I could weep for joy seeing your diagram and having you walk us through it. I needed this understanding so badly being a novice with anything electrical. On other channels, I could not follow clearly feeling I was missing a piece of the puzzle. Here it is laid out clearly and explained so well. You are a great teacher and have contributed immensely to knowledge in the RV world. This world is deliberately mystified by dealers so that we are dependent on their pricey services, and cannot critically analyze their poor quality built-in systems, especially in the US. I'm very grateful for your time and expertise. If you are ever visiting California, you have a place to stay while you see the San Francisco area. No hotel needed. My house is open to you and your wife. I have an RV you can stay in as well while I pick your brain some more :-)
What a lovely comment. Thank you for taking the time to give such nice feedback. It really makes it so worth while to hear how these videos have helped you. You obviously have an RV are you planning to remodel that or planning a separate van build? Thank you for your kind offer too. 👍🏼😀
There are now hundreds of "Fit-out" blogs for these conversions, especially for the Sprinters. Yours Greg are by far, the most well presented and thorough. Your vast knowledge and ability, and systematic approach is a credit to you. The amount of time and detail you have spent on these presentations is amazing. Hundreds around the world will benefit from this grand effort. Have you ever considered producing pre-assembled modules for this large market? You would sell hundreds of the distribution boards and plumbing modules could be designed as well. If you do, or would consider making and selling me a one of the dual distribution boards … You have an order?Many thanks again!
Not only am I now an amateur electrician, but level 1 DIY van conversion builder. Greg mate, your videos are top notch and you're a top man for sharing. Cheers.
Hello David, I do this kind of wiring for a living (PLC I/O panels, motor controllers ect.)and I must say your schematics, build and explanations are top notch! Cheers!
Hello David, that's really nice of you to say so, many thanks. I'm mechanical engineer but have dealt with motor control panels all my life so I know enough to get by but I'm always learning every day. The DC side and solar is all new to me so had to do tons of research.
tptwk - Thanks for your professional stamp of approval. Very good to know that this design meets all safety requirements and has the seal of approval of another professional. I learn almost as much from the comments as the video. Every discussion sheds light and contributes to the knowledgebase.
Hi Greg. Where did you get the distribution board and components from this video? It’s such I good idea I want to replicate in a build we are starting now. Thanks Mark M
👍👍👍 Clever bugger is there nothing you can't do 😉👏👏 I'm not an electrician but my best mate is I'm going to show him this when it comes to the wiring of our van thanks again Greg 😉👍
That panel is a thing of beauty. Excellent planning and execution Greg, just as I anticipated. Certainly an excellent example of how to wire your camper safely and correctly and to a high standard.
+Larn Davies, thank you very much. I wanted to make sure there wasn't any exposed mains cabling and this seemed the best way to do that. I shall be getting the install tested and certified by a qualified electrician. Appreciate your support. Cheers
Hi Greg could you list where you bought the components to make your distribution panel Please. Why did you not use circuit breakers for the 12 volt supply too?
This is fantastic. I find electickery intimidating - a neighbor died by electrocution when I was a child and it left a deep impression on me. Your video has really inspired me to give it a go. Thank you!
Please take a look at the electric videos in my essential van building playlist. They will be very helpful. th-cam.com/play/PLLhAyWhGGbi4nOabmpkLMGvfLGox2ljp_.html
Iv been planning my build for about a year and will be getting my sprinter/transit in January. This is by far and away the very best explanation video on installing electrical. Thank you so much for making it understandable 😘😘😘😘😘😘
Hi Claire, really pleased that you found it to be useful. I was worried the panel wiring would scare people off. Best of luck with your future build and I would be interested to see your progress when you get going. Thank you
This is the absolute BEST explanation of the wiring set-up,, considerations to keep in mind and simply how all of it works together in a conversion. I watch a lot of conversion vids and I cannot recall another person breaking it down like you did. I finally know what an inverter is for! LOL Most TH-camrs showing their conversions never go into any detail, just about showing off the final conversion. You're a patient and very good instructor. Thank you!
Greg Virgoe Hi Greg, I was wondering how did you learn how to do all of this if you are not an electrician yourself? This was a great video by the way, a lot went over my head though XD
I have been doing my research for the past 6 weeks, and I have decided on the van that I will be buying. I was worried about how I would do the electrics, for it looks so complicated. After watching this, I feel like a pro, lol ! and looking forward to getting it done. This is the BEST instruction that I have ever come across. Greg you are a star mate, and looking forward to meeting up on the road. Thanks for your videos.
Just wanted to say thanks for your videos. I’m just about to start my first van. VW crafter and the set up I wanted is pretty much the same as yours. You’ve answered most of my questions I had about certain things. I’m a plumber and have motor vehicle experience so I’m not green. Anyway thanks. Great videos
Ive watched alot of videos and yours are some of the best! excellent pace when explaining, good lighting, stable camera work. Not talking down to people. 5/5 Keep doing what you are doing and youll do really well on youtube! Looking forward to seeing the completed job!
Only just discovered this series of videos. Very, very impressed. Thorough, comprehensive & most importantly, easy to follow information. By far and away the best van conversion videos I have found. Truly excellent.
I did not build two separate electric systems, Instead in my van build i have the same as your off grid electrical system. But i have a C-tec 30A charger with automatic supply function, which is connected to my leisure batteries and charge them when connected to mains hookup supply. My fridge is 12V, so i rarely have the need to use a 240V inverter, except for rare cases when i haven´t found 5V USB or 12V connections to my electrical needs (computer, camera, phones, IPADs, drone, etc. i have solved with 5V or 12V). That way, everything still runs on the batteries no matter what, but when on mains i charge the batteries at a much faster rate than i drain them. I eliminate the need of double sockets, a distribution board between the two systems and in my case also can do all the electrics myself since it is low voltage. This is a method that have been used in Sweden at least for a long time, and after two years of living in the van i have had no problems.
Hi Greg, I don’t even drive, at the moment! But your series of self build vids has opened up the possibility of travelling the world in a home built mobile home! Thank you very much!
Hey Greg, Thanks for your knowledge! I'm a Brit, living in California and converting a 2020 Sprinter for a Moto-X hauler and your experiences have been really helpful. Please keep them up, much appreciated, Mate!
I am familiar with the electrics, because this is basically how it works on my boat (old wooden converted fishing troller), where it was done by a certified marine electrician because I didn't trust myself with it. But I sure wish I had had this explanation when I tried to wrap my head around how the electrics worked. Nice, clean build, and very clearly explained. All the fledgling vanlifers out there could definitely make good use of it. I'm subscribing even though I probably will never convert a van (very happy with my boat), but it'll be instructive and interesting to follow along, I think.
Both because we have the room to put up solar panels, but primarily wind. We live on the coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, where wind is a lot more reliable year around than solar.
I’m guessing you naturally get a difference in air pressure from sea to land so there’s always wind at the coast. Do you have a charge controller that can take a dual supply?
Right, it's almost always windy; we might get a few days in deep summer where everything seems to be dead, but it's rare. Yes, we have a charge controller that can handle multiple inputs.
Great video. Read the comments and didn't see this come up. If I missed the comment sorry. You set up the outlets to switch between mains and inverter, so you only install 1 set of outlets. But by doing that and based on you diagram, when you switch to your inverter the refrigerator and heater will also be on the inverter unless you turn off there breaker.
Hello Don, you are absolutely correct. I have a 2kw inverter so it could power these devices easily. Whether I chose to use them off battery full time is another thing. But like you rightly say you can simply trip their breakers to disable them when running on inverter. Great question. Thanks
@@GregVirgoe Hi Greg. I've watched this video many times over, and it's brilliant. Totally got my head around how it's all working, very clever indeed and beautifully executed. I was also thinking the same thing as Don (hence reading through every comment in case it was discussed), in that when switched to Inverter, the Fridge and Truma would be getting a 230v supply and hence switch over to that mode. I'm going to be using a CRX50 and Combi 4E based on your recommendations. Isn't it better to leave them on 12V and LPG respectively if there is no hook up available?
Great video, finally someone who goes into detail but has clairity in their communication. You must be an Engineer! So glad i've subcribed. All the best with the conversion. 😎
Thank you, yes, I've been a mechanical services engineer for 30years, actually started in a design office, from leaving school, drawing control panel wiring diagrams 😃 Really appreciate your feedback.
Hi nice channel by the way so for 2 .4 KW from the inverter you will need 2400/12=200 Amp fuse required, If you do put the fuse in the box like that it will only protect the foot long piece of wire going to the next set of fuses which seems expensive to me. Its best to fuse as close to the source as possible like your batterys for instance so it protects the whole cable run, as it is if you had a fault anywhere between your incoming side of your fuse and the battery then that would be a catastrophe in the making. Same goes with the inverter but I would expect an inverter to have a fuse on the output side. I do apologise if I sound a bit strong but its best to get it out in the open. your change-over switch looks ok tho as it swops both live and neutral so no probs there.
Hello, yes well spotted. I made a mistake with the sizing of the inverter breaker and as you have suggested will remove this from the panel and site near the batteries. I will do an edit to this video and the schematic to correct it. Thanks for your help.
