Van Build
Our 7 month long journey building out our climbing van! 591 photosTuesday, November 6
We bought a van!!!
6 Nov 2018 - 18:32
6 Nov 2018 - 18:32
Thursday, November 8
8 Nov 2018 - 20:59
Kinda looks like he's standing over his own chalk outline from a doggy murder.
Kinda looks like he's standing over his own chalk outline from a doggy murder.
8 Nov 2018 - 21:18
8 Nov 2018 - 21:18
Unscrewing some of the wood paneling that came on the walls.
Unscrewing some of the wood paneling that came on the walls.
8 Nov 2018 - 21:35
Unscrewing some of the wood paneling that came on the walls.
Unscrewing some of the wood paneling that came on the walls.
8 Nov 2018 - 21:36
8 Nov 2018 - 21:38
Saturday, November 10
10 Nov 2018 - 13:32
10 Nov 2018 - 14:43
Sunday, November 11
11 Nov 2018 - 13:27
11 Nov 2018 - 15:10
We'll have to clean all of this out and remove the rust before we can begin building
We'll have to clean all of this out and remove the rust before we can begin building
11 Nov 2018 - 15:10
We had to remove all of the old dirt and epoxy from the floor, grind down the rust, then repaint the metal.
We had to remove all of the old dirt and epoxy from the floor, grind down the rust, then repaint the metal.
First version of the van layout complete. All of the features we want are in, there might be some tweaking going forward, but this should be pretty close to the final version.
11 Nov 2018 - 19:00
11 Nov 2018 - 19:00
11 Nov 2018 - 19:00
Monday, November 12
12 Nov 2018 - 21:17
Tuesday, November 13
Welcome to our van build! We're about a week into it. We're still cleaning it out and planning what to build in it.
13 Nov 2018 - 14:31
It took so much work to remove just a few inches of this dirt/epoxy mixture from the last owner of the van.
It took so much work to remove just a few inches of this dirt/epoxy mixture from the last owner of the van.
13 Nov 2018 - 14:31
13 Nov 2018 - 14:31
13 Nov 2018 - 14:53
13 Nov 2018 - 17:32
Figuring out how much space we have for things.
Figuring out how much space we have for things.
13 Nov 2018 - 18:31
Friday, November 23
23 Nov 2018 - 21:19
A long cold night on our hands and knees.
A long cold night on our hands and knees.
This is hard work, Mary helped out a ton last night, and we're making good head way today. Removing the mixture of years of dirt and epoxy. Starting to move on to removing old caulking now. Hoping to have the cleaning done by the end of Sunday, but it's slow going, so we'll see...
Saturday, November 24
24 Nov 2018 - 13:51
24 Nov 2018 - 15:19
24 Nov 2018 - 16:36
Sunday, November 25
25 Nov 2018 - 15:01
25 Nov 2018 - 15:06
Started stripping down the rusted surfaces today and resealing some of the seems that had rusted out. Alex also finished the front cleaning that Mary had been working on last night, it's actually looking nice up there now!
25 Nov 2018 - 15:07
We had to clean the seems down to bare metal, then reseal the seem.
We had to clean the seems down to bare metal, then reseal the seem.
Tuesday, November 27
27 Nov 2018 - 19:07
We power washed the floor in the van, so some water collected and needed to be drained.
We power washed the floor in the van, so some water collected and needed to be drained.
Thursday, November 29
I took today off work so Stacy and I could finish removing rust and do the final cleaning to prepare for painting. It took all day but at 6pm we finally got to applying the rustolium to all of the rust spots. Next step is applying rust preventing paint to the entire floor, and then the preparation phase is complete!
29 Nov 2018 - 12:00
29 Nov 2018 - 16:12
29 Nov 2018 - 16:12
29 Nov 2018 - 16:51
29 Nov 2018 - 18:25
All of the rust spots had to be covered to help protect against rust in the future.
All of the rust spots had to be covered to help protect against rust in the future.
29 Nov 2018 - 18:33
29 Nov 2018 - 18:34
Once it dried we can apply new paint to further protect it.
Once it dried we can apply new paint to further protect it.
29 Nov 2018 - 18:36
Once it dried we can apply new paint to further protect it.
Once it dried we can apply new paint to further protect it.
Saturday, December 1
Painting complete!! Just have to wait for it to dry and do some seem sealing and the preparation phase will be complete!
1 Dec 2018 - 13:39
Oh I mean paint the floor.
Oh I mean paint the floor.
Tuesday, December 4
4 Dec 2018 - 19:06
Thursday, December 6
6 Dec 2018 - 18:08
We also had our mechanic bang out the dents in the wheel wells so that we'd have the full travel distance in our suspension.
We also had our mechanic bang out the dents in the wheel wells so that we'd have the full travel distance in our suspension.
Saturday, December 8
More parts arriving every day
8 Dec 2018 - 13:49
Sunday, December 9
9 Dec 2018 - 14:01
9 Dec 2018 - 14:26
We'll have a nice secure base for the rest of the build by bolting this 3/4" extra dense plywood directly to the frame of the van.
We'll have a nice secure base for the rest of the build by bolting this 3/4" extra dense plywood directly to the frame of the van.
9 Dec 2018 - 17:22
Cutting 4x8 on a table saw takes a bit of practice and skill!
Cutting 4x8 on a table saw takes a bit of practice and skill!
9 Dec 2018 - 17:34
9 Dec 2018 - 17:36
9 Dec 2018 - 17:36
9 Dec 2018 - 18:01
We'd never used any of these tools before, so there would be lots of practice wood in our future.
We'd never used any of these tools before, so there would be lots of practice wood in our future.
9 Dec 2018 - 18:50
Cutting the wheel well out of the floor template
Cutting the wheel well out of the floor template
Spent the weekend finishing our research and planning for the flooring, then bought all the materials, and for the first time in this project, began actually cutting wood for the van! Working on getting the foot print for the flooring perfect, and then began cutting it! It will probably be a few days of cutting to finish the flooring, but we're getting there.
