Due to the popularity of this Van Conversion series, I am relocating it to a dedicated Van Conversion Channel! youtube.com/@mattsvan The Matt Estlea 2 Channel was originally for shitposting and used as a proving ground for ideas we have, without the risk of damaging the main channels (Matt Estlea) ranking in UA-cams search algorythms. Ideally we'd like to continue using it for this purpose, but are concious of clogging up the feeds of people who only signed up for van related content. Hence the dedicated channel. It also means I can use the dedicated channel for travel vlogs and other van related content once the conversion is complete which sounds fun. Go subscribe!
Hey Matt, just wated to say a huge thanks for the recognition and shout out, I'm just starting my second van build, so have also been doing hours of research and planning. Your build series popped up and with your carpentry background and youthful outlook it had me hooked, I'm subbed and will be following your progress with great interest. Hope it goes smoothly for you and look forward to seeing it develop over the coming weeks. Best wishes Greg
23:30 re weight distribution of water: Instead of having one 100L tank on one side, you could have two 50L tanks on both sides, connected with a thin pipe at the bottom. This will keep the water levelled. I've seen it done in other conversions.
Totally agree. When weight distribution is such an important factor, having one element that can be anywhere from 100Kg to zero Kg will make a huge difference in the handling and stability of the vehicle. Its the same principle they use on aircraft and ships.
I too recommend second this approach, water determined weight is not something that is a constant, a 100 liter tank weighs 100 kg one day, but on another day you may be 100kg heavier on one side due to an empty tank.
I'd also support the idea of two (or more) evenly distributed and self-levelling tanks. The biggest impact on handling isn't when the tank is full or empty, but when it is half-full and the water can slosh around.
Looking good! There are just two things that I would reconsider: The shower: a rain shower can use up to 20L/min giving you 5min of showering time every time you refill. Not even talking about heating 100L of water in 5min. I would really advice on having a smaller showerhead with a push button so you can wash instead of shower. This makes it possible to clean yourself with just a couple of liters of water. You can of course still build the rainshower for aesthetic purposes and for when you are connected to a hose. The step/laundry/poopybusiness hatch in the garage. Why have a garage if you are only going to use it to access a small hatch in the back. Emptying your garage to empty your loo is something a lazy person wouldn't do. I think it's not neccessary for the laundry but I like the idea of the external emptying of your number two. Would it be possible to position the toilet differently and have an access hatch on the side of the van? Maybe harder to realise but it would be so so so much more practical! Good luck with the build :)
Jesus Matt take a breath.... Lol. Nice to see you back, glad you mentioned Greg, he really did so much more research than any van builder on youtube. Will be nice to see what a great woodworker can add to a van build.
Looks like you put a lot of thought into this build! As someone who lived almost a year on the road. That rainfall shower is, in my opinion, not the best choice. A wand wash, with and off/on in the handle is the best option. 100L of water does not las very long with a traditional shower head. But with a wand, you wet yourself - shut it off, soap up, then rinse. You can shower in 3-5L of water, vs 20-30L of a shower head! Good luck!
This is extremely impressive! There were like 10 things i haven't seen or heard of after having watched hundreds of hours of videos about designing and building van/tiny homes. Really impressive!
Sounds like you’ve thought it all through. I lived in a van for a year when traveling around Europe in. 2019. Found we never used the shower cause 1 minute showers in a cramped space sucks. And you have to carry loads of water which is extra weight which means using more petrol etc. We found the local swimming pool or gym worked better for showers and were reasonably priced. Anyway best of luck with the build
Lived in our van for a year whilst travelling, your design looks awesome! One thing, swerve that rain shower idea if you're using that Truma heater. You need a shower head with a push on/off button so you can stop the water whilst applying shampoo/shower gel. Otherwise you will run out of hot water very quickly/mid shower in colder months. Edit: Also consider the diesel version of the Truma or the JP Heater (Chinese version). Our first van had LPG heating and used to munch gas, diesel is much easier to get hold of!
I enjoyed your video. I built a temporary layout with 2x4 lumber and Kreg screws secured to floor using longer bolts in the factory hold down locations. Extra tie downs for bed and heavy items. Safe? You decide. Camped in it two full summers-13,000 miles. Temporary water, cooking and 12v Dometic compressor fridge. Permanent heat using Espar. 2 max-Air vents & fully insulated with walls & ceiling. Temporary Victron system with 300O Multiplus and 400ah LifePo. Learned what works and what doesn’t. Learned I want to venture farther off road in North America than a 170wb 4x4 Sprinter will be comfortable doing. Found out Mercedes needs to get their act together. They build a fine vehicle but 12 Recalls in 2 years!?! Most were for software issues-that could result in safety concerns. This is way too many to inspire longevity confidence. Shopping for my next, older, simpler, more off road capable conversion candidate.
