Stealth Apartment + Toy Hauler in a Box Truck? DETAILED TOUR!
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- Опубликовано: 16 май 2024
- This is a full detailed tour of my stealth modern farmhouse tiny home toy hauler. A great floorplan for anyone wanting additional mobility while maintaining full functionality of a tiny home.
Toward the end of 2022 I was approached by a subscriber of my channel with a request to build him a stealth tiny home toy hauler in his Uhaul box truck. I took all of his requirements and put the Techno Barbarian touch on a buildout of this 17' box truck. Total build time was roughly 9 months.
This van tour is for the builders, the engineers , DIY'ers and the problem solvers- not for a "viral tour" video. I include my philosophy and design decisions throughout.
Follow my builds, ask questions, get early vid access, join a builder community technobarbarian.locals.com/
Instagram
/ thetechnobarbarian
Contact
thetechnobarbarian@gmail.com
Products Used
3-in-1 Microwave Oven Air Fryer amzn.to/45vhw3R
Air Conditioner amzn.to/3Fh7IzL
24v Inverter-Charger amzn.to/3ZTi1DI
BMS amzn.to/3PPhsWW
Water heater amzn.to/3FfVpUp
Diesel Heater amzn.to/3LWnC6z
Heated Floor Element amzn.to/45rK0vn
Heated Floor Thermostat amzn.to/3rT8NLd
Fresh and Grey Tanks amzn.to/46qFWNt
Black Tank amzn.to/3twql03
Toilet amzn.to/3Qg8Km5
Water Pump amzn.to/3ttO0OF
Shower Door amzn.to/3tufGTE
Washer/Dryer amzn.to/48U36xi
Timestamps
00:00-00:55 Intro/Sneak Peek
00:56-2:55 Build Requirements/Explanation
2:56-3:55 Passthrough & Heated Flooring
3:56-10:46 Kitchen
10:47-11:30 Roof Vent & Skylight
11:31-15:13 Bedroom & Closet
15:14-18:08 Climate Control & Electrical
18:09-20:11 Lighting & Ceiling
20:12-23:11 Bathroom
23:12-26:27 Second Bed & Living Room
26:28-27:54 Toy Hauling
27:55-33:01 Patio, Ramp & Outdoor Walkaround
33:01-33:50 Outro
#vanlife #conversion #vantour
A few details not included because I didn't want to make a 45 minute video:
1. Bed is used with a folding hideaway step stool - I jumped on it to show sturdiness and construction quality
2. Weight of the truck is 8000lb empty with 14,000 GVWR. This build is under 12,000 with fresh water in the tank.
3. Fresh fill inlet is hidden inside passenger door
4. The answer to every "Why didn't you X" is either A) Budget or B) Didn't match clients design
what's 10 more mins! we wanna see everything lol this is cool
@@iLoveMiniThingz I could do an hour but the algorithm wouldnt show it to anyone
I saw a Van lifer add a electric car charger hub to charge the batteries. Do you offer that also? Just wondering and planting a seed...😎👍
I’m such a girly girl, but this is “Glamping” for me and I love it!
I would put a kill switch in the back in case you are in back and somebody tries to drive off with the truck.
I have a friend who’s single & he bought one of the biggest U Haul box trucks at a auction . He saved up every penny he could for 3 years . He put a knew everything in it seriously , I mean everything engine , transmission everything then started out tricking out the inside , solar panels, solar banks bed , tv , DISH anywhere , on line gaming console , fridge, heaters , A. C. . & this thing is cool as hell for the money he put into it , he’s lived out of the thing since 2017 , & just recently visited my property & asked if he could stay awhile & I told him stay as long as you want , I own 10 acres so it’s really not going to bother me .
I bet that uhaul is a hell of an upgrade with all that work done to it. i love stories like that.
Sounds like a helluva deal. If I’m reading this correctly, then again, I may not be. But if I am, I’m reading it as your friend has been on your property since 2017????
Whoa! Does he have a channel showing his place? Would love to see it! You’re a great friend for letting him stay!
@@garlandremingtoniii1338yes except I think the 2017 part ... that's when friend moved into vehicle and then "just recently" he moved onto his property. That's my understanding.
What are friends for if you don’t want them around when you have 10 acres of land? All my friends are real friends that have the same attitude as I do and with that much land it’s not like you are going to be lacking in the privacy side of things. I’m retired and I would be on the road travelling quite a bit anyway so for me this looks like something that could really work for me. Each to their own but I’m someone who doesn’t need a lot of space and I’ve always wanted to tour around checking out different places and this might just be my ticket to do it.
