If I reply to your comment. Make sure my name is highlighted and has a tick next to it. There is a spambot out there claiming to be me, leaving comments about Whatsapp and Bitcoin. I'm certain no one here would fall for it, but just in case.
I used to work for a company that made surveillance vehicles, They had a pneumatic mast with a PTZ camera attached, Part of the conversion was jigsawing an 8" hole in the roof of brand new cars to allow the mast fitment...............Very satisfying :-)
For me the best bit of this video was the way Tom parked the van properly in the diagonal lines in the completely empty car park at the end. Just shows how committed to attention to detail and perfection he is. The whole video series has been superb to watch, and I'm in awe of the skills and ingenuity shown!
Pure genius! Necessity truly is the mother of invention. Do make sure you have the best immobilizer and alarm system. You are ready for a round the world trip. Happy Motoring!
Tom, if you ever decide to have a longer break from photography, you can always open your own van conversion business. First client guaranteed here. On a serious note, you have done a fantastic job with the van. Looking forward to see it in your future videos.
I hope you feel a sense of satisfaction with your accomplishment! I wonder if, like a photographer editing a raw file, a tinkerer may never be 100% happy with the final result? It was a pleasure to watch the process, thank you for sharing!
Brilliant idea with the tilt of the solar panel. As you know from your F4 trip, where I live in the PNW and as your home is, chasing the sun, especially when it's low in the sky during winter is crucial for capturing the sun's energy. Since I'm older, and more prone to forget obvious things, I'd want a band on the steering wheel, hang tag on the rear view mirror, or some other way to remind me that the panel is tilted before heading off. Don't laugh, your day will come youngster!
Hi Tom, little tip for you, once you drill a hole in a waterproof junction box, its unlikely to be waterproof especially on the roof of your van while your travelling in driving rain. To make sure it doesn't become an issue, pop down to your local branch of Screwfix and purchase a tube of Raytech Transparent Di-Electric Gel, whip the lid off your box, fill with this stuff, water will never get anywhere near your electrics.... simples :)
This is great, Thomas! I have a suggestion, change those roof top nuts to security nuts so you don't have nefarious people stealing the roof box and other parts.... You may want to sheet metal tap screw the junction box to the roof also so it won't loosen due to vibration and a water gap be made. Great ideas! Great work!!!! Cheers, Thomas!
Cut a grove down the center of one of the joined panel hinges, use a bolt and wingnut, and you'll have an infinitely adjustable panel tilt! E viola! Also, before you build in storage behind the passenger seat consider the charm of using a temporary lucite box for whatever, SO that you can always move it to then throw in a "last mile" transport solution in the still free space... if not an actually bike. Awesome build, really enjoyed the series.
Great video. Quick tip for you from an engineer... you’ve drilled into the solar panel and fitted hinges. It may not look like it as you will have tightened the nuts down but there is now a very small entry point for water. Get some 1mm or 2mm thick rubber sheet, cut down to size, and clamp between hinge and panel. This will stop any water getting in
really enjoyable series. Far too many builds are full on campers for 2-3 people+ usually a cat or a dog, entertainment systems inside and out, full kitchens, king size beds, showers and what not to spend long times in. It's refreshing to see a "one man" camper that's used for a few days in a row to do some photography. It's far more the style I'd have and need if I were to do something like this. And believe me, I've been looking at second hand vans and suv's for a bit since this series started.
You're fortunate to get a 2002 model in great condition. Here in Canada a 2002 anything is almost guaranteed to have serious salt corrosion issues. You've done a beautiful job. CONGRATS!!!
Regarding your tilting solar panels - you could improve the setup so much more by creating an automated tilting mechanism using a simple 12v rocker switch (or even a 12 remote winch controller) & a 12v linear actuator! It's very cheap & will make your life much easier. With an automated solar panel tilting mechanism you'll be able to position (and further adjust throughout the day) your solar panel at a perfect angle every time, all from inside your van! Which is so much better, since you can look at your solar charge controller, while adjusting the angle, until you hit the sweet spot (the highest voltage reading on your solar charge controller). Bonus tip: an actuator in a closed position is actually really strong, so it can be the thing that holds your panels down too. Meaning that you won't need those Thule clamps you salvaged. You can still use them, if you are paranoid (or when going on super long road trips/highways), but the actuator would normally be more than enough to hold the panel down.
