So I was fortunate to be able to buy a “new” van last year and over the last 4 months I have been slowing adding things to it. My objective with the van was 2 main things, first it needs to function-able for every day life (wife, 2 kid and 2 dogs) and the second thing it need to be was function-able for work.
So I set out a list of things I need to have for work and a list of things for family and the list grew, from and converter to charge the laptop for work to more seats for the family. While keeping it to a budget.
So where did I begin? Well I turned a VW T4 into a camper van a few years ago and I learnt a shed load from that. So I First, started with a strip down of the van. Taking out all the roof panels and ply lining off so the van was back to metal. From this I could see what wiring was all ready in place and adjust it to where I want it to be but also place in new wires for the additional things like spot light on the rear door.
Seconded, I sound proofed the van to kill any vibrations while driving but also when it rained it would not be as loud, and carpeted the panels and walls.
Third, I got the window installed. I would of loved to be able to fit them my self but I don't have the right tools and the confidence to do the job well, besides if theirs a problem it under warranty.
Forth, middle row of seat fitted. Once again I got a company to supply and fit these, at the time the information I got was the Insurance company would want a certificate of fitting standard, it turned out they where not bothered nor was the DVLA, But least i know they are fitted right and are safe.
Fifth, building of the shelving. Now the rack was the most important part as it had to be lower enough to fit the dog cage in the back, but high enough to fit my work equipment underneath and have enough room to live in the back when doing D of E courses. Oh it also had to be removable as well. after taking lots of measurements and working out where and how things would work. I made it out of MDF and left over wood in the garage to help keep the cost down. Once built I carpeted it to make it fit in with the rest of the van.
Sixth, put the van back together, this was the fun part as all the hard work of cutting, measuring, carpeting, gluing and soldering all comes together to the finish product.
Seventh , Add ons. These are the little things that will make my life a little easier and hopefully generate more work or just finish of the look of the van to a professional look. These things included a tow bar, roof bars, seat cover, mud flaps and hand free kit.
What next? Well I need to buy a side step and rear threshold as they did not come with the van and putting my logo on the van to hep get my name out there, but apart from that not much else.
What would you suggest I need to get for the van? Leave your ideas in the comments below.
Many thanks for reading
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