The safety built in by attaching to the frame points. If you publish plans & i do this to my 3.6 2011 I wouldn't hesitate to let my teen daughter take it on the road for an overnight.
I drove across the country from Connecticut to Montana, Idaho, Colorado in winter. What I learned from that experience is that travel in an empty car. Do not take too much stuff, travel with the least stuff you can possibly get away with. Make sure the car is not loaded with crap. A few shirts, socks, etc.
Your build addresses the same points I've been concerned about: weight, cost, safety, stealth and ease of installation. It's artfully designed and constructed. Brilliant!
Sincerely, I never thought I’d want to go camping until I started watching your channel. I got a RAV4 last year and it fits my life well and has been my home as I so often during the pandemic (just not overnight) that the idea of camping with my car makes sense.
Great and efficient DIY conversion without re-wiring. Another reason for me to get an Outback for my next vehicle. Showing how you removed the seats really helps. Thanks for this video!
Just to throw this out there. I've got the same car, tools and tracing skills enough to build this for myself if there was a template for the pieces. I'd pay WHATEVER you think is fair and profitable for the creativity, work, skills, and frustration that you have already put into this Outback masterpiece, plus the work for doing the template. I understand that this is a strange request from the crazy world of TH-cam, but I'm sure I'm not the only one. Fair enough if you've already decided against it.
John, thanks for the input. I am certainly considering building a set of plans since It seems that would be helpful to several people. What, in your opinion, would be a reasonable price range for something like that? Thanks again for the suggestion.
@@ChaseChristopher1 If there was a file of detailed plans and a parts list for materials and assembly hardware, I'd think Generation 5 Outback owners would easily pay $50 for what you have accomplished. For myself, my hoped for plan is to purchase a '20 or '21 OB this fall and I just realized last night that they (Gen 6) are built on the Subaru Global Platform. I don't know but I imagine that changes the attachment points. The outside is unchanged but the frame is, so until I check that out I can't commit to anything. Feel free to email me if you have any questions or want to discuss anything. Your engineering seemed brilliant to me. John (jstardust54@gmail.com)
@@johnbirkhimer704 I would highly suggest your contact information be sent via. private message. You don't want that kind of stuff out in a comment, leaves you open to an attack if the wrong person sees it. It is, in fact, the "crazy world of youtube" haha!
@@greg3318 Thanks Greg. I had hoped to do that but couldn't figure out how to pm on youtube. I tend to be a pretty trusting guy anyway, My kids say that's one of my character flaws. Keep up doing awesome stuff.
That’s an awesome setup! Everything fits together so well you’d think it’s a Subaru accessory! I love how quick it is to get set up and how none of it is permanent. Resale values can take a dive when people start making permanent modifications so this set up is awesome!
I’ve been living in my outback for two years now...have a similar setup but this video showed me a lot more ideas and such for a new build. Thanks so much Chris! A+ mate!
Hi Chase I have watched a lot of conversion video but you are the first one that talks about the importance of securing the base so they won't move ;) I will certainly watch your other videos. :)4
That is the best Subaru camper build I have seen. I was surprised to see you have the same roof rack set up that I have. I bolted an awning to the basket and it works perfectly giving extra height to the awning. The bolts on the basket are the exact size needed to fit the aluminum bar on the awning.
@@ChaseChristopher1 I bought an inexpensive awning off eBay. It was about $115.00 U.S. It is a super clean fit on the roof basket that you have, so no need for the untidy brackets they supply. The heads of the two hex bolts upper centre on your basket fit exactly tne channel in the awning frame. We have found it be a great addition keeping us dry while preparing a meal etc. I just bought the 4x6 awning which I found to be perfectly adequate. Just look up "Awning Rooftop Car Tent SUV Shelter Truck Camper Outdoor Camping Canopy Sunshade" on eBay
Love your video and how informative you made it. I like the fact that you had both hands free to do the installation rather then one hand holding the camera like some video blogger do. Nice job...
Thank you for such a thorough video. I especially appreciate the bolted down for safety aspect. So many builds seems to have a lot of loose pieces to flop/fly around while off roading. Or worse become projectiles in the case of an accident.
You should make a template for sale I would pay $ for this I have the same car and that’s the only thing is preventing me from going all out measurements. But I love your set up
Great build. Very secure. Most people don't think about stuff shifting in the back when you have to brake hard. Definitely like the small cargo basket -that is great!
Really nice build and presentation! Thanks for being concise. So many people take forever to say very little.. You did a great job of communicating, showing and demonstrating your process without draging it out. Thanks! If you make plans, I would be another potential buyer. I spent 2 months in my outback with my dog visiting 14 National Parks and Monuments. I woukd like to get out again.
