@@BigVanSmallWorld Remember, everything happens for a reason, usually a better reason. I think perhaps it's really time you moved on anyway ... ... when one door closes another door opens, and what's on the other side of that door is usually better. In my many years experience I have found this to be true. In just one instance ... I was sacked from my job (office in London) but found a new job, much better offices (cleaner, smarter, nearer to Ststion), much more money AND much nicer people 👍👍 All good. Move on. Enjoy the hols 💯😁
@@BigVanSmallWorld Like they say... One bad apple will spoil the bunch. All good things at some point must come to an end Mel. I so look forward to seeing what you and Becky have ahead of you!
@@BigVanSmallWorldI hope you and Becky have a fabulous break, but cannot wait for new content showing the rest of your builds and your travels once she's up and running. As for the controversy at the barn I feel sorry for you because the amount of hours and that that you have put in to build on the working ethics within the workshop truly is a big let down for everyone involved in building their camper van builds with your knowledge and help. Enjoy the sun sea sander metal detecting❤
I have been following you with this conversion of the Vario from day 1 it’s So horrific that you and Becky have had to give into this situation, hope you and Becky spill the beans soon, until then enjoy your holiday and hope to see the continuation of the conversion to its final glory 👍
I hope you both have a wonderful holiday you both deserve it. glad your out with dragonfly and looking forward to your adventures once she/he/theyre finished lots of love guys
@@BigVanSmallWorld Always a pleasure seeing you pair. Also so many helpful tips as I am doing a conversions myself. Keep smiling folks you've got this ☺
Positive news on the insurance front-excellent! I hope my last comment was helpful. Enjoy your holiday! Ah, the bitter twist of fate: the ones we trust and confide in often end up letting us down. It stings, especially when we least expect it
It’s fucking shit isn’t it 😢and always the good people that get shit on too!! Anyway onwards and upwards. Friends come for seasons, reasons, or lifetimes. 😊
@@BigVanSmallWorld I'm 23 years old and when I told my mother I wanted to move out the first thing she did was sell my Honda Odyssey. I'm still stuck at home and helpless to change my future. The world is different than it was in the 80s,90s or early 2000s. The USA is not a golden land of opportunity but a hellish shopping mall where everyone is either a customer or a captive slave. When the only thing people aspire to is more access to debt and the only thing they want is to indulge in more consumerism it creates a disgusting world. Bloated by excess, ballooned out of proportion by debt and unimaginably cruel. Anything can be justified so long as it keeps consumers shopping and slaves working. So, please value your freedom and put yourself to work so that you can enjoy security and safety once again. As long as you are on the move there will be new opportunities and jobs. Please don't be like me; trapped and helpless in Atlanta, Georgia where hundreds of people compete for every minimum wage position. Where debt and college loans are just the only way to live with no alternatives.
@@BigVanSmallWorld I'm a young person in the USA and not owning my own vehicle or being allowed to do anything has made life difficult and painful for me I'm 23 and can go nowhere without permission
Great to finally be driving the van out on the road after all the hard work Mel I bet.End of an era at the barn but so often in life these things happen and something better is round the corner.Enjoy your break 👍
great ole van these. drove many 814 mercedes 7% ton rigids back in the day. wish you all the best getting this merc motd. and road worthy. a proper beast of a van. there getting hard and costly to come by now a days. if i were you keep a good one for yourself 😎
Hi Mel & Rebecca, I have thoroughly enjoyed your videos over the last year or so. Thanks for producing such quality content, it's great to see your work, both in building & video content, improving along the way. It has been a genuine pleasure and education following you both. Looking forward to seeing your next steps. I will certainly keep following. All the best in your future endeavours. 👌❤👍
Hi dude glad u got insurance sorted. Just a little thing. I spotted the van in front of urs had a towbar be careful because the rules are very different if u put a towbar on a 7.5ton. Well even a 3.5tone. And it only needs to be fitted not carrying anything.
@@tin-tin83 because of the wight of the trailer. tachograph and CPC rules may apply. 3.5ton u have to be careful and 7.5ton u may need a heavy license to tow a trailer.
All the best to you and Rebecca mate,. Whatever happened in the barn, who cares your still here, your still going strong,..''Never Stop Exploring'',. Enjoy a well earned holiday,...😁
Hi Mel watched all your vids on the Vario enjoyed each one, sorry it’s come to you having to leave the barn for whatever reason but keep up the good work as I know you will and keep the vids coming. You enjoy your holiday with Rebecca you both deserve it Happy Travels you are one top guy. Regards Jack.