An idea I've had, yet to see done, is use a flat-screen framed in like a window on the inside and have it connected to an exterior camera, for a stealth window 😉
or like one van lifer did, tiny security camera on each side. Those 4 cams give you 360 view w/o having to step outside. THAT should be on EVERY single van or box build. Safety first...
That's a great idea, I may have to use it lol. I'm working on something like this myself
@@jefffather4663I agree. Especially these days
@@frankierzucekjr post up a video if you do so please 😉
@@jefffather4663 : Even better, have them accessible in the cab while running for fine maneuvering to get in & out of tight confines.
This ought to increase the demand for used U-Haul vans by about 1000%. I've never seen better even in those in larger vehicles with less "pizzaz". Fantastic job. Good salesman also.
Knowing the final cost would be very nice even if it is ball-park and not exact.
Maximum and minimum brackets, yes.
Quite impressive! Only one obvious critique: The valve for the blackwater tank is vulnerable to the tires in the event of a blowout. A single steel plate that is securely fastened to the frame/body to act as a wheel well and protective barrier. I've worked on several motor home chassis that due to a simple rear tire blowout lost electrical/plumbing and even one that lost everything in an interior storage cabinet. Aluminum won't hold up, it has to be steel plate that is secured.
Ooh great tip. Thank you for sharing this . I will definitely remember to tell my builder this. God bless u for sharing this very important information.
Also, at 8:33, you can see the winch cable rubbing on the raw particle board of the cupboard...
@@JustanotherLizalso steel screens to cover your exhaust for the furnace etc due to flies ans rodents
There are factory built RV's that have the same problem with the black pipe in general. The brother was driving one when a rear tire blew out and it too took out the black pipe under the toilet along with the tank itself. The following week Myself and the other brother did a quick patch up just using black pipe from the toilet to the drain. Since the drain was on the other side from the toilet we estimated that the pipe probably held 12 to 15 gallons of waste. Problem was though that TP and the $h1# easily plugged it up so it was used primary for liquid use til we got another tank.
@@incemomnia1374I feel like a lot of people do their own builds and then feel like they're qualified to do it for other people, but there are a lot of details the average person that's not an electrician or a plumber or have any experience installing solar panels, etc. We did our own build, but we would never feel qualified enough to have people pay us to do one for them. Over the last 3 years we've have to upgrade and change certain things because we learned the way we did wasn't right and was even dangerous. I would never hire someone to do a build for us unless they have a lot of experience.
My favorite part is the superiority. My girl was like “that’s off putting” but I mean, he has built a superior product. Earned every bit of those bragging rights. I love it.
She secretly loved it
@@TheTechnoBarbarian yeah she's dirty like that, lol
I would call it superiority...I would say is pompous assery... only built one,uno (1) unit...probably for relative...but put down others?? Ok...
i'm a person that would never want to do this lifestyle..itswhy I enjoy watching the ingenuity of others
I agree with your girl. Check out my comment.
Yep. I know stuff about all kinds of things and I’ve build a variety of things that the vast majority of people won’t ever get into. So, yeah I’ve been accused of arrogance by people who can’t tell the difference between arrogance and confidence. I know what I know and so do you; sucks to be them.
My current project; convert a tritoon pontoon boat to camp, cruise and fish the Canadian Great Lakes and the various canal systems. No stealth involved but I love your ingenuity, and attention to detail, and I am plagiarizing some of your ideas. THANKS!!
My only input to an amazing stealth build would be to add a trim around the roof edge level to take away any sight of the solar panels. Something approx 75ml trim would disguise and take away anybody’s interest of recognising the solar panels on the roof. All in all, a great stealth U Haul and a very usable, mobile mini home.
Bravo 👌🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
My thoughts too, but with drainage holes so doesn't turn into a mini pool up top ..
This is without a doubt, the only way to go!! I’ve been thinking about doing a VAN-TRUCK / BOX-TRUCK AND NOW I AM SOLD! SOLD!! SOLD!!! This is the only way I will do mine now the same way this guy did this one. I will do a carbon copy of this because this is without a doubt, PERFECTION!!!
Wow! It just looks like a regular old work truck! Design, design, design!
No unsightly cables hanging from tv
Winch system with tire chalk .
Hidden AC evaporative coil.
Original U-Haul ramp used as a support for the deck .
Center mount clothes hanger
Clean electrical and battery compartment. To name a few.
Very thoughtful and well planned design. This is why you’re going to do well with your business. Professional good work doesn’t cost, it pays! The guy who bought this unit is going to very happy. It’s really livable because of the functionality, fit and features. Nice job!
