ECOFLOW SUMMER SALE - USE LINK AND CODE 'BushmanandBlue' FOR EXTRA 5% OFF (until 24th July in the UK) EcoFlow Website: uk.ecoflow.com/pages/summer-sale?aff=82? 5% Coupon code for EcoFlow’s website: BushmanandBlue
When using silicon, use a mix of fairy liquid and water in a plastic cup or something similar, and dip your finger in that, makes a good finish and stops everything getting messy. Just a tip for anyone out there 👍
As a designer, I appreciate innovation and that van is absolutely 💯. I have been living vicariously through your adventure Al and simply love Blue. I did not know that the UK and Scotland had such beautiful spaces. Here in amazing South Africa, I wish we could do these things but the country is too dangerous for women...its not the wildlife...its the people.
As a female who knows absolutely nothing about things like this, i ll admit i didnt watch it through but gave u a thumbs up anyway. Looking forward to seeing bluey and youey back on the fells again
Whats being female got to do with it? I'm can do all this with a van and I drive a class 1 truck as a job just like the boys. Being female is irrelevant
The workmanship, time, effort and attention detail on that van is absolutely first class. You should be really proud of yourself mate. True professional in every sense. Can’t wait to see where your adventures take you. Keep the great content coming mate 😉
Thank you master I want to build a ecoflow system in to my VW I'd.3 Also the Glacier fridge. Your video help alot... Now the Scandinavian outdoor adventure to Nordic polar cirkle take shape ❤❤
great instructional video, thank you for sharing. I attached my 315W semi flexible solar panel to my Kia Carnival with Twin-wall polycarbonate strips using VHB (Very High Bond) Tape (as in the Vented Gap Kit) and I also used Gorilla Tape in between each cell around the sides from the top of the panel to the car surface, as my roof has ribs, it's not a flat surface. I never had any problems through marine force winds and hale storms, and road trains passing me on the highway etc. in Western Australia, it was when a skip bin truck operator emptied his rubbish on my car and the glass that was inside the rubbish bag dented the roof in a few places, I was so thankful I followed the manufacturers recommendations as the solar panel had to be removed to allow the crash repairer to repaint the whole roof of the car. Thankfully the VHB and gorilla tapes were so easy to uninstall, now I can reuse my solar panel on my 2nd home on wheels I'm building out in the New Year. The solar panel company advised MS Polymer (i.e. Fix15) and Sikaflex (Polyurethane adhesive) are unsuitable as it is unlikely both the panel and surface will expand and contract at the same rate, therefore an adhesive with some ‘give’ will be required to absorb the difference. The recommended adhesive products are: VHB (Very High Bond) double sided tape, Silicone based adhesives (i.e. SG20, Fix8) or Bi-adhesive backing. An excellent job on installation though, you're very talented, hopefully you'll never need to remove yours.
@@BUSHMANandBLUE yes it would be, hopefully you'll never have to...lol. I found after having that accident, I will always do it the same way, if I don't there's no warranty on my $700 solar panel as I'm not following the manufacturer's directions, plus if I needed to get to the roof ever again I can remove it easily, it's also less messy using vhb tape, that stuff is used to hold skyscrapers together and caravans, they don't use nuts and bolts anymore due to the ease of use of the tape and the fact it holds forever. As my vehicles are always brand new, I didn't want to cut any holes in the roof...lol...the auto electrician wired it in using the existing grommets already in the van for the other electrical cords coming in from the rear barn door area.
The best advice ever. "use your body while it still works well! the same advice I received from my father when he was in his 90s". And yeah, thank you for the informative video :)
hi allen yr camper is absolutely brilliant job y done love yr fridge a need 2 get one alive it so going out tomorrow 2 get one for my next trip it is great job y done 👍👍give blue a hug
Hi Bushman! I'm choosing solar panel for my Delta mini, thanks a lot for this vid! Firstly Im was warried about fact that you can damage one panel (when putting it into glue moment), but I've seen few videos (about exactly this flexible panel) and can say that ~170 watts is normal results for your conditions! And of cause my heart is down when there is no "beep" on checking moment. Chees from Ukrane 💙💛 and sorry for my English writing. I think is good panel for placing it into balcony of my flat, then I was prepared for new blackouts at winter and at least can charge my phones and notebook!
Great panels but one thing to consider. Once glued down they will be extremely difficult to get off again if they fail and they do fail! You might be better attaching a ridged one to a roof rack which can be taken off and replaced if it breaks. Also you could take it off when you are not using it. Just a thought👍👍👍
@@BUSHMANandBLUEyes any severe weather with hail or impact damage from derbis could damage them. A better way to mount them is riv nuts in the six mounting holes so u just need to glue the front edges down.