So sorry to see you leaving the barn after all the work you did to build that community....I am sure your reaaons will come out and I have my suspicions....filming, music etc. That aside, would be great to see how you have fitted your awning to the unistrut. Also, if you can get your head around the braking system and share with us....thanks!😊
good night Becky and Mel i love watching your videos on your RUclips channel I hope that you too are well and enjoying your conversion on your new camper van I hope it passes it mot tomorrow and good news about your insurance good luck Becky and Mel please keep safe and warm, please keep up your good work on your you tube channels
Hi Mel... have a well earned holiday. I have finally finished (never really finished is it!!) Sprinter build, now designated as a Motorcaravan (top 5%, allegedly), please get in touch as I have surplus for your Luxurious Overlander... All the best, Andrew & Sam Birmingham.
Great news on the insurance and beautiful dragon fly looks so awesome inside and out good news on the mot too 😊about from the brakes but still amazing. I’m sorry to hear what happened in the barn hope you’re both ok. Have such amazing holiday you both need it and enjoy the sun and crystal clear water 💙💙
@@BigVanSmallWorld thanks but you both need to take care of yourselfs. You’re both important to anyone. Me I’m a lost Hope lately with things. Enjoy the time away to relax and recharge and then back to your dragon fly. Sorry that’s happened tho especially when your all so close at the barn 💙
Hi Mel, just wanted you to know about 6D Diesels in Dorset, they are creating an upgrade to those old Merc vans to install a new spec CDi motor with 135 bhp plus. There videos are always worth a watch. Good luck mate.
Have a great Holiday Mel & Rebecca. A well earned time to recharge your batteries . Im looking forward to seeing you metal detecting adventures again soon.
Sad that's the end of barn Mel. Been enjoyable watching. But as you said you've earned a break. Hope you thoroughly enjoy it. And make many happy memories in Dragonfly 😊😊
Mel I am delighted for you that you eventually got your insurance sorted out. Loving what you are doing with the van, a great demonstration of craftsmanship, determination and resilience. As for the barn, if my memory is correct did you not mention some months ago that the barn was to be demolished? I assumed that a stay of execution might have been got... Whatever about it, the barn is a fabulous idea. Wishing you all the very best 👍
Thank you for your support really appreciate it and yes the barn is going to come to and end and now I’m not there it will end early as they have shot them selves in the foot
The 24volt compressor for the air brakes uses mondo juice just when cranking has kicked the guts out of the batteries which is a big strain on the charging system so you really need top quality batt's that can take it. I think it's a really bad set-up. Think I'm going to fit a back-up compressor like an Onboard Air system for that just in case situation. Also well worth getting used to pulling the handbrake system pins at the calipers should the need arise!
Good to see her out and running, It seemed to me like you had a lot of distractions at the barn people taking you off your van for help. I'm sure you'll have it finished quicker now it's out of there and the barns dead line isn't on your mind.
Thank you and yes the people at the barn were constantly asking for help and me being me was always willing but you’re right some days I’d hardly even get anything done on my van 😑🍻👍
Its a shame you have to leave the barn, and your choice if you explain the reason for it but I am going to have a punt lol Someone didn't like you keep filming and you asking them to turn there music down or off due to RUclips rules, or they seemed as though you was taking control over the barn jealously can be a route of evil, I may be way off the mark but worth a guess, Adi must have a good reason in his eyes for moving you on I feel sorry for you as you had such a great setup there its a real shame I hope things work out for you in the end good luck enjoy your holiday have a nice break
Hi Mel, when you drove to have your MOT done on the Vario did you have a valid Road Fund Tax? Why I’m asking is that both of mine had expired and I had to payout for transport to have them done at great cost. Keep up the good videos always enjoyable, been following you for years. Regards to you both. Graham.
Enjoy your holiday, you two. Can I just say we follow you and support you, so can't you give us the reason or at least elude to why you've left the barn now?
Thank you Becky is working on a video right now but I’m still undecided about making one as the way we have been treated is so deplorable that I don’t want to send that negativity out there 👍🍻👍
Hi Mel. It’s been a while but thought I’d check in. Firefly looks great. You’ve done a great job there. The hot water chlorifer where did you get that from. Been having problems with my water system and we have tried everything from putting in a new pump to making sure there wasn’t any air in the system and it’s not heating and flowing as it should 😘 As always videos are informative and interesting to watch 😘
Hi Mel , Another vanlifer ‘ Mad Mark’s Van Life was quoted £3 k also for his van insurance....maybe you could give him some words of wisdom since your original quote was £3 k then you got insurance too what £600 . I m glad you got your insurance sorted . Take care 👋🏻🏴
Somethings not right with one of them I must have missed something or maybe it just wasn’t right I don’t know until I get my hands on it after I’ve had a rest 👍
Hi mate, your videos, along with "bus off with josi,e" have convinced me to buy a vario 61, which I picked up today. I got it from wolverhampton. By the time I got to my parents' 2.5 hrs awa, the batteries were flat. The guy said he had to jump start it as it had been stood for ages? Bought two new batteries, and it started with no problem. Tomorrow.i have a 6 hrs drive home to the highlands and am worried it could be the alternator. would there be a light on the dash if it was the alternator? And do you know where I could get one? I have tried Ebay and amazon but can't find it. Thanks Mel, and thanks for the inspiration. Gonna be living in it full time once.converted. also gonna try and RUclips the.progress.etc God bless, mate. Frank.