My husband & I want to convert a van but this is making me rethink the van and going with a box truck! It’s beautiful
Box truck:
* greater GVWR
* square straight walls and ceiling
* standing inside, walking around inside
* easily convert, on the road in days!
.
Van:
* curves everyplace
* custom everything
* months of frustration during conversion
* "This one time, at van-camp..."
i did a 14' Uhaul, it was a very nice comfortable home until it was stolen from me 😥
@@tomcatt998 Wow! that sucks. Sorry about that bad luck. I would definitely be looking for it wherever I go. I hope you had full coverage to cover SOME of the cost.
@@tomcatt998 Next build, wire in a very stealth GPS monitoring unit that reports location, maybe even 2 of them. Build gets stolen? Pull out your phone, see its location, and call the cops.
Gas mileage and the wind may change your mind.
Man, this is making me want to live in a box truck
Me too
Same!
This looks really nice new, I'm curious to see what it would look like after somebody's been living in it for about a couple years
Go no you don’t. But go ahead.
@@Wesmancanwhy not? I do, and I’ve never been happier. Properly done it’s a wonderful way to live.
One thing with a lot of these builds I always wonder about is how much thought people give to overall weight and weight distribution. It looks like you’ve actually taken that into account here with the materials choices and where things are located. Noobs just seem to start throwing whatever they can find in the build. If I ever decided to go with mobile living I would definitely have you build mine.
I was thinking the same thing as well, but the size of that uhaul should compensate for any uneven payload ive seen people stuff pianos on one side, and lamps in the other and went cross country
Yeah, the more weight, the more mpg. This will definitely need alot of gas unless it's an electric Uhaul. Other than that, it's a great project, but probably not for everyone like the bed design over the drawers.
@@Loudes012 Drawers are usually thrown towards the floor
It is a uhaul after all. These things have been overloaded since they opened lol. I don't think you can build anything in here that would make this too heavy tbh
Wow, did not consider that, top tip, if I do build one will take that into account.
I love this guy's style. Clearly ex mulitary, and does not beat around the bush. A refreshing change from you tubers who think they have to act like they're on the Home Shopping Network.
I don’t even think he said 'super' once.
Very easy on my Australian ears.
Awesome fitout too. Very impressive.
Great work! One of the best builds ever! Personally, I love the safety that a stealth vehicle provides, as well as the ability to park anywhere.
Let me warn you that "stealth" builds are a double edged sword. The more it looks like a normal work van/trailer the more youre going to get targeter by thieves thinking theres expensive tools inside. The closer it looks to an RV/Camper the less you'll deal with that as theives dont want to break into something that people might be actively living inside. Your location will be the big deciding factor. In a place like Cali for example the hippy/van life is so common that noone thinks its wierd or will bother you, while in some other states you may get chased around or ran off like a bum. So yeah, pros and cons.
And generally speaking theres certain things that will always give you away no matter how stealthy you think you are. Like foggy condensed windows in the winter, solar panels, roof fans and reflectix covers in the windows. Most stealthers arent even as stealthy as they think.
And perhaps most importantly, people are less creeped out by an overt camper conversion than they are about some random person parked in a van that they know is trying to be sneaky.😂 Thats the kind of thing that will get the police called.
I agree absolutely
@@ITech2005 True. That's what nice about parking near Home Despots, and SLOwes, and other home improvement stores that rent trucks... looks like just another rental parked empty on the lot.
@@ITech2005I wonder if lone females are better off going stealth and lone males better off obvious? Thanks for the thoughts.
@@hexane8 Stealth attracts the methheads looking to break in and steal tools since it looks too much like a normal work van. These are universally targeted and if you do some research youll see that these are some of the most broken into vehicles atm.
In my experience here in Cali non stealth seems to be better for both genders. Thieves will avoid a vehicle if they think someones living in it. I had a 2007 GMC Savana that was stolen when i first got it because it looked like a normal comcast vehicle. When i made it look like an overt camper i stopped having this issue. I also built my own custom security system with separate electromagnetic deadlocks, shatterproof glass security film and exterior motion detection cameras. Its also setup to mimic someone being in the vehicle when im away. So when the cameras detect someone getting too close it will automatically turn on a loud radio inside and turn on exterior floodlights. Most of this is done with Yolink devices and Blink cameras.
In future builds, you should add a compressor to the spray port area, as then you can spray air to dust off the equipment, or air up tires as needed, eliminating the need for water in desert situations.
Just a minor improvement for those that like to go to less wet areas, also keeps the interior moisture levels down.