Well Al, what can one say? Your bushmobile is looking good, but more importantly, it does what it says on the tin, and that is being a home from home. Well done there. All you now need is a gee-tar so that other campers can sit and listen to your dulcet Yorkshire tones. You've made quite the dream real, and I'm sure you'll have inspired others to work on their dreams, too. Now, sell your house and away ye go!
thanks for the great video! we have just purchased our first camper van and we are trying to figure out the best way to power it up. We purchased a. bluetti ac180 1800w power bank along with a 200w portable panel and we are hoping it can power our mini fridge and a fan. i was also looking into the flexible panels but i'm worried bc we get really hot weather here in socal and i'm worried about the longevity of it, i might try to attach a glass panel but use your hook up design. we just want something that's easy to set up and function!
This is not construction it is differant and i wont dog you out ....i like your pride ......my opinon pannels need air flow like on a house roof ......Time will tell
Good job there Al - as long as the blind man on his horse is riding past at midnight that is 🤣😂😁 rack 'o 't eye and twist 'o 't gob was a common phrase when I was serving my time! (bricklaying that is, not prison!) BTW you can get really handy cable tie mounts with 3M tape on the back. We use them at work and you can get UV resistant ones - just peel off and stick on the roof and then you could cable tie those cables on the roof. They are really low profile and won't be noticeable. Any other type of cable and I may be having words about your bend radius though young man! Cheers, Matt
As usual, ‘ top job’ with the panels, thank goodness those wires you tested worked, once you put the machine on the correct thingy Me jig 🤣🤣🤣 The fridge/freezer is super duper!! 😊
Evening, are these films shown out of sequence, as I am certain I saw an internal shot showing the internal paneling of the van removed. Still a great video. You need to get a bespoke tool belt made for Blu. That wire stripping tool, is very similar to a tool I use for making antenna cables (Radio Ham) clamp it around the cable and all the cores are cut to the right length in seconds, even does satellite cables.
Hello. Thanks for this as I’m about to do the same thing. Just one Q: why didn’t you get a single 200w panel rather than 2 x 100w? It would’ve made installing it a lot easier as you could’ve avoided all that curve shenanigan...
You look as though you are thoroughly enjoying yourself 🎉 and doing such an excellent job i would not be surprised if, in a few months, you did not do it all again in a larger van 😂 specially now you have found so many ways to improve your van ❤❤❤❤❤
Brilliant video (Silly price for that fridge though...!!! Jeez) but.... no no no no no, 17:53 the way you put the plyers down on that beautiful new solar panel.... my heart sank! Anyway, Ive got another flexible panel going in next week on my girl so your vid really helped with some ideas. thanks
@@BUSHMANandBLUE As I found out today when my new flexy panel arrived. I stand corrected. Your video has helped with the curve on the front on my van, Thanks
You should be quite proud of your work on the van! I don't think you realize the positive messages you send during your videos. I can relax while I watch your harsh weather camping, especially in Snow, while it's currently so hot outside! I plan to send you a couple of beers and a meal for Blue when I figure out how to send money from across the pond! LoL! God Bless! Sam Drake
Well done! H onest question, I am about to do this myself but... you plan to never ever take them off again? I need to think of a system that is not so permanent.
I’m not clear why you opened up the panel soldering connections instead of just cutting both cables short and splicing the two resulting short stubby cables together with a marine grade butt connector. It would have saved you the trouble of modifying the panel, soldering and then trying to re-seal it back up again. Interesting video though. Thx :)
Wow, no end to your talents fella. Its a great watch although i will give you a call rather than tackle myself as i would make a small explosion. Great to watch a true craftsman working on the Caddy Mobile. Atb best matey
Hi allen dude you got skills the eco flow is excellent in fact looking into one for the boat now the panel that amazon good may I suggest cap cover the center with fiber glass cap or flat hat so all is inside wires and all but this van nice you do good work did blue approve
Yes Blue likes it😬. The fridge definitely impressed me. I’ve only used it for a couple short times so I look forward to testing it for multi day trips👌
@@BUSHMANandBLUE excellent job on the solar panels Allen think that you can use to protect panel from peeling from wind ainstall wind blade on top in from it like those use on the windows of car to block wind just suggestion but that abad ass van
Strangely I had an issue with my kayak but it was just the camera mount that was catching which annoyingly I have to take off each time or get some higher roof bars👍
Hi mr. Bushman, So you can do without a roof vent in a insulated van, just opening window a little is enough? Planning to do cooking outside van ofc. Cutting a big hole in the roof makes me nervous, but many builds here have it😬
So I thought I’d try it first and see. I have the two front windows open about an inch just to provide enough air to breathe and a bit of air flow. So far it’s been totally fine and I’ve had pretty much no condensation (it is summer). I have designed in a side vent behind my red cupboard (with electric supply ready) if I feel I need it. I think with two people breathing then would be a good idea.
