, the Sienna seems to be a good platform for that project anyway.

[M_a_t_t]

Originally Posted by cRiPpLe_rOoStEr

Not sure how easy it would be to swap the differential of the Sienna as it is for a traditional RWD rig, but it's still worth to also keep an eye for the low-hanging fruit. And since it's smaller, most likely more aerodynamic, the Sienna seems to be a good platform for that project anyway.

You might be able to mod the drivetrain a little easier, but you will be starting so much lower with an e350 (rated 12/16MPG) than the sienna.

If you want a traditional rwd van I might suggest an Astro. Seats 7 or 8 (captain chair vs benches). 5500lb towing capacity. Can swap in a manual transmission from a truck. Re-gearing is easier. I averaged ~18mpg in town with my 95 in stock setup (auto trans).

[Ecky]

Originally Posted by Vman455

Assuming I-80 and today's average of $2.12/gallon, you'll need a vehicle that gets 41mpg to reach the goal of coast-to-coast on $150. There isn't a minivan or SUV that will do that yet unless you go electric. Current minivans aren't much better than your 2007; IIRC the Odyssey and Pacifica are rated 28mpg highway. But the 2021 Sienna will be significantly better, as someone else mentioned, and the Prius V if you're willing to live with something smaller.

Some of Toyota's offerings come darn close, and could probably realistically get 41+ highway.

[funkhoss]

I'm kinda partial to Caprice wagons, personally.

A Caprice/Roadmaster wagon, with the highest gears you can find to put in it (2.28 and 2.14 are easily swappable), aero mods, LRR tires, and engine tuning (software is free, all you need to buy is the cable) should get you easily over 30 MPG highway, approaching 35 MPG. And, do it pretty cheaply, easily, and reliably.

Add a manual trans and EOC, and you can consistently get 40+ MPG. Trust me, I know.

-Funkhoss

[freebeard]

I can see the appeal:


https://i.pinimg.com/originals/b4/ff...562f552352.jpg

[redpoint5]

Prius Limo!

I keep thinking if I have more children I'll get something with privacy glass.



You could always do a Prius with a hitch mounted box, or pull a small trailer.

[freebeard]

Originally Posted by redpoint5

I keep thinking if I have more children I'll get something with privacy glass.

Should i do this with my Metro?

[redpoint5]

Originally Posted by aardvarcus

Based on that, for a turnkey deal a 2021 Sienna Hybrid (claims 36mpg) is the only thing that comes to my mind right off, but for the cost I would suggest modifying your existing van a bit and use it.

I just watched the Alex Dykes video and hadn't been aware of how crazy efficient that new Sienna is. Seems like a better option than that Pacifica I mentioned unless the 30 EV miles would come in handy for daily trips.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_o7a_6SqmM

Originally Posted by freebeard

Should i do this with my Metro?

Hey, looks like that one was hauling Electrathon cars.

I recently dove into the junk stored in the barn and found the frame of the car we built for the PGE races. Still would love to do something with it one day if I can get a Round Tuit.



That bent frame member is from hitting a car that was parked in the center of the race course. You'd think it nearly impossible to hit a parked car with the rear of the EV, but those races were hairy. Someone clips the car and it sends you spinning into the infield.

Our steering mechanism was crude and worked side-to-side rather than a turning wheel. The geometry made for steering that was more digital than progressive. With just a single bicycle brake on the rear rim, qualifying the car was part miracle, and part shenanigans. During one race the plate holding the brake mechanism broke off. I had to radio the driver to inform that not only would the brakes not work, but using them would probably tear up the spokes.

No wonder the program got cancelled, but things were way more fun back when they were way less safe.

[freebeard]

Hey, looks like that one was hauling Electrathon cars.

What is more, I understand that was Dave Cloud and his car. The person on the left is my brother. He has passed on, too.



Another picture with him in it.

[cRiPpLe_rOoStEr]

Originally Posted by freebeard

Should i do this with my Metro?

If you want to turn it into a side-loading hearse...