The Mercedes Sprinter Camper Van Conversion – Full Build Series, hosted by Greg Virgoe, aims to guide viewers through the process of transforming a panel van into a fully equipped, off-grid race van or camper van. Each stage of the conversion will be covered in separate videos, delving into topics such as wiring, insulation, window fitting, furniture construction, plumbing, gas installation, solar power, and lighting. The series promises to provide detailed instructions and insights, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in embarking on a similar project. Throughout the journey, viewers will have the opportunity to download a copy of the concept design from the 3D warehouse and contribute to the funding of future videos through donations. Whether you are a van life enthusiast, a tiny home lover, or simply curious about the process of converting a van, this series holds the potential to offer useful and engaging content.
In this introductory video, Greg Virgoe presents the starting point of the project – an 8-year-old Mercedes Sprinter panel van in excellent condition. He shares his design plans using Sketchup, highlighting the goal of creating an L-shaped seating area at the front of the van, a kitchen unit with a sink and double burner cooker, a wet room with a shower and toilet, and a garage space at the back for bicycles. Greg outlines upcoming stages including the installation of new windows for the living area, fitting ventilation fans in the roof, and incorporating solar panels for off-grid capabilities. With a focus on high-quality materials and detailed plans, Greg provides insights into the construction of the interior, offering a glimpse into the functionality and comfort of the finished camper van.
Cutting Windows into the Van
Front panels and door
When converting a van into a camper, it is essential to consider adding windows for natural light and ventilation. Cutting windows into the front panels and door of the van offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows the driver and passengers to enjoy the beautiful views while on the road. Additionally, it creates a sense of openness and spaciousness within the interior, making the space more inviting and pleasant to spend time in. Furthermore, having windows in the front panels and door increases visibility while driving, enhancing safety on the road.
Opposite side behind driver’s seat
Another area where windows can be installed is on the opposite side behind the driver’s seat. This strategic placement of windows allows for cross ventilation and additional natural light diffusion. It creates a harmonious balance between the front and rear of the van, ensuring a well-illuminated and comfortable living space. Whether parked by a lake or in a forest, having windows on this side of the van allows occupants to appreciate the surrounding nature without stepping outside.
Installing Ventilation Fans
Front fan for kitchen area
Proper ventilation is crucial in a camper van to ensure fresh air circulation and prevent odors from accumulating. Installing a ventilation fan in the front, specifically near the kitchen area, provides an effective solution. This fan helps to remove cooking smells, steam, and excess heat generated while preparing meals. It also aids in expelling any moisture that may accumulate within the confined space, reducing the risk of mold or mildew growth. The front fan significantly contributes to maintaining a comfortable and pleasant environment inside the van.
Back fan for bedroom area
Equally important is the installation of a ventilation fan in the bedroom area at the back of the van. This fan serves to regulate air quality, ensuring a restful and refreshing sleep. It helps to eliminate any stuffiness that may occur during the night, promoting a comfortable and comfortable sleep environment. Additionally, the back fan aids in reducing condensation that can build up in the sleeping area, especially during colder seasons. By installing a ventilation fan at the back, a camper van will provide occupants with a well-ventilated and rejuvenating sleep space.
Fitting Solar Panels
Generating own electricity
In this modern era, incorporating solar panels to generate electricity is a sustainable and cost-effective choice. By fitting solar panels onto the roof of the van, it becomes self-sufficient in terms of electricity. These panels absorb sunlight and convert it into usable energy, which can power various appliances and devices within the van. From charging phones and laptops to running lights and kitchen appliances, solar panels offer a renewable source of electricity, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and minimizing environmental impact.
Off-grid capabilities
One of the significant advantages of fitting solar panels is the ability to go off-grid. With the van’s solar system, campers can venture into remote locations or campgrounds without electrical hookups. The energy stored in the batteries can power essential appliances, allowing for a comfortable living experience off-grid. This off-grid capability provides greater freedom and flexibility to explore nature and enjoy the tranquility of secluded locations. Fitting solar panels on a camper van is a smart investment that promotes sustainability and facilitates independent travel.
Interior Design
L-shaped seating area
Creating a functional and comfortable seating area is essential in a camper van. An L-shaped seating arrangement offers versatile seating options, maximizing the use of space. This design allows for socializing, eating, and relaxing, transforming the van into a cozy living area. The L-shaped seating area can also be converted into an additional sleeping space, accommodating guests or providing extra versatility for long travels. With its ergonomic design and ample seating room, this area becomes a versatile and inviting space within the camper van.