@@BUSHMANandBLUE yeah in a small van having a side vent in the back feels like the way to go if needed, could even use it to pull external power cord through if needed idk. Thanks for the insight, excited to get started on the build, having a place to crash wherever you go must really open up the world around you! 👍
@@BUSHMANandBLUE I want to see you back out in those hills, with the dog, inspiring me for my next camp. Partial ACL tear at the moment, torn at Styhead Tarn, so grounded!!!
Now that the coldest days are hopefully behind us, how did the van hold up over winter. Is there anything you would do differently or would change now?
When on and ticking over it’s pretty quiet… almost silent. It hums when it’s getting to temperature and making ice cubes but it’s still fairly quiet. It sits next to my bed but if I’m at one location for a few days I’ll put it outside
Just curious. If you hadn’t centered the solar panels but had them tight against one side, would there be enough room on the opposite side to have roof rack storage without obstructing the solar panels?
Short question: i heard that having space between the roof and the solar panel (air gap) should improve performance because of the slight cooling of the panel. Would it be a good idea to have some spacers (like 2mm, plastik) stuck to the solar panel to just lift it of the roof a slight bit, or would that be to much for the glue (as the glue would have to gap the 2mm distance)?
Hi Al, I'm loving the videos as always! Currently converting my own Caddy Maxi and looking to attach a flexible solar panel in a similar manner, but I have a concern which I'm wondering if you had pondered on. Some sources suggest that having some airflow beneath your panel greatly enhances the life of a solar panel as opposed to glueing directly to the roof (i.e., a spacing layer such as corrugated plastic). Glueing to the roof as you have looks much slicker and is my preference, but I'm wondering about the longevity of it, especially when attaching with sikaflex! What are your thoughts on this? Thanks!
I though F it but it does seem there is a way higher chance of failure. It would be a nightmare if it did. Having rigid ones attached neatly to the roof bars would be good. You could make a frame from some L-section aluminium and paint it black for them to sit in. If they fail they can be easily detached and replaced.
@@BUSHMANandBLUE thanks for your response! I had considered rigid panels on the bars, but I'd like that space free in case I need to mount other things. I reckon I'll follow a similar method to you, but I might add a small bit of 4mm polycarbonate twinwall in the center of the panel, just to slightly elevate it and promote some isolated airflow underneath, hopefully preventing hotspots damaging the panel!
@@BUSHMANandBLUE Thanks. I could not find that combination even with a reverse image search based off a screen shot! Also, please include more Blue! We are not just here for the DIY or epic walks!
Once again, extraordinary Renaissance Man! It wouldn’t surprise any of us if you were an artist, musician, singer etc. Do you practice any of the fine arts? Because your van has become a work of art, know how and wonder.
I have 200 watts but the fridge running all the time would definitely drain faster than the solar can fill it but obviously makes it last longer. I also will turn it off over night when cooler to save energy.
It’s all still perfectly stuck down but I feel having some solid panels that are attached to the roof bars might be better that are removable. Then if I use a roof tent I can take them off. It’s always a personal decision.
@@BUSHMANandBLUE Be interested to see your test results, Black roof Black panels, you’ll have a lot of heat there, I did that once and lost around 25% of useage, They normally needed ventilation, but could depend on those panels , Still liking your build though ? Building out a Peugeot Boxer myself 👍
Great information there, giving me confidence to take my own build on. Thanks for the inspiration! The overthinker in me can’t help but wonder about the long-term and how much sweat & cursing would be needed if/when there was an issue with a solar panel which needed to be replaced. Is there some magic goo which could dissolve that sikoflex?
just read up- 512 shrinks less than 221 faster to set, 221 is more elastic and has higher shore hardness, 512 is there camper/caravan sealent. all very similar im sure, ive also seen people mount the flex ones with a layer of correx under to increase airflow and cooling.
Yes there are so many people offering ‘how to’ tips but they all contradict. Because of the flex in the panels and flex in the roof I decided to go with the 221. Seems spot on👍👍👍
@@BUSHMANandBLUE everything you have done on the van has been of the highest quality, and put out some really detailed videos for people to follow so thankyou very much matey
A grand for a fridge? ! I can only assume that they did a mega deal for you. Or sponsored you. That’s absolutely ridiculous for a fridge. Plus, their solar panels are way overpriced. Your Northern credibility is slipping a tad.