Your work and ingenuity beat the works of some engineers. Btw. I have seen someone mounts a long water container on the rack for washing gears or boots, even for shower. I have seen it some where. Will attach the link below if I manage to find it.
Clever solution with your solar panel. I've had an equal problem with a tilting desk and used hinges from the slatted frame from my old bed. The head end was adjustable. If it works it's not dumb I guess 🤷♂️. Greetings from Germany🇩🇪
Tom can see the perfectionist in your photography came out in your van build. Amazing. Taking a trip and taking one photo but its perfect just like your build.
As much as I like a photo of a lonely rock at the beach...I really enjoy these van builds!! Don't give up on this content...lets see some camping videos when the van is finished.
Excellent. What I did on my Deli. Is to attach extendable poles to the roof bars, and then simply clamp a tarp over them to provide some shelter over the side door from the elements when camping
I know you said earlier that you didn't intend to start a series about converting a van, but I admire your detail and dedication to make this build yours.
Just one thing I would add to the Van is a tracker in case somebody rather than nicking the van contents, nicks the van including the contents. If I tried working in our lounge, especially with a light coloured carpet like you have, I would end up living in the shed curtesy of my wife 😳 Notice you did have a Hoover to hand, but lack of furniture.Thoroughly enjoyed the van build.
You've every reason to be proud of what you have achieved Thomas, as every nut, bolt, screw and fitting has been thought through from a practical and technical point of view and what you have ended up with, to coin your phrase is 'simply stunning'. I wish you many enjoyable and productive trips ahead and as always look forward to what is about to unfold in your van adventures
You could cut a slot between the pre-drilled holes in one of the galvanized hinges and use a wing nut and bolt. That would give you a fine adjustment and allow you to alter the angle of the solar panel by just loosening the winged nut and sliding it up and down.
It's been a pretty good job Tom, not sure I'd have the guts to drill a hole in the roof but kudos. Only thing I'd really like to see improved is a motorised adjustment for the solar panel.
Have you thought about changing your interior light bulbs to LED. They will use less battery power and are usually brighter so you can see better in the van on early mornings or late night outings.
Hi Thomas, you could attache the Tilting Hinge to the Solar Panel. And then just slide it to the position you want for the Tilt angle. If it cold go under the Panel, if there is not enough space to lock it down on the outside of the rack. And you can always cut the long side of the Hinge, to make it work. This way, you can just slide and lock the Hinge, to where ever you need it. I Just found your channel. Have fun and never cut towards you self, with a knife... Don
Just dropped off my pickup for a custom winch bumper today. He is measuring the truck and cutting the steal today. After I have that installed we are working on a custom bed rack/platform that I can stand on with a camera and tripod. Got to keep it looking cool to go with the off road 4x4 Toyota Tacoma vibe.
I've loved watching your process, the only thing I'd say (I haven't looked through the comments so someone might have already mentioned it ) but you should measure the height of the van with the solar and roof box on, you might be surprised how low a lot of car park height bars are. :)
What's up Thomas?I don't know what to say. I'm really speechless. What you've done is truly outstanding. My Step Father told me years and years ago, "A man that can do more than one thing will never be broke, be it recession or depression you will always have money. And, he was right. The same thing goes here. If you ever get tired of photography you can do this, and do quite well. This is really tight. Peace dude!!!!
Oooo those side lights would be awesome with a remote control switch so you can see the van easier when walking up to it! Superb build though chap, it’s been brilliant viewing!
I hate to think what my wife would do to me had I drilled metal on carpet. If you want more adjustability on the solar panel angle maybe consider a threaded rod and turn buckle attached to the panel and carrier with a quick connector?
Fantastic! First of all the build is shockingly good - tidy, efficient and very clean. Then, the space you have to work in - wow! Good thing you are thin and limber! You will win ALL that against Gavin! But, I'm afraid he is going to win the comfort votes. Glad you 2 are still friends! Great work!
