Nissan NV200 Compact Campervan (self build) small camper motorhome (similar to VW T4, T5 or Bongo)
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- Опубліковано 2 жов 2024
- Photos of build and video of completed full campervan conversion on a Nissan NV200. This is a small van, and the conversion is bongo/VW t4 or t5 style, but fully equipped and high spec.
how funny! one of the company's who convert the nv200 have watched this and keep trying to spam this post with links to their own offerings. the same company who point blank refused to help me at the start with a question i had about how they did their water tank as I wanted to buy it off therm. got told they don't offer any help or bits. so hence i commissioned my own custom design tank. their design also had a few flaws that made the van unusable for our needs showing how personalisation is important in a small van. it's not that difficult and others have done similar but different. the only similarity is we've all enjoyed the process and saved around 50% off the converters price and ended up with something more personal and better spec. so to the commercial converters had you given me 5 mins of your time at the start or even posted a nice comment then I'd have left your link and ad in place. but trying to link 3 times in 24 hours is a bit rude and flagged as spam. I appreciate the interest and you learning how it should be done but no copying the ideas! PS as always I'm happy to help and give tips, and more info on blog. which reminds me there are links there I need remove too.
You've done a really EXCELLENT job with your van... I imagine they feel a little threatened by you? ...Maybe they should hire you on, before one of their competitors do. ;) Good luck and much success in all that you do....
Thanks Paula, what a lovely comment! Do remember we don't show the cock ups. They may be threatened but not by me, there are others who have done neater conversions (see links above) that look more expertly done. But I think its how "personal" something of this size needs to be - don't think one-build-fits-all as it would do in a bigger van. Its also funny since I posted this post they've stopped spamming lol
which company is taht? i wanna go laugh at them
Couldn't say :) But a large seller based in the south coast with a county sounding name :)
Ryan I'd just delete there comments and block them then it will stop them being able to comment on your videos.
This sets new standards in self build in my opinion. A fantastic, creative achievement and a lot of joined up thinking has obviously gone into this project. Glad to be the first to congratulate you, a fellow NV200 campervan advocate. Dinkum
Thanks Dinkum! Comment much appreciated, though I should say a lot of it was luck and "ooooh - that fits well! :) Dinkum has a blog dvickers1955.wordpress.com/ which we studied and got ideas from before we bought, and his conversion showed us what could be done and what we needed to amend for our needs - really helpful. Thanks :)
WOW !!! YOU'RE A GENIUS !!! YOU DOWN PLAY YOUR EFFORTS AT THE BEGINNING .... BUT THIS WHOLE THING IS SOOO PROFESSIONAL !!! LOVE EVERY INCH OF WHAT YOU DID WITH THIS LITTLE PLACE . THANKS FOR SHARING . HAVE THE BEST ADVENTURES IN YOUR TINY TRAVELLING HOME . YOU SURE DESERVE IT , AFTER ALL THAT WORK AND THOUGHT . ;-)
Very kind, thank you
I have NEVER seen such a spectacular conversion in such a small van...and, I thought I had seen them all! Your craftsmanship is definitely beyond compare! To look at it one would think it was manufactured within a company who prided itself in total perfection! A very beautiful build, and, one I'm certainly sure you are very proud of...and you SHOULD be...simply put, it's just fantastic! Thanks for sharing. I hope to soon be living full time in a Canadian made class b van (Roadtrek 190), of course being larger than yours, though. Waving all the way from Houston, Texas, USA!
Very kind words, thanks!
TOTALLY RELAXED! : Are you living in the Roadtrek now?
Go Lightly > no not as yet..I’m still waiting on a settlement to hit my bank account. When it does I’ll be purchasing then.
TOTALLY RELAXED! : i hope it happens for you!
best mini DIY camper I have seen.
Thanks!
Amazing job - very impressive! I have an NV200 which I would like to try to convert into a camper. Your video and blog are very helpful. I was hoping you could advise me with regard to the route of the wiring between the starter and leisure battery. Your blog shows the cable from the starter battery in the engine bay through a gromet in the bulk head but how did you route the cable through the dash board and front seats area through to the back of the vehicle? Many thanks!
Thanks. It came out in behind the glovebox, then under the floor to between the seats then above the floor in conduit behind drivers seat, kitchen, to the CTEK D250 charger
@@Ryan_DYD Thank you for replying! Much appreciated!
