Thomas, as for the heater outlet, just fix a 90 degree elbow to it that you can angle towards the back of the van or ceiling so the air isn’t pumping straight out the door.
I was thinking the same thing. I also noticed the vents in the head of the cabin, if could flip the heater 180 degrees, you could pipe in to the pre-existing vents.
@@Lindenism they say don't tap into you vehicles ducting due to the fact that these diesel heaters get much hotter than the vans heater. it can melt them. I would also worry about a 90 degree elbow right at the outlet of the heater the way this is set up. That may restrict airflow and over heat the unit.
@@bobbyswampfox Yeh, all ducting should have the path of least resistance, so the use of 90 deg elbows should be restricted, so maybe a 45 deg bend and then another 45 deg bend, further down a bit. Difficult in a vehicle this small.
My recommendation is that you get a van sponsor and petrol sponsor. 500,000 targeted customers (and growing) at a nominal cost. I predict this will be one of your most watched videos. In terms of the learning curve, yes experience brings wisdom. Thanks
@@ThomasHeatonPhoto Yeah. It happens. Look at race drivers. But your followers are very targeted. Have to be a more internationally recognized name. I would recommend a Winnebago Revel, or something comparable. I can recommend a good lithium battery pack of at least 500 amp hours and the ventilation will be built in. 4 x 4 is essential, at least in my opinion. My van is some thing that I had to do a lot of modifications to as well, but after nearly 4 years, I would certainly go the route I’m recommending.
Thomas, thanks for an outstanding van build series. I’m in the planning stage for a part time camper van build, not a van lifer sort of guy. I’ve watched more videos than I can count and can say I’ll be using/stealing many of your ideas!!
You did a great job. I'd still like to see you add a roof vent. This might solve the door open when the heater is on problem. See ya next week. It's interesting to me that your channel is a great photography channel but your most popular video is the van build. You never know I guess.
Roof fans and shrouds, along with accompanying closable and screened floor inlet are a must on all van builds. I run mine on a temp relay to kick on whenever the van get hot...which is often...Australia.
I remember being knocked out by your build videos. I had no idea building on custom aluminum frames at home was even a thing, and you did it so well. Great to see you're still going in what is still a fantastic build!
You asked who was watching - me as a beginner to car camping who is interested in bird photography. I have a £4k Nissan X-trail and am about to kit it out for very little money just to enable me to get away for a few days at a time. Really enjoyed the video. Cheers!
A top of the range California is now about £85.000 new. I have a 10 year old California, excellent condition, but I still like to watch van builds etc. Thank you for posting.
If you have to open a door to run your diesel heater you have it installed wrong and need to move the exhaust or something. Use the pillow covers for your sleeping bag and some clothes to get extra space. Great build and don’t sweat the power supply you can get something close when it needs replaced. Have fun traveling and stay safe.
I converted my vw caddy to a small camper and took it all the way to the Noth Cape a few years ago. Excellent fast little stealth camper. Very cheap to buy and convert a tiny van.
Excellent! Someone might have already said this and you DID NOT ask for advice so take this with a grain of salt. Until you relocate your heater, I have seen several van dwellers place their diesel heater in a less accessible space and can’t the heat to where they want it with dryer vent hose. Those wide aluminium hoses that vent your dryer out of the house? They place the hose at the heater outlet and run the hose to the place(s) they want the hot air to blow out. The hose is often tucked behind a cabinet or down a wall but you don’t necessarily need to hide it. Just grab a leftover piece of vent hose, point it past the door and you will then benefit from more heat blowing into different parts of the van and the door will also stay in place more reliably. Just a suggestion as the season has turned but we still have at least one more cold snap before Easter. There is a RUclips channel for a couple, now retired, who travel in a little red camper and I think that is the name of the channel. You might watch a few of their videos for ideas that allow two people to stay in such a small place relatively comfortably.
Hi there, I’ve run Delicas as off-road camper vans for 12 years now and have found them the absolute dogs when it comes to getting further than other vans, I ran a swb for the first 6 years and then got the lwb which I still use, mine are both 2.8 turbo diesels, I’ve tweaked the boost pressure and upped the fuel flow and they have plenty of power, also i run one used cooking oil and bio diesel so very cheap to run. Would never sell mine there the best, I can send pics if your interested, keep up the fantastic work 👍
It was thanks to your van build series that I started watching your channel, and I've been watching ever since. I now have a DSLR camera and I'm slowly learning how to use. Thank you, keep up the great work 👍
Size. Fuel economy. Diesel is good. 4 wheel drive very good. I saw the “off-road” video, not bad. I used a long wheel base Chevrolet one ton, v8 engine (terrible mileage), “Moby Van”, great white van! No bed! No insulation. Cold! Van was cheap, a work in progress. Oh, I’m retired. No income to speak of. I do like your van.
I watched this episode, because some viewers of SUVRVing were commenting about your build using aluminum instead of plywood and 2x4s. Now I am off to watch your original build episode.
Ive got the same Delica and get better fuel economy - I’d suggest getting rid of your roof rack and everything on it if you want to improve yours. Drag from even an empty roof rack will cause your fuel economy to go down noticeably. Also the weight of you build would be nothing compared to having stock seats and 5 passengers, stock springs would cope fine, if they were sagging it was just because they had gone weak . Returning it to stock height would also improve fuel economy.
Also. I stuff my heavy sleeping bag inside a large pillow case and use it for the couch back support. Stuff yours inside that long pretty one. Then you have more cupboard space.