Your mrs is very understanding, having a workshop in the front room
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I made a similar construction to my LR Defender 110. At first it was only tiltable, but after some time I modified it to be able to use the solar panel with the tilt when parked in the shade. In this situation, I use the tilt mechanism when the panel is in the sun on the grass and use a long wire to bring electricity to the car.
Once again, it's a great build that keeps getting better. Don't sell yourself short as a handyman - there's no doubt you've got the common sense and skills for it.
The roof rack make it really look like an expedition vehicle. And those delicas are exactly that. We drove through mi golia with one of those. Large oarts off road. Nice project!
Loving the build mate. I would suggest adding a bit of copper grease to the threads of the bolts holding the solar panel/rifle box on. As they are exposed the the lovely British weather the copper grease will stop them seizing and make removing them in years to come a lot easier.
Car's number plate says HTN. Pretty nice detail actually, Mr. Heaton. One suggestion on side lights. Putting red filters over white LED lights would be easy on eyes at night.
Another cracking vlog Tom and the vans looking good. One tip though as a Caravan/Motor home technician when we got solar panels to the roof, we put th He remaining cables in plastic channelling to protect them from the weather. All we do is secure it on the roof panel itself with either double sided 3m tape and feed the cables in then clip the top all. It's just an idea as we have had no issues in doing it that way.
Again, I am very impressed with your DYI skills and attention to details. You are pretty handy maybe accept for the hand wound. Hope you didn't need stitches. Almost ready for the maiden adventure.
Saw all the 4 parts for the van build. Came out really beautiful. It was very inspirational to watch and learn. Great to see all the efforts you took and with all the little details. Good luck from India :)
Solar is still good to have in an emergency situation so it is still practical. Love the videos so far and you're being particular about everything is likely how I would do this. I love the system you used it actually feels suited for a Van mod. You've kinda re-inspired me to one day do this with a van so I could go on little trips and perhaps get photos. I love how it turned out and have just binged the whole thing. Id finish one and think crap gonna have to wait for the next and turns they were already posted and that happened with each video I am glad cause it was fun to see the whole thing through. Thanks mate I wish you the best on some amazing adventures and getting some awesome photos.
I would recommend that any bolts used on the exterior of the van (for the roof rack)be stainless steel, movable/adjustable can disappear in short order with rust.
One more for the list, replace the rear door lifters I notice you have to hold it up for a second before it's stable up there. Cheers Heaton great build series. Love the way you explain and describe things.
From Alaska with love Tom my boy. You are a man after my own heart with your “custom” mounting hardware for that Bitchin solar panel. Sure there are expensive brackets and hardware out there for the same purpose but your creative split comes out with every corner, nook and cranny!
No DIY project is done until a box cutter draws blood! Only suggestion I got for the roof rack is adding a deflector somehow, it'll cut down on wind noise a little bit.
Excellent work on your build!👍 Scary part was drilling a hole in the roof! My sister and brother-in-law wanted a fantastic fan in their brand new van with 67 miles on it. They cutout a huge square hole in it. Fits well!
Awesome series Thomas! One suggestion, you might want to leave the space behind the passenger seat empty. Might help make the fan "feel" bigger and less cluttered/claustrophobic when spending long amounts of time in it.
One suggestion. On your galvanized hinge supports for your solar panel that are bolted together, I would suggest that you cut slots in the long arms rather than your fixed bolt holes, so that they could be more readily adjusted (slid) for length using bolts with wing nuts. Question: How do you plan to get ice and snow off your solar panel? ... or it is only to be used during fairer weather?
If I reply to your comment. Make sure my name is highlighted and has a tick next to it. There is a spambot out there claiming to be me, leaving comments about Whatsapp and Bitcoin. I'm certain no one here would fall for it, but just in case.
Who threw flowers in your driveway ?
One of the most professional looking van builds I have seen in some time. You are far too humble in your knowledge and ability to fix problems.