Hi Frank congratulations on getting a vario. I’m thinking when you farst turn the ignition key so only the lights on the dashboard are on you should see all the warning lights come on before you crank the engine oil light alternator light extra as long as they all go out when you crank and start the engine you’re good to go. It does sound like the old battery’s were shot. One thing I did before driving mine was to get RAC cover just in case good luck buddy hope you have a safe drive home and welcome to the Vario family 👍🍻👍
Thanks ever so much for your advice mate! You may be pleased to hear I drove it home in a oner 458 miles back to my glen and it didnt miss a beat! Also it only took just over 3/4 of a tank! Alternator is fine with the two new batteries and all is well mate! Gonna get tore into the tear out this week end! Quite a job! thanks again son God Bless You! Frank.
The barn has been your life for the past 2 years but now a new adventure begins…. Such a shame though Mel, why do some people have to behave like twats. Good news about the insurance though! … Insurance companies right now seem to be charging ridiculous amounts of money, and I keep hearing of some being quoted stupid money, especially since the Luton Fire…. Fortunately mine only went up £60 this year. 2 weeks ago I was cleaning the roof when the ladder slipped and I hit the ground on my back from 6ft. I ended up in hospital with a cracked hip, two cracks in my spine, and 2 cracked ribs. I’m now thankfully recovering at home with things starting to get a lot easier each day. However we had to cancel a 3 week tour of Ireland from this coming Tuesday, and I lost my £316 ferry fare because I didn’t take out cover at the time of booking… I’m thankful because it could have been a lot worse. Onwards and upwards eh Mel 👍✊🍻
Mel, Your continuing your channel I hope....you had me worried for a while 😦then when your channel went quiet . Obviously something unpleasant happened in the Barn , you leaving when Becky stopped coming too the Barn. Take care 👋🏻🏴glad Dragonfly passed. 👍🏻🏴eventually x
If things aren't working where you are, just move on.. Or get rid of people out of your life.. 👍 The MOT tester has to test it as you present it. If you say its a camper, it's a camper. That's what the tester told me when I had mine tested and I'd only just lined it out and fitted the bed. 👍
I lived in buses and trucks for 12 years, until 1996. Goods vehicles and buses at the time, had to look as though they wouldn't carry goods. To get a PLG mot. The rules were, at the time, bed, cooker, seating, wardrobe, table, water storage for 6 gallons. Not every vehicle that we presented had all of these, but they certainly looked lived in, most had woodstoves, even Rayburns, sofas, etc. They certainly couldn't be used for their intended commercial purpose, so no problem. I took one in, no windows, insulation, just a bed, cooker and woodstove, not long after I bought it.
It's basically down to the testers discretion as to whether or not it's a motor caravan, no ardf or fast rules just guidelines but most want a bed and seating at minimum 🤔 I had the same with my ambulance conversion and that's what all 3 testers at the HGV test centre told me.
When I say storage for six gallons, we used to use the old 5 gallon plastic cans from the car wash fluid, wash them out with hot water, then again, rinse and repeat. Use them for washing water for a while, then promote them for drinking water. I had a big one gallon enamel kettle to decant into. My water cans lived outside. Technically a pair of them are more than six gallons of water storage. It's easier to carry one in each hand partially full, than a full one.
I know you both feel hurt at the moment but it's best for your overall health to not respond to the bullies in the barn with a video. This only gives them, and others, a reason to talk back. You and Rebecca have fun and adventures to look forward to in your van, so go and make fun. People watch the videos to hear about vanlife travels in your "...luxurious over lander". Maybe take a break and then put your energy into what matters. Have loved watching both channels. You and Rebecca are honest and genuine people.
such a shame after such a long time and many people through that it ended like that in the barn but your free now and could see it had dragged u both down x JT.....