Hi Thomas, I used to own a long wheelbase version of your van. 1992 2.8 diesel version. I also did a similar camper van layout as you did. I used it for mountain biking trips. I could just about fit 2 people in (expanding width type bed) and due to the extra length could fit 2 mountain bikes in the tailgate area with the wheels off. A note about front brakes: due to the fact that these vans have usually sat for months or years in japan, the front brakes can partially seize. I would always recommend replacing both calipers with new factor ones. Cost is quite low and if you're mechanically minded and have a friend to help push the brake pedal to bleed them, will only take a day to do both. Don't bother trying to repair old brake caliper pistons! I've nearly finished my latest motorhome build based on an ex-Tesco Iveco delivery van. Keep an eye out, I'll be touring about the UK!
It reminds me of the space I had in my old 24ft yacht - good sitting room, easy to manouevre single handed, cosy when cold out, camping stove taken out from a locker, using a bucket for the loo etc. Last year I upgraded to a 28ft yacht and it's made a world of difference having standing headroom, an inbuilt engine, bigger cabin, its own heads. The small increase in length gave a lot more interior volume and the boat isn't too big to handle. It'd be good to see you get out on the water and take some seascapes, or views of the land from the water rather than vice versa.
I brought a non custom Transit a couple of months ago to convert from bear bones, not started it yet though have most of the materials and gear for the build including a heater. Thought I'd just use it as is for a while to decide what I want and where I want it before I start. Use of an inflatable bed has been ok and guess will continue to be for a few more weeks but wakening up by the side of a high-ish altitude Welsh lake in Snowdonia with 6 inches of frost on the inside last weekend wasn't my idea of a good time. A cup of coffee and two sausage sarnies later (post sunrise) all was good. I appreciate your yay's and nay's, it's given me a couple of points of reconsideration to the position of items. As I'll be building it as an 'off grid' camper I'll be installing a 12volt power invertor but plan on carrying a Jackery for back up. Solar panels is something else to think about.
To immediately increase your under seat storage get rid of those plastic boxes. I use stuff bags, labelled, and canvas bags that you can 'shove' in and mould to the area. The heater issue is easily fixed, with an elbow joint, or if you're a tight wad like me, open a window instead and keep the door shut. Also, increases your security at night. I have a Citroen Berlingo I converted as a full timer, in the UK, and I get 620 miles a tank on a long Motorway trip up North.
I have a suggestion for your clothes. You mentioned replacing pillows. Use pillow cases and store your cloths in them. Duo purpose and easy to get too.
I'm in love with the delica look! I've previously dreamed of doing vanlife, but gave up. I really want to get a delica and build it as a camper to go on adventures. Who knows, vanlife may happen down the road.
Those Delicas look nice and your honest review is refreshing. But they are small for storage. Being able to stand in a van (high roof) is the most valuable asset IMHO. Who would watch your video? Another landscape photographer with a high roof DIY Sprinter conversion.
Being able to be comfortable, warm and dry is a huge thing when out and about in the wilds- that’s a huge huge plus! You did a fantastic job with the build.
If you put a small bit off tubing a right angle you could direct the flow from your diesel heater so it would put the heat out the other direction possibly
You could use a hashing net above the passenger seat or toward the back. Pockets hung off doors or a panels Roof wind deflector, may save some fuel Ref: Cushions, empty the filling out & put other things you use inside, obviously things that are fabric, clothes jackets then the cushion covers are fuel purpose 😉🇬🇧 Great little video mate, well done✌🏻🍺
Great to see a year on review. I'm about to make all the same mistakes but happy to do so! Driving one of these things is worth more than the extortionate price of petrol! Take care.
I take it the front brakes are disc, when you next have a little spare time have a look and see if the anti squeal shims are on the back of the pads and a bit of high temp copper grease the shims and grease work wonders
I'm 76 and I've had nothing but vans my entire life. I'm also a landscape photographer and I agree that a van is the essential landscape photography accessory. Unless you can find a pre 07 Sprinter, stay away. My 04 has been flawless for 170K miles, but the new ones? Not so much. Far too complex and expensive. If I were starting afresh, it'd be a gasoline powered Ford Transit. I nearly got a Delica myself, but for me, it's too small. My 04 Sprinter regularly delivers 30 mpg and is an absolute delight to drive. Like your Delica, it's as agile as a goat. For those early mornings or rainy days, the extra floorspace and stand up headroom have proven themselves over and over. My single occupant build is as simple as possible and I've spent as much as 5 weeks footloose in western North America and never wanted more. I carry 100l of freshwater. Love all your camera mounts. And your shows, for that matter. : ) Keep 'em coming. Especially the drone work.
I found your insights very valuable. My wife and I are making plans to start full time RV living. Whilst we will be pulling a trailer, your tips about camera mounts, gear storage, and more are invaluable. Internet connectivity will be a big issue for us as our trailer will be our home base and must have high speed Internet for video uploading. Excellent pointers in this video. Thank you!
I have a diesel heater in exactly same position, with a 45 degree diverter. I have wind deflectors on both driver/passenger windows and have driver’s window open an inch at night. Stops rain coming in and allows for fresh air too. Heater inlet is under drivers seat so ideal. HTH.
So much goes into your stellar production, and yet it is so seamlessly put together that one tends to forget that behind your beautiful talent there's also a lot of work for us! Cheers, Thom
By far the nicest van conversion I've seen. I think that came from your attitude that the van was to be a tool to enable you to get out and do what you love doing - landscape photography, rather than thinking of creating a home on wheels. By deciding what was essential for you, you managed to keep it simple and very functional, you knew how you wanted it to work. Minimalist in the best way. And a very clean, slightly industrial aesthetic to it, too, but with some warm, rich colours to prevent starkness. Simple sophistication! You've clearly got a designer's brain. In one of your videos you said you wanted everything to be ready to use - none of the moving this and adjusting that to get a working bed etc. So many vans are too 'clever' to be properly usable. Yours seems to hit the sweet spot between mattress on the van floor and 1930s bungalow with velor sofa and knick knacks on wheels! Few seem to manage that.
