How to build a small feature rich camper van. The Humble Road Solo Traveler, Maxi Me, forges ahead.
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- Опубліковано 25 тра 2024
- The largest of our micro-camper vans, the Maxi-Me continues to develop into an awesome solo camper.
Music: www.purple-planet.com
#onahumbleroad #maxi-mecampervan #customvanbuild #promastercampervan - Авто та транспорт
If there was a camera guy just walking around in the shop all day showing all the different vans and layouts , id watch the channel like it was cable
That's a thought!
I always give a like and a comment. It takes seconds. George spends hours doing these videos.
I appreciate that! Also, when I'm on UA-cam, I let all the ads run. I know that the creators get paid only if the ads are allowed to run. If you skip, the creator doesn't get their fair share. And if you click off the page and let it run in the background, they know!
@@HumbleRoad While the ads are running you can make yourself a coffee and settle down comfortably to finish watching the video.
Exactly. Unless they're watching through the camera! 😳
@@HumbleRoad Joke's on them, I put an opaque sticker on mine. And if they try to spy through the microphone, all they'll hear is my air fryer.
@@HumbleRoad Thanks George, I didn't know that about the ads and I'll let them run from now on. I know it's a lot of work and equipment to produce videos of your quality.
Love the "jiffy pop" reference 🤣
Two thumbs up for the helicopter sound effects. Very solid bed frame.
That is an intriguing design! A Ford Transit AWD option would make a nice "affordable" off roading rig.
Agreed. I respect George’s work, but that ProMaster is just too ugly! I’m a Transit owner.
I like a lot of your ideas. My wife and I live in a 21 foot Promaster and the van works for us full time currently touring South America. Yours makes a lot of sense for a single traveler. Well done.
As someone who traveled to Alaska via the Alcan, put in some sort of bug screen!! It doesn't have to be expensive. We installed screw snaps all around our door opening and then bought a cheap magnetic opening doorway screen. We put the companion snaps in the velcro edging. Works like a charm. Under $50. Whoever purchases the van has options. Use it when needed...pack it away when no bugs to worry about.
How come you decided not to just apply the velcro only?
.
.
Same in Scotland - midges
Horse flies at the beach. Mosquitoes just about everywhere. Flies. Midges. Moths ... a screen is worth the money. I would rather have a functional screen than hot water if saving money was a major concern. Just my opinion.
@007nadineL we found the velcro comes off in the heat. Our van was a luxury touring van, so no metal to attach velcro to. We do have wood but even then the heat gets to it. We live in TN. Internal van temp has gotten to 110 degrees while parked. (We have a temp monitor we can watch from inside our house.)
Wonderful your bridges over the Wheel arches. I built mine already. Bad luck for me.
I truly believe that the HR🎃 "sweet spot" for future van-production will prove to be the "MAXI-ME..." It is the most "practical marriage" of ALL RV worlds... MAXI-ME = "comfortable essentials..." + simplicity in size... ALSO, most people do NOT realize the tight "turning radius" on that HR MAXI-ME model is INCREDIBLE 💪... And PARKING that model chassis in urban areas is a DREAM😴
I really like the 118" wheelbase low roof Promaster. It's more like car size but is still quit big inside. It would be easy to drive and park in a city but still have a lot a space inside. If you have an 8 foot or taller garage door, it would easily fit inside your garage. On a cold rainy snowy day, I wouldn't mind being stuck inside. On the smaller vans, I might get cabin fever pretty quick. I wouldn't even consider the Mini Me, or Midi Me, too small.
George.
Idea.
The vertical stay under the fridge.
If you move it 3-4"(?) towards the driver side (to match the back of the toilet?) you could build a slide-out unit that opens towards the passenger seat, (matching the van sliding door) with access *both* sides, for outdoor *and* indoor supplies?
.
The vertical should still provide plenty of structural support.
You won't be reaching into the cavity looking for the "sauces", or have to open the van door if you want them when cooking inside.
now you're thinking Roger!
