I prefer a fixed bed but I would honestly use that side pocket where the wheel is to store the extended bed base and tuck the 2 extended bed tops to the side of his counter so that big space underneath the bed is completely free. Shared storage is going to end up having to shift other items you store under there in order to access the bed extensions and not using the storage underneath the bed would be a waste of space. The bed extension itself is really cool though. No moving parts to jam or need to be fixed in the future and no nails or screws required to assemble. I just think it needs a dedicated spot to store the bed extension unit itself.
I love this design. Tons of storage with running water!! All he needs is an extendable faucet and boom! Shower! I think this is a much better use of space if comparing to your van since he has alot more counter space, cupboards and room for expansion even with the bed length ways. There's a dude on youtube: Dualex - video title: best camper conversion bed, which may be a more practical design for this layout, as the extended option simply slides out reducing the need to store the additional peices
I've been watching your videos for 2.5 years. Just got my van 2 days ago. It'll be at least another year before I'm free to start van living. She's on old girl, but only 112K miles on a 25 year old custom conversion van. She's retro and I'm having a great time exploring my new-to-me van. :)
I just got my 2003 E350 long wheelbase I have been working on the inside for 3 weeks off and on it's not a professional build like John has.. I have been getting free cabinets and wood and bed.. I do have my bed setup length wise and sink on the cabinets at the end of the bed ... but I like the puzzle piece to make the bed bigger... thanks for sharing... love your tour videos.. Stay Weird Chrome and Cruz..
Hey James , I tried my bed sideways in this E350 and its just not quite wide enough. Im only 5ft 9in. lengthwise is better especially in the extended version.
I have been watching your videos and you are doing what I always dreamed of. Being in a wheelchair puts a damper on those plans though. I admire the life you are now living. It brings you closer to nature and allows you to see the world's true beauty. I love it and I have subscribed. Maybe I can enjoy the life through your eyes. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us all.
I put my bed across the back also. I put in a full size mattress that I had to shorten a few inches. I finally realized that I wasn’t needing all that bed, so I cut some of the mattress off to be about a twin. Get this pic - head is on driver’s side, feet in passenger side (ot vice-versa. But, now I have a storage area between the mattress and the back doors. Get it? The platform that used to hold the mattress now holds other things!
Just so you know bro, were not all here to watch your wins. I mean that's what we want for you, but your trials and tribulations are experiences that we can learn from. Glad you didn't get it 💯 from the get go. You rock my man, keep Inspiring and thank you so much bro. All the best vibes I got heading atcha hope it hits ya like a bulldozer 👊
Thanks for sharing this van with us. I didn't feel guilty for you to snoop through your friend's van. 😉 I loved the bed setup. That bed extension is especially creative.
That is a nice build. :) With that layout he had the room to put in a bathroom if he wanted too. Love all the storage in there. I noticed that he didn't have any overhead storage. Makes it more open without it but he could always add it later on if he changes his mind.
I have wondered how dusty and dirty those round circles could get overtime on Chromes... This build would be easier to clean or keep clean I would think???
When I get my van, I am aiming for an old miners’ cabin look. I got the idea from watching Bonanza, which showed many old miner or way stations and had a primitive simple look. I am also a member of the Gold Prospectors Assoc. of America and LDMA since 2014. I would have the coolest van at Camp!
i would love to see a lot more! of this style of van build outs J5 Customs should show off his complete builds for ideas and business results of his craftsmanship
I think this is your best one yet.Amazing,yet simple build.....Love It. Thank you for sharing, and I'm sure this one is going to catch a few thousand hits right off the bat. Cheers Chrome!
Beds like Fords & Chevys....nice conversion.....but I like crossways like Chrom's van....Chrome...if it works....dont fix it! Wish we had a reasonable van builder in Florida. Great video!!
The box on the door - I was expecting it to be a shoe rack - Ikea uses shapes like that. But having a little cook table outside would be wonderful. On this build I noticed there isn't really a garage space...which makes me wonder if there won't be more cabinetry above the bed on the other side?
I'm so happy I did my van that way. I really like being able to walk in through the side door and walk out the back door. Just feels like I have so much more room.
They did a beautiful job on his van! I love the floor! 💚 I do love the wood walls & ceiling. I like your bed across the back better personally. I also really like the fold up table on the door!
Or at the least put them in the space between the fender wheel and cabinet vs under largest storage spot,,, or make attach to ceiling or make fit in back door skins and make doors to keep in... But the table thing could be like 3 in 1 " Jes-Se- Out-&-Into- The- Real " " Jes-Se- R- U- I- Z 👁" Jesse Ruiz
To me your conversion is more homey, more comfy, that one is just a up to date upgrade, it’s really nice,, but your van chrome is more of a let’s roll n comfy home
I love the flexibility to expand the bed, but can you also use the bench outside? Or could you use the X base for a portable seat with another smaller seat? Overall beautiful build!