Superb video. For years I have got lost in many a youtube wormhole of Off Grid Campervan Builds, and would love to build one myself. I have a furniture making company which is why I watch your content, and was delighted to see you attempting a build yourself because I can very much relate to the way in which you develop your ideas and plans by being super self critical and very much open to accepting if an ideas is shit after a lot of work. It's how a good idea gets turned into a great product. Keep it up mate and I can't wait to see the final result
great content. very similar to Greg virgoe's layout ( which I based my lwb sprinter on) I like some of the tweeks you are giving it. I went with swivel plates driver and double. Fitted minibus seat on front of loo . foot space in front of minbus seat then a bench with truma 4e. I made a table that fits above bench, It can un-hook and stows on brackets under bed . The table has slide out extension so 4 can eat or when stowed 5 can sit in that area. The table can hook on the back of sink unit so can be set up outside. I really like the thought you've put into it all. I have used Greg Virgoe as my bible but tweeked to suit our family. Good luck I'll following your progress
Absolutely brilliant I have been wondering about compatible building software for a range of project applications and you hit the nail on the head as well as recommending the bible campervan resource. Thank you, much appreciated and i have subscribed.
Good luck with the build. Making a good van conversion is a LOT of work - people seriously underestimate all of the various issues and considerations to make it work well.
My brother has a yacht, so I got my hands on a couple of books on boat joinery (one by Mike Saunders, one by Fred Bingham), Fascinating read on construction and space utilisation. Probably very similar to the van conversion book. They had a lot of detail on corners and construction.
A few years ago I built a mobile surveillance office in a transit van, complete with a 10 meter mast with a PTZ camera on top, I had a great time doing it
Loving your van build series and getting some great ideas for my future van build. Re the gas system: Have you heard the latest that service stations are ripping the gas fill points out and replacing them with EV charging points at rate of up to 10 a day. The plan is to have replaced all LPG gas in UK service stations within in the next year. Europe seems to be still OK as no-one reporting these being replaced (yet!)
Thanks for the video. Exciting project. The foam core ply looks very useful. UK Govt is considering giving all car drivers the pre-1997 right to drive up to 7.5t. They’ve already given pre-97 trailer licence to all car drivers.
Thanks matt, that was such an eye-opener, so many things to consider that I would have not thought of. I have often thought about doing a van conversion but always been put of due to cost of having a second vehicle. After you mentioned about the driving licence categories I checked my licence and turns out I have a C1+E on mine (standard licence issued in 93), that is just mad to think that there is people out there like me with no training that can jump into a vehicle and trailer that weights upto 12 ton and be allowed to drive it.
@@MattEstlea2 yip I looked it up last night after watching your video. I hope you enjoy van life and the winters are not to tough on you. I spent a 1 1/2 years in a caravan and it was not for me, winters were seriously hard going, no water in winter and a couple of times there was also ice inside my working boots. Wishing you all the best, hope it works out for you.
12ton is the max weight for a truck and trailer combination. C1 is for vehicles from 3,5-7,5tons (only). Just in case anyone is planning a 12ton van modification. 😅
A lot of work on a very thought out van design. You may already be away of his videos but Nate at Explorist Life has a number of videos on not only design of electrical (and other systems) systems but also very detailed demonstrations of how to cut, strip, crimp etc. the actual wiring and fittings. BTW, Nate highly recommends using ferrules on the ends of wires. I absolutely agree with you about using Victron products. I am in the process of completely replacing the electrical system in my class C motorhome with solar, lithium and Victron products. Good luck, looking forward to your build and final product.
Great to see a video from a person on the same wavelength: meticulous research, planning, spreadsheets, details, thinking -- all in advance. I've been exploring same terrains for a while too, with addition that my thinking is very budget conscious, while yours is more like "no expense spared"; and I'm leaning toward Ducato/Relay/Boxer SWB (L1H1) or L1H2. Foamcore ply is an interesting find. I wonder if same material can be made cheaper DIY by sandwiching regular insulation foam from DIY stores, 1mm plastic (to add rigidity) and 1mm plywood (for cover). Coupled with clever T-section aluminium welds, this would make very sturdy, but very light shelving, drawers and kitchen unit - without sacrificing the homey wood-look&feel. I agree on underslung LPG tank (btw, you don't mention the size/capacity), but Truma Combi costs a whopping £1400-1800 - a bit too much for 10L water heater which you have to wait a while for. Instead, I'm thinking Propex heater with split air-vents: one for heating the van, and one for heating the insulated hot water tank with a dedicated aftermarket system. Search UA-cam for "Cheap Hot Water For Camper" or "Bobil". Another very simple and cheap DIY hot water "system" that I've seen (can't find the video again) is having a hole in the kitchen counter with a hose running to the bottom of the hot water tank. Just boil a kettle and pour down the hole (with a funnel). Couple of boiling 1.7L kettles, when mixed, should give you plenty of warm water (37-41 degrees) for a shower. Seal the hole with a bottle cork when not in use ;) Simplicity! You didn't say anything about insulation. I think it is the key to energy usage, soundproofing, WEIGHT, and rigidity. After considering many pros-&-cons, I'm leaning toward sprayfoaming the whole thing. Where in the UK are you based?