@@HumbleRoad
"Even a stopped clock...." ! 😂
Hi George - Jack Powell Ram dealership in Escondido CA has a couple of the Promaster vans you were looking for.
I heard the helicopter sound effect. Nice touch, George. Here are my two cents: I like the kitchen opposite the slider. You didn't mention a fan and AC. I think a screen is necessary. ~ Patti from Canada
In the video, at time stamp 14:42 it is briefly noted that AC is going on the roof.
Excellent, Maestro! So many of the concepts enhance the efficiency of full size vans as well.
Yes indeed!
Good morning George
I know you said no customization, but there is an element I wish you would make available across all of your van builds.
I have mobility and balance issues, what I wish you would think about are additional hand holds along with the ones that come with the vans. Subtle and discreet but strong. Thank you for another enjoyable video.
Oh that is a specific need that I could gladly address!
I like your conversions. Such an organized design and clean lines. I think I could live in that.
thats my favorite George, the maxi me with the most space for full time van living. your designs are the best 👍
I like the 118" Promaster Maxi Me. Nice layout. Front Wheel Drive is perfect for slippery surfaces! Nice one George!
Glad you like it!
lookin good, one floor plan, i understand.
Great build! You put in so many good sturdy features and thoughtful designs.
We put a Trelino toilet in our Airstream to conserve water while boondocking. It takes a little more work, but we still love it. I dream of one day owning one of your beautiful vans. I continue to be impressed with the thought and details you put into the designs. Thanks for sharing! 😍
I really think the Rolef screen is a must have. Beautiful design George!
Well then that would be an add-on option. As is the air conditioner.
Thanks George! Like 66
So many cool ideas. The roof "drop in panels solves a couple of my problems. Nice job Sir.
Glad to help
OMG: The helicopter🚁 is back 😍😍😍
Good morning, George. Another great project!! May I suggest that the extra space behind the toilet may be better used for toilet paper, bags, etc rather than food storage. Have a great week!
Yeah, somehow the thought of food storage and toilet doesn’t seem appealing. 😳
I think George just forgot to mention the toilet would have it's own box.
@@karenmaguire4250 perhaps, but personally I’d rather use the storage space for toiletries. But it’s the customers preference that will win the day.
Toilet… between public + bucket w/trash bag + pee bottle you will get the job done quite affordably.
Nice work George and team 🌈
I have to admit I love your designs, the idea of a van standarized for ow costs, all that, I LOVE the concept. Hope to be able to buy one of these for myself one day. One thing I would add to the design: Windows. You are in the woods, you will want to be able to wake up to a sunrise in the nature. Just that, but this is great craftsmanship! Keep it up! Love from Argentina.
💯 on RV-Toilets GEORGE ❗The "law of gravity" on RV-Toilets is the "Simpler the Better..." Took years for me to fugure that one out !
For males my "hillbilly version" is large-mouth tropicana orange juice bottle with high-quality plastic bags when necessary 😉
I'd rather spend my additional bucks💰 on a lithionic "MAMA-LUKE..." battery 😊
Yep. I use an iced tea jug. Pro tip: add fresh coffee grind to the container. No urine smell, just coffee!
@@HumbleRoad 👍
Boys . . . T M I (ew . . .) 😵💫
The reality of life in a camper... 🤷🏻♂️
@@HumbleRoad 💯
I really want one of these. IMHO, it's a perfect upgraded alternative for solo travelers to building out a minivan (yeah, the other "Me" models also serves that function for somewhat smaller folks). 👍 We've got one or two big RAM dealers here in town, I'll have a look around them for you for that 118" low-roof...
Yay! The next Maxi-Me video is here! Thank you, George!
This is the vehicle I've been wanting to convert for roughly 8 years. So thrilled that you're developing this new platform for Humble Road artistry.
It really is the perfect vehicle for a practical-but-luxuriant-build-for-one-traveler.
I love the design, and the cool new cnc'ed kitchen module frame.
