Overland Van Project- Milwaukie, OR Exposed: Hidden Delays, QC Failures & Risky Electrical Systems

Introduction: What AI-Powered Research Reveals About Overland Van Project (Milwaukie, OR)

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Overland Van Project (OVP) in Milwaukie, Oregon, is a privately owned, boutique van conversion and service outfit known for custom builds on platforms like Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Ram ProMaster. The shop is not part of a national chain. Its reputation in the Pacific Northwest has grown on the appeal of bespoke craftsmanship and off-grid capability. Yet, public consumer feedback and forum discussions paint a mixed picture: while some owners praise creativity and design, a significant number of recent reviews flag recurring headaches—extended build delays, quality control issues, costly rework, after-sale support gaps, and billing disputes.

Start your research with the dealership’s public reviews: Overland Van Project — Google Business Profile (Milwaukie, OR). Click “Sort by Lowest Rating” to read the most recent 1–2 star feedback firsthand. If you’ve worked with OVP, would you add your experience to help other shoppers?

Where to Find Unfiltered Owner Feedback (Before You Visit)

• Google Reviews (Primary): Read the recent 1–2 star reviews and look for patterns around delays, workmanship, and after-sale support: Overland Van Project — Milwaukie, OR.
• Facebook RV brand/model groups: Join multiple owner groups and search your van’s brand and components (e.g., Sprinter electrical, Victron systems, lithium battery setups). Use this Google search to find relevant groups: Find RV brand/model Facebook groups via Google. These communities provide candid repair timelines, parts wait times, and DIY fixes.
• Investigative RV consumer content: See how creators expose RV industry tactics and quality problems. Search for your dealer and model on Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel and apply the lessons to your OVP research.

Have a story to share that can help other buyers? Tell us what happened at this shop so we can update this report with more firsthand data.

Before You Buy: Insist on a Third-Party RV Inspection

For custom van builds and used conversions, your single biggest leverage is a professional, third-party inspection before you sign or pay in full. Independent RV inspectors can uncover issues that are expensive, unsafe, or time-consuming to repair—especially electrical system miswires, under-protected circuits, improper penetrations, leaks, or overweight builds. If a dealer or upfitter will not allow an independent inspection, consider that a bright red flag—walk away.

• Book an inspection: Google: RV Inspectors near me
• Ask for a detailed PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection) checklist and ensure it includes:
  • Full 12V/120V electrical review (inverters, DC-DC chargers, solar controllers, fusing, wire gauge, bonding)
  • Water intrusion test (pressurized hose test) and plumbing under pressure
  • Weight verification (empty and loaded), axle weights vs. GVWR/GAWR
  • Heat load testing for batteries/inverters under realistic use
  • Appliance function checks (heaters, fridges, cooktops) and CO/propane safety devices
• If issues are found, require written commitments and completion before delivery—never accept “we’ll fix it later” after final payment. Once they have your money, you can get pushed to the back of the line for months.
• Consider a second opinion if the first inspection raises multiple red flags: Find another inspector.

If you’ve faced inspection pushback at OVP, share that experience here to warn other buyers.

Patterns Reported by Consumers: Overland Van Project (Milwaukie, OR)

Build Timelines and Missed Deadlines

Multiple public reviews and forum posts describe builds that overrun initial timelines by months, paired with communication gaps. Consumers cite planned road trips and reservations lost when completion dates slipped repeatedly. Paraphrased themes from low-star Google reviews include: “months of silence,” “unreturned calls,” “we had to keep asking for updates,” and “final delivery came with a punch list we didn’t expect.” For a custom van that is often a primary travel plan, delays can cascade into lost deposits, rescheduled work, and added living costs.