As far as where to start, it may be helpful to consider the stages of home construction. Although I have not built a conversion van yet, I'm a contractor, so I would use the stages of construction as a reference.
Gen-X here! I disagree on the 3.5t limit. We wanted to be able to stay out for long and we wanted a 4x4. And it becomes very easy to be over the weight-limit of 3.5 with a Sprinter. So we choose something a bit more substantial. It comes with its own limitations, but I don't regret it at all. It enabled us to build the van we needed.
Hi Matt, Just wanted to say, your choice for the victron system is in my opinion a good one. We have been using them in our submersibles for a long time and they last. Also, living on a island with a lot of boats, I can not overstate the value of a solid, reliable and most importantly SAFE electrical system. You’re living in there after all. Always flabbergasted by how dodgy people wire up there camper vans. Do check your voltages every other year, as those victron converters due to to construction of tend to travel a bit from there initial set point. Greetings from curaçao
Badass, man! You have put in a tremendous amount of effort into your new van life living. Thanks for sharing and can't wait for more videos cause I really enjoy watching you and what you do!😊
Hi Matt, can I suggest that you take a look at incinerating toilets, rather than the composting one you're planning. They just strike me as a more elegant (although more expensive) solution to the problem.
Hey - boomer here. I've been living full time in a 27' caravan for the past year (don't ask) and when I started, green, last winter I used the forced air gas heater. I was cold - until I turned the blower off and just used it as a convection heater. For my bathroom I use an electric fan-heater. Mine has a big sticker saying "NOT TO BE USED IN A BATHROOM", but I know that others wouldn't be so stupid. The ability to close off the living space from the bedroom is invaluable to the goal of keeping warm in the colder months.
Hi Matt- Subbed and excited to see your progress. Love the videos so far. Out of interest, would you be interested in making your sprinter 3d models available? I've not been able to find any LWB/XLWB models which include detail such as the ribs along the roof.
Hi Matt. This is awesome and so useful. One thing l learned in my build and mentioning this as you are investing in the victron kit. Have you considered a 48v system and/or get rid of gas? It looks like you are installing a 3K multi plus? 48v is the direction I am taking in my build. Check out the victron multi rs solar. It’s a 6kva inverter/charger and it’s 🎉only 11 kg and has a built in mppt. Speak to Steve at Roamer batteries can help plan the elec system and supply the 48v battery. Those guys are awesome. And best of all check out Safiery. It’s an Australian brand but does bi-directional 12-48v “Scotty’s” for 48 to 12 v.
Great video man. You're similar to me, I've had a 4x4 T1N Sprinter in storage in the UK since before Covid while I've been in New Zealand unable to build it out. This has lead me to thousands of hours tinkering on Sketchup and honestly, I'm so bloody glad. My plan is 100x better that what I'd drawn up at the start, soooo much better to have the time to really think it through and refine it. I was quite interested in that 3D scanning program too, will have to look into that! By the way, one thing that stood out to me after becoming a Sketchup abuser is how your toilet is accessed via the garage, but if your garage is loaded up storing things, won't you have to remove everything to get to it?
Re weight distribution and water tank, bear in mind a 100 litre water tank only weighs 100 kg when it's full. It's a big tank, might be worth splitting it across either side.
Can I suggest you consider a casette toilet. These are used extensively in Australia as they are very hygenic, never have smells and are easy to empty, the waste bio-degrades. In our climate composting toilets are smelly. In the UK they can be empied into any standard toilet or CPD, same as Australia. Also the cost of a composting toilet is twice that of a casette toilet.
Looking forward to seeing the rest of the build. Have you thought of using steel C section or U section for the studwork in the partitions? It may save a bit of weight compared to timber studs
@@MattEstlea2 Only wanted something as a outline to get planning. Chances are I'm not going to end up with a sprinter, but for a rough idea I could use a couple of models to get planning with. Your a like me, I build along the green axis and use the red as ideas that may not make it. You know if you have a lot of models to work in the centre as moving around can get a little goofy. I think you can add an axis point too, or maybe only when working in a component. Have you checked out Justin's UA-cam channel, the guy with a baseball, whhattttsssss up everybody 😁
Man, standard license in the US covers everything up to 26000 lbs gross vehicle weight plus up to 10000 lbs towed. That covers pretty much every motor home up to the very largest diesel pushers, and lets you pull your SUV!