You should make it so that the kitchen is Dual sided. That way you can open the Sliding door and the kitchen will be usable from the inside as well as from the Outside :) Youre 90% there already.
This build is by far the best DIY minivan camper I've seen by a very very large margin. This van looks factory built. Honestly I'm amazed at the engineering and design all wrapped in a very high level of fit and finish. Makes a lot of the other home conversions I've seen on youtube look mish mash. This could be easily the best and highest quality conversion on UA-cam and in real life.
Thanks Mike - appreciate you taking time to type such kind words! Though, as mentioned, don't look too close! It does work for us though - and I think the key thing to remember - is I designed it for "us". 90% of others won't fit or accept the compromises. So its not perfect. But love your kind words :) Thanks
I agree. This conversion is second to none.
This is rather magnificent, Ryan and Mel. I wish I had your skills. A lovely conversion. Enjoy!😎
Skills can be learned from UA-cam and something like the SBMCC forum. Overall its a complex build but each part is reasonably simple. There is enough advice and build blogs on line to help you plan, and an average DIYer can do it. Do remember, we didn't highlight the mistakes on the video lol
OMG! This is amazing. We just bought the Chevy City express, which is basically the Nissan NV200... Ive been looking for builds on youtube, and this one is amazing! Thank you for sharing!!
Good luck! Think the US version is slightly bigger too :)
This is really nice. I want to use this van and make one
Wow - still surprised 410,782 views! I know maybe 400,000 are the parents, but even so....! Anyone who likes this may be interested to know I'm designing another campervan build on a MWB with *full* facilities (including bathroom/wet room) *and* internal garage for 2 bikes and snowboards :) Utilising a few tricks I've learned on this build. Watch this space over the coming weeks (please subscribe for updates!). Only in CAD for now, planning 2020/21 build
Wow! Over 100,000 views! I expected nearer 100 lol :)
And a “Save” for reference on my own forthcoming build. Thank you!
@@mrstarstuff Good luck! Get onto the NV200 facebook groups and get some other ideas too :)
great video great conversion .... how great would this be on the nissan 200 electric with all that power to use like home...
Some conversions do exist on the ENV - but not sure they'd do out 5000 mile 6 week trip up beyond the arctic circle mostly wildcamping. One day....! :)
And another SUPERB DIY conversion, really impressed, see nv200forum.com/9-camper-vans-conversions/4329-finished-campervan-conversion.html (also sbmcc.co.uk/forum/index.php?/topic/49100-photos-of-my-finished-nv200/#comment-1224913 ) - No commercial maker could make such a personal build.- and you can see the female touch has been added!
Amazingly clean build!
NV200 Camper is the best
Thank you for your helpful customization
NV200 & jackrus sellterrier UA-cam, but please drop in if you like
Excellent job! Very neat and professional. Love the seat jack idea to help return the seat to the upright position. Hoping to build one someday but I don't know what the regs are here in Greece. Being from the States we have no trouble doing custom builds but these fools over here want to control every aspect of ones private affairs.
So go back
You did a great job on this I cant tell that it wasnt factory built,
HIGH QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP, WELL DONE GOOD SIR!
Thanks, don't look too close :)
F****** BRAVO sir, I have examined AT LEAST 10,000 stealth micro-camper setups and your NV200 setup is in the top 10, maybe top 5 (not having a bathroom is the only big issue I can see, and there is DEFINITELY room for a wetbath in your rig, I have SEEN IT MYSELF in this same model). Your design is intelligent, sleek, privy, economical, and stylish, and it is obvious you did what so many do not, RESEARCH, RESEARCH A LOT, and then RESEARCH SOME MORE. Well f****** done sir.
Thanks! No idea why your reply only appeared in my comment list after a month (!). But thanks for comments. There is a porta poti thing and I confess we have had "showers" in there lol - was a bit messy but hair wash over sink and a few wet towels later..... This van is now sold on and I've made another, bigger but smaller than most, with full wetroom/bathroom, internal garage for bikes, etc. But is bigger.
Amazing. I'm jealous 😊. I plan to buy a NV200 for conversion too. I won't be able to do your job.
Why not? And anyway, my build is for me - yours will be different. NOTHING in it is impossible. I was dreading the furniture, but watched loads on youtube and had a go.... Plenty of how-to guides and forums.... Do research and don't say never.....! Be positive! :)
Beautiful Van! Depending on what happens in the next few weeks I might be doing a conversion for weekend camping adventures and day to day car use.