One question: why does everyone generally design bed positions with the head against the walls most likely to be sideswiped when one is parked roadside?
East/west sleeping is the best use of space in the van. If you sleep north/south, a full sized mattress would take up more room, unless you do a retractable as I did in Mr & Mrs Sprinter van.
Thanks George
Always Enjoy Your Videos !!
My pleasure!
Another great informative video, George. Thank you!
Always great videos. If possible I would move the toilet under the bed and lower the fridge to the floor or a bit higher for another countertop space and more open feel. Can never have too many countertops. I would rather lose a bit of garage space. Thanks for always explaining everything so well.
I like a little bounce in my bed. That's why I really liked that build where you used a modified Glideaway Freestyle adjustable frame! It has those flexible slats in it.
Beautiful designing as expected ❤
love the simple camode...i build one very similure with stainless steel componants. the only material that does not retain oders. been using it for 9 years as a van lifer.
I can’t wait to see what you do with some of the upcoming all electric vans that will have over 100kw of available battery power and anytime anywhere HVAC.
Brilliant!
GEORGE💪❤: Would LOVE to see a "ME" version of this very same van in a tall roof model 💪... Believe it would be quite popular...
Not the target audience. The tall vans are not available in the 118wb. The low roof, combined with the shortness is very attractive and not intimidating to a certain sect of the market. A full sized budget van is not what I want to deliver. There are plenty of builders doing that.
@@HumbleRoad Roger-that Sir ! I "get it now..." Also, lower roof model is better for stealth in over-night neighborhooding...
I’ve had a Diaper Genie survive three kids; never failed us. That’s roughly six years of using it multiple times per day (and night). Since a dry flush toilet is basically the same technology, I wouldn’t be overly worried about it breaking. It’s not the best environmentally, but it’s probably reliable.
In these days of mass production, there are bound to be units that fail. No avoiding that. No manufacturer is perfect. Van life/travel has its own unique set of challenges & if something falls, it can be a big deal to repair/replace. That's something to always consider.
Love your videos, we built out the interior of our bus conversion using 8020 thanks to you.
Looks like your CNC is reducing the need for 8020 cabinet framing, like your sink base.
This video tho, my fiancé said, “Picnic box next to the shitter?” LOL
Thank you for your kind words. The picnic box will be sealed off from the shitter.
@@HumbleRoad 👌
I've been waiting for this one 😃
Enjoy
Ooo.. now we're rolling George. The Mini, Medi vans are a little small for me. Now, the Maxi that may be the sweet spot. I am "hopefully" that it might be affordable for us low to middle of the middle class price range (sadly, the other vans would require me to sell my house to afford, and are honestly a pipe dream... come on lottery #... lol) and yet big enough for a person like me 5'11". The icing on the cake is that it will be designed with comfort and built to last by someone I trust for the sometimes backroad outings I like to do. Thus, as retirement age is a hop and and a skip away, and my income is dropping, I might still find some adventure left in me.
*BTW is an awning still part of the design?
An awning would be an extra add-on option.
That's great George, options to control the price point.
Well thought out and excellent design features. I like the galley features you outlined. Lovely plan. 😊😊
Thanks so much! 😊
@@HumbleRoad
You could gain more "walkway" (3-4"?) by moving the plumbing to the side of the sink and shifting the sink back towards the "splashback"?
(I think you did that on another van?)
If you have a comfortable walkway, adding more does nothing but steal from some other feature.
Thank u
Looks like others may have alerted you but a simple search on the products website showed a half dozen of the desired van configuration available nearby, in my case the San Francisco Bay Area. Out here about $50K.
Also let me offer a suggestion to your terrific configuration. I see you avoided a shower enclosure, smart move, but I think you should take advantage of the available hot water. How about an external shower with hose and mixing valves that live in the garage just inside the door?
