Affordable and Reliable Ford Transit Ambulances for Emergency Services

The Popularity of Ford Transit Ambulances

The Ford Transit has become an increasingly popular base model for ambulance conversions. With its spacious cargo area, durable build, and fuel-efficient engine options, the Ford Transit provides an ideal platform for building out a reliable and effective emergency medical services (EMS) vehicle.

An Affordable Alternative for Emergency Services

For many emergency service providers, the ability to purchase and operate affordable ambulances is crucial. As budgets for emergency services remain tight, the Ford Transit has offered these organizations an economical option without sacrificing essential capabilities.

Outfitted properly, Ford Transit ambulances allow providers to deliver quality pre-hospital care at costs often tens of thousands of dollars below other popular ambulance models. For cash-strapped EMS departments, the savings a Ford Transit ambulance offers over other vehicles can mean being able to staff an additional unit or offer more continuing education for EMTs and paramedics.

Customizable to Meet Emergency Needs

While affordability makes Ford Transits enticing, their ultimate effectiveness relies on custom ambulance builders delivering well-designed emergency care compartments. Thankfully, the cavernous cargo space of these vans can be transformed to handle everything needed to provide medical services on the road.

The long wheelbase high roof configuration, in particular, allows plenty of headroom for attendants and space for features like:

• LED scene lighting
• Medical oxygen and suctioning equipment
• Stretchers, cots, stair chairs
• Cabinets and storage for tools and supplies
• Emergency vehicle warning systems

This versatility and customizability allow Ford Transit ambulances to take on roles ranging from basic emergency transport to mobile intensive care. With the right outfitting, they can serve rural areas and crowded cities with equal proficiency.

Finding Quality Ford Transit Ambulances for Sale

For EMS departments looking to put a Ford Transit ambulance in service, purchasing from a reputable dealer is strongly advised. Not only do these sellers understand how to equip ambulances properly, they also offer invaluable after-sale support should any issues emerge.

What to Look For in an Ambulance Dealer

When evaluating ambulance dealers, key factors to consider include:

• Industry experience - How long has the company been serving emergency medical providers? Do they have demonstrated familiarity with Ford Transits and ambulance builds?
• Range of offerings - Can the dealer provide both new and used Ford Transit ambulances? What styles and floorplans are available? How customizable are their vehicles to your department's needs?
• Certified construction - Do they follow rigorous processes to meet or exceed national ambulance construction standards? Are all safety components and installations certified?
• Warranties and service - What warranty coverage comes included on ambulance purchases? Does the dealer offer reliable repair services post-purchase?

Avoiding Pitfalls

When evaluating Ford Transit ambulance listings, EMS shoppers should watch out for:

• Uncertified conversions - Ambulances built without following national safety standards often prove unreliable and may be illegal to operate.
• DIY modifications - Privately-done or one-off ambulance alterations typically fall well short of what professional dealers can provide.
• High mileage units - While Ford Transits hold up well, high-mileage examples past 100,000 miles merit careful inspection before purchase.

Finding the Right Ford Transit Ambulance for Your EMS Department

Ultimately, identifying an ideal Ford Transit ambulance comes down to accurately assessing your department's needs and budget versus what responsible dealers can provide. Taking the time to research ambulance sellers, review listings thoroughly, and inspect any vehicle before purchase is essential.

If done properly though, putting a custom-equipped Ford Transit ambulance into service can prove one of the wisest equipment decisions your EMS agency will make. These vehicles offer an unmatched combination of affordability, capability, and longevity - exactly what's needed to provide emergency personnel with reliable mobile platforms for life-saving work.

FAQs

What are the main benefits of choosing a Ford Transit as an ambulance?

The Ford Transit offers ambulance builders and EMS providers several advantages, including affordable pricing, excellent cargo/interior space for customization, proven durability and engine performance, and good fuel economy ratings for its class.

What kind of mileage can I expect from a Ford Transit ambulance?

Properly maintained Ford Transit ambulances can often stay in service past 200,000 miles. Many EMS agencies see reliable service from their units up to 100-150k miles as long as preventative maintenance is followed and any major issues are addressed quickly.

What certifications should an ambulance dealer have?

Reputable ambulance dealers should be fully certified to state or national ambulance vehicle construction standards. This guarantees their vehicles meet all safety requirements and are legal for emergency medical transport based on local regulations.

What warranty comes with Ford Transit ambulances?

Most dealers offer at least 12 month/12,000 mile limited warranties on new ambulances. Some may extend this coverage further for engine, transmission, or conversion components. Used Ford Transit ambulances may have more limited warranty coverage based on age and mileage at purchase.