How to Build a Camper Van Step by Step
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- Опубликовано: 23 июл 2024
- Ultimate Guide How To Build a Sprinter Van Step-by-Step Complete Van Conversion
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First Steps in a Van Conversion Masterclass (Insulation, Framing, Ceiling, Walls, Floor) vankookz-van-conversion-maste...
FREE Step-By-Step Van Conversion Instructional Video Series - www.vankookz.com/diy-ford-tra...
83 Page Step By Step Van Conversion Wiring EBook - www.vankookz.com/shop/van-con...
96 Page EBook - How to Frame Your Van, Install Walls, Ceiling, and Floors - www.vankookz.com/shop/install...
Welcome Back to the Channel! Ya Kookz!
In this episode, we are taking you through the entire process of converting a sprinter van in to a campervan. We've received tons of questions about converting vans so we decided to create a video that addresses all the FAQ of van conversions.
We take you step by step through the entire van conversion project. You will learn with easy and quick explanations how to and in what order to build out your van conversion. This episode is jam-packed with info so get out your paper and pencil and get ready to start planning and executing your van project. We hope this video is helpful. Leave any comments or questions and we will get back to you ASAP. Thanks for watching!
We have added timestamps so you can freely skip to any scene in the video.
Finding a Van - 1:58
Gut, Clean and Paint - 3:13
Plan Layout - 4:45
Cut Holes - 6:38
Wiring - 7:09
Solar Panels: 8:56
Insulation - 9:58
Framing 11:07
Ceiling - 13:38
Interior Walls - 13:51
Bed Frame - 14:11
Lower Cabinets - 15:19
Upper Cabinets - 17:03
Scribing Cabinet Sides - 17:48
Face Frames - 19:40
Countertops - 20:15
Drawers - 20:56
Plumbing - 21:13
Finishing Touches - 21:54
Dani + Kevin
Here are a few of our favorite van conversion toys
Fridge - amzn.to/2wovDx9
Diesel Heater - amzn.to/2uIzox4
Natures Head Composting Toilet - amzn.to/2HWDN25
Lights - amzn.to/38DgLcs
Roof Fan - amzn.to/2UWVTZz
Batteries - amzn.to/2P1c4Bp
Flexible Easy to install Solar Panel - amzn.to/2T9ffIt
Solar Charge Controller - amzn.to/2HuXJZU
Wiring for Lights and USB chargers (Low Draw) - amzn.to/39ElzhN
Wiring for Accessories with more power draw - amzn.to/2UWmm9K
Wiring for Batteries/Battery Isolator - amzn.to/37tdZVO
Battery Isolator - amzn.to/37wQmM9
Distribution Panel aka Fuse Block - amzn.to/37vDi9S
Battery Terminal Kit - amzn.to/37wQtr3
Wiring Kit - amzn.to/2STGUxb
Solar Wiring Entry Gland - amzn.to/2P0bhAV
Thinsulate SM600L 50 Linear Feet - amzn.to/2SwL0vV
Reflectix 50 Sq. Ft.+ amzn.to/2HweS5A
3M 90 Spray Adhesive amzn.to/2vH5SYk
Reflective Duct Tape amzn.to/37zeDkF
Lots of LOVE to you kookz!
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Thank you so much for watching and following along on this Journey!
If you know someone that needs a little extra courage, inspiration, help or encouragement on their build, send them this video! We love answering your questions and comments!
For more build videos or to stay up to date with our journey, make sure to SUBSCRIBE to our channel on RUclips and FOLLOW us on Instagram.
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If you like this video, please give it a THUMBS UP, if you want to keep these types of videos coming. Or if there is something else you want to know, let us know in the comments for what other types of videos you would like to see.
---Share with Us---
INSTAGRAM: @vankookz
vankookz
For more conversion van info and tips check out our website.
www.vankookz.com
IF YOU LIKED THE MUSIC, PLEASE head over to @MDRN_HSRTY channel and instagram. Give them a SUB AND FOLLOW! :)
RUclips: ruclips.net/channel/UC3UE...