A small plug-in leaf blower would work just fine😊
As an appreciator of toy hauling,
I am very impressed.
Thanks for the tour
I took a shot every time “ STEALTH” was mentioned.
I like the way you built the box out. You did a great job showing your work. Don't take this the wrong way I would suggest not to put down the way others build out their rigs. A lot of these nomads have never done this before. I have a factory built toy hauler and I love it. Thank you for sharing your work and please try not to downgrade others. Everyone has a budget and needs. Thank you
Exactly👍 - I found his manner of “everyone else does it wrong, except me” style VERY off putting
I agree w u whole heartedly never put another’s way down
Agreed. Very arrogant & I caught that within the 1st 2 minutes of the video. Not a good look.
Same! Had to skip forward not to cringe too hard
He did come off as being very arrogant. Takes away from an otherwise nice build.
I've seen a couple box van builds with vent grilles masking a slide open window. The grilles were turned upside down to maximize daylight and privacy. Curtain added for prevention interior light leakage
I've seen that build too & you're right it's perfect
Fantastic! My only suggestion is to have the ramp powered up to level so the bike can be walked in. I imagine the bike falling over during winching. Either that or a rolling stabilizer that attaches quickly and easily to the bike.
Small cameras on the roof for 360 day/night vision for situational awareness would be good too.
Best build I’ve ever seen.
The confidence and matter of factness with which you deliver your "box life, not van life, no compromises, residential as possible" ethos is something that I really haven't seen in this space on RUclips. I guess when you know your work is good shit, you can brag a little.
He’s a conceited pompous ass
I think he overdoes it a bit. It gets annoying. It makes sense to point out a lot of the features that are different from “van life” but it’s the attitude that was tiresome for me.
Beautiful build and well thought out out!! Only thing I would change, or actually add, is some kind of protection for the dump valve being so close to the tire. One blowout, of the tire or tires throw something up between the duals and it would be big mess. Maybe just a diamond plate shelf to enclose the valve? Really nice overall though and extremely well thought out!!!
Good point. We had this happen when pulling a camper and the plumbing was unusable.
Yup ether some diamond plate or a thick rubber mud flap between that tire and the dump valve, hell I'd argue make that wheel fully enclosed above the side skirts.
I know a guy who bought an RV with a busted dump valve, and a full, dried out black tank, was not fun.
Where is the 'stinky slinky' stored? did I miss it? I will watch again.
It is an amazing build - I want one!
Client must be a dirtbiker; street bikes can easily be 500 - 900 lbs and probably wider.
Very professional and top quality build.
I only have two gripes.
1. The solar panel wiring could all be neat and running together.
2. The 5 foot jump up and down to get in and out of bed
Also lose the vs van life issues he obviously has.
One of the things I do love about van life, albeit I live on a boat, is the personality these people put into the van. It is all well & good being stealth but the copy cutter approach definitely needs some personality in it. I get that it is a client build but I totally could see a farm accent like the client specified being absolutely perfect for it. Maybe a putting green on the veranda. I agree a step up to the bed would be needed after a long day riding a bike. It’s always the small things that make a difference.
I will say it is a good build for sure.
A wench for the Harley but no steps for the rider 😮😮😮
Also once you add a mattress not much room to, well anything. Kitchen does seem functional.
How do you stand under the shower with the toilet in the way?
There will always be small things you will want to personalize,
3. Install protective cover to bottom of water and waste containers in case a rock is kicked up and creates a hole
4. Have the glass door at rear open each way so you can grill on the deck and enter the truck without hitting your head on the TV or need to remove the bike.
Great build! The one thing I would change would be the sliding door should have the mini-blinds between the glass. I just installed one on our fishing cottage and we love the fact that you can close the blinds for privacy or raise them all the way for a complete view. Other than that, it is dang near perfect! Thanks for sharing.
Question for you - are there any precautions or features built-in that guard against 'riggors of the road'? I've seen plenty of people with van and truck builds, and what they often _don't_ show you...but what some have talked about, is all the natural bumps and vibrations of driving will eventually cause cabinetry and other built-in features to either become cracked or to come loose. And has there also been any road testing to indicate how these built-in features would hold up if, say, you hit a couple of large potholes?
Don’t put glass jars in that fridge if you’re on the move. RV fridges aren’t only compact for saving space, they also are designed to use less energy and are engineered to withstand travel. This means better containment solutions for keeping things from bouncing around when driving and a compressor system built to handle travel.
Just get baskets/plastic totes to separate and organize. Easy fix!
We have been full time for 7 years and have a residential refrigerator. We Casey anything we want we just utilize containers in the refrigerator to store these items in.