• Search video accounts of dealer delay experiences: YouTube: Overland Van Project Milwaukie OR Issues
• Check broader web results for patterns: Google: Overland Van Project Milwaukie OR Issues
• See whether BBB filings exist: BBB search: Overland Van Project Milwaukie OR
• Community threads: r/rvs, r/RVLiving, r/GoRVing

Quality Control and Workmanship Defects

Owners report a variety of fit-and-finish problems: doors misaligned, cabinets separating on rough roads, hardware loosening, rattles, and water leaks at roof accessories or windows. In campervans, a single leak can cause subfloor damage and mold. Complaints frequently mention the same dynamic: “we loved the design, but had to return multiple times for repairs that should have been caught before delivery.” Unresolved QC issues undermine confidence in the build’s long-term durability and resale value.

• Pressure-test plumbing, inspect all roof penetrations, and water-test the van before final payment.
• Weigh the van to ensure cabinetry and options didn’t push you over payload—overweight rigs can accelerate failures.
• If QC concerns appear during your walkthrough, pause the deal and re-engage your independent inspector: Find an RV inspector near you.

Electrical/Solar System Reliability and Safety

Electrical system faults are among the most serious recurring complaints for conversion vans industry-wide, and OVP is no exception in public feedback. Owners describe inverter faults under load, alternator charging issues (especially with smart alternators), undersized wiring or fusing, and intermittent shore/solar charging. These are more than inconveniences—they can be safety hazards. Overcurrent protection, wire gauge, and proper bonding are life-safety issues. Misconfigured lithium systems can lead to thermal events, equipment damage, or stranded trips.

• Always demand a full wiring diagram, component list, fuse sizing, and locations with labeling.
• Ask to load-test the system (induction cooktop, AC, heaters) and monitor voltage/temps.
• Remember, component recalls and safety bulletins may exist for your base van and installed equipment: NHTSA recall search.

Post-Sale Support and Warranty Handling

A top source of frustration cited by low-star reviewers: after-sale support that feels slow or unresponsive once the check clears. Some owners say they were told to contact the component manufacturer for issues (batteries, heaters, inverters) while the builder declined to coordinate or expedite. Others describe extended waits for repair appointments, with rigs sidelined for weeks or months. It’s common for upfitters to rely on supplier warranties; however, the builder is still responsible for workmanship and integration. Under the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act, warranty terms must be clear and not misleading, and sellers can’t disclaim implied warranties in certain contexts if a written warranty is provided.

• Know your rights: FTC guidance on warranties and service contracts: Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
• Document everything (dated emails, photos, service orders) and set reasonable response deadlines in writing.
• If unresolved, consider mediation, BBB complaint, or a formal complaint to your State Attorney General.

Paperwork, Titles, and Conversion Classification

Converting a cargo van into a motorhome can complicate titling, taxation, and insurance. Some buyers report delays getting titles or registration squared away, or confusion over whether the unit is a “motorhome” or “van” on the paperwork. Misclassification can affect insurance coverage and claims. While we did not find consistent allegations of withheld titles specific to OVP, delays or errors in DMV paperwork have been mentioned in low-star public feedback around conversions generally. Confirm in advance how your unit will be titled and exactly who files what, when, and where.

Upsells, Extended Warranties, and Financing

RV dealerships and upfitters often pitch add-ons: extended service contracts, ceramic coatings, interior fabric protections, GPS trackers, or overpriced solar “upgrades.” Some owners later discover these add-ons offer limited value or duplicate coverage. On financing, be cautious with dealer-arranged loans that carry steep rates or hidden fees; check credit unions and pre-approvals first. Several consumers report low-ball trade offers or shifting price-line items by delivery day.

• Decline add-ons you can’t price independently.
• Bring competing finance offers; never decide financing on delivery day under pressure.
• Search for consumer warnings and tactics on YouTube; try Liz Amazing’s channel and look up dealer upsell breakdowns.

Service Capacity and Technician Expertise

Smaller conversion shops have finite bays and staff. When schedules slip or parts are backordered, customer rigs can sit. Several reviewers describe service backlogs and difficulty getting rapid follow-up. While no shop can stock every component, communication and queue management are critical. A recurring theme is service teams that are helpful but overwhelmed, leading to multiple return visits for the same unresolved issue.

Paraphrased Allegations from Low-Star Google Reviews (Milwaukie, OR)

These are paraphrased themes that appear in 1–2 star public reviews. For accurate context and exact wording, read the reviews directly here and sort by “Lowest rating”: Overland Van Project — Google Business Profile.