ECOFLOW SUMMER SALE - USE LINK AND CODE 'BushmanandBlue' FOR EXTRA 5% OFF (until 24th July in the UK)
EcoFlow Website: uk.ecoflow.com/pages/summer-sale?aff=82?
5% Coupon code for EcoFlow’s website: BushmanandBlue
Over one thousand pounds for a mini fridge freezer that you can barely fit a bag of peas in are mental are you mad ?
The cells and fancy battery/ inverter aren’t cheap either. It’s like anything that’s made for the van market has an extra zero on it.
@@warren5254 for real ! . You can get a 12v compression fridge for half the price of this ecoflow still .
I like your grey carpet side paneling, gives your interior a nice clean look
When using silicon, use a mix of fairy liquid and water in a plastic cup or something similar, and dip your finger in that, makes a good finish and stops everything getting messy. Just a tip for anyone out there 👍
Yes I’ve siliconed loads of kitchens and bathrooms. Always a good tip😉👊
Really good to see someone take such pride in their work. Nice one!
I sikaflexed corrugated plastic first then sikaflexed flexible panel down. It's been on for a few years and still great 👍 🌸
I like a smoke ! Same as you like a beer 😉 watch it young un !
😂 yeah although I only drink probably an average of one a week although I had two last night😂
As a designer, I appreciate innovation and that van is absolutely 💯. I have been living vicariously through your adventure Al and simply love Blue. I did not know that the UK and Scotland had such beautiful spaces. Here in amazing South Africa, I wish we could do these things but the country is too dangerous for women...its not the wildlife...its the people.
Yes and often getting out wild camping alone is to get away from the people for some solitude. Thanks though I’m glad you appreciate our adventures 😬👊
So aesthetically pleasing to watch!
As a female who knows absolutely nothing about things like this, i ll admit i didnt watch it through but gave u a thumbs up anyway. Looking forward to seeing bluey and youey back on the fells again
Whats being female got to do with it? I'm can do all this with a van and I drive a class 1 truck as a job just like the boys. Being female is irrelevant
Great to see the van is up and ready to go can't wait for you and blues new adventures..
Well done, Al. That took some patience. You're like that multi role combat aircraft we do at work. Tornado. Multi role! Cheers, Ozzy.
The workmanship, time, effort and attention detail on that van is absolutely first class. You should be really proud of yourself mate. True professional in every sense. Can’t wait to see where your adventures take you. Keep the great content coming mate 😉
TWO Thumbs UP, Allen.
Yes, FREE electricity if you don't count your time, effort & cost of all the equipment.
Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada U.S.A.
😂 speculate to accumulate 👍
Thank you master
I want to build a ecoflow system in to my VW I'd.3
Also the Glacier fridge.
Your video help alot...
Now the Scandinavian outdoor adventure to Nordic polar cirkle take shape ❤❤
Excellent video again, love the fridge/freezer 👍 my heart skipped a beat when you were testing the wires once the panels were installed 🤣
😂 mine too but luckily it all worked😂
My experience of sikaflex.....its a good job you didn't drop any clangers or you'd be stuck to the roof. Excellent video as per. 😊
It’s definitely a great adhesive and thus far has bonded really well👌
You have perfect roof racks for solid solar panels! You can't use them anyway, if you wish to gain some solar energy from the roof
You need to be careful with the type of silicone because some will dissolve the wire.
great instructional video, thank you for sharing. I attached my 315W semi flexible solar panel to my Kia Carnival with Twin-wall polycarbonate strips using VHB (Very High Bond) Tape (as in the Vented Gap Kit) and I also used Gorilla Tape in between each cell around the sides from the top of the panel to the car surface, as my roof has ribs, it's not a flat surface. I never had any problems through marine force winds and hale storms, and road trains passing me on the highway etc. in Western Australia, it was when a skip bin truck operator emptied his rubbish on my car and the glass that was inside the rubbish bag dented the roof in a few places, I was so thankful I followed the manufacturers recommendations as the solar panel had to be removed to allow the crash repairer to repaint the whole roof of the car. Thankfully the VHB and gorilla tapes were so easy to uninstall, now I can reuse my solar panel on my 2nd home on wheels I'm building out in the New Year. The solar panel company advised MS Polymer (i.e. Fix15) and Sikaflex (Polyurethane adhesive) are unsuitable as it is unlikely both the panel and surface will expand and contract at the same rate, therefore an adhesive with some ‘give’ will be required to absorb the difference. The recommended adhesive products are: VHB (Very High Bond) double sided tape, Silicone based adhesives (i.e. SG20, Fix8) or Bi-adhesive backing. An excellent job on installation though, you're very talented, hopefully you'll never need to remove yours.