I used to work for a company that made surveillance vehicles, They had a pneumatic mast with a PTZ camera attached, Part of the conversion was jigsawing an 8" hole in the roof of brand new cars to allow the mast fitment...............Very satisfying :-)
Over the past few years, I've watched dozens (hundreds?) of van builds, and this is one of the very best. Excellent work.
Don’t forget a squeegee to keep your solar panel clean. It’s small enough to easily fit in the rooftop box.
Make the passenger seat a pilot chair that turns around into the rear.
That would be perfect
How disappointed the thieves will be when breaking into your rifle box and finding your Wellingtons. 😂
That would be a unfortunate outrage that leads to completely destroy of the van to unleash the anger, so in short, put something valued there please
Looks like thief’s have already nicked his furniture.
For me the best bit of this video was the way Tom parked the van properly in the diagonal lines in the completely empty car park at the end. Just shows how committed to attention to detail and perfection he is. The whole video series has been superb to watch, and I'm in awe of the skills and ingenuity shown!
Pure genius! Necessity truly is the mother of invention. Do make sure you have the best immobilizer and alarm system. You are ready for a round the world trip. Happy Motoring!
Your solar tilting solution really is genius... Actually, all your little bits for the solar panel are brilliantly simple.
Tom, if you ever decide to have a longer break from photography, you can always open your own van conversion business. First client guaranteed here. On a serious note, you have done a fantastic job with the van. Looking forward to see it in your future videos.
Magnet brilliant finder ,i love it
I hope you feel a sense of satisfaction with your accomplishment! I wonder if, like a photographer editing a raw file, a tinkerer may never be 100% happy with the final result? It was a pleasure to watch the process, thank you for sharing!
Brilliant idea with the tilt of the solar panel. As you know from your F4 trip, where I live in the PNW and as your home is, chasing the sun, especially when it's low in the sky during winter is crucial for capturing the sun's energy. Since I'm older, and more prone to forget obvious things, I'd want a band on the steering wheel, hang tag on the rear view mirror, or some other way to remind me that the panel is tilted before heading off. Don't laugh, your day will come youngster!
Hi Tom, little tip for you, once you drill a hole in a waterproof junction box, its unlikely to be waterproof especially on the roof of your van while your travelling in driving rain. To make sure it doesn't become an issue, pop down to your local branch of Screwfix and purchase a tube of Raytech Transparent Di-Electric Gel, whip the lid off your box, fill with this stuff, water will never get anywhere near your electrics.... simples :)
This is great, Thomas! I have a suggestion, change those roof top nuts to security nuts so you don't have nefarious people stealing the roof box and other parts.... You may want to sheet metal tap screw the junction box to the roof also so it won't loosen due to vibration and a water gap be made. Great ideas! Great work!!!! Cheers, Thomas!
Sikaflex is super strong, it holds most of my Defender together…👍
Great point. Also about those nut holes in the panels...silicon for water seal? Just being a worry wort.
Cut a grove down the center of one of the joined panel hinges, use a bolt and wingnut, and you'll have an infinitely adjustable panel tilt! E viola! Also, before you build in storage behind the passenger seat consider the charm of using a temporary lucite box for whatever, SO that you can always move it to then throw in a "last mile" transport solution in the still free space... if not an actually bike. Awesome build, really enjoyed the series.
Looks amazing, great homebrew solutions. Calling it now tho, you will never once be arsed to get on the roof and tilt that panel.
Wonderful and beautiful
Great video. Quick tip for you from an engineer... you’ve drilled into the solar panel and fitted hinges. It may not look like it as you will have tightened the nuts down but there is now a very small entry point for water. Get some 1mm or 2mm thick rubber sheet, cut down to size, and clamp between hinge and panel. This will stop any water getting in
really enjoyable series. Far too many builds are full on campers for 2-3 people+ usually a cat or a dog, entertainment systems inside and out, full kitchens, king size beds, showers and what not to spend long times in. It's refreshing to see a "one man" camper that's used for a few days in a row to do some photography. It's far more the style I'd have and need if I were to do something like this.
And believe me, I've been looking at second hand vans and suv's for a bit since this series started.