A rule-of-thumb method of calculating the current draw of an inverter is this: 12 volt inverters require approximately one (1) amp of DC input for each 10 watts of AC output. Using this method the ohm's law calculation suggested by Master of the Universe yields a result that is still less than would be required to properly fuse the input and calculate battery discharge rates. In this example: 2400/10 =240 amps--a 20% difference. I think MotU raising this issue and highlighting the high current draw was excellent. He identified several very important points. Placing the inverter in close proximity to the batteries and insuring that the cable guage is a sufficient to handle the current should also be layout considerations. I am no expert, so take this with a grain of salt. I just did some cursory research because I was shocked (no pun intended) at the very high potential current draw. As Greg has said numerous times--if you are not comfortable with or have a good understanding of the electrics--get expert help.
We're in the process of researching and preparing our van conversion. Just had to tell you your videos are the best we've found. You're an excellent teacher. Thank you.
Just found your mini series Greg. Absolutely awesome seeing as I managed to buy a sprinter yesterday and get it delivered so I can finally start my build. Great content and really informative. 🤙
Thank you so much for your excellent presentation of a control panel that you have so superbly designed. This is truly an invaluable video for learners at all level. Everyone should aspire to the high standard you have shown. I would say with confidence, you are a true professional and a great teacher. Priceless sharing indeed. Thank you.
OMG it's a thing of beauty! I love your perfection. So clear, simple & precise. Wish I could buy one from you. Because here in Australia 12v & 240v are done separately by x2 different technicians. I am expecting quite a battle to get any sense out of anything they do. In Australia all wiring must be done by "qualified tradesmen". I'll spend many a night dreaming about your control panel.
As stated by a lot of viewers, this is probably the best explained electrical video I have EVER watched on TH-cam. I do have some electrical knowledge but would have no idea as to where to even start designing my electrics. Now, thanks to you, I have a great starting point. I have some questions though, sorry :o) 1 - My Sprinter is likely to be an ex-ambulance (if they are long wheelbase) or just a standard hightop LWB. I have no plans to use anything at 240v. I will likely only use 12v devices for fridge, pumps and chargers (I can get a 12v charger for my laptop). I, even at home, do not own a TV. Is it likely that I can have enough roof mounted solar panels on a LWB to survive 2-3 days using similar usage times as you without the need for mains charging? I plan to have 4 batteries with no need for an inverter or 240v circuits. 2 - Would you be able to organise your video library into groups e.g. van build, other builds etc. and number them so I can follow your progress along? 3 - How much do you expect your build to cost and time it will take (Working on weekends only)? Please exclude the cost of the van as they vary wildly. Thanks for the series. I am eagerly looking forward to watching your progress. I will probably start mine around April as I don't have a garage or private driveway.
Hello Nomadd, thanks for such great feedback. If you are only using 12v appliances then just use a 12v blade fuse holder off your leisure battery as per the 12v page of my schematic. Don't forget a split charge relay when you're driving along and possibly mains charger when on hook up. All my videos are sorted into playlists, go to the header of my main page for navigation. You can play a complete playlist from start to finish with on click. My build is not a budget build at all and it is likely to cost between 7-8k that is on top of the cost of the van. But when you see the finish you will understand why it is so much. Want a professional finish or as best as possible. Planning to have it all finished before start of summer next year. Thanks for your support and best wishes with your own build.
This is excellent video but can I ask one quetsion and make one observation. Are you adding a battery charger to charge the batteries when on hook up and also from engine when engine running? The observation relates to the green light, that would drive me barmy at night, big attraction for me is how dark a van can be at night. Thanks the videos are great and I was able to follow the logic.
Hello David, yes and yes to your initial questions. The panel is to be housed in the garage at the rear of the van, so will not be in view from living area and no lights at night. Good point though, thank you
Hi Greg , I am enjoying looking at your conversion and am impressed with your high quality planning and fabrication skills. Also your still open to advice and opinions of others. Well done.
There are always other ways to do things and welcome advice from anyone, this is the first time we have done a van so it can be very helpful to hear what others have done before us. Glad you like the channel, thanks for watching
This is a work of art. For the change over switch, were you able to find a switch that does two in and one out? I've only been able to find something that changes between a series of ins and outs. Would you be able to share a schematic of how you wired the change over switch?
Loving the build series, I’m going to doing a van build exactly like this as I want to be able to take my bikes with me on my trips 👍🏻😃 Your panel wiring is a work of art mate 👍🏻
@@GregVirgoe my plan is to take a street triple and my dr 350. This will give me the option of road or green lanes. I’m just a bit worried about the weight of two bikes I’ll most likely have to fit air bags like you have
Hi Greg, great video as always! I'm curious to know what dis box that is? I've been looking to do something similar in my van but I can't find a box that has enough room around the 230v buzz bar to fit the 12v cabling and switches etc
great vid I keep going over each of your vids I think I have worn out the pause button, wondering which inverter you went with, also were did you get your 12v not the blade one but the one on the front of you distribution box please, LOOKS LIKE YOUR HAVING A GREAT TIME ON YOUR TRAVELS SEE SOON
It was a Chinese inverter off Ebay, it was 2kw and about £200 but not sure it’s giving me the best power out. Had a few issues so won’t recommend it. The 12v trips are single pole DC thermal magnetic circuit breakers. These are marine ones but you can get DC circuit breakers that look just the same as normal household trips and more readily available. Just search for DC circuit breakers and they come in a range of different ratings for what you need. Mine was 60Amps 👍🏼
Great video Greg. I am a complete novice on van builds so lots of this was just waaaaay to complex. Despite that, I did learn some good basics. You did an amazing job on this conversation. The level of detail is immense.
Greg great video again. Not sure how i missed this video but it explains this morning's question. Do you have any material on where you sourced the parts to build it? And they're names? Thanks, Michael
Hi Greg! Absolutely love your videos, been watching 3 hours straight :). 2 questions: I noticed you use the same cable for all your 12V DC wiring. If I look at my wiring then I have different cable thickness for my waterpump, lights, fridge, etc... I got these measurements from their respective manuals. The fridge even has a 10mm2 cable requirement as the distance to the batteries is quite far and this to ensure to have as minimum voltage loss. I would love to read your opinion on this :)? 2nd: I noticed in your calculation for your watt hours that you list the fridge as only 6 hours on per day. Aren't you using the fridge constantly? Or is this the actual time it's consuming power? Thanks again for your incredible videos!
Hello Greg. Great videos. Thank you. I'm an electrician of 30+ years. Just a couple of things the RCD should be 30mA tripping current for shock protection. With a 70 amp input current to the inverter could you mention your cable sizes? Also I hope you will show this on a completed electrical installation video? You have inspired me to move on my own camper build. Thanks again. David
Great no nonsense videos thanks Greg. Not to clever to accept useful updates from others either :) Seems that everyone will have their own take on what's best for them but your videos are so well put together that anyone can make a start from them. Thanks a million. Rich
I have a question about earthing. As home wiring is earthed for safety and also the sockets that you will be using with the usb connector. How do you wire both 12v and mains into one sockek?
Hello PreOAP, I'm not wiring 12v to the household sockets. I'll only be wiring 230v power to the sockets. This will come from either the mains hook up or from the inverter. The sockets will be earthed back to the panel and the rear metal plate of the panel is the earthing point for all items in the panel. Hope that helps
Greg Greg Greg im trying to keep up. Just need to keep watching. This one is a little bit simpler. Its late here where I am my eyes and brain has had enough for today. I will pick class back up tomorrow. Be safe be bless 🙏
paul durrant I designed it myself and we built the control box from parts sourced from RS Components. The box is a weatherproof ABS electrical control panel box.
@@GregVirgoe thanks for this. Just embarking on the electrics for my partners van build. What size of IP66 box did you use please? checked your links to boxes and they just bring up a list of all different boxes. Again thank you! Rick
Brilliant clear, simple explanation of what (to me at least) is an incredibly complicated and daunting process. Look forward to seeing the next instalment :)
So well thought out. It all makes sense when it’s all complete like this but building up that panel and fuses and switches would be beyond me. I wouldn’t know where to even buy the parts
Love what you did with the distribution box. I'm just finalising my re-build (built my van a few years ago) and your video gave me loads of ideas :) Parts now ordered, thanks.
Thanks Greg. Yes I will, I did the last one (myselfbuildcamper.co.uk). The plans for the new are here if you're interested: th-cam.com/video/DvtA4wp6K4Y/w-d-xo.html Looking forward to your next video. Thanks again, David
Very smart system, I designed, build, install and Commission control panels for factories and hotels for a living so can definitely appreciate good workmanship. I would mention however that having MCBs greater than 16a pointless as the largest supply you can draw would be limited to the hookup supply current (16a) so any breaker greater than this would be ineffective. I would also recommend installing a 16a double pole RCBO rather than the RCD as then if you where to overload the supply or have an internal fault such as a short circuit it would trip in the van rather than the hookup supply protective device.
Thank you for a very impressive, professional, well thought out, and simple to understand panel build. I will certainly be using your demonstration as a model for my own projects.
These are really good, informative videos, love the amount of detail you cover and its refreshing to see a someone working up a van professionally who actually knows what they're doing too! Keep up the great work!