9 Dec 2018 - 19:38
Monday, December 10
10 Dec 2018 - 13:40
10 Dec 2018 - 14:42
10 Dec 2018 - 15:29
This was the most complex piece in terms of cut shapes.
This was the most complex piece in terms of cut shapes.
Today we finished the floor, it's ready to install the next day we get a chance.
10 Dec 2018 - 17:03
Turns out the van battery was pretty old, would have to replace it.
Turns out the van battery was pretty old, would have to replace it.
Van needed a new battery, boy was it difficult to get the jumper cables to reach!
Saturday, December 15
15 Dec 2018 - 10:48
Getting ready for our first big day of modifying the van it's self!
Getting ready for our first big day of modifying the van it's self!
15 Dec 2018 - 11:09
15 Dec 2018 - 11:12
15 Dec 2018 - 11:12
15 Dec 2018 - 11:56
This was scary! And took a really long time because we had no idea what we were doing. Future modifications to the van body would go much smoother.
This was scary! And took a really long time because we had no idea what we were doing. Future modifications to the van body would go much smoother.
15 Dec 2018 - 12:44
15 Dec 2018 - 13:48
15 Dec 2018 - 14:18
15 Dec 2018 - 15:01
15 Dec 2018 - 15:03
15 Dec 2018 - 15:24
15 Dec 2018 - 15:53
15 Dec 2018 - 18:20
Lots of caulking to water proof the whole thing.
Lots of caulking to water proof the whole thing.
15 Dec 2018 - 18:31
15 Dec 2018 - 19:07
Very exciting, this was extremely stressful!
Very exciting, this was extremely stressful!
15 Dec 2018 - 20:11
Took all day, but we got our fan installed! Learned a lot about cutting into the Van body, which was super stressful since you can't really undo a mistake there :P
Sunday, December 16
16 Dec 2018 - 12:15
16 Dec 2018 - 13:34
16 Dec 2018 - 14:37
Doing it in the van because it's raining outside. This would become a trend. So. Much. Rain.
Doing it in the van because it's raining outside. This would become a trend. So. Much. Rain.
16 Dec 2018 - 16:59
16 Dec 2018 - 18:32
Monday, December 17
17 Dec 2018 - 12:21
17 Dec 2018 - 12:49
Just enough to fill the gaps between the floor ribs. We didn't want to lose any real height to this.
Just enough to fill the gaps between the floor ribs. We didn't want to lose any real height to this.
17 Dec 2018 - 13:40
We had to tap the bolt holes as they were completely destroyed from gunk.
We had to tap the bolt holes as they were completely destroyed from gunk.
17 Dec 2018 - 14:04
17 Dec 2018 - 15:46
17 Dec 2018 - 15:46
17 Dec 2018 - 15:46
It took two days, but the floor is insulated and installed!
Tuesday, December 18
18 Dec 2018 - 14:13
18 Dec 2018 - 14:28
18 Dec 2018 - 14:52
18 Dec 2018 - 15:16
Spent today figuring out our plan for the studs. That decided we started on the hardest part, forming the studs for the ceiling. Tomorrow we'll hopefully get them installed.
Wednesday, December 19
19 Dec 2018 - 10:02
19 Dec 2018 - 11:33
19 Dec 2018 - 13:19
19 Dec 2018 - 13:47
19 Dec 2018 - 15:38
19 Dec 2018 - 16:41
19 Dec 2018 - 17:16
19 Dec 2018 - 19:00
Finished and installed the ceiling studs. Tomorrow we'll do the wall studs!
Thursday, December 20
20 Dec 2018 - 09:44
20 Dec 2018 - 12:13
We use two furring strips per stud, which were flexible enough to take on the contour of the van wall.
We use two furring strips per stud, which were flexible enough to take on the contour of the van wall.
20 Dec 2018 - 13:24
20 Dec 2018 - 16:36
Working on the wall studs in the van to stay out of the rain.
Working on the wall studs in the van to stay out of the rain.
20 Dec 2018 - 16:36
20 Dec 2018 - 18:59
This was a pretty good early milestone
This was a pretty good early milestone
All of the studs are done! We're ready to move on!
Friday, December 21
21 Dec 2018 - 11:22
This one for the skylight
This one for the skylight
21 Dec 2018 - 11:28
21 Dec 2018 - 12:47
21 Dec 2018 - 13:10
21 Dec 2018 - 15:04
21 Dec 2018 - 18:59
Woke up at 6am today to take full advantage of the only dry day we'll have for the next week. It took all day but we got the sky light successfully installed. This is the last major van body modification we have to make, so it's pretty exciting to be done with it.
Saturday, December 22
22 Dec 2018 - 13:32
22 Dec 2018 - 13:32
22 Dec 2018 - 14:05
22 Dec 2018 - 15:48
Things are starting to move along!
Things are starting to move along!
22 Dec 2018 - 16:21
Lots of research into wood for walls and ceiling and electronics today
Sunday, December 23
23 Dec 2018 - 13:59
23 Dec 2018 - 17:45
We created secure attachment points for a hammock so we can comfortably sleep a 3rd person if need be.
We created secure attachment points for a hammock so we can comfortably sleep a 3rd person if need be.
23 Dec 2018 - 18:27
23 Dec 2018 - 19:51
23 Dec 2018 - 20:12
Finished up odds and ends that had to be done before we insulated. And we finished getting our hammock attachment points installed for guest sleeping space!
Monday, December 24
24 Dec 2018 - 10:30
24 Dec 2018 - 11:15
24 Dec 2018 - 11:55
24 Dec 2018 - 11:58
We use this stuff to fill gaps that we can't get to with the RockWool
We use this stuff to fill gaps that we can't get to with the RockWool
24 Dec 2018 - 12:45
24 Dec 2018 - 13:03
24 Dec 2018 - 13:47
24 Dec 2018 - 17:08
This thing was probably the most important tool to the entire van build.
This thing was probably the most important tool to the entire van build.