I don't know if it's an issue but have you thought about weight distribution lengthwise? If the center of gravity is too far back it will effect both breaking and stability. What about making an external access to empty the toilet?
You have talked about maximum weight in relation to UK drivers' licences, but maybe you should also mention the GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) limits of the actual vehicle as well (just for the uninitiated). One of those things often overlooked.
Hi Matt I know you're busy as shit with your new site but when's the next van build I need some tips 😁 also how can I access your spreadsheet for sorting the van weights out. Thanks a lot for your help good luck with your builds.
It may be your intention but as you didn’t mention it, or have it in your spreadsheet, please don’t forget smoke alarm/co detector/extinguisher/fire blanket which really are essentials.
About the laundry rack: Those are very normal in labs to hang flasks and stuff like that. Maybe not original but you can claim you're well educated and know your way around labs :D Still great idea tho :D
havent seen your videoes for a while. Nor this one. But just wanted to comment. Have you thought about making a murphy bed? Cause it will make you tons of space having kitchen and bedroom in the same space ^^ Get yourself a nice shower/toilet area in the back or something too.
Are you going for USB ports or cigarette lighter with adapter for USB / USB C? The USB ports look nicer but understand they’re restrictive on power and everything is moving to USB C now.
The loo access is accessible from the front of the van? As a fellow lazy bugger with the addition of carrying 20st I soon discovered what a pain in the arse it was squeezing into a tight poorly designed access area to drag out my toilet cassette I have on my narrowboat, so the thought of getting out of the van, going to rear doors, removing everything from under the bed then crawling under the bed to retrieve a poo bag is never gonna happen.
Plastic may be lighter, but it has a bad influence on the quality of air - it manages to annihilate negative ions in the air. Negative ions in the air attach to impurities, making them heavier and causing them to settle down as dust. With them in the air, they settle in your lungs. That's why we enjoy air after a rain or near a white water creek - the water creates a high concentration of negative ions in the air.
Due to the popularity of this Van Conversion series, I am relocating it to a dedicated Van Conversion Channel! youtube.com/@mattsvan
The Matt Estlea 2 Channel was originally for shitposting and used as a proving ground for ideas we have, without the risk of damaging the main channels (Matt Estlea) ranking in UA-cams search algorythms. Ideally we'd like to continue using it for this purpose, but are concious of clogging up the feeds of people who only signed up for van related content. Hence the dedicated channel.
It also means I can use the dedicated channel for travel vlogs and other van related content once the conversion is complete which sounds fun. Go subscribe!
Hey Matt, just wated to say a huge thanks for the recognition and shout out, I'm just starting my second van build, so have also been doing hours of research and planning. Your build series popped up and with your carpentry background and youthful outlook it had me hooked, I'm subbed and will be following your progress with great interest. Hope it goes smoothly for you and look forward to seeing it develop over the coming weeks. Best wishes Greg
Can't wait for Matt's Van Life merch that just says Eatin', Sleepin', Poopin', Workin', Drivin', Sittin'😆
NOW THAT IS AN IDEA
Shut up and take my money!
Fantastic resource for ppl looking to do this. My brother in law is looking to convert a van. I’ll make sure he sees this. Thank you for sharing.
OMG!!! Thank you for sharing!!!! I'm about to watch this a second time!!! Thank you!!
23:30 re weight distribution of water: Instead of having one 100L tank on one side, you could have two 50L tanks on both sides, connected with a thin pipe at the bottom. This will keep the water levelled. I've seen it done in other conversions.
I tought the same, because tank will be empty and full from time to time and that will create a 100kg difference
Totally agree. When weight distribution is such an important factor, having one element that can be anywhere from 100Kg to zero Kg will make a huge difference in the handling and stability of the vehicle. Its the same principle they use on aircraft and ships.
I too recommend second this approach, water determined weight is not something that is a constant, a 100 liter tank weighs 100 kg one day, but on another day you may be 100kg heavier on one side due to an empty tank.
I'd also support the idea of two (or more) evenly distributed and self-levelling tanks. The biggest impact on handling isn't when the tank is full or empty, but when it is half-full and the water can slosh around.
Looking good! There are just two things that I would reconsider:
The shower: a rain shower can use up to 20L/min giving you 5min of showering time every time you refill. Not even talking about heating 100L of water in 5min. I would really advice on having a smaller showerhead with a push button so you can wash instead of shower. This makes it possible to clean yourself with just a couple of liters of water. You can of course still build the rainshower for aesthetic purposes and for when you are connected to a hose.