Excellent wiring which I am going to use elements of, particularly the neatness and layout using DIN rails. The problem is, which you have probably already picked up, is your 2000W inverter is going to be running to power the tiny LED indicating it is on. Better to have an inverter with a remote so you can switch it on and off when you need it. The USB charging sockets on the 240V sockets will do the same.
Hello Stephen, is this a problem just because of the small constant power use or is there another reason that I have overlooked? Thank you for your help.
Thanks Greg. Watched the video. You clearly know what you’re talking about. However.... imagine if you can that I don’t have a scooby doo. The system looks exactly what I’m looking for. I don’t even know where the existing wiring is in my van as it’s all hidden. All I know is it’s a sergeant system. I will have to get the conversion company to put my inverter in. Just worries me that they said this could not be done. You can do it so obviously it can be done. I have asked the conversion company for a wiring diagram. If they produce it I will let you know. You may be able to give me some more advice in the future. Very happy to have found you on TH-cam and happy to be a subscriber. 👍🏼
ian sharp you just need to put the mains hook up on one side of the changeover switch, your inverter supply on the other side of the changeover switch and the output from the switch to your Sargent panel where the mains would normally be connected. You can put the changeover switch in a small plastic box. You don’t need a huge panel like mine just keep it simple. What model Sargent panel do you have? I will dig out the wiring schematics 👍🏼
ian sharp on your Sargent power unit there will be a set of input terminals for the mains hook up. Disconnect the mains, install switch as above description and wire back to these terminals from the output of the changeover switch. 😀
That’s great. Thanks Greg. I will have a look now. Stand by. I really appreciate the time you’ve taken to help someone who doesn’t have a clue. Very very helpful. Thank you. It’s an EC155 I can send you a picture if you like. You’re a top man. 👍🏼
ian sharp ok so I have the wiring diagrams for that panel. sargentltd.co.uk/shop/product/132/tech-spec/40 I can see the 230v input terminals on top of page 4 It appears there are a number of 230v outlets including a heater and boiler. I would recommend not using those via your inverter as your battery will not last long at all. So as long as you size your inverter large enough for your total loads in Watts and remember not to use the heater and boiler of the inverter it will work just fine. Hope that helps. Just ask if you need anything clarifying 👍🏼😊
ian sharp this is the changeover switch you need to switch from inverter to mains rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F401993210348
You used in one video a 1 pin wire connectors in a Wago connector. I would like to know where to purchase these connectors can't find. You just pushed smal stranded wire in connectors and made wire easy to slide into Wago with ease.
Di think you are referring to “cable Ferules” they are like a shoelace crimp to bring all the lose strands together. Wago can be purchased from screwfix or tool station 😊
Greg, reading through your many answers regarding the above control box it might be an idea to create a 'shopping list' with links and specs (some of your current links are 'dead')......as you have had to answer the same question many times over! Incidentally if you could post the total build cost for the box then it would be a good comparison to see if its worth buying a similar 'certified' one off the the shelf, or go to the extent of a self build one? I know its a load of work for you but might help in answering the same questions over and over.Great work btw!
Hey Greg, First off I will say thank you so much! Your videos are so informative and well made! So nice to have people like you that put so much love and time into helping are a true inspiration! I am just about to start a van build and am trying to source out all the materials and parts I will need and pricing. If you have the time I would love to get a list of all the parts and components used in this control panel? And maybe a link for the distribution box? I have seen that a few other people before me have asked but I still haven’t seen you respond to any of them (maybe I missed out on one comment). Any ways thank you so much for every thing you are doing mate!
Thanks for the nice comment. To be honest there is a much simpler solution and I wouldn’t build another panel. You can buy a changeover switch in a plastic box and do the mains switching with that. The rest is best done as per my off grid camper wiring video.
Due to a need for wheelchair accessibility we have an Iveco 50C15 former minibus (Iris Bus). Living area for conversion is 4.5x1.8. It will have a garage with bed over for a large, off-road, mobility scooter. With a 5 ton vehicle we are not too concerned about weight of materials, in fact I need a bit on the back end to bring the suspension down to level! Looking forward to the next video's. Many thanks!
Hi Tom, sounds like you have got a great base vehicle to start with. Have you got head liner vents and lights all existing? I’ve spent a lot of time trying to finalise my design and decide what appliances to purchase and where they are going to go so I can get a concrete plan to work off. My day job has been taking its toll. I’ve got next week off so planning to spend more time on it. Expect more vids very soon. Keep me posted with your progress be interested to hear how you get on. Good luck.
Hi Greg Bus has good headliner with almost perfect lighting for us. There is decent roof top vent with cowling plus a large opening skylight. It has a fully fitted and piped Eberspacher D5 heater. Obviously we need to strip out the floor, walls and roof to fully insulate but hopefully the panels will the replace. I'm expecting to have to replace the floor. Our plans are to have insulation and boarding done over the winter. We don't need to rush, but would like to have it in use by next spring. Finalising plans and layouts is a nightmare, but you sound like a logical bloke and I'm sure you have (like me) schematics and lists for everything!
Tom Stratton, sounds like a good starting point. My plans are coming together fast, just a few pieces of the jigsaw to find. We too need to be up and running for end of May next year. Big plans!
Wow, impressive! Wish I could afford to fly you to Seattle, WA USA, when I am ready to have the electrical put in my van. Very good job and good explanation. Definately something I will not undertake by myself.
I would always recommend using a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. I will be getting my system professionally tested and certified once it's complete. Thank you for the compliments.
I'm not sure this van will be amazing, but it will works as a master piece! Looking forward to build my own van! Continue always doing good stuff in the internet qnd you're gonna be bigg!
I know this video is quite old but just looking at the series now. I would love to know what size inverter was used as its supplying all sockets including fridge, heaters etc, that would have to be some size inverter to run all that lot. Your level of workmanship though is second to none and admired by many van camper builders
very nice panel david ,i build and work on panels daily -and the only thing i would change is to use the changeover switch to operate 2 contactors- as the smaller switches are prone to failing when carrying inductive loads-bound to fail at the worst possible time too lol
Excellent design on your panel Greg. However, I would always have an isolator in front of both the incoming mains. Anyone opening the panel needs to know it's completely isolated when it's opened. Guys like us know to be careful when putting our hands in to a panel. I would reckon a four pole switch or breaker would do the job with a warning on the live junction covers. It could be an external setup or a switch mounted on the door with a mechanical interlock that prevents the door from being opened when the switch is closed (on position). The two mains lights would give most people an indication that the panel has live mains going in also. Another option would be to put a label on the panel warning users to disconnect the shore power hook-up and the inverter power hook-up. Just one more thought. The system could be easily automated with a four pole contactor, that way you can never forget to change over the selector switch to shore power and preserve battery power.
As you can see John, this is just an adapted plastic box. It’s not a proper panel with hinged door as that would have been easier to add a door interlocked isolator. I will be having external isolators on solar feed and battery feed and can easily unplug the shore lead. A simple notice on the panel for a.n.other should cover those not in the know. Thanks for the feedback 👍🏼
Hello Greg. I did appreciate that it was a plastic enclosure which would be tricky to mount a interlocked switch to. Coming from an industrial electrical background I probably over complicate things at times. Unfortunately it was drummed into me as an apprentice and it's not easy not noticing these things. Seriously though fantastic videos. I'm presently working on my Peugeot Boxer and have been getting a lot of good ideas from you. Cheers
It's a L3 H2 bought brand new in July. At the moment I'm fitting it out very modular with cheap plastic drawers and boxes to see how my layout works for me. Initially I was going for the full build out all done in quality components and materials. Now I've changed to this try it and see method. I'll put in my solar and services fairly permanently as they don't take much to regig. Because the van is new I'm reluctant to cut large holes in the roof and sides so I'm going fully stealth and I'll put in a ducted ventilation system running in tandem with the van's existing ventilation setup. There are hidden grills in the rear bumper to ease the seal for door closing purposes, so I'm pretty confident I can patch a ventilation system into these grills and flaps. With my electrical background I'm going 100% electricity for cooking and heating. I'll install a 24 volt battery system with a 4KW inverter. I've also considered going 48 volt, problem there is components start to become expensive. I'm working on a heat exchanger for the exhaust to heat my water with a solar and electrical backup for it.I'll change the front seats to two swivelling Captain's seats and incorporate this driving cap into my living area and dinning area. This way I have maximum floor space to have an open plan walk through to the back doors. Hey I'm starting to ramble now. I've been recording it so I might put it up for all to see and comment on.Anyway. Cheers for now
Thank you, You have helped me out heaps love your vids, its an absolute pleasure watching a master craftsman at work. I have just started a Mitsubishi Rosa bus conversion and you have answered a lot of questions in your videos. Go well Cheers Doug
WOW, I had to Google that, it is HUGE for a van conversion, mansion on wheels :D You won't be stuck for space in there, I'd be interested to see your plans and updates.
Top video as always , But I have installed the 12v electrics after the insulation so it's easier to get at should the need arise, there is plenty of room in the 25mm cavity between the batten and the boards to run the wiring tidily .