Good luck! Lots of variants on what I did - Facebook has some good NV200 groups with alternatives
That's just an awesome build. Looks almost unreal for a DIY project. Respect
Thank you very much indeed! Very kind. Now sold and in middle of an other bigger build...
Stunningly beautiful! Can't say enough about how amazing this is.
Thank you! Cheers!
it looks good but is to small for me. i have a toyota coaster im working on to be a motorhome. you can see my videos on youtube. it will be on the road one day soon. it needs a lot of work on it.
Excellent and informative video, - I have cribbed most supplier names for my own build - thankyou.
Great job pal, I’ve just picked a nv200 up, start conversion mon, done a few Vw transporters and a couple large boxer vans, but nothing this small. Pleased ive seen your video. Some good ideas ref little storage areas etc .
Can I just ask as the first hurdle I’ve hit is a R&R bed. That will allow the fitting of the width of fridge etc in unit, how wide is yours? Was it a specific nv200 one? Ie lower etc thanks
The bed was custom made, so had the corner cut off the back, custom width and length and height :) Rake was adjustable.
All a compromise - the height was a little higher than "ideal" but meant we could (just) get a Fiamma bi-pot 30 loo under the front. It was 1m wide (cosy) and 165 long (to allow loo to be used when down).
I HIGHLY recommend VW Rusty Lee - he made the bed mm perfect and at a very fair price. The bed, for us, was the most essential thing in the van as everything fitted around it.
Hope thats useful - good luck! (ps more pics and info on blog - www.doyourdream.co.uk
.
I worry that the blue light would be less model for sleep than a red one. might even keep you awake. Additionally, red is less likely to arouse suspicion, as it is unlikely to penetrate the tint on the exposed side window.
Any thoughts to adding a viewer for the 3 cameras in the camping compartment?
We'd never have the light on overnight, but its just bright enough for when watching a movie etc on laptop and not wanting normal light. Saying that, the light also dims We didn't buy it for the blue, it was just there! Our cameras are linked to the in-built OEM dash. For a DIY version I'd make a switchbox and a cheap ebay LCD monitor. Maybe buy a camera with screen then add switch and other cameras. But I'd not bother for security, ours are just for parking.
When you work in the trim industry you kinda’ push the definition of ‘self build’ past the point of truthfulness.
But that’s a wonderful build. I’ll never show it to my wife or she’ll lack any appreciation at all for my NV200’s conversion. 😂
lol. Very kind comment, thanks for taking the time to cheer me up!
Beautiful conversion! Thanks for sharing⚘
Thanks :) We're enjoying it wildcamping as we type :)
Thank you for providing the details of the equipment you fitted. Very informative. Great job, both with the van and the vid!
You say you can use the loo when the bed is in place. How is this done? I ask as here in NZ you have to be able to use the loo with the bed in place to be able to camp in it, rules hay!! I have a Env200
Ah -- fair point. Front pax seat rotated or facing forward - but slid towards engine a bit. Fiama bi-bot 30 loo that faces the "side". Bed out. Tight (but we're little) - but fits and usable (fold back quilt!). Feet in floor space. Loo roll in mini cupboard by fridge. bed is shorter than normal to allow this, but not a problem for us - I don't mind
Amazing! Really good work. Im going to copy your idea for my build. Thanks so much for sharing.
Top job mate. One of the best self builds I have seen. Just out of interest what are the dimensions of the bed. Can a six footer sleep in it ? Thanks for sharing. Regards Dave
Hi Dave. Thanks. See the other links I've posted too - both very very good and different. DVLA regs say bed must be 1.8m long, but we didn't get measured. You CAN get a 6' bed in the van - but our bed is higher than normal to get loo in, and shorter than normal so the loo can be used with bed down. The load area is 2.04m MAX - the loo is 40cm. So I'll let you work it out! (The frame is 8cm shorter than that though as the cushions over hang). So my GUT FEEL says our conversion IS NOT suitable for you. You would overhang the bed and bang your head on the roof when sitting on the bed. IF you had a normal bed (slightly lower and slightly longer) it may be okay but then you lose the loo ability. Its all compromises. No idea on the heights with the other beds, you'll need to ask them. Hope this helps
Superb. Thanks for all information on your website
This is a perfect example of what a stealth van should look like. I've always wondered why people add water / electrical connections & various vents on the outside and still call it "stealth". By directing the vents & connections through the floor you've done an excellent job of disguising it. If the solar panels & ceiling vent were mounted on a taller van (Ford Transit / Sprinter / Ram ProMaster) it would be truly stealthy. Even a low profile AC unit might be able to be hidden. Again - an excellent job . I'm a retired Mechanical Engineer & inventor so my hat is off to you for such a great conversion.