Regarding size, for years I drove an old VW Type 2 bus conversion. I used it for 2 to 3 week camping trips. It was probably about the same size as yours but what made it liveable was a pop up roof. Pop the roof when camped and you could stand up. Maybe you could look into fitting a pop up roof? The one I had went up sideways and then pushed out the other side. Gave you some "bunks" up top aka, place to store stuff when parked up.
I have a L400 too however its a different set up with cooker/fridge/sink at the back and its a 2.8 diesel. Kayak permanently on the roof with a slim top box. On fuel costs remove weight. I notice you have a tow bar. That is a dead weight and an encumbrance off road as too are those motorised side steps. Also get free wheeling front hubs so your not moving dead transmission weight when not in 4WD.
Looks great, very jealous. I use a Volvo XC90...no conversions but very nice to be able to stealthily sleep in the back with a small foam mattress at photo locations.
Given you're not a professional at retrofitting vehicles, I thought at the time you did an amazing job on the Delica and I'm still of that opinion. The mileage? Well, you added hundreds of pounds of weight to the thing so something had to give, I guess. My only concern is its balance. As you said, its wheelbase is narrow. That might make it a bit top-heavy and I wonder how steady it feels when you drive off-road. Fascinating video overall though. I'm not mechanical at all and I can't imagine undertaking this job myself.
These vans handle amazingly, even with a roof load. Can go anywhere most standard use 4x4s can. It's a Pajero/Triton with a van body. Very capable vehicles on sand, mud and literally designed for snow and ice (most common use is ski resort transfers, hence the 8 original adult sized seating.
You need to build you a 90° extension for your heater vent. You can use something simple like PVC. That way, you can redirect the heat backward and not just be aimed at the door. All you need to do is heat up a 90° PVC connector of the same diameter, and then the PVC can easily be molded to fit it inside the existing vent hole.
I have a 98 gasser and a 2001 diesel. Definitely use the diesel for my filming and scouting. Way better bang for my buck. I love what you did to your Delica.
Had a 2002 delica myself briefly I bought it knowing it needed rust repairs but it was too far gone for me to undertake on my drive. Can I suggest getting some good rust protection to the chassis box sections on yours. Few common problem arias front chassis legs sills rear chassis infront of axle. This is a double section which is difficult to access but can corrode badly before it becomes visible. Great build you've done. I wanted mine for my 4x4 hobby and mountain biking weekends away. Currently building a nissan Patrol but with roof tent
I recently read that in the some states in the USA (Maine is one) have started to de-register these vehicles, which I think is unfortunate. I concur that having a camper van is the best thing as a photographer. I bought a Ram Promaster and had it converted, just returned from my first long trip in it. Brilliant! It's not as capable as the 4x4 Delica, being only front wheel drive, but when I was out aurora hunting the other evening it was great to be able to be out and then come back in to warm up. I love the care & attention that Tom took to create his van - the year review is a testament to the craftsmanship. Well done, sir!!! And yes, your home, the UK, is splendid. Look forward to a return visit when the world is sane again....right?!
Still looks good mate. My diesel Deli only manages 18mpg so I wish I had the petrol engine as it must be so much nicer to drive. Good to see you lifted it. You should really fit upper ball joint spacers when you do that. I had 2 sets machined when I lifted mine so have a spare set if you need them. They come with proper angled top plates as well to stop the stress on the bolts being at the incorrect angle. Your suspension will be topped out with little or no room for rebound and also your camber will probably be way off as well.
Yes, 2.8 litre seems a bit of overkill and it will absolutely drink fuel. Methinks these were designed for towing which maybe explains why so many have towbars. I'd get one of thee because I love the 4x4 overland style but after a few months and the novelty wears off I'd be asking myself why i need a 2.8 litre?
I really like your Delica and the conversion you made. I also have a Delica :) There are several options for cruise control for cars that use a mechanically operated throttle. 1. The best option, I think. Rostra 250-1223 universal cruise control and Rostra 250-3743 Universal Column Mount Cruise Control. No Vacuum Required 2. Waeco MS50 with Vacuum.
Not to mention since you have that jackery power supply you could also hook that up to your solar power and charge it that way and even though it is a cloudy day you'll still have more than enough to charge that battery up or to supplements battery power
Hi Thomas, You had inspired me towards a Delica. But being 6'3" and aiming at slippery, icey, roads and camping not off road I thought I'd aim for a long Wheelbase high roof... Now watching your 1year...and you finding lack of room... Soo glad that I did... Thanks heaps Going to take my sweet time doing any build though.... Minimal to start with.
Indeed, you did a good job on the van. As you said, there are compromises due size, but I think you have the good end of the stick there Mr H. Happy camping!!
That was and is still one of the best small camper builds I've seen. One word of advice, if thats petrol which is the 3.0 I believe, please make sure to have the timing belt replace if you haven't done so!! It would be a shame if that snaos at some point on a long drive. If you have the 2.8 diesel then keep driving as those are timing chains. Be safe 🙏
Getting my own photo van and doing landscape (mainly of populated areas) photography is a dream of mine. I'm currently making the best use of the train, but even if I get on the first one of the day I still miss my favorite time to be out in (and not) nature - before the sunrise. And in areas with no public transport hiking for hours to get up to a good vantage point with all your geat is real hard work!
Very timely Thomas - my wife and I are just in the process of building out our Nissan e-nv200 inspired by your build (aluminium profile features heavily!). Thanks so much for the inspiration, we're taking it skiing this weekend as we are based in Norway :)
I'd say that is a great public service video! Great idea. You need a van selfie! Sit or stand on top of it with a tripod like the F4 Roadtrip shot. Seems like something you might want to have ten years from now.