Thank you. Interesting! Mine have stuck really well and haven’t perished at all. Taking them off would be a nightmare 😂
@@BUSHMANandBLUE yes it would be, hopefully you'll never have to...lol. I found after having that accident, I will always do it the same way, if I don't there's no warranty on my $700 solar panel as I'm not following the manufacturer's directions, plus if I needed to get to the roof ever again I can remove it easily, it's also less messy using vhb tape, that stuff is used to hold skyscrapers together and caravans, they don't use nuts and bolts anymore due to the ease of use of the tape and the fact it holds forever. As my vehicles are always brand new, I didn't want to cut any holes in the roof...lol...the auto electrician wired it in using the existing grommets already in the van for the other electrical cords coming in from the rear barn door area.
The best advice ever. "use your body while it still works well! the same advice I received from my father when he was in his 90s". And yeah, thank you for the informative video :)
It’s very true. Your body health can change in an instant 👍👍👍
hi allen yr camper is absolutely brilliant job y done love yr fridge a need 2 get one alive it so going out tomorrow 2 get one for my next trip it is great job y done 👍👍give blue a hug
hi allen wee went down yorckshire dales and wee had the day from hell but still smiling and great 2 the beautiful blue 👍👍
That is a great fridge and the stealth black on black looks great.
love that fridge, it costs loads, i guess i would go for a cheaper version! smashing job on the van
I just love your problem solving! Cool idea with the wood wedges! Ill use that on another curvy project!
My brain always will find a solution to anything in life. I enjoy the process😬
Hi Bushman! I'm choosing solar panel for my Delta mini, thanks a lot for this vid! Firstly Im was warried about fact that you can damage one panel (when putting it into glue moment), but I've seen few videos (about exactly this flexible panel) and can say that ~170 watts is normal results for your conditions! And of cause my heart is down when there is no "beep" on checking moment.
Chees from Ukrane 💙💛 and sorry for my English writing. I think is good panel for placing it into balcony of my flat, then I was prepared for new blackouts at winter and at least can charge my phones and notebook!
Great panels but one thing to consider. Once glued down they will be extremely difficult to get off again if they fail and they do fail! You might be better attaching a ridged one to a roof rack which can be taken off and replaced if it breaks. Also you could take it off when you are not using it. Just a thought👍👍👍
@@BUSHMANandBLUE I'm considering to just tie down panel with few ropes, luckily it has holes for it 😎
@@BUSHMANandBLUEyes any severe weather with hail or impact damage from derbis could damage them. A better way to mount them is riv nuts in the six mounting holes so u just need to glue the front edges down.
Well Al, what can one say? Your bushmobile is looking good, but more importantly, it does what it says on the tin, and that is being a home from home. Well done there. All you now need is a gee-tar so that other campers can sit and listen to your dulcet Yorkshire tones. You've made quite the dream real, and I'm sure you'll have inspired others to work on their dreams, too. Now, sell your house and away ye go!
He has a guitar😂😂😂
😂 I do play guitar but I’m not one for performing at all. 😂
Van is looking fantastic bud,well done and enjoy!
thanks for the great video! we have just purchased our first camper van and we are trying to figure out the best way to power it up. We purchased a. bluetti ac180 1800w power bank along with a 200w portable panel and we are hoping it can power our mini fridge and a fan. i was also looking into the flexible panels but i'm worried bc we get really hot weather here in socal and i'm worried about the longevity of it, i might try to attach a glass panel but use your hook up design. we just want something that's easy to set up and function!
You can't beat a bit of free power 🌞, nice neat job as always. off-grid sorted 👍. Let the adventures begin.
It’s all working well😉👍
Great idea. I am going to put these panles on my rooftop tent
Nice and neat work! Just wondering what silicon was used and where to get that plastic cup (for wires going into van). Thanks!
How are the black panels holding up on the black roof? Should have some temperature damage already after one summer.
hi allen just love yr camper you done a great job give blue a big hug miss him 👍👍
Yes we’ve just been out running together not camping for a few weeks🥰
Afternoon Al…..nice neat job that, all the extra care in fitting now, pays off later ….👍👌🇮🇲.
Always mate😉👊
This is not construction it is differant and i wont dog you out ....i like your pride ......my opinon pannels need air flow like on a house roof ......Time will tell
Good job there Al - as long as the blind man on his horse is riding past at midnight that is 🤣😂😁 rack 'o 't eye and twist 'o 't gob was a common phrase when I was serving my time! (bricklaying that is, not prison!) BTW you can get really handy cable tie mounts with 3M tape on the back. We use them at work and you can get UV resistant ones - just peel off and stick on the roof and then you could cable tie those cables on the roof. They are really low profile and won't be noticeable.