Thanks :) Though looking stealthy has a downside when someone thinks you aren't in it and tries to nick your bikes!!! (!!)
WOW! Congratulations on an outstanding job. Martha from Texas
This build is the GOAT! But I would love a tour with better (not one-handed) filming. I got a bit seasick watching.
Thanks, I do have lots of complaints of the filming. Sorry :( I am a DIY van builder and only have a crap mobile phone :( This van is now with new owners and I've built a bigger one. The NV200 layout worked really well and it was sad to sell, but had to for personal reasons :(
Why aren’t they made that way to begin.these people do a better job.
Thank you!
@@Ryan_DYD 👍👩🏻
A brilliant design and patent everything!!! Absolutely awesome.
This is the cleanest build/walk-around I have seen. I hope you and yours have been successfully and stealthily banging your heads for the last three years. I did realize that the NV is probably too small for me and my Mel, (yup, I got one too : ) . . . very grateful to you for that!!
Brilliant work!
:) Nice to read - thanks for nice comments! We will be doing a bigger van next year to higher spec - watch this space
Bounce around.. eh eh .. i know what you are doing.. naughty naughty... stop jumping on the bed.. you'll break it..
lol. Have to admit, it was a little awkward in this van, having to stick legs in random places - but it was possible :) Did get a bit hot n sweaty - but no one came knocking :D
*A 'major bow & hand-flourish' to you, Sir!'*
*I see 'Minivan Campers' here in America from $40K to $60K++ that DO NOT offer the features you built-in, and 'built better' than the factory product by far!*
( *I think your electric-supply would be enough for a 'smallish Casino'* )
*In the U.S. you would need a 'power-roof vent' like 'Maxx Air' because the UK and most of Europe don't have enough sustained heat to need one, and here you would 'suffer the tortures of the Damned' without a high-powered vent-fan*
( I would just hang a curtain w/a tension-rod where 'all the bits & bobs' are showing behind the slider-door, or perhaps some veneered
thin material for 'looks' and maybe a small 'outside swing-up table' attached via a piano-hinge for 'outside food prep' that's messy)
*Personally, I would add a 'Pop-up Roof' if I had your caravan....headroom is always a 'plus' and being able to stand-up straight while inside is 'just peachy' in my book*
Thanks. We did have a fan that clipped into the skylight which was "ok" - but yes, in a heatwave it was hot! Sold van now though, and finished a bigger better spec one with same roof fan, more electrics (and more casino bling!) and you can stand up n shower :) See my other vids if interested.
@@Ryan_DYD *Sounds great!* *Eventually a 'point of diminishing return' is reached w/a smaller wheelbase vehicle and then it's time to 'move-up' to 'bigger'*
*My 'rule-of-thumb' is "If it won't fit in a standard garage...it's too big'*
(In the U.S. many people have a 'Carport' in a driveway alongside the house, and they are excellent at protecting a vehicle from exposure to sun and rain and ice...mine works great at a very low cost)
*I like the 'Road-Trek' camper lay-out inside and would love to own one but they are so expensive I won't live long enough to ever afford one, so 'home-built' is the only option for me, and why not make it as well as you can so you can enjoy it and not 'do without'* (I'm 67)
*I have the 'ultimate American Dream' of owning my house...but a 'tricked-out Camper' is always a 'good thing' too*
I know nothing about van conversions .. but I know genius ingenuity and craftsmanship when I see it .. whatever you do for a living if it isn't van conversions ..give it up your in the wrong job
What kind comments! I'm a self employed (ish) IT guy with average DIY skills. I certainly am far away from a craftsman lol - just have clever ways of covering up :) I'm in the middle of van#2 build - feel free to look at other videos and see that. A lot more complex and challenging. Guess I like the daily puzzles (aka frustrations!)
If you can hold the camera steady this will be a great video!