More great ideas for when I finally have my van. I saw an awesome credenza type wooden file cabinet with 12 drawers on FB. It would certainly do the job like his sink wall.
I’ll have to go long ways with my bed I’m 6 foot 5 .the whole back of my mini van is a full size bed all storage in under bed.when I up grade to newer van I’ll still have to go long.thanks for sharing Chrome, give Cruz a scratch behind his ears for me brother👽👍
I think the box inside the door could be a little deeper with a pocket for putting things in without the falling around or falling out when you open it it.
Love your van conversion video. When you do solo woman van homes. I am interested to know devices or set ups for people traveling alone for security. Thanks.
You can't steal ideas (unless to make money), but be inspired by them. There were not many van lifers out on RUclips. You were one of the few that stated "you don't need all that stuff" (just do it). We are in a time that we are in a remix of the 70's. Looking forward to that coming back (i was 3 years old)
I have to agree with everyone else, yours seems like it has a lot more room and the crossways bed is a huge thing im going to adopt in my van.. Id be lying if I said im not stealing some ideas from your build to put into mine ;)
I thought that the base on the bed needed to be perforated in some way to avoid moisture build up? Also, that pop down table, I'd put on the back of the cupboard rather than hanging on the door.
I have been watching a channel for a while... it's called the dawn of and life and she is like the biggest fan of yours.. SHe is always saying wonderful things about you.. You should go and check her channel out... I think you were her inspiration...... I loved watching her today She was wearing one of you or sweat shirts.... Weirdos unite.. I really hope you see this comment.... It tickled my heart
![Eminem - Like My Shit [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vx_IMvFkrfA/mqdefault.jpg)
But the big question, is it Cruz Approved?
I prefer a fixed bed but I would honestly use that side pocket where the wheel is to store the extended bed base and tuck the 2 extended bed tops to the side of his counter so that big space underneath the bed is completely free. Shared storage is going to end up having to shift other items you store under there in order to access the bed extensions and not using the storage underneath the bed would be a waste of space. The bed extension itself is really cool though. No moving parts to jam or need to be fixed in the future and no nails or screws required to assemble. I just think it needs a dedicated spot to store the bed extension unit itself.
I love this design. Tons of storage with running water!! All he needs is an extendable faucet and boom! Shower! I think this is a much better use of space if comparing to your van since he has alot more counter space, cupboards and room for expansion even with the bed length ways. There's a dude on youtube: Dualex - video title: best camper conversion bed, which may be a more practical design for this layout, as the extended option simply slides out reducing the need to store the additional peices
I've been watching your videos for 2.5 years. Just got my van 2 days ago. It'll be at least another year before I'm free to start van living. She's on old girl, but only 112K miles on a 25 year old custom conversion van. She's retro and I'm having a great time exploring my new-to-me van. :)
May I ask, where did u find ur van? I live in PA, and I've seen nothing on CL.
@@theresmore2learn516 There's a lot of listings on Facebook Marketplace. It seems like a lot of people have transitioned there from Craigslist
John is a true craftsman, beautiful work. Mike has a great home.
I AGREE...new floor new bed!! CRUZIE NEEDS A CUSTOM BED TOO!!! OFF THE FLOOR...WITH EDGES..SO HE DOES NOT FALL OUT over the rough terrain...
Great video, Chrome thanks for sharing.... Friend John is a master craftsman... Thanks for the video...Hugs to Cruz...🦁🐶🦁🐶🦁🐶🦁
I dont know, having not been able to see either of your vans in person, I gotta say I like your bed better.
John’s cabinetry is sweet and the expandable bed is ingenious!
I just got my 2003 E350 long wheelbase I have been working on the inside for 3 weeks off and on it's not a professional build like John has.. I have been getting free cabinets and wood and bed.. I do have my bed setup length wise and sink on the cabinets at the end of the bed ... but I like the puzzle piece to make the bed bigger... thanks for sharing... love your tour videos.. Stay Weird Chrome and Cruz..
Hey James , I tried my bed sideways in this E350 and its just not quite wide enough. Im only 5ft 9in. lengthwise is better especially in the extended version.
tequila bar in the door, brilliant!
I Love going back and watching these older videos!
I always learn something I didn't see the first I watched it!
Thanks Chrome
I have been watching your videos and you are doing what I always dreamed of. Being in a wheelchair puts a damper on those plans though. I admire the life you are now living. It brings you closer to nature and allows you to see the world's true beauty. I love it and I have subscribed. Maybe I can enjoy the life through your eyes. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us all.
I like this but if I had the luxury of custom cabinets, every corner would be slightly rounded. Otherwise, beautiful build!