INSTAGRAM:
mdrn_hstry
#vanlife #vanconversion #sprintervan 
Хобби
So glad you told people to have an air gap between insulation and panels, a lot of 'expert' youtubers don't do that. 😁
Yeah insulation is sooo controversial you never know what people will say. Thanks for watching!
Glad you mentioned the air gap. I used spacers in the roof insulation to give me that air gap. They are made by the people making insulation.
@@ericprothero6080 did you ever find the spacers? I 'm building out my 1988 chevy van now.
@@ericprothero6080 thank you!
You guys are rock stars! I’ve watched hundreds of build videos in planning for my naked Promaster sitting outside, and you answered questions that no one else has mentioned and I may have skipped over! THANK YOU for this awesome information! This is the layout I already planned on, so it’s very helpful video.
awesome! I am glad it was helpful! We do have a whole build series on our channel if you want more of a days in the life of a DIY van build... Thanks for watching. Let us know if you have any questions! We are happy to help :) Good luck with your build!
hahaha same. I am building out my van now. Did you finish your build?
Great job! It was so nice that you explained the floor planning process and how to properly distribute the weight of various furnishings and appliances. I've watched several of these videos and no one has ever mentioned weight distribution. Thank you for the great tips!
Thanks! Welcome to the vankookz DIY channel we try to have the most informative videos with the least amount of BS 😊
Just bought 170 xt
Starting the build
I have 8 months so I am ready before next winter
YAHOO !@ SO EXCITED
FYI I am retired
68
Me and my 4 dogs are going to fly FPV in every State...
This is so much fun !!
I need your help Kookz, I’m located in Auburn Ca!! Please reach out!!!!
Oh man! We escaped from California. YOu got this!
Hey Kookz, we are back and we hope that this new video really gives you an idea of what type of project you will be getting into with a van build. We hope the narration was helpful! Let us know what you think!
hey ya kookz, thanks!
Looks kool!!! ( heading for Baja again sooner then later) O yeah Masking tape NoT duct tape ;/)
We won't be going down this year :( ... Yes you are correct!
You guys are awesome. Are you building vans for other people? I’m thinking of buying a class b for about $80K but it only sleeps 2 and I need 3 people
Beautiful van build and an excellent step-by-step instruction :)
Thanks
This a great video especially for first time builders. Most will be jealous of the shop and tools you have to work with. I'm starting my second build and I still got some great ideas.
Thanks! You’ll get better and better every build!
I am building my first van now. I am abut 30%. of the way done and I still have so much to do.
Thank you for you video and all the time and patience you've generously donated to become an incredible inspiration , I'm saving up to build my own van next year
Awesome your going to love it and learn so much!
Thank you for that, I watched it a dozen times and after watching van vids for a month it was the most useful I have seen, you make a great team and the vid was very professional and obviously to me very entertaining, so thanks again.
Thanks! We have a lot.more of build content on our website and YT
Great content, I love the simple step by step that give the viewer an understanding of the process and list of the “be mindful of’s”. Thanks so much for all your effort and genuine concern, I will be looking at more of your vids.
Thanks! We hope it helps for your project and makes the build seem more simple
Great video! You hit all of the primary steps in order! Been looking for a video like this for quite a while. Thanks
Thanks 🙏🏼
The “real people” are the ppl who showed up in times of need. your inspiring again sending both of u love and you rock !!
Thanks Jose! Sending the love right back at ya!
Thank you sooo much for all the information and guidance... I totally subscribed after seeing the amount of details here 😄 I have zero experience in building at any level so your next-level demo and info style will make huge difference for me and my transit ;D awesome vids
Awesome! You got this. We will also have more transit videos coming soon.
OMG. My new favourite van build. Now to go back to the start and watch them all.
Thanks!
Smart and SUPER helpful advice. Gracias!
I'm building out my 1988 chevy van now and I love all the info in this video. I am about 30% of the way done and have so much more to go. Cheers!