What I can't get over is how "factory" it looks. It's like something a solid conversion company would do at Nissan's behest. Particularly impressed by the rear seat/bed. Shockingly good.
What a nice comment, thanks. Be aware I didn't build the bed - I used "VW Rusty Lee" to make the bed to my spec, but its based on his pre-existing VW 3/4 bed. Built superbly and mm accurate. We just did the design and boards that I got foamed/covered by a mate (SW auto trimming).
Late to the show, but this is amazing, I'm strongly considering building a nv200 camper in the next 6mo. I'm a twitch streamer so I need something that supports PC gaming with maybe tradeoffs elsewhere. Anyways thanks so much for doing this and providing a construction blog!
Thanks James! Make sure you have lots of batteries for gaming!
Are you an Engineer or Magician? This is so good, hard to believe on guy can do this! Wow!
lol! No, I'm an IT consultant. Research. Research. Seek 1000s bits of advice. Ignore 80% you get. But the remaining 20% is essential. SBMCC site/forum gave me enough technical insight that I then read up on and tweaked for me. Without the advice from that site, and 3-6mths on google I'd not have been possible.
Excellent design and build. Looks amazing. I couldn’t stop laughing about your comment about almost getting booted out of the self build forum. LOL. Awesome!!
Glad it was funny - but I can't recall what I said! Should be careful as I've rejoined (different ID I hasten to add!) The paid self build forum has a better ratio of knowledge vs muppets compared to, say, facebook groups :)
The van is great! Thanks for sharing. How much to build me one lol? I was considering buying a new nv 200 with the idea of converting it to a camper van. Thought I would have a quick check and see if anyone else had done one.
What's it like multiple hours on a motorway and hills if you don't mind me asking? Lots of hills where I am.
You couldn't afford me :) (Or in other words, there is lots you can amend and cover up in DIY - not so much if you did it for others). There are a couple of facebook groups focused on DIY NV200 campers - huge variety of quality, budgets and ideas. I'm not alone - so get on there for ideas :) Good luck
We tend to avoid motorway, and don't "speed" - but even laiden 70 is "easy" and even hills are OK. I would say the 89bhp on alpine hills is pushed a bit - it drives up them well and never felt slow, but you don't have power to overtake up the hill. But overall, it drives well. If you are a "fast driver" then yes, limited. Normal - never feels slow (e.g. in 30, we do 30 (honest) - hit NSL and we put foot down, and it can drop the cars behind). Its not sluggish but won't win 0-60 :)
@@Ryan_DYD Thanks for getting back to me👍
Beautiful! 💗 I've been thinking of getting this vehicle for my camper, and it was curious how you find the "standing space" for cooking? I realize one can sit while cooking, but I would like the option to stand even if it's hunched lol
Thanks. Yes, you are correct, cooking is either sitting, hunched or kneeling. As we cook a lot on long trips (lots of 4w+ trips, and 1 6w trips) its never really been a concern or a problem. The hob is OK size and it works. Yeah - compromise but everything in a small van is.....
Very nice clean build. Thanks for sharing.
The only complaint I have is the steering wheel is on the wrong side. The Americans are right about the side of the steering wheel, and all the countries that follow us with the side of the steering wheel are right too...just kidding. Very great video and very great job!! I would love to own a van with your craftsmanship!! Thanks for the video!!
thanks!
Best I've seen on youtube. Obviously you're not short of a bob or two lol
lol. Thanks for the compliment! The build wasn't cheap, but could be slightly cheaper in hindsight. I do say on the blog, if you have skills you can do things one way, but if you don't (e.g. me) then you can buy your way out of trouble with tools, mouldings and the like. Also, bear in mind some people use these vans for weekends away (so can be cheaper). Ours has had >200 nights away already, 6 week trips, winter, mountains, beach, wild etc - and hence all the "toys" are needed which aren't for weekend use or even campsite only vans. Just goes to show all vans are different...…. (Also FYI planning new van2 build in 2020 (see blog) - and again it'll be expensive, but I'm already buying bits I see on offer, 20% ebay codes etc - so new hot water heater (Truma Ultrastore) - I paid £328 - everywhere £420 ish. etc etc - so plan and start early and you can get things cheaper... Good luck!
@@Ryan_DYD you should be called Nigel if you already aren't.... Don't ask me why because I don't know lol 😂
Wow!...a lot of work requiring various knowledge basis, indeed.