Any other type of cable and I may be having words about your bend radius though young man!
Cheers, Matt
😂😂😂. Interesting with the cable mounts. I’ll use them in my next van which would probably be a crafter in about 10 years.
Hi! Loved your video. I miss Blue.
As usual, ‘ top job’ with the panels, thank goodness those wires you tested worked, once you put the machine on the correct thingy Me jig 🤣🤣🤣 The fridge/freezer is super duper!! 😊
Evening, are these films shown out of sequence, as I am certain I saw an internal shot showing the internal paneling of the van removed. Still a great video. You need to get a bespoke tool belt made for Blu. That wire stripping tool, is very similar to a tool I use for making antenna cables (Radio Ham) clamp it around the cable and all the cores are cut to the right length in seconds, even does satellite cables.
Yes I’ve bunched together each section but filmed over different days depending on what I was working on👍
Fridge is way better on gas. You can keep it going for weeks. A bigger van like a Trigano Tribute is better for off grid in my opinion.
Great job pal, that fridge is a belter piece of kit 👌👌
It definitely impressed me. Looking forward to using it more at a couple of van festivals😬
Grab an extra foldable 220 watt bi-facial to deploy and you'd be covered.
Hello. Thanks for this as I’m about to do the same thing. Just one Q: why didn’t you get a single 200w panel rather than 2 x 100w? It would’ve made installing it a lot easier as you could’ve avoided all that curve shenanigan...
You look as though you are thoroughly enjoying yourself 🎉 and doing such an excellent job i would not be surprised if, in a few months, you did not do it all again in a larger van 😂 specially now you have found so many ways to improve your van ❤❤❤❤❤
In all honesty I’m excited to start another project. I just need to win the lottery 😂
Brilliant video (Silly price for that fridge though...!!! Jeez) but.... no no no no no, 17:53 the way you put the plyers down on that beautiful new solar panel.... my heart sank!
Anyway, Ive got another flexible panel going in next week on my girl so your vid really helped with some ideas. thanks
😂😂😂 they are pretty hardy
@@BUSHMANandBLUE As I found out today when my new flexy panel arrived. I stand corrected. Your video has helped with the curve on the front on my van, Thanks
You should be quite proud of your work on the van!
I don't think you realize the positive messages you send during your videos. I can relax while I watch your harsh weather camping, especially in Snow, while it's currently so hot outside!
I plan to send you a couple of beers and a meal for Blue when I figure out how to send money from across the pond! LoL! God Bless! Sam Drake
I got you a few beers just now! Share something with Blue! Sam Drake from the US!!!
Thank you so much Sam! I always hope to inspire others to enjoy their lives just that but more. Spreading the love and happiness👍👍👍
Get on my Alpicool fridge is class, but that's another level, bud.
Yes it definitely seems next level. I’ve an old 12v cooler to sell now😂
Excellent job mate 👍
Ótima idéia 😎👍🏼
Estou pensando em fazer algo parecido, mas tenho um sedan. 😅 Vou pensar em uma forma de instalar um painel solar.
Yes another tremendous video excellent work. Geared up now to really hit the road. Take Care. Cheers. B. K
Yes it should definitely help😬
not sure if they are about but a very small fan for wild power on top changing the battery's would be good too when its cloudy , enjoyed your video 😎
Yes I’ve seen them. Might look in to one👊
@@BUSHMANandBLUE looking forward to seeing u fit one or not but lest your always have wind oops lol well driving
Thank you for an absolutely awesome video 🎉🎉😊
What grey paste are you using to seal the connector cavity of the solar panel? Thanks, awesome video!
He said it was just silicone sealant...that's why he said he may never be able to remove it again....but it can be removed....
You are great! Like very much you and your videos even without understanding all the talking, because my english is poor.
Well I’m glad you still appreciate it even with my Yorkshire accent 😂👍
@@BUSHMANandBLUE On the contrary, I started to pronounce like you. 😅
Well done! H
onest question, I am about to do this myself but... you plan to never ever take them off again?
I need to think of a system that is not so permanent.
Just get a ridged solar panel and mount it to a roof rack👍
Love that fridge
Ayup Al, what days will you be at CamperJam this weekend? Me and the Mrs are going and be amazing to meet you.
Thursday to Sunday👊. Definitely come say hi
@BUSHMANandBLUE awesome mate, we're coming on Sunday and I'll be wearing one of your green woodland hoodies, repping the merch! See ya then!
Awesome 👌. See you there.
