Having just started my sprinter overland build, it can be overwhelming. I’m a retired building contractor and decided to go all out with 8020, full off grid electrical capabilities, all the exterior goodies. Doing everything myself. Biggest benefit of diy is knowing exactly how everything is built, and saving a ton of $$$.
Yeah, im still rolling on the stock tires, i chose to build my interior 1st, slowly, spent the 1st month sleeping on a cot in there, building a van really isnt difficult, with so many options to buy pre cut flooring, wall panels, cabinets etc.. its just assembling all the components
There are several differences in quality when buying kits. Just beware of the kit and type of wood. If it doesn't have a marine grade core you could be in for some issues in the future. Details matter and some just don';t understand the difference. We hope to provide that information to folks wether buy from us or someone else. Thanks for the input!
@Serg_supply its all marine grade birch ply floor, walls, ceiling , fvc galley, and bed system, i didn't want a wood bed platform for the bed and I like the aluminum skin fvc uses on their galley, im still lacking main cabinets, but I purchased an open face shelf cabinet from veritas that works great for above the bed, i dont want cabinets everywhere, what I really need is wheel well boxes built to fit my needs and fit under the fvc bed.. all the boxes im finding are made for, or you can only buy them with a specific bed system
Truth on so many levels. I built high-end custom homes in Silicon Valley for years, crafting stunning multi-million-dollar properties. I’ve seen my share of contractors who put the ‘CON’ in ‘contractor,’ and it’s wild how UA-cam lets anyone with an iPhone or GoPro post their nonsense. Respect for cutting through the noise and sharing a valid, smart approach to getting, building, and enjoying your van. The lack of maturity-both in business sense and skills-among many UA-cam van builders (home builders/remodeled too) is downright cringe-worthy. Thanks for keeping it honest and real. Kudos for the focus on safety too!!
Couldn't agree more on the slow build. We did ours about 70% done for the first year, did a bunch of trips, didnt finish the cabinet skins/drawers/etc. Realized things we want to change the layout, pulled out the FVCO bed and sold it, putting in a murphy with VS capsules and upgraded our power system capacity.
Good stuff in here! We're fixing power systems and wiring harnesses all the time which led to our crazy new mil-spec wiring harness we put into new builds
Thank you so,much for being direct! I have worked on my Sprinter 144 Crew model van for a year, had professionals do an ,Arctic Tern awning window.,an Arctic Tern opening skylight, and cut in for shore power. Nine months later, after,doing basic prep myself, I had the same Western Washington company do a,simply electrical system. I purchased a Bestek 2000W inverter and a few other components and had the professionals do the install. Most of my camping so far has been with hookups, and with used,cabinets holding an Isotherm frig and a great narrow deep sink, camping has been great. The configuration changes, and Will be modular, easy to remove. The van must be versatile! I very much enjoy your suggestions, as these vans can get expensive! I am trying to buy only what I need, and have spent a,lot just,on connectors: rivnuts, bolts, washers, L TRACK and accessories for L track, magnetic puck lights, more,nuts, screws, bolts. Crazy. I am having fun
Hi Dimitri, I totally get what you're saying here on this video. I'm taking my sweet old time building my van. This is my first van build with the help of my daughter. Originally I wanted to get the Tesla Cybertruck, because like you say, to me it's cool looking, but got frustrated with the wait. Then when the Ford Transit Trail came out, I decided to use my funds on the Trail instead. But then the whole drama of the recalls and the wait became frustrating as well. I had ordered in Feb 2024 and still did not have a build date as of Aug 2024. A friend of mine from Utah suggested I cancel my order and order in Kansas City dealer where the transit factory is nearby. I called on a Monday and ordered exactly what I wanted and by Wednesday I got a build date from the Ford Factory. The order was placed on Aug 12 and my van was built by Sept 24. Made arrangements and rearranged my schedule and by Oct 9th, I flew in with a friend and picked it up and drove it across Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada and back to California. It was an adventure and loved it. Also, picked up some parts along the way to save on shipping cost. I have gone camping 3 times already and yes when you're actually out, you start to notice things that you need or don't need on a full build van. But I love your products and so I picked up your ceiling kit and capsule trim rings from The Van Mart yesterday and met the crew over there. Also saw your transit van build that you did in less than a week. That was awesome! Met Chris, Christine, and Brent. Also, damn your pallet building is legit! hahaha. I am documenting everything with my daughter and will hopefully start posting our experience on our first van build. Thx and I really enjoy your videos, comments and jokes.