Indeed ;) Thank you.
Could you pull the tap to hang on the celing and have a pull out plastic so you could shower/wash inside?
Yes you could, but the water is cold. We actually did shower in the van more than once (and outside) by using a 10L fresh water container that we used for filling up, and whacking a few kettle fulls of hot water in to make it warm - and we used a 12v submersible shower pump - amzn.to/3n9HzHA - which really worked well... (inside had to be careful with towels lol but did OK lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3eC2TBWtjXZg4KMOq0nESDJnLJQyWiG_XmDVUHxiW7w69PR2gwPRts2e8aJUgpf2ZtM7yrZQItGJXZgXOXDyVoaIYZBFKeQhmGySqrbOk5ZgMGHyvieRc3DMYzLqPkKW99juqkSsdhQlfjQTpBZSZoOsA=w493-h657-no?authuser=0
You could build a spaceship! Welldone. I build Serena campervans and your build is the most comprehensive I have ever seen..
Thank you, very kind! The (old) Serena had quite high floor with the gearbox didn't it? (25y ago!) The new ones look sleaker - import only though?
@@Ryan_DYD Lol I am not sure about the older ones. I tend to look for 2004 onwards.
Thankyou I'm was driving nv200 as taxi company's car and now think I buy one as you just proved how good it can be
Hi Ryan, great video could you please let me know where you got the curtain rail from for the bulk head also how do you manage to use the porta potty?
Many thanks
Trevor
Hi. Not sure where I got it from, but it was www.thecurtainpoleandtrackcompany.com/silent-gliss-1021-1025 - so have a look there. Also look at van-x - the curtain rail cab divider kit I bought for the ducato has curtains and rail already, with good (better) curtain header - probably wide enough and easier to bend too. Curtains are thin so will need a second covering (as we did on ducato). As for the loo, yes it was tight, but totally fine and we used it for everything. Even "worshiping the throne" after too many beers lol. Of course, depends on your build and depends on your privacy requirements!
Thinking about it, if I was doing it again knowing what I know, I'd buy the van-x ducato kit and modify it rather than the silver gliss stuff (assuming the rail length is OK)
Very Westfalia-like ( that's a compliment ). Well thought-out and executed.
Thanks - I know what you mean - though they have the ability to use plastic mouldings! I did think the old Nuggets were a bit "meh" - but you are right - its borrowed some ideas! Oops
Brilliant. Really nicely and tastefully done. Embedding the magnets is so smart. Love it.
That is a magnificent build. I'm sure there are many van outfitters who are envious of the workmanship of this conversion.
Thanks, very kind, but remember I made the video and didn't show some poorer aspects. For sure, #2 would be easier and neater! (Also note I "bought" my way out of trouble a few times by using expensive easy methods rather than cheaper skilled methods.... )
Great video thanks, I take my hat off to you, the best self build camper van I have ever seen. You could make a good business for yourself with your knowledge and attention to detail. Well done. 👍
Thanks, very kind..... Never do a business out of it - you can get away with a lot more when its your own :) But watch this space - will be doing a L2 or L3 van, full wet room, garage, and more toys than a happy kids Christmas... Starting Sept 2020 (maybe) - but deliveries already started due to massive discounts/deals (lighting, hot water boiler etc etc)
Ryan You’re a happy father! Wish your family always have a safe & wonderful trip :)
Nice build Ryan! I just skimmed through it but will look at it closer later. I might have to pinch some of your ideas. I have been traveling in my Westy for a number of years and have updated almost everything. I even have heated recaro seats. Again great video. Safe travels
absolutely fantastic build with excellent use of space, and must have cost a bob or two lol, love the bed ! and also quite amazed at the heater too but ours is noisy
Thanks :) It was build cost-no-object - but came in pretty much as expected, and considering everything is "top spec" it is around 50-60% of the cost of a "pro" made van. (That's guessing, as I've only seen them using the cheaper van and cheaper components). The heater WAS noisy, but added a silencer designed for another make, but fitted perfectly, now its dead quiet. Been away for 2 nights wildcamping this weekend, out with friends, set heating on timer and came back to a snug van - but only heard the heater within a couple of ft of the van (and it was in a silent place). So well worth it. Even more worth it when we woke up this morning, put the heater on lowest setting and only noticed it was covered in ice later! So the insulation works! As we were stealth camping, we didn't have the windscreen cover on, just the internal blind. 20+ in the back, and the windscreen had ice on the inside! So the internal curtains insulate well too! So look up "branded" exhaust silencers, maybe £20-30 on ebay with clamps and paste. Big difference
haha my build budget was about 50 quid plus batteries and it looks it, /but/ it was a prototype build to try different seating/bed size / orientation, and i still dint like it even though it works, our current setup has the space we need, but i find it hard to get out of bed in the morning, thats not a pun lol, so i'm rotating the bed this spring for build 3, or is it 4.......