Great job with the van and the van video, Thomas. I might have missed it but I don't recall your mentioning one of the most positive attributes of your van: 4-wheel drive when you need it. This is what gives you the confidence to go out in winter conditions and on those off-road jaunts that you need so often. It's not something that you use all the time, but when you need it you really need it. (yes, you did mention 4-wheel drive in your first sentence. I missed it the first time).
Like how you have designed and improved the van, and your review is super. Not bad for your mileage, a website said your 2002 model uses 21.7 mpg UK - 13.0 L/100km. Remove the roof rack should give you better mileage, or see if wind deflector available making the rack more aero, and flush mount your solar panel on the van roof instead on the rack. For the heater, you can try placing a plumbing 90-degree elbow over the vent to redirect the hot air towards the van back and rises from where you sitting. There is still room between the battery and the van interior panel, you can expand the space to fit in a larger battery or push in from the other side or lower battery from the top ? Happy camping and shooting.
Squeaky left front brake might be the disk pad being lose. The squeaky is actually a high frequency vibration that can be damped. Not sure about this vehicle model but its likely to be a metal clip or an adhesive to secure the brake pad. (My two cents worth).
Hey Thomas, my wife and I watched your videos last year on build and have been looking to upgrade past our Ford Transit Connect to something where we can standup up. Just this week we pulled the trigger on a new Sprinter 144 cargo and plan to build it out as we go. We've meet friends, always have stories to tell and get to explore California, hoping that with the Sprinter we can take it to the next level. Love your channel and somehow your videos come out on point and inspire us all.
I had one a few years ago, mine was a long wheel base and Diesel . Very comfortable to drive , excellent off road and the diesel was reasonably economical. Now while the LWB is only 400 mm longer it does make a significant difference , I went on several camping trips and found it to be OK but only for a dew days, they are small. I do sometimes regret selling it , I loved driving it but be aware they are not big inside.
Great videos well presented. Blown away by the professional looking craftsmanship and designs 👍 I'm basically sold on the Delica because of the positives of a mini 4x4 van. Here in sunny Queensland Aus I'll be doing 95% of cooking / eating and dishes outside under the shady awning, using the interior only for sleeping and lounging while enjoying the tranquil solitude of mother nature 🙏🏼 🌴☀
If you remove the roof bars and awning you would considerably reduce your fuel consumption. I notice at time of video diesel was cheaper than now at £1.78. Every little helps 😉
Great vid and you have answered my question that as a numpty I asked you at Gary Gough’s “ has the van improved your photography?” What I meant to say is “ Has the van given you more opportunities?” and I think your answer is ‘Yes’ now as you can be on site for the right light and times and without having to travel backwards and forwards to accommodation. You inspired me to buy my own van and convert it, but My choice was a 6m Citroën Relay which is bigger and gives me all the functionality I need, Shower,toilet, cooking, double bed and importantly it’s Diesel and I get an average of 35MPH. It taken me to The Shetland Isles twice and the Outer Hebrides, fantastic islands for both Landscape, Wildlife and great Wild camping.
Great video thanks. I’m looking to buy a van to have converted for some retirement van life in Australia. Was looking at VW but as a happy Pajero owner have been looking at Delica and the fact that it is 4WD. They are not sold in Australia but many have been imported. Looking at the next model along. They are 10 years old with about 100k km on them. Your videos have help with my decision. Thank you
You can turn one of the rear windows at the back into a 15 to 20cm magazine holder type of storage area. I blanked out one myself and it is great for shoving stuff into.
Great job. I really enjoy your videos and love what you have done with the van. I have fitted out a Delica D:5 4WD for the purpose of getting away overnight for hiking and astrophotography etc. I definitely took some inspiration from what you have done (although you've done a much better job of it)
On my third delica now brilliant things personally I would say a diesel would suit you better and there is a long wheel base available just under half a mtr longer also is yours a high roof had to tell again about 3inch taller on the inside all helps
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Watching the build of this camper was,without doubt,the best build story I’ve seen.
Thomas, as for the heater outlet, just fix a 90 degree elbow to it that you can angle towards the back of the van or ceiling so the air isn’t pumping straight out the door.
I was thinking the same thing. I also noticed the vents in the head of the cabin, if could flip the heater 180 degrees, you could pipe in to the pre-existing vents.
@@Lindenism they say don't tap into you vehicles ducting due to the fact that these diesel heaters get much hotter than the vans heater. it can melt them. I would also worry about a 90 degree elbow right at the outlet of the heater the way this is set up. That may restrict airflow and over heat the unit.
@@bobbyswampfox Ok, make a small aluminium deflector.
Or roll down you front windows a crack rather than the side door
@@bobbyswampfox Yeh, all ducting should have the path of least resistance, so the use of 90 deg elbows should be restricted, so maybe a 45 deg bend and then another 45 deg bend, further down a bit. Difficult in a vehicle this small.
There's a fairly serious community of Delica lovers - we love these videos! Great fitout, great ideas, great videos. Thank you so much, Thomas!
My recommendation is that you get a van sponsor and petrol sponsor. 500,000 targeted customers (and growing) at a nominal cost. I predict this will be one of your most watched videos. In terms of the learning curve, yes experience brings wisdom. Thanks
Lol, imagine: A petrol sponsor 🤔 That would be better than a Bank sponsoring me. 😂
@@ThomasHeatonPhoto Yeah. It happens. Look at race drivers. But your followers are very targeted. Have to be a more internationally recognized name. I would recommend a Winnebago Revel, or something comparable. I can recommend a good lithium battery pack of at least 500 amp hours and the ventilation will be built in. 4 x 4 is essential, at least in my opinion. My van is some thing that I had to do a lot of modifications to as well, but after nearly 4 years, I would certainly go the route I’m recommending.