The step/laundry/poopybusiness hatch in the garage. Why have a garage if you are only going to use it to access a small hatch in the back. Emptying your garage to empty your loo is something a lazy person wouldn't do. I think it's not neccessary for the laundry but I like the idea of the external emptying of your number two. Would it be possible to position the toilet differently and have an access hatch on the side of the van? Maybe harder to realise but it would be so so so much more practical!
Good luck with the build :)
Jesus Matt take a breath.... Lol.
Nice to see you back, glad you mentioned Greg, he really did so much more research than any van builder on youtube.
Will be nice to see what a great woodworker can add to a van build.
Looks like you put a lot of thought into this build! As someone who lived almost a year on the road. That rainfall shower is, in my opinion, not the best choice. A wand wash, with and off/on in the handle is the best option. 100L of water does not las very long with a traditional shower head. But with a wand, you wet yourself - shut it off, soap up, then rinse. You can shower in 3-5L of water, vs 20-30L of a shower head!
Good luck!
This is extremely impressive! There were like 10 things i haven't seen or heard of after having watched hundreds of hours of videos about designing and building van/tiny homes. Really impressive!
I made my own ply using some XPS I got from B&Q and some 3.6 mm flooring ply. It was amazingly strong!
Sounds like you’ve thought it all through. I lived in a van for a year when traveling around Europe in. 2019. Found we never used the shower cause 1 minute showers in a cramped space sucks. And you have to carry loads of water which is extra weight which means using more petrol etc. We found the local swimming pool or gym worked better for showers and were reasonably priced. Anyway best of luck with the build
I have just run across your channel and it is GOLD!!! Super helpful, thank you so much!
Lived in our van for a year whilst travelling, your design looks awesome! One thing, swerve that rain shower idea if you're using that Truma heater. You need a shower head with a push on/off button so you can stop the water whilst applying shampoo/shower gel. Otherwise you will run out of hot water very quickly/mid shower in colder months.
Edit: Also consider the diesel version of the Truma or the JP Heater (Chinese version). Our first van had LPG heating and used to munch gas, diesel is much easier to get hold of!
I enjoyed your video.
I built a temporary layout with 2x4 lumber and Kreg screws secured to floor using longer bolts in the factory hold down locations. Extra tie downs for bed and heavy items.
Safe? You decide.
Camped in it two full summers-13,000 miles.
Temporary water, cooking and 12v Dometic compressor fridge.
Permanent heat using Espar.
2 max-Air vents & fully insulated with walls & ceiling.
Temporary Victron system with 300O Multiplus and 400ah LifePo.
Learned what works and what doesn’t.
Learned I want to venture farther off road in North America than a 170wb 4x4 Sprinter will be comfortable doing.
Found out Mercedes needs to get their act together. They build a fine vehicle but 12 Recalls in 2 years!?! Most were for software issues-that could result in safety concerns. This is way too many to inspire longevity confidence.
Shopping for my next, older, simpler, more off road capable conversion candidate.
Excited to see this van built out irl!
Enjoyed your van layout video and this USA Greg Virgo is a new subscriber.
Superb video. For years I have got lost in many a youtube wormhole of Off Grid Campervan Builds, and would love to build one myself. I have a furniture making company which is why I watch your content, and was delighted to see you attempting a build yourself because I can very much relate to the way in which you develop your ideas and plans by being super self critical and very much open to accepting if an ideas is shit after a lot of work. It's how a good idea gets turned into a great product. Keep it up mate and I can't wait to see the final result
great content. very similar to Greg virgoe's layout ( which I based my lwb sprinter on) I like some of the tweeks you are giving it. I went with swivel plates driver and double. Fitted minibus seat on front of loo . foot space in front of minbus seat then a bench with truma 4e. I made a table that fits above bench, It can un-hook and stows on brackets under bed . The table has slide out extension so 4 can eat or when stowed 5 can sit in that area. The table can hook on the back of sink unit so can be set up outside.
I really like the thought you've put into it all. I have used Greg Virgoe as my bible but tweeked to suit our family. Good luck I'll following your progress
Absolutely brilliant I have been wondering about compatible building software for a range of project applications and you hit the nail on the head as well as recommending the bible campervan resource.
Thank you, much appreciated and i have subscribed.
Good luck with the build. Making a good van conversion is a LOT of work - people seriously underestimate all of the various issues and considerations to make it work well.
My brother has a yacht, so I got my hands on a couple of books on boat joinery (one by Mike Saunders, one by Fred Bingham), Fascinating read on construction and space utilisation. Probably very similar to the van conversion book. They had a lot of detail on corners and construction.