24 Dec 2018 - 17:23
24 Dec 2018 - 19:47
Got the walls insulated! Now we are very itchy.
Thursday, December 27
27 Dec 2018 - 13:34
27 Dec 2018 - 14:35
27 Dec 2018 - 14:37
27 Dec 2018 - 16:40
First layer on the ceiling insulation done, the 2nd layer is trickier, will have to do it another day.
Monday, January 7
7 Jan 2019 - 20:17
7 Jan 2019 - 20:17
7 Jan 2019 - 20:28
These also have to be caulked so their screw holes are water proof.
These also have to be caulked so their screw holes are water proof.
7 Jan 2019 - 20:50
Solar panels installed! We had to do it at night because we work and this was the only weather window dry enough in weeks!
Saturday, January 12
12 Jan 2019 - 12:58
12 Jan 2019 - 13:39
12 Jan 2019 - 14:11
12 Jan 2019 - 14:39
12 Jan 2019 - 16:51
12 Jan 2019 - 16:51
12 Jan 2019 - 17:36
Pretty much finished the insulation, steadily ticking off the tasks on our way to putting up walls.
Sunday, January 13
13 Jan 2019 - 14:21
13 Jan 2019 - 14:24
13 Jan 2019 - 14:40
13 Jan 2019 - 14:46
This will also be a critical part of the bed support system.
This will also be a critical part of the bed support system.
13 Jan 2019 - 15:52
13 Jan 2019 - 15:54
13 Jan 2019 - 17:56
13 Jan 2019 - 18:07
A little more insulation, then we finished fabricating the"garage" walls and actually got them installed!
Tuesday, January 15
15 Jan 2019 - 18:31
Thursday, January 17
17 Jan 2019 - 19:39
This is different from the others, so had to be quite custom
This is different from the others, so had to be quite custom
Monday, January 21
21 Jan 2019 - 15:56
This one was crazy difficult to get fit.
This one was crazy difficult to get fit.
21 Jan 2019 - 16:45
21 Jan 2019 - 16:46
21 Jan 2019 - 16:52
Ticking off lots of small items on our list of the past week or so. Making progress.
Saturday, January 26
26 Jan 2019 - 12:43
26 Jan 2019 - 13:14
26 Jan 2019 - 15:03
26 Jan 2019 - 15:52
26 Jan 2019 - 16:27
26 Jan 2019 - 16:43
26 Jan 2019 - 16:47
Wheel wells fabricated and installed!
Saturday, February 2
2 Feb 2019 - 11:44
2 Feb 2019 - 13:00
2 Feb 2019 - 13:44
This is the system for our lighting, switches, phone chargers, water pumps, pretty much everything. Wet paw prints all over.
This is the system for our lighting, switches, phone chargers, water pumps, pretty much everything. Wet paw prints all over.
Alex helped and we ran the DC circuits that go behind the walls today.
Sunday, February 3
3 Feb 2019 - 14:46
3 Feb 2019 - 15:00
3 Feb 2019 - 15:00
Solar system is hooked up and charging the batteries!
Wednesday, February 6
6 Feb 2019 - 13:14
6 Feb 2019 - 13:50
6 Feb 2019 - 13:50
6 Feb 2019 - 14:26
6 Feb 2019 - 14:30
6 Feb 2019 - 14:31
Had trouble getting the glue to cure because of how cold it was.
Had trouble getting the glue to cure because of how cold it was.
6 Feb 2019 - 15:08
6 Feb 2019 - 15:14
6 Feb 2019 - 16:31
6 Feb 2019 - 16:59
Began installing the rubber garage flooring, it was a very cold day working in the van!
Saturday, February 9
9 Feb 2019 - 17:02
9 Feb 2019 - 17:23
Our LED lights running off of our battery system
Our LED lights running off of our battery system
9 Feb 2019 - 17:23
Our LED lights running off of our battery system
Our LED lights running off of our battery system
9 Feb 2019 - 17:55
The fan, lights, and dimmer switches are all working!
Sunday, February 10
10 Feb 2019 - 14:27
10 Feb 2019 - 15:42
10 Feb 2019 - 16:03
Cutting the rest of the rubber, but it's too cold to glue it in place today.
Friday, February 15
15 Feb 2019 - 19:04
15 Feb 2019 - 19:04
Saturday, February 16
16 Feb 2019 - 12:02
16 Feb 2019 - 12:19
16 Feb 2019 - 12:19
16 Feb 2019 - 13:08
16 Feb 2019 - 14:35
16 Feb 2019 - 17:03
16 Feb 2019 - 17:28
16 Feb 2019 - 18:12
16 Feb 2019 - 18:13
16 Feb 2019 - 19:07
We finished installing the rubber flooring in the garage, and water sealed around the edges.
Sunday, February 17
17 Feb 2019 - 13:24
We bought out all of Home Depo's tung and groove cedar
We bought out all of Home Depo's tung and groove cedar
17 Feb 2019 - 13:24
Getting ready to do the ceiling!
Getting ready to do the ceiling!
17 Feb 2019 - 13:24
17 Feb 2019 - 13:35
17 Feb 2019 - 16:49
17 Feb 2019 - 17:48
We finally bought the Cedar for the walls and ceiling and began installing it!!!
Monday, February 18
18 Feb 2019 - 11:48
18 Feb 2019 - 12:29
Trying to keep the wood dry
Trying to keep the wood dry
18 Feb 2019 - 13:27
18 Feb 2019 - 14:11
Getting a bunch of ceiling boards cut at once
Getting a bunch of ceiling boards cut at once
18 Feb 2019 - 14:11
18 Feb 2019 - 14:13
18 Feb 2019 - 14:38
18 Feb 2019 - 14:38
18 Feb 2019 - 14:38
18 Feb 2019 - 15:22
18 Feb 2019 - 15:30
18 Feb 2019 - 16:05
18 Feb 2019 - 16:05
18 Feb 2019 - 16:14
18 Feb 2019 - 16:23
18 Feb 2019 - 17:37
18 Feb 2019 - 17:38
18 Feb 2019 - 18:49
Yes Lucky is interested in tacos
Yes Lucky is interested in tacos
Thursday, February 21
21 Feb 2019 - 16:31
Saturday, February 23
23 Feb 2019 - 12:00
23 Feb 2019 - 12:11
23 Feb 2019 - 12:53
This is more or less where it will actually be installed when everything is complete. And it's working!
