DYI Custom Build estimate
I am trying to get an idea of how much I should plan to spend for a conversion (ballpark figure). I plan to buy a used high top long bed empty cargo van. I have a place I can do the work and the tools...
Forum Discussion
Handbasket wrote:
I'm picturing a van built in stages... start with the bare, hopefully new, van. Add a few amenities (mattress, ice chest, porta-potti, extra battery, etc), try it out on a short weekend trip. Secure things so they aren't 'flying object hazards' in a wreck, but keep the means impermanent. Figure out what you want next, repeat.
The reason? I really doubt you could get a complete camping van right the first try. You don't want too much work, and loss of previous work, when you find that something already 'permanently' installed is in the way of something you really, really need, or forgot. For instance, that one wiring circuit for that one essential item of gear, that _has_ to go behind the wall covering that you glued in place with really goooood glue last month.... Oooops!
I know pretty much about these vans, having owned two B's & a class C, and being both 'how's it built' curious & a tinkerer. I have many tools, and moderate DIY skills covering the gamut from plumbing to wiring to mechanics. I still expect I'd have a few 3 steps forward, 1 step back moments.
Yes, visit web sites of as many B makers as you can find. Study floorplans, look at details in photos. Go to RV lots, crawl all over B's, take notes and photos. You can stick a digital camera or phone under a van to arm's length and snap away, aiming by guess. Lots of pics, and lots of time studying them and the catalog I mentioned.
Jim, "What you are experiencing is not a problem. It is an undocumented feature. Thank you for calling Microsoft."
I agree. Nothing more heavy then buying a bunch of stuff and then not using it.