@@starrturner426What does it mean to “Casey”?
@@synnove1046 is that like a Dirty Sanchez?
Very nice. One thing I would want is cameras stealth mounted into the corners to give 360 view from inside since you have no visibility. I guess this could be easily added. I would also want voice control of the lights. Add a Starlink satellite to the top of this baby and you have quite the off grid solution.
I was just going to say cameras .. because of I'm parked someplace at night and I hear noise out side I would like to be able to see what is going on.
one of the best tiny home on wheel i ever seen
Wow, your designs are Very impressive! Fantastic job! As a woman, I'd have no problem living in this home!! It's perfect!! 🌸
Isn’t it fantastic inside?!😃✨☺️🤗
Wow... Really blown away in how you were able to incorporate a toy hauler floorplan and execute it so nicely. What a gift to have those kinds of problem solving skills combined with actually being able to physically put it together. From an a first-time UHaul conversion builder with much less skill, BRA-freaking-VO. Truly incredible work, my friend.
This is a very well thought out build. You did a really nice job. For me, I’d paint the cabinets or walls a different color only because I’m not a fan of all white, but that’s what’s good about building a rig, you can do what you want.
I like that you used a black tank. I’ve seen people install a separate recirculating water tank with an on demand water heater so they can take endless hot showers. You just need to install a couple filters to keep the water clean. The heated floors are great, as is the full wet bath. You have plenty of solar/batteries! The only thing I’d add/change is installing a PVC tube under the chassis, if possible, to hold the sewer hose. That or install a 4” square tube bumper.
** The last, and most important addition I’d make is to install 90 elbow on your dump drain so it points to the side of the rig, and install a metal panel between the tire and that 90 elbow. I had a tire blow on the freeway and the steel belt tore out a large hole in my black tank. Those steel belts spinning at 55-60mph can do a lot of damage to everything in its path. I know it might be a hassle to install, but if you don’t do it, you should advise your client to have it done. The sooner the better, unless he plans to replace the tires soon as they looked pretty well worn.
A truck like that "stealth parked" is a magnet for police in many parking areas. It is either an illegal living arrangrment in most places or a vehicle that woild be handy for robbery.
I lived in a conversion van for to three years. An experience I will never forget...especially the car with two bodies parked near me one morning. The car was all smashed and ripped open. I got an out of there fast!
Half of the battle of stealth living is knowing where to park where you're not going to get dicked with. Backs of strip malls, vacant buildings, industrial parking lots, side streets in industrial areas, shopping malls, gas stations, streets adjacent to storage facilities. I used to drive a semi-tractor trailer (379 Peterbilt with 53' reefer trailer that made lots of noise). You can park onto on-ramps with shoulders, and pee on the side of the road, or change your fuel filter. Adult movie theaters on the Interstate always have lots of parking, Casinos have more parking than you will ever need, rest areas... Miami used to have two main truck stops where I delivered in town, other than that, I had to invent my own parking. As a truck driver, I never parked in the truck stops because I didn't my truck getting backed into by a tired driver who can't see in the dark. Farmers markets on the week days never have any trucks or customers, construction sites usually have trailers parked around fenced off areas. Places you want to avoid are WalMart, any cop that comes to investigate your vehicle has been called by the property owner, or manager. This usually happens in places that have signs that say, "No Truck Parking," or "No Overnight Parking." These signs are there because too many people have dumped their trash there in the past, and/or semi trucks have created potholes large enough to swallow a car from making hard turns in the parking lot.
Stealth always comes on top of my mind what is inside that box even if I don't have mindset of a police. I am more comfortable painting 24 hour Plumbing Service to erase every one's curiosity.
Bodies, as in dead people?
@@isolo52 He prob parked near morgue or smth
I’ve tried to make every second of every day be accountable, I’m an entrepreneur that runs a company selling salves for Goat Udders that live in cold wet environments. Money is
Time and you my friend solved my issue. A #2 while
Showering will save me 12 minutes a day and with all the suffering goats in the world I can bank a few bands more an hours with this cheat code.
You, are the man!
You did well!👍
I’ll give you my #1 stealth box truck tip that I use on my own stealth truck. Take an old aluminum extension ladder and cut all the steps out so you just have the left and right runners. Then mount the runners on top of the truck along the right and left edge of the roof. You get three uses out of these. First they make a great frame to mount your solar panels. Second they hide all the roof mounted stuff like panels, vents etc. But most important, they make the truck look like a construction truck. Instantly you can park anywhere and no one suspects you’re sleeping in it. All they see is a work truck. I’ve been living full time in my truck in an urban environment for over a year and have never been asked to move….. not even once.