Hello Chase. Total genius using the seat brackets as mounting points, i never would have thought of it. I am doing near exactly the same with my 17’. I have a RRT but having a stelph safe place to walmart sleep is a must. The plan is to have water storage with a on demand pump for showers and dishes, and 4 used lithium cells to power cooler with dc/dc charger . A place to poop and a pull out stove. Perhaps foolish but i will try and fit everything in. (See Part Two next)
Love this conversion. Good job Chase. Also Im glad you mentioned the jackery. Ive had a couple in my cart on amazon for a few monthes. I might take the jump on that and start building my expedition camper conversion. I do miss my outback but with a wife and a kid it simply wouldn't work. Haha. Thanks again for the video. Top notch!
Thanks Adam! That battery has been a game changer for me. It’s just nice to have a battery to charge things and run a fan without worrying about killing the cars battery, and it always recharged while driving. Have fun with your build!
I think your build is amazing and simple. I have an 08 that ive started to build for overlanding. Ive got all the mods done on the undercarriage. Hope you don't mind that I copy your idea. So far in my opinion I think your build is the best one out there. After reading some of the comments sounds like you could start a business either selling plans or building out subies for folks. Thanks for sharing man!
I subscribed to your channel because I have a 2009 Prius I enjoy using as a capsule hotel while on road trips with my small dog. I don’t have your amazing woodworking skills or tools, but someone does! This would be a nice plan to outfit my own little camping car system! Best ideas I have seen so far! Great job! 👍
Interesting setup - we just camped in our Sub for a few nights (a family of 3 with a young toddler!). We didn't do anything fancy though - bought a car mattress and window curtains and already have a roof rack storage which we put all our stuff in over night - so maybe a little more work each night than your set up but no complaints here!
That’s a very well thoughtful build with som amazing close tolerances... it would be really cool to draw up that plan with measurements for other Ownerback owners... you’ve really maxed out the utility... Well Done❗️
if you're an Outback owner you know how to make measurements, check and change oil and filter, rotate tires, replace cabin air filter and probally know each and every torque spec to your vehicle. long live the 14mm and 10mm. cool build man
Chase, you did an awesome job with your conversion. If you ever start building these and selling them I would be interested. It looks like you have a business opportunity here as many are interested in the template and others would be willing to buy one ready to install.
I have done a similar build but I used the seat belt connectors as anchors for my bed, I just got a few cheap universal seat belt connectors for dog harnesses and attatched them to my bed. Then its just a matter for clicking them in place when I go camping mode :)
Love this build out. I've been thinking of a Teardrop, but maybe a conversion like this makes more sense. 🤔 Question though...how difficult would it be to deal with a flat tire?
Thanks, Chris! I had a similar thought when considering what route to take. Teardrops are awesome but I ultimately decided that the ability to park anywhere and not have to deal with a trailer was important for me. I love having quick and easy mobility while maintaining good gas mileage. I carry the wrench needed to detach the platform if I where to blow a tire. I would unbolt the platform so that I could reach under to retrieve the tire. Another option is to move the spare to the roof rack, then you could also utilize the spare tire compartment for additional internal storage. Take care!
Great build Christopher! I'm thinking of rebuilding my dead 1997 Outback (5 speed) into an over landing camper with an internal set up for solo camping & a pop top tent for camping with friends. You gave a lot of thought to being able to switch you Subaru back to urban hauler mode. I'll probably turn mine into a glorified pick up truck & remove the back seats permanently. Any thoughts about other materials than plywood? Fiberglass Hexel sheets are light & strong but probably not as easy to work with. Post some of your travels. Thanks, PK
Thanks Paul! That sounds like a fun project to dive into. Yeah, I did spend a lot of time considering how to keep it removable and I'm very happy with how it turned out! I had not considered any other materials due to cost and my ability to work with them. I'd be curious to see what you end up using! Please come back and share👍
I like the build, quick simple and easy install. Only issue (bc its me) cut your bolts down man, they are like twice as long as they need to be. I do love the slide out shelves in the back, nice touch.
Thanks! With a little practice I’m sure you could make it happen. Check out the Facebook group in the description to see what other people are creating👍
Very cool build. You design is top notch. Just a heads up, it looks like you are using a wireless charging puck for your phone. Wireless chargers are very inefficient compared to wired, so if you are trying to conserve your battery it’s not a good choice.
Wow one of the nicest conversions. I have a 2015 outback limited. Thank you so much for showing me how to take that seat apart. PS I also have a small box on one side I would like that basket on the other. THANK you thank you. 💕 Great video keep going. 💕💕
Just bought a 2022 Onyx for the little woman. She is going to F-in' hate that I watched your video! LOL I can hear it now, "Where did my friggin' back seat go?!" Very cool set up.
