Below we have summarised the key factors of our van conversion.
Van base-
We first prepared the van by treating any rust and imperfections. This was followed by sound deadening and insulation which consists of dodo dead Matt, celotex and a space thermal blanket. This has very high thermal values and which we have personally tried and tested before. We then lined over the insulation with reflective vapour barrier to remove the possibility of any condensation build up. We have thermally insulated blinds for all the windows to minimise any heat loss. Finally the walls were lined with hard wood ply painted in a tough and durable valspar paint allowing you to easily wipe away dirt.
Kitchen
The kitchen has been lovingly crafted by hand and made from lightweight pine to create a eye catching and practical work space. Shaker style doors painted in a rich grey embellish the kitchen frontage and are mirrored throughout the conversion. We decided to use concrete effect compact laminate worktop because of its durability and clean look. There is ample space for cooking and all other daily needs. We have chosen to pair the tops with a simple black glass 2 burner hob supplied by camping gaz (located under the sofa in a gas box to hold 2 x bottles). Opposite to that we have a deep brushed black metal sink which is perfect for everyday needs. The work space is well lit from 3 adjustable spotlights which run on there own dimmer switch. A 50L SMAD 12v fridge has been installed capable of holding all of your essentials. A 240v inverter outlet has been fitted on the side of the kitchen allowing you to run Blenders Etc. At the end of the kitchen we have built a top to floor cupboard which holds most of our clothes with the capability of hanging, a full length mirror on the door and our hand built composting toilet in the bottom. On the side of the cupboard next to the rear door we have plumbed in a outdoor shower which enables you to wash from the back of the van.
Living area/Bed
From our past experience we decided that functionality and comfort are two things we would not compromise on. Taking this into account we decided a corner sofa was the way to go. We fitted 3 windows in the van (side opening) and a Dometic roof vent to maximise the natural light. For us it maximised the views when sipping our morning coffee and it gives us an open space to socialise. The cushions are made from memory foam and upholstered with faux suede removable covers. Not only is the sofa an amazing space to relax it also doubles as a pull out double bed capable of sleeping 2 tall adults and the possibility of one more underneath. Plenty of storage for bedding and possessions can be found under the cushion pads one accessed from a chest style lid and the other via sliding doors. Opposite the sofa you will find the water storage compartment capable of holding 50L of fresh water and 25L of waste water. Equipment such as the water pump, sureflow filter and accumulator are found in this area also. Located at the end of the bed we have installed an efficient 8kw self contained diesel heater which is perfectly capable of warming the van on a cold winters night.
Electrics
We have gone for a simple and efficient electrical setup which is easy to use and minimal to maintain. The system has been designed with off grid travel its priority meaning you will very rarely need to connect to mains electricity. Perfect for anyone looking to hit the wilderness and escape modern life. Below is a list of components and features used in the set up:
CTEK battery to battery charger
Solar charge controller
2000w inverter and isolator switch
2x150w solar panels
Fuse board
240v mains hook up
Consumer unit
Hook up cable
2 gang inverter outlet
2 gang mains socket
3x double usb sockets
2 gang cigar socket
Custom switch panel
3x touch dimmer panels
Volt metre
8x dimmable LED downlight
4x adjustable LED spotlight
2x 110 AH Numax deep cycle leisure battery
Purchased 6 months ago this a 2015 MWB Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 313 CDI 6 speed manual with 113,375 miles on the clock. Our van has been very well looked after with full service history (last service carried out on 24/11/2020) and all paperwork included. This van has 2 previous owners, 2 sets of keys and has a valid mot until June 2021. This van comes with all the features including cruise control,rear parking camera, bluetooth functionality, rhino roof rack with roof deck, a custom made rear ladder and a 42” light bar. In the past 6 months we have had the clutch and dual mass flywheel replaced, both front tie rods replaced, 2 new tyres, front brake discs and pads and front wipers replaced. The condition in the cab area is immaculate with no tears in the seats and very little sign of wear. Overall this van has been well maintained, kept in good condition and is ready to go exploring!
Price: £30,000
Contact: c.j.beach@hotmail.co.uk
Source: www.quirkycampers.com