We have enjoyed RVing over the years, but lost our last RV in a highway crunch.
One thing we did not enjoy about RVing was the 10 mpg gas bills and the 2 lbs per mile of CO2 emissions. So, this project is about getting back into RVing with a smaller footprint.
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| The RAM ProMaster 1500, hi roof, 136 WB at start of conversion |
Objectives for the new van conversion:
- Keep it simple
- An open feel inside
- 20+ mpg
- Comfortable beds for 2
- No need for hookups
- Drives like a car
- Able to handle some back roads
The RAM ProMaster we bought for the conversion is a high roof, 1500, 136 WB. This gives us an area to work with of about 10.1 ft long by 6.5 ft wide (behind the driver/passenger seats). The inside height is about 76 inches. A really Tiny House :)
It was the smallest and lightest vehicle we could find that we think will also provide enough space and stand up height.
Just as an aside, it would be very interesting to see what could be done with an even smaller vehicle -- maybe something like the Ford Transit Connect -- a 30 mpg RV!
So, this is going to be a several month project, and I'm just going to be adding to it as things go along.
I'd very much like to hear ideas, comments, and suggestions that we might be able to incorporate as things progress.
I've put up a new section on BuildItSolar with pages for each major part of the conversion: layout, insulation, paneling, flooring, electrical system, ... The main page for the conversion is here...
Progress so far...
Layout:
We have pretty much decided on this layout:
We did a very crude mockup of this layout in the van:
The two beds are in the back and make into a seating area during the day, galley is on right behind drivers seat. There will be some more storage cabinets around the edge up high. New windows will be added in 3 or 4 locations (about where the blue tape is).
We like this nice open feel of this and the high quality beds.
More on other layouts we considered...
Insulation:
Did the insulation of the walls and ceiling using spray foam polyurethane insulation. I used one of the two component kits that provide the two pressurized bottles and spray nozzle and hoses.
Had never used one of these kits before, but it worked out pretty well.
All the details on insulating here...
Electrical:
I've been working on the electrical system design.
Its a bit more complicated than I would like in that we want to be able to spend a couple days (or more) away from hookups. It has a fairly large battery and the battery can be charged via solar (on the roof), the van alternator, or from shore power.
I've worked out a tentative list of components.
Would appreciate any comments on the design or the components.
Floor:
Today's project is the floor.
I've put up a new section on BuildItSolar with pages for each major part of the conversion: layout, insulation, paneling, flooring, electrical system, ... The main page for the conversion is here...
Gary July 22, 2014