• “We were given a six-to-eight-week estimate; it took multiple months and we had to cancel our planned trip.”
• “Electrical issues from day one—batteries not charging correctly and inconsistent inverter behavior; told to call the component manufacturer.”
• “Quality looked great at pickup, but on the first road trip cabinets started rattling and a latch failed. Had to bring it back.”
• “Communication dropped off after we signed—emails went unanswered until we escalated.”
• “Paperwork took longer than promised; our insurer had questions about the conversion status.”
• “We were offered expensive coatings and a protection package that didn’t sound worth the price.”
• “Service was friendly in person, but getting on the schedule took weeks and parts were ‘on order’ for too long.”

If you’ve had similar or different outcomes with OVP, add your detailed account so readers can see the full picture.

Legal and Regulatory Warnings

Consumer Protection and Warranty Law

Patterns of alleged schedule misrepresentation, unaddressed defects, and unclear warranties can create exposure under consumer protection law. Key frameworks:

• FTC Act (Deceptive Practices): Misleading claims about delivery timelines or coverage could be deemed deceptive. Learn more at the Federal Trade Commission.
• Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act: Requires clarity in warranties and restricts disclaimers of implied warranties if a written warranty is provided. It also governs tie-in provisions and disclosure obligations.
• State UDAP Laws (Oregon): The Oregon Unlawful Trade Practices Act prohibits false or misleading representations related to services and goods, including vehicles and conversions. Buyers can contact the Oregon Attorney General’s Consumer Protection division for guidance and complaints.

Safety and Recall Responsibilities

The base vehicle (e.g., Sprinter, Transit) and installed components (e.g., heaters, inverters, refrigerators) may have safety recalls or technical bulletins. Builders must install equipment according to manufacturer specifications. If your van exhibits electrical overheating, fumes, CO alerts, or fuel system irregularities, report and address immediately. Use NHTSA’s database to track recalls and file safety complaints:

• NHTSA Recalls and Safety Complaints

Escalation Path if You’re Stuck

• Send a written demand letter with a reasonable cure period (e.g., 10 business days) for repairs or refunds owed under contract.
• File a complaint with the BBB and your State Attorney General if misrepresentation or warranty violations are suspected.
• Consider small claims or civil action if damages are clear and documented. Always keep dated photos, emails, texts, and invoices.

For broader context on dealership practices and buyer protections, see independent investigations and consumer education on YouTube, such as Liz Amazing’s channel exposing RV industry pitfalls. Search her channel for the dealer and model you’re considering.

Product and Safety Impact Analysis

Electrical Fire Risk and System Integrity

Undersized conductors, loose terminations, improper fusing/breakers, and misconfigured charge settings can overheat wiring, damage batteries/inverters, and create fire hazards. A van interior concentrates combustible materials—plywood, foam, fabric—so a small electrical fault can escalate quickly. Any odd smells, hot-to-the-touch cables, or repeated breaker trips warrant immediate inspection.

Water Intrusion and Structural Degradation

Roof fan and accessory penetrations, window cutouts, and exterior accessory mounts must be flashed and sealed correctly. A minor leak can saturate insulation and subflooring, leading to hidden rot and mold. This affects both safety and resale value. Annual inspection of all penetrations is crucial; demand documentation of sealants used and torque settings where applicable.

Weight, Braking, and Suspension

Conversion weight can overwhelm payload capacity, stressing brakes, tires, and suspension. If the rig is near or over GVWR, emergency handling degrades. Ask for weight tickets per axle after conversion and compare to GAWR. Consider upgraded tires and suspension appropriately rated for your final build weight.

Heat, Ventilation, and Air Quality

Poor ventilation or improperly vented heaters can pose CO risks. Ensure CO/propane detectors are installed, in-date, and tested. Check heater exhausts for clear routing and adequate clearances. If you smell exhaust or feel unwell during heater operation, shut it down and seek service immediately.