Awesome! Enjoy the Journey!
Great job, Kookz! I’ve missed you guys.
Thanks! we've missed you @SC Nomad!
It's the most solid and most beautiful van build I watched so far. You guys are awesome.
Thanks dude! We really appreciate that:
Great information 👏.
Looking forward to the build series.
Definitely a thumbs up 👍
Thanks 😊
Dani & Kevin,
This was an outstanding video 😄👍👍 !!! Informative, well presented, and very interesting to watch and listen to!! Great job 😆😆✌️✌️ !! Thanks👍👍 !!!!
Thanks! Glad we could help!
Nice detail and great ideas, thanks you two 👍
Thanks for the video. This is the most professional van conversion I have ever seen on RUclips. Fabulous job. My latest conversion is a Renault Trafic LWB van into a "Touring Van". We don't sleep in the van but use it for trips around Australia and stop for a cup of tea or coffee in nice spots. We sleep in Caravan Park cabins. This is the fourth van I have done in the last 30 years ( I am 80 now). Our van setup is removable in 15 minutes in case we need to fit facilities for a gopher. Thanks again for giving me inspiration to do more in our van.
That’s amazing! 4 vans in 30 years you’re livin life right buddy! We lived in Australia for a year and loved it. Nicest beaches we’ve ever been to. We miss it
Yes, Australia is a great place to live. We never slept in our vans but used them as our daily and holiday vehicles.
80 that's awesome.are u still driving.i hope I can when I'm 80.whats your diet.going to buy me a good van and convert soon I'm 67
Hi Raymond. Thanks for the reply. Yes, I am still driving. I enjoy working on vans. I am waiting for a nice electric van to come on the market in Australia. I hope you find a good van. I will be interested in seeing your conversion.
100% Best How to Build step by step video on RUclips!!! Cheers! Thank you
Thanks! Share with your friends! We got more coming!
@@Vankookz done ✔️
Excellent work guys, I congratulate you. They both work very professionally and explain the process very well. Greetings from Austin, Texas.
Thanks 🙏 dude good luck with the project
I know you two took great care doing these videos .😎 Well Done you guys .It was hard once then go back and talk about each step had to be the best part !
again great job Guys Well done ! Thanks for the share !
Thanks for the love ❤️ and they good vibes!
Thanks again. You have a new subscriber. I am looking forward to seeing all your videos.
Thanks for watching and welcome to the channel.
Your van looks amazing. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Our pleasure! Thanks for watching we are glad we can help!
Thanks, will take my time on my van
Just found your channel with this video.... you two look awesomely cool and informative and skilled! Subscribed!!
Thanks for the sub! Stay tuned for more van videos
Lovely well done 👏
Thank you!
This is dopeeeee thank you both!!!!
Thanks 🙏
Great content! Love the step by step... I needed that! The ADD in me gets so lost planning. 🤔🤤🙃🐿
Thanks so glad it was helpful that’s what we are here for
Gorgeous van build! Well done 👍
Thanks!
Beautiful van & very instructional video.
Thanks Len! There should be more where that is coming from. We have a client build this fall we will be documenting as well.
Nice..both of you are genius..
We'll take that! Thanks!
Thank you for the video!
Hope it helps! Happy building! Check www.vankookz.com for more
Thank you for doing this !
No problem 😊 Hope it helps
Beautiful job...Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching!
One of the first van conversion videos that mentions considering weight distribution. Cheers! 🇦🇺
Yup. You know...
Great video 😃
Thanks 😊
Great work👍
Thanks 😊
This is how i like to learn show and tell. Im also watching figuring out where the water tanks go
Check us out online we have heaps of Van Conversion info. www.vankookz.com
Great video.
Glad you enjoyed it
Awesome video. Thanks guys
Thanks for watching!
I love how organized you guys are..... 😊
Thanks 🙏
right!? I am getting down so many ideas for my build.
Great video thank you!!!!
Yeah happy building!
Nice van, and your tools are awesome! If I had the half of theses tools, my van build could be easier! Good job!