This is more or less where it will actually be installed when everything is complete. And it's working!
23 Feb 2019 - 12:53
23 Feb 2019 - 13:12
23 Feb 2019 - 13:13
We need MOAR CEDAR!
We need MOAR CEDAR!
23 Feb 2019 - 13:13
23 Feb 2019 - 13:13
23 Feb 2019 - 14:46
23 Feb 2019 - 16:38
23 Feb 2019 - 16:40
23 Feb 2019 - 16:57
23 Feb 2019 - 18:15
23 Feb 2019 - 18:44
Spent the last two days working on the electrical system and ceiling, and both are almost done! Should be finishing up the two tomorrow.
Sunday, February 24
24 Feb 2019 - 12:38
24 Feb 2019 - 12:38
24 Feb 2019 - 12:38
24 Feb 2019 - 12:38
24 Feb 2019 - 12:44
24 Feb 2019 - 13:00
24 Feb 2019 - 13:40
24 Feb 2019 - 13:40
24 Feb 2019 - 13:43
24 Feb 2019 - 14:08
24 Feb 2019 - 14:19
24 Feb 2019 - 14:57
24 Feb 2019 - 14:57
24 Feb 2019 - 15:19
24 Feb 2019 - 15:22
This is great progress!
This is great progress!
24 Feb 2019 - 15:22
24 Feb 2019 - 15:23
24 Feb 2019 - 15:24
The ceiling is complete! And the electrical system is all in and working, which means we have LIGHTS!
Saturday, March 2
2 Mar 2019 - 12:10
Bought more cedar, ready to begin on the walls.
Bought more cedar, ready to begin on the walls.
2 Mar 2019 - 12:46
This is much more rigid than just the 2x6 on it's own.
This is much more rigid than just the 2x6 on it's own.
2 Mar 2019 - 12:48
2 Mar 2019 - 13:37
2 Mar 2019 - 14:43
2 Mar 2019 - 14:43
2 Mar 2019 - 14:57
2 Mar 2019 - 14:58
2 Mar 2019 - 15:04
2 Mar 2019 - 15:40
2 Mar 2019 - 15:41
2 Mar 2019 - 15:59
2 Mar 2019 - 17:10
2 Mar 2019 - 17:23
2 Mar 2019 - 18:20
Sunday, March 3
3 Mar 2019 - 11:17
3 Mar 2019 - 11:27
3 Mar 2019 - 11:53
3 Mar 2019 - 15:13
3 Mar 2019 - 16:33
This will just plug into our inverter.
This will just plug into our inverter.
Monday, March 4
4 Mar 2019 - 12:26
4 Mar 2019 - 12:34
4 Mar 2019 - 13:56
4 Mar 2019 - 18:14
4 Mar 2019 - 18:14
4 Mar 2019 - 18:44
4 Mar 2019 - 22:47
Tuesday, March 5
5 Mar 2019 - 12:23
5 Mar 2019 - 12:23
5 Mar 2019 - 16:18
4 long days of van work and we got the walls up! Electrical wiring has all been cleaned up from the mess it was before, and many things are in their actual final locations! And we constructed and installed the bed frame.
Saturday, March 9
9 Mar 2019 - 10:57
9 Mar 2019 - 11:44
It's not quite correct yet, need to change one of the angles.
It's not quite correct yet, need to change one of the angles.
9 Mar 2019 - 12:20
9 Mar 2019 - 12:32
9 Mar 2019 - 13:29
9 Mar 2019 - 15:19
Finished the corners between the walls and the ceiling. This was quite a bit of testing and figuring to get them right.
Sunday, March 10
10 Mar 2019 - 12:00
10 Mar 2019 - 15:37
10 Mar 2019 - 15:57
10 Mar 2019 - 15:59
10 Mar 2019 - 17:13
Took all Sunday to finally decide on the plan for covering the doors. We're cutting 1/4" Plywood to the odd shapes needed for the doors. Then We're going to paint it and screw it in. Got some of it done, but will take the rest of the week probably to get it done.
Thursday, March 14
14 Mar 2019 - 22:29
Friday, March 15
15 Mar 2019 - 21:25
Saturday, March 16
16 Mar 2019 - 12:04
Final coat of paint!
16 Mar 2019 - 14:34
16 Mar 2019 - 14:35
16 Mar 2019 - 17:07
16 Mar 2019 - 18:38
16 Mar 2019 - 18:39
16 Mar 2019 - 18:42
Gotta make sure our storage plan works now with the bed supports installed!
Gotta make sure our storage plan works now with the bed supports installed!
16 Mar 2019 - 19:14
We need to validate our plan now that we can get real measurements.
We need to validate our plan now that we can get real measurements.
16 Mar 2019 - 19:14
Yesterday we got the door walls installed, and then test fit all of our storage and utilities.
Sunday, March 17
17 Mar 2019 - 13:36
17 Mar 2019 - 14:45
Tuesday, March 19
19 Mar 2019 - 19:03
19 Mar 2019 - 19:54
Wednesday, March 20
20 Mar 2019 - 19:16
20 Mar 2019 - 19:35
This is just a test piece
This is just a test piece
20 Mar 2019 - 20:58
Our next task is getting the toilet and refrigerator installed, which requires some testing and experimenting. So we cleaned out the work shop, bought a few tools and clamps we were missing for this type of work, and have been experimenting a bit with what is the best way to accomplish our goals. We're trying to have it all figured out by the weekend so that we can actually finish the installation over the weekend.