Thomas, thanks for an outstanding van build series. I’m in the planning stage for a part time camper van build, not a van lifer sort of guy. I’ve watched more videos than I can count and can say I’ll be using/stealing many of your ideas!!
You did a great job. I'd still like to see you add a roof vent. This might solve the door open when the heater is on problem. See ya next week. It's interesting to me that your channel is a great photography channel but your most popular video is the van build. You never know I guess.
Just crack a window and keep the door shut, not too good for security either leaving your door open!
Could you place a portable USB mini fan down by the heating vent to help push the warmth?
Roof fans and shrouds, along with accompanying closable and screened floor inlet are a must on all van builds. I run mine on a temp relay to kick on whenever the van get hot...which is often...Australia.
The interior upholstery looks new! And 20 years old. WOW!
And created one of the best landscape photography RUclips channel.
I remember being knocked out by your build videos. I had no idea building on custom aluminum frames at home was even a thing, and you did it so well. Great to see you're still going in what is still a fantastic build!
This van was a big inspiration to my own camper car conversion.
Love the JDM van build. Dream setup right here for photography adventures.
The tyre marks and footprints in the snow give the game away as to how much effort you're putting into filming your videos, great work.
You asked who was watching - me as a beginner to car camping who is interested in bird photography. I have a £4k Nissan X-trail and am about to kit it out for very little money just to enable me to get away for a few days at a time. Really enjoyed the video. Cheers!
A top of the range California is now about £85.000 new. I have a 10 year old California, excellent condition, but I still like to watch van builds etc. Thank you for posting.
If you have to open a door to run your diesel heater you have it installed wrong and need to move the exhaust or something. Use the pillow covers for your sleeping bag and some clothes to get extra space. Great build and don’t sweat the power supply you can get something close when it needs replaced. Have fun traveling and stay safe.
I converted my vw caddy to a small camper and took it all the way to the Noth Cape a few years ago. Excellent fast little stealth camper. Very cheap to buy and convert a tiny van.
Excellent! Someone might have already said this and you DID NOT ask for advice so take this with a grain of salt. Until you relocate your heater, I have seen several van dwellers place their diesel heater in a less accessible space and can’t the heat to where they want it with dryer vent hose. Those wide aluminium hoses that vent your dryer out of the house? They place the hose at the heater outlet and run the hose to the place(s) they want the hot air to blow out. The hose is often tucked behind a cabinet or down a wall but you don’t necessarily need to hide it. Just grab a leftover piece of vent hose, point it past the door and you will then benefit from more heat blowing into different parts of the van and the door will also stay in place more reliably. Just a suggestion as the season has turned but we still have at least one more cold snap before Easter. There is a RUclips channel for a couple, now retired, who travel in a little red camper and I think that is the name of the channel. You might watch a few of their videos for ideas that allow two people to stay in such a small place relatively comfortably.
Hi there, I’ve run Delicas as off-road camper vans for 12 years now and have found them the absolute dogs when it comes to getting further than other vans, I ran a swb for the first 6 years and then got the lwb which I still use, mine are both 2.8 turbo diesels, I’ve tweaked the boost pressure and upped the fuel flow and they have plenty of power, also i run one used cooking oil and bio diesel so very cheap to run. Would never sell mine there the best, I can send pics if your interested, keep up the fantastic work 👍
You built a very neat camper. 👏 excellent job 👏 👍 👌
I just bought an X Trail...no changes....job done...
You've helped inspire me to van and camera travel. Love the channel. Thanks
the fact that this vehicle is over 20 years old, turns me right on. a little re planning and I bet it goes another 20.
It was thanks to your van build series that I started watching your channel, and I've been watching ever since. I now have a DSLR camera and I'm slowly learning how to use. Thank you, keep up the great work 👍
Cool 👍. Right on
Thanks for this! A lot of my Delica build was inspired by yours and this video reminded me that I'm also almost at a year of ownership.
Size. Fuel economy. Diesel is good. 4 wheel drive very good. I saw the “off-road” video, not bad. I used a long wheel base Chevrolet one ton, v8 engine (terrible mileage), “Moby Van”, great white van! No bed! No insulation. Cold! Van was cheap, a work in progress. Oh, I’m retired. No income to speak of. I do like your van.
Good to see I am not the only Space Raider fan 😉. Enjoyed watching you build this van and think this year one review is great.
I watched this episode, because some viewers of SUVRVing were commenting about your build using aluminum instead of plywood and 2x4s. Now I am off to watch your original build episode.
Ive got the same Delica and get better fuel economy - I’d suggest getting rid of your roof rack and everything on it if you want to improve yours. Drag from even an empty roof rack will cause your fuel economy to go down noticeably. Also the weight of you build would be nothing compared to having stock seats and 5 passengers, stock springs would cope fine, if they were sagging it was just because they had gone weak . Returning it to stock height would also improve fuel economy.
I have a Mazda Bongo 4x4 2.5 diesel.
Regular 32 mpg
Added knobbly off road tyres 25 mpg 😱
They came straight off 🤣
I've been travelling and exploring 24/7 while living in my BMW X5 for the past 2-years. Love ❤️ it. 🙂
My son says "I wish you could drive when you're 8 years old!" (we have a Mitsubishi Delica too, and we're loving your videos!)
Also. I stuff my heavy sleeping bag inside a large pillow case and use it for the couch back support. Stuff yours inside that long pretty one. Then you have more cupboard space.
Hi Thomas, I used to own a long wheelbase version of your van. 1992 2.8 diesel version. I also did a similar camper van layout as you did. I used it for mountain biking trips. I could just about fit 2 people in (expanding width type bed) and due to the extra length could fit 2 mountain bikes in the tailgate area with the wheels off.