Another job well done B & B Nice one mate 🙂
Great 👌 Alan fantastic Ur vans mint mate
I'm thinking of getting similar ones for my van - nice video, subscribed!
I’m not clear why you opened up the panel soldering connections instead of just cutting both cables short and splicing the two resulting short stubby cables together with a marine grade butt connector. It would have saved you the trouble of modifying the panel, soldering and then trying to re-seal it back up again.
Interesting video though. Thx :)
This was by far the neatest way
Van is coming good Al👍
Wow, no end to your talents fella. Its a great watch although i will give you a call rather than tackle myself as i would make a small explosion. Great to watch a true craftsman working on the Caddy Mobile. Atb best matey
😂 there is always more satisfaction doing things yourself (safely😂😂😂)
Totally engrossing Al 🙂
I'm at 14:56 and I'm thinking, test the bloody panels before you start glueing them down and cutting wires. Yes, yes.
😂yes always worth testing first
Hi allen dude you got skills the eco flow is excellent in fact looking into one for the boat now the panel that amazon good may I suggest cap cover the center with fiber glass cap or flat hat so all is inside wires and all but this van nice you do good work did blue approve
Yes Blue likes it😬. The fridge definitely impressed me. I’ve only used it for a couple short times so I look forward to testing it for multi day trips👌
@@BUSHMANandBLUE excellent job on the solar panels Allen think that you can use to protect panel from peeling from wind ainstall wind blade on top in from it like those use on the windows of car to block wind just suggestion but that abad ass van
any issues with your kayak on the roof bars. that domed connector mount won't rub against the kayak?
Strangely I had an issue with my kayak but it was just the camera mount that was catching which annoyingly I have to take off each time or get some higher roof bars👍
Hi mr. Bushman, So you can do without a roof vent in a insulated van, just opening window a little is enough? Planning to do cooking outside van ofc. Cutting a big hole in the roof makes me nervous, but many builds here have it😬
So I thought I’d try it first and see. I have the two front windows open about an inch just to provide enough air to breathe and a bit of air flow. So far it’s been totally fine and I’ve had pretty much no condensation (it is summer). I have designed in a side vent behind my red cupboard (with electric supply ready) if I feel I need it. I think with two people breathing then would be a good idea.
@@BUSHMANandBLUE yeah in a small van having a side vent in the back feels like the way to go if needed, could even use it to pull external power cord through if needed idk. Thanks for the insight, excited to get started on the build, having a place to crash wherever you go must really open up the world around you! 👍
I know this pays the bills, or gets you free stuff, but come on, where’s the dog? You know you’re just his side kick!! 😂😂
I wish it did pay the bills!
@@BUSHMANandBLUE I want to see you back out in those hills, with the dog, inspiring me for my next camp. Partial ACL tear at the moment, torn at Styhead Tarn, so grounded!!!
@@BUSHMANandBLUE when you going to finish that Yurt?
@@BUSHMANandBLUE still love you❤️❤️
Gutted mate but injury’s happen. You’ll be back at it soon👊
Look wicked Al😮
Now that the coldest days are hopefully behind us, how did the van hold up over winter. Is there anything you would do differently or would change now?
Not as yet although I might put on a roof tent so the solar won’t work🤷🏻♂️
@@BUSHMANandBLUE I’ve seen hard top roof tents with solar panels attached. Seems like having a roof tent doesn’t exclude solar.
How quiet is the fridge at night, and where are you going to put it so it makes room for your bed?
More importantly where is Blu going to sleep 🤨
When on and ticking over it’s pretty quiet… almost silent. It hums when it’s getting to temperature and making ice cubes but it’s still fairly quiet. It sits next to my bed but if I’m at one location for a few days I’ll put it outside
Just curious. If you hadn’t centered the solar panels but had them tight against one side, would there be enough room on the opposite side to have roof rack storage without obstructing the solar panels?
No definitely not. You can buy some slimmer panels?
Short question: i heard that having space between the roof and the solar panel (air gap) should improve performance because of the slight cooling of the panel.
Would it be a good idea to have some spacers (like 2mm, plastik) stuck to the solar panel to just lift it of the roof a slight bit, or would that be to much for the glue (as the glue would have to gap the 2mm distance)?
I think it’s true and I risked sticking it directly. It’s more chance of failing this way
Hi Al, I'm loving the videos as always! Currently converting my own Caddy Maxi and looking to attach a flexible solar panel in a similar manner, but I have a concern which I'm wondering if you had pondered on.
Some sources suggest that having some airflow beneath your panel greatly enhances the life of a solar panel as opposed to glueing directly to the roof (i.e., a spacing layer such as corrugated plastic). Glueing to the roof as you have looks much slicker and is my preference, but I'm wondering about the longevity of it, especially when attaching with sikaflex! What are your thoughts on this?
