The only problem I can see with stuffing fiber insulation in the doors is now they will collect and retain moisture. Insulation in the lower panels is why a lot of trucks and vans rust out in the first place. If you ever looked in the cab corner on a early 2000’s Chevrolet Silverado you know what I mean. These trucks are rust magnets. I would never put anything it’s going to obstruct the drain holes in the doors or body. Instead I would concentrate on putting insulation on the inside panels of the doors themselves and leave the doors open. Give the inside of the doors a good coat of fluid film and let that stuff soak in to help prevent rust. I’ve been using this trick and inside of the panels on my 2006 Silverado and that has done the trick so far. Even if you don’t live in the Rust Belt this is important to at least leave those drain holes open. I can really appreciate the care and meticulous thought that you put into this van.
Wow. I'm a girl who checks out these videos for future van life...usually the hominess of the builds is what interests me...But this was SUCH a good video showing what else can be done. This must have cost quite a bit overall(?)...But I guess, good to have those special friends who know what they're doing! Gorgeous job!
@@slayerd4th hey man, I'm just starting on building out a Safari in a similar fashion to yours, which is awesome by the way! Wanted to see if there is any chance you can supply the builder that made your roof rack? I'm hoping they stored the build file, or could possibly build one for me. Thanks!
I have a GMC Safari cargo and use it every day. So good to see someone else love these vans as I do. A little money makes a huge difference. I also picked up an AWD Astro and got it for parts, but it runs so good, I am going to restore it as a backup for my GMC.
Love the colors/textures/simplicity...also AWD is a nice feature for boondocking plus all weather driving ANYWHERE. At 100,000 miles, these type of vans go easily to 250-300,000 miles all day long...so the entry level makes sense..not too pricey and still lots of life left. Very smart, understated, it inspires my build. You can easily change the interior without structural difficulty. I happen to be CRAZY about having a hot shower in the desert and would design a solar thermal tank integral to that rack and a shower head at the rear or side. That rack invites a lot of opportunity for experiment. Well done. Thanks! I would play a Steely Dan tune..(but then I am an old dude)..:)
Having had a ton of vans and having converted two tons the insulation makes a big difference. What you chose is now going to start to rot your doors from the inside out since any heat or cold inside will condense and then that rock wool or whatever will hold the moisture. You should have put adhesive sound deadener on first then just used a closed cell sheet foam or spray foam making sure the drain holes in the bottom of the doors are clear.
I bought a 1995 Astro Van a month ago for a project, the ladder, racking top, the fan, and the rubber spray in a great idea. Thanks. Your GMC is 🔥 good team.
Great build! That roof rack is definitely next level. I like that this is so stealth- I want to do one in basic white just like this so it looks like a basic work van from the outside when I’m urban camping
I had a AWD Astro. Best factory 4x4 van built. I took mine out on low tide thru the channels on the Pacific, and up steep hills in the snow. Made the kids sledding have to wait for me. LOL!
Dude, that's so frickin awesome! I have a 2001 safari and I love it. Imma painter and its perfect. Ladder racks, shelves in the back and everything . I live in the bay area and I could totally live in the back of it especially if I had the skills you do which I dont. Either way, very cool.
A friend of mine sent me a picture of a GMC Safari Van parked at a Trader Joes. I responded, I have seen that van on UA-cam. That video gave me the idea to install the GMC cargo van grill on my 2000 Astro. small world.
As someone who built a Sportsmobile-knockoff Ford Econoline (LWB) 4x4 and did extensive travel in Baja California, two things I learned based on that build which I'll make likely apply to my next setup: solar just isn't as practical as it seems and just know that if you drill holes in the roof, it absolutely will leak. Water always wins. Would be extremely interesting to compare notes with you after a couple of years have gone by. (you can see some videos of my van on my channel)
I do hope you get a good alarm system to protect this baby! I mean she is nice, I would get a good page alert + noise maker to ward off any sort of break in. Sayer you did a great job here. best of luck to you and your good times to come!