A few years ago I built a mobile surveillance office in a transit van, complete with a 10 meter mast with a PTZ camera on top, I had a great time doing it
Loving your van build series and getting some great ideas for my future van build. Re the gas system: Have you heard the latest that service stations are ripping the gas fill points out and replacing them with EV charging points at rate of up to 10 a day. The plan is to have replaced all LPG gas in UK service stations within in the next year. Europe seems to be still OK as no-one reporting these being replaced (yet!)
Thanks for the video. Exciting project.
The foam core ply looks very useful.
UK Govt is considering giving all car drivers the pre-1997 right to drive up to 7.5t. They’ve already given pre-97 trailer licence to all car drivers.
Thanks matt, that was such an eye-opener, so many things to consider that I would have not thought of. I have often thought about doing a van conversion but always been put of due to cost of having a second vehicle. After you mentioned about the driving licence categories I checked my licence and turns out I have a C1+E on mine (standard licence issued in 93), that is just mad to think that there is people out there like me with no training that can jump into a vehicle and trailer that weights upto 12 ton and be allowed to drive it.
12 ton?! Is that what the limit is? 😂 oh my lord I didn’t expect it to be that high. I’d have guessed 5ton max
@@MattEstlea2 yip I looked it up last night after watching your video. I hope you enjoy van life and the winters are not to tough on you. I spent a 1 1/2 years in a caravan and it was not for me, winters were seriously hard going, no water in winter and a couple of times there was also ice inside my working boots. Wishing you all the best, hope it works out for you.
12ton is the max weight for a truck and trailer combination. C1 is for vehicles from 3,5-7,5tons (only). Just in case anyone is planning a 12ton van modification. 😅
Can't wait to watch this develop - good luck with the build. :)
Sounds like a very well thought out project
First time I've seen you Matt. Really enjoyed your vid.
Sounds good Matt
A lot of work on a very thought out van design. You may already be away of his videos but Nate at Explorist Life has a number of videos on not only design of electrical (and other systems) systems but also very detailed demonstrations of how to cut, strip, crimp etc. the actual wiring and fittings. BTW, Nate highly recommends using ferrules on the ends of wires. I absolutely agree with you about using Victron products. I am in the process of completely replacing the electrical system in my class C motorhome with solar, lithium and Victron products. Good luck, looking forward to your build and final product.
God this was fun to watch. Love how well thought out everything is.
Great to have you back Matt
Great to see a video from a person on the same wavelength: meticulous research, planning, spreadsheets, details, thinking -- all in advance.
I've been exploring same terrains for a while too, with addition that my thinking is very budget conscious, while yours is more like "no expense spared"; and I'm leaning toward Ducato/Relay/Boxer SWB (L1H1) or L1H2.
Foamcore ply is an interesting find. I wonder if same material can be made cheaper DIY by sandwiching regular insulation foam from DIY stores, 1mm plastic (to add rigidity) and 1mm plywood (for cover). Coupled with clever T-section aluminium welds, this would make very sturdy, but very light shelving, drawers and kitchen unit - without sacrificing the homey wood-look&feel.
I agree on underslung LPG tank (btw, you don't mention the size/capacity), but Truma Combi costs a whopping £1400-1800 - a bit too much for 10L water heater which you have to wait a while for. Instead, I'm thinking Propex heater with split air-vents: one for heating the van, and one for heating the insulated hot water tank with a dedicated aftermarket system. Search UA-cam for "Cheap Hot Water For Camper" or "Bobil".
Another very simple and cheap DIY hot water "system" that I've seen (can't find the video again) is having a hole in the kitchen counter with a hose running to the bottom of the hot water tank. Just boil a kettle and pour down the hole (with a funnel). Couple of boiling 1.7L kettles, when mixed, should give you plenty of warm water (37-41 degrees) for a shower. Seal the hole with a bottle cork when not in use ;) Simplicity!
You didn't say anything about insulation. I think it is the key to energy usage, soundproofing, WEIGHT, and rigidity. After considering many pros-&-cons, I'm leaning toward sprayfoaming the whole thing.
Where in the UK are you based?
Great design!
Amazing! Thanks for sharing! ❤️
As far as where to start, it may be helpful to consider the stages of home construction. Although I have not built a conversion van yet, I'm a contractor, so I would use the stages of construction as a reference.
Gen-X here! I disagree on the 3.5t limit.
We wanted to be able to stay out for long and we wanted a 4x4. And it becomes very easy to be over the weight-limit of 3.5 with a Sprinter.
So we choose something a bit more substantial. It comes with its own limitations, but I don't regret it at all. It enabled us to build the van we needed.
Hi Matt,
Just wanted to say, your choice for the victron system is in my opinion a good one.
We have been using them in our submersibles for a long time and they last.
Also, living on a island with a lot of boats, I can not overstate the value of a solid, reliable and most importantly SAFE electrical system.
You’re living in there after all.
Always flabbergasted by how dodgy people wire up there camper vans.
Do check your voltages every other year, as those victron converters due to to construction of tend to travel a bit from there initial set point.
Greetings from curaçao
That floor plan is beyond clever! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 What is the length of your van again? Thanks 🙏🏻
oh boy i cant wait for the next videos. Hope you will have fun buiding it mate.
Brilliant one Matt and so through. Thank you.
Badass, man! You have put in a tremendous amount of effort into your new van life living. Thanks for sharing and can't wait for more videos cause I really enjoy watching you and what you do!😊
Instead of rock wool you could also use dodomat insulation wool. It’s also made from pet bottles. Works like a charm 😊
Hi love the plan you have done some very thoughtful ideas. One question your vertical drying rack how will it hold to plates?
thanks matt
Tkaks for your help from México
Hi Matt, can I suggest that you take a look at incinerating toilets, rather than the composting one you're planning. They just strike me as a more elegant (although more expensive) solution to the problem.
Brilliant! 👍
Laddie and Margaret did an underneath water tank with a electric heater to stop freezing. Might help out with weight distribution and internal space
Hey - boomer here. I've been living full time in a 27' caravan for the past year (don't ask) and when I started, green, last winter I used the forced air gas heater. I was cold - until I turned the blower off and just used it as a convection heater. For my bathroom I use an electric fan-heater. Mine has a big sticker saying "NOT TO BE USED IN A BATHROOM", but I know that others wouldn't be so stupid. The ability to close off the living space from the bedroom is invaluable to the goal of keeping warm in the colder months.
Hi Matt- Subbed and excited to see your progress. Love the videos so far.
Out of interest, would you be interested in making your sprinter 3d models available? I've not been able to find any LWB/XLWB models which include detail such as the ribs along the roof.
Since the sprinter van is used often in van builds, is there someone offering a workable interior 3d scan for others to use for layout purposes?
Now this is going to be fun 🎉
Get some cardboad boxes and shape them into your space to give you an idea, look and feel for the walls and furniture.
Hi Matt. This is awesome and so useful. One thing l learned in my build and mentioning this as you are investing in the victron kit. Have you considered a 48v system and/or get rid of gas? It looks like you are installing a 3K multi plus? 48v is the direction I am taking in my build. Check out the victron multi rs solar. It’s a 6kva inverter/charger and it’s 🎉only 11 kg and has a built in mppt. Speak to Steve at Roamer batteries can help plan the elec system and supply the 48v battery. Those guys are awesome. And best of all check out Safiery. It’s an Australian brand but does bi-directional 12-48v “Scotty’s” for 48 to 12 v.
And would save the weight/ danger of gas😂
Great video man. You're similar to me, I've had a 4x4 T1N Sprinter in storage in the UK since before Covid while I've been in New Zealand unable to build it out. This has lead me to thousands of hours tinkering on Sketchup and honestly, I'm so bloody glad. My plan is 100x better that what I'd drawn up at the start, soooo much better to have the time to really think it through and refine it.
I was quite interested in that 3D scanning program too, will have to look into that!
By the way, one thing that stood out to me after becoming a Sketchup abuser is how your toilet is accessed via the garage, but if your garage is loaded up storing things, won't you have to remove everything to get to it?
Re weight distribution and water tank, bear in mind a 100 litre water tank only weighs 100 kg when it's full. It's a big tank, might be worth splitting it across either side.
Awesome vid 👌
Can I suggest you consider a casette toilet. These are used extensively in Australia as they are very hygenic, never have smells and are easy to empty, the waste bio-degrades. In our climate composting toilets are smelly. In the UK they can be empied into any standard toilet or CPD, same as Australia. Also the cost of a composting toilet is twice that of a casette toilet.
Great video
Good video.
I use Sketchup for my home and landscaping work. Very, very useful for building something before you actually build it. :D
Looking forward to seeing the rest of the build. Have you thought of using steel C section or U section for the studwork in the partitions? It may save a bit of weight compared to timber studs
Great video, have you got the files for all of those versions of the van? Sketchup is great, to a degree.
Most of them got ripped apart due to the fact I was reusing components when drafting updated versions!
@@MattEstlea2 Only wanted something as a outline to get planning. Chances are I'm not going to end up with a sprinter, but for a rough idea I could use a couple of models to get planning with.
Your a like me, I build along the green axis and use the red as ideas that may not make it.
You know if you have a lot of models to work in the centre as moving around can get a little goofy. I think you can add an axis point too, or maybe only when working in a component.