How fun to meet a subscriber
I put my bed across the back also. I put in a full size mattress that I had to shorten a few inches. I finally realized that I wasn’t needing all that bed, so I cut some of the mattress off to be about a twin. Get this pic - head is on driver’s side, feet in passenger side (ot vice-versa. But, now I have a storage area between the mattress and the back doors. Get it? The platform that used to hold the mattress now holds other things!
Just so you know bro, were not all here to watch your wins. I mean that's what we want for you, but your trials and tribulations are experiences that we can learn from. Glad you didn't get it 💯 from the get go. You rock my man, keep Inspiring and thank you so much bro. All the best vibes I got heading atcha hope it hits ya like a bulldozer 👊
Thanks for sharing this van with us. I didn't feel guilty for you to snoop through your friend's van. 😉
I loved the bed setup. That bed extension is especially creative.
You can take the bed extensions and use them as tables outside the van.
Great idea!
Thanks Crome! And thanks Mike! 😊
That is a nice build. :) With that layout he had the room to put in a bathroom if he wanted too. Love all the storage in there. I noticed that he didn't have any overhead storage. Makes it more open without it but he could always add it later on if he changes his mind.
over head storage coming later on , I agree with you...
I like your build better Chrome. That is a gorgeous build, love the floor but I love your cabinetry. I thought of getting a daybed
I have wondered how dusty and dirty those round circles could get overtime on Chromes... This build would be easier to clean or keep clean I would think???
Omg that is my setup without the fancy built cabinets . I put my bed long ways have the same alley way😁😎✌🚐
When I get my van, I am aiming for an old miners’ cabin look. I got the idea from watching Bonanza, which showed many old miner or way stations and had a primitive simple look.
I am also a member of the Gold Prospectors Assoc. of America and LDMA since 2014.
I would have the coolest van at Camp!
i would love to see a lot more! of this style of van build outs J5 Customs should show off his complete builds for ideas and business results of his craftsmanship
“5 ft11”,probably a little shorter.” Lol you crack me up Chrome✌🏼💋 Love you
Chrome. Please be safe with the impending tropical cyclone going into Canada. Love the videos and getting to travel with you and cruzie bear.
Man i love that curtain idea.
Crome with van envy - cute!
I like yours more Chrome. The sideway bed allows the van to seem cozy
Looks nice, but I prefer yours with the bed sideways and the overhead storage. Wouldn't want to have to put that bed together regularly!
Yea, same here.
more storage to come , its not done yet
Looks Great Mikey M. Well done. 😁👍
@@MrHSIE its an in progress build but getting there , Cheers Steve !
Owl, you've got a very positive attitude, that you'll be having that much sleep over company. 😄
I'm late to the game. Just now seeing this build and I love it. The carpentry work is awesome!!
I think this is your best one yet.Amazing,yet simple build.....Love It. Thank you for sharing, and I'm sure this one is going to catch a few thousand hits right off the bat. Cheers Chrome!
Thank you so much for being you
Beds like Fords & Chevys....nice conversion.....but I like crossways like Chrom's van....Chrome...if it works....dont fix it! Wish we had a reasonable van builder in Florida. Great video!!
I mean this as a compliment- you have a Mickey Dolenz quality in your look and voice.
The box on the door - I was expecting it to be a shoe rack - Ikea uses shapes like that.
But having a little cook table outside would be wonderful.
On this build I noticed there isn't really a garage space...which makes me wonder if there won't be more cabinetry above the bed on the other side?
John installed a roof vent in my GMC safari. Great work! Thank u John!
Very very nice build, clever extendable bed frame. Love the door cupboard
Chicks like gray!
I have the Rest of my Life to Prepare myself for the Lifestyle"
What an awesome way to end the day!! Cold Pale Ale right next to the water...🏞🏞🌲🌲🌲🤙
I'm so happy I did my van that way. I really like being able to walk in through the side door and walk out the back door. Just feels like I have so much more room.
Like a puzzle bed!! Cool 🚐🚐👍🏻👍🏻😀😀
Great execution of design and build with this van.
The curtain rod track was a nice touch, I would have overlooked that detail when I build.
I almost did my bed that direction but didn’t want to do it and undo it every dang night. Beautiful work!!💚💚💚
They did a beautiful job on his van! I love the floor! 💚 I do love the wood walls & ceiling. I like your bed across the back better personally. I also really like the fold up table on the door!
The bed expansion piece is so genius!
Very nicely done.
Beautiful build. Amazed at the carpentry skills.
I have the same bed plan in my savana but it's on door hinges so it can flip up for hauling large loads if needed.
Cool, sleek! ....where would the fridge go? vented? easy to access? place for bucket?
Bucket goes in the footwell by the co-pilot (aka, Cruz's) seat.