My frien George come to Miami Dade county Florida you will find those vans here a lot of dealers have them, keep up the good work you doing great 👍
Been waiting to see this! Where do i sign up! Love the trelino and size of the fridge
I would love to see this van with the fridge up high behind the driver seat, and a lower pantry cabinet beside the bed by the door. I think it would be much more open & allow a wonderful view from the bed.
I thoroughly enjoy watching your design process, George, and I love that you are working with this 118 PM.
That sounds nice but I noticed at time stamp 0:12, that there are sliding cargo doors on both sides of the van, not just the passenger side. If you put the fridge behind the driver's seat, you'd block the sliding door there so you'd need to consider that.
George I like the design and all the components. Was thinking about the Ford Transit medium roof could be a better van than this. I believe it's 6' interior height. It's not as wide but a little longer.
I'm glad you are giving out measurements. It helps visualize. Would like the height and length measurements too.
"A little longer" is the deal breaker! This van is aimed at those who are intimidated by the long and tall of van life.
@@HumbleRoadwe own the transit platform and it drives like a car. So enjoyable to drive, and never give the length a second thought. To each his own I suppose George! 👍🏻✌🏻
@@HumbleRoad Thank you for responding. I understand what you mean. The Promaster has a longer one too.
I was imagining how it would work for me as a single traveler.
I’m old, I want to be able to stand up ⬆️. 😂
Sure, this van is not for everyone.
@@HumbleRoad
I'm old and 6'4"... Would need an H3, maybe an H4...
Roger, you need a small fifth wheel! I can help you with that!
@@HumbleRoad - Wait, you offered to help Rodger above, but not me! I’m hurt! 😱🤣
Oh Erin! I've got you slated for a full size custom build! Stay tuned, I'll let you know where to send the check...😆
I never see you do a lifting bed setup for people with taller toys. I would like to see a two winch or motor setup so you could also adjust the north to south angles for if you park on a grade. Would love to see your creative side put together with your solid design side.
That would be a spec build, since none of my clients have asked for that. I will be putting a lift bed in the Ford Transit Trail that's waiting outside! And there's a good chance we will design our own lift system! Stay tuned!
THAT is a super cool design, I would however make the solo bed in the shape of a “C” . The top and bottom of the C would go over the wheel wells for the equipment, as you mentioned, however, I would consider a 30” wide bed (the back of the C, still giving you a garage but more floor space and possibly more kitchen counter space. George, could you install a solar power station instead of a custom set-up, saving installation costs and time? I looked at a bunch of toilets and a big yes to the Trelino toilet, it’s simple and efficient.
@stuartstuart866, I have an Anker 1500W Solar Power Generator/ Station with a 1229Wh Battery. I might bring it, along with the portable solar panels and extension cords on a camping trip but I wouldn't want it installed in my van to run refrigerators, cooktops, water pumps/heaters, etc.. For that it would think it would be more practical to have a professional and safe solar electrical system installed that also plays well with the van's electrical system and shore power. My power station wouldn't provide enough power anyway but are you referring to the same type of solar power station (but bigger) or something else?
@@asnormal1362 Similar to your all in one unit but much larger capacity, since portability wouldn’t be an issue in a van. I don’t know what George’s system would cost per Watt of power, but I imagine much more expensive than a prebuilt all in one unit, especially when purchased on sale.
What about the back door outdoor shower hook up-we need that. George CecilB! OPTIONS
OPTIONS! Nobody seems to care about costs! Awnings, air conditioners, showers, pop tops! On and on!
A real pro
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Think you should have the option to have a smaller fridge and have more storage. I guess it’s all preferences :)(:
Beyond Beautiful. Throw in the bug screen. It’s enough we have to poop into a vessel. It would be purgatory to have to do that with bugs flying around my head. 😊
Something tells me you would be more comfortable at the Hilton..
@@HumbleRoad George!! Lol
George I absolutely love this design idea. Are there any videos that show a finished version of the Maxi-Me? Thanks for the vids...
This is Maxi-Me 01. More videos to come. Stay tuned!
@@HumbleRoad I rewatched the video and I saw the part where you mentioned that this was the first one…my bad. Thanks for the reply though.