Go on mel,fill us all in on whats happened in the barn ❤
Becky is working on a video
@@BigVanSmallWorld ok great,i hope you both are enjoying your
Hols 🥰
Gutted for you all to hear about the barn
@@BigVanSmallWorld Remember, everything happens for a reason, usually a better reason. I think perhaps it's really time you moved on anyway ... ... when one door closes another door opens, and what's on the other side of that door is usually better. In my many years experience I have found this to be true. In just one instance ... I was sacked from my job (office in London) but found a new job, much better offices (cleaner, smarter, nearer to Ststion), much more money AND much nicer people 👍👍 All good. Move on. Enjoy the hols 💯😁
That was sad seeing you leave the barn 😢
You have built up your own little community
I wish every bit of luck and happiness with your travels
Thank you it certainly wasn’t a happy ending the so called community actually turned against us
@@BigVanSmallWorld after all you done for them 😡
@@BigVanSmallWorld😮
Spill the beans Mel ….. the rumour mill is running rife 😮
Becky is working on a video now me I’m undecided about it because we where treated so badly
@@BigVanSmallWorld Like they say... One bad apple will spoil the bunch. All good things at some point must come to an end Mel. I so look forward to seeing what you and Becky have ahead of you!
@@BigVanSmallWorldI hope you and Becky have a fabulous break, but cannot wait for new content showing the rest of your builds and your travels once she's up and running.
As for the controversy at the barn I feel sorry for you because the amount of hours and that that you have put in to build on the working ethics within the workshop truly is a big let down for everyone involved in building their camper van builds with your knowledge and help.
Enjoy the sun sea sander metal detecting❤
Sometimes you just have to move on....stagnant water gathers moss...
Brighter days ahead...
Thanks ☺️
I have been following you with this conversion of the Vario from day 1 it’s So horrific that you and Becky have had to give into this situation, hope you and Becky spill the beans soon, until then enjoy your holiday and hope to see the continuation of the conversion to its final glory 👍
Thank you ☺️
Happy Holidays Mel, leave negative people behind, don't need them in our lives
I hope you both have a wonderful holiday you both deserve it. glad your out with dragonfly and looking forward to your adventures once she/he/theyre finished lots of love guys
Thank you ☺️
@@BigVanSmallWorld Always a pleasure seeing you pair. Also so many helpful tips as I am doing a conversions myself. Keep smiling folks you've got this ☺
oohhh We all want the gos on the barn situation...you dont have to name names. Have a great holiday guys.
Maybe I’ll make a video Becky is working on one now
Positive news on the insurance front-excellent! I hope my last comment was helpful. Enjoy your holiday! Ah, the bitter twist of fate: the ones we trust and confide in often end up letting us down. It stings, especially when we least expect it
Thank you
It’s fucking shit isn’t it 😢and always the good people that get shit on too!!
Anyway onwards and upwards. Friends come for seasons, reasons, or lifetimes. 😊
Congratulations Mel
Thanks ☺️
Don't worry about furnishing. As long as the van is in good condition you should feel good about just getting out of there
Yes definitely 👍
@@BigVanSmallWorld I'm 23 years old and when I told my mother I wanted to move out the first thing she did was sell my Honda Odyssey. I'm still stuck at home and helpless to change my future. The world is different than it was in the 80s,90s or early 2000s.
The USA is not a golden land of opportunity but a hellish shopping mall where everyone is either a customer or a captive slave.
When the only thing people aspire to is more access to debt and the only thing they want is to indulge in more consumerism it creates a disgusting world. Bloated by excess, ballooned out of proportion by debt and unimaginably cruel. Anything can be justified so long as it keeps consumers shopping and slaves working.
So, please value your freedom and put yourself to work so that you can enjoy security and safety once again. As long as you are on the move there will be new opportunities and jobs.
Please don't be like me; trapped and helpless in Atlanta, Georgia where hundreds of people compete for every minimum wage position. Where debt and college loans are just the only way to live with no alternatives.