Saturday, March 23
23 Mar 2019 - 11:26
23 Mar 2019 - 13:24
23 Mar 2019 - 14:11
23 Mar 2019 - 14:16
23 Mar 2019 - 17:49
23 Mar 2019 - 17:49
23 Mar 2019 - 18:42
23 Mar 2019 - 18:47
23 Mar 2019 - 18:58
23 Mar 2019 - 20:05
23 Mar 2019 - 20:07
preparing to put down our actual flooring!
preparing to put down our actual flooring!
Finished the toilet assembly and installed it. Got the through hole for the toilet vent drilled and it's fitting is now drying. Also got the water tank installed. Stacy started on the flooring, all preparation today, but tomorrow she'll be installing the final floor!
Sunday, March 24
24 Mar 2019 - 00:00
24 Mar 2019 - 11:19
24 Mar 2019 - 16:04
24 Mar 2019 - 16:07
24 Mar 2019 - 16:55
24 Mar 2019 - 18:37
24 Mar 2019 - 18:58
Stacy trimming up the flooring
Stacy trimming up the flooring
24 Mar 2019 - 19:21
24 Mar 2019 - 19:21
24 Mar 2019 - 19:22
24 Mar 2019 - 19:23
Stacy started and finished the flooring all this weekend! Today I made and installed the drawer for the refrigerator so it can slide out from under the bench.
Saturday, March 30
30 Mar 2019 - 13:05
30 Mar 2019 - 13:43
30 Mar 2019 - 13:43
30 Mar 2019 - 16:32
30 Mar 2019 - 16:42
30 Mar 2019 - 16:43
Sunday, March 31
31 Mar 2019 - 11:47
31 Mar 2019 - 12:52
31 Mar 2019 - 16:28
31 Mar 2019 - 16:56
31 Mar 2019 - 16:56
This weekend we installed our replacement sun visor, the swivel base for the passenger seat, began installing the pumps and plumbing for our water system, and began making the propane locker.
Monday, April 1
1 Apr 2019 - 00:00
Tuesday, April 2
2 Apr 2019 - 20:35
Wednesday, April 3
3 Apr 2019 - 18:04
Friday, April 5
5 Apr 2019 - 15:01
5 Apr 2019 - 15:36
5 Apr 2019 - 16:11
5 Apr 2019 - 18:03
Saturday, April 6
6 Apr 2019 - 12:04
6 Apr 2019 - 12:34
6 Apr 2019 - 16:58
The propane locker is mostly complete, waiting on a part in the mail to finish it.
Sunday, April 7
7 Apr 2019 - 16:28
7 Apr 2019 - 18:41
Two of the sections are removable for maintenance
Two of the sections are removable for maintenance
7 Apr 2019 - 18:43
7 Apr 2019 - 18:45
Our bed platform is installed! It has two removable sections so we can access the garage for maintenance if needed.
Monday, April 8
8 Apr 2019 - 15:46
8 Apr 2019 - 17:17
8 Apr 2019 - 18:03
8 Apr 2019 - 18:41
Tuesday, April 9
9 Apr 2019 - 14:32
9 Apr 2019 - 14:41
9 Apr 2019 - 16:26
9 Apr 2019 - 23:19
Wednesday, April 10
10 Apr 2019 - 15:13
10 Apr 2019 - 18:32
10 Apr 2019 - 19:13
10 Apr 2019 - 19:14
10 Apr 2019 - 19:41
10 Apr 2019 - 19:44
10 Apr 2019 - 19:51
After three long days of work, the water system is complete, and the bench is installed!
Thursday, April 11
11 Apr 2019 - 16:34
11 Apr 2019 - 17:10
We have a throw rug, shit is getting real!
Friday, April 12
12 Apr 2019 - 12:17
12 Apr 2019 - 14:21
12 Apr 2019 - 15:57
Finished the bench support system, and began researching how to build cabinets and designing our kitchen cabinet.
Saturday, April 13
13 Apr 2019 - 11:18
13 Apr 2019 - 11:42
13 Apr 2019 - 12:52
13 Apr 2019 - 13:43
Had to make some cuts that were just a bit larger than my rip fence could support, so I set up this jig.
Had to make some cuts that were just a bit larger than my rip fence could support, so I set up this jig.
13 Apr 2019 - 15:52
We have to cut the cabinet back to conform to the curve of the van wall.
We have to cut the cabinet back to conform to the curve of the van wall.
13 Apr 2019 - 17:00
13 Apr 2019 - 17:00
13 Apr 2019 - 17:00
13 Apr 2019 - 17:36
13 Apr 2019 - 17:39
13 Apr 2019 - 18:25
13 Apr 2019 - 18:50
13 Apr 2019 - 19:06
13 Apr 2019 - 20:06
13 Apr 2019 - 20:07
13 Apr 2019 - 20:16
Stacy began installing our propane piping. I finalized our cabinet design, cut all of the boards for it, and finished the boards.
Sunday, April 14
14 Apr 2019 - 15:48
14 Apr 2019 - 15:49
14 Apr 2019 - 15:56
14 Apr 2019 - 18:03
14 Apr 2019 - 18:10
14 Apr 2019 - 18:13
14 Apr 2019 - 18:16
14 Apr 2019 - 18:18
14 Apr 2019 - 18:21
We've finished the carcass of our kitchen cabinet! This is by far the most complex cabinet we will have to make. It's far from done, but this was the hard part.
Friday, April 19
19 Apr 2019 - 13:20
19 Apr 2019 - 13:20
19 Apr 2019 - 16:11
Saturday, April 20
20 Apr 2019 - 15:14
Monday, April 22
22 Apr 2019 - 14:17
22 Apr 2019 - 16:49
Adam is cutting the counter top so we have space to install the oven
Adam is cutting the counter top so we have space to install the oven
22 Apr 2019 - 18:46
Adam is using a template and router is make the perfect spot for the sink in the counter top
Adam is using a template and router is make the perfect spot for the sink in the counter top
22 Apr 2019 - 20:00
Making sure the oven and sink fit into our butcher block counter top before we install the lower kitchen cabinet
Making sure the oven and sink fit into our butcher block counter top before we install the lower kitchen cabinet
22 Apr 2019 - 20:25
Putting wood conditioner onto the butcher block so the stain takes evenly to the surface
Putting wood conditioner onto the butcher block so the stain takes evenly to the surface
Tuesday, April 23
23 Apr 2019 - 13:19
Jamie helped paint the bed slats
Jamie helped paint the bed slats
23 Apr 2019 - 13:33
The honey color of the wood comes from the wood conditioner. Now it's ready to stain!