I'm glad you have clamps to keep the solar panel from being caught in the wind. Clever ideas all around.
I'm impressed with your handywork. Have to chuckle that the rifle box is for your welly boots.
You're fortunate to get a 2002 model in great condition. Here in Canada a 2002 anything is almost guaranteed to have serious salt corrosion issues. You've done a beautiful job. CONGRATS!!!
Very clever tiltfunction, watched so many of these conversion videos but only 3 or 4 have bothered making this..
Regarding your tilting solar panels - you could improve the setup so much more by creating an automated tilting mechanism using a simple 12v rocker switch (or even a 12 remote winch controller) & a 12v linear actuator!
It's very cheap & will make your life much easier. With an automated solar panel tilting mechanism you'll be able to position (and further adjust throughout the day) your solar panel at a perfect angle every time, all from inside your van! Which is so much better, since you can look at your solar charge controller, while adjusting the angle, until you hit the sweet spot (the highest voltage reading on your solar charge controller).
Bonus tip: an actuator in a closed position is actually really strong, so it can be the thing that holds your panels down too. Meaning that you won't need those Thule clamps you salvaged. You can still use them, if you are paranoid (or when going on super long road trips/highways), but the actuator would normally be more than enough to hold the panel down.
Tom,
Use a A-clamps to hold the solar panel up when you are tilting it. They are small and powerful. I will look forward to you van tour.
Magnet hole finder, brilliant!
Squarespace is the sponsor, but it is you that has build an awesome space, with this van! :0)
Lol.
Your work and ingenuity beat the works of some engineers.
Btw. I have seen someone mounts a long water container on the rack for washing gears or boots, even for shower. I have seen it some where. Will attach the link below if I manage to find it.
Nice adaptation of an existing product to meet your storage needs!
Clever solution with your solar panel. I've had an equal problem with a tilting desk and used hinges from the slatted frame from my old bed. The head end was adjustable. If it works it's not dumb I guess 🤷♂️. Greetings from Germany🇩🇪
Tom can see the perfectionist in your photography came out in your van build. Amazing. Taking a trip and taking one photo but its perfect just like your build.
As much as I like a photo of a lonely rock at the beach...I really enjoy these van builds!! Don't give up on this content...lets see some camping videos when the van is finished.
Excellent. What I did on my Deli. Is to attach extendable poles to the roof bars, and then simply clamp a tarp over them to provide some shelter over the side door from the elements when camping
Nice van... BUT can you please make the ladder black, would look awesome!
Wow! Cutting, drilling, and assembling metal objects on a white carpet. You have one very understanding missus, or she is out of town!
I know you said earlier that you didn't intend to start a series about converting a van, but I admire your detail and dedication to make this build yours.
I like the idea of the rifle case! Gives a whole different feeling to shooting landscape
I love what you have done with this conversion. To finish the outside Please spray your roof ladder in black raptor paint.
You should use an IP65 or IP68 gland instead of the grommet on the roof
Just one thing I would add to the Van is a tracker in case somebody rather than nicking the van contents, nicks the van including the contents. If I tried working in our lounge, especially with a light coloured carpet like you have, I would end up living in the shed curtesy of my wife 😳 Notice you did have a Hoover to hand, but lack of furniture.Thoroughly enjoyed the van build.
You've every reason to be proud of what you have achieved Thomas, as every nut, bolt, screw and fitting has been thought through from a practical and technical point of view and what you have ended up with, to coin your phrase is 'simply stunning'. I wish you many enjoyable and productive trips ahead and as always look forward to what is about to unfold in your van adventures
Did Tom ever give a reason as to why he got rid of his larger van with more practical room and comfortability?
@@jed23ify yes he had his reasons and as I recall covered these in a previous video when he purchased his Mitsubishi
@@jed23ify He wanted something more rugged for snow and dirt roads, that his previous van did not provide.
You could cut a slot between the pre-drilled holes in one of the galvanized hinges and use a wing nut and bolt. That would give you a fine adjustment and allow you to alter the angle of the solar panel by just loosening the winged nut and sliding it up and down.
