Our Newest Adventure Rig: The 2008 Chevy 3500 Van Build
We’ve been dreaming up the ultimate adventure setup for a while now, and our latest project is finally coming to life! Meet our newest rig: a 2008 Chevy 3500 Express Cutaway Van with a massive 16-foot box. This beast of a van isn’t just any old conversion—it’s a purpose-built machine designed to haul our prized 2020 Road Glide motorcycle in the back while flat towing our rugged 2012 Jeep JK Wrangler behind us. Yep, you read that right: this van is the Swiss Army knife of adventure vehicles, blending van life comfort with the versatility to take our favorite toys anywhere the road (or trail) leads.
2008 Chevy Express 3500 Cut Away Van
When we snagged this Chevy 3500, we knew it had potential far beyond its utilitarian roots. The 16-foot box gives us a cavernous space to work with, and we’re not wasting an inch of it. The star of the show? A custom garage area in the back, specifically designed to securely haul the Road Glide. We’ve been sketching out ideas for a reinforced floor, tie-down points, and maybe even a foldable ramp to make loading and unloading a breeze. It’s not just about function, though—we’re tossing in some unique design touches to make this space feel less like a garage and more like an extension of our rolling home.
Of course, the van isn’t just a motorcycle hauler. Up front, we’re carving out a cozy living space that’s all about comfort and practicality. Think compact kitchenette, a snug sleeping area, and clever storage solutions for all our gear. We’re leaning into some quirky design elements here—maybe a reclaimed wood accent wall or some funky lighting—to give it that personal vibe. The goal is to strike a balance between a functional basecamp and a place we can kick back after a long day of riding or wheeling. It’s still a work in progress, but the vision is coming together one bolt at a time.
The real magic happens when you add the Jeep into the mix. Flat towing our 2012 JK Wrangler behind the van opens up a world of possibilities. Once we’re parked, the Jeep’s ready to tackle off-road trails while the Road Glide handles the open highway. It’s the best of both worlds—two vehicles, one tow setup, and a van that ties it all together. We’ve been geeking out over the logistics, from picking the perfect tow bar to making sure the van’s suspension can handle the extra weight. This isn’t just a build; it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
What makes this rig so exciting is its versatility. One weekend, we could be cruising to a motorcycle rally with the Road Glide gleaming in the back. The next, we might be deep in the woods, unhitching the Jeep for some serious off-roading. The 2008 Chevy 3500 might not be the newest kid on the block, but its sturdy frame and cavernous box make it the perfect canvas for our wildest adventure dreams. We’re throwing in some unique flair—think custom paint or decals—to make it stand out from the sea of white vans out there.
We’re still in the thick of the build process, but every late night in the garage feels worth it. This van isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a ticket to freedom, a rolling headquarters for epic road trips, and a testament to what you can create with a little ingenuity. Stay tuned for updates as we finish this bad boy—next up, we’ll be testing the towing setup and putting the interior design to the test. If you’ve got tips or just want to follow along, drop us a line. The open road is calling, and our Chevy 3500 is almost ready to answer!