The honey color of the wood comes from the wood conditioner. Now it's ready to stain!
23 Apr 2019 - 13:38
Painting on the stain before rubbing off the excess
Painting on the stain before rubbing off the excess
23 Apr 2019 - 13:39
23 Apr 2019 - 14:02
23 Apr 2019 - 18:44
Wednesday, April 24
24 Apr 2019 - 15:43
24 Apr 2019 - 19:34
24 Apr 2019 - 19:37
Adam's Wood Working experience over the past few months and he was able to design this drawer for the kitchen cabinet
Adam's Wood Working experience over the past few months and he was able to design this drawer for the kitchen cabinet
Over the past week we've continued working on the kitchen cabinet, making steady progress. And Stacy began staining and painting lots of the wood work.
Thursday, April 25
25 Apr 2019 - 19:13
Saturday, April 27
27 Apr 2019 - 12:52
CLAAAMPS
CLAAAMPS
27 Apr 2019 - 13:28
This piece of wood jumped, hit the blade then flew off the table. Luckily no one was hurt!
This piece of wood jumped, hit the blade then flew off the table. Luckily no one was hurt!
27 Apr 2019 - 13:35
27 Apr 2019 - 13:36
27 Apr 2019 - 15:11
27 Apr 2019 - 16:25
27 Apr 2019 - 17:14
We were so happy for sunny days when the paint dried quickly
We were so happy for sunny days when the paint dried quickly
Sunday, April 28
28 Apr 2019 - 18:29
Catpurr, your legs are too short and your don't have thumbs. Also, you don't have a license.
Catpurr, your legs are too short and your don't have thumbs. Also, you don't have a license.
28 Apr 2019 - 18:37
The bottom kitchen cabinet is complete! Stacy has been working on installing the Furnace and running the propane and water into the new cabinet, still a little work to go there, but we're getting close to being able to do a full systems test of both!
Tuesday, April 30
30 Apr 2019 - 11:48
Always good to try stuff out before doing it in the van where it can't be (easily) fixed.
Always good to try stuff out before doing it in the van where it can't be (easily) fixed.
30 Apr 2019 - 13:50
30 Apr 2019 - 19:24
And so much sawdust...
And so much sawdust...
Wednesday, May 1
1 May 2019 - 13:12
Nothing is made to fit in a van, so we had to customize lots and lots of off the shelf materials...
Nothing is made to fit in a van, so we had to customize lots and lots of off the shelf materials...
1 May 2019 - 15:39
1 May 2019 - 19:56
Saturday, May 4
4 May 2019 - 13:45
4 May 2019 - 14:54
4 May 2019 - 16:21
The white pipe is PEX bringing water in. The green hose will drain water under the van when we are in an area where this is acceptable practice.
The white pipe is PEX bringing water in. The green hose will drain water under the van when we are in an area where this is acceptable practice.
4 May 2019 - 16:26
There are valves in place so the water can drain into this tank or straight through down to the ground
There are valves in place so the water can drain into this tank or straight through down to the ground
4 May 2019 - 18:39
This was the first water heater we installed... that subsequently broke and needed to be replaced.
This was the first water heater we installed... that subsequently broke and needed to be replaced.
Sunday, May 5
5 May 2019 - 12:21
All the propane connections have valves so they can be turned on/off independently
All the propane connections have valves so they can be turned on/off independently
5 May 2019 - 16:19
This cabinet, like the kitchen cabinet, is curved along the back to fit snugly against the van wall
This cabinet, like the kitchen cabinet, is curved along the back to fit snugly against the van wall
5 May 2019 - 17:48
5 May 2019 - 18:20
It fits!
It fits!
Monday, May 6
6 May 2019 - 18:38
Stacy completed our water system! And the propane system isn't far behind, it should be completed this coming weekend. I designed and made the carcass for our bedside cabinet, still a bit of work to go before it's ready to install though.
Saturday, May 11
11 May 2019 - 11:04
So. Much. Glue.
So. Much. Glue.
11 May 2019 - 13:02
11 May 2019 - 13:26
We had no idea when we started that we would need so many clamps. Truthfully, we need more clamps..
We had no idea when we started that we would need so many clamps. Truthfully, we need more clamps..
11 May 2019 - 17:22
11 May 2019 - 18:50
They both like sitting on this little mat in the driveway
They both like sitting on this little mat in the driveway
11 May 2019 - 19:54
Husky Shopvac. Best $25 ever.
Husky Shopvac. Best $25 ever.
11 May 2019 - 20:11
11 May 2019 - 20:12
11 May 2019 - 20:13
11 May 2019 - 20:15
Now we need a bed! Oh wait... so much more to do before that...
Now we need a bed! Oh wait... so much more to do before that...
The bed side cabinet is installed!
Sunday, May 12
12 May 2019 - 16:34
Little did we know at this point that testing and fixing all the connections would take many more weeks
Little did we know at this point that testing and fixing all the connections would take many more weeks
12 May 2019 - 16:36
Checking for propane leaks is a simple matter of spraying soapy water on each connections and watching for bubbles to form
Checking for propane leaks is a simple matter of spraying soapy water on each connections and watching for bubbles to form
Monday, May 13
13 May 2019 - 19:28
This will be storage for pots and pans, dishes, dry goods, etc in the kitchen
This will be storage for pots and pans, dishes, dry goods, etc in the kitchen
Thursday, May 16
16 May 2019 - 18:34
16 May 2019 - 20:50
Saturday, May 18
18 May 2019 - 11:47
18 May 2019 - 12:52
18 May 2019 - 14:09
MEGA CLAMPS
MEGA CLAMPS
18 May 2019 - 14:56
18 May 2019 - 15:40
18 May 2019 - 18:14
18 May 2019 - 18:26
Sunday, May 19
19 May 2019 - 13:57
The bench back leans a few degrees backwards for comfort so you aren't sitting straight up. This little dowel supports it in that position.
