Great van mate. Love the way you've kept it simple. So many people filling there vans with way too much stuff. Defeats the reason really for why they are doing it. It's not about what's in the van it's what the van affords you to do, like freedom, travel explore etc. I like the idea of rechargeable lights and fans to avoid all them wires. Enjoy life, its great.
at 3:47 can you show exactly where not to screw into ahaha? I'm converting my hiace and can't get a decent look underneath. Feel like im stabbing in the dark lol
I like the concept of the metal frame for bed but I have another idea that I'm conforming to make the platform even better. I don't know how to explain it in detail but it's 2 layered 4 part I think
Thanks mate! I reckon the tubes would be strong enough, but I’d be concerned about the plastic joiners. Being out in the sun theyll probably get brittle
Hey, great build Wondering for your kitchen setup behind the seats. Is it easily removable to allow access for changing the oil filter and fold back of the chairs to gain access to the engine. Ideally I want to do the same as yourself in my 2006 haice but hesitant due to the oil filter access point and engine access Thanks 🙏
Thanks mate! Yeah, if you look back at the floorboard installation you'll see ive left a cutout for the access panel on the floor. Which can then be accessed through the two cupboard doors under the sink. Theres no backing on the cupboards either, so everything is accessible from the front as well. I had a major service done after the build, so it's all suitable. I made all of my measurements with the engine bay open (passenger seat access). That way you know how much space you need to leave. Your newer model will obvs be different, so just take all precautions before you start.
Hi just wondering how you get to the engine under the front seat with the cupboards behind it, as the seat needs to be lifted up to get to it? I have a 1999 hiace commuter and I'm trying to figure this out
Hey mate I don’t suppose you have the measurements for that frame? I have exactly the same van and want to save myself a bit of time…happy to ping you some cash! Cheers
I'm curious how the van is to use in different weather conditions with so little insulation. We're about to insulate our HiAce and we're also concerned about losing internal space and weight, but also being able to keep out the heat during hot summer days, or keeping the heat in on cool spring or fall nights. How do you find this level of insulation for livability?
From what I’ve read, from people with way more understanding of thermodynamics than me; insulation only really works to a degree. Basically, it will keep the heat out to a point - then once the van is hot it will keep that heat in - longer than it would if there was no insulation at all. I experienced this in FNQ where every day was around 35c and full sun. The nights stayed hot, and so did the van. Avoid leaving the van closed up in the sun. Shade is better than insulation, in this case. I didn’t test any really cold conditions. I guess the coldest I got was around cradle mountain area in Tas, early summer - still pretty cold at night. Never had a problem with being cold, but I had a really good blanket and extra layers to sleep in if needed. I imagine insulation would help more in cold conditions.
@@EternalJourneys Thanks so much for replying. Getting some insight from actual owners of one of these conversions is invaluable. We may not stress as much about insulation and prioritize not adding any thickness, or at least as little as possible, to the walls instead.
Like your design approach, keep it simple, make it safe, quiet, easy to maintain, non-toxic and lightweight! Quick Q, are you using a solar blanket or a portable panel? Don’t see any roof mounted panels. Also, if you know of a better small vent system, would love to know. I installed a marine style solar powered battery operated vent on mine, but it isn’t powerful enough either. Great vid! 🐨🌷
Hey Lucy, glad you enjoyed the vid! I started out with a solar blanket but it wasn’t really sufficient. I’ve recently installed a proper panel on the roof. It’s just an eBay cheapie, but works well enough for my needs. As far as vents go, I haven’t really done much research. Mine is fine most of the time. It was only in North Queensland when it started warming up, that I struggled a bit. And I don’t really think a bigger vent would’ve made much difference.
Hey thanks Steve, glad you enjoyed. The Masonite is held up using adhesive Velcro. Not ideal, but in combination with the felt carpet it has stayed well. Probabaly would’ve been better to drill holes to match those on the walls, then get some press plugs or similar to hold it. Hope that makes sense haha
I swear, is my HiAce the only one who’s seat has to flip backwards to get to the engine? I see these builds all the time and it makes me wonder. I can’t build anything behind my passenger seat, but at least I got the high top so I can stand up.