@@BigVanSmallWorld I'm a young person in the USA and not owning my own vehicle or being allowed to do anything has made life difficult and painful for me
I'm 23 and can go nowhere without permission
Great vlog Mel Have a great Holiday guy's
Be safe
Thank you for the positive vibes really appreciated 👍🤓👍
Great to finally be driving the van out on the road after all the hard work Mel I bet.End of an era at the barn but so often in life these things happen and something better is round the corner.Enjoy your break 👍
So true! Thank you 🙏
great ole van these. drove many 814 mercedes 7% ton rigids back in the day. wish you all the best getting this merc motd. and road worthy. a proper beast of a van. there getting hard and costly to come by now a days. if i were you keep a good one for yourself 😎
Thank you and yes this one’s a keeper for sure 🍻👍
Great video sir
Great to see you both, been worried about you. Sorry to hear about "issues". Great idea to take a break, have a lovely time 💜
Thanks so much! hopefully we get to see each other again sometime soon 🍻👍
Just dropped my van off at the garage tonight for its MOT tomorrow morning 🤞.hope you both have a lovely holiday.👍
Thank you and good luck 🤞
Hi Mel & Rebecca, I have thoroughly enjoyed your videos over the last year or so. Thanks for producing such quality content, it's great to see your work, both in building & video content, improving along the way. It has been a genuine pleasure and education following you both. Looking forward to seeing your next steps. I will certainly keep following. All the best in your future endeavours. 👌❤👍
Thank you so much! That’s really kind of you to say 🫶👍
New adventure mel .hopefully you see the guys on the road .
Hi dude glad u got insurance sorted. Just a little thing. I spotted the van in front of urs had a towbar be careful because the rules are very different if u put a towbar on a 7.5ton. Well even a 3.5tone. And it only needs to be fitted not carrying anything.
Oh that’s interesting thank you ill check that out really appreciate that you have taken the time to comment 👍
What's that then
@@tin-tin83 because of the wight of the trailer. tachograph and CPC rules may apply. 3.5ton u have to be careful and 7.5ton u may need a heavy license to tow a trailer.
Great vlog Have a great Holiday guy's 👍
Be safe and see you soon
Thanks again 👍
Hi Mel, Ive really enjoyed the Barn life, shame it’s come to an end. Onwards & upwards as they say. ~Have a great holiday 😊
Thank you! You
Thinking of you mel 💙 well done for being a fantastic guy and hope everything works out fine 🙂
Thanks so much🫶
Great news on the insurance it pays to shop about. Go have a well earned rest the both of you ❤
Thank you ☺️
All the best to you and Rebecca mate,. Whatever happened in the barn, who cares your still here, your still going strong,..''Never Stop Exploring'',. Enjoy a well earned holiday,...😁
Thank you for the positive vibes really appreciated 👍🤓👍
Hi Mel watched all your vids on the Vario enjoyed each one, sorry it’s come to you having to leave the barn for whatever reason but keep up the good work as I know you will and keep the vids coming. You enjoy your holiday with Rebecca you both deserve it Happy Travels you are one top guy. Regards Jack.
Enjoy your holidays guys, the van is looking great so far.
All the very best to you both. 🍻
Thank you that’s very kind of you to say
So sorry to see you leaving the barn after all the work you did to build that community....I am sure your reaaons will come out and I have my suspicions....filming, music etc. That aside, would be great to see how you have fitted your awning to the unistrut. Also, if you can get your head around the braking system and share with us....thanks!😊
Have a great huday you two. Well deserved. X
Thank you 🙏
good night Becky and Mel i love watching your videos on your RUclips channel I hope that
you too are well and enjoying your conversion on your new camper van I hope it passes it mot tomorrow and good news about your insurance good luck Becky and Mel please keep safe and warm, please keep up your good work on your you tube channels
Thank you 🫶👍
Hi Mel... have a well earned holiday. I have finally finished (never really finished is it!!) Sprinter build, now designated as a Motorcaravan (top 5%, allegedly), please get in touch as I have surplus for your Luxurious Overlander...
All the best,
Andrew & Sam
Birmingham.
Hay buddy my email is melpettipher@msn or look me up on facebook mel Pettifer would be great to hear from you both again Becky says Hi 👋
That brings back memories. I used to drive a couple of those in Gilbeys, Belfast. Delivering Smirnoff etc!
ONE OF MY FAVE VLOGGERS ON YOU TUBE, WHAT EVER THE DRAMMA KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK STAY HAPPY
Wow, thank you! That’s really kind of you to say means so much and makes a difference 👍🤓👍🍻🍻
I’m sorry it came to that type of ending Mel (and B)
Hoping you have a wonderful holiday and really hope we can see you again soon ❤❤ much love
Hi thank you so very much we love you too 🫶and we are sure that will see you again soon 👍🤓👵👍
Great news on the insurance and beautiful dragon fly looks so awesome inside and out good news on the mot too 😊about from the brakes but still amazing. I’m sorry to hear what happened in the barn hope you’re both ok. Have such amazing holiday you both need it and enjoy the sun and crystal clear water 💙💙
Thank you buddy really appreciate your taking the time to comment take care of yourself 👍
@@BigVanSmallWorld thanks but you both need to take care of yourselfs. You’re both important to anyone. Me I’m a lost Hope lately with things. Enjoy the time away to relax and recharge and then back to your dragon fly.