Can you do windows and an outside shower, like you said in your original video for the Maxi? How much additional height will that AC unit add to the roof? Will it still be stealthy?
I like it. All the comforts I would need.
Question: I'm 5'4". Would I be able to stand in it? You look uncomfortable all bent over.
Being familiar with working in the Mini Me and the Midi Me it's not uncomfortable. If you are 5'3" in your stocking feet, you can stand up straight. Maxi-Me #01 will be completed in another month or so, if you want to come see it.
Like the coin grip floor, what brand did you use
Funnily enough I was walking around the supermarket the other month and noticed they used interlocking floors. My thoughts were originally around water spillage and seepage. But then thought they are always being cleaned and liquids spilling on them. Then my biggest concern was because it is always vibrating being in a truck would they not start coming unlocked. Remember the troubles people had with laminated flooring doing the same.
There's no way these floors might come unhinged!
Warning that water heater will fail. Thank goodness my wife was home as i installed it under my kitchen sink and within 3 months the tank failed and started sprayed water flooding the house. Ps coin floors suck to sweep and mop.
Wow, you're a bowl of good news, aren't you? 😇
Old (experienced homemaker) lady critique? For me, I would like to get the toilet out from under the fridge & move it to the area under the bed that juts into the garage. Then I could use that space under the fridge for a couple drawers/food storage. The other option I would change out is the flooring. You can't squeegee a coin floor. Squeegees are this girl's best cleaning buddy. Just personal opinion, but I just don't like a toilet under the fridge. Chamber pot under the bed is sort of 19th century, but it worked.
The space under the bed you suggest for the toilet is where a dog crate will be installed. The toilet under the fridge will be enclosed in its own box. There are no issues with that.
Found one at Rydel Chrysler Dodge, San Fernando, CA
It definitely needs a screen at the sliding door opening. And an awning. We need OPTIONS
If I am spending that much on a build, why not just get a medium roof or tall short wheel base. So u don’t crouch all day. It must b nice to fully stand up😅
This is a very specific van platform for a very specific individual. The 118 wheelbase along with the low roof are the key features. A non-imposing, easy to handle little van.
Thanks George. Was your thinking for the plywood only floor - to increase headroom?
yes! And you know, most people lay a rug of some kind. So a raised insulated floor is really only necessary in really cold temps.
@@HumbleRoad That's we we are going to do - for our upcoming 118" 3 season van. Our old Westy has just the floor metal then a rug, so will be living large!
I want one so bad, but I only ever see the Super Stubbies in UPS trim.
Well, they are out there! 3 of my viewers just sent me where to find them in inventory at their local dealers..
@@HumbleRoad Good to know!
We use our rolef screen every day in our Boldt. Are they expensive?
I was wondering if you ever consider using an Ecoflow system in place of Victron. Would love to hear your thoughts on this
I am testing two Ecoflow batteries now. Excellent products! I love them! However, I would not put an "all-in-one" system in my vans; if any one of those internal components fail, you are completely out of power. I think they have a place in a world where you do not have enough battery power and need to rely on a generator. I boondocked a few days in a winery with my little travel trailer. During the days, I ran my propane generator and kept the trailer going as well as charge up all phones, ipads as well as the Ecoflow. When quiet hours came, I switched over to run the trailer on the Ecoflow. Was great! Of course no air conditioning and we used the microwave sparingly. The Ecoflow is a viable addition to your power repertoire.
@@HumbleRoad Thanks for this. The “all-in-one” system is the part that worries me as well. I like the ease of installation, yet wonder if the trade off is worth it. I wonder what the cost of components comparison is for a victron system is that would be comparable to the ecoflow 5kw would be
a 5kw Ecoflow would be far too heavy and the form factor would definitely get in the way of the floor plan. I am referring to the 2048W/hr 3000W Delta 2. A true portable. You know where this kind of unit will thrive and shine? In a truck bed tent or cap camper. That's where mine will be in an upcoming video. Stay tuned!