The bench back leans a few degrees backwards for comfort so you aren't sitting straight up. This little dowel supports it in that position.
19 May 2019 - 16:43
A lot has happened this week! I designed, built, and installed a cabinet, our LAST cabinet! All in a single week, that's the fastest one yet! Stacy has been putting tons of time into the propane system and now has our stove working! Hoping to have the furnace wrapped up in a few days.
Tuesday, May 21
21 May 2019 - 22:23
Our table will fold up for storage...
Our table will fold up for storage...
Wednesday, May 22
22 May 2019 - 20:04
We tested out the hammock again now that lots of cabinets and what not have been installed. It works!
We tested out the hammock again now that lots of cabinets and what not have been installed. It works!
22 May 2019 - 20:55
We had to park the van on the street for months. The silver lining was sunsets like this!
We had to park the van on the street for months. The silver lining was sunsets like this!
Friday, May 24
24 May 2019 - 10:57
These will become the rails and stiles for the bedside cabinet doors
These will become the rails and stiles for the bedside cabinet doors
24 May 2019 - 12:29
To make sure all the grooves for the cabinet door planks were the same, Adam made this jig for the table saw
To make sure all the grooves for the cabinet door planks were the same, Adam made this jig for the table saw
24 May 2019 - 15:38
Saturday, May 25
25 May 2019 - 18:14
25 May 2019 - 21:05
Thanks friends!
Thanks friends!
25 May 2019 - 23:15
Primed and ready for painting
Primed and ready for painting
Sunday, May 26
26 May 2019 - 11:59
Our color scheme for the van is this grey color and dark blue
Our color scheme for the van is this grey color and dark blue
26 May 2019 - 14:04
He loves laying on the warm asphalt in the sun
He loves laying on the warm asphalt in the sun
26 May 2019 - 17:54
We decided on a metal backsplash for easy cleaning and magnetism!
We decided on a metal backsplash for easy cleaning and magnetism!
Monday, May 27
27 May 2019 - 12:58
27 May 2019 - 17:27
27 May 2019 - 17:28
27 May 2019 - 17:29
The oven, backsplash, upper cabinet and thermostat are installed!
The oven, backsplash, upper cabinet and thermostat are installed!
27 May 2019 - 17:29
27 May 2019 - 17:29
The feet on the back of the bench flip down and support it so we can climb into the bed
The feet on the back of the bench flip down and support it so we can climb into the bed
27 May 2019 - 17:30
4 long days of work and all of the cabinet doors are created and installed! Stacy has completed an absolutely huge number of smaller tasks, working to fully close out lots of systems in the van, including a fully completed kitchen!
Friday, May 31
31 May 2019 - 15:18
Saturday, June 1
1 Jun 2019 - 12:46
Thank goodness for AC outlets in the van!
Thank goodness for AC outlets in the van!
1 Jun 2019 - 12:46
This protects the edge along with silicon caulk and provides water proofing so any water from wet feet up front won't seep under the floor into the insulation
This protects the edge along with silicon caulk and provides water proofing so any water from wet feet up front won't seep under the floor into the insulation
1 Jun 2019 - 15:24
The black screen you can see on the bedside cabinet is the gauge that measures how much water we have left in our tank. The white rectangle on top of the oven is the under cabinet lighting ready to be installed
The black screen you can see on the bedside cabinet is the gauge that measures how much water we have left in our tank. The white rectangle on top of the oven is the under cabinet lighting ready to be installed
1 Jun 2019 - 16:43
The Husky Shop vac helps again
The Husky Shop vac helps again
1 Jun 2019 - 17:21
We need to be able to access the wires for the charge controller + it needs air flow for cooling... this cover makes it all look nice while hiding the wires!
We need to be able to access the wires for the charge controller + it needs air flow for cooling... this cover makes it all look nice while hiding the wires!
1 Jun 2019 - 17:35
Scotch makes it all better
Scotch makes it all better
1 Jun 2019 - 18:15
This dog is not a hard worker
This dog is not a hard worker
1 Jun 2019 - 18:22
This steel plate locks onto the seat for secure storage
This steel plate locks onto the seat for secure storage
1 Jun 2019 - 18:23
1 Jun 2019 - 19:15
Under the Carabiner and next to the AC outlet
Under the Carabiner and next to the AC outlet
1 Jun 2019 - 19:19
Stained and Installed!
Stained and Installed!
Sunday, June 2
2 Jun 2019 - 12:05
Had to remove this to get to the mattress to cut it!
Had to remove this to get to the mattress to cut it!
2 Jun 2019 - 12:36
Our bed area is just a few inches shy of a queen size bed
Our bed area is just a few inches shy of a queen size bed
2 Jun 2019 - 13:09
Van work is exhausting, let's nap in the sun!
Van work is exhausting, let's nap in the sun!
2 Jun 2019 - 13:10
This bed is comfy!
This bed is comfy!
2 Jun 2019 - 13:22
2 Jun 2019 - 14:19
2 Jun 2019 - 14:30
2 Jun 2019 - 18:34
Finally getting to the point where we can just hang out in the van... almost.
Finally getting to the point where we can just hang out in the van... almost.
2 Jun 2019 - 19:20
Lots of finishing tasks. Finally cleaned up the remaining electrical and wires. The mattress is cut. Getting and installing lots of kitchen stuff.
Monday, June 3
3 Jun 2019 - 10:58
Spoiler alert, never got this sewing machine to work
Spoiler alert, never got this sewing machine to work
Tuesday, June 4
4 Jun 2019 - 19:13
Thursday, June 6
6 Jun 2019 - 18:17
Hey... this might work!