Thanks!
I though F it but it does seem there is a way higher chance of failure. It would be a nightmare if it did. Having rigid ones attached neatly to the roof bars would be good. You could make a frame from some L-section aluminium and paint it black for them to sit in. If they fail they can be easily detached and replaced.
@@BUSHMANandBLUE thanks for your response! I had considered rigid panels on the bars, but I'd like that space free in case I need to mount other things.
I reckon I'll follow a similar method to you, but I might add a small bit of 4mm polycarbonate twinwall in the center of the panel, just to slightly elevate it and promote some isolated airflow underneath, hopefully preventing hotspots damaging the panel!
All I want to see is how people route the wires without pinching them
Carefully but there is always a way
Great video !
Do you find you get much heat transfer by sticking them direct to the roof ?
They seem fine thus far but I know that often they can fail.
Where did you get that 12V switch panel from (the one besides the door in the first few minutes). Also where is Blue? This video needs more dog.
It’s from Amazon I think but I bought a variety of coloured switches and changed some out (rather than just blue)
@@BUSHMANandBLUE Thanks. I could not find that combination even with a reverse image search based off a screen shot!
Also, please include more Blue! We are not just here for the DIY or epic walks!
Once again, extraordinary Renaissance Man! It wouldn’t surprise any of us if you were an artist, musician, singer etc. Do you practice any of the fine arts? Because your van has become a work of art, know how and wonder.
😂 I can sing like a bird and paint a whole house😂. I’m actually pretty arty 😉
8 studs welded to roof would've made this a 10 minute job.
did you do a video on you bed/seat... cant find it if you did
Not yet but what I’ve done is brilliant☺️👌
its only 100 watts though is that enough to sustain the fridge? I think you would need at least double that, or am i mistaken?
I have 200 watts but the fridge running all the time would definitely drain faster than the solar can fill it but obviously makes it last longer. I also will turn it off over night when cooler to save energy.
I can't take anyone seriously that would use a wood bit to drill a hole in metal
😂
So it has been a year since you did this. As I am wanting to do something similar, how is the panel installation holding up?
It’s all still perfectly stuck down but I feel having some solid panels that are attached to the roof bars might be better that are removable. Then if I use a roof tent I can take them off. It’s always a personal decision.
Vans coming on sweet 👍
Out of interest did you leave a gap under those panels?
No I just bonded them flat down. I’ve read varied reviews so did what mechanically and aesthetically works best 👍
@@BUSHMANandBLUE Be interested to see your test results, Black roof Black panels, you’ll have a lot of heat there, I did that once and lost around 25% of useage, They normally needed ventilation, but could depend on those panels ,
Still liking your build though ?
Building out a Peugeot Boxer myself 👍
They seem fine and will give 170 watts no problem and they are not obviously angled to the sun. I’ll do a review in a year😉
@@BUSHMANandBLUE Sweet 👍
Great information there, giving me confidence to take my own build on. Thanks for the inspiration! The overthinker in me can’t help but wonder about the long-term and how much sweat & cursing would be needed if/when there was an issue with a solar panel which needed to be replaced. Is there some magic goo which could dissolve that sikoflex?
Great video, love the van😂
Hi al, did you use sikaflex 221 for any reason, ive seen 512 used, not sure the difference, never used the stuff?
just read up- 512 shrinks less than 221 faster to set, 221 is more elastic and has higher shore hardness, 512 is there camper/caravan sealent. all very similar im sure, ive also seen people mount the flex ones with a layer of correx under to increase airflow and cooling.
Yes there are so many people offering ‘how to’ tips but they all contradict. Because of the flex in the panels and flex in the roof I decided to go with the 221. Seems spot on👍👍👍
@@BUSHMANandBLUE everything you have done on the van has been of the highest quality, and put out some really detailed videos for people to follow so thankyou very much matey
You are cool
Where is the fridge going to be stored
I’ve loads of space next to my bed but if parked up it can go outside👌
@@BUSHMANandBLUE nice James
Hi, what is this called? 28:40
Boom
Not for me. More features, more to breakdown.
That’s a pricey fridge/freezer. Great features but way out of my budget
It definitely costs but it definitely is the most advanced out there. 👌👍
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A grand for a fridge? ! I can only assume that they did a mega deal for you. Or sponsored you. That’s absolutely ridiculous for a fridge. Plus, their solar panels are way overpriced. Your Northern credibility is slipping a tad.
It is top quality though mate. Just used it for 4 days at a festival and it was perfect👌