Overview

2004 Chevy Astro off-grid camper conversion, nicknamed ‘Bill the Spacevan’. This van is a great deal for someone who enjoys van life and is willing to do some mechanical work.

Condition & Features

Fuel: Gasoline (4.3 Vortec V6 engine, smooth-running)
Drive Type: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Condition: Needs mechanical and body work (see WORK NEEDED below)
Interior: Cozy, high-quality conversion with:
- 100W Renergy solar panel + controller
- 120Ah deep-cycle marine battery + 120Ah charge meter
- 600W power inverter (120V AC appliances)
- LED lights (house battery & main battery)
- LED strip lights
- Battery-to-battery charger (optional)
- Single mattress (very good condition)
- Folding bed platform with storage underneath
- Sink, 8-gallon water supply, USB pump, drain bucket
- Polysio foam board + Reflectix insulation (excellent thermal performance)
- White wood-grain veneer walls, privacy curtain
Electrical: All electronics, signals, and AC work (AC not functional)
Towing: Rated for up to 5500 lb, runs great, drives and stops well
Body Work Needed:
- Rusty fuel line & two brake lines (replace/repair)
- Front/rear brakes (new pads/calipers likely)
- Rusty driver side rocker panel (weldable)
- Rust in rear wheel arch (repair needed)
- Minor bubbling on sliding door
- Surface rust on underside (Krown treated, winter-driven once)
Electrical/Other: No dashboard warning lights except brake warning
Tires: New winter tires with good tread
Roadworthiness: Not roadworthy; will need towing upon sale

Mechanical Work Required

Replace/repair rusted fuel line and two brake lines.
Perform new front (and likely rear) brake system (pads, calipers, hoses).
Replace rusted driver side rocker panel (weld-in replacement panel).
Repair rust in rear wheel arch.
Minor bodywork on sliding door.

Why Choose This Van?

Unique off-grid camper: Already converted with solar, battery, LED lighting, and comfortable interior.
Low mileage for its age (220k km) and well-maintained engine.
Great value: Asking price $3500 CAD for a ready-to-modify camper shell.
Potential for customization: Fully functional underbody, ready for additional solar, batteries, or upgrades.
RWD platform suitable for towing up to 5500 lb.
Fully functional electrics (except AC) and no major structural frame issues.

Next Steps

If you’re interested in van life or need a reliable camper conversion project, reach out to discuss offers or potential trades. The van is listed as Wainfleet, ON and will require towing to a new owner.