A note about front brakes: due to the fact that these vans have usually sat for months or years in japan, the front brakes can partially seize. I would always recommend replacing both calipers with new factor ones. Cost is quite low and if you're mechanically minded and have a friend to help push the brake pedal to bleed them, will only take a day to do both. Don't bother trying to repair old brake caliper pistons!
I've nearly finished my latest motorhome build based on an ex-Tesco Iveco delivery van. Keep an eye out, I'll be touring about the UK!
It reminds me of the space I had in my old 24ft yacht - good sitting room, easy to manouevre single handed, cosy when cold out, camping stove taken out from a locker, using a bucket for the loo etc. Last year I upgraded to a 28ft yacht and it's made a world of difference having standing headroom, an inbuilt engine, bigger cabin, its own heads. The small increase in length gave a lot more interior volume and the boat isn't too big to handle. It'd be good to see you get out on the water and take some seascapes, or views of the land from the water rather than vice versa.
I brought a non custom Transit a couple of months ago to convert from bear bones, not started it yet though have most of the materials and gear for the build including a heater. Thought I'd just use it as is for a while to decide what I want and where I want it before I start. Use of an inflatable bed has been ok and guess will continue to be for a few more weeks but wakening up by the side of a high-ish altitude Welsh lake in Snowdonia with 6 inches of frost on the inside last weekend wasn't my idea of a good time. A cup of coffee and two sausage sarnies later (post sunrise) all was good. I appreciate your yay's and nay's, it's given me a couple of points of reconsideration to the position of items. As I'll be building it as an 'off grid' camper I'll be installing a 12volt power invertor but plan on carrying a Jackery for back up. Solar panels is something else to think about.
To immediately increase your under seat storage get rid of those plastic boxes. I use stuff bags, labelled, and canvas bags that you can 'shove' in and mould to the area.
The heater issue is easily fixed, with an elbow joint, or if you're a tight wad like me, open a window instead and keep the door shut. Also, increases your security at night.
I have a Citroen Berlingo I converted as a full timer, in the UK, and I get 620 miles a tank on a long Motorway trip up North.
I have a suggestion for your clothes. You mentioned replacing pillows. Use pillow cases and store your cloths in them. Duo purpose and easy to get too.
I'm in love with the delica look! I've previously dreamed of doing vanlife, but gave up.
I really want to get a delica and build it as a camper to go on adventures. Who knows, vanlife may happen down the road.
Those Delicas look nice and your honest review is refreshing. But they are small for storage. Being able to stand in a van (high roof) is the most valuable asset IMHO. Who would watch your video? Another landscape photographer with a high roof DIY Sprinter conversion.
I think the van is brilliant, absolutely love Delicas and think you’ve done a great job with the conversion👍
Don't second guess yourself too much. That's an awesome van.
Being able to be comfortable, warm and dry is a huge thing when out and about in the wilds- that’s a huge huge plus! You did a fantastic job with the build.
If you put a small bit off tubing a right angle you could direct the flow from your diesel heater so it would put the heat out the other direction possibly
I’m a California ocean owner and photographer and love my van.
Same here, couldn‘t agree more
You could use a hashing net above the passenger seat or toward the back.
Pockets hung off doors or a panels
Roof wind deflector, may save some fuel
Ref: Cushions, empty the filling out & put other things you use inside, obviously things that are fabric, clothes jackets then the cushion covers are fuel purpose 😉🇬🇧
Great little video mate, well done✌🏻🍺
Great to see a year on review. I'm about to make all the same mistakes but happy to do so! Driving one of these things is worth more than the extortionate price of petrol! Take care.
I take it the front brakes are disc, when you next have a little spare time have a look and see if the anti squeal shims are on the back of the pads and a bit of high temp copper grease the shims and grease work wonders
I'm 76 and I've had nothing but vans my entire life. I'm also a landscape photographer and I agree that a van is the essential landscape photography accessory. Unless you can find a pre 07 Sprinter, stay away. My 04 has been flawless for 170K miles, but the new ones? Not so much. Far too complex and expensive. If I were starting afresh, it'd be a gasoline powered Ford Transit. I nearly got a Delica myself, but for me, it's too small. My 04 Sprinter regularly delivers 30 mpg and is an absolute delight to drive. Like your Delica, it's as agile as a goat. For those early mornings or rainy days, the extra floorspace and stand up headroom have proven themselves over and over. My single occupant build is as simple as possible and I've spent as much as 5 weeks footloose in western North America and never wanted more. I carry 100l of freshwater. Love all your camera mounts. And your shows, for that matter. : ) Keep 'em coming. Especially the drone work.
I found your insights very valuable. My wife and I are making plans to start full time RV living. Whilst we will be pulling a trailer, your tips about camera mounts, gear storage, and more are invaluable. Internet connectivity will be a big issue for us as our trailer will be our home base and must have high speed Internet for video uploading.
Excellent pointers in this video. Thank you!
Excellent view..one of your best...compressed and on topic..thanks
I have a diesel heater in exactly same position, with a 45 degree diverter. I have wind deflectors on both driver/passenger windows and have driver’s window open an inch at night. Stops rain coming in and allows for fresh air too. Heater inlet is under drivers seat so ideal. HTH.
So much goes into your stellar production, and yet it is so seamlessly put together that one tends to forget that behind your beautiful talent there's also a lot of work for us! Cheers, Thom
By far the nicest van conversion I've seen. I think that came from your attitude that the van was to be a tool to enable you to get out and do what you love doing - landscape photography, rather than thinking of creating a home on wheels. By deciding what was essential for you, you managed to keep it simple and very functional, you knew how you wanted it to work. Minimalist in the best way. And a very clean, slightly industrial aesthetic to it, too, but with some warm, rich colours to prevent starkness. Simple sophistication! You've clearly got a designer's brain. In one of your videos you said you wanted everything to be ready to use - none of the moving this and adjusting that to get a working bed etc. So many vans are too 'clever' to be properly usable. Yours seems to hit the sweet spot between mattress on the van floor and 1930s bungalow with velor sofa and knick knacks on wheels! Few seem to manage that.
