Well done!!!! I almost cried at the end. I learned a lot, I'm entertaining the idea of converting a connect. You guys made me realize that I didn't know the first thing about conversions. Thank you for putting this video together.
Beyond inspiring! This is heavenly. Both of you worked so hard, it was an amazing, disciplined and wonderful transformation. Just when I thought I'd settled on a PMC, you had to put this vid out, ha! The hatch door is so nice against rain and sun, a wonderful place to cook. Really enjoyed the thoughtful placing of water tank. Going to watch the full tour now. One thing, being a safety minded PA-C: please wear appropriate footwear when handling power tools! Kudos and cheers from Albuquerque, NM 😃
Thank you!! The hatch door is GREAT!! There’s a lot you can do with it. We were really excited when we saw all the space and we knew the tanks should be place there. Hahah thank you for your concern and you’re absolutely right! 😉
I can understand your concern with footwear since I am now a mother. 🙂 But we grew up wearing shoes to church or to go to town. Otherwise we were barefoot and there was always some kind of building project going on 😆🤦🏼♀️
Your build looks light years better than mine. I like having the option of using my van as an actual van sometimes though. So, I set mine up so that I can remove everything within 10 minutes... even the flooring. I can put everything back just as quick. The solar setup and diesel heater is the only thing that I leave inside since they aren't really in the way.
I've never seen anyone get a sub-floor in a Connect before. You guys are really skilled craftsmen. The only thing I would have done different is leave out the skylight. Just another hole in the roof that will eventually leak.
Thank you! About all the holes you might put in the van, just make sure to check the sealant at least once a year and apply more if nessesary. Regular maintenance for any RV.
Very nice build. How much weight did you add? Especially if your water tanks are full? 4 cylinders have a reputation for chugging up hill. What does the weight do to your gas mileage?
Not that much weight was added. When you are full on water, it's less than 200lbs. Overall still less weight in the van than if you had a car full of people in the passenger version of these vans.
Very professional job. I was just curious about the water tanks and pump installation. It doesn't seem like it would be very accessible if you had to repair a leak or service the pump, without having to tear up the flooring.
Thankfully it is build with that in mind. The water system is build to be service free and last a very long time. The changeable water filter is located under the sink.
Can you explain what holds up the slide out bed on the side closest to the kitchen? By the way, I’ve looked at probably 100 builds of this van, and you guys nailed it. I’m likely going to build the one with the dual swinging doors, but other than that, I’m going to build as much like yours as I can. Great job!
Thank you for the feedback! when the bed is open it is held by the heavy duty slides, plus is supported by resting on top of the kitchen drawer face panels. Watch the van tour for more details.
Haven’t got all the way through the video yet.. very impressed so far, but how do you plan on removing the water tanks for servicing/cleaning? I would highly recommend cleaning the tanks on at least a yearly basis. Uncleaned tanks can build up with biofilm which can cause infection in the body if not careful. Please look into it and be safe
Hi from over here in UK. Great build, keep going back to your videos. We have a VW Maxi Caddy, tad smaller all round, but your design has us think. I Perhaps I've missed it in the electrics. Do you have a split charge or are you running the build just from the solar?
The spacers were made of aluminum and nylon, with rubber washers. Use silicon caulk on the threads of the bolts, and you should get a quick custom roof rails! Perfect for solar panel mounting.
Very impressive... After watching this video it's painfully obvious to me how ignorant I am concerning camper van builds... I am based in north Queensland Australia and live/travel in my modest VW crafter campervan, which could do with an upgrade... What part of the planet are you guys based ?...
Great build!!!!!!!! I have a question 🙋♀️ can a larger “fixed” bed be put into a connect? Like a full size bed? Yet still allow space at the “foot” for a toilet to slide from under the bed and or room to put your feet on the floor to get dressed?
A fixed bed is very possible if all accessories are stored under the bed as pull-out options. Our preference is to the sit up in the van to use the interior as a work space or other activities rather than just sleeping.
Was this a cargo base or the passenger base? I'm still not sure which one is best to build on and the differences between them as buildout goes. Meaning structural differences in the rear cabin/ceiling etc.. I think I might just get the passenger style but I assume it's a bit more complicated to build out vs the bare bones cargo
Incredible build! What is this bed type called, I’m starting my conversion but still on the fan and solar part of it all and I was thinking about doing a slide out bench/bed until seeing this🥇 just incredible! Would love to know what it’s called so I can try doing this to my own rig. Cheers and safe travels you two!
I’m so torn between the 2013 and younger as opposed to 2014 and up b cause of the back doors. 2013 version opens wide and sideways so you can set up shower system outside but 2014 and up the hatchback door opens upward to make a really useful sun/rain canopy. The 2013 and younger appears to have like 4 inches or more of headroom so I’m gearing towards that
The newer ones also have the regular cargo doors, which is standard for cargo vans. Yes, the only down side of the newer ones is the lower roof, wish they made them taller.