I have been considering the Ecoflow Power Kit (5kWh). The footprint doesn’t appear to be more and I would think it wouldn’t be heavier than a comparable system of individual components, yet you have much more experience than I as a builder of my first van
Couple questions George. Price point? I have recently discovered after a lifetime of being 5'7 1/2" that I am now 5'6"😂. How tall is your finished ceiling? I think it is perfect.
Also is it a 1500 or 2500?
1500 with a 4000lb payload capacity.
infamous pro-master second alternator? what video do you give more details on this second alternator setup you mentioned?
The Nations kit uses a third party bracket which positions the new belt too close to a coolant hose. Cuts the hose all too often.
My goodness I bet the cost of all that aluminium wouldn’t be cheap, but it’s quality.
Let's be frank...quality ain't cheap...
😉
I thought about wood vs aluminum for my van. Wood is heavy and bulky, it can mold/mildew, fasteners can wiggle loose as vans inherently shake up interiors, and it's flammable. I decided on aluminum for practicality, to be safe and to save on the weight of my van. 8020 aluminum may be a little more expensive but in the long run but I'll save on fuel costs and any future upgrades, modifications or repairs will be easier too. Also, I'll be living in my van full time for several years as I travel. After I might sell the van and I think the aluminum framing would be a plus.
We have addressed many of the concerns of using wood as a structure with our design. The weight is comparable. The strength is comparable. The speed and the cost are better.
Thx George. I probably should have specified my comment was regarding a complete wood build out (2x4's & standard ply). That is what the first 2 builders I interviewed offered for my van build. It was after I discovered the Humble Road YT Channel that I made a final decidion on aluminum with minimal use of wood.
Helo.sir is it possible to add the permanent bedroom on roof top on this type of lower roof ?
not possible here.
Good morning, George!
What would be the chance of a heater, instead of a drawer, under the passenger seat?
I am leaning towards a 120VAC air conditioner with a heat pump (not heat strip). The battery and all its charging options can certainly handle it. Heat pump is good down to 40 degrees F. And with my insulation routines, maybe even lower.
@@HumbleRoad household heat pumps work to just below freezing. Is the van one different? We live in TN. Moderate winters. All the heat pump folks begin complaining when we get below 25 degrees.
The lower temp success of a heat pump would be how well the van is insulated. As I said, a Humble Road van might allow lower temps with a heat pump.
Interesting! I try to avoid real cold, but I’m in Canada! That much battery would support a moderate amount of an ac space heater, if necessary……I think. 😂. I like to be good to -10 C, or so. ( 14 F)
I notice all van builders place the electrical under the bed. Has anyone tested the health factor of having all that under the place you sleep. When we sleep our cells are repairing the days damage on our body. I'd love to know what kind of emfs are being emitted from the batteries/invertors etc
No worse than keeping a cell phone in your pocket and then holding it up to the side of your head. But I have, nonetheless addressed your concerns. I adhere a Faraday cloth to the topside of the bed board, under the mattress.
I am sorry but are you JOKING ⁉ It sounds like you have an astrologist too ❗ 🤣 Please "come back" to planet earth 🌍.
I'm not an engineer, but is there a reason you're using the C-channel on its side instead of having the opening to the bottom? (i.e. I guess we could call it "n-channel").
what you see here is the correct way to use C channel. One half of an I beam.
However, due to the slight nature of my load requirements, I have placed the C channel on its back to save the inch.
200-300lb of water on the same side of the chassis as the driver? 🤔🤔🤔
You don't have to worry about me balancing the load. The big battery and refrigerator are on the opposite side. Both big weights over and just forward of the rear axle. And the 200-300lbs of water is not a constant. I take that into consideration as well..
Can the alternator really power 150Amps of Orions?
The optional 220A alternator is there to power things such as heated seats, defrosters, small inverters. If those options are not in the build, then the stock vehicle will use approx 70A. It's tight and if I see the alternator working at peak, I will replace it with a 280A Nations.