Need to tidy up the right side? Hell no! I LOVE that you have direct access to all that stuff. I mean if you HAVE to lose a door, it's a damn good way to have to lose it!
A great fantastic job! I like the doll size pieces that fit in space. I thought behind the driver seat was the wall toliet compartment that was next to fridge til I saw storage size side. I imagine if you was consider a motorized version it would be more heavier and may have change gas tank size to equip extra weight. But mortorize would extend space manually or electronically to provide extra room. I think it is well thought out and versatile to changes in patterns. Good Luck!
Wow, that looks great. I've used to drive Nissan serena which was before nv200. This thing doesnt look like it, but it's suprisingly spacious. I'll use few ideas in my trailer :-)
can you tell me how much it cost you to build the compervan conversion .
I'll be honest, it was a cost no object build as it was more of a project, and could've been done cheaper. So c. £7-8k in parts alone (think nearer £7k as the higher number includes tools I justified for it). Biggest ticket items: windows, diesel heater (will buy chinese next time!); fridge; bed; lightweight wood; solar/b2b/12v electrics; custom water tanks etc. insulation, sink/pump etc. Tow bar, bike rack etc. Doing it again - maybe £
5k max. (excluding van of course, van was bought new)
Very nice job Ryan, it looks very pro. Thanks for sharing.
Well thought out intro, well thought out van, well thought out presentation. Bravo!
Brilliant job Ryan, you've just given me a bunch of ideas. Many here in California are jumping on the small camper wagon, so to speak. Enjoyed your walk through and thanks so much.
Dang that's the second brit build I've seen that is professional build grade (saleable). Do all you brit guys make awesome builds? Seriously the people across the pond that make builds at this level, SELL THEM.
Thanks for your kind comments. Thing is, for a DIY 1st attempt its pretty good - but not pro quality in places and I'd not be happy doing others' vans - the risk of c*cking up is too great lol. On your own you can change plans and cover up - but someone elses van.....
some of the bodies can be over zealous in some areas :) i' get one of these but they're not available in aus :( nice goin!
nice job.as i was thinking of buying one, and thank for the miles ..to the gallon.keep safe live long by from john.
Wonderful job!! Very efficient use of space. Wondering how much this conversion cost all up?
Cost is a difficult one as to be fair I had unlimited budget - it cost what it cost. So I used v expensive but good things like the ply, electrics, pump, bed, tanks solar controller, heater, windows etc. So what I spent may be 30-40% more than what someone on a budget could do a very very similar version of (especially if they had better skills - (not hard lol)). If you look at the blog you can see the spec. Contact me there and I'll give more info
THanks for the reply Ryan... I'm in Canada, up in the woods north of Toronto.....I think that equates to about 16k here, which isn't too crazy. There is no one here doing these types of conversions, so we'd be looking at doing it ourselves, nice to have some great ideas from you.
Hi Ryan,
Thanks for posting this video. It is, by far, the best 'tour' of a mini/micro camper. It is concise but still with enough information and thankfully there is no irritating background music.
The conversion looks superb and a lot of thought has gone into the design. Don't worry about SCampers trying to link to your video. It's just a form of flattery. However, they have been a bit naughty, if they refused to help with an inquiry but then try to 'piggyback' your video.
I bought a second-hand NV200 two days ago, with the intention of using it for wild camping at weekends but as a van on weekdays. I hope to design basic gear/furniture so that it can be set-up and returned to 'stock' quickly and easily. It certainly won't be as refined as your efforts. Your video has given me much food for thought.
Thanks again for posting. Best wishes, Norrie (Linlthgow, Scotland)
thanks. I don't have a decent video editor to put music on lol.
straight forward video, simple explanations, products and model listed with real day life experience. A+
Thank you
Wow. Thanks for quick reply mate. Congratulations again on a top conversion.