Sorry that’s happened tho especially when your all so close at the barn 💙
Enjoy your holidays you two x
Thank you! You 👍
loving the retro van!! hope to see you out on the road in it one day!
Thank you 🙏
What a shame Mel, you had such a great time in the barn, but it looks like tensions are on a HIGH.??!!
hope you and misses enjoy your holiday m8 👍👍
Thank you 🙏
That must be a proper Gut-Wrencher! Having to move out of the barn ... Enjoy Your Break!! Mel 😎
Thanks 👍
Love ur vids mate, can’t believe the barn went sour, always seemed a great atmosphere there, have a good holiday and feck them
Thank you 🙏
Hi Mel, just wanted you to know about 6D Diesels in Dorset, they are creating an upgrade to those old Merc vans to install a new spec CDi motor with 135 bhp plus. There videos are always worth a watch. Good luck mate.
Thanks for the info!
Have a great Holiday Mel & Rebecca. A well earned time to recharge your batteries . Im looking forward to seeing you metal detecting adventures again soon.
Thank you and definitely will do some treasure hunting soon 👍
Sad that's the end of barn Mel. Been enjoyable watching. But as you said you've earned a break. Hope you thoroughly enjoy it. And make many happy memories in Dragonfly
😊😊
Thank you for taking the time to write that is really appreciated 👍🍻👍
Mel I am delighted for you that you eventually got your insurance sorted out. Loving what you are doing with the van, a great demonstration of craftsmanship, determination and resilience. As for the barn, if my memory is correct did you not mention some months ago that the barn was to be demolished? I assumed that a stay of execution might have been got... Whatever about it, the barn is a fabulous idea. Wishing you all the very best 👍
Thank you for your support really appreciate it and yes the barn is going to come to and end and now I’m not there it will end early as they have shot them selves in the foot
Great job sad about the barn
Well done Mel you done well on dragonfly gonna miss the barn wish you and Rebecca good luck for the future
Thank you that’s very kind of you to say really appreciate that 🍻👍
great see vi out thanks lee
Awe the best guys ❤ have a great time
Thank you ☺️
@@BigVanSmallWorld ❤️
Weldone Mel... 👍
Hope you both have a cracking, well deserved holiday. 😎🍺🍹
Thank you that’s very kind of you 🍻👍
Such a shame things went wrong at the barn. Enjoy your hols 🎉
Thank you 🙏
If you are heading towards southern spain. Come visit campo de los suenos near murcia.
Well done!!now,Enjoy!!!
Thank you, I will
The 24volt compressor for the air brakes uses mondo juice just when cranking has kicked the guts out of the batteries which is a big strain on the charging system so you really need top quality batt's that can take it. I think it's a really bad set-up. Think I'm going to fit a back-up compressor like an Onboard Air system for that just in case situation. Also well worth getting used to pulling the handbrake system pins at the calipers should the need arise!
You know what I have absolutely no idea how the air compressor works it’s something that I really need to get my head around thank you 👍🍻👍
Good to see her out and running, It seemed to me like you had a lot of distractions at the barn people taking you off your van for help. I'm sure you'll have it finished quicker now it's out of there and the barns dead line isn't on your mind.
Thank you and yes the people at the barn were constantly asking for help and me being me was always willing but you’re right some days I’d hardly even get anything done on my van 😑🍻👍
Have a great holiday
Thank you ☺️
well done Mell after all your had wort,hope to see you and Rebecca on the road somewhere in the near future with Dragonfly. best wishes Colin.
Thank you well be pretty hard to miss in dragonfly so if you do see us please do come say hi 👍🍻👍
Get a pair of matched new batteries Mel. The odd one will pull each other down all the time. Enjoy your holiday and BALLS to the community👍
Thank you I’m thinking of using my old AGMs that I took out of my sprinter
Its a shame you have to leave the barn, and your choice if you explain the reason for it but I am going to have a punt lol
Someone didn't like you keep filming and you asking them to turn there music down or off due to RUclips rules,
or they seemed as though you was taking control over the barn
jealously can be a route of evil,
I may be way off the mark but worth a guess, Adi must have a good reason in his eyes for moving you on
I feel sorry for you as you had such a great setup there its a real shame I hope things work out for you in the end good luck
enjoy your holiday have a nice break
Thank you you’re almost right maybe I’ll make a follow up video I’m undecided 🤷♂️
Fuck me that van when you started is so noisy like a tractor 🤣🤣🤣
But I love it clad you got insurance Mel 👍😊
Haha it’s not stealthy that’s for sure 🤣😂👍
You should do a social justice by naming the insurance company,
£ 3000 indeed
I really don’t want to
@@BigVanSmallWorld Why? Water under the bridge now
Hi Mel, when you drove to have your MOT done on the Vario did you have a valid Road Fund Tax? Why I’m asking is that both of mine had expired and I had to payout for transport to have them done at great cost. Keep up the good videos always enjoyable, been following you for years.