I'm about halfway thru my first adventure van build, 2024 Transit 350HD 148" high roof. I just retired and I'm having a blast using my engineering and fabrication skills. I've been immersing myself in van content on UA-cam for the last 3 months. I bellied up to the bar and installed a full Victron system from Nate, along with Battle Born batteries. While the cost was a tough pill to swallow, I'm considering it the backbone of my build. My design is a modular build that will allow certain things to be removed if I need the van for other stuff. Also using a lot of 80/20, no structural wood, as I've got experience using it to build stuff on factory assembly lines. I really like what you offer, design & materials appear top notch. Unfortunately, most is out of my price range by a factor of 2 or 3. 🙁
@@Serg_supply Please don't get me wrong, I'm not saying your products aren't worth what you're asking. I realize what it takes to design and tool up for stuff like this, especially in relative low volumes. If money was less of an obstacle for me, I totally see the value in getting high-quality, well-designed products that basically just plug-n-play into my van. I'm the king of over-engineering and tedious fabrication...but just don't ask me to build a second or third. 🤣
In 4 years, people can learn a lot, as in getting a college degree. Some,people,just want to go teaveling, so keep it safe but basic. Some,folks want swanky, expensive to impress their friends; and then there are woodworkers who spend every waking moment tweeking amazing cabinets. Vans are a depreciating asset, and it is easy to forget why we bought one in the first place: to go outside and enjoy gorgeous locations in a small footprint. My late husband and I camped in a VW 2001 Eurovan basic MV, no pop top, for 12 years. Remember the basics and have fun.
Thank you for this video. Wish more van builders would put out honest, straight forward advice or information for those interested in this trend. We need more videos like this and less of the van porn dominating the industry.
This was really informative. I'm not well enough to build my van out so I had to pay someone to do it for me (far under that unattainable $150k price tag). I wish I'd known to ask about the electrical but I did pretty well on everything else you said.
If you're going to be traveling for weeks or months at a time a shower is a good option to consider. There have been many times we've been hiking in less than desirable weather and having the ability to come back to a warm dry van and get cleaned up is invaluable. We stay away from big cities so 24 hr. fitness places are not an option for us. We have a stowaway shower system so it doesn't take up any room when not in use.
What are your thoughts on all of the seating options out there, and the general lack of testing or specific safety standards? Planning my build and a seat for my daughter and it seems like the smartfloor is my only legit option.
Think usefulness and being versatile. An army cot & sleeping bag, an ice chest, a comfortable folding chair. A Sturdy enclosed box for canned goods. Straps to secure all of the above. Sound deaden the interior surfaces, perhaps some sort of durable, easily removable and washable carpeting. Now you have plenty of remaining space for a few bicycles, tools and a dog carrier. 🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼🫡
Excellent "TED" talk! Would only disagree on not washing! Some of us like a shower :) However, that only reflects a difference between the US and EU on the availability of 24hr gyms.... As to the philosophy shared and leasons learnt - invaluable and encouraging; wish had heard this at the start of my journey. Nonetheless, even at this stage, wise words can learn from.Thank you.
On electrical system. Victron mppt's are so much cheaper than they use to. It's pointless to buy anything else. But batteries, i bought no name LFP batteries batteries but i did my research and they have Eve cells in them with a Bluetooth JBD BMS. $210 each last year. Now they're $170. Bluetooth everything. No need for monitors, shutoffs etc. it's all in the app. I also found 100w panels that put out more than 100w for $70 each. Read the reviews. Ignorance buys what everyone is buying. Research and save.
You started in 2021 and in 4 years you’re an expert? I never liked talking head videos with self proclaimed experts talking up their version of the right way to do it. I see that you got some friends to post reviews below.
We appreciate your kind words and understand your frustration. Thank for making what we do worth while and supporting us through comments! Much appreciated.
@@Serg_supplydelete my negative comment. Take it for what it’s worth. I don’t normally flame anyone. I’ve been building vans since 1975 and I don’t know it all. I’m a vo-tech trained cabinet maker and had a full career as a mechanical design engineer. Still don’t know know it all.
![Chris Langan - The Interview THEY Didn't Want You To See - CTMU [Full Version; Timestamps]](/img/n.gif)
Having just started my sprinter overland build, it can be overwhelming. I’m a retired building contractor and decided to go all out with 8020, full off grid electrical capabilities, all the exterior goodies. Doing everything myself. Biggest benefit of diy is knowing exactly how everything is built, and saving a ton of $$$.
We agree with this entirely!
Great then I can buy your van for pennies on the dollar. It's Uber hard to sell diy vans😢
As a customer looking for a finished van, it would be awesome to see a list of builders offering "under-priced and high-quality" 🙂
Suggestion noted! Thanks for the comment.
Yeah, im still rolling on the stock tires, i chose to build my interior 1st, slowly, spent the 1st month sleeping on a cot in there, building a van really isnt difficult, with so many options to buy pre cut flooring, wall panels, cabinets etc.. its just assembling all the components
There are several differences in quality when buying kits. Just beware of the kit and type of wood. If it doesn't have a marine grade core you could be in for some issues in the future. Details matter and some just don';t understand the difference. We hope to provide that information to folks wether buy from us or someone else. Thanks for the input!
