dougiequick
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Looking for DIY modular class B rig sources and ideas
Hi I have never owned anything more than a van conversion and all my camping has been of the very primitive style compared to the RV crowd. But these days I have convinced myself to obtain something along the lines of whatI was thinking would be class B RV...after reading various opinions here however, maybe what I have in mind might end up being less than what qualfies as that and more along the lines of a Camper Van...I am unsure of the rules there for what is what. Anyway I am very discouraged by how few vehicles of the size I have in mind seem to be on the market right now! I see quite a few used vehicles that are even more than a couple years old that are priced above $100K! That suggests to me less supply than demand in class B RVs! I am therefore looking at the possibilities in doing a DIY bare essentials conversion to one of the many well priced low milage late model Diesel Sprinter Vans available (or equiv) I know the end result is going to be nothing like the well appointed factory offerings available but will just be at best workable for my needs. I have found sources for many items I might want such as a pop-top, generator, A/C unit, dual voltage refrigerator etc. I have a ton of tools and know how in various things and I'm a retired electrician...and even better than that I have money to throw at problems if need be. What I would rather not do though is to reinvent the wheel where there is no good reason to. Is there some web sites or magazines dealing with RV DIY builds and modifications? I'd like to see how things are done as far as insulation and paneling and what the best materials choices are for flooring etc. One thing I would love to find ideas on, is a way to make a lightweight collapsible bed/loft using ultra strong web material, perhaps what the black trampolene mats are made of? In other words that can be suspended tightly accross the back part of van to create a bed foundation wall to wall? Add an aero bed air mattress and I have a an ultra light weight totally removable compact to store bed and or storage loft solution! This seems so DUH! to me so I have to ask if it is already a common thing? Does anyone sell kits for this? Or do I have to DIY from scratch? I have in mind to do as much of the interior with the same philosophy of being removable. For instance I found the Engle ice chest style portable dual voltage refrigerator/freezer units and also another company that makes a self contained portable oven/two burner range combo. By fabricating means where these can be quickly connected and fixed into place so that they perform as "built in" while remaining portable and modular,/removable ...THAT is my idea for many things throughout the vehicle I have in mind. I just need ideas for wallboard. moldings, etc etc...also best insulation? sources, various tanks and pumps, fittings, hoses etc.?? Has anyone seen RVs or designs for something like what I have in mind?2.5KViews0likes7Comments
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