I bet you could cut your installation time down by 25% if you shortened your bolts. I’d cut them all down to the longest necessary length so they would all be interchangeable. Also, you might be able to get away with only using two of the bolts that attach to the seat hinge. Quite the inspiring build! I can tell you put a lot of thought into this design. Best outback camper conversion I’ve seen!
@@ChaseChristopher1 I just viewed your new setup (updated version). I signed up to your website. One of these days I shall purchase it and make it my own (version2) thanks. I fly fish often and setup like this will work really well for my outback.
I wonder if your plans would be a good fit for my 2016 Jeep Compass with a few modifications. I left my rear cargo area stock, just folded the rear seats forward and placed a $40 soft carpet from Walmart down on the cargo area floor that fits perfectly from the back of the front seats to the edge of the hatch door. It also serves as my morale patch collector. I cut a 24"X36" board for my head support covering the small gap behind the front passenger seat. Then I roll out a 3" thick Teton base camp mat for my sleep area. My fridge, Jackery, and storage bins/bags go on one side; all secured with bungee cords. My portable loo, privacy tent, tent, tarp, awning tarp and other gear pack into a waterproof cargo bag and that is secured in a rooftop basket. I can also mount my kayak on the rooftop as well. Occasionally I'll take a 40 liter dry bag/backpack with separate camping gear and a breakdown fishing kit should I decide to leave the Jeep and camp across the lake or river. Your conversion kit is awesome, very well designed to perfection. Well done, Chase!
Insurance tip for anyone doing this or something similar; keep digital receipts of everything you have in your van/car and take photos of the build and your gear inside as well. That way if someone rear ends you, you can present the receipts and photos to the at-fault insurance company to get compensated correctly.
Jim - Did you get anywhere with this? Just found Chase’s vid and plan to try to translate most of what he did into my 2019 Crosstrek. Just takes patience and some skill building cardboard templates first!
Didn't know how the back seats came out. thx for that. Question. If you just take out the the bottom of the back seat. Would the top half lay flat to sleep on?
Hey, nice build, few thoughts- the square cover and the small oval tabletop are lose ant might be a hazard during accident. You could use those carabiners to simply attach them so they would not reach front of the car. Also too long bolts. Good luck!
Just found your channel that is a great camping set up the best one I’ve seen so far I have a RAV4 I’m thinking about doing, how wide is your sleeping platform. Do you have a General plans that someone could used to incorporate with their vehicle, Great job
love,love,love your build Chase. Thank you for sharing and inspiring more than myself Im sure. Couple questions if u could...What was the first part u started with in the building process? Guessing platform or cubby box and than measuring everything else from that level. Was the platform from one sheet of 4'×8'? And what thickness plywood? Thank you again advance if u have the chance to respond. Maybe get to look u up when Im out west to buy you a 'thank you' beer ...or cup of Joe.
Thanks Harry! I started with the platform and built the cubby, seat and cabinet around that. It was a lot of trial and error. The platform was built with one 4'x8' sheet of 3/4" (I believe) plywood. I hope to have some plans built and available soon! Stay tuned.
Ok, just throwing this out there. I see great use of space inside and out but no room on top for a spare and where a spare would normally go you have the deck bolted down over the spare tire access area. What provisions have you made in case of a flat other than unloading and disassembly of the all but one of the modulars?
Maybe there's a good way to mount it up to that roof rack but I do think that if you're in such a bind, taking apart the build would just have to be an obstacle. Beats eliminating the spare entirely to make room for "storage" as I've seen other builds do lol
The rood rack would be a good option, but with how infrequently I use spare tires I decided that the extra work to access it would not be too inconvenient.
When installing everything I notice you only used washers on one side (bottom platform) nothing on top. Did you already have washers installed there? If not it seems it could eventually wear out. Also all those bolts were so long, not that it really matters. Making instructions or a template would be nice. Good vid.
With your passenger seat completely forward, what would the Max length for sleeping be? I am quite tall but this build is so sweet, really consider doing something similar... if I fit
I noticed that you have padding on your roof rack installation, between the brackets and the factory roof bars. Have you done something similar for mounting cargo box as well? what padding is it? I am planning to use just the pipe insulation over the bar to provide 1) non slips surface, 2) cushionin, 3) protect the factory roof bar surface..
You have done fantastic work! Do you think there is enough head room to put your storage under the platform instead of to the side? I’m trying to fit two people on the bed platform. Thx
@@ChaseChristopher1 i have a 2016 outback and love it. I'm a pretty handy guy but I wouldn't know where to start to do what you did. I'm 6'1 and have slept in the back stretched out and still have room, even with my 70lb pit. Thanks for sharing.