A credit to yourselves , I trust you have thoroughly enjoyed this cracking vehicle since completion. Best wishes Mike, County
Durham UK Feb '21
Thanks :) We had 200+ nights away I think, longest 6wk trip. Sold last year due to personal reasons and change of use needed - so now have bigger van (due to more sitting around due to broken wife). Kept me busy during lockdown - just need to use it! Took ideas from the NV build. Vids on my channel here :)
Мужик Ты отличный Жму руку твою Ты по праву молодец )))
Спасибо! (thanks)
And just seen another brilliant DIY conversion by Bodach - first pictures I've seen. a similar but different conversion to us, they have pop top, but some great ideas and neater lining by the look of it! Some more ideas for interested parties here: www.smallmotorhome.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?20520-My-NV-200-Mini-camper
In one word Wow!
In a few words... very nice job! Well done!
I don’t usually comment on videos, and although it’s not to my taste (I prefer a more function over form approach) this is a fantastic job. Can’t fault it, well done.
Thanks Dan - appreciate the comment. And yeah - deffo not for everyone - but a perfect fit in a particular albeit rare niche. Gutted we can't be out in it now :(
Nice work. It's great to see a DIY conversion that looks professional. A proper camping vehicle instead of a squirrel nest! 👍
Hi, congratulations on this amazing conversion. Your video is inspiring and the quality of your work as nothing to envy to professionals. May I ask the length of your bed? Best regards.
ThanksRemember, with the pax seat rotated/moved back, there is only 2m from there to the back of the van. We want the loo accessible overnight, and this means the bed is 1.65m long (frame 1.55 but with cushion overhang around 1.65. We tend to sleep curled, and its not a problem - though clearly part of the compromise. If you want a longer bed, and loo at night, you need a bigger van :)
Hi - no. 165 is 5.4ft which is 5'5" :) But I get your point. I'm 5'10 and its fine as I sleep slightly curled, and with normal size duvets your feet are covered but not supported. With the loo out, you could rest feet on loo. You could do some form of supported flap above loo if needed.... In a small van its a compromise as to what you need. As we wildcamp a lot, a loo is needed. You can't have a longer bed with usable loo..... We're around 200 nights away, and toes over the end of bed hasn't been complained about..... Having no overnight loo would've been a lot worse lol :)
6'4 in an NV! You are pushing it lol. You'd not sit on our rear seat - anything above 5'10 would be too much (our seat is slightly higher than normal to get loo under). So good luck! Ours designed by us, for us, so you are too tall for our design.
Amazing, looks very professional and very well thought through.
Thanks Yasmine!
Great van conversion. Looks nice and comfortable.
What a great wee “stealth” camper van.
May you have many happy travels in it.
Regards from a Scottish viewer. 😊🏴👍🏻
Thanks! It has been north of the border a few times :) Yeah - you let us in!! :)
I like the build you did! Very neat and tidy look, usable, functional, and looks like a joy to use! well done!
16:59 Eppp spider !! great van !
Nice job - a T5/6 is out of the question financially but i"m seriously looking @ a 200 as a viable option , thanks for sharing :]
ThanksIts totally viable if you are fairly small build and accept there is compromise. For the price of the van, even "new", its a bargain and drives really well. Yep, not a T5/6 quality but its plenty good enough; Good luck with your plans
Nice job! Very impressive Thanks for sharing!!!
Any time! :) I really appreciate the comment, thanks
WOW....great conversion and great video, very professionally done.....just the type of thing I am looking at creating...will be using this vid as reference (if you dont mind).....:-)
Feel free! Its what its posted for. Blog as more details of build. Get as many ideas as you can from as many places as you can, and tune to your needs. Good luck!
best diy project i ever seen, congrats.
I am looking into one, need to fit my vespa inside, so thinking like a murphy style
Bed etc
A bike inside will be a very tight fit.... Good luck!
What’s the name of the blue night light please
Errr? Mark? We never really named it. :D However, they are great - we have some in our new van. There are quite a few in the series - all with touch, blue night light, and they can dim by touch too. I have these amzn.to/3n7QfhY and rectangular ones amzn.to/38cDtKV and smaller ones amzn.to/385ymMo - they take 9-16v so are good in campervans even on hookup etc. Hope thats useful?
you're a genius, gooood jooob
Perfect adventure van