@@Rammer7 in my case they would be correct as it is also my mobile wood shop for my business. But if they try while I’m sleeping in it, with my dog, and my 8 camera security system, and my 9mm and 12 gauge it won’t be pretty. You can’t remove all risk in life. You can prepare for it.
Love this . Would feel safer for me as a solo female 75 year YOUNG traveler .❤
Ditto that jackieisbell7456
expensive build eh?
This is one of the very best stealth van builds I have ever seen, plenty of space too.
Impressive, though I would add a multifunctional/stealth ladder to get on and off the bed. I would also diversify the energy production and include a wind turbine (disguised as an air vent) so you can even charge the capacitor when you're driving as well as a cable from the alternator in case someone decides to throw something on the roof and destroythe solar cells which is a concern of mine. I'm a prepper so doing things in threes comes up a lot.
Fantastic build. True stealth. Only missing hidden security cameras in the sidemirrors etc ;)
Every home-owner, every business owner, every LawEnforcementOfficial, every addict...
...knows this's a residence.
Their lives depend on it.
How are you defining 'stealth'?
@@largemarge1603 you assume people look harder than they do. But it's up to the driver to park it somewhere stealthy or where it can at least blend in.
This is a really beautiful build‼️
My only suggestion would be a sliding screen over the skylight for use at night.
If you want to be truly stealth, you don’t want bright light to be visible through the skylight after dark.
Great design. I will add a retractable black out cover for the skylight so it will be stealth at night.
A lot of thought and work has gone into it. Much appreciation. 😊
Probably the best small space build I've ever seen, attention to detail unbelievable,amazing design and execution.crazy good.
I absolutely love all the customizable components. The fact that the build was created to resemble "residencial" life is like whipped buttercreme frosting on a red velvet cake.. so sweet!
@fruit,
With a blank slate, what could you create?
Red velvet doesn't go with buttercreamn frosting, it goes with cream cheese frosting. 🤣
Again, excellent design and presentation!!!!!
It's always a treat to meet a fellow professional
DUDE! This is nicer than my apartment! Subbed and saving for you to make me a custom truck!
Awesome job ❤
Straight up lol
Same!!
Nice looking build, one thing I did notice is that the rear leaf springs don’t look too happy, a new set with more capacity would be a good idea.
There are plenty of companies that use a polyurethane block in between the top of the spring and frame of Truck. They get 4.9 stars homeowner installed.
That’s called a bump stop. It has nothing to do with the load that’s on those leaf springs.
Wait till he loads it up with all his stuff and a motorcycle the bumper will be dragging on the ground.
Wait till he loads it up with all his stuff and a motorcycle the bumper will be dragging on the ground.
The truck Is probably an F350, an F450 or F550 would handle the load better.
This is awesome. I have been obsessed with all things bus life and van life for a while. This is truly impressive.
That was incredible. I’m in home renovation and I love the residential aspect of installation modifications. I also do catering BBQ and will be doing a new trailer build with sleeping quarters. When I do whole hogs is a 24 hour cook time. So usually I sleep over. Keep the videos coming.
I'm pretty low-maintenence and don't need much, but also as someone who rides I love love love this build! Highly impressed. Super clean and very well designed. This deserves a Nobel Prize for box builds.
You need something to cover the skylight. So inside light doesn't escape at night.
Also use a nylon winch cable with soft shackle. Nice build.
That track is amazing. That's actually what I want but a bigger moving truck for my bicycles and more room.Great job on that.
This is amazing. For Food service had the same box truck, it ALWAYS got attacked in the parking lot overnight. The gas tank got punctured 2 separated times (drained gas), the catalytic converter stolen 2 separate times, stalked and broken into, in 3 year period. It just seemed to be a magnet. How does one keep these vehicles safe. Wish it legal system worked. Thanks for your hard work!
Absolutely the best and minimalistic build i've seen so far, keep up the great work.
We have wildly different definitions of "comfortable" and "full usability".
Other than that, it's obviously an amazing achievement to plan, engineer, and build all of that.
Wow!!! 34 mins went by soooo fast! KILLER build! Well done 👏
Excellent work...very nice. A thought came to mind, when you mentioned no windows...perhaps mount 2 small security cameras on either side of the cab of the truck, and then mount (if space allows) 2 flat screen TV's inside as if they were windows. This could give the impression of windows inside, while also allowing for recording what's going on outside the cab of the truck.
Again, SUPER job. 👍
The only thing missing is a fold down tray in the bathroom for getting ready such as shaving blow dryer ect. Love it.😊
Yes, a small storage space where the front opens down to make a shelf would be good.