Yes working at the shop makes it easier but it’s still a lot of work no matter how you do it. Happy Building
you two are amazingly talented....and patient:)
Thanks Craig we appreciate that. 🙏
I like your work😍
Glad it helped! Happy Building
Thank you so much for posting this! Im gonna build out a van this year :))
Awesome dude! Check back for more build videos.
Did you get your van? I am building mine out now too! It makes me so excited when I see people getting their vans too.
Great video thank you
Glad it helped! Thanks for watching!
Good info!!! thanks
Thanks for watching!
Beautiful biild❣
Thank you! 😊
Hey Kookz great job! Loved the detail that went into this build. Could you share where you got the bed hinges from? I'm on my 4th build out on my Sprinter and love the rock n roll style of bed!
We pulled it off an old RV at a pick and pull I’m sure you can find them on amazon
I am working on building my bed frame now. Did you ever find them on amazon?
"Put on your scribing pants"...love it
We love a nice pair of scribing pants!
This is what Im GONNA WANNA do
That's the spirit!
Crazy ideas
Frame in rear of van with windows and counter so I can leave rear doors open for max ventilation and security
Frame slider opening with French doors and windows
So fun. !!
Sounds amazing you gotta share it with us when you are done @vankookz!
Nice thanks
Thank you too!
a wonderful built me getting ready to build my own I just hope comes out half good than your i will be very happy
You will do a good job! We have plenty of information on our website www.vankookz.com
you guys awesome one question could you have used a lighter metal for framing like alloy
much lighter more expensive tho
Yeah you definitely can. We are about to do a build series with quick easy wood cabinets. Although the metal is superior to the wood and so much cleaner. Thanks!
To much work for me 😂 great job 👏
Just FYI most welders can weld sheet metal so if you make a mistake it's possible to weld that pieces you cut out of the roof with some patience and some grinding at the end to make the welds flush with the rest of the roof, and maybe some bondo right before you paint. or just take it to a fabrication shop and they will weld it for you
Yeah it’s amazing what you can do these days. We had to meld some sheet metal to our current van we cut a bunch of rust out
Love the video. Very helpful. I watched it twice and must have missed any step on flooring. At what point do you insulate and finish the floor?
We like to do the flooring pretty close to last otherwise you risk ruining it during the construction. Insulate the floor before you install your subfloor
@@Vankookz thank you!!
great video guys, I was wondering if you had a link for the bed/sofa mechanism.
cheers Ken from Australia
Thanks! Yeah we actaully got it off an old RV but this may do the trick its on Amazon so it's probably US only but this may help.
@@Vankookz thanks heaps
Love your NASA shirt. Outstanding video.
Thank you!
Awesome work, congrats and thanks for sharing!
Thank you! Cheers!
What has been your go to method for keeping drawers shut? The push button catches seem like the plastic would be subject to wear and tear, especially in rougher areas like baja.
The push button patches are actually pretty legit we’ve used a few products and those seem to work and hold up pretty good. If you don’t mind the look barrel locks and sash locks are the best to keep the heavy duty stuff closed. We’ve also used a few magnetic latches. All depends on how heavy the drawer is
Hello. I love your dedications, hardwork and your creativity. Your builds are creative.
Im on a “planning stages” on building myself my van conversion.
So many ways, styles, and how to video ive seen.
First concerning issue. Your build materials using, wood, metals, woods, plywoods. Seems to be a bit of added weights to the van.
You mind asking after all the builds. How much weight total the van end up?
As for me using the van as my daily driver, mini home. Gas mileage is a big factor.
These vans are designed to hold weight this van was a 3500 diesel with a payload over 9000lbs we haven't even come close overloading these vehicles. Our current van that we have lived in for almost 5 years is just under its recommended payload and we have had to upgrade some suspension and other front end parts. This is a good thing to think about before your build but just remember these vans were designed to be loaded up and used as heavy duty work vehicles.
Those are damned gorgeous dreads!