It been a while, but im pretty sure mine flipped backwards as well. But if you fold the backrest forwards then lift the seat - it doesnt actually need that much room behind.
Hey thanks! Definitely easier with aluminium. But more expensive. I don’t have the costings anymore but I remember it was around $200AUD for the bed frame.
Depends where you're going man. Definitely worthwhile if you're heading somewhere wintery cold (im in Tas atm). There's a bit of debate about whether insulation is useful in the heat. The argument being; that once the van gets hot, the insulation actually keeps it hot longer. Of course, if you've got aircon, then its probably going to benefit. You'll def want an air vent/fans.
Hi ty im a new subscriber .if i dont have the tools , is it better to hire or buy a van kitted out ? I like the idea of personalizing it but on a practical level im still figuring out the best way . I noticed the toyato hiace is 1999 is that the most reliable year for old vans ?
Hey thanks so much! It really depends on your situation. I had no tools and no space to work. So I had to borrow tools and do the work in the street mostly. So it took a lot longer because of all that. But the van is now just the way I want it. You could also consider getting someone to fit out the van for you. My Hiace is 1997. They are all quite reliable, depending on how many kilometres they’ve driven. Usually you want the older models to be less than 300,000km. Although Diesel engines generally last longer. Whatever you do, make sure you get a mechanic check done on the van before you buy. That way you know what you’re getting! Hope that helps 🙏🏼
Hi Pedro, I used liquid nails. Which is a type of adhesive. Very strong. Then there were a few screws that went all the way through the floorboard and the floor frame, into the metal. To ensure everything stayed in place. Make sense?
Great van mate. Love the way you've kept it simple. So many people filling there vans with way too much stuff. Defeats the reason really for why they are doing it. It's not about what's in the van it's what the van affords you to do, like freedom, travel explore etc.
I like the idea of rechargeable lights and fans to avoid all them wires. Enjoy life, its great.
Thanks David. Absolutely agree. Priorities on comfort and simplicity. Have a great day!
at 3:47 can you show exactly where not to screw into ahaha? I'm converting my hiace and can't get a decent look underneath. Feel like im stabbing in the dark lol
Very clever to keep everything lightweight and simple.
Thanks
One of my most favorite builds I have seen!
Love the aluminium bed framing, what a great idea!
Thanks mate! Worked at treat
What is the brand of the bull bar , thanks live your work
Nice fit out. Simple and effective. Enjoy your travels!!
Cheers mate!
Thanks for watching! 🙏🏼
I like the concept of the metal frame for bed but I have another idea that I'm conforming to make the platform even better. I don't know how to explain it in detail but it's 2 layered 4 part I think
Awesome job bro. Van is mint !
@Hamza Jackson no one cares.
Oh thanks mate. Cheers for watching 🙌🏼
Thank you for taking e time to make this video. I am planning my own build and your video hit the spot!
Thanks mate. Happy travels! 🙏🏼
How many 2.4m pieces of wood and foilboard do i need for the flooring roughly? Nice simple guide :)
Thank you so much this is a really really helpful video we’ve got lots of brilliant ideas thank you
Hey man! Great video. Where did you source your silent guard underlay from? Thanks I’m advance!
Firstly ..great job .. this aluminium tubey stuff .. ya reckon its good enough furr roof rack sorta setup thingy ..😍😎😁pip pips
Thanks mate! I reckon the tubes would be strong enough, but I’d be concerned about the plastic joiners. Being out in the sun theyll probably get brittle
@@EternalJourneys strooth ..that was quick ..i.ll give it some more thought .. thanks 😁happy trails and pip pips
Hey, great build
Wondering for your kitchen setup behind the seats. Is it easily removable to allow access for changing the oil filter and fold back of the chairs to gain access to the engine. Ideally I want to do the same as yourself in my 2006 haice but hesitant due to the oil filter access point and engine access
Thanks 🙏
Thanks mate! Yeah, if you look back at the floorboard installation you'll see ive left a cutout for the access panel on the floor. Which can then be accessed through the two cupboard doors under the sink. Theres no backing on the cupboards either, so everything is accessible from the front as well. I had a major service done after the build, so it's all suitable. I made all of my measurements with the engine bay open (passenger seat access). That way you know how much space you need to leave. Your newer model will obvs be different, so just take all precautions before you start.