150A from the main alternator?
RAM provides a 220A alternator as an option. Intended to power such things as heated seats, small inverter, etc. Without those options, the normal draw on the alternator is approx 70A. If I find the draw of my Orions too close to max, we will install a larger alternator. 280A from Nations for instance. Main chassis alternator, not the second dedicated! That one causes problems with hoses!!
*Solo vertically challenged travelers. :)
150 amp of charge from the alternator Nice - That's a lot!!!
How many amp is your alternator output?
220A alternator. Chassis needs approx 70A when everything is running, which is rare.
@@HumbleRoad Good to know - I just upgraded my Transit from 30 amp to 30 plus 40 amp and was concerned whether my alternator could handle it. I'm sure it will be fine. So why bother with solar if the alternator can charge so fast. After 7 years I have NO solar on the roof. I have 200 watt folding panels - which I Rarely use...
Solar, as well as an Ecoflow have their place in the charging repertoire.
@@HumbleRoad Really - an Ecoflow -
do declare -
Now I'm really curious -
Care to elaborate?
I went boondockinging at a winery. 2 AGM 100w batteries, 170W solar on the roof, 2500w Champion propane generator, and one Ecoflow delta 2 1029watt/hours 2500w lithium inverter pack. For a couple of daytime hours, I ran the propane generator to charge the Ecoflow, house AGM batteries, phones and iPads. When quiet hours came, I ran the coach on the Ecoflow and AGM batteries. It got me through the night, including a short burst of microwave use. All lights, fans, water heater, etc all on the fully charged AGMs and the Ecoflow. My point is the Ecoflow has a place in the energy repertoire.
So, as a musician, I am left wondering if, “hinge-right”, is the same as as, “stage-right”, or would that be considered, stage-left”?
----
(…as the hook comes out from stage-left and yanks me out of the scene!)
I found a 5’ x 10’ coin flooring roll for $149. That would actually work in my 136” WB, 2021 ProMaster Luv-Bug! Though the floor in my van is more than 5’ wide, components would cover the lack on the driver’s side, front-to-back….. (i.e. - galley, water tank, etc….). I have commercial carpet roll, as seen in use as storefront rugs, down now, but it doesn’t vacuum well, at all. I REALLY like the coin flooring idea Mr. George.
Consider that flooring may not be as durable as you might expect. check the quality
@@HumbleRoad Thank you..
That was definitely a 5 minute perusal. I am able to up the budget on my search…. And, find a remnant 6.5’ x 10, for example, to fully cover the area.
The carpet install currently in place has lasted incredibly. I has, however, proven to be very difficult to vacuum clean, after all of the outdoor twigs and sticks and leaves and construction debris fall off., etc…, finds its way in between the ribs of that carpet.
I truly appreciate your wisened input!
I don't believe George told us how tall the interior is. Does anyone know how tall George is?
63" of clear height
Wow. No more 80/20 in the galley box. Price?
There will be 8020 on the galley, we just haven't gotten there yet. We are constantly refining our processes to improve all aspects of the build.
Does he have pics of a finished Maxi?
I gotta have a shower.
This is our first Maxi-Me. More video to come.
The Maxi-Me may include an outdoor shower. If that's not acceptable, then a full size custom build would be the next consideration.
Why a low roof. wouldn’t you want to stand up straight?
No, not in this van. Aimed at a particular segment of the market. Short wheelbase low roof. Less intimidating all around.
Lansdale Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT
VIN: 3C6LRVNG0RE120785
Len Stoler Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
VIN: 3C6LRVNG3RE112535
Great videos always.
Thank you!!!
👍
Galley without 80/20!! Yikes
I know! Very excited about this style of construction for my smaller vans. You will have to trust that I've done my due diligence and that this will perform well.
As a stealth traveler, I always sleep with my head on the passenger side, which is closest to the sidewalk, rather than the driver's side on the roadside when I park parallel on the street. I would rather lose my feet to a drunk driver slamming into me parallel parked in a neighborhood than be killed by the same drunk driver slamming into my head on the street side. But that's me.
