• From jsheridan560@gmail.com on NV200: Fitting Diesel heater

    Fantastic really appreciated I was thinking about the NV200 now I will definitely get one thanks again โ€ฆ…from IRELAND

    Go to comment
    2020/06/06 at 5:44 pm
  • From Cliff Cardoza on New Van Ordered...!

    Just discovered your site after much web searching and looking at camper vans, and it’s very helpful. I plan to build a van based on an MWB ducato. Good compromise between living space and parking in the UK.

    Your design is the best I’ve seen in addressing the sitting/sleeping vs storage space for bikes etc. I believe that a garage and shower room are essential but most commercial designs combine this with a fixed bed which limits living space and means you have to sit in the driving seats rather than ‘lounge’ on long seats.

    I would go with your design but unfortunately I will need to access the van from the rear. My car port is covered on three sides, so difficult to access through the side door when parked.

    Have been thinking about a design where the seats/ bed are in the rear and can be repositioned to form a garage (or not) as needed. Also wondering whether to go with the traditional toilet and shower room, or a narrow shower with removable porter potty to save space.

    Could I ask what CAD package you used for the design?

    Good luck with the build. I will be following with great interest.

    Go to comment
    2020/04/28 at 11:49 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on New Van Ordered...!

      Hi. CAD is Sketchup – 2017 version so laptop based not web. Still available on their site. the van was an existing model I imported (dimensionally correct). Porta poti can work well – our loo in this is a c200s which is actually quite small. But is expensive in comparison. If you are not on it, look at sbmcc forum. Its a paid forum but guests allowed 10 posts – more good ideas there than any other site. You could do what you say and have rear lounge and fold up the ends of the seats for a garage. Bear in mind the wheel arches take a lot of space…. All vans a compromise and everyone is unique! No right answer.

      We’ve 90%+ of the parts already – but the van is delayed – was due to be built last week but the SEVEL factory has been closed due to the virus, so probably 2m late, so may not get it till July/Aug…. Who knows!

      Go to comment
      2020/04/28 at 11:55 am
  • From John Reader on Fixing Malaga 3 hot water heater ignitor/burner

    Just found this online, absolute life saver, hopefully get my water heater fired up on gas in no time!

    Thanks

    Go to comment
    2020/04/03 at 3:14 pm
  • From Maurice Couzens on Ford Transit TDCi, low power, low boost (p0235) - Fixed!

    Main agents should not be allowed work on or service motors,
    Two year old with oil leak, had van for four days and decide it was the pipe going in to the turbo.
    Collected van pool of oil on drive , returned to them again kept it for three days took off the oil pan and resealed it, back on the drive and you guest it more oil.
    they then could not do anything till the end of month. Having a little know how jacked up motor with the aid of light found oil pipe bottom engine to turbo split. Main Agent close them down

    Go to comment
    2020/02/12 at 9:36 am
  • From Rusty lee on VAN#2 - "Final" spec and design

    Hi Ryan and Mel lovely to see your next camper ideas. Would be great to catch up with you both.

    Rusty lee

    Go to comment
    2020/02/03 at 9:16 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on VAN#2 - "Final" spec and design

      Hey! thanks for comment. I’ve recommended your bed and the like to lots of people – its still a masterpiece and faultless. Built Van 1 around it!! Hope some of the people I’ve name dropped have been your customers.

      Van#2 very much green light – just finalising the spec of van potentially to order this week…. Little NV will be 4 in a few weeks (!) well used but going strong! Bed in Van#2 won’t be rock n roll or belted, so will be a simple wooden affair… Else you’d have had a visit!

      Best wishes
      Ryan & Mel

      Go to comment
      2020/02/03 at 9:21 pm
  • From Terry Hull on Ford Transit TDCi, low power, low boost (p0235) - Fixed!