What a great build. Only thing I have to admit- the removal process of the seats is soo annoying tbh. My father has Škoda Yeti and you can remove the seats without screws. It’s safe, quick and easy task, just a minute to do. From what I saw all VW concern cars(which Škoda is too) has the seats like this. Still a huge fan of Subaru. Greetings from Europe. Peace Edit: Man! Can’t stress enough how awesome this build is.
Thanks David! That would be nice. These do take removing a few bolts but it sure is easier than some other brands in which you have to remove the frame that's bolted down in multiple spots. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience, take care!
What’re your favorite camper conversion amenities?
Will you post the plans for your build?
I have not build a set of sharable plans yet, but I am considering it. Thanks for the interest! Ill be sure to post if I do.
@@ChaseChristopher1 I would love to purchase your plans. Great job.
@@ChaseChristopher1 I would purchase plans as well
The safety built in by attaching to the frame points. If you publish plans & i do this to my 3.6 2011 I wouldn't hesitate to let my teen daughter take it on the road for an overnight.
I drove across the country from Connecticut to Montana, Idaho, Colorado in winter. What I learned from that experience is that travel in an empty car. Do not take too much stuff, travel with the least stuff you can possibly get away with. Make sure the car is not loaded with crap. A few shirts, socks, etc.
Your build addresses the same points I've been concerned about: weight, cost, safety, stealth and ease of installation. It's artfully designed and constructed. Brilliant!
the best Subaru build out I have seen hands down. Great job! I want to do one for my Crosstrek soon, and this was inspiring.
oh and love the mountain design on your kitchen, nice touch.
Thanks, glad you liked it!
Sincerely, I never thought I’d want to go camping until I started watching your channel. I got a RAV4 last year and it fits my life well and has been my home as I so often during the pandemic (just not overnight) that the idea of camping with my car makes sense.
Great and efficient DIY conversion without re-wiring. Another reason for me to get an Outback for my next vehicle. Showing how you removed the seats really helps. Thanks for this video!
Glad to help!
Fantastic build I would like the blueprints as well . You are so much more patient and kind with answering peoples comments than I could ever be .
Thanks! In the works👍 Haha people can be ridiculous.
I just bought an outback wilderness. Your build is beautiful. The seat fit was real engineering. Nice work!
It's so satisfying how clean and solid this setup is. You make it look like putting together a LEGO set. Excellent job!
Just to throw this out there. I've got the same car, tools and tracing skills enough to build this for myself if there was a template for the pieces. I'd pay WHATEVER you think is fair and profitable for the creativity, work, skills, and frustration that you have already put into this Outback masterpiece, plus the work for doing the template. I understand that this is a strange request from the crazy world of TH-cam, but I'm sure I'm not the only one. Fair enough if you've already decided against it.
John, thanks for the input. I am certainly considering building a set of plans since It seems that would be helpful to several people. What, in your opinion, would be a reasonable price range for something like that? Thanks again for the suggestion.
@@ChaseChristopher1 If there was a file of detailed plans and a parts list for materials and assembly hardware, I'd think Generation 5 Outback owners would easily pay $50 for what you have accomplished. For myself, my hoped for plan is to purchase a '20 or '21 OB this fall and I just realized last night that they (Gen 6) are built on the Subaru Global Platform. I don't know but I imagine that changes the attachment points. The outside is unchanged but the frame is, so until I check that out I can't commit to anything. Feel free to email me if you have any questions or want to discuss anything. Your engineering seemed brilliant to me.
John (jstardust54@gmail.com)
@@johnbirkhimer704 I would highly suggest your contact information be sent via. private message. You don't want that kind of stuff out in a comment, leaves you open to an attack if the wrong person sees it. It is, in fact, the "crazy world of youtube" haha!
@@greg3318 Thanks Greg. I had hoped to do that but couldn't figure out how to pm on youtube. I tend to be a pretty trusting guy anyway, My kids say that's one of my character flaws. Keep up doing awesome stuff.
Would you consider building a kit with assembly instructions for someone who would like one?
That’s an awesome setup! Everything fits together so well you’d think it’s a Subaru accessory! I love how quick it is to get set up and how none of it is permanent. Resale values can take a dive when people start making permanent modifications so this set up is awesome!
I’ve been living in my outback for two years now...have a similar setup but this video showed me a lot more ideas and such for a new build. Thanks so much Chris! A+ mate!
Professionally planned and expertly executed!
Hi Chase
I have watched a lot of conversion video but you are the first one that talks about the importance of securing the base so they won't move ;)
I will certainly watch your other videos. :)4
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the support🙏
That is the best Subaru camper build I have seen. I was surprised to see you have the same roof rack set up that I have. I bolted an awning to the basket and it works perfectly giving extra height to the awning. The bolts on the basket are the exact size needed to fit the aluminum bar on the awning.