I gotta say Daniel that skylight dome is pretty cool . I know you can’t open it but gave me an idea about the taller connect and how I could make it so I could stand up . I researched boat skylight hatches like 24 inches wide and that would accommodate my 5’7” stature but only weather permitting and they are so expensive. A taller dome may accommodate me standing in any weather. Thanks for the inspiration
Hey guys! Love the video and the conversion - Top job! I've got a quick question - How tall are you both? I'm 6'2 and wondering if a conversion like this would allow me to sit up straight, in the back of the van, without having to be hunched over all the time? Any advise about this would be great!
Thank you! You would not be able to sit perfectly straight up. If you would like to be able to do that, I would recommend getting a Ford transit low roof short wheel base.
I can't decide between a Maxx fan or a roof hatch that opens up with a clip fan. Could I power the Maxx fan to my van starter battery? And how long would that run it for
This took us a month to build and costed $17.5k for just the build and materials/products. It definitely can be hard if you don’t have the skills. We would love to build you one! Submit a form through our website and we will contact you! www.smallvansbigworld.com/guest-form
Approximately 17.5k for this "fully loaded" build. Fill out the form to get custom quote with the options that you want in yours at www.smallvansbigworld.com/guest-form
The attention to details is absolutely amazing! Love how clean everything looks!
Well done!!!! I almost cried at the end. I learned a lot, I'm entertaining the idea of converting a connect. You guys made me realize that I didn't know the first thing about conversions. Thank you for putting this video together.
Hello you 2 I have been building small campers for a long time. This is one of the best self builds I have seen. Well done..
Wow, thank you!
That water tank build is epic!
I think that's the most stylish and practical conversion of a Connect that I have seen. Well done!
Thank you! :)
Look at you hardworkers. Your Mamas must be proud!!! Keep up the good work fam!!!
Thanks Hannah! ☺️
God Bless You All , For taking Me through Your Beautiful Van Build . Great job !
Amazing build I never thought a transit could work ..for even one ..much less 2 people well done
Even with all those things in the back you still managed to make it so roomy! This would be so perfect for any road trip💁🏼♀️
That is the goal with our builds. Thanks for your comment! 🤗
The quality of your work is exceptional! Very impressive. Keep on keeping on!
Thank you!!
I was wondering how would I manage and this video gave me so much hope and more thank You
Love your hard work. You should consider opening a business turning this vehicle into custom camper van. Enjoy
I just got the same van,,would love to make it a camper,,,looks great
Congrats! Welcome to the van life world!
Beyond inspiring! This is heavenly. Both of you worked so hard, it was an amazing, disciplined and wonderful transformation. Just when I thought I'd settled on a PMC, you had to put this vid out, ha! The hatch door is so nice against rain and sun, a wonderful place to cook. Really enjoyed the thoughtful placing of water tank.
Going to watch the full tour now. One thing, being a safety minded PA-C: please wear appropriate footwear when handling power tools! Kudos and cheers from Albuquerque, NM 😃
Thank you!! The hatch door is GREAT!! There’s a lot you can do with it. We were really excited when we saw all the space and we knew the tanks should be place there.
Hahah thank you for your concern and you’re absolutely right! 😉
I can understand your concern with footwear since I am now a mother. 🙂
But we grew up wearing shoes to church or to go to town. Otherwise we were barefoot and there was always some kind of building project going on 😆🤦🏼♀️
The best design for transit connect ever
Thank you!!
I can't wait for the day I get to take a trip in one of these vans!
We can’t wait for the day we get to build you one! 🤗
You guys build better than Winnebago or Roadtrek. I can see you expsnding you business!
Wow! Thanks so much, what a compliment 🤗
That is such a great build. You guys are awesome! I wouldn't mind having something like this as a weekend adventure van. Great job!
Thanks so much!
Well thought out design. Only think I would change is more access to the water tanks, incase there is a leak or something.
I'm not sure if it was mentioned in the video but we did put an access panel to have access. 🤗
Good Build. Thank you for showing the sub floor compartment. Have a good journey. :)
Thanks, you too!
Nice fit out for a mini van
I think so too!
What a beautiful build! 😊 Excellent job! I learned some things that will be very helpful in my own build someday.
Christina and Daniel. Some great ideas and well presented video.👏👏 Liked and subscribed. Enjoy your creation....🚐👏👏☘
Quality, superbly done, thankyou for sharing.