Also, thinking about shaving, I think a mirror at the kitchen sink would be good. The bathroom looks a bit small for the stepping back to make sure I got it all and there is no sink there.
They sell objects like that on line that are also heat proof for curling irons. When you’re done with it (over the sink) you simply roll it up.
@@kensmith5694
Are you sure you need another sink two paces from the galley?
2003, we built our ExpeditionVehicle.
Zero sinks.
Two decades full-time live-aboard.
@@largemarge1603 My comment was not about adding a sink. It was about adding a mirror somewhere for shaving. Keeping up the pretense of being a human and not some sort of werewolf means that I do need to shave even if I grow a beard.
@@largemarge1603
Why are you always questioning/correcting everyone? Your experience is your own. It's not always going to be converted perfectly for other people.
Dude that truck is awesome. Makes me want to get rid of my travel trailer and build one. Love that its stealth!
You talk a big game. But I have to say you really delivered. This is fantastic work 😀
You might try a different mounting solution for the mini-split condenser. They are supposed to be mounted straight up. Mounting it sideways like that is going to cause oil issues for the compressor. There is also normally supposed to be 18" of clearance for the coil to get adequate airflow across it.
It would require an actual HVAC guy to do something custom. But you can have the compressor mounted in another location so it can be oriented properly, then have the fan coil in the spot in the video. Just some slight repositioning to provide the correct clearance for airflow. I'd also recommend some sort of a divider to prevent the hot exhausted air from being recycled back through the condenser coil.
They also make mini-splits that have a reversing valve in them, so they provide heat as well as cooling. Honestly, I'm surprised you managed to find one that wasn't a heat pump. I've never seen a cooling only mini-split.
I know this is a bit late of a response, That isn't a residential mini split, it is a heavy vehicle mini. They are smaller and made to mount underneath for semis, small buses, vans, etc.
Truly residential. Truly discreet. Only a professional Stealth Box thief (if there is such a thing - and there probably is) would notice some of the outside accoutrements (e.g. vent, lock, etc.). I love the bathroom, washing machine, kitchen and oven, the sliding glass door and the look out the door when the deck is in place. If I rode a motorcycle, your set up for hauling it up and mounting it is perfect. Kudos!
Super clean build! Thanks for all the great ideas.
I really appreciate being able to store the bike and having full use of the living area.
Guy! I’m a woman and can say you nailed this! Would fit my hubby and I perfectly. All the little things others stated missing in the comments could be easily added & personalized to taste. Excellent work. Thanks for sharing.
I enjoyed the entire video..The mini washer works great, had one for several years.. And also the grey fold up bed you placed on the floor is super comfortable. Im currently sleeping on one it in my mother's tiny home she had built
I really like it! Nice job..I'm a home builder ,I love the fact it's like a home as much as possible.
This is fantastic!! You really thought of everything! I do agree with others on the protective guard for dump valve.
Smart design ❤❤❤. Add some protection around the drive tires to prevent damage to black tank when you blow a tire . A tire is going to blow one day. Other than that its a awesome setup. Great Sir..
Love this! Have you thought about a bed system for people who are not able to climb up? Also, you asked for suggestions? A CO2 monitor with a way to vent CO2 out and bring fresh air in, and a water filtration system. 😊 love the look of the shiplap and tile. Very fresh and clean looking!
I suggested some steps that can be deployed. I wouldn't have put the bed quite that high but there is a tradeoff with storage.
I wonder how much this costs
Excellent build. One of the best ive seen. I say you are a master designer, builder. My hat is off to you.👍
Awesome. One more thing I think would be a nice touch was some kind of flush mount fixing ring in the boards of the rear drop down door to let you raise/lower it using the winch from inside, if left attached over night you could just press the button from in bed in the morning and let it lower down to reveal whatever view you had out the back!
Epic as always. Brilliant use of that door spring.
Soooo nice! And 100% agree about having a black tank. Much more practical and efficient than the alternatives. Good job 👍🏻
@simp,
2003, we built our ExpeditionVehicle.
Zero plumbing to freeze, leak, maintain.
Oh, wow! That’s amazing! Do you have one of those toilets that wraps everything up in a foil like material?
The Box Truck Maestro...one of the best builds
Nice Homemade Camper in a Truck! Awesome 👍 And its just a Truck from outside!👍👌✌️🤞🙌🙏🇺🇲🤩🌻🌞
Nice work, I would suggest a steel wheel well to protect that black tank valve. Any road hazard or tire blow out will destroy that. Also, that medicine cabinet needs a good latch, when the driver has to brake hard his prescriptions will end up in the shower drain.