Hi Greg Just picked up on your videos from watching you with gadget John in Spain I have an Adria motorhome myself but I just love the build videos you have done although I have a motorhome they really help in understanding the workings of the electrics and appliances , and the way you explain things is very easy to take in , love your videos and now a very avid subscriber thanks again Jim
About the best van conversion video, I have seen up to now please don't stop making these videos. First Class, brilliant. Are you having a split charge circuit to charge the batteries while on the move? and are you installing a battery charger for charging your batteries when plugged into an electric hook up? Are you installing a 3 way fridge 240v, 12v, gas
Hello Neil, thank you for great feedback 👍🏼 1. Yes have got a split charge relay kit to fit. 2. Yes, trying to find a suitable mains charger for the leisure batteries. 3. No, just a 2way, mains and 12v but not gas as I don’t want to cut huge vents in the side of the van. Thanks for watching.
Hi. I was really impressed with your design and implementation; clearly a lot of thought and experience has gone into this. I do have a slight safety concern though - not a problem for you but more for people following. I notice that your AC live wires inside your control box appear black - which is fine for a house build in which you tend to only find AC circuits; but where you've got a mix of AC and DC in a box I'd hope that the AC live would be brown as black would normally be used for the DC negative/ground. Using the same colour for a DC ground as an AC hot wire leaves a risk for less experienced people who might mess it up. It could be a camera thing (brown can look like black if in shadow) but if people are following your design from your video they might get confused. Might I suggest/recommend an annotation to help people get this right (or at least pick different colours for their AC and DC components).
Yes, you are correct the current wiring colours for AC are brown for the live. What I will do is wrap a small piece of brown insulating tape on each cable to mark it as live. There will be a detailed wiring diagram within the panel. Well spotted.
Hi Greg, Myself and my husband are absolutely blown away by the quality of your workmanship, it’s an absolute please to watch! Thank you for being so generous with the detail on every part of your seriously impressive van conversion! You don’t know how much you’ve help us and so many others! May I ask (if you ever have time?) for a parts brake down of your electrical control panel as we’d like one exactly like yours! Cheers Karen
Karen Pearson, thank you for the lovely message. Most of the internal parts are sourced from RS Components. I’m not sure I would build another one. I would try and do away with as much of the 230volt stuff. Lose a lot of the sockets and try and go more 12v on everything. We have only switched over to hook up twice in two years because we are 100% solar and off grid all the time and just not used half the sockets I fitted. You love and learn I guess. My latest wiring video is more in line with how I would go now.
Hi Greg, we've built the electrics box and pick up our van hopefully on Saturday. Can you attach photos on here? I'm a very proud wife as he did it almost one handed (he cut off some fingers a month ago in an accident!) P.s he is an electrical engineer. Thanks for all your help!
Karen Pearson oh dear I cannot imagine doing that. Well done for getting that done under the circumstances. You can pm Me on social media or there is an email link on the about page here.
Amazing piece of art that Picasso would be proud of , have to say sadly it’s gone right over my head 🤦♂️🤣. But definitely something I wish to look into further and may quiz you , my one big question is how do you charge your leisure battery’s from say a mains supply I’m guessing solar but no mention of mains charging or vehicle charging ??
I have a 30A mains battery charger connected to me hook up socket for emergency use if we don’t have enough solar. See this video How to Wire your Camper Van to be Off-Grid th-cam.com/video/rVkDPzrA-zw/w-d-xo.html To charge while driving you would need a DC to DC charger wired between both sets of batteries.
Resently i came across your channel and your campervan build had my intrest. Of course i subscribbed and had to catch up on your build. This panel is a work of art and insperation for me to build one for my workvan. And maby a second panel for a future camper van build. Thanks for the detailed explanation. Greetz Jasper from the Netherlands.
You’re videos are always so easy to understand, and I’m sure this one is too, but my brain just melted when I saw that thing. Is there anything like this that is manufactured? This is just completely beyond me. Sorry to be asking over 2 years late.
thankyou so much for making these videos :) very helpful me and my girlfriend are researching at the moment and just getting a head up before we start building :)
My Sprinter is 2017 euro 6 with smart alternator and I am going with Votronik german DC- DC charger from the starter battery while driving and AC-DC charger in garage, winter time
Absolutely awesome video mate... well explained, well planned and well filmed too... liked and subscribed... as I will also be looking to buy another Merc sprinter for my van conversion in April 2018. Keep up the great work mate, cant wait to see the next one.
Hi Greg, Can you or possibly any of you subscriber's reading this, suggest any good learning material to help me understand all this better. I'm beginning to seriously consider converting a van for permanent living and can see that this is something that I am going to have to understand much more about! Brilliant videos thanks Paul
Hello Paul, along with my video series I can also recommend a very good campervan build book which I have that gives step by step instructions on all aspects. rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?icep_id=114&ipn=icep&toolid=20004&campid=5338027957&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fsch%2FBooks-Comics-Magazines%2F267%2Fi.html%3F_fcid%3D3%26_sop%3D12%26_stpos%3DCM3%2B8UT%26_nkw%3Dself%2Bbuild%2Bcampervan%2Bconversions%26rt%3Dnc%26_dmd%3D2
Greg Virgoe Hi Greg Thanks for the prompt reply. Brilliant, that's ordered and on its way and along with your awesome video series hopefully will keep me out of trouble in the #vanlife future! keep up the good work Greg. Really enjoying this series!
I could weep for joy seeing your diagram and having you walk us through it. I needed this understanding so badly being a novice with anything electrical. On other channels, I could not follow clearly feeling I was missing a piece of the puzzle. Here it is laid out clearly and explained so well. You are a great teacher and have contributed immensely to knowledge in the RV world. This world is deliberately mystified by dealers so that we are dependent on their pricey services, and cannot critically analyze their poor quality built-in systems, especially in the US. I'm very grateful for your time and expertise. If you are ever visiting California, you have a place to stay while you see the San Francisco area. No hotel needed. My house is open to you and your wife. I have an RV you can stay in as well while I pick your brain some more :-)
What a lovely comment. Thank you for taking the time to give such nice feedback. It really makes it so worth while to hear how these videos have helped you.
You obviously have an RV are you planning to remodel that or planning a separate van build?
Thank you for your kind offer too. 👍🏼😀
Your industrial background sure shows on this panel. Very nicely done.
One of the first job I had was drawing mechanical control panel wiring diagrams 😊
There are now hundreds of "Fit-out" blogs for these conversions, especially for the Sprinters. Yours Greg are by far, the most well presented and thorough. Your vast knowledge and ability, and systematic approach is a credit to you. The amount of time and detail you have spent on these presentations is amazing. Hundreds around the world will benefit from this grand effort. Have you ever considered producing pre-assembled modules for this large market? You would sell hundreds of the distribution boards and plumbing modules could be designed as well. If you do, or would consider making and selling me a one of the dual distribution boards … You have an order?Many thanks again!
Not only am I now an amateur electrician, but level 1 DIY van conversion builder. Greg mate, your videos are top notch and you're a top man for sharing. Cheers.
Hello David, I do this kind of wiring for a living (PLC I/O panels, motor controllers ect.)and I must say your schematics, build and explanations are top notch! Cheers!
Hello David, that's really nice of you to say so, many thanks. I'm mechanical engineer but have dealt with motor control panels all my life so I know enough to get by but I'm always learning every day. The DC side and solar is all new to me so had to do tons of research.
tptwk - Thanks for your professional stamp of approval. Very good to know that this design meets all safety requirements and has the seal of approval of another professional. I learn almost as much from the comments as the video. Every discussion sheds light and contributes to the knowledgebase.
How much do you charge to install this in a van, if i buy all the equipments?
Hi Greg.
Where did you get the distribution board and components from this video? It’s such I good idea I want to replicate in a build we are starting now.
Thanks
Mark M
Hi there Greg, is there a chance you sell the distribution board?
👍👍👍 Clever bugger is there nothing you can't do 😉👏👏 I'm not an electrician but my best mate is I'm going to show him this when it comes to the wiring of our van thanks again Greg 😉👍
That panel is a thing of beauty. Excellent planning and execution Greg, just as I anticipated. Certainly an excellent example of how to wire your camper safely and correctly and to a high standard.
+Larn Davies, thank you very much. I wanted to make sure there wasn't any exposed mains cabling and this seemed the best way to do that. I shall be getting the install tested and certified by a qualified electrician. Appreciate your support. Cheers
Greg Virgoe well you have created an excellent example of what a master panel should look like, I am sure it will pass inspection easily. Nice stuff
Great work!!
Hi Greg could you list where you bought the components to make your distribution panel Please. Why did you not use circuit breakers for the 12 volt supply too?
X2 that would be really handy... Great video
This is fantastic. I find electickery intimidating - a neighbor died by electrocution when I was a child and it left a deep impression on me. Your video has really inspired me to give it a go. Thank you!
Please take a look at the electric videos in my essential van building playlist. They will be very helpful. th-cam.com/play/PLLhAyWhGGbi4nOabmpkLMGvfLGox2ljp_.html
@@GregVirgoe Will do, thank you!
Iv been planning my build for about a year and will be getting my sprinter/transit in January. This is by far and away the very best explanation video on installing electrical. Thank you so much for making it understandable 😘😘😘😘😘😘
Hi Claire, really pleased that you found it to be useful. I was worried the panel wiring would scare people off.