👍12Big thumb up for this beautiful sharing. Great design and set up. Love your channel. Take care and see you later.
12 thumbs! That’s very generous, thank you! Thanks for watching 🙏🏼
I liked the Aluminium framing idea🤓👍🏼
Thanks mate. Has held up perfectly 👌🏽
Looks awesome
Hi just wondering how you get to the engine under the front seat with the cupboards behind it, as the seat needs to be lifted up to get to it? I have a 1999 hiace commuter and I'm trying to figure this out
Hey sorry I didn't see this. Yes, I intentionally left enough space to lift the seat.
Very nice 👍🏻👍🏻
Excellent build!! Where did you get the front bumper?
Thanks mate! Bumper was already there from previous owner. That was what caught my attention when we were looking in the first place :)
Great vid bro
Hey great video thanks for sharing! Just wondering what you used for the ceiling? Is it fabric? Thanks!
Yep, it’s curtain fabric :)
Hi can you explain how to do the sides and the roof, the joints between them. Thanks
Hi, can you go into a little more detail? I’m not quite sure what you mean.
Hey mate I don’t suppose you have the measurements for that frame? I have exactly the same van and want to save myself a bit of time…happy to ping you some cash! Cheers
I'm curious how the van is to use in different weather conditions with so little insulation. We're about to insulate our HiAce and we're also concerned about losing internal space and weight, but also being able to keep out the heat during hot summer days, or keeping the heat in on cool spring or fall nights. How do you find this level of insulation for livability?
From what I’ve read, from people with way more understanding of thermodynamics than me; insulation only really works to a degree. Basically, it will keep the heat out to a point - then once the van is hot it will keep that heat in - longer than it would if there was no insulation at all. I experienced this in FNQ where every day was around 35c and full sun. The nights stayed hot, and so did the van. Avoid leaving the van closed up in the sun. Shade is better than insulation, in this case.
I didn’t test any really cold conditions. I guess the coldest I got was around cradle mountain area in Tas, early summer - still pretty cold at night. Never had a problem with being cold, but I had a really good blanket and extra layers to sleep in if needed. I imagine insulation would help more in cold conditions.
@@EternalJourneys Thanks so much for replying. Getting some insight from actual owners of one of these conversions is invaluable. We may not stress as much about insulation and prioritize not adding any thickness, or at least as little as possible, to the walls instead.
Like your design approach, keep it simple, make it safe, quiet, easy to maintain, non-toxic and lightweight! Quick Q, are you using a solar blanket or a portable panel? Don’t see any roof mounted panels. Also, if you know of a better small vent system, would love to know. I installed a marine style solar powered battery operated vent on mine, but it isn’t powerful enough either. Great vid! 🐨🌷
Hey Lucy, glad you enjoyed the vid!
I started out with a solar blanket but it wasn’t really sufficient. I’ve recently installed a proper panel on the roof. It’s just an eBay cheapie, but works well enough for my needs. As far as vents go, I haven’t really done much research. Mine is fine most of the time. It was only in North Queensland when it started warming up, that I struggled a bit. And I don’t really think a bigger vent would’ve made much difference.
Great tutorial - very informative.
Thanks for sharing.
Was so impressed, I liked and subbed.
Cheers
Thanks mate! Glad it was helpful. Update coming soon! 🙏🏼
hey there. super super helpful video!! How long did it take you start to finish?
Hi! Thanks so much :)
It was done slowly over a few months. So, hard to gauge really!
i got some idea. enjoyed watching...
Looks badass !! Thanks mate.
No worries mate! Hahaha
Hope you’re doing well x x
What kind of wood you used for the floor frame?