Kitchen unit with sink and cooker
To ensure a convenient and enjoyable travel experience, a camper van should include a well-equipped kitchen unit. This unit typically consists of a sink and a cooker, providing the necessary amenities for meal preparation. The sink allows for easy cleanup and water access, while the cooker enables campers to cook their favorite meals on the road. A compact and efficient kitchen unit with a sink and cooker ensures that occupants can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals while traveling, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Wet room with shower and toilet
Having a wet room with a shower and toilet inside the camper van adds a level of convenience that is both practical and luxurious. This dedicated space allows travelers to freshen up and take care of essential bodily needs without the need for external facilities. The wet room ensures privacy and eliminates the hassle of finding public restrooms or paying for campsite shower facilities. With a fully functional shower and toilet system, campers can maintain hygiene and comfort throughout their journeys.
Garage space for bikes
For outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy cycling, incorporating a garage space for bikes is a valuable addition to a camper van’s interior design. This dedicated space provides a secure and organized area to store bicycles while on the road. It eliminates the need to transport bicycles externally or worry about their safety. The garage space allows campers to bring their bikes wherever they go, ensuring they have the freedom to explore their surroundings at leisure.
Full-size double bed
A comfortable and restful sleep is essential for a successful camping trip. Including a full-size double bed in the van’s interior design ensures that occupants have a cozy and inviting sleeping area. The bed can be designed to fold or transform, maximizing space during the day and providing a comfortable sleeping space at night. A full-size double bed allows for uninterrupted sleep and relaxation, ensuring campers wake up refreshed and ready for their next adventure.
High-level storage cupboards
Efficient storage solutions are crucial in any camper van, as they maximize space utilization and keep belongings organized. High-level storage cupboards are an excellent addition to the van’s interior design as they utilize otherwise underutilized vertical space. These cupboards can be strategically placed near the ceiling, providing ample storage for items that are not needed on a daily basis. High-level storage cupboards help maintain a clutter-free living area, promoting a sense of tranquility and order within the van.
Interior Finishes
Ceiling lined with vinyl covered ply
To achieve a polished and aesthetically pleasing interior, lining the ceiling with vinyl covered ply is a recommended choice. Not only does it create a clean and finished look, but it also adds an additional layer of insulation. The vinyl covering protects the ply from moisture while providing an easy-to-clean surface. This combination of functionality and appearance enhances the overall interior design of the camper van, creating a visually appealing and comfortable living space.
Felt acoustic lining for rear portion
In order to minimize noise and enhance the acoustics within the rear portion of the van, using felt acoustic lining is highly beneficial. This lining material absorbs sound waves, reducing echo and making the space more serene. The felt acoustic lining is also an excellent insulator, improving temperature control and efficiency within the camper van. By incorporating this lining in the rear portion, the overall atmosphere is enhanced, promoting relaxation and tranquility.
Privacy windows
Privacy is an important consideration for camper van owners, especially when parking in crowded areas or urban environments. Installing privacy windows in the van ensures that occupants can enjoy their personal space without compromising on natural light. These windows are designed to allow light to enter while obstructing the view from the outside. By using privacy windows, campers can maintain privacy while still enjoying the benefits of natural light that promotes a pleasant and welcoming interior.
Detailed plans and construction of units
To create a functional and efficient interior, it is essential to have detailed plans and construct units accordingly. Designing and building units that fit the specific dimensions of the van maximizes space utilization. Whether it’s constructing storage units, kitchen units, or beds, careful planning ensures that the camper van’s interior design is optimized for comfort and usability. By following detailed plans and constructing units with precision, campers can create a well-organized and practical living space.
Use of lightweight furniture ply
In the camper van conversion process, using lightweight furniture ply is a smart choice. This material is easy to work with and offers durability while minimizing overall weight. Lightweight furniture ply is specifically designed for vehicle conversions, making it an ideal option for camper van interior finishes. By utilizing this material in the construction of furniture and surfaces, the van’s weight is kept to a minimum while ensuring a high-quality and long-lasting interior design.
Wet Room
Fully working shower and toilet system
A fully functioning shower and toilet system is an important feature to include in a camper van’s wet room. This system should be designed to provide all the necessary amenities required for personal hygiene while on the road. Whether it’s through clever space-saving designs or adaptable fixtures, creating a functional and fully working shower and toilet system ensures comfort and convenience during travels.
Installation of Thetford toilet
To ensure a reliable and efficient toilet system in the wet room, the installation of a Thetford toilet is recommended. Thetford toilets are specifically designed for mobile use and offer superior features such as efficient flushing mechanisms, waste management systems, and odor control. By incorporating a Thetford toilet, campers can enjoy the comforts of a home-like toilet experience while on the road. This installation greatly enhances the overall functionality of the wet room and improves the camping experience.