Best of luck with your future build and I would be interested to see your progress when you get going. Thank you
This is the absolute BEST explanation of the wiring set-up,, considerations to keep in mind and simply how all of it works together in a conversion. I watch a lot of conversion vids and I cannot recall another person breaking it down like you did. I finally know what an inverter is for! LOL Most TH-camrs showing their conversions never go into any detail, just about showing off the final conversion. You're a patient and very good instructor. Thank you!
Thank you very much for such fabulous feedback. It really make me happy to know that you find my videos to be useful. 😀
Very well explained. Your qualified and certified electrician is going to have his easiest job of the day ‘signing off’ on this one 😀.
haha yes, when I last did some electrical work, the electrician that came to certify my work did comment that I needed to get out more. :D lol
Greg Virgoe Hi Greg, I was wondering how did you learn how to do all of this if you are not an electrician yourself? This was a great video by the way, a lot went over my head though XD
I have been doing my research for the past 6 weeks, and I have decided on the van that I will be buying. I was worried about how I would do the electrics, for it looks so complicated. After watching this, I feel like a pro, lol ! and looking forward to getting it done. This is the BEST instruction that I have ever come across. Greg you are a star mate, and looking forward to meeting up on the road. Thanks for your videos.
Thank you for great feedback. For electrics, I made this really good video please watch this one too
th-cam.com/video/rVkDPzrA-zw/w-d-xo.html
Wow I had no idea how any of this worked but you have done an excellent job with drawings and clear labeling. I get it now!
Hi Angela, I'm really pleased that you found it useful, thank you for great feedback.
Just wanted to say thanks for your videos. I’m just about to start my first van. VW crafter and the set up I wanted is pretty much the same as yours. You’ve answered most of my questions I had about certain things. I’m a plumber and have motor vehicle experience so I’m not green. Anyway thanks. Great videos
There are loads of useful info in this video series. Good luck with your build. 👍🏼😃
Ive watched alot of videos and yours are some of the best! excellent pace when explaining, good lighting, stable camera work. Not talking down to people. 5/5
Keep doing what you are doing and youll do really well on youtube! Looking forward to seeing the completed job!
Hi Jamie, thank you very much for your feedback, greatly appreciated.
Only just discovered this series of videos. Very, very impressed. Thorough, comprehensive & most importantly, easy to follow information. By far and away the best van conversion videos I have found. Truly excellent.
I did not build two separate electric systems, Instead in my van build i have the same as your off grid electrical system. But i have a C-tec 30A charger with automatic supply function, which is connected to my leisure batteries and charge them when connected to mains hookup supply. My fridge is 12V, so i rarely have the need to use a 240V inverter, except for rare cases when i haven´t found 5V USB or 12V connections to my electrical needs (computer, camera, phones, IPADs, drone, etc. i have solved with 5V or 12V). That way, everything still runs on the batteries no matter what, but when on mains i charge the batteries at a much faster rate than i drain them. I eliminate the need of double sockets, a distribution board between the two systems and in my case also can do all the electrics myself since it is low voltage. This is a method that have been used in Sweden at least for a long time, and after two years of living in the van i have had no problems.
That sounds really great Jack, looks like you have a good system there. I dare say if I did this again I would change certain things.
Hi Greg, I don’t even drive, at the moment! But your series of self build vids has opened up the possibility of travelling the world in a home built mobile home! Thank you very much!
plebpunk that’s brilliant. Start planning your dream vehicle and hope you get to build it and enjoy the world.
Hey Greg....you did a amazing job on that " Fusebox". You know what you are doing for sure......
Greats from Germany
Cheers, Michael
Hi Michael, that's very nice of you, many thanks
Hey Greg, Thanks for your knowledge! I'm a Brit, living in California and converting a 2020 Sprinter for a Moto-X hauler and your experiences have been really helpful. Please keep them up, much appreciated, Mate!
Thank you very much for watching, glad you like them
I am familiar with the electrics, because this is basically how it works on my boat (old wooden converted fishing troller), where it was done by a certified marine electrician because I didn't trust myself with it. But I sure wish I had had this explanation when I tried to wrap my head around how the electrics worked. Nice, clean build, and very clearly explained. All the fledgling vanlifers out there could definitely make good use of it.
I'm subscribing even though I probably will never convert a van (very happy with my boat), but it'll be instructive and interesting to follow along, I think.
Thank you so much for such great feedback. Do you use solar or wind turbine for off-grid power?
Both because we have the room to put up solar panels, but primarily wind. We live on the coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, where wind is a lot more reliable year around than solar.
I’m guessing you naturally get a difference in air pressure from sea to land so there’s always wind at the coast. Do you have a charge controller that can take a dual supply?
Right, it's almost always windy; we might get a few days in deep summer where everything seems to be dead, but it's rare. Yes, we have a charge controller that can handle multiple inputs.
Great video. Read the comments and didn't see this come up. If I missed the comment sorry. You set up the outlets to switch between mains and inverter, so you only install 1 set of outlets. But by doing that and based on you diagram, when you switch to your inverter the refrigerator and heater will also be on the inverter unless you turn off there breaker.
Hello Don, you are absolutely correct. I have a 2kw inverter so it could power these devices easily. Whether I chose to use them off battery full time is another thing. But like you rightly say you can simply trip their breakers to disable them when running on inverter. Great question. Thanks
@@GregVirgoe Hi Greg. I've watched this video many times over, and it's brilliant. Totally got my head around how it's all working, very clever indeed and beautifully executed. I was also thinking the same thing as Don (hence reading through every comment in case it was discussed), in that when switched to Inverter, the Fridge and Truma would be getting a 230v supply and hence switch over to that mode. I'm going to be using a CRX50 and Combi 4E based on your recommendations. Isn't it better to leave them on 12V and LPG respectively if there is no hook up available?
Great video, finally someone who goes into detail but has clairity in their communication. You must be an Engineer! So glad i've subcribed. All the best with the conversion. 😎
Thank you, yes, I've been a mechanical services engineer for 30years, actually started in a design office, from leaving school, drawing control panel wiring diagrams 😃 Really appreciate your feedback.
Dusty Korpse c
You have given me all the information and advice I needed. I have watched hundreds of hours and you have given the best information
Hi nice channel by the way so for 2 .4 KW from the inverter you will need 2400/12=200 Amp fuse required, If you do put the fuse in the box like that it will only protect the foot long piece of wire going to the next set of fuses which seems expensive to me. Its best to fuse as close to the source as possible like your batterys for instance so it protects the whole cable run, as it is if you had a fault anywhere between your incoming side of your fuse and the battery then that would be a catastrophe in the making. Same goes with the inverter but I would expect an inverter to have a fuse on the output side. I do apologise if I sound a bit strong but its best to get it out in the open. your change-over switch looks ok tho as it swops both live and neutral so no probs there.
Hello, yes well spotted. I made a mistake with the sizing of the inverter breaker and as you have suggested will remove this from the panel and site near the batteries.
I will do an edit to this video and the schematic to correct it. Thanks for your help.
A rule-of-thumb method of calculating the current draw of an inverter is this: 12 volt inverters require approximately one (1) amp of DC input for each 10 watts of AC output. Using this method the ohm's law calculation suggested by Master of the Universe yields a result that is still less than would be required to properly fuse the input and calculate battery discharge rates. In this example: 2400/10 =240 amps--a 20% difference.
I think MotU raising this issue and highlighting the high current draw was excellent. He identified several very important points. Placing the inverter in close proximity to the batteries and insuring that the cable guage is a sufficient to handle the current should also be layout considerations.
I am no expert, so take this with a grain of salt. I just did some cursory research because I was shocked (no pun intended) at the very high potential current draw. As Greg has said numerous times--if you are not comfortable with or have a good understanding of the electrics--get expert help.
Master of the Univers
We're in the process of researching and preparing our van conversion. Just had to tell you your videos are the best we've found. You're an excellent teacher. Thank you.
That’s really nice of you to say so Tami. Many thanks 😊
Just found your mini series Greg. Absolutely awesome seeing as I managed to buy a sprinter yesterday and get it delivered so I can finally start my build. Great content and really informative. 🤙
hands down the best video on this topic anywhere on TH-cam! Brilliant! All I have to do now is watch it another 10times till it sinks in!
Liked & subscribed! Excellent video. More of this for the world, sir, you're such an excellent instructor!
Many thanks for your great feedback Stanislas ANDRE.
Thank you so much for your excellent presentation of a control panel that you have so superbly designed. This is truly an invaluable video for learners at all level. Everyone should aspire to the high standard you have shown. I would say with confidence, you are a true professional and a great teacher. Priceless sharing indeed. Thank you.
That is very nice of you to leave such amazing feedback. I really do appreciate you. Thank you 🙏🏼 😊
we need Greg Virgoe to be on TV
An absolute gifted individual
push for more subscribers
WOW high praise indeed, thank you very much, Mohammed
OMG it's a thing of beauty!
I love your perfection.
So clear, simple & precise.
Wish I could buy one from you.
Because here in Australia 12v & 240v are done separately by x2 different technicians.
I am expecting quite a battle to get any sense out of anything they do.
In Australia all wiring must be done by "qualified tradesmen".
I'll spend many a night dreaming about your control panel.
Can you not do the install then get it tested and signed off by an electrician?