Thanks 👍 Which awning do you use? I had not considered getting one of those but that might be a cool addition.
@@ChaseChristopher1 I bought an inexpensive awning off eBay. It was about $115.00 U.S. It is a super clean fit on the roof basket that you have, so no need for the untidy brackets they supply. The heads of the two hex bolts upper centre on your basket fit exactly tne channel in the awning frame. We have found it be a great addition keeping us dry while preparing a meal etc. I just bought the 4x6 awning which I found to be perfectly adequate. Just look up "Awning Rooftop Car Tent SUV Shelter Truck Camper Outdoor Camping Canopy Sunshade" on eBay
My wife and I have talked about doing some conversions to our Outback. This really helped. Thank you Chase.
Im glad! You're very welcome.
Brilliant stealth camper build. You have space for everything you need in there to be comfortable.
Thanks!
Love your video and how informative you made it. I like the fact that you had both hands free to do the installation rather then one hand holding the camera like some video blogger do. Nice job...
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the comment!
U make each part so accurate and joint em perfectly like jigsaw puzzle pieces... good job 👍👍
Thank you very much! It was quite a puzzle to build
Thanks for such an informative video. One of the best non-Van Van builds on TH-cam!
Very impressive. Seriously, you have a great niche market for this. I see many possibilities for a business model here.
Thanks Steve!
Your build is amazing and what you designed and created can be sold!
Thanks! The design will be shared soon👍
Thank you for such a thorough video. I especially appreciate the bolted down for safety aspect. So many builds seems to have a lot of loose pieces to flop/fly around while off roading. Or worse become projectiles in the case of an accident.
The best build I’ve seen. Thought out and talented woodworker. I wish I could figure out how to make my RAV4 work for car camping.
You should make a template for sale I would pay $ for this I have the same car and that’s the only thing is preventing me from going all out measurements. But I love your set up
I will keep that in mind. Thanks for the suggestion Rob!
That makes two of us!
@@devintolman2891 three!
4 of us
Me too! That was really well designed.
Great build. Very secure. Most people don't think about stuff shifting in the back when you have to brake hard. Definitely like the small cargo basket -that is great!
Thanks! Yes, I don't like the idea of being killed by a cabinet.
Really nice build and presentation! Thanks for being concise. So many people take forever to say very little.. You did a great job of communicating, showing and demonstrating your process without draging it out. Thanks! If you make plans, I would be another potential buyer. I spent 2 months in my outback with my dog visiting 14 National Parks and Monuments. I woukd like to get out again.
Glad it was helpful! I appreciate the compliment. Stay tuned👍
You are so right!
Hello Chase. Total genius using the seat brackets as mounting points, i never would have thought of it. I am doing near exactly the same with my 17’. I have a RRT but having a stelph safe place to walmart sleep is a must. The plan is to have water storage with a on demand pump for showers and dishes, and 4 used lithium cells to power cooler with dc/dc charger . A place to poop and a pull out stove. Perhaps foolish but i will try and fit everything in. (See Part Two next)
Thanks!
What are the electrical connections that you are undoing from the back seats when you remove them? Beautiful custom build!
This is the best SUV build I have ever seen - hoping to rig out my Forester in the spring. Thanks for the inspiration!!
Looks like you're set. Getting out and enjoying the outdoors will be much easier with your conversion.
You got that right!
Love this conversion. Good job Chase. Also Im glad you mentioned the jackery. Ive had a couple in my cart on amazon for a few monthes. I might take the jump on that and start building my expedition camper conversion. I do miss my outback but with a wife and a kid it simply wouldn't work. Haha. Thanks again for the video. Top notch!
Thanks Adam! That battery has been a game changer for me. It’s just nice to have a battery to charge things and run a fan without worrying about killing the cars battery, and it always recharged while driving. Have fun with your build!
@@ChaseChristopher1 Which Jackery do you have (160, 500, or 1000)? We want to get a battery to power a small fridge/freezer for a one month trip.
awesome design. I like how the bolts mount the platform to the structure of the car.
Love it. Trying to build something similar but with access to the spare tire and that storage. Looking forward to posting my build.
Awesome, I hope it turns out well!
I have an outback, too . I live in japan.
That is exactly I want! because I feel the best iron tent..
and outback is a really good space!
It's a fun setup!
Holy cow!.....this is an amazingly well thought out build. Such an inspiration. I just got a new outback and this looks brilliant.
I think your build is amazing and simple. I have an 08 that ive started to build for overlanding. Ive got all the mods done on the undercarriage. Hope you don't mind that I copy your idea. So far in my opinion I think your build is the best one out there. After reading some of the comments sounds like you could start a business either selling plans or building out subies for folks. Thanks for sharing man!