Regards to you both.
Graham.
As far as I know as long as you’re insured you are ok to drive between MOT and home as long as it’s pre booked
Oh my 👏🏻🏴
Enjoy your holiday, you two.
Can I just say we follow you and support you, so can't you give us the reason or at least elude to why you've left the barn now?
Thank you Becky is working on a video right now but I’m still undecided about making one as the way we have been treated is so deplorable that I don’t want to send that negativity out there 👍🍻👍
Mel, you know you can shock 12v LA batteries with a welder? Loads of video's on YT fir restoring old dead batteries and it does work.
Oh really that’s interesting but knowing my luck they would explode and cover me in acid lol
Have a great holiday guys!
Thank you! 👍
It's a shame when things turn sour.
Hi Mel. It’s been a while but thought I’d check in. Firefly looks great. You’ve done a great job there.
The hot water chlorifer where did you get that from. Been having problems with my water system and we have tried everything from putting in a new pump to making sure there wasn’t any air in the system and it’s not heating and flowing as it should 😘
As always videos are informative and interesting to watch 😘
I got it from Bobil vans thanks for the positive feedback really appreciated 🫶👍
After all your hard work, why not give yourself a treat and get a professional valet in to clean the van!
Hi Mel , Another vanlifer ‘ Mad Mark’s Van Life was quoted £3 k also for his van insurance....maybe you could give him some words of wisdom since your original quote was £3 k then you got insurance too what £600 . I m glad you got your insurance sorted . Take care 👋🏻🏴
thank you x
Nice big Van
Thank you we are looking forward to using it soon 👍
Great news but various is too hard on fuel
its actually much better on fuel consumption that the sprinter - so we're laughing!
@SACREDTRAVELLER not possible given its weight vs sprinter
Maybe but they are as cool as fk 😊👍
@@DerekObrien-tk7weI know how, but it is 🙌🏻. Maybe if we were to fully use the full weight it would be different. But we won’t be for everyday living.
How do you insure your van if you have no fixed abode?
I do have a fixed abode
Crazy. I pay £150 fully comp.
Maybe if you started the ven before you checked all the lights it may have started
Yeah you’re right about that 👍
You said you are taking Dragonfly for a retest after fixing the brakes. I thought you did them in a video 10 months ago.
Somethings not right with one of them I must have missed something or maybe it just wasn’t right I don’t know until I get my hands on it after I’ve had a rest 👍
What insurance company did you go with?
Howdens
Hi, Mel could you say who you got your insurance from, because that was a massive drop from you troubled first quotes.
howedens
Have I missed something regarding you having to move out? I though everyon was getting out because the building was coming down.
I’m trying not to go into too much detail
Hope everything is ok with you mel….Sadly some people in this world are toxic...
Thank you all ok 👍
Who did you insure with, we full-time have no home and it costs £1600 a year.?
Howdens
hi mel,do you have a link to the insurance company you used ?.ta
I’m not a fan of them at the moment
Hi mate, your videos, along with "bus off with josi,e" have convinced me to buy a vario 61, which I picked up today. I got it from wolverhampton. By the time I got to my parents' 2.5 hrs awa, the batteries were flat. The guy said he had to jump start it as it had been stood for ages? Bought two new batteries, and it started with no problem. Tomorrow.i have a 6 hrs drive home to the highlands and am worried it could be the alternator. would there be a light on the dash if it was the alternator? And do you know where I could get one? I have tried Ebay and amazon but can't find it. Thanks Mel, and thanks for the inspiration. Gonna be living in it full time once.converted. also gonna try and RUclips the.progress.etc
God bless, mate. Frank.
614d
Hi Frank congratulations on getting a vario. I’m thinking when you farst turn the ignition key so only the lights on the dashboard are on you should see all the warning lights come on before you crank the engine oil light alternator light extra as long as they all go out when you crank and start the engine you’re good to go. It does sound like the old battery’s were shot. One thing I did before driving mine was to get RAC cover just in case good luck buddy hope you have a safe drive home and welcome to the Vario family 👍🍻👍
PS The best place for parts is Mercedes you’re be surprised that sometimes they are actually cheaper than pattern parts but not always 🙃👍
Thanks ever so much for your advice mate! You may be pleased to hear I drove it home in a oner 458 miles back to my glen and it didnt miss a beat! Also it only took just over 3/4 of a tank! Alternator is fine with the two new batteries and all is well mate! Gonna get tore into the tear out this week end! Quite a job! thanks again son God Bless You! Frank.
