New Sprinter

newmilford

New member
Hello folks. New member here who is just starting my search for a Sprinter.
We are leaning toward the 170" crew version. Options would include high roof, roof mounted A/C, trailer hitch with 7 way, shelves, and I don't know what else we may require.
Are there any tips for a newbie?
Thanks for reading.

Mike
 

sailquik

Well-known member
Hi newmilford/ Mike, and welcome to Sprinter_source.
What is your intended use for the new Sprinter?
Will it be used commercially with commercial tags?
You need to be aware of the GVW and GCVW regulations and how
that may effect how you register your Sprinter.
If you want rear AC and shelves, it almost sounds like a mobile
work inside van.
If you are going more in the RV/camping van direction, there are
more choices.
Since you want a trailer package, how large a trailer are you considering?
The choice between 2500 and 3500 vans can effect the GVWR and GCWR
substantially.
Roger
 

newmilford

New member
Hello Roger,
Thanks for the prompt response.
My wife and I will travel the USA in the sprinter towing a Casita TT. We are looking at 2500 models.
There will be no commercial use.
Mobile work van, no, my wife just wants to organize our things better and the additional A/C will be needed in the desert southwest.
RV/camping, yes, exactly.
Trailer is 17 ft long and approx. 3,000 to 3,500 lbs.
I hope this helps some.

Mike
 

sailquik

Well-known member
Mike,
OK, got it!
Are you looking for the really long extended rear 170" wb or the shorter
overhang rear 170" wb.
I'd suggest the shorter rear.
I have the short rear high top 170" wb (2011 Mercedes 3500) with the factory
installed towing package and of the Sprinters I've owned this one is by far the
best for towing a trailer.
The Casita will be no issue.
Are you wanting the factory rear AC (for when you are traveling down the road)
or an auxiliary AC that would plug into shore power when you are parked?
Sprinters do not like to idle (not good for the engines and emission controls) so
running a factory rear AC might not be the best of ideas.
Better to use an RV type AC unit that can be powered by shore power or and
3,000 watt gen set.
Or, you may simply use the AC in the Casita when stopped in which case the factory
rear air may be better.
Hope this helps,
Roger
 

newmilford

New member
Roger, thanks again.
We are only interested in the shorter 170" van. That alone offers huge space for us.
The roof mounted AC would only be used when driving down the road. As you said, the Casita has it's own AC and we have a generator for the Casita if we don't have hookups.
I'll have to consider the 3500 has we haven't thought about it as yet.
Best regards, Roger.

Mike
 

sailquik

Well-known member
Mike,
For the Casita, you probably do not need the extra capacity of the 3500.
Probably get better mileage (3500's have a higher rear end ratio (4.18 vs
3.92 in the 2500's)) with the 2500 as well.
You are correct, there's a whole lot of room in the 170 wb short back,
and probably a bit more useable room in the 2500's due to smaller rear
wheel tubs in the cargo compartment.
Roger
 

newmilford

New member
Roger,
Thanks so much for your input about our soon to be Sprinter purchase.
You have been very helpful and we appreciate your interest and guidance.

Mike
 

atulin

New member
Probably get better mileage (3500's have a higher rear end ratio (4.18 vs
3.92 in the 2500's)) with the 2500 as well.
For 2011 and later the 3500 was available with the 3.92 as an option.

The 3500 handles so much better I would get it just for that.
 

ftldealer

New member
For 2011 and later the 3500 was available with the 3.92 as an option.

The 3500 handles so much better I would get it just for that.
If you're looking for the Crew version, keep in mind that they're only offered in the 2500, and the 170" only comes in the standard (not XTD) wheelbase length. 3.92 rear axle is standard on these as well (better fuel economy than the 4.18, of course). I'm attaching a pdf showing the MY2012 Crew Van specs- FYI. :smilewink:
 

Attachments

mbgtown

the "Sprinter Guy"
These are all good suggestions to get you thinking in the best direction for your use. If you would like to see all of the specs and prices for this or any new Sprinter van, go to www.sprinterguy.com and click the link at the top that says, 2012 M-B Sprinter Order Guide and you will be redirected to the page that will give you the base prices, color options then scroll down to the link that says 2012 Crew Van Standard Equipment and Options to see the 16 pages of features and options for the Crew Van.

We are still ordering 2012's probably until about June or July. Probably will start taking orders for 2013's in August for delivery around the end of November or early December. I will know more after our annual Sprinter Managers Meeting next week at the factory in Ladson South Carolina.

Let me know if you have any questions about the new Sprinter Vans. We work with Sportsmobile Texas for conversions. Check them out at www.sportsmobile.com

Dave
 

Rinaldi

TAPSEXPRESS
was wonder if anyone could help with the backup camera wiring. 2008 sprinter 2500
under driverseat, I am looking to pickup the correct reverse wire to splice the camera into.
Imy research comes up with white/ blue wire? do i have to remove the driver seat to access this wire?
any photos would be helpful
thanks
newbe
 

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