Glad I could help!
I subscribed to your channel because I have a 2009 Prius I enjoy using as a capsule hotel while on road trips with my small dog. I don’t have your amazing woodworking skills or tools, but someone does! This would be a nice plan to outfit my own little camping car system! Best ideas I have seen so far! Great job! 👍
Great set up. A lot of work has gone into this.
Seriously, Im building this for my Outback. You made it so simple and awesome! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Glad I could help!
Just amazing…! Both the design and the quality of work. This is the way to do it!
That is ingenious! What a beautiful and safe design.
Interesting setup - we just camped in our Sub for a few nights (a family of 3 with a young toddler!). We didn't do anything fancy though - bought a car mattress and window curtains and already have a roof rack storage which we put all our stuff in over night - so maybe a little more work each night than your set up but no complaints here!
That’s a very well thoughtful build with som amazing close tolerances... it would be really cool to draw up that plan with measurements for other Ownerback owners... you’ve really maxed out the utility... Well Done❗️
Thanks! In the works 👍 Im better at the creative side than the design building, but I'm making it happen.
if you're an Outback owner you know how to make measurements, check and change oil and filter, rotate tires, replace cabin air filter and probally know each and every torque spec to your vehicle. long live the 14mm and 10mm. cool build man
Chase, you did an awesome job with your conversion. If you ever start building these and selling them I would be interested. It looks like you have a business opportunity here as many are interested in the template and others would be willing to buy one ready to install.
Thank you! I appreciate the feedback, I will certainly consider it. Feel free to email me if you'd like at ctchristopher10@gmail.com
Thats impressive great carpentry skill to be able to fit and mould those modulers for the centre and the draws , good skills
Thank you! Cheers!
Very impressive. Thank you for taking the time to make the video.
I have done a similar build but I used the seat belt connectors as anchors for my bed, I just got a few cheap universal seat belt connectors for dog harnesses and attatched them to my bed.
Then its just a matter for clicking them in place when I go camping mode :)
That’s a great idea! Thanks for sharing, I’ll probably use that in the future.
Love how simple and portable your build is...thinking of doing one for my 2 door tracker....
Very clever design and excellent cabinet work. My only question is where is the spare tire and how do you get to it?
Try captive nuts and shorter bolts to speed up install. Really good ideas and a neat setup.
Good idea, thanks!
Very nice. Nice touch with the mountain top design on side compartment.
Love this build out. I've been thinking of a Teardrop, but maybe a conversion like this makes more sense. 🤔
Question though...how difficult would it be to deal with a flat tire?
Thanks, Chris! I had a similar thought when considering what route to take. Teardrops are awesome but I ultimately decided that the ability to park anywhere and not have to deal with a trailer was important for me. I love having quick and easy mobility while maintaining good gas mileage.
I carry the wrench needed to detach the platform if I where to blow a tire. I would unbolt the platform so that I could reach under to retrieve the tire. Another option is to move the spare to the roof rack, then you could also utilize the spare tire compartment for additional internal storage.
Take care!
To add to the building interest already there: I would also pay for a blueprint of this build!
Thanks for the interest! Stay tuned.
I would pay for him to build something similar for my car!
Great build Christopher! I'm thinking of rebuilding my dead 1997 Outback (5 speed) into an over landing camper with an internal set up for solo camping & a pop top tent for camping with friends. You gave a lot of thought to being able to switch you Subaru back to urban hauler mode. I'll probably turn mine into a glorified pick up truck & remove the back seats permanently. Any thoughts about other materials than plywood? Fiberglass Hexel sheets are light & strong but probably not as easy to work with. Post some of your travels. Thanks, PK
Thanks Paul! That sounds like a fun project to dive into. Yeah, I did spend a lot of time considering how to keep it removable and I'm very happy with how it turned out! I had not considered any other materials due to cost and my ability to work with them. I'd be curious to see what you end up using! Please come back and share👍
This footage is so good. Thank you!
Question: with the rear seat bottom out it looks like the seat backs then lay down flat. Is that so?
I like the build, quick simple and easy install. Only issue (bc its me) cut your bolts down man, they are like twice as long as they need to be. I do love the slide out shelves in the back, nice touch.
Thanks, Matt!
Outstanding. Got a 2013 Xterra with the same potential. Thanks for the inspiration
Right on! Glad it helped.
What a sweet build. Have same car and color! Wish I was better with my woodworking skillz!
Thanks! With a little practice I’m sure you could make it happen. Check out the Facebook group in the description to see what other people are creating👍
Very cool build. You design is top notch. Just a heads up, it looks like you are using a wireless charging puck for your phone. Wireless chargers are very inefficient compared to wired, so if you are trying to conserve your battery it’s not a good choice.