Where did you go for your Insurance in the end Mel ?
Howdens
Who did you end up getting a good insurance quote with?
Howdens
Who did you insure with as my quote was crazy !!!
howedens
HI MEL CAN YOU PLEASE CONFIRM THE CHEAP INVERTER YOU GOT FROM YOUR FRIDGE VIDEO YOU DID PLEASE AND GREAT VIDEOS THANKS DANNY IN SPAIN.
Which one?
❤
Why have you to leave the barn ???
It turned into a nightmare
Its getting demolished
Why do some people have to be A holes Mel , hey ho , onwards and upwards
The barn has been your life for the past 2 years but now a new adventure begins…. Such a shame though Mel, why do some people have to behave like twats. Good news about the insurance though! … Insurance companies right now seem to be charging ridiculous amounts of money, and I keep hearing of some being quoted stupid money, especially since the Luton Fire…. Fortunately mine only went up £60 this year.
2 weeks ago I was cleaning the roof when the ladder slipped and I hit the ground on my back from 6ft. I ended up in hospital with a cracked hip, two cracks in my spine, and 2 cracked ribs. I’m now thankfully recovering at home with things starting to get a lot easier each day. However we had to cancel a 3 week tour of Ireland from this coming Tuesday, and I lost my £316 ferry fare because I didn’t take out cover at the time of booking… I’m thankful because it could have been a lot worse. Onwards and upwards eh Mel 👍✊🍻
Oh my goodness me I wish you a speedy recovery worst nightmare ever hurting my back I feel your pain 😑👍
I didn't think you had to move out of barn till December
Things took a sinister turn, so we had to leave asap.
Left the barn because we had no choice it turned into a nightmare
What % is to do now Mel ?
Your Painting inside the Doors arnt u ? ,Satin Black?
Potentially
When you move out don't forget to take Becky with you 😂
Don’t worry about that 😂🤣👍
Mel, Your continuing your channel I hope....you had me worried for a while 😦then when your channel went quiet . Obviously something unpleasant happened in the Barn , you leaving when Becky stopped coming too the Barn. Take care 👋🏻🏴glad Dragonfly passed. 👍🏻🏴eventually x
Thank you dragonfly passed yesterday 😃🫶👍
Who did you get insurance withMel please
Howdens
@@BigVanSmallWorld thanks Mel
If things aren't working where you are, just move on.. Or get rid of people out of your life.. 👍 The MOT tester has to test it as you present it. If you say its a camper, it's a camper. That's what the tester told me when I had mine tested and I'd only just lined it out and fitted the bed. 👍
Interesting
I lived in buses and trucks for 12 years, until 1996. Goods vehicles and buses at the time, had to look as though they wouldn't carry goods. To get a PLG mot. The rules were, at the time, bed, cooker, seating, wardrobe, table, water storage for 6 gallons. Not every vehicle that we presented had all of these, but they certainly looked lived in, most had woodstoves, even Rayburns, sofas, etc. They certainly couldn't be used for their intended commercial purpose, so no problem. I took one in, no windows, insulation, just a bed, cooker and woodstove, not long after I bought it.
It's basically down to the testers discretion as to whether or not it's a motor caravan, no ardf or fast rules just guidelines but most want a bed and seating at minimum 🤔 I had the same with my ambulance conversion and that's what all 3 testers at the HGV test centre told me.
When I say storage for six gallons, we used to use the old 5 gallon plastic cans from the car wash fluid, wash them out with hot water, then again, rinse and repeat. Use them for washing water for a while, then promote them for drinking water. I had a big one gallon enamel kettle to decant into. My water cans lived outside. Technically a pair of them are more than six gallons of water storage. It's easier to carry one in each hand partially full, than a full one.
I know you both feel hurt at the moment but it's best for your overall health to not respond to the bullies in the barn with a video. This only gives them, and others, a reason to talk back. You and Rebecca have fun and adventures to look forward to in your van, so go and make fun. People watch the videos to hear about vanlife travels in your "...luxurious over lander". Maybe take a break and then put your energy into what matters. Have loved watching both channels. You and Rebecca are honest and genuine people.
Thank you so very much 🫶
What company did you insurance cover come from
howedens
Who did you use Mel for the insurance mine due very soon. great van but god is it long
Howdens
@SACREDTRAVELLER that's who I use also
howedens
such a shame after such a long time and many people through that it ended like that in the barn but your free now and could see it had dragged u both down x
JT.....
You’re absolutely correct 👍