You never have to justify your van toys, you are amongst friends and we ALL do the same. Great build and love the registration.
You definitely need a big LED bar on the roof (front) Just because it looks cool ;)
It's been a pretty good job Tom, not sure I'd have the guts to drill a hole in the roof but kudos. Only thing I'd really like to see improved is a motorised adjustment for the solar panel.
Have you thought about changing your interior light bulbs to LED. They will use less battery power and are usually brighter so you can see better in the van on early mornings or late night outings.
The best delica conversions I have ever seen thank you so much bravo grazie ciao
Hi Thomas, you could attache the Tilting Hinge to the Solar Panel. And then just slide it to the position you want for the Tilt angle. If it cold go under the Panel, if there is not enough space to lock it down on the outside of the rack. And you can always cut the long side of the Hinge, to make it work. This way, you can just slide and lock the Hinge, to where ever you need it. I Just found your channel. Have fun and never cut towards you self, with a knife... Don
Great work on the Mitsuhashi Delica! A bit nostalgic after owning 6 Delicas
It's interesting that you and Paul Messner are doing van videos at the same time and a good comparison in very different styles of build.
I feel like i want to own a van, and live down by the river. This setup is really nice! peaceful.
Excellent video.
Make sure that when the solar panel is tilted it can not be fold or pushed over toward the box by wind.
Just dropped off my pickup for a custom winch bumper today. He is measuring the truck and cutting the steal today. After I have that installed we are working on a custom bed rack/platform that I can stand on with a camera and tripod. Got to keep it looking cool to go with the off road 4x4 Toyota Tacoma vibe.
I've loved watching your process, the only thing I'd say (I haven't looked through the comments so someone might have already mentioned it ) but you should measure the height of the van with the solar and roof box on, you might be surprised how low a lot of car park height bars are. :)
What's up Thomas?I don't know what to say. I'm really speechless. What you've done is truly outstanding. My Step Father told me years and years ago, "A man that can do more than one thing will never be broke, be it recession or depression you will always have money. And, he was right. The same thing goes here. If you ever get tired of photography you can do this, and do quite well. This is really tight. Peace dude!!!!
great video, you should mount some roof lights to the front of the car, I recommend Hella rally lights.
Oooo those side lights would be awesome with a remote control switch so you can see the van easier when walking up to it!
Superb build though chap, it’s been brilliant viewing!
Thomas, i really like the way you presenting :) By sharing your thoughts and your humor - it's really a joy to watch!
I hate to think what my wife would do to me had I drilled metal on carpet. If you want more adjustability on the solar panel angle maybe consider a threaded rod and turn buckle attached to the panel and carrier with a quick connector?
Fantastic! First of all the build is shockingly good - tidy, efficient and very clean. Then, the space you have to work in - wow! Good thing you are thin and limber! You will win ALL that against Gavin! But, I'm afraid he is going to win the comfort votes. Glad you 2 are still friends! Great work!
I’ve been away from TH-cam for a while, so I’m catching the entire build at once...GREAT SOCKS 👍🏿
Bravo Tom, bravo. 👍👏👏👏
Your mrs is very understanding, having a workshop in the front room
I made a similar construction to my LR Defender 110. At first it was only tiltable, but after some time I modified it to be able to use the solar panel with the tilt when parked in the shade.
In this situation, I use the tilt mechanism when the panel is in the sun on the grass and use a long wire to bring electricity to the car.
Thomas Heaton, professional van converter... also known to take the odd good photo. 😉
Seriously really enjoyed that.. take a bow Tom 👌👍
Once again, it's a great build that keeps getting better. Don't sell yourself short as a handyman - there's no doubt you've got the common sense and skills for it.
The roof rack make it really look like an expedition vehicle.
And those delicas are exactly that. We drove through mi golia with one of those. Large oarts off road.
Nice project!
Great vid Tom. You could put a box behind the passenger seat for your boots so you don't get your inside dirty.
I am very impressed with the way you work through your problems and the simple solutions that you find.