Thanks, Aaron! That is a great tip, I was not aware of that. Thanks for sharing!
Love that rack and roof box setup as well. Great job on the build.
Wow one of the nicest conversions. I have a 2015 outback limited. Thank you so much for showing me how to take that seat apart. PS I also have a small box on one side I would like that basket on the other. THANK you thank you. 💕 Great video keep going. 💕💕
Thanks Renea!
Thanks for sharing your info. Good stuff. What food bag/cooler is that you are using?
Just bought a 2022 Onyx for the little woman. She is going to F-in' hate that I watched your video! LOL I can hear it now, "Where did my friggin' back seat go?!" Very cool set up.
I bet you could cut your installation time down by 25% if you shortened your bolts. I’d cut them all down to the longest necessary length so they would all be interchangeable. Also, you might be able to get away with only using two of the bolts that attach to the seat hinge.
Quite the inspiring build! I can tell you put a lot of thought into this design. Best outback camper conversion I’ve seen!
True! Good points, I will likely shorten the bolts in the future. Yes it was a bit of a puzzle to design, thanks for the comment!
Wow! impressive Chase. I do own a outback too and this is one of the best mods I have seen. Great setup!!
Thanks, John!
@@ChaseChristopher1 I just viewed your new setup (updated version). I signed up to your website. One of these days I shall purchase it and make it my own (version2) thanks. I fly fish often and setup like this will work really well for my outback.
I wonder if your plans would be a good fit for my 2016 Jeep Compass with a few modifications. I left my rear cargo area stock, just folded the rear seats forward and placed a $40 soft carpet from Walmart down on the cargo area floor that fits perfectly from the back of the front seats to the edge of the hatch door. It also serves as my morale patch collector. I cut a 24"X36" board for my head support covering the small gap behind the front passenger seat. Then I roll out a 3" thick Teton base camp mat for my sleep area. My fridge, Jackery, and storage bins/bags go on one side; all secured with bungee cords. My portable loo, privacy tent, tent, tarp, awning tarp and other gear pack into a waterproof cargo bag and that is secured in a rooftop basket. I can also mount my kayak on the rooftop as well. Occasionally I'll take a 40 liter dry bag/backpack with separate camping gear and a breakdown fishing kit should I decide to leave the Jeep and camp across the lake or river. Your conversion kit is awesome, very well designed to perfection. Well done, Chase!
This build is amazing! I would love to have a template for this, do you sell them somewhere?
Insurance tip for anyone doing this or something similar; keep digital receipts of everything you have in your van/car and take photos of the build and your gear inside as well. That way if someone rear ends you, you can present the receipts and photos to the at-fault insurance company to get compensated correctly.
Good call! Thanks for sharing.
Super nice job!! I plan to build one for my Crosstrek. Slight smaller version of course!!
Good luck!
Jim - Did you get anywhere with this? Just found Chase’s vid and plan to try to translate most of what he did into my 2019 Crosstrek. Just takes patience and some skill building cardboard templates first!
@@garyvarner6351 I have not started yet. I figure it's a good dead of winter project. I agree, cardboard template is the way to go!!
I thought one of these profile tools might help. www.amazon.com/dp/B083K2JQ63/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_AChOFbJ9SN7YZ
Didn't know how the back seats came out. thx for that. Question. If you just take out the the bottom of the back seat. Would the top half lay flat to sleep on?
You're welcome! Thats a good question, I had not considered trying that. I'll give it a try!
Wow, mate! Your parents definitely gave you lego at a young age. Very creative!
Haha I grew up on a farm, so I suppose maybe that helped me out. Thanks!
You make this look so easy lol. Thank you so much!! I just got a new outback I want to try car camping ib
Hey, nice build, few thoughts- the square cover and the small oval tabletop are lose ant might be a hazard during accident. You could use those carabiners to simply attach them so they would not reach front of the car. Also too long bolts. Good luck!
Good observations! Thanks
Just found your channel that is a great camping set up the best one I’ve seen so far I have a RAV4 I’m thinking about doing, how wide is your sleeping platform. Do you have a General plans that someone could used to incorporate with their vehicle, Great job
love,love,love your build Chase. Thank you for sharing and inspiring more than myself Im sure. Couple questions if u could...What was the first part u started with in the building process? Guessing platform or cubby box and than measuring everything else from that level. Was the platform from one sheet of 4'×8'? And what thickness plywood? Thank you again advance if u have the chance to respond. Maybe get to look u up when Im out west to buy you a 'thank you' beer ...or cup of Joe.
Thanks Harry! I started with the platform and built the cubby, seat and cabinet around that. It was a lot of trial and error. The platform was built with one 4'x8' sheet of 3/4" (I believe) plywood. I hope to have some plans built and available soon! Stay tuned.