As stated by a lot of viewers, this is probably the best explained electrical video I have EVER watched on TH-cam. I do have some electrical knowledge but would have no idea as to where to even start designing my electrics. Now, thanks to you, I have a great starting point.
I have some questions though, sorry :o)
1 - My Sprinter is likely to be an ex-ambulance (if they are long wheelbase) or just a standard hightop LWB. I have no plans to use anything at 240v. I will likely only use 12v devices for fridge, pumps and chargers (I can get a 12v charger for my laptop). I, even at home, do not own a TV. Is it likely that I can have enough roof mounted solar panels on a LWB to survive 2-3 days using similar usage times as you without the need for mains charging? I plan to have 4 batteries with no need for an inverter or 240v circuits.
2 - Would you be able to organise your video library into groups e.g. van build, other builds etc. and number them so I can follow your progress along?
3 - How much do you expect your build to cost and time it will take (Working on weekends only)? Please exclude the cost of the van as they vary wildly.
Thanks for the series. I am eagerly looking forward to watching your progress. I will probably start mine around April as I don't have a garage or private driveway.
Hello Nomadd, thanks for such great feedback.
If you are only using 12v appliances then just use a 12v blade fuse holder off your leisure battery as per the 12v page of my schematic. Don't forget a split charge relay when you're driving along and possibly mains charger when on hook up.
All my videos are sorted into playlists, go to the header of my main page for navigation. You can play a complete playlist from start to finish with on click.
My build is not a budget build at all and it is likely to cost between 7-8k that is on top of the cost of the van. But when you see the finish you will understand why it is so much. Want a professional finish or as best as possible. Planning to have it all finished before start of summer next year.
Thanks for your support and best wishes with your own build.
Thanks for the reply. I see you do put the effort in to give great replies. All the best.
Nomadd UK
i couldn't say it better myself
Greg Virgo is simply one of the best and clear concise channels iv come across. A true god send
Great video, nice to see a video dealing with the real issues, not just cushion colour and cladding. Thanks for your content, it’s excellent👍😀😀🍺
This is excellent video but can I ask one quetsion and make one observation. Are you adding a battery charger to charge the batteries when on hook up and also from engine when engine running? The observation relates to the green light, that would drive me barmy at night, big attraction for me is how dark a van can be at night. Thanks the videos are great and I was able to follow the logic.
Hello David, yes and yes to your initial questions. The panel is to be housed in the garage at the rear of the van, so will not be in view from living area and no lights at night. Good point though, thank you
Hi Greg , I am enjoying looking at your conversion and am impressed with your high quality planning and fabrication skills.
Also your still open to advice and opinions of others.
Well done.
There are always other ways to do things and welcome advice from anyone, this is the first time we have done a van so it can be very helpful to hear what others have done before us. Glad you like the channel, thanks for watching
This is a work of art. For the change over switch, were you able to find a switch that does two in and one out? I've only been able to find something that changes between a series of ins and outs. Would you be able to share a schematic of how you wired the change over switch?
Loving the build series, I’m going to doing a van build exactly like this as I want to be able to take my bikes with me on my trips 👍🏻😃
Your panel wiring is a work of art mate 👍🏻
Thank you. What type of bike you looking to carry?
@@GregVirgoe my plan is to take a street triple and my dr 350. This will give me the option of road or green lanes.
I’m just a bit worried about the weight of two bikes
I’ll most likely have to fit air bags like you have
Hi Greg, great video as always! I'm curious to know what dis box that is? I've been looking to do something similar in my van but I can't find a box that has enough room around the 230v buzz bar to fit the 12v cabling and switches etc
Things schema of electricity is beautiful.. You are so generous.. Share it with my family.. Thank you
Thank you for your nice comment and for sharing my video.
great vid I keep going over each of your vids I think I have worn out the pause button, wondering which inverter you went with, also were did you get your 12v not the blade one but the one on the front of you distribution box please, LOOKS LIKE YOUR HAVING A GREAT TIME ON YOUR TRAVELS SEE SOON
It was a Chinese inverter off Ebay, it was 2kw and about £200 but not sure it’s giving me the best power out. Had a few issues so won’t recommend it.
The 12v trips are single pole DC thermal magnetic circuit breakers. These are marine ones but you can get DC circuit breakers that look just the same as normal household trips and more readily available. Just search for DC circuit breakers and they come in a range of different ratings for what you need. Mine was 60Amps 👍🏼
Great video Greg. I am a complete novice on van builds so lots of this was just waaaaay to complex. Despite that, I did learn some good basics. You did an amazing job on this conversation. The level of detail is immense.
Greg great video again. Not sure how i missed this video but it explains this morning's question. Do you have any material on where you sourced the parts to build it? And they're names? Thanks, Michael
Hi Greg! Absolutely love your videos, been watching 3 hours straight :). 2 questions:
I noticed you use the same cable for all your 12V DC wiring. If I look at my wiring then I have different cable thickness for my waterpump, lights, fridge, etc... I got these measurements from their respective manuals. The fridge even has a 10mm2 cable requirement as the distance to the batteries is quite far and this to ensure to have as minimum voltage loss.
I would love to read your opinion on this :)?
2nd: I noticed in your calculation for your watt hours that you list the fridge as only 6 hours on per day. Aren't you using the fridge constantly? Or is this the actual time it's consuming power?
Thanks again for your incredible videos!
The fridge compressor wouldn’t run constantly. So the 6 hours would be the total compressor run time in a 24 hour period
Thank you I have been racking my brain for a year on how to install both systems in my van. Great job thank you!
Really pleased you found it to be useful. Cheers
Very efficient Greg 👍
Thank you Gary, much appreciated. 😊
Best electric instruction according to camper build I have ever seen!!!
Will you be selling the fuse box? Would be a God send if you were!
Hello, unfortunately not, sorry. I wouldn't be able to make it at a low enough price to sell and cover the time it takes to build.
Hello Greg. Great videos. Thank you. I'm an electrician of 30+ years. Just a couple of things the RCD should be 30mA tripping current for shock protection. With a 70 amp input current to the inverter could you mention your cable sizes? Also I hope you will show this on a completed electrical installation video? You have inspired me to move on my own camper build. Thanks again. David
what if you hire people, and you just sign off on them?
McTaggart Family b
Great no nonsense videos thanks Greg. Not to clever to accept useful updates from others either :)
Seems that everyone will have their own take on what's best for them but your videos are so well put together that anyone can make a start from them. Thanks a million. Rich
Richard Cory, great feedback thank you, I hope that most people can pick up a few tips that might help them. 👍🏼
I have a question about earthing. As home wiring is earthed for safety and also the sockets that you will be using with the usb connector. How do you wire both 12v and mains into one sockek?
Hello PreOAP, I'm not wiring 12v to the household sockets.
I'll only be wiring 230v power to the sockets. This will come from either the mains hook up or from the inverter. The sockets will be earthed back to the panel and the rear metal plate of the panel is the earthing point for all items in the panel. Hope that helps
Greg Virgoe Yes that makes sense. I wanted to check so thanks for clarifying it. Regards
Greg Greg Greg im trying to keep up. Just need to keep watching. This one is a little bit simpler. Its late here where I am my eyes and brain has had enough for today. I will pick class back up tomorrow. Be safe be bless 🙏
Hi would like to ask a few question re electric
paul durrant have you watched this one yet th-cam.com/video/rVkDPzrA-zw/w-d-xo.html
paul durrant and this one th-cam.com/video/koFg6oFs0RU/w-d-xo.html
thank you where did you get your electrics from, finding quite hard to source supplyer
paul durrant I designed it myself and we built the control box from parts sourced from RS Components. The box is a weatherproof ABS electrical control panel box.
@@GregVirgoe thanks for this. Just embarking on the electrics for my partners van build. What size of IP66 box did you use please? checked your links to boxes and they just bring up a list of all different boxes. Again thank you! Rick
Brilliant clear, simple explanation of what (to me at least) is an incredibly complicated and daunting process. Look forward to seeing the next instalment :)
Thanks Rob, this video I was worried about if it would be too complicated. Thanks for great feedback. Cheers
Thank you so much for your helpful videos and kind nature! We very much appreciate what you are doing for those with lesser knowledge.
+Shane & Megan Nelson, thank you for your great feedback. I’m really pleased you found them interesting.
So well thought out. It all makes sense when it’s all complete like this but building up that panel and fuses and switches would be beyond me. I wouldn’t know where to even buy the parts
Love what you did with the distribution box. I'm just finalising my re-build (built my van a few years ago) and your video gave me loads of ideas :)
Parts now ordered, thanks.
Really glad you liked the panel, will you be posting any of your build online?
Thanks Greg. Yes I will, I did the last one (myselfbuildcamper.co.uk). The plans for the new are here if you're interested: th-cam.com/video/DvtA4wp6K4Y/w-d-xo.html
Looking forward to your next video. Thanks again, David
Very smart system, I designed, build, install and Commission control panels for factories and hotels for a living so can definitely appreciate good workmanship. I would mention however that having MCBs greater than 16a pointless as the largest supply you can draw would be limited to the hookup supply current (16a) so any breaker greater than this would be ineffective. I would also recommend installing a 16a double pole RCBO rather than the RCD as then if you where to overload the supply or have an internal fault such as a short circuit it would trip in the van rather than the hookup supply protective device.