Regarding size, for years I drove an old VW Type 2 bus conversion. I used it for 2 to 3 week camping trips. It was probably about the same size as yours but what made it liveable was a pop up roof. Pop the roof when camped and you could stand up.
Maybe you could look into fitting a pop up roof? The one I had went up sideways and then pushed out the other side. Gave you some "bunks" up top aka, place to store stuff when parked up.
I have a L400 too however its a different set up with cooker/fridge/sink at the back and its a 2.8 diesel. Kayak permanently on the roof with a slim top box. On fuel costs remove weight. I notice you have a tow bar. That is a dead weight and an encumbrance off road as too are those motorised side steps. Also get free wheeling front hubs so your not moving dead transmission weight when not in 4WD.
Currently building a micro-camper with my 3rd gen Tacoma (Hilux) and I can't wait to get out and explore
thanks you were my inspiration to get a van, never looked back thanks....
You need to try and run some ducting from heater intake towards the rear of the van, need to create circulation
Looks great, very jealous. I use a Volvo XC90...no conversions but very nice to be able to stealthily sleep in the back with a small foam mattress at photo locations.
You should run a DC/DC charger from vehicle battery to your big Power Bank.
That will keep it topped up whenever you run the van
Given you're not a professional at retrofitting vehicles, I thought at the time you did an amazing job on the Delica and I'm still of that opinion. The mileage? Well, you added hundreds of pounds of weight to the thing so something had to give, I guess. My only concern is its balance. As you said, its wheelbase is narrow. That might make it a bit top-heavy and I wonder how steady it feels when you drive off-road. Fascinating video overall though. I'm not mechanical at all and I can't imagine undertaking this job myself.
These vans handle amazingly, even with a roof load. Can go anywhere most standard use 4x4s can. It's a Pajero/Triton with a van body. Very capable vehicles on sand, mud and literally designed for snow and ice (most common use is ski resort transfers, hence the 8 original adult sized seating.
You need to build you a 90° extension for your heater vent. You can use something simple like PVC. That way, you can redirect the heat backward and not just be aimed at the door. All you need to do is heat up a 90° PVC connector of the same diameter, and then the PVC can easily be molded to fit it inside the existing vent hole.
I imported a 95 delica to convert into a weekend camper bc of you. Thanks for the inspiration and great videos to watch.
Watching you do the original build inspired me to do the same with a VW Crafter. It is now my Mobile Photography Unit (MPU) 😂👍🏼
You can buy cruise control kits for this model. Very easy to install.
I have a 98 gasser and a 2001 diesel. Definitely use the diesel for my filming and scouting. Way better bang for my buck. I love what you did to your Delica.
Just added Faff to my dictionary.
Thanks for the long term review
Had a 2002 delica myself briefly I bought it knowing it needed rust repairs but it was too far gone for me to undertake on my drive. Can I suggest getting some good rust protection to the chassis box sections on yours. Few common problem arias front chassis legs sills rear chassis infront of axle. This is a double section which is difficult to access but can corrode badly before it becomes visible. Great build you've done. I wanted mine for my 4x4 hobby and mountain biking weekends away. Currently building a nissan Patrol but with roof tent
Love the van build, guess what......and now I watch the photography vids, inspirational, well done
I recently read that in the some states in the USA (Maine is one) have started to de-register these vehicles, which I think is unfortunate. I concur that having a camper van is the best thing as a photographer. I bought a Ram Promaster and had it converted, just returned from my first long trip in it. Brilliant! It's not as capable as the 4x4 Delica, being only front wheel drive, but when I was out aurora hunting the other evening it was great to be able to be out and then come back in to warm up. I love the care & attention that Tom took to create his van - the year review is a testament to the craftsmanship. Well done, sir!!! And yes, your home, the UK, is splendid. Look forward to a return visit when the world is sane again....right?!
You can fit a echtree battery in there, you can add ducting to heater lol could have a lift up seat top.
Still looks good mate. My diesel Deli only manages 18mpg so I wish I had the petrol engine as it must be so much nicer to drive. Good to see you lifted it. You should really fit upper ball joint spacers when you do that. I had 2 sets machined when I lifted mine so have a spare set if you need them. They come with proper angled top plates as well to stop the stress on the bolts being at the incorrect angle. Your suspension will be topped out with little or no room for rebound and also your camber will probably be way off as well.
Yes, 2.8 litre seems a bit of overkill and it will absolutely drink fuel. Methinks these were designed for towing which maybe explains why so many have towbars. I'd get one of thee because I love the 4x4 overland style but after a few months and the novelty wears off I'd be asking myself why i need a 2.8 litre?
I really like your Delica and the conversion you made. I also have a Delica :)
There are several options for cruise control for cars that use a mechanically operated throttle.
1. The best option, I think. Rostra 250-1223 universal cruise control and Rostra 250-3743 Universal Column Mount Cruise Control. No Vacuum Required
2. Waeco MS50 with Vacuum.
They make batteries for the same size in our Pyxis Anesthesia Carts. The squeaky brake is probably the rotors or calipers.
Not to mention since you have that jackery power supply you could also hook that up to your solar power and charge it that way and even though it is a cloudy day you'll still have more than enough to charge that battery up or to supplements battery power
Hi Thomas,
You had inspired me towards a Delica. But being 6'3" and aiming at slippery, icey, roads and camping not off road I thought I'd aim for a long Wheelbase high roof... Now watching your 1year...and you finding lack of room... Soo glad that I did...