Your build looks light years better than mine. I like having the option of using my van as an actual van sometimes though. So, I set mine up so that I can remove everything within 10 minutes... even the flooring. I can put everything back just as quick. The solar setup and diesel heater is the only thing that I leave inside since they aren't really in the way.
That's awesome! That is actually how we built our personal van as well. Great for work and for travel. :)
This is incredible attention to detail
Thank you!
Would love to see in-depth how you guys constructed the bed/sofa!
Very nice work you two. Your a nice couple also I can tell
Nice build
Nice build!! Enjoyed the video
excellent. i'll be using some of your ideas, ok?
WOW! Excellent video. Happy Trails! :-)
GREAT job! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for your comment! 🤗
nice job you two did--team work, take care /be safe
Thank you Bob!
I've never seen anyone get a sub-floor in a Connect before. You guys are really skilled craftsmen. The only thing I would have done different is leave out the skylight. Just another hole in the roof that will eventually leak.
Thank you!
About all the holes you might put in the van, just make sure to check the sealant at least once a year and apply more if nessesary. Regular maintenance for any RV.
Love this ❤ Can I hire you 🤣 For real!!!
Absolutely you can. Fill out the guest form here:
www.smallvansbigworld.com/guest-form
Прекрасная работа!!!!
Complimenti ragazzi, avete fatto un lavoro stupendo.
Very nice build. How much weight did you add? Especially if your water tanks are full? 4 cylinders have a reputation for chugging up hill. What does the weight do to your gas mileage?
Not that much weight was added. When you are full on water, it's less than 200lbs. Overall still less weight in the van than if you had a car full of people in the passenger version of these vans.
Saludos. Espero se encuentren bien. Lo felicito 👏. Me gustaría mas reproducirlo normal y por partes. Mucha salud para ustedes. 🙏
Wow. Best one yet
Very professional job. I was just curious about the water tanks and pump installation. It doesn't seem like it would be very accessible if you had to repair a leak or service the pump, without having to tear up the flooring.
Thankfully it is build with that in mind. The water system is build to be service free and last a very long time. The changeable water filter is located under the sink.
Very cute build!! Great job.
I was going to tell you nice job, but everyone summed it up
Haha I appreciate the comment!
😳😳 that is awesome!!!!!!
Thank you! We were actually thinking this would be great for you and your husband. Just let me know if you want us to build you one 😉
Can you explain what holds up the slide out bed on the side closest to the kitchen? By the way, I’ve looked at probably 100 builds of this van, and you guys nailed it. I’m likely going to build the one with the dual swinging doors, but other than that, I’m going to build as much like yours as I can. Great job!
Thank you for the feedback! when the bed is open it is held by the heavy duty slides, plus is supported by resting on top of the kitchen drawer face panels. Watch the van tour for more details.
Nice build!
Thank you!!! :)
Freaking mesmerising. Love the video, love the design.
Thank you!!
Haven’t got all the way through the video yet.. very impressed so far, but how do you plan on removing the water tanks for servicing/cleaning? I would highly recommend cleaning the tanks on at least a yearly basis. Uncleaned tanks can build up with biofilm which can cause infection in the body if not careful. Please look into it and be safe
Brilliant! Nice skills.
круто,молодцы ребята!👍👍
Nice job, looks great.
WOW !! Impressive. I will look for you on my van build, please be around . Great Work !!! 💗🚐👍
Thank you! Looking forward to be working with you in the future :)
Awesome build.... Subscribed :)
Great Conversion and Video.
Thanks!
Love it.
Very cool.
This is awesome
Really well thought out
Thank you!
Love this build. Amazing 👌🏻👍🏻
Thank you! 😁
get to know you from Bilibili.Someone reposted this video on it.Thx for shraring.
That’s awesome!
Hi guys, i like your build van, nice video 👍
Great job😍👍👍👍
Amazing conversion! How can I do that to my Ford Transit Connect XLT. I love everything you did!
Thank you!!
If you are interested in building with us, fill out the guest form and we will be in touch with you!
www.smallvansbigworld.com/guest-form
Hi from over here in UK. Great build, keep going back to your videos. We have a VW Maxi Caddy, tad smaller all round, but your design has us think. I Perhaps I've missed it in the electrics. Do you have a split charge or are you running the build just from the solar?
Hello! The battery gets charged from the solar along with the alternator
Did you buy it as a wagon or a cargo van? You seem to have installed the water tanks in the foot area of where the rear wagon seats may have been.
Is it a cargo van, and that is correct.
I like the subfloor water tanks. But the diesel heater air outlet is very bad located.
I like the extruded aluminum channels you bolted to the roof. What did you use for spacers?
The spacers were made of aluminum and nylon, with rubber washers. Use silicon caulk on the threads of the bolts, and you should get a quick custom roof rails! Perfect for solar panel mounting.