I have swapped out the MCBs for smaller ratings as you rightly say there is no point.
Thank you for a very impressive, professional, well thought out, and simple to understand panel build. I will certainly be using your demonstration as a model for my own projects.
These are really good, informative videos, love the amount of detail you cover and its refreshing to see a someone working up a van professionally who actually knows what they're doing too! Keep up the great work!
Thanks very much, Ashley, hopefully, it will give everyone some really useful information to do their own builds
another great video and very professionally made - a real education for anybody thinking of self building a van conversion.
Thank you very much Barry, pleased you found it to be useful.
Excellent wiring which I am going to use elements of, particularly the neatness and layout using DIN rails. The problem is, which you have probably already picked up, is your 2000W inverter is going to be running to power the tiny LED indicating it is on. Better to have an inverter with a remote so you can switch it on and off when you need it. The USB charging sockets on the 240V sockets will do the same.
Hello Stephen, is this a problem just because of the small constant power use or is there another reason that I have overlooked?
Thank you for your help.
This is excellent teaching & knowledge. I appreciate your vlogs.
Thank you Jesse, pleased you are enjoying them.
Thanks Greg. Watched the video. You clearly know what you’re talking about. However.... imagine if you can that I don’t have a scooby doo. The system looks exactly what I’m looking for. I don’t even know where the existing wiring is in my van as it’s all hidden. All I know is it’s a sergeant system. I will have to get the conversion company to put my inverter in. Just worries me that they said this could not be done. You can do it so obviously it can be done. I have asked the conversion company for a wiring diagram. If they produce it I will let you know. You may be able to give me some more advice in the future. Very happy to have found you on TH-cam and happy to be a subscriber. 👍🏼
ian sharp you just need to put the mains hook up on one side of the changeover switch, your inverter supply on the other side of the changeover switch and the output from the switch to your Sargent panel where the mains would normally be connected.
You can put the changeover switch in a small plastic box. You don’t need a huge panel like mine just keep it simple. What model Sargent panel do you have? I will dig out the wiring schematics 👍🏼
ian sharp on your Sargent power unit there will be a set of input terminals for the mains hook up.
Disconnect the mains, install switch as above description and wire back to these terminals from the output of the changeover switch. 😀
That’s great. Thanks Greg. I will have a look now. Stand by. I really appreciate the time you’ve taken to help someone who doesn’t have a clue. Very very helpful. Thank you. It’s an EC155 I can send you a picture if you like. You’re a top man. 👍🏼
ian sharp ok so I have the wiring diagrams for that panel. sargentltd.co.uk/shop/product/132/tech-spec/40
I can see the 230v input terminals on top of page 4
It appears there are a number of 230v outlets including a heater and boiler.
I would recommend not using those via your inverter as your battery will not last long at all.
So as long as you size your inverter large enough for your total loads in Watts and remember not to use the heater and boiler of the inverter it will work just fine. Hope that helps. Just ask if you need anything clarifying 👍🏼😊
ian sharp this is the changeover switch you need to switch from inverter to mains
rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F401993210348
I have been looking for a video like this forever thank God I found this video! Thanks!
Hi Nadia, thank you 😊
There will be another on the solar and batteries you may find useful too.
Greg Virgoe Super! I'm looking forward to see it!
Just what we needed, thank you Greg. Brilliant, and very clearly explained. Subscribed.
Nick, Helen York thanks guys. You should find loads of really useful videos here.
This whole series has been excellent Greg. It’s good to have so much advise to do this work on a UK van for use in the U.K.
Thanks very much Simon, Glad you found them to be useful to you.
You used in one video a 1 pin wire connectors in a Wago connector. I would like to know where to purchase these connectors can't find. You just pushed smal stranded wire in connectors and made wire easy to slide into Wago with ease.
Di think you are referring to “cable Ferules” they are like a shoelace crimp to bring all the lose strands together. Wago can be purchased from screwfix or tool station 😊
Greg, reading through your many answers regarding the above control box it might be an idea to create a 'shopping list' with links and specs (some of your current links are 'dead')......as you have had to answer the same question many times over!
Incidentally if you could post the total build cost for the box then it would be a good comparison to see if its worth buying a similar 'certified' one off the the shelf, or go to the extent of a self build one? I know its a load of work for you but might help in answering the same questions over and over.Great work btw!
Hey Greg,
First off I will say thank you so much! Your videos are so informative and well made!
So nice to have people like you that put so much love and time into helping are a true inspiration!
I am just about to start a van build and am trying to source out all the materials and parts I will need and pricing.
If you have the time I would love to get a list of all the parts and components used in this control panel? And maybe a link for the distribution box?
I have seen that a few other people before me have asked but I still haven’t seen you respond to any of them (maybe I missed out on one comment).
Any ways thank you so much for every thing you are doing mate!
Thanks for the nice comment. To be honest there is a much simpler solution and I wouldn’t build another panel. You can buy a changeover switch in a plastic box and do the mains switching with that. The rest is best done as per my off grid camper wiring video.
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/184127769293?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=G_yfF4ABSeS&sssrc=2349624&ssuid=IAwKHBzwQ6K&var=691839853101&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
OY! My wife and I are sat out in the van waiting to pull the blue capables... hurry up with the next video before we freeze!
Cheers!
Hi Tom, glad you’re following along. What type of van do you have? What are your plans? Two videos out this weekend. Cheers 👍🏼
Due to a need for wheelchair accessibility we have an Iveco 50C15 former minibus (Iris Bus). Living area for conversion is 4.5x1.8. It will have a garage with bed over for a large, off-road, mobility scooter. With a 5 ton vehicle we are not too concerned about weight of materials, in fact I need a bit on the back end to bring the suspension down to level!
Looking forward to the next video's. Many thanks!
Hi Tom, sounds like you have got a great base vehicle to start with. Have you got head liner vents and lights all existing? I’ve spent a lot of time trying to finalise my design and decide what appliances to purchase and where they are going to go so I can get a concrete plan to work off. My day job has been taking its toll. I’ve got next week off so planning to spend more time on it. Expect more vids very soon. Keep me posted with your progress be interested to hear how you get on. Good luck.
Hi Greg
Bus has good headliner with almost perfect lighting for us. There is decent roof top vent with cowling plus a large opening skylight. It has a fully fitted and piped Eberspacher D5 heater. Obviously we need to strip out the floor, walls and roof to fully insulate but hopefully the panels will the replace. I'm expecting to have to replace the floor. Our plans are to have insulation and boarding done over the winter. We don't need to rush, but would like to have it in use by next spring.
Finalising plans and layouts is a nightmare, but you sound like a logical bloke and I'm sure you have (like me) schematics and lists for everything!
Tom Stratton, sounds like a good starting point.
My plans are coming together fast, just a few pieces of the jigsaw to find. We too need to be up and running for end of May next year. Big plans!
Wow, impressive! Wish I could afford to fly you to Seattle, WA USA, when I am ready to have the electrical put in my van. Very good job and good explanation. Definately something I will not undertake by myself.
I would always recommend using a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. I will be getting my system professionally tested and certified once it's complete. Thank you for the compliments.
I'm not sure this van will be amazing, but it will works as a master piece! Looking forward to build my own van! Continue always doing good stuff in the internet qnd you're gonna be bigg!
Gessica Tonin, thank you for your support and nice comment. Good luck with your future van build.
I know this video is quite old but just looking at the series now. I would love to know what size inverter was used as its supplying all sockets including fridge, heaters etc, that would have to be some size inverter to run all that lot. Your level of workmanship though is second to none and admired by many van camper builders
very nice panel david ,i build and work on panels daily -and the only thing i would change is to use the changeover switch to operate 2 contactors- as the smaller switches are prone to failing when carrying inductive loads-bound to fail at the worst possible time too lol
Excellent design on your panel Greg. However, I would always have an isolator in front of both the incoming mains. Anyone opening the panel needs to know it's completely isolated when it's opened. Guys like us know to be careful when putting our hands in to a panel. I would reckon a four pole switch or breaker would do the job with a warning on the live junction covers. It could be an external setup or a switch mounted on the door with a mechanical interlock that prevents the door from being opened when the switch is closed (on position). The two mains lights would give most people an indication that the panel has live mains going in also. Another option would be to put a label on the panel warning users to disconnect the shore power hook-up and the inverter power hook-up. Just one more thought. The system could be easily automated with a four pole contactor, that way you can never forget to change over the selector switch to shore power and preserve battery power.
As you can see John, this is just an adapted plastic box. It’s not a proper panel with hinged door as that would have been easier to add a door interlocked isolator. I will be having external isolators on solar feed and battery feed and can easily unplug the shore lead. A simple notice on the panel for a.n.other should cover those not in the know.
Thanks for the feedback 👍🏼
Hello Greg. I did appreciate that it was a plastic enclosure which would be tricky to mount a interlocked switch to. Coming from an industrial electrical background I probably over complicate things at times. Unfortunately it was drummed into me as an apprentice and it's not easy not noticing these things. Seriously though fantastic videos. I'm presently working on my Peugeot Boxer and have been getting a lot of good ideas from you. Cheers
Hi John, it's always good to bounce ideas off each other and I welcome all your feedback and comments. What are you plans for the Boxer?