I counted 4 times where you cut the mic off in the middle of the sentence, and I wasn't paying close attention. Something wrong with the recording software?
my 03' Astro with 127k well cared for miles without warning developed a high oil pressure problem blowing the oil filter gasket and then immediately shaved an engine rod bearing. I hope that you have better luck with that Vortec V-6. But hey I was lucky enough to be a GM employee that with my discount brought the cost of a GM rebuilt crate engine down to the low low cost of just $2,400 and labor is only $2k. I love my beautiful southern rust free raised roof Astro conversion van. P O S. A very rare problem I had indeed,yet it did occur. Evidently a pressure relief valve in the oil pump failed. A new oil pump is a relative easy job for a DIYr and total only about a 100 bucks for pump n gaskets. Ya might want to consider. Good vid, good job,looks great sir. thumbs up
I had an AWD Safari and loved it. One thing you should know that might help you at some point. On a road trip I had a CV joint go out on the front drive shaft. Took the shaft out and drove home in 2wd. Here’s the thing to remember..... Park wont hold as it uses the front wheel part for that so remember to set your parking brake.... Oh, you can have a custom shaft made cheaper than you can buy a stock one from GM.
I like your editing your video on the transfer case straight to the point good content good camera angles can’t wait to watch all your videos new subscriber
great project and great result, only issue with the video is the audio keeps going in and out, so miss alot of commentary, but over all awesome job, i love these vans and think chevy did a real disservice to its customers by dis continuing the line
i had an Astro a while back and had to sell it to help out my family and finally found another one in good shape and low mileage being a 2000 it still needs lots of small things that add up quick but as long as it runs i can throw $200 a week into it but since i got it i have done the ignition control module, distributor cap and rotor, I am doing the plugs and wires this week and next week i will do the brakes and the week after that the suspension, next will be the wiring for the gauge cluster which has my gas gauge broken, then the turn signal switch and wires, then finally something fun, some custom exhaust! probably going to have to adress the passenger side window motor soon also lol its small stuff nothing bug like an engine and transmission but holey moley the never ending list of little things gets overwhelming quick
This van build is identical to the drawings I've made up for my 2001 safari. I was having trouble deciding if I wanted a roof rack or panels installed on top and I love the way you've incorporated both. I've recently decided I cannot continue my build without the help of a carpenter. If you have any schematic drawings, or a material list you used for this van please give me a shout!! I travel a lot for work, and although the super 8's I usually stay in are nice, I want a space I can call my own anywhere I may end up.
Sweet build! I've been checking out the Astro/Safaris for an Overland build. Still not sure whether I'll go that route or a fullsize van, but this one is sweeet!
I just got a 1999 astro van i wanta bulid it for camping but having a hard time finding Fermeldhide Free Materials all wood paneling lumber plywood pressboard insulation have fermeldhide in them
GREAT BUILD! WITH THAT DO ALL SHOP, MAYBE YOU ARE "THAT GUY" THAT SHOULD BE FABRICATING ROOF RACKS, FRONT AND BACK BUMPERS? I'M TOO OLD TO START A BUSINESS THAT INTENSE. ENJOYED THE VIDEO, GOOD STUFF!
Those guys who built that roof rack did a lot of work to get it like that. Cheers to them
I agree. I'm in the market for a roof rack like this. Where do I go and who do I talk to? Thanks.
The only problem I can see with stuffing fiber insulation in the doors is now they will collect and retain moisture. Insulation in the lower panels is why a lot of trucks and vans rust out in the first place. If you ever looked in the cab corner on a early 2000’s Chevrolet Silverado you know what I mean. These trucks are rust magnets. I would never put anything it’s going to obstruct the drain holes in the doors or body. Instead I would concentrate on putting insulation on the inside panels of the doors themselves and leave the doors open. Give the inside of the doors a good coat of fluid film and let that stuff soak in to help prevent rust. I’ve been using this trick and inside of the panels on my 2006 Silverado and that has done the trick so far. Even if you don’t live in the Rust Belt this is important to at least leave those drain holes open. I can really appreciate the care and meticulous thought that you put into this van.