Thanks heaps
Going to take my sweet time doing any build though.... Minimal to start with.
Indeed, you did a good job on the van. As you said, there are compromises due size, but I think you have the good end of the stick there Mr H. Happy camping!!
That was and is still one of the best small camper builds I've seen.
One word of advice, if thats petrol which is the 3.0 I believe, please make sure to have the timing belt replace if you haven't done so!! It would be a shame if that snaos at some point on a long drive. If you have the 2.8 diesel then keep driving as those are timing chains.
Be safe 🙏
Getting my own photo van and doing landscape (mainly of populated areas) photography is a dream of mine. I'm currently making the best use of the train, but even if I get on the first one of the day I still miss my favorite time to be out in (and not) nature - before the sunrise. And in areas with no public transport hiking for hours to get up to a good vantage point with all your geat is real hard work!
Loved the initial build and now the one year review. Excellent thought process and craftsmanship.
Very timely Thomas - my wife and I are just in the process of building out our Nissan e-nv200 inspired by your build (aluminium profile features heavily!). Thanks so much for the inspiration, we're taking it skiing this weekend as we are based in Norway :)
I'd say that is a great public service video! Great idea. You need a van selfie! Sit or stand on top of it with a tripod like the F4 Roadtrip shot. Seems like something you might want to have ten years from now.
Great job with the van and the van video, Thomas. I might have missed it but I don't recall your mentioning one of the most positive attributes of your van: 4-wheel drive when you need it. This is what gives you the confidence to go out in winter conditions and on those off-road jaunts that you need so often. It's not something that you use all the time, but when you need it you really need it.
(yes, you did mention 4-wheel drive in your first sentence. I missed it the first time).
Like how you have designed and improved the van, and your review is super. Not bad for your mileage, a website said your 2002 model uses 21.7 mpg UK - 13.0 L/100km. Remove the roof rack should give you better mileage, or see if wind deflector available making the rack more aero, and flush mount your solar panel on the van roof instead on the rack. For the heater, you can try placing a plumbing 90-degree elbow over the vent to redirect the hot air towards the van back and rises from where you sitting. There is still room between the battery and the van interior panel, you can expand the space to fit in a larger battery or push in from the other side or lower battery from the top ? Happy camping and shooting.
Squeaky left front brake might be the disk pad being lose. The squeaky is actually a high frequency vibration that can be damped. Not sure about this vehicle model but its likely to be a metal clip or an adhesive to secure the brake pad. (My two cents worth).
Hey Thomas, my wife and I watched your videos last year on build and have been looking to upgrade past our Ford Transit Connect to something where we can standup up. Just this week we pulled the trigger on a new Sprinter 144 cargo and plan to build it out as we go. We've meet friends, always have stories to tell and get to explore California, hoping that with the Sprinter we can take it to the next level. Love your channel and somehow your videos come out on point and inspire us all.
thanks for this good energy
I had one a few years ago, mine was a long wheel base and Diesel . Very comfortable to drive , excellent off road and the diesel was reasonably economical. Now while the LWB is only 400 mm longer it does make a significant difference , I went on several camping trips and found it to be OK but only for a dew days, they are small. I do sometimes regret selling it , I loved driving it but be aware they are not big inside.
Yeah the Deli is a van to live out of, not so much in.
I would love to see a RUclipsr that will do Overlanding and landscape photography. So far no one has done the combo.
Great videos well presented. Blown away by the professional looking craftsmanship and designs 👍 I'm basically sold on the Delica because of the positives of a mini 4x4 van. Here in sunny Queensland Aus I'll be doing 95% of cooking / eating and dishes outside under the shady awning, using the interior only for sleeping and lounging while enjoying the tranquil solitude of mother nature 🙏🏼 🌴☀
If you remove the roof bars and awning you would considerably reduce your fuel consumption. I notice at time of video diesel was cheaper than now at £1.78. Every little helps 😉
You could store clothes in the cushions! Take out the pillow inside and fill the pillowcase with puffy jackets and other clothes.
Great vid and you have answered my question that as a numpty I asked you at Gary Gough’s “ has the van improved your photography?” What I meant to say is “ Has the van given you more opportunities?” and I think your answer is ‘Yes’ now as you can be on site for the right light and times and without having to travel backwards and forwards to accommodation.
You inspired me to buy my own van and convert it, but My choice was a 6m Citroën Relay which is bigger and gives me all the functionality I need, Shower,toilet, cooking, double bed and importantly it’s Diesel and I get an average of 35MPH. It taken me to The Shetland Isles twice and the Outer Hebrides, fantastic islands for both Landscape, Wildlife and great Wild camping.
Great video thanks. I’m looking to buy a van to have converted for some retirement van life in Australia. Was looking at VW but as a happy Pajero owner have been looking at Delica and the fact that it is 4WD. They are not sold in Australia but many have been imported. Looking at the next model along. They are 10 years old with about 100k km on them. Your videos have help with my decision. Thank you
Nice followup video, entertaining!
You need those small ceramic low wattage heaters, they're excellent.
You can turn one of the rear windows at the back into a 15 to 20cm magazine holder type of storage area. I blanked out one myself and it is great for shoving stuff into.
Amazing buildout
Great job. I really enjoy your videos and love what you have done with the van.
I have fitted out a Delica D:5 4WD for the purpose of getting away overnight for hiking and astrophotography etc. I definitely took some inspiration from what you have done (although you've done a much better job of it)
On my third delica now brilliant things personally I would say a diesel would suit you better and there is a long wheel base available just under half a mtr longer also is yours a high roof had to tell again about 3inch taller on the inside all helps
I have a small van. I put many of my clothes inside pillowcases and use them for pillows.