Thank you
Kudos!!! :)))
Thanks Zuri!
Great vid! btw, I legit counted over 15 "gonna wannas" :D
Thanks! There's a lot of stuff you are gonna wanna do to make it happen 😆
How did you do your floor?. It looks like you used 1 inch insulation than 1/2, plywood. How did you hold the plywood down
We used the reflectix and then the existing van floor it was in good condition still. We used self tapping screws to hold it down. Always triple check where you are drilling and use lap sealant to cover the screw holes underneath.
Which video explains how to do the floors? I can’t find it except for on the time lapse vid
The floors are pretty straight forward. We just make a template with cardboard and lay it in there. Or we use the existing floor to cut a new template out of 3/4" ply and glue it in there. Then we will lay down either a laminate or a vinyl floor.
Once you have your van, how much did it cost to build it all out? I saw some conversation kits that was 30k thoughts?
Around 10-12k for a larger sprinter van.
Yes it would be easier if we had that shop
Oh yes it is. We built a few vans out of a garage and this was a game changer!
Wiring before or after vapor barrier? Meaning wiring in the metal of the van before insulation or between 1X3” frame and vapor barrier? Did you find one way to be simpler?
Wiring after framing is easier I think…
Currently doing my insulation - so it’s ok for the reflectix to touch the metal of the van ??
This video has more info for insulation
ruclips.net/video/yrievmspBO8/видео.html
@@Vankookz Bless! lol thank you!
Hi Great van build....Just wondering on the black soft anti mold insulation you guy's used. Can you please type it out to me in a message respond to me, listening to how you say it. I been trying to spell it but no luck in getting any results. Here in Aus we word things differently I have never seen that insulation in roll form.
Much appreciated.
They use 3M Thinsulate insulation. I'm from Holland and over here it's not sold either. Hope you can find it! Other good alternatives are denimwool, sheepswool, polyesterwool (these are also eco-friendly so that's a nice bonus).
@@MultiPJoys ok thanks for that
Hey guys yes it’s Thinsulate it’s a great product sad to hear they don’t have it over seas
Wonderful!,...... Question... you said paint black to stop rust. Confused me. Just black paint? And painting what parts?
We used raptor bed liner to paint the lower exterior and roof because we had rust spots. The bedliner works great and is easy to apply. We have more in depth videos on our page for painting your van.
great question!
Hey!! Halfway through the video haha but I have a question! Did y’all make pilot holes in the van before framing? Or do you use the holes already there? Thank you!!!!
Use self tapping screws and a impact driver. Works every time
Van Kookz gotcha, thank you so much!! I appreciate it!
No problem we are here to help.
No problems with self tapping vibrating loose? That would concern me but that sure is sure easier than rivnuts. For others reading the comments: Self tapping screws are super easy to strip out so be very careful with them. I would suggest you practice on an inconspicuous spot first so you can fine tune your "touch".
Gonna wanna
Yup.... You are gonna wanna get ready to do a lot of work. So your gonna wanna watch this video again 😆
@@Vankookz lol
What is the tubular metal and L's you used? Steel? Aluminum? How is the weight compared to other options?
1/2” square, and 1/2” angle iron. Way lighter way stronger! Wish I had the time to do this on every van I built.
does the reflectix add to the rattle noise? I'm thinking the foam board would and no rattle noise is another benefit of the thinsulate
No it’s very lightweight
@@Vankookz yep, great weight and vapor barrier....wasn't sure if you'd get a little krinkling noise.
Not that we’ve noticed
Hello vankookz, I'm from Nigeria, I'm interested in pursuing a career in van life, how do I get started??
Awesome! Just get started however you can whether you have a car or a backpack just start living nomadic and you will figure it all out. Also we have lots of info on our website www.vankookz.com Thanks for watching
shouldnt the air gap be between the steel walls and the reflectix
Either or is fine. Just gotta have one. Air is a great insulator
Can you guys hire to build an autodome?