    Thank you for taking the time to write up your problem and the detailed process that you followed in order to find the solution. There are so many people on here that post a question, discuss it at great length and then don’t have the decency to let everyone know the end result. You have helped me find the answer to my own problem which, as it happens, was almost exactly the same as yours. So, once again Thank you.

    Go to comment
    2020/01/21 at 3:22 pm
  • From Neil on NV200: Insulating and installing Floor

    Hi what trim did you use to finish around the edge of the floor please great job by the way I’m just doing my nv now

    Go to comment
    2019/11/28 at 8:03 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Insulating and installing Floor

      Hi. Where abouts? In most places, nothing. Over the door edge and rear? If so I used a large rubber stair nose and cut it down and fixed with stixall

      Go to comment
      2019/11/28 at 3:12 pm
      • From Neil on NV200: Insulating and installing Floor

        Yes that’s it around the doors many thanks

        Go to comment
        2019/11/28 at 10:59 pm
        • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Insulating and installing Floor

          Hi. It was Retrofit Flexible PVC Stair Nosings (Colour: Grey,, Length: 100cm,) STPVC-RMP62/39-GRY-100 from https://www.nationalstairnosings.co.uk/search.php?search_query=STPVC-RMP62%2F39-GRY-100&Search= – but they only seem to have the black now. It was massive and needed cutting down (as expected). I was trying to avoid aluminium profile. Next time, I’d use aluminium nosing ๐Ÿ™‚

          Go to comment
          2019/11/29 at 8:03 am
  • From Ken Tiessen on NV200: Curtains and blinds

    Hi- Love your NV build! Mine (US) will be much simpler for travel and painting, but could you give more info and/or detail shot(s) of the cab/cargo curtain rail? (The link is not active anymore) It is aluminum (dimensions?) with your bends- I should be able to manage that with a form like yours. Very much appreciated! Ken

    Go to comment
    2019/10/12 at 3:53 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Curtains and blinds

      Hi. the link http://www.doyourdream.co.uk/2016/04/nv200-fitting-cab-curtain-rail/ has all the info and should work ok? The rain is silent glass 1025 – eg https://www.sg-s.co.uk/1025-rail-only-silver-per-metre That’s all I can tell you? The US van is different dimensions… Good luck

      Go to comment
      2019/10/12 at 4:52 pm
  • From Zak_Mel on Electric Grey Waste Dump (Campervan/motorhome upgrade)

    Hi, Good luck with your new project. I remember asking a lot of questions about the NV200 build. We finished ours and after trying it for a few short trips we decided to move into it full time. Unfortunately the mattress wasn’t suitable for my partner so we had to have proper one. We sold it and we bought a Sprinter MWB which we managed to finish in about 6 months and now we are living in it full time!! All the best!

    Go to comment
    2019/10/04 at 2:06 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on Electric Grey Waste Dump (Campervan/motorhome upgrade)

      Think the NV is tight for full time! We’ve had 6w+ trips but trips/holiday is different than full time where you want rest space as well. The new build will be interesting, it’ll be fully documented/videoed and will be as much as a challenge as the NV as we will want full shower/wet room and onboard garage for bikes and boards all to a “pro finish” (that’s the target) on a MWB! I’m sure some NV tricks will be applied!

      Go to comment
      2019/10/06 at 5:53 pm
  • From James on Electric lift for Rock n Roll bed

    Never mind, I see it has built in limiting switches, obvious when I read the description properly ๐Ÿ™‚

    Go to comment
    2019/09/13 at 1:58 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on Electric lift for Rock n Roll bed

      lol. Yeah – the limit switches on the actuator turn it on/off. The switch is also important, its a DPDT switch which is non latching spring, so is always in position 1 (giving power to actuator to “go short”) and when you press it in it goes to position 2 (giving power to actuator to go up). Use “common” on each pole as + and – and then the actuator croxxed

      eg

      Ac+ V+ Ac-
      Av- V- Ac+

      Go to comment
      2019/09/13 at 8:09 am
  • From James on Electric lift for Rock n Roll bed

    Do you have a basic wiring diagram for this mod?