Wow. I'm a girl who checks out these videos for future van life...usually the hominess of the builds is what interests me...But this was SUCH a good video showing what else can be done. This must have cost quite a bit overall(?)...But I guess, good to have those special friends who know what they're doing! Gorgeous job!
thanks for watching
I agree
@@slayerd4th hey man, I'm just starting on building out a Safari in a similar fashion to yours, which is awesome by the way! Wanted to see if there is any chance you can supply the builder that made your roof rack? I'm hoping they stored the build file, or could possibly build one for me. Thanks!
I have a GMC Safari cargo and use it every day. So good to see someone else love these vans as I do. A little money makes a huge difference. I also picked up an AWD Astro and got it for parts, but it runs so good, I am going to restore it as a backup for my GMC.
Love the colors/textures/simplicity...also AWD is a nice feature for boondocking plus all weather driving ANYWHERE. At 100,000 miles, these type of vans go easily to 250-300,000 miles all day long...so the entry level makes sense..not too pricey and still lots of life left. Very smart, understated, it inspires my build. You can easily change the interior without structural difficulty. I happen to be CRAZY about having a hot shower in the desert and would design a solar thermal tank integral to that rack and a shower head at the rear or side. That rack invites a lot of opportunity for experiment. Well done. Thanks! I would play a Steely Dan tune..(but then I am an old dude)..:)
Having had a ton of vans and having converted two tons the insulation makes a big difference. What you chose is now going to start to rot your doors from the inside out since any heat or cold inside will condense and then that rock wool or whatever will hold the moisture. You should have put adhesive sound deadener on first then just used a closed cell sheet foam or spray foam making sure the drain holes in the bottom of the doors are clear.
thats what I thought but didn't want to say anything.
This is madness!!! Your van looks amazing!! Have a great time with it! I took some notes as I will be converting my Astro van as well!
I bought a 1995 Astro Van a month ago for a project, the ladder, racking top, the fan, and the rubber spray in a great idea. Thanks. Your GMC is 🔥 good team.
Great build! That roof rack is definitely next level. I like that this is so stealth- I want to do one in basic white just like this so it looks like a basic work van from the outside when I’m urban camping
Just bought a 99 Chevy Astro. Can’t wait to build it through
I had a AWD Astro. Best factory 4x4 van built. I took mine out on low tide thru the channels on the Pacific, and up steep hills in the snow. Made the kids sledding have to wait for me. LOL!
Good on you I put a 4.8 a 233 tranver case lift kit and off road ties i made my awd have low range and free wheel hubs keep Vining bro
Sweet build. I did an astro van myself. 20mpg AWD and the Vortec v-6 is very powerful. Great vans
AWD would be NICE! My 93 e150 will spin out going uphill at a constant speed on frosty roads.
You put a lot of time, effort, and resources into this. My favorite part has to be the rack, MAN that thing looks beefy!
love the minimalistic style!
Great build. I just bought myv4th Astro this week. It is my first AWD, though.
This rig is freaking gorgeous. Excellent job brother
That rhino lined paint job makes the van! Love it!
Very thoughtful and intelligent build. Like the roof rack platform especially! Happy trails!
I also have an Astro van and a 2000 GMC Safari I really like what you did your van looks really good bro congratulations
Beautiful rebuild. Thanks for sharing. I love the roof rack.
I'm looking into buying an Astro for work and life in general, this setup fits both criteria wonderful. Your Van belongs to a museum.
Nice looking van, I like what you did with it. There's just something about a small van.
Dude, that's so frickin awesome! I have a 2001 safari and I love it. Imma painter and its perfect. Ladder racks, shelves in the back and everything .
I live in the bay area and I could totally live in the back of it especially if I had the skills you do which I dont. Either way, very cool.
Nicely done I've always wanted a 1986-93 Gmc Safari or Chevy Astro Van earlier models
What a beauty! Thanks for the details and ideas.
The coolest van build I've seen yet! Well done dude!
Those vortex v6 engines have been known to go 300k without issue.
Mine is at 380k and still going strong.
I watch a lot of this kind of videos this is definitely my fav build out there.
A friend of mine sent me a picture of a GMC Safari Van parked at a Trader Joes. I responded, I have seen that van on UA-cam. That video gave me the idea to install the GMC cargo van grill on my 2000 Astro. small world.
very cool! your friend was pumped about your build, and my van. thanks for watching.
Dude, I love it. Bad ass. Super simple and at the same time super functional in so many ways. Well done.
You are number 1 my friend the best van build that I ever saw, just incredible
As someone who built a Sportsmobile-knockoff Ford Econoline (LWB) 4x4 and did extensive travel in Baja California, two things I learned based on that build which I'll make likely apply to my next setup: solar just isn't as practical as it seems and just know that if you drill holes in the roof, it absolutely will leak. Water always wins. Would be extremely interesting to compare notes with you after a couple of years have gone by. (you can see some videos of my van on my channel)
Love it! from a Safari owner.
Awesome van! Great job hope you are still using it!
I do hope you get a good alarm system to protect this baby! I mean she is nice, I would get a good page alert + noise maker to ward off any sort of break in. Sayer you did a great job here. best of luck to you and your good times to come!
I counted 4 times where you cut the mic off in the middle of the sentence, and I wasn't paying close attention. Something wrong with the recording software?
Thought it was judg my phone lol
@@brandondannys-menary3678 yeah i came to the comments hoping it wasnt just me
Yeah that was annoying
What a relief, I was hoping that wasn't just on my end "whew" ; )
Agreed. This video was almost good, but those mic cutoffs completely ruined it.
that roof setup is exactly the setup im going for
That looks amazing! I’m still day dreaming about building one.
my 03' Astro with 127k well cared for miles without warning developed a high oil pressure problem blowing the oil filter gasket and then immediately shaved an engine rod bearing. I hope that you have better luck with that Vortec V-6. But hey I was lucky enough to be a GM employee that with my discount brought the cost of a GM rebuilt crate engine down to the low low cost of just $2,400 and labor is only $2k. I love my beautiful southern rust free raised roof Astro conversion van. P O S. A very rare problem I had indeed,yet it did occur. Evidently a pressure relief valve in the oil pump failed. A new oil pump is a relative easy job for a DIYr and total only about a 100 bucks for pump n gaskets. Ya might want to consider. Good vid, good job,looks great sir. thumbs up
What a great build so far! exterior is super finish. Rich
I had an AWD Safari and loved it. One thing you should know that might help you at some point. On a road trip I had a CV joint go out on the front drive shaft. Took the shaft out and drove home in 2wd. Here’s the thing to remember..... Park wont hold as it uses the front wheel part for that so remember to set your parking brake.... Oh, you can have a custom shaft made cheaper than you can buy a stock one from GM.
looking forward to seeing how you evolve
Great job on the build! Looks real clean!
Looks great dude. My teardrop trailer is rhino-lined black and looks cool. I like your choice of van. Nicely done.
You did a great job! Love the sea foam color!
good looking van! nice mint blue!
Beautiful work bro congratulations.!
Thanks for this video! I really enjoy hearing your reasoning and intentions behind the build.
Love the rhino liner. I'm prob gonna do mine like that too. 😊
I like your editing your video on the transfer case straight to the point good content good camera angles can’t wait to watch all your videos new subscriber
Such a rad build! Really digging that color!
Nice build! 👍🏻
I have 2 of those fans in my RV, moves a tremendous out of air 👍🏻
Nice attention to details!! Enjoy
I wasn’t a fan off rhino lined paint jobs, but I got to say it looks good when done right!
Awesome! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Awesome build! Looks great!
Verrrrry nice. Can't wait to watch part 2!