Hey, I used pine ply-board and cut it into strips. Cheap
@@EternalJourneys thanks love your video. Just wondering what thickness ply and insulation sheeting did you use for the subfloor? Cheers
Hey mate, how is the Earthwool insulation in the summer dose is work well to keep the heat out? Thanks for the great video👌
how did you attach the bed frame to the van? or does it just sit tight?
hi, where did you buy the sound guard from?
eBay
Might be a link in description
Thanks for the vid man, super easy to follow and the links are great. Just wondering the best way to attach the masonite walls over the windows?
Hey thanks Steve, glad you enjoyed. The Masonite is held up using adhesive Velcro. Not ideal, but in combination with the felt carpet it has stayed well. Probabaly would’ve been better to drill holes to match those on the walls, then get some press plugs or similar to hold it. Hope that makes sense haha
I swear, is my HiAce the only one who’s seat has to flip backwards to get to the engine? I see these builds all the time and it makes me wonder. I can’t build anything behind my passenger seat, but at least I got the high top so I can stand up.
It been a while, but im pretty sure mine flipped backwards as well. But if you fold the backrest forwards then lift the seat - it doesnt actually need that much room behind.
@@EternalJourneys I honestly didnt know the seat could fold that way too, never had a reason to try😅
I am also traveling by remodeling a Hiace van.
Oh that’s great. Where are you travelling?
In Japan, the main place is Hokkaido.
@@TABISURU2019 Very cool. I was in Hokkaido in 2019. I want to go back to Japan soon. Hopefully!
I see! Have a nice trip back to Japan!
Great quality video :)
Thanks for watching, mate
Nice, this is what I’m after instead of a fancy build…
Glad you like it!! Thanks
Hi, very good job! How much would it cost to build a bed frame with alluminium vs with wood? And is it more or less complicated? Thank you!
Hey thanks!
Definitely easier with aluminium. But more expensive. I don’t have the costings anymore but I remember it was around $200AUD for the bed frame.
Is it 100% necessary to insulate the floor and walls? I also live in Australia (syd)
Depends where you're going man. Definitely worthwhile if you're heading somewhere wintery cold (im in Tas atm). There's a bit of debate about whether insulation is useful in the heat. The argument being; that once the van gets hot, the insulation actually keeps it hot longer. Of course, if you've got aircon, then its probably going to benefit. You'll def want an air vent/fans.
Hi ty im a new subscriber .if i dont have the tools , is it better to hire or buy a van kitted out ? I like the idea of personalizing it but on a practical level im still figuring out the best way . I noticed the toyato hiace is 1999 is that the most reliable year for old vans ?
Hey thanks so much!
It really depends on your situation. I had no tools and no space to work. So I had to borrow tools and do the work in the street mostly. So it took a lot longer because of all that. But the van is now just the way I want it. You could also consider getting someone to fit out the van for you. My Hiace is 1997.
They are all quite reliable, depending on how many kilometres they’ve driven. Usually you want the older models to be less than 300,000km. Although Diesel engines generally last longer. Whatever you do, make sure you get a mechanic check done on the van before you buy. That way you know what you’re getting! Hope that helps 🙏🏼
Hi. How did you attach the floor frame to the van? Thanks
Hi Pedro, I used liquid nails. Which is a type of adhesive. Very strong. Then there were a few screws that went all the way through the floorboard and the floor frame, into the metal. To ensure everything stayed in place. Make sense?
@@EternalJourneys hi mate! Just wondering. You screwed to the metal as well? Is that not going to cause rust?
@@Adrian-sv1mo I only put a few screws into the metal. Then climb under the van, clean around it and spray with rust-stop paint.
hey mate, what carpet did use use for the walls?
Hey mate, it’s just acrylic felt. Couldn’t find car carpet in light colours in Australia
👌 so good man!!
Bonza
Nice..! :)
i cant follow this.
Sorry to hear that, mr duck. Need help?
@@EternalJourneys what state you in?
@@crazyduck1254 Bali ;)
Poor bloke needs to buy a drill