Very impressive... After watching this video it's painfully obvious to me how ignorant I am concerning camper van builds... I am based in north Queensland Australia and live/travel in my modest VW crafter campervan, which could do with an upgrade... What part of the planet are you guys based ?...
America.
Awesome I will do the same
When I saw the bubble i thought -Oh going stealth
Adding windows -Ok not that much lol
Having the skylight would be a great way to have a stealth van minus the side windows!
Просто супер!!! 👍
Thanks for sharing
Very nice good job
Can you do the same thing with the passenger one? Or will there be less room?
If the additional windows dont bother you, a very similar build can be done in the passenger one.
Great build!!!!!!!! I have a question 🙋♀️ can a larger “fixed” bed be put into a connect? Like a full size bed? Yet still allow space at the “foot” for a toilet to slide from under the bed and or room to put your feet on the floor to get dressed?
A fixed bed is very possible if all accessories are stored under the bed as pull-out options. Our preference is to the sit up in the van to use the interior as a work space or other activities rather than just sleeping.
I only guessed, if you spend so much money with materials and so much time, how about buy one with things ready to go?...wondering.thumd up 👍💥
Was this a cargo base or the passenger base? I'm still not sure which one is best to build on and the differences between them as buildout goes. Meaning structural differences in the rear cabin/ceiling etc..
I think I might just get the passenger style but I assume it's a bit more complicated to build out vs the bare bones cargo
Good job
Would have been better if you hadn't shown the finished product at the start.
But, still a great video.
nice build. may I ask where you got your 2 water tanks?
Nice work amazing
Thank you!! :)
Incredible build! What is this bed type called, I’m starting my conversion but still on the fan and solar part of it all and I was thinking about doing a slide out bench/bed until seeing this🥇 just incredible! Would love to know what it’s called so I can try doing this to my own rig. Cheers and safe travels you two!
Oh and, after one video you definitely got a subscriber out of me haha much love guys
Awesome
Thank you!!
I’m so torn between the 2013 and younger as opposed to 2014 and up b cause of the back doors. 2013 version opens wide and sideways so you can set up shower system outside but 2014 and up the hatchback door opens upward to make a really useful sun/rain canopy. The 2013 and younger appears to have like 4 inches or more of headroom so I’m gearing towards that
The newer ones also have the regular cargo doors, which is standard for cargo vans. Yes, the only down side of the newer ones is the lower roof, wish they made them taller.
I gotta say Daniel that skylight dome is pretty cool . I know you can’t open it but gave me an idea about the taller connect and how I could make it so I could stand up . I researched boat skylight hatches like 24 inches wide and that would accommodate my 5’7” stature but only weather permitting and they are so expensive. A taller dome may accommodate me standing in any weather. Thanks for the inspiration
Sehr schön
Gran bel lavoro
Thank
Hello, this is a great build. Just wanted to ask, where can I get those specific water tanks?
Classacustoms
THUMB UP
Are you not sealing the rooftop skylight and fan?! It looks like you just screwed them down without any leak prevention stuff.
Of course we have sealed it all. 😊
Hey guys! Love the video and the conversion - Top job!
I've got a quick question - How tall are you both? I'm 6'2 and wondering if a conversion like this would allow me to sit up straight, in the back of the van, without having to be hunched over all the time?
Any advise about this would be great!
Thank you! You would not be able to sit perfectly straight up. If you would like to be able to do that, I would recommend getting a Ford transit low roof short wheel base.
Great
do you guys have a link for the roof bubble? thats really impressive
On amazon or at icondirect dot com you can find the one we used and more options.
how many extra inches of depth is that sub floor at the front of the cargo space?
Nicely done:) How big are the 2 water tanks you added?
Thank you! Each tank was 7 gallons so in total it was 14 gallons
Just a question.. those screw holes and raw edges on top and on the side of the van, will they rust eventually?
Any cuts and screw holes get rust prevention, primer and paint, so no raw metal remains exposed to the elements.
👍👍👍
I can't decide between a Maxx fan or a roof hatch that opens up with a clip fan. Could I power the Maxx fan to my van starter battery? And how long would that run it for
How much did that cost you? And how long did it take? I had bought a van- but traded it in- the work was to hard and to expensive for a nurse 😳
This took us a month to build and costed $17.5k for just the build and materials/products. It definitely can be hard if you don’t have the skills. We would love to build you one! Submit a form through our website and we will contact you!
www.smallvansbigworld.com/guest-form
This was built for a nurse 😉😁
Just wondering. How much would you charge for a similar build?
Approximately 17.5k for this "fully loaded" build. Fill out the form to get custom quote with the options that you want in yours at www.smallvansbigworld.com/guest-form