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RJNelson
climber
A few different places
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Topic Author's Original Post - Apr 4, 2014 - 09:12am PT
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I recently purchased a 2014 Dodge Promaster (think sprinter) that I'm converting into a camper van. From the pictures you can see that I've got the basic framework done and all of the wiring.
What I would like info on are what people have used to finish with other than a veneer. The insides of the cabinets will get carpet on top and sides then rubber mat on bottom. The main floor will be a composite material. My girlfriend and I have lived out of a Ford Edge off and on for 3 years so we have our systems pretty dialed but I also am looking for tips on different amenities or necessities you may have in your ride.[photoid=352165]
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stuv
climber
pas de montagnes
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Good thread and it looks like you're off to a nice start. I second the did you insulate it question.
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Meagher
Trad climber
Reno, NV
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Sweet van. Please post pics as you progress.
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Sanskara
climber
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Insulate!
I wouldn't have built the back shelves like that as it takes up a ton of space. Idk though I am a nest freak like make my bed as soon as I get up so maybe I would have to to keep thing tidy?
Make it a two bedroom so I can mov in ;)
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MarkWestman
Trad climber
Talkeetna, Alaska
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I recommend at least one roof vent with a two-way fan.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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I recommend at least one roof vent with a two-way fan. That would be a good idea - to vent out the formaldehyde fumes from that chip board. Personally, I would tear that stuff out and re-do it, but since it's already in there, you might at least consider some paint - Kilz or somesuch - for the sides you can access... Even painted, you will still see the texture.
There are so many people who do this stuff, of varying skill levels, I'm sure you've already found many websites. Suggest lots of homework. There is a ton of experience out there you can gain from.
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Sanskara
climber
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Good point on the formaldehyde!
I mighta missed that myself. Living atop that and breathing in the off gases = bad!
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RJNelson
climber
A few different places
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Topic Author's Reply - Apr 4, 2014 - 01:06pm PT
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Thanks.
It's wired for a 2000 watt invert with 6 separate circuits.
Also has 8 additional 12v circuits. All wired for solar and auxiliary battery. Also wired for a power fan. All electrical systems are separate of van with exception of the alternator to charge aux battery.
Walls are insulated with r30 batt faced insulation. Floor is also insulated with r15 compressed under 1 in sub floor. All door panels were popped and insulated.
Also floor is 1in subfloor. Rated for indoor use. I'm sure that the formaldehyde issue will not be a problem. This is 60 a sheet. Top quality not the 15 dollar sheets from Home Depot. Thanks for concern though. It's thru bolted so not coming out Anyway. It will be covered with a composite floor.
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martygarrison
Trad climber
Washington DC
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how much should I expect to pay for one of these things in good working order? Is #of miles on the thing a big concern? I know little about this.
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RJNelson
climber
A few different places
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Topic Author's Reply - Apr 4, 2014 - 01:26pm PT
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We bought this new for 36,000. This is the first year for this van so no used ones yet. For example a used sprinter with about 100,000 miles go for 20 grand.
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AlanDoak
Trad climber
Boulder, CO
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The Promaster seems like a great van for conversions. Go to http://sprinter-source.com/forum/ for ideas and such. There's a ton of writeups there.
Black out tint the windows. Sure, a curtain will give privacy, but it communicates that you're hiding what's inside.
Roof vent fans are nice. Opening the window isn't an option when it's buggy outside.
LED strip/bar lighting is efficient and gives a distributed light that better illuminates the many corners and nooks in a van.
If your rear doors lock seperately from the rest of the van (i.e. can't be opened from inside the van, same as valet locking a trunk), you can use the rear facing cabinets for secure storage (your climbing gear, for example). A padlocked cabinet inside isn't all that secure if someone breaks into your van, since they'll have the privacy to go to work on it.
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AlanDoak
Trad climber
Boulder, CO
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Swivel passenger seats are great, if your's doesn't have one already.
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RJNelson
climber
A few different places
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Topic Author's Reply - Apr 4, 2014 - 10:50pm PT
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Thanks for suggestions. I have looked into swivel seat I'd like to have one.
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ß Î Ø T Ç H
Boulder climber
extraordinaire
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1994 Subaru Sambar Mini (Kei) Van AWD Super Charged (not mine)
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RJNelson
climber
A few different places
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Topic Author's Reply - Apr 5, 2014 - 09:01am PT
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That mini van is sick!
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Lollie
Social climber
I'm Lolli.
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Why don't you import one yourself?
From Canada.
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sierrasclimber
Trad climber
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May 27, 2015 - 04:37pm PT
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Hey RJ, any update on this project? You guys hit the road much with it yet? Looking for a new adventure rig and thinking the Promaster might fit the need for us. Wondering about drivability, mpg, clearance on rougher dirt roads.
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pud
climber
Sportbikeville & Yucca brevifolia
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May 27, 2015 - 05:30pm PT
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A few recent improvements to my E250
12k lb Smittybuilt Spectra winch on homemade bumper w/48W LED floods
High Jack mount & 18w side/rear LED floods
Dual 48w LED Pass side floods
HD flatscreen wall mount
200W Solar panels
K&N Cold air intake kit
The Cosmic Pod
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