Rather dramatic and unfounded. If parked parallel on a street, unless you are on the left side of a one way street, your passenger side head would be lower than your feet. That seems uncomfortable. Beyond that, If you are sleeping in an elevated bed in a van, it is highly unlikely that a collision, with point of impact underneath the bed, would take your life. That's just my observation. I don't appreciate your comment intended to denigrate the care and thought I put into my van builds. My clients are not stealth travelers. And will not be illegally sleeping on the streets.
Well thought out, great feature set, and like that you are thinking about building to a price point. That said, I’m not at all enthused about the floor. It looks and feels cheap, and the coins feel annoying in bare feet. The inevitable spilled liquids will percolate between the joints of the tile and will not be able to be reached, or adequately dried/cleaned. Eventual scope for mold. The ridges on the edges of the coins also offer purchase for dirt build up, making the floor harder to clean than a smooth surface. You may want to rethink/canvass potential buyers before you commit. Wish you well with this offering.
This floor my look cheap to you, but it is not cheap. It is a high quality durable product. I would accept no less. I have to politely disagree with your assessment. On the contrary, the coins offer grip. Have you ever slipped on a smooth floor in your socks? The seams are tightly tapered and offer no worse water resistance than a click lock plank floor.
Would you consider offering alternate floor option?
Of course
These hard rubber molded floors are the most durable thing you can get. You're absolutely wrong.
I would prefer to swap the location of the refrigerator/toilet and the kitchen as is usually done. I can see that the kitchen will be smaller and will need counter space on the other side of the van. But I feel like the van won't get enough light even with the side door open. Also by sitting in the passenger seat, one will face a "wall".
As for more light, aftermarket windows could always be installed in the sliding or back doors.
like the floor plan and the ideas expect of the coin floor. looks to much factory/service truck like to me.
Looking forward to seeing the finished product...but hesitant to see the price considering what the Mini Me costs.
With EV vans coming electrical will be a breeze and cut the cost of building campers.
The New York Times comment to the effect that the Ukraine will not be able to recapture the areas that were pro Russia before the invasion I took it to mean that it would not be able to capture and hold them. If the people at large of those areas are still pro Russian, I also think Ukraine would not be able to hold them. I have been searching in vain for some channel to inform the viewers on the sentiments of the residents of those area today. I would be grateful.
I'm somewhat confused when you say you are working on a budget, yet use the most expensive brand name components (that are not necessarily the best) and use building methods that require the most amount of labor and planning. There are plenty of more budget conscious components that have the same quality and track record (many better) that have been proven and are used in more off road, off-grid, harsh applications than that van will ever see.
I did not suggest I was working cheaply. I said I intend to keep the price as low as I can.My low may be not as low as your low.
"There are plenty of more budget conscious components that have the same quality"
Disagree. I am using components and appliances that have a solid track record of performance backed by blue chip companies with exemplary customer service.
@@HumbleRoad I didn't imply cheap either.
@@HumbleRoad You may be surprised what other products are out there as I said with proven track records in worse conditions at the same quality, at lower cost, also backed by great companies with customer service, warranty and replacement policies. You're spoiled for choice. If anything of mine breaks in Siberia, the Australian Outback or French Polynesia, I can pick up or have it shipped in and replaced or fixed by locals without issues.
@searlearnold2867, I have to say that the materials for a van build depend upon your use and focus. Are you building a single van or many? Is the van being used for occasional overnight camping, extended travel or full time living? How much risk are you willing to live with? Each material has it's pro's and con's and we all have our preferences of course. From what I see, George is building sturdy, light weight, well planned and very safe vans. He's got my trust for sure. There are lots of van builds on UA-cam that look nice but are flawed and some downright dangerous. I like to relax when I travel and not worry about a leak, an electrical issue, etc. That peace of mind to me . . . priceless 🤗