I take great joy in seeing the strong bidding for this awesome 1982 Chevrolet G30 Trans Van made by Champion. I actually have a Dodge version of this same exact model for sale in Georgia for a far lower price, albeit needing more work, but there’s no denying that fans of the 80s recognize the various models made under the Trans Van flag are peak period-correct if you want a home on wheels with style that hasn’t been seen before or since this compact RV was made. Find it here on eBay where bidding has crept past $19,000 with no reserve and located in Wayland, Michigan.
The Trans Van was built on a few different chassis, including those from Ford, Dodge and Chevrolet. Each used the same basic recipe, with the standard front cabin space preserved and a custom body by Champion added with the off-the-wall stripes kit you see here. That’s what always impressed me: no matter which model you ordered, the Trans Van kit maintained the same consistent decal theme. What’s even cooler than the outside appearance is the robust construction: TransVans body frames were constructed with steel beams, not the flimsy wood like most RVs that would quickly get wet and fall apart shortly after water intrusion began.
Frankly, that explains why the one I’m hawking still looks reasonably solid despite years of inactivity; you can see a picture of it here. Unlike mine, however, this one is absolutely mint inside. Really mint. The fake wood paneling is in outstanding condition, as are the carpets and appliances. The seller notes this example was owned by an Air Force Veteran up until last year, and has just 64,000 miles on it. The single long-time owner clearly cherished his Trans Van, and based on the mileage, I’m guessing it was used for seasonal road trips as opposed to being lived in for months or years at a time. Good news: the A/C system has been recently serviced with a new pump and converted to R134A.
Man, look at that upholstery – this has late 70s all over it. There’s seating for 10 and sleeping space for four, and despite its smaller size, this Trans Van appears to have tons of space. But that could be an optical illusion: owners would eventually complain about the ceiling height, or lack thereof, which forced most passengers to duck as they moved throughout the cabin. Still, unless you’re a professional basketball player, most of us will be able to live with a lower ceiling in exchange for lounging on this groovy couch. The seller notes the 5.7L V8 runs well, and that recent maintenance includes a new starter, alternator, battery, tune up, fuel pump, shocks, and synthetic oil change. When the open road is calling, it’s best to answer.
It’s located in Wayland,Michigan.
There is a distinct lack of blue in the color palette.
The person selling this deals in buying and selling Class B campers. The fix, renovate, rebuild, and even restore.
They find nice stuff. I think they’ve been featured on this site before.
Steve R
Sold! $26k Pretty cool layout, but the color pallet is something I can’t get use to.
Your just not old enough..
After years of early VW Type 2 camper ownership, I tend to always look for a basic built in bathroom facility on any camper, as a must have.
Which this one appears to have, in the rear opposite the kitchen.
The last thing I want is a bathroom in my vehicle, regardless of it’s purpose. Plenty of places to stop and do your business and not have to haul it around!
Interesting how the word ‘trans’ has taken on a whole new meaning.
boy, dat guy never even farted in there (mommie raised that military brat right – “Make ur bed Johnny.”) I have experience~
8^0
I C no shower? (but a carpet ensconsed tolet?). I’d trade 90% of the bed space for one AND a 5 – 9 sq ft fridge.
I thought this was a “Class C” motorhome, Geo?
Must be one of the worst floor layouts ever seen in a camper.
its really more of a day-traveler. The rear section for the toilet and galley actually hang behind the back wheels to get stand-up room so there isn’t anyplace you could put a shower. As such, a hitch on one of these requires quite a bit of fabrication and not made to haul much more than your average boat. I’ve considered finding one of these for years to pull my vintage FV to the track for a place to get in out of the weather and an occasional overnighter. This one looks really nice and well out of my budget however…
I have a 1979 dodge trans van
I have 1979 dodge trans van like this one.just different colors inside
I also have a ’79 Dodge Trans Van like this, just shorter.
I recently came into possession of a 1980 Chevy Transvan, 350 automatic 5.7L. I’m unsure as to the last time it ran but I have plans to get it up and running in the spring. The interior is in ok condition (the body too) and I’m wondering if it makes most sense to keep as much original detail as possible.
Hi all: I also have acquired a Transvan.
A 1990 Ford E 350. It was in poor condition overall except for the new set of shoes, ( new rubber all the way around.)… Repaired the floor in the back
Purchased a dinette set and side sleeper couch from an RV supply (new)
Serviced the fridge, water heater, and
Air conditioner. All together I have about
6 K in this RV. Perfect size for a weekender 2 or 3 days. And yes it has a
Very small bathroom, toilet with a shower. I Love, Love, Love my
Transvan. Thanks for reading. T
I just bought a 1982 chevy Trans van plan on restoring it.
Does anybody know where I can find tail light assembly for a Trans Van by Champion, mine is a 1986 chevrolet chassis G30
I believe you’ll find your tail light to be similar aged Pontiac if I remember