I'm thinking of 4 upgrades. 1. Recirculating shower. 2. Small cameras tied into the TV to see what's going on outside with a DVR system. Also with a monitor in the cab area so you have a backup camera.
3. A slightly larger skylight that would allow roof access to add a Starlink Dish when parked. With a sliding door to hide the interior light at night.
4. If possible a second storage area on the driver side to match the one on the passenger side.
This are my personal preferences. I like the idea of the box truck for stealth. Trying to convince the wife and looking into the 26 foot version.
1. No. Gross. Ugh.
@@opossumgrylls3275Why such a rude over reaction?
this is a perfect box truck, i recommend add backup camera and and sides cameras to assist with driving and security purposes
Great build.
I personally would add fender Liners Wheel Well Guards. To keep the under side protected from road debris.
I've watched many different builds, but honestly, I have to say yours is outstanding!
A Wonderful feature about this moving house is that you can safely get away from dangerous weather. 🤷 Furthermore, in the winter you can move down south and the summer you can go upstate 👍
Love the washer setup you made. Very clever and practical.
You don’t know how many hours I’ve spent in the back of those u-haul, Penske, Ryder and enterprise trucks delivering packages. I can open the back latch with my eyes closed and with one hand while holding a package.
Like a nightmare, I’m still hearing the familiar clinking sound as I write this and the sound of the door rolling along the rails.
Good to see someone do more than just move around boxes with this. Though a part of me still never wants to set foot in one ever again. Good on you.
Fantastic build! 1 Suggestion to move the controller box away from the closet rod. The clothes on hangers can get damaged rubbing the box and possibly the hangers could damage the controller ❤
Thought the same...or at least a thin cover shield?
@resu,
2003, we built our ExpeditionVehicle.
Clothes are rolled, stored in milk-style crates.
Plenty of ventilation, zero mold.
@@largemarge1603This clothing rod is meant for items that NEED to be hung up such as a man’s suit jacket.
Unbelievable!! I have spent over a year watching van build videos as party of the process of moving into one and living stealthily. Now, I'm thinking box truck. There are absolutely no compromises here. The bed, the clothes W/D just knocks it right out of the park for me!! Fabulous!
Dude you are an excellent craftsman!
Amazing! Had a laugh at the bidet idea. I love electronic bidet. Only in suggestion on your perfection: how about if you had foldout beds like in trains. Maybe I'm just too lazy... I don't know. 😉
Everything is spot on. My only concern is the durability of the plastic tanks against flying rocks and debris. Really like the focus on power independence.
Maybe some metal screening welded under the truck or on a hing so they could lock in place and swing down when needed?
great video, not just the build but your passion and knowledge and even salesmanship is impressive. one flex a box truck could make is a huge projector screen. maybe something pull down at the rear exit that can be used from either side? a serious desk (w/ starlink) that you'd take a remote zoom call from would be great too.
This is beautiful. Some of the best I have seen in 30 years of van life
This is really impressive and the bathroom is unique
In a world of van/box builds yours is impressive. Great work! Love the stealth. Would like to see a 26' bed over cab build.
Like the bed lol.
Everything about this build is perfect, except for the hot water heater. I would have gone with the a tankless instant hot water heater. Other than that, I absolutely love this build!! ❤️
Cheers
I love my tankless (I live in a house, not a truck or van, though). This is a great idea...wonder why he didn't opt for that instead? Not waiting for hot water = luxury! 😊
Maybe the tankless is more expensive than the electric water heater
That sounds like a great idea. 2.5 gallons of hot water doesn’t sound like nearly enough for me!
Not only very well thought out. What a beautiful design. Congratulations.
I dig the whiteboard ceilings, you can get some dry erase markers and write all over them like a mad man 😂. Cool build though.
Wow this is next level quality. Great build!
Thanks mate!
@@TheTechnoBarbarian cost of the build out please?
jesus, thats awesome. hope this is a lucrative endeavor for you because i just keep wanting to see more, and as always killing it on the idea of what a bed is used for and the space savings
We use tri-fold Futons to sleep in my rig and they are super comfy. Just fold em up and store them when not in use. Ours are 4" thick and it looks like they would fit nicely in his side storage space in the bedroom area.
For me it's one of the best ideas out there and very well thought out layout.
Well done
Great build brother!
My girl and I did the van life thing before it was trendy, like 10 years ago.
Before we bought though I tried to convince my girlfriend of the stealth benefits and roominess of the box.
We live in a house now but I still love the box idea