RC Van Build Series

In this episode, we will take a close look at the 2021 Mercedes-Benz 2500 High Roof Sprinter with 144" wheel base. We will also look at the custom satin wrap, custom wheels and a few other fun features. The commentary below supplements what we show in the video.

WHY WE PICKED THE 2500 144" WB

There are cargo trailer pilots, van pilots and RV pilots. I happen to be a guy who refuses to deal with a trailer even though they are less expensive than a van. I like everything packaged into ONE vehicle. Since I've already owned the RAM Promaster 1500 and very much dislike the cabin, I decided to invest in a 2021 Mercedez-Benz Sprinter van. It's top of the heap in my view. That said, Ford, Nissan and RAM all make affordable vans that will do the job; it's just personal preference at the end of the day.

I chose the HIGH ROOF but SHORT WHEELBASE cargo model for several reasons:

1. I dislike long, unwieldy vehicles
2. I like being able to stand inside the van (at my height, the low roof would have worked) AND have room above my models to store more stuff.
3. Why pay for seats and windows when you are not going to use them? In my case, the cargo van has ONE purpose only -- to serve the RC gods (and me).

WHY THE WRAP AND OFF-ROAD TIRES?

In a word -- FUN! There is no good reason to gussy up your van other than to satisfy your eyeballs every time you look at it. It also goes a long way toward dispelling the neighborhood rumor that you offer candy to kids from your white panel van. I modified the wheels and tires because there is NOTHING cool about van tires. They are just butt ugly.

POWER UPGRADE?

The Mercedes-Benz diesel engine uses turbo to achieve specified horsepower ranges. As a result, there is lag between mashing the pedal and actually accelerating. The RennTech tune we put on the van smooths out the acceleration curve and gives the van a bit more pep for passing. I won't be drag racing anyone, but they won't be calling me "granny" either.

Now watch the video!

Our sponsors and mentioned product links for this episode are:

Mercedes-Benz of Oklahoma City - https://mbokc.com
Horizon Hobby - https://horizonhobby.com
Slide Master - https://slide-master.com
RBComponents - https://rbcomponents.com
Owl Vans - https://owlvans.com