Have you checked out Justin's UA-cam channel, the guy with a baseball, whhattttsssss up everybody 😁
Man, standard license in the US covers everything up to 26000 lbs gross vehicle weight plus up to 10000 lbs towed. That covers pretty much every motor home up to the very largest diesel pushers, and lets you pull your SUV!
I don't know if it's an issue but have you thought about weight distribution lengthwise? If the center of gravity is too far back it will effect both breaking and stability.
What about making an external access to empty the toilet?
Hi Matt can you share a link to the Sletchup videos please
You have talked about maximum weight in relation to UK drivers' licences, but maybe you should also mention the GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) limits of the actual vehicle as well (just for the uninitiated). One of those things often overlooked.
vertical drying racks are commonly used in chemistry labs.
Hi Matt I know you're busy as shit with your new site but when's the next van build I need some tips 😁 also how can I access your spreadsheet for sorting the van weights out. Thanks a lot for your help good luck with your builds.
Massive weight-saver for the van - haircut.
Hey, awesome video. Is there any way you could link me the van measurement files for someone like me who doesn't have a sprinter quite yet?
It may be your intention but as you didn’t mention it, or have it in your spreadsheet, please don’t forget smoke alarm/co detector/extinguisher/fire blanket which really are essentials.
Good shout. Will make sure those are included in the build!
Just a note on LED lighting. If you're affected by LED flickering, which can cause fatigue and headache, aim to buy non-flickering ones.
Noted! Thank you :)
About the laundry rack: Those are very normal in labs to hang flasks and stuff like that. Maybe not original but you can claim you're well educated and know your way around labs :D
Still great idea tho :D
Matt (Estlea) now sounds like (Super Fast) Matt with the past and future Matts... "That's a problem for Future Matt."
havent seen your videoes for a while. Nor this one.
But just wanted to comment.
Have you thought about making a murphy bed? Cause it will make you tons of space having kitchen and bedroom in the same space ^^ Get yourself a nice shower/toilet area in the back or something too.
Plastic pipe for corners
4xoverland used the victron inverter to run a welder 😁
Thats impressive!
7:35 Matt - what if that toilet could slide under the bed to make a full-size shower room?
I did think that but it'll be blocked by the water tank! I could revisit it though...
Are you going for USB ports or cigarette lighter with adapter for USB / USB C? The USB ports look nicer but understand they’re restrictive on power and everything is moving to USB C now.
14:12 you said you were going to have 12v usb plugs. I assume you know usb type A only supports 5v. If you want more you will have to use type c PD
Oops! Yes my mistak, I am aware they only support 5v. I meant it'll be on the 12v circuit. Thanks for pointing that out :)
I’ve researched this several times but I think I missed what kind of vehicle it is? What’s the wheel base?
Are you sure 100l is enough? Maybe you could have 150 more bellow the van.?
The loo access is accessible from the front of the van? As a fellow lazy bugger with the addition of carrying 20st I soon discovered what a pain in the arse it was squeezing into a tight poorly designed access area to drag out my toilet cassette I have on my narrowboat, so the thought of getting out of the van, going to rear doors, removing everything from under the bed then crawling under the bed to retrieve a poo bag is never gonna happen.
I'll have the option to empty it from both the front or the back :)
@@MattEstlea2 so the front 99% of the time :D
Good job! Is it possible to share the link of the tiny house video featuring the copper pipe shower please ?
ua-cam.com/video/YTRiH_rzDUw/v-deo.html
I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.
Are there anymore updates on the van Matt??
Gen X baby
You still need a vent for the bathroom to vent out the humidity from the shower and such.
He's adding a roof hatch there - active venting is unnecessary, just open a door and the draft will pull the humidity away.
@@velianlodestone1249 Hey, whatever but convection works only so well.
correct me if im wrong, but last time I looked, sketch-up wasn't free?
When do you plan to have the van finished?
Where have you sited the grey water tank?
Plastic may be lighter, but it has a bad influence on the quality of air - it manages to annihilate negative ions in the air. Negative ions in the air attach to impurities, making them heavier and causing them to settle down as dust. With them in the air, they settle in your lungs. That's why we enjoy air after a rain or near a white water creek - the water creates a high concentration of negative ions in the air.
Luare Kampf, your doppleganger, is planning it as she builds it. She had to rip out the interior once already.
Nice video. I would consider Instant Boiling Water Tap for your drinking water. Ok this is coming from a tea drinker.
Oooo now there’s a shout. I’ll have to make sure the power draw is low enough though!
Holy moly…
hi matt the google van weight spreadsheet is locked how can i access it cheers mate
Where are you going to keep all your tools?
Don’t forget to add a couple usb-c to your usb panels.