    Go to comment
    2019/09/13 at 1:35 am
  • From Paul Davies on NV200: Fitting swivel plate and runners to passenger seat

    Great write up… many thanks! Will form the basis of my first job on my newly acquired NV200

    Go to comment
    2019/08/23 at 10:47 am
  • From Karen on NV200: Fitting skylight

    Hi guys,

    Inspired by your brilliant blog I am just about to purchase a NV200.

    Couple of questions about ventilation.

    Do you find that the roof vent is sufficient or would one including a fan help. Also how much do you use the aircon in the cab. As I’m buying secondhand there are not many Accentas with aircon but I have my eye on a Tekna.

    Sorry one more question. If doing this again with all the info you have would you fit a poptop for more headroom , or do they just not work well with solar panels and the issue of ventilation when they are in the down position. I know that there is also the cost to consider.

    Thanks
    Karen.

    Go to comment
    2019/08/19 at 6:39 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Fitting skylight

      Hi Karen.
      The roof light is brilliant, perfect size and good enough ventilation (quad air). Lots of light. TBH – we have the rear and off-side windows covered most of the time…. (On a campsite as we speak, and that’s how we are! Windscreen covered too. Its fine for normal UK temps. We have bought a fiamma fan which is 12v and clips over – not used yet but on our last trip in France we needed it (heat wave!). The cab aircon – yes, we do use a lot if we are in a hot climate… It also demists the windscreen quicker.
      Been on campsite 4 nights (Edinburgh festival) running 12v compressor fridge and with solar only – and current at 103% full lol. So solar for us is essential. As for pop-top… Personal choice. We’d not have one if we did an NV again we’re happy with out, but some others swear by them. 90% of our usage is AWAY from campsites so pop-top not always suitable. We don’t “live in” the van – we’re always out and about. different usage, and you may want one. Or a bigger van! Deffo personal choice….. Get onto the NV200 camper group on facebook – you will get many more ideas.
      Hope this helps

      Go to comment
      2019/08/19 at 7:49 pm
  • From David Miller on 240v Electrics

    Hi, great job on the van! I’ve recently had my Nv200 converted. We’re experiencing some issues with the mains hookup. When hooked up, a static charge builds up on the outside of the van and gives a static shock when you touch it. Did you experience anything like this?

    Go to comment
    2019/08/14 at 1:56 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on 240v Electrics

      Sorry for delay
      No – no static charge on hookup. Doesn’t sound right. My earth is bonded to the chassis and no issues.

      Go to comment
      2019/08/19 at 11:22 am
  • From Richard on NV200: Curtains and blinds

    Hi need help just bought NV200 can anyone help with ready made blinds maybe contact no.also can any one help with best bike carrier tow bar fitted,
    Thanks

    Go to comment
    2019/06/17 at 7:53 pm
  • From Steve Turner on Why Van #2 Idea

    Hi Ryan & Mel
    Wow, what a van and what an inspiration you are. My wife and I have been camping and using as a works car our NV200 for the last 3 years, not a patch on yours but it has proved superb, its on about its 3rd design!now with a raised rear bed with storage below and passenger swivel, its just completed 2 months tour of France,Spain and Portugal. However, like you, we intend to spend more time touring since off loading our business and are now contemplating a bigger van to convert maybe a Ducato mid size, however we’re so reluctant to give up the NV its so cheap to run and so easy to get about. We used your site for guidance before and so now are watching to see which way you decide to go. That said as a last attempt to squeeze more room out of this great van, we are considering adding a removable side panel to allow us to sleep across which I think I’ve sorted and with the extra space this gives us I want to swivel the drivers seat but cannot find out how to either move or lower the handbrake to allow the seat to spin, I just can’t spend ยฃ400+ on a zooom design which I think rises over. Any advice?? Either way many thanks for your advice and stories, genuinely.