Auto gas system for cooking and heating
In a camper van, having a reliable source of gas for cooking and heating is essential. An auto gas system is a convenient and efficient solution for supplying gas to the kitchen unit and heating system. This system automatically switches between gas sources, ensuring uninterrupted operation and eliminating the need for manual intervention. The auto gas system provides a hassle-free and convenient way to cook meals and keep the van warm during colder seasons.
Refillable cylinder for gas
Using a refillable gas cylinder for the camper van’s gas supply offers several advantages. Firstly, it eliminates the need to carry and store multiple gas bottles, reducing weight and maximizing storage space. Refillable cylinders can be easily refilled at authorized gas stations or specialized filling stations, ensuring a continuous gas supply on the road. This option is also more environmentally friendly, as it reduces the amount of disposable gas bottles being discarded. A refillable gas cylinder system provides convenience, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness for camper van owners.
Space heater for warmth
To provide sufficient warmth during colder seasons or chilly nights, incorporating a space heater in the wet room is highly recommended. This heater should be designed to efficiently warm the space while operating silently and safely. A space heater ensures a comfortable environment, allowing campers to enjoy their travels even in colder climates. By including a space heater in the wet room, the van’s interior becomes a cozy and inviting retreat regardless of the outside temperature.
Electrical System
Solar system installation
The installation of a solar system is a critical component of a camper van’s electrical system. Solar panels, batteries, and an inverter work together to capture solar energy and convert it into usable electricity. This system ensures a constant source of power for various appliances and devices within the van. By harnessing solar energy, campers can minimize their reliance on traditional power sources and enjoy the benefits of sustainable and renewable energy while on the road.
Detailed explanation of van’s electrics
Understanding the electrical system of a camper van is important for troubleshooting and maintaining the system. A detailed explanation of the van’s electrics should cover components such as batteries, inverters, fuses, and wiring. It should outline how the system functions, how to monitor battery levels, and how to operate and maintain the various electrical components. A comprehensive understanding of the van’s electrics allows campers to confidently manage their power supply and ensure a smooth and trouble-free camping experience.
Innovative controls
Incorporating innovative controls in the electrical system adds convenience and efficiency to a camper van’s operations. These controls can include touchscreen interfaces, smart home automation systems, or mobile apps that allow remote monitoring and control of various functions. By utilizing innovative controls, campers can easily manage lighting, heating, ventilation, and other electrical systems within the van. This advanced technology enhances the overall camper van experience, providing seamless control and customization of the living environment.
Furniture Building
Construction of units from scratch
Building furniture units from scratch allows for customization and optimization of space within the camper van. Custom-built units can be specifically designed to fit the van’s dimensions, maximizing storage capacity and functionality. By constructing units from scratch, campers can tailor the design to their unique needs and preferences, ensuring a personalized and practical living space. Building furniture units from scratch also offers the opportunity to use quality materials and craftsmanship, resulting in long-lasting and visually appealing interior elements.
Use of lightweight furniture ply
Similar to the interior finishes section, using lightweight furniture ply in furniture building offers numerous advantages. This lightweight material is easy to work with while offering durability and strength. By using lightweight furniture ply, the weight of the camper van is kept to a minimum, enhancing fuel efficiency and maneuverability on the road. The use of this material ensures that the furniture is sturdy and functional while maintaining a low overall weight.
Plumbing
(Due to exceeding the word limit, the plumbing section will be excluded from this comprehensive article. However, it is important to note that incorporating a plumbing system in a camper van, including water tanks, pump systems, and plumbing fixtures, is crucial for a comfortable and self-sufficient living experience.)
Conclusion
Converting a standard van into a fully functional and comfortable camper requires careful planning and attention to detail. From cutting windows into the van to installing ventilation fans, fitting solar panels, and designing the interior, each step contributes to creating a well-equipped and inviting mobile home. Incorporating features such as a wet room, garage space for bikes, and high-level storage cupboards enhances the convenience and functionality of the camper van. The choice of interior finishes, including ceiling lining, acoustic lining, and privacy windows, adds a touch of elegance and comfort. Building furniture units from scratch and utilizing lightweight materials ensures a customized and lightweight interior. Finally, the installation of a fully functioning electrical system and plumbing system provides self-sufficiency and convenience while on the road. With careful planning and execution, a camper van can be transformed into a versatile and comfortable mobile home, allowing travelers to explore the world with ease and comfort.
