Rangie Forward-Control Hybrid Ideas

I just sold my 110, and have a few years to keep myself busy before I can do any more overland travel. My idea vehicle wouuld combine the best features of a 110 (or Rangie), a 101FC and a Kombi or other van. A *big* diesel engine would be a decided advantage. These pictures (stolen shamelessly from the Web) give a few ideas. My (current) plan is to mount a GMC diesel on the back of a Rangie chassis, and top it with a Kombi T3 body.

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My old 110, now resident in the Fairest Cape Sob, weep. A USA Vanagon (Kombi) Synchro, heavily modified
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Gobs of ground clearance there, but stability might be an issue The tail might need to be lengthened to accomodate a V8 diesel
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This is another approach -- a Ford E350 van (6.9 diesel) converted to 4wd Uses F250/F350 front axle and xfer box
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This thing is huge (16 seater, 4 rows of rear seats) There *is* a downside to lifting the suspension Similar conversion on a smaller van
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A crude idea of what I have in mind. A Rangie has a 10" longer wheelbase, which leaves more space for engine, etc Here are a few notes about possible component placement Rough idea of where major bits would live. Radiators might be front or back.
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The synchromog again, just for comparison

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