    Go to comment
    2019/06/10 at 9:22 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on Why Van #2 Idea

      Hi
      Thanks for the kind words!
      Our drivers seat doesn’t rotate – it would not work for our build. I don’t know if its possible without Zoom… Are you on the NV200 facebook groups – loads of conversions there and I’m sure someone will know if it is possible….
      Lovely to see someone else using and abusing them! Ours will get another months outing shortly….
      We are seriously considering van#2 in September 2020 – life is too short to delay and all that. But we have an improved design on L2H2 which can take bikes and boards and slightly more internal room than the CAD you see on this page. Presently just designing each join in my head so I know what is doable (by me) and designing out things I can’t do. We’ll know mid next year if we’re going to as we’ll be ordering new and getting it on the Sept registration…. The NV will be 4.5 years then, but undecided what we’d do – keep or sell… Problem is its probably worth more <5yo with the Nissan warrantee than 5y1m with no warrantee.... But the bigger van would not be usable as car#2 so we'd either need another car or less work. The latter is preferred ๐Ÿ™‚ Time will tell....

      Go to comment
      2019/06/10 at 9:36 pm
  • From Ellie Robertson on Self Build Campervan/Motorhome index

    Hi Ryan and Mel,

    Hoping you can help! I also have a Nissan NV200 but the combi version which my very clever partner (who is an electrician) is planning on connecting a leisure battery up for me but we cannot find any literature on which wire to connect to from the alternator? The split charger relay we have says to connect to either D or F wire, he’s torn between a blue and a green wire, do you happen to remember which one?!

    Thanks in advance!

    Ellie

    Go to comment
    2019/04/29 at 12:42 pm
  • From Antonio Carella on Self Build Campervan/Motorhome index

    Hello Ryan and Mel,

    Loving your work. I am actively looking to buy and convert a Nissan NV200.
    I am inclined to buy the NV200 car version, 7 seats, as I need a back a seat for my daughter.
    It’s also less van looking for the everyday use.
    What are your thoughts? Would the conversion work on the van based car?
    Thanks a million
    Antonio

    Go to comment
    2019/04/16 at 3:16 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on Self Build Campervan/Motorhome index

      Look on Facebook for NV200 group – many people have used the combi (car) version. Be aware there is more glass, more airbags and different dash options. Also its different tax class. Van is simpler. If you need crash approved seat – only option is the OEM seats left in situ. However you can get belted seats in the rear, like us, but they are not approved (regardless of what you hear) – but they don’t’ need to be. Just be confident in how they are made/fitted. Tough call for kids… (ours vvv seldom used)

      Go to comment
      2019/04/16 at 5:09 pm
  • From nicky edgeler on Fixing Malaga 3 hot water heater ignitor/burner

    I would just like to add that I also have a propex heatsource blow heater that had the same symptons today (would not fire up) which I cured by pushing a tight fitting piece of hose up the air intake and exhaust and gave it a good blow and freed up the sticking flap inside, it now fires up first time…

    Go to comment
    2019/04/14 at 10:48 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on Fixing Malaga 3 hot water heater ignitor/burner

      Ha – I have a post on here with the same fix (blowing up the pipe). Never thought to use a clean hose pipe I always used the exhaust direct (spit). We lived with that for years, but Propex do sell an upgrade to the sensor if it becomes too much of a pain. Apparently it is a (usually) a stuck flow sensor (old ones have a windmill type that gets crudded up). New one has electronic flow sensor. Contact propex.

      Go to comment
      2019/04/15 at 8:16 am
  • From nicky edgeler on Fixing Malaga 3 hot water heater ignitor/burner

    Same for me great advice, just stripped the unit out took out the burner cleaned it along with the ignitor electrode and now all working…

    Go to comment
    2019/04/14 at 2:44 pm
  • From Robert Hardy on Van #2 Inspiration

    Like the ideas a lot, looking to do similar myself sometