It’s been so long since I’ve given you an update on our VW transporter van build, that I actually can’t remember where I need to pick the story up for you. We ticked loads of the big bits off the wish-list over the summer – the rock ‘n’ roll pull-out bed (back seat that turns into a double bed) got fitted at the end of May, so that finally all four of us could travel in the van together. A total game changer.
Ben’s worked hard getting the electrics in place – he’s gone for a split charge relay which connects the van battery to a leisure battery. 12V distribution from the battery connects to all the electrics in the van – lights, fridge (eventually etc). We also have USB sockets spread around the van for charging purposes! This means a leisure battery (from Halfords), and the rest of the electrical stuff came from Simply Split Charge.
We hadn’t planned to get the pop top done this year, but thanks to lovely parents, we actually got this fitted in July and it is absolutely, totally and completely awesome! not only does it give us fantastic head room in the van, which will be much needed when we’ve finally fitted the kitchen area etc, but there’s a roof bed up there which the kids sleep in (it’s on gas rams so you can push it up during the day, and lower it back down at night).
With all the main bits done now, it’s just down to us to get the cupboards built. We’ll have a hob and compact sink and tap on a work surface behind the front seats, and then cupboards for storage along one side. After much discussion, sketching and research (Ben researching techy stuff online, and me trawling Instagram for ideas), Ben’s started building the frames. We also plan to clad some of the interior with cedar panelling. We intend for it to look quite different to a standard van conversion, so I’m excited to start the next phase of the build. Don’t forget to follow youngvanadventures on IG for more regular updates!
The specifics:
Windows – fitted by Stirling Auto
Pop top – fitted by Skyline Roofs
Rock ‘n’ Roll pull-out bed – manufactured and fitted by Cannon’s Forge
Flooring – Atrafloor, installed ourselves on top of 18mm ply sub floor
Insulation – a mixture of wool and foil-backed foam, plus sound-deadening Silent Coat
Carpeting – silver four-way-stretch carpet from eBay, installed ourselves using high temperature glue
115Ah leisure battery – installed ourselves under the driver’s seat
I’m very jealous of the pop top! We are doing work on our van too which is the same size and I am enjoying following your conversions; I’m especially in love with that flooring 🙂
Kasia
This is a great project, I wish I could do things of that style, although it can be said that traveling is a true way of life.
Greetings and thanks.
A beautiful project with a very modern design. The color composition of the photos and the light are excellent. Congratulations for this excellent work.