@Serg_supply its all marine grade birch ply floor, walls, ceiling , fvc galley, and bed system, i didn't want a wood bed platform for the bed and I like the aluminum skin fvc uses on their galley, im still lacking main cabinets, but I purchased an open face shelf cabinet from veritas that works great for above the bed, i dont want cabinets everywhere, what I really need is wheel well boxes built to fit my needs and fit under the fvc bed.. all the boxes im finding are made for, or you can only buy them with a specific bed system
Truth on so many levels. I built high-end custom homes in Silicon Valley for years, crafting stunning multi-million-dollar properties. I’ve seen my share of contractors who put the ‘CON’ in ‘contractor,’ and it’s wild how UA-cam lets anyone with an iPhone or GoPro post their nonsense. Respect for cutting through the noise and sharing a valid, smart approach to getting, building, and enjoying your van. The lack of maturity-both in business sense and skills-among many UA-cam van builders (home builders/remodeled too) is downright cringe-worthy. Thanks for keeping it honest and real. Kudos for the focus on safety too!!
We know what you mean all to well! Thanks for the comment and support!
So much truth in this. I fully support and endorse this message!!!
Thank you, Zeke!
Couldn't agree more on the slow build. We did ours about 70% done for the first year, did a bunch of trips, didnt finish the cabinet skins/drawers/etc. Realized things we want to change the layout, pulled out the FVCO bed and sold it, putting in a murphy with VS capsules and upgraded our power system capacity.
This is exactly what we mean when we say take it slow!
Good stuff in here! We're fixing power systems and wiring harnesses all the time which led to our crazy new mil-spec wiring harness we put into new builds
Nice! Glad there's companies and people looking to make a difference not just a profit.
Thank you so,much for being direct! I have worked on my Sprinter 144 Crew model van for a year, had professionals do an ,Arctic Tern awning window.,an Arctic Tern opening skylight, and cut in for shore power. Nine months later, after,doing basic prep myself, I had the same Western Washington company do a,simply electrical system. I purchased a Bestek 2000W inverter and a few other components and had the professionals do the install. Most of my camping so far has been with hookups, and with used,cabinets holding an Isotherm frig and a great narrow deep sink, camping has been great. The configuration changes, and Will be modular, easy to remove. The van must be versatile! I very much enjoy your suggestions, as these vans can get expensive! I am trying to buy only what I need, and have spent a,lot just,on connectors: rivnuts, bolts, washers, L TRACK and accessories for L track, magnetic puck lights, more,nuts, screws, bolts. Crazy. I am having fun
Glad you found it helpful!
This is good advise.
Hi Dimitri, I totally get what you're saying here on this video. I'm taking my sweet old time building my van. This is my first van build with the help of my daughter. Originally I wanted to get the Tesla Cybertruck, because like you say, to me it's cool looking, but got frustrated with the wait. Then when the Ford Transit Trail came out, I decided to use my funds on the Trail instead. But then the whole drama of the recalls and the wait became frustrating as well. I had ordered in Feb 2024 and still did not have a build date as of Aug 2024. A friend of mine from Utah suggested I cancel my order and order in Kansas City dealer where the transit factory is nearby. I called on a Monday and ordered exactly what I wanted and by Wednesday I got a build date from the Ford Factory. The order was placed on Aug 12 and my van was built by Sept 24. Made arrangements and rearranged my schedule and by Oct 9th, I flew in with a friend and picked it up and drove it across Kansas, Colorado, Utah, Nevada and back to California. It was an adventure and loved it. Also, picked up some parts along the way to save on shipping cost. I have gone camping 3 times already and yes when you're actually out, you start to notice things that you need or don't need on a full build van. But I love your products and so I picked up your ceiling kit and capsule trim rings from The Van Mart yesterday and met the crew over there. Also saw your transit van build that you did in less than a week. That was awesome! Met Chris, Christine, and Brent. Also, damn your pallet building is legit! hahaha. I am documenting everything with my daughter and will hopefully start posting our experience on our first van build. Thx and I really enjoy your videos, comments and jokes.
Sounds like the adventure has already started! Congrats on the van and thank you for your support!
I'm about halfway thru my first adventure van build, 2024 Transit 350HD 148" high roof. I just retired and I'm having a blast using my engineering and fabrication skills. I've been immersing myself in van content on UA-cam for the last 3 months. I bellied up to the bar and installed a full Victron system from Nate, along with Battle Born batteries. While the cost was a tough pill to swallow, I'm considering it the backbone of my build. My design is a modular build that will allow certain things to be removed if I need the van for other stuff. Also using a lot of 80/20, no structural wood, as I've got experience using it to build stuff on factory assembly lines.