Cool, thanks
You should get the vinyl wood planks with adhesive backing so easy to install
A small piece like the bed top would be grand to make a small table when you want one also just use one of the bases and that table topper
Or at the least put them in the space between the fender wheel and cabinet vs under largest storage spot,,, or make attach to ceiling or make fit in back door skins and make doors to keep in...
But the table thing could be like 3 in 1
" Jes-Se- Out-&-Into- The- Real "
" Jes-Se- R- U- I- Z 👁"
Jesse Ruiz
Great video. But missed seeing Cruse today.
J5 is very Talented love the build!!
The term stealing. You are not stealing, you are relocating. Shaughnessy
That flat pack bed extension is a interesting idea
To me your conversion is more homey, more comfy, that one is just a up to date upgrade, it’s really nice,, but your van chrome is more of a let’s roll n comfy home
Have fun and take care and take it easy and enjoy it
I love the flexibility to expand the bed, but can you also use the bench outside? Or could you use the X base for a portable seat with another smaller seat? Overall beautiful build!
the bed extension can double as a bench outside and with a second set of cross pieces they could be a table for outside.....
I love this build.
More great ideas for when I finally have my van. I saw an awesome credenza type wooden file cabinet with 12 drawers on FB. It would certainly do the job like his sink wall.
I’ll have to go long ways with my bed I’m 6 foot 5 .the whole back of my mini van is a full size bed all storage in under bed.when I up grade to newer van I’ll still have to go long.thanks for sharing Chrome, give Cruz a scratch behind his ears for me brother👽👍
Yes that box on the door could be where you put your toilet bottle in there
Could totally use that bed extension for an outside table
I think the box inside the door could be a little deeper with a pocket for putting things in without the falling around or falling out when you open it it.
Love your van conversion video. When you do solo woman van homes. I am interested to know devices or set ups for people traveling alone for security. Thanks.
ruclips.net/video/0BjBYbIrZnE/видео.html
The bed extension could easily be taken outside to be used as a bench or table in a pinch.
Hey Chrome........love the videos, and Cruz. Keep on keeping on🤙
Nice built ... I prefer a flip up bed extension but that one can be used as an outside table...
Cool build. I am.6'3 and know I would have to have a bed go the long way.
I call that bed the puzzle bed intesting design he can have his roomy bed to move around and his usage of space now a van to be proud of
Awesome tips. Glad I decided to comeback, but sad I no longer have my minivan. Oh well! At least, I can plan better for my next one.
Those are pretty neat buttons
You can't steal ideas (unless to make money), but be inspired by them. There were not many van lifers out on RUclips. You were one of the few that stated "you don't need all that stuff" (just do it). We are in a time that we are in a remix of the 70's. Looking forward to that coming back (i was 3 years old)
Nice Van setup. I’m learning! I’m learning! Love this stuff
Getting ready to build out my GMC this fall...I see ideas I will be using!
With a high top, perfection 😃
I must say for Chrome I think he needs a Ford Sportsmobile 4x4 hightop, I know i do!
Just put the door table/stove storage on my list
Chrome your and Mike’s van are both sick 👍👍
I have to agree with everyone else, yours seems like it has a lot more room and the crossways bed is a huge thing im going to adopt in my van.. Id be lying if I said im not stealing some ideas from your build to put into mine ;)
I like the look of you guy's ceilings, but I'd want something lighter in color to brighten the space, since we don't have windows ☺
At least you have a desk top that works for dining or editing. I didnt see any table inside to eat on
Dawn should see this for her van
Very cool indeed. I like it. It’s well done.
Thanks for the video brother! Great ideas for sure...
Still wish John was in Cali 🎈😃🎈
Consider it your big metal tent and hit the road
See every body like more your van side ways bed and also you cabinets
Nice advice video, nice van build... build the van or living space to fit your lifestyle wherever possible , enjoy your day
I thought that the base on the bed needed to be perforated in some way to avoid moisture build up?
Also, that pop down table, I'd put on the back of the cupboard rather than hanging on the door.
Awesome ideas Chrome! I’m starting construction on my van next week I’ll be using a laminated wood floor I hope it’s durable.
Love the van mod vids! I like your layout better though!
I have been watching a channel for a while... it's called the dawn of and life and she is like the biggest fan of yours.. SHe is always saying wonderful things about you.. You should go and check her channel out... I think you were her inspiration...... I loved watching her today She was wearing one of you or sweat shirts.... Weirdos unite.. I really hope you see this comment.... It tickled my heart
The dawn of van life ...
Great set up. Thanks for the tour.
Awesome
That’s really cool but darn I’m an American and this pandemic is keeping me south of the border and can’t get John to do my van like that.lol.
I've been slacking on the videos apparently. I completely missed the roof redo. Looks great Chrome!
@@craigbetts1586 both? I've been working on converting my skoolie. I've been slacking on his videos sooo much.
@@craigbetts1586No, I don't. I've had alot of people make the suggestion but I'm still toying with the idea.