Makes me wish I still had my '98 AWD Astro.
Really awesome, sir. Very impressed. Probably my favorite one yet.
Looking Awesome Van Great work 👍
Nice we have a Chevy Astro Cargo Van awesome Rigs
I like how you didn’t put music in your video and the van is sick !!
I own a '98 Astro and you gave me some great ideas
wow ,must to be really nice have a talent to make something like that. Really nice
love this colour, just about to get ready to paint my GMC and can't find this colour anywhere!!!!
great project and great result, only issue with the video is the audio keeps going in and out, so miss alot of commentary, but over all awesome job, i love these vans and think chevy did a real disservice to its customers by dis continuing the line
ill do better audio next video
Bullit Man I use head phones, pass downs from my gamer roommate !!
@@slayerd4th I have a astro van 2004 I want lift what kind tires I have to buy
looks awesome. great job
nice, looking chevy van. Random vanners east coast VA. 2%
i had an Astro a while back and had to sell it to help out my family and finally found another one in good shape and low mileage being a 2000 it still needs lots of small things that add up quick but as long as it runs i can throw $200 a week into it but since i got it i have done the ignition control module, distributor cap and rotor, I am doing the plugs and wires this week and next week i will do the brakes and the week after that the suspension, next will be the wiring for the gauge cluster which has my gas gauge broken, then the turn signal switch and wires, then finally something fun, some custom exhaust! probably going to have to adress the passenger side window motor soon also lol its small stuff nothing bug like an engine and transmission but holey moley the never ending list of little things gets overwhelming quick
Like your license plate! very cool. :)
Great job. Very cool build.
Looks good. Nice job.
This van build is identical to the drawings I've made up for my 2001 safari. I was having trouble deciding if I wanted a roof rack or panels installed on top and I love the way you've incorporated both. I've recently decided I cannot continue my build without the help of a carpenter. If you have any schematic drawings, or a material list you used for this van please give me a shout!! I travel a lot for work, and although the super 8's I usually stay in are nice, I want a space I can call my own anywhere I may end up.
Awesome paint and build!!
Fabulous job!
Sweet build! I've been checking out the Astro/Safaris for an Overland build. Still not sure whether I'll go that route or a fullsize van, but this one is sweeet!
Very Nice Build!
nice work and I like this car Ive got one right now 1993 AWD it's awesome
Very similar to what I’m doing with my Ford e-250. cheers
Thats pretty dope! dunno bout that gold ladder but hey! nice plate
I just got a 1999 astro van i wanta bulid it for camping but having a hard time finding Fermeldhide Free Materials all wood paneling lumber plywood pressboard insulation have fermeldhide in them
Rad build! I plan on doing something very similar to a 2006 awd sienna
trickyduc I do it on Odyssey 08
Exactly what I want in my e150. A work van/camper
Very nice build.
looking very good! can't wait to see some more updates.
Nice build! You should paint the GMC logo gold to match the ladder.
getting some good ideas for my safari van, thanks!
pretty awesome build thumbs up
I like these old GM vans because these engines will last forever
What kind of floor is that.? Looks great 👍🏻
This thing looks awesome
GREAT BUILD! Love that Rhino stuff! Great ideas for mine. I have a 96 Astro.
This thing is inspirational
That thing is TUFF!
GREAT BUILD! WITH THAT DO ALL SHOP, MAYBE YOU ARE "THAT GUY" THAT SHOULD BE FABRICATING ROOF RACKS, FRONT AND BACK BUMPERS? I'M TOO OLD TO START A BUSINESS THAT INTENSE. ENJOYED THE VIDEO, GOOD STUFF!
Wow! Awesome job, luv it!
Rock Wool ! No water,no bugs nontoxic !
I love it. Sweet build dude.
Turned out good bro. 👍. Wld be awesome to have one of those tent type sleepers to go up on that roof rack similar to the toyota ones when u wna camp.
Maybe you could do a quick video on the reasons you selected this type of van?