It's a L3 H2 bought brand new in July. At the moment I'm fitting it out very modular with cheap plastic drawers and boxes to see how my layout works for me. Initially I was going for the full build out all done in quality components and materials. Now I've changed to this try it and see method. I'll put in my solar and services fairly permanently as they don't take much to regig. Because the van is new I'm reluctant to cut large holes in the roof and sides so I'm going fully stealth and I'll put in a ducted ventilation system running in tandem with the van's existing ventilation setup. There are hidden grills in the rear bumper to ease the seal for door closing purposes, so I'm pretty confident I can patch a ventilation system into these grills and flaps. With my electrical background I'm going 100% electricity for cooking and heating. I'll install a 24 volt battery system with a 4KW inverter. I've also considered going 48 volt, problem there is components start to become expensive. I'm working on a heat exchanger for the exhaust to heat my water with a solar and electrical backup for it.I'll change the front seats to two swivelling Captain's seats and incorporate this driving cap into my living area and dinning area. This way I have maximum floor space to have an open plan walk through to the back doors. Hey I'm starting to ramble now. I've been recording it so I might put it up for all to see and comment on.Anyway. Cheers for now
Thank you, You have helped me out heaps love your vids, its an absolute pleasure watching a master craftsman at work. I have just started a Mitsubishi Rosa bus conversion and you have answered a lot of questions in your videos. Go well Cheers Doug
WOW, I had to Google that, it is HUGE for a van conversion, mansion on wheels :D
You won't be stuck for space in there, I'd be interested to see your plans and updates.
Hi Greg yip bigger but we are going to full time in it so worried not big enough.
Thanks well understood tutorial, and I am a dum dum when it comes to understanding these things. Yet I understood how it works.
Mo Hawk that’s great I’m pleased you liked it 👍🏼
Top video as always , But I have installed the 12v electrics after the insulation so it's easier to get at should the need arise, there is plenty of room in the 25mm cavity between the batten and the boards to run the wiring tidily .
Hi Greg
Just picked up on your videos from watching you with gadget John in Spain I have an Adria motorhome myself but I just love the build videos you have done although I have a motorhome they really help in understanding the workings of the electrics and appliances , and the way you explain things is very easy to take in , love your videos and now a very avid subscriber thanks again
Jim
Thanks Jim, you can apply the same principles and at least if somethign was to happen you would know how to fix it on the road :D
About the best van conversion video, I have seen up to now please don't stop making these videos. First Class, brilliant.
Are you having a split charge circuit to charge the batteries while on the move?
and are you installing a battery charger for charging your batteries when plugged into an electric hook up?
Are you installing a 3 way fridge 240v, 12v, gas
Hello Neil, thank you for great feedback 👍🏼
1. Yes have got a split charge relay kit to fit.
2. Yes, trying to find a suitable mains charger for the leisure batteries.
3. No, just a 2way, mains and 12v but not gas as I don’t want to cut huge vents in the side of the van.
Thanks for watching.
Thanks Greg. Your a very good teacher.
Thank you Jenny
Hi. I was really impressed with your design and implementation; clearly a lot of thought and experience has gone into this. I do have a slight safety concern though - not a problem for you but more for people following. I notice that your AC live wires inside your control box appear black - which is fine for a house build in which you tend to only find AC circuits; but where you've got a mix of AC and DC in a box I'd hope that the AC live would be brown as black would normally be used for the DC negative/ground. Using the same colour for a DC ground as an AC hot wire leaves a risk for less experienced people who might mess it up. It could be a camera thing (brown can look like black if in shadow) but if people are following your design from your video they might get confused. Might I suggest/recommend an annotation to help people get this right (or at least pick different colours for their AC and DC components).
Yes, you are correct the current wiring colours for AC are brown for the live.
What I will do is wrap a small piece of brown insulating tape on each cable to mark it as live.
There will be a detailed wiring diagram within the panel. Well spotted.
Hi Greg, Myself and my husband are absolutely blown away by the quality of your workmanship, it’s an absolute please to watch! Thank you for being so generous with the detail on every part of your seriously impressive van conversion! You don’t know how much you’ve help us and so many others!
May I ask (if you ever have time?) for a parts brake down of your electrical control panel as we’d like one exactly like yours!
Cheers
Karen
Karen Pearson, thank you for the lovely message. Most of the internal parts are sourced from RS Components. I’m not sure I would build another one.
I would try and do away with as much of the 230volt stuff. Lose a lot of the sockets and try and go more 12v on everything.
We have only switched over to hook up twice in two years because we are 100% solar and off grid all the time and just not used half the sockets I fitted. You love and learn I guess. My latest wiring video is more in line with how I would go now.
Greg Virgoe 👍
Hi Greg, we've built the electrics box and pick up our van hopefully on Saturday. Can you attach photos on here? I'm a very proud wife as he did it almost one handed (he cut off some fingers a month ago in an accident!) P.s he is an electrical engineer. Thanks for all your help!
Karen Pearson oh dear I cannot imagine doing that.
Well done for getting that done under the circumstances. You can pm
Me on social media or there is an email link on the about page here.
Great video I am learning so much thank you!!!
Really pleased they are useful to you. Thanks
Thank you for the PDF files. Although I am new to this, I can take the pdf to someone who can help.
Hi Chico, I'm pleased that you found it to be useful. Thank you for letting me know.
Amazing piece of art that Picasso would be proud of , have to say sadly it’s gone right over my head 🤦♂️🤣. But definitely something I wish to look into further and may quiz you , my one big question is how do you charge your leisure battery’s from say a mains supply I’m guessing solar but no mention of mains charging or vehicle charging ??
I have a 30A mains battery charger connected to me hook up socket for emergency use if we don’t have enough solar. See this video How to Wire your Camper Van to be Off-Grid
th-cam.com/video/rVkDPzrA-zw/w-d-xo.html
To charge while driving you would need a DC to DC charger wired between both sets of batteries.
Great work Gregg ..planning a Sprinter build myself...this will an awsome build aid. Thanks...keep up the great video work . A T B
Thank you Russell for taking the time to give me such great feedback and best wishes for your forthcoming build.
Love your youtube films👄This lady is happy😁 my sprinter van will be working good with all your information. Thanks a milion 😚
Really pleased that you find them to be useful to you.
Best wishes with your own build.
Resently i came across your channel and your campervan build had my intrest. Of course i subscribbed and had to catch up on your build.
This panel is a work of art and insperation for me to build one
for my workvan. And maby a second panel for a future camper van build. Thanks for the detailed explanation. Greetz Jasper from the Netherlands.
You are most welcome, please do let me know how you get on and maybe share some photos. Cheers
Id like to buy such a magic box. I m not in electronic😊 again very helpfull! thx🙏🏻
Great video Greg 👍🏼 excellently explained as daunted about the electrics !! really looking forward to your next videos thank you
Hello Simon, thank you for great feedback, very much appreciated. Cheers
Fantastic design and great thorough description. Thanks.
Excellent would love to be able to buy one. Not got a clue with electrical systems.
Great video. everything explained in detail. Will be starting my conversion in a few months. These videos will be invaluable. Thanks for sharing.👍
You’re videos are always so easy to understand, and I’m sure this one is too, but my brain just melted when I saw that thing. Is there anything like this that is manufactured? This is just completely beyond me.
Sorry to be asking over 2 years late.
thankyou so much for making these videos :) very helpful me and my girlfriend are researching at the moment and just getting a head up before we start building :)
this is so good. Would really love to copy your panel but im not sure I can build that... You should make these and sell them...
Take a look at my latest wiring video just released it’s far better system than this old panel 👍🏼😃
You are Genius! Thanks for all the videos!!
Thank you EILEEN, much appreciated
My Sprinter is 2017 euro 6 with smart alternator and I am going with Votronik german DC- DC charger from the starter battery while driving and AC-DC charger in garage, winter time
Absolutely awesome video mate... well explained, well planned and well filmed too... liked and subscribed... as I will also be looking to buy another Merc sprinter for my van conversion in April 2018. Keep up the great work mate, cant wait to see the next one.
Thanks Adam, I assume you have done conversions before?
What are your plans for the new van in April?
I will flick you a message to your facebook page as a reply to this if that's OK with you Greg?
Hi Greg, Can you or possibly any of you subscriber's reading this, suggest any good learning material to help me understand all this better. I'm beginning to seriously consider converting a van for permanent living and can see that this is something that I am going to have to understand much more about!
Brilliant videos
thanks
Paul
Hello Paul, along with my video series I can also recommend a very good campervan build book which I have that gives step by step instructions on all aspects. rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-53481-19255-0/1?icep_id=114&ipn=icep&toolid=20004&campid=5338027957&mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fsch%2FBooks-Comics-Magazines%2F267%2Fi.html%3F_fcid%3D3%26_sop%3D12%26_stpos%3DCM3%2B8UT%26_nkw%3Dself%2Bbuild%2Bcampervan%2Bconversions%26rt%3Dnc%26_dmd%3D2
Greg Virgoe
Hi Greg
Thanks for the prompt reply. Brilliant, that's ordered and on its way and along with your awesome video series hopefully will keep me out of trouble in the #vanlife future! keep up the good work Greg. Really enjoying this series!