You have done an exquisite job in your van. Clean, simple, elegant. Congratulations
Loving the build mate. I would suggest adding a bit of copper grease to the threads of the bolts holding the solar panel/rifle box on. As they are exposed the the lovely British weather the copper grease will stop them seizing and make removing them in years to come a lot easier.
Great work and some wonderful lateral thinking 🤔 I have really enjoyed this series.
Good to see the sandwich plates in the roof boxes. Everything's looking slightly over engineered which is a good thing.
You’ve done very well, vans looking great 👍
"You haven't seen me going to the toilet" - In my family, we call that over sharing. Excellent series!
Car's number plate says HTN. Pretty nice detail actually, Mr. Heaton. One suggestion on side lights. Putting red filters over white LED lights would be easy on eyes at night.
A better van build than most I have watched. Well done Tom
I added my solar to the roof pod and just prop open for sun .When its down can still use it for storage
2L2 for the windows is always a good shout to keep heat in at night.
Another cracking vlog Tom and the vans looking good. One tip though as a Caravan/Motor home technician when we got solar panels to the roof, we put th He remaining cables in plastic channelling to protect them from the weather. All we do is secure it on the roof panel itself with either double sided 3m tape and feed the cables in then clip the top all. It's just an idea as we have had no issues in doing it that way.
Again, I am very impressed with your DYI skills and attention to details. You are pretty handy maybe accept for the hand wound. Hope you didn't need stitches. Almost ready for the maiden adventure.
Saw all the 4 parts for the van build. Came out really beautiful. It was very inspirational to watch and learn. Great to see all the efforts you took and with all the little details. Good luck from India :)
Solar is still good to have in an emergency situation so it is still practical. Love the videos so far and you're being particular about everything is likely how I would do this. I love the system you used it actually feels suited for a Van mod. You've kinda re-inspired me to one day do this with a van so I could go on little trips and perhaps get photos. I love how it turned out and have just binged the whole thing. Id finish one and think crap gonna have to wait for the next and turns they were already posted and that happened with each video I am glad cause it was fun to see the whole thing through. Thanks mate I wish you the best on some amazing adventures and getting some awesome photos.
I would recommend that any bolts used on the exterior of the van (for the roof rack)be stainless steel, movable/adjustable can disappear in short order with rust.
Pretty sweet rig, Thomas. Nice job!
One more for the list, replace the rear door lifters I notice you have to hold it up for a second before it's stable up there. Cheers Heaton great build series. Love the way you explain and describe things.
Hi Tom. That's means that the two hands on the right place. Respects!!!
Tom, You seem to have a lot of fun building that van! Enjoy it! 🙂👍
From Alaska with love Tom my boy. You are a man after my own heart with your “custom” mounting hardware for that Bitchin solar panel. Sure there are expensive brackets and hardware out there for the same purpose but your creative split comes out with every corner, nook and cranny!
Great work.
Always do a shakedown trip locally after this sort of work.
You know you need a light bar up top don't you, go on you know you do.
Thanks for taking us along Thomas. I'm almost inspired to try something similar 😬
Awesome job. Your van looks great
No DIY project is done until a box cutter draws blood! Only suggestion I got for the roof rack is adding a deflector somehow, it'll cut down on wind noise a little bit.
Excellent work on your build!👍 Scary part was drilling a hole in the roof! My sister and brother-in-law wanted a fantastic fan in their brand new van with 67 miles on it. They cutout a huge square hole in it. Fits well!
Awesome series Thomas! One suggestion, you might want to leave the space behind the passenger seat empty. Might help make the fan "feel" bigger and less cluttered/claustrophobic when spending long amounts of time in it.
Found you from a comment you left over on Primal Outdoors. Love landscape photography, looking forward to following you around a bit. Cheers! 🤙-Josh
One suggestion. On your galvanized hinge supports for your solar panel that are bolted together, I would suggest that you cut slots in the long arms rather than your fixed bolt holes, so that they could be more readily adjusted (slid) for length using bolts with wing nuts. Question: How do you plan to get ice and snow off your solar panel? ... or it is only to be used during fairer weather?
What a great idea mounting the lights onto the roof box. Kudos, and I'm loving the build