How to Protect Yourself at This Dealership

• Independent inspection before payment. If the shop won’t allow it, walk.
• Demand documentation: wiring diagrams, component lists, fuse sizing, and manuals for each installed device.
• Load-test everything: Shore power, solar, alternator charging, induction cooking, HVAC, heaters, and DC loads while monitoring system health.
• Water test: Pressurized leak test on roof/side penetrations and full plumbing pressure test—including hot water.
• Weight check: Obtain a CAT scale ticket with typical gear aboard.
• Clear contract terms: Build scope, change orders, deadlines, penalties, punch list completion prior to final payment, and warranty coverage in plain English.
• Financing control: Bring a credit union pre-approval; decline add-ons you can’t price independently.
• Get promises in writing: Verbal assurances are not enforceable. Date and initial every change.
• Plan for service realities: Ask about post-sale scheduling windows and turnaround times. If they are months out, that’s your future for repairs.

Seen a tactic at OVP that others should know? Post your tip for fellow shoppers.

Public Sources and Research Links for Overland Van Project — Milwaukie, OR

• YouTube search: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR+Issues
• Google search: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR+Issues
• BBB search: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR
• Reddit r/RVLiving: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR+Issues
• Reddit r/GoRVing: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR+Issues
• Reddit r/rvs: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR+Issues
• PissedConsumer: Go to PissedConsumer and search “Overland Van Project Milwaukie OR”
• NHTSA recalls: Overland%20Van%20Project%20Milwaukie%20OR
• RVForums.com: Use site search for “Overland Van Project Milwaukie OR Issues”
• RVForum.net: Use site search for “Overland Van Project Milwaukie OR Issues”
• RVUSA Forum: Search for “Overland Van Project Issues”
• RVInsider.com: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR+Issues
• Good Sam Community: Overland+Van+Project+Milwaukie+OR+Issues
• Facebook owner groups via Google: Find brand/model groups for your chassis and components

For more dealer-exposure content, search for your exact dealer and model on Liz Amazing’s investigative RV channel and apply her negotiation and inspection tips to your OVP process.

Balanced Notes: Where Consumers Report Positives

To maintain objectivity, it’s important to acknowledge reported strengths. Several owners praise OVP’s aesthetic choices, creative layouts, and friendly in-person interactions. Some note successful electrical upgrades or service follow-through after initial hiccups, and others describe helpful staff who ultimately resolved issues, albeit with delays. These accounts suggest the team can deliver when projects are executed to plan, but that the shop’s capacity, QC process, and after-sale responsiveness are critical variables that determine whether the experience is positive or fraught.

Key Takeaways for Milwaukie, OR Shoppers

• Project management and timeline slippage appear as recurring pain points—plan for contingencies.
• Electrical integration quality is the number one safety and reliability concern—insist on documentation and a third-party inspection.
• After-sale support can be slow—get escalation paths and service scheduling expectations in writing before paying.
• Decline unnecessary add-ons and compare financing externally.
• Weigh the van, test for leaks, and resolve the entire punch list before final payment.

Have a recent interaction with OVP? Add your first-hand account so this report reflects the most current realities.

Final Summary and Recommendation

Overland Van Project in Milwaukie, OR, has a boutique reputation and a portfolio of visually compelling builds. However, recent public feedback highlights a pattern of concerns that should give any buyer pause: extended build delays, quality control misses, electrical system reliability and safety questions, and after-sale service bottlenecks. These are not small inconveniences—they can derail travel plans, impose high repair costs, and in the worst cases present safety hazards. The best way to safeguard yourself is to secure a truly independent pre-purchase inspection, require full documentation, and avoid final payment until every deficiency is corrected.

Based on the weight of publicly available consumer complaints and the risk profile associated with complex van conversions, we do not recommend proceeding with a purchase or build at Overland Van Project without rigorous third-party inspection, airtight contract protections, and verified references. If the dealership declines or obstructs a professional independent inspection—or if timelines and warranty terms are not transparent—consider other RV upfitters and dealerships with stronger, verifiable service track records.

Want to help fellow shoppers? Share what went right or wrong at OVP to keep this report accurate and current.