Great set up, only one question ... what if you get a flat tyre on a trip, could be a major exercise to get to the spare?
Love the setup - the racks are great, too!
Thanks, Riley! They have worked well for me thus far 👍
Ok, just throwing this out there. I see great use of space inside and out but no room on top for a spare and where a spare would normally go you have the deck bolted down over the spare tire access area. What provisions have you made in case of a flat other than unloading and disassembly of the all but one of the modulars?
Maybe there's a good way to mount it up to that roof rack but I do think that if you're in such a bind, taking apart the build would just have to be an obstacle. Beats eliminating the spare entirely to make room for "storage" as I've seen other builds do lol
You are correct, It would take a little bit of disassembly. I haven't made a better plan at this point but Im not too worried about it myself.
The rood rack would be a good option, but with how infrequently I use spare tires I decided that the extra work to access it would not be too inconvenient.
Great intro, and awesome custom build!
Thank you!
You need a first aid kit, just in case:) Beautiful build. You are talented.
Yes, in the front cubby👍 Thank you!
When installing everything I notice you only used washers on one side (bottom platform) nothing on top. Did you already have washers installed there? If not it seems it could eventually wear out. Also all those bolts were so long, not that it really matters. Making instructions or a template would be nice. Good vid.
Good observation! I did embed washers into the holes on the top sides and they are recessed into the wood so the bolt head is flush with the platform.
Truly beautiful work. Clean, efficient and professional
Very Nicely build!! I have a 2016 Outback and inspired to build one! Just curious.. How do you get to the spare tire?
Oh sweeeeet - I've been thinking about doing something like this to my outback for a while - this one looks great
Thanks, Jon!
Do you do this for for other people?
I’m looking for someone to build something like this for my outback. Thanks. Pennierose@cox.net
With your passenger seat completely forward, what would the Max length for sleeping be? I am quite tall but this build is so sweet, really consider doing something similar... if I fit
With my setup I get about 76" of length. Plenty for me at just about 6' tall. I suppose I could get a few more inches.
Daaaaaaamn those bolts @ 16:32 are loooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnng!!!!
I know I know 😂
That’s impressive. We want an outback! .
Get one👍
awesome setup. not to be nit picky but you should trim those bolts. grinder or hacksaw.
Thanks! Good call, I should do that.
I noticed that you have padding on your roof rack installation, between the brackets and the factory roof bars. Have you done something similar for mounting cargo box as well? what padding is it? I am planning to use just the pipe insulation over the bar to provide 1) non slips surface, 2) cushionin, 3) protect the factory roof bar surface..
The padding on the rack brackets is what came with the rack. It works well! The cargo box does not have padded brackets.
Thanks for noticing that. I’ll have to remember paddling when I do my build someday.
Nice build. Would love to get plans and or blueprints. BTW, how long is the sleep area with the extension installed?
Thanks! If I remember correct it is 76"
I enjoyed your build. Awesome. I like the roof rack will check that out for my 2016 Outback.
Awesome! Thank you!
Me too! Can you provide a link to the roof rack. There are so many on Amazon. Thanks much! Love all you do. Best of luck!
Amazing work bud!! I recommend to put the spare tire in the roof rack for easy access just in case!
Good tip! I have considered doing that👍
Great job, but what do you do when you get a flat tire ?
Andrew Penna Thanks! I have a couple tools with me to disconnect and lift the platform👍
Can you provide detail on reinstalling the Subaru seats?
You have done fantastic work! Do you think there is enough head room to put your storage under the platform instead of to the side? I’m trying to fit two people on the bed platform. Thx
Thanks! yes, but the head room would be diminished. I have slept two people in my setup a few times and it works well.
Great job! Really nice set up.
Thanks, Ricardo!
Hey Chase, great job. If you included the link for that roof rack, I missed it, could you post again?
Dang you're a smart guy! Your family is lucky to have you!
Thanks Cory, I appreciate it. 🙏
@@ChaseChristopher1 i have a 2016 outback and love it. I'm a pretty handy guy but I wouldn't know where to start to do what you did. I'm 6'1 and have slept in the back stretched out and still have room, even with my 70lb pit. Thanks for sharing.
What a great build. Only thing I have to admit- the removal process of the seats is soo annoying tbh. My father has Škoda Yeti and you can remove the seats without screws. It’s safe, quick and easy task, just a minute to do. From what I saw all VW concern cars(which Škoda is too) has the seats like this. Still a huge fan of Subaru. Greetings from Europe. Peace
Edit: Man! Can’t stress enough how awesome this build is.
Thanks David! That would be nice. These do take removing a few bolts but it sure is easier than some other brands in which you have to remove the frame that's bolted down in multiple spots. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience, take care!