We aren’t sure what an autodome is but it sounds interesting
What you’re gonna wanna do is you’re gonna wanna… you’re gonna wanna … 🤯🤯🤯
Yup.... There's a lot of shit to do. So you're gonna wanna get ready to make it happen.
Finally the kookz are back! Very engaging and entertaining video! I wish I had a video like this before I started building. Some of the timelapse and build footage has so many little details, like what connectors to use at the fuse panel, different ways to attach solar panels, different van builds... I could see. my self watching this over and over if it were around when I built mine.
Thanks! That's exactly what we are going for. We were gone for a minute, but we are back!
I was wondering if you registered your van as an RV? And if so how did you do that?
Yes we have registered many vans as RV or motorhomes as some states call them. You need to go to the DMV and show them that you have a sink, toilet, and a bed and they will switch your registration to a motorhome.
@@Vankookz oh it sounds so easy! Here in Ontario you need to go through multiple inspections and it seems so confusing 😅
Great video, need ur advice, which one has high top, 4 sleepers, best engine, best price and gasoline savings
How much cost convert and how can I find someone help me in converting affordable
Hey M B thanks for watching!
ruclips.net/video/v2RcLdwSnMg/видео.html
Funny you ask, we just compared two of the most popular high tops, in this video. Keep in mind they are comparing the brand new 2020s off the lot. And they are comparing off road features as well. So for the sprinter remove $13,800 if 4x4 isn’t your thing. For the gas powered transit remove $6,000 if AWD isn’t your thing.
As far as cheap conversions go, on our website, we have a budget sheet. (Www.vankookz.com) We do them for every van we have built. We have build vans ranging from budget minimal builds to a little more luxury. That budget sheet should give you an idea about what you might expect to spend on a build (if you DIY).
The components (fridge, batteries, solar, sink, etc.) that you need to build out a van can be done around $8-10k. I’ve seen some get up to $28k on top of the build. If you want some one else to build it, plan to add an extra $15k-25k for the labor, on top of your build components. This is why we try to help people do it themselves with these videos. But check back with us, we may be working with kookz soon to build out their vans affordable, as we have gotten plenty of interest from the viewers on it!
I JUST WANT TO LIVE IN A VANNNNN
You got it! Just start within your budget. Live in it get a job, don't pay rent, keep your cost down and work your way up. That's what we did.
Beautiful , nice , amazing piece of art ... BUT where is the shower ? And too much heavy furniture
Thanks dude! It’s a dually so it can handle the weight it was well under.
" Gonna wanna" .".gonna wanna.." ...you said it like 1000 times in this video
Well get ready... You're gonna wanna do a lot to get the job done!
sounds like she did everything
Bet you wish your lady could do it all too.
Thanks. Nice. Did you ditch your bikes?
No we built this van to sell it. You could
Put bikes on the hitch
The only thing this taught me is there's no chance in hell I can convert a van.
You got this!
@@Vankookz You guys are welding doing full cabinet making and bending pipes over there.
I could never learn to do this.
Not with the attitude... You got this! We know you can do it!
@@Vankookz I’m not good with construction. Never really built anything
you can do it if you try!
who needs that much counter space, are you a traveling chef??
We are traveler’s who like to chef it up 👩🍳
How much would it be just to buy one already converted
Depends on your budget we have one ready to go right now
@@Vankookz how much?
@@jkm7983 This one is we are currently sitting in talking about is $44, 500. It's a stealth campervan, 5 cyl diesel, with 100K miles on it. It's registered as a motorhome, so you can insure it as one and save money on insurance prices and protect your investment. (If you are looking for a van that is already built out, you will want to ask if it is registered and titled as a motorhome, or do it yourself. If you get in a wreck, they will only cover the price of the vehicle, empty) It has never been lived in. The build out is all brand new, like a new home.
Van Kookz however, cops will run the plates in CA and you get ticketed for parking it in many cities, keep that in mind, I kept mine as commercial so I can roll double stealth !
I think I can do most of the work, but welding. 😅😭😭
You don't have to weld we are going to be coming out with more content soon