I really like what you offer, design & materials appear top notch. Unfortunately, most is out of my price range by a factor of 2 or 3. 🙁
Sounds like you have a solid plan and we appreciate the comment!
@@Serg_supply Please don't get me wrong, I'm not saying your products aren't worth what you're asking. I realize what it takes to design and tool up for stuff like this, especially in relative low volumes. If money was less of an obstacle for me, I totally see the value in getting high-quality, well-designed products that basically just plug-n-play into my van. I'm the king of over-engineering and tedious fabrication...but just don't ask me to build a second or third. 🤣
In 4 years, people can learn a lot, as in getting a college degree. Some,people,just want to go teaveling, so keep it safe but basic. Some,folks want swanky, expensive to impress their friends; and then there are woodworkers who spend every waking moment tweeking amazing cabinets.
Vans are a depreciating asset, and it is easy to forget why we bought one in the first place: to go outside and enjoy gorgeous locations in a small footprint.
My late husband and I camped in a VW 2001 Eurovan basic MV, no pop top, for 12 years. Remember the basics and have fun.
Sounds like epic adventures were had! Thank for the comment!
Thank you for this video. Wish more van builders would put out honest, straight forward advice or information for those interested in this trend. We need more videos like this and less of the van porn dominating the industry.
This was really informative. I'm not well enough to build my van out so I had to pay someone to do it for me (far under that unattainable $150k price tag). I wish I'd known to ask about the electrical but I did pretty well on everything else you said.
Glad to hear it!
I’ve never hurt my head on a vander moon overhead cabinet. Also no noise.
Neither have we!
If you're going to be traveling for weeks or months at a time a shower is a good option to consider. There have been many times we've been hiking in less than desirable weather and having the ability to come back to a warm dry van and get cleaned up is invaluable. We stay away from big cities so 24 hr. fitness places are not an option for us. We have a stowaway shower system so it doesn't take up any room when not in use.
Thanks for the comment!
Ruffling feathers? Now you're talking my language.
lol 🙌🏻
Awesome vid
Thank you!
What are your thoughts on all of the seating options out there, and the general lack of testing or specific safety standards? Planning my build and a seat for my daughter and it seems like the smartfloor is my only legit option.
We use JMG in all our builds. Hopefully that helps! You can find them on our website.
Think usefulness and being versatile.
An army cot & sleeping bag, an ice chest, a comfortable folding chair.
A Sturdy enclosed box for canned goods.
Straps to secure all of the above.
Sound deaden the interior surfaces, perhaps some sort of durable, easily removable and washable carpeting.
Now you have plenty of remaining space for a few bicycles, tools and a dog carrier.
🚴🏼🚴🏼🚴🏼🫡
Indeed! Thanks for the comment!
Yeah. Some of these prices just make me lol. But what I will say is they are like this because someone is paying it!!!
I appreciate the straightforward approach/talk.
I love the sink on your website too -never seen one quite like it...any discount codes though? 😊👀
Send us an email and we may be able to work something out!
Yep!! loved all this sage like info... Thanks for your help and advice over the last several months bro... 🚐😎🤙
Anytime!
Excellent "TED" talk!
Would only disagree on not washing! Some of us like a shower :) However, that only reflects a difference between the US and EU on the availability of 24hr gyms....
As to the philosophy shared and leasons learnt - invaluable and encouraging; wish had heard this at the start of my journey. Nonetheless, even at this stage, wise words can learn from.Thank you.
Thank you for the comment and we appreciate your support!
On electrical system. Victron mppt's are so much cheaper than they use to. It's pointless to buy anything else. But batteries, i bought no name LFP batteries batteries but i did my research and they have Eve cells in them with a Bluetooth JBD BMS. $210 each last year. Now they're $170. Bluetooth everything. No need for monitors, shutoffs etc. it's all in the app. I also found 100w panels that put out more than 100w for $70 each. Read the reviews.
Ignorance buys what everyone is buying. Research and save.
Nice! We appreciate the input!
You started in 2021 and in 4 years you’re an expert? I never liked talking head videos with self proclaimed experts talking up their version of the right way to do it. I see that you got some friends to post reviews below.
Negative much?
Negative much?
We appreciate your kind words and understand your frustration. Thank for making what we do worth while and supporting us through comments! Much appreciated.
@@Serg_supplysorry man, bad day, you remind me a lot of someone I don’t like. Good luck with your business.
@@Serg_supplydelete my negative comment. Take it for what it’s worth. I don’t normally flame anyone. I’ve been building vans since 1975 and I don’t know it all. I’m a vo-tech trained cabinet maker and had a full career as a mechanical design engineer. Still don’t know know it all.
Yea, lots of build trash out there.
Agreed!