Hey... this might work!
6 Jun 2019 - 19:38
Can Stacy even contain her excitement?! Poor Stacy, always tired.
Can Stacy even contain her excitement?! Poor Stacy, always tired.
6 Jun 2019 - 20:09
MAGNETS HOW DO THEY WORK?
MAGNETS HOW DO THEY WORK?
Saturday, June 8
8 Jun 2019 - 15:13
8 Jun 2019 - 16:17
8 Jun 2019 - 17:01
8 Jun 2019 - 19:30
8 Jun 2019 - 19:35
8 Jun 2019 - 22:35
8 Jun 2019 - 22:38
Sunday, June 9
9 Jun 2019 - 11:49
9 Jun 2019 - 14:13
Adam feeling proud of his creation!
Adam feeling proud of his creation!
9 Jun 2019 - 14:18
9 Jun 2019 - 14:20
The table folds up into this position for space saving
The table folds up into this position for space saving
9 Jun 2019 - 19:54
Getting beers at PostDoc Brewing after a hard day of van work, this little pup walked over into Adam's lap to say Hurro
Getting beers at PostDoc Brewing after a hard day of van work, this little pup walked over into Adam's lap to say Hurro
The table is installed!!! This is the last major construction task for the van. There are still a number of small finishing tasks, but we won't have to spend every night after work and every weekend working on the van anymore.
Monday, June 10
10 Jun 2019 - 13:48
Tuesday, June 11
11 Jun 2019 - 19:53
11 Jun 2019 - 21:16
Looking into the van from the outside in the back
Looking into the van from the outside in the back
11 Jun 2019 - 21:16
The bed in its configuration for sleeping complete with our Rumpl Blanket
The bed in its configuration for sleeping complete with our Rumpl Blanket
Stacy finished sewing and modifying all of the linens, so we finally got the bed installed! Lots of small bits arrived from Amazon and got installed bringing us very close to 100% completion.
Sunday, June 16
16 Jun 2019 - 13:26
Space is at a Premium. We decided not to put a shelf here so we wouldn't hit our heads but Stacy needed a place to put books, her cell phone, etc
Space is at a Premium. We decided not to put a shelf here so we wouldn't hit our heads but Stacy needed a place to put books, her cell phone, etc
16 Jun 2019 - 13:43
With our hot water heater installed in the back, we'll shower here while we are on the road
With our hot water heater installed in the back, we'll shower here while we are on the road
16 Jun 2019 - 13:57
16 Jun 2019 - 15:08
All our climbing, skiing, hiking and general outdoorsing gear fits under the bed in these plastic bins
All our climbing, skiing, hiking and general outdoorsing gear fits under the bed in these plastic bins
16 Jun 2019 - 15:09
These 2 love hanging out together while we work on the van
These 2 love hanging out together while we work on the van
16 Jun 2019 - 20:30
16 Jun 2019 - 22:12
We installed a little bungee cord to keep dry goods in place on the counter
We installed a little bungee cord to keep dry goods in place on the counter
Monday, June 17
Lots of small tasks, shower curtain system, mirror, all our gear put in the van, and began filling out the staple foods in the kitchen.
Tuesday, June 18
18 Jun 2019 - 18:42
So many places so little time...
So many places so little time...
18 Jun 2019 - 19:06
18 Jun 2019 - 19:07
Wednesday, June 19
19 Jun 2019 - 12:36
After many weeks and zero communication, our cushion covers were finally delivered.
After many weeks and zero communication, our cushion covers were finally delivered.
19 Jun 2019 - 13:08
All this foam needs to be cut into the custom sizes we need for the bench cushions
All this foam needs to be cut into the custom sizes we need for the bench cushions
19 Jun 2019 - 20:45
19 Jun 2019 - 20:53
19 Jun 2019 - 21:24
19 Jun 2019 - 21:53
Ready to go in the van
Ready to go in the van
19 Jun 2019 - 22:00
19 Jun 2019 - 22:08
The cushions are in place and this guy is happy to sit and enjoy the van
The cushions are in place and this guy is happy to sit and enjoy the van
Thursday, June 20
THE CUSHIONS ARE COMPLETE!
20 Jun 2019 - 20:23
20 Jun 2019 - 21:53
Going to be in a van for a year, I need to have everything installed at once! Stop all the downloading!
Going to be in a van for a year, I need to have everything installed at once! Stop all the downloading!
Bill is helping me upgrade my laptop before we set off in the van for a year.
Friday, June 21
21 Jun 2019 - 21:22
21 Jun 2019 - 21:29
21 Jun 2019 - 21:30
Saturday, June 22
22 Jun 2019 - 11:21
22 Jun 2019 - 14:14
22 Jun 2019 - 15:09
22 Jun 2019 - 15:16
22 Jun 2019 - 15:18
22 Jun 2019 - 15:33
22 Jun 2019 - 15:34
22 Jun 2019 - 15:34
22 Jun 2019 - 15:35
22 Jun 2019 - 15:35
22 Jun 2019 - 16:49
22 Jun 2019 - 17:03
22 Jun 2019 - 17:10
22 Jun 2019 - 17:11
22 Jun 2019 - 17:21
22 Jun 2019 - 17:35
22 Jun 2019 - 17:44
22 Jun 2019 - 17:50
22 Jun 2019 - 18:00
22 Jun 2019 - 18:03
22 Jun 2019 - 18:07
22 Jun 2019 - 18:41
Watching friends to make sure it's still funny in the van
Watching friends to make sure it's still funny in the van
22 Jun 2019 - 20:04
22 Jun 2019 - 20:40
22 Jun 2019 - 21:27
22 Jun 2019 - 23:41
Sunday, June 23
23 Jun 2019 - 09:24
23 Jun 2019 - 09:58
23 Jun 2019 - 10:31
23 Jun 2019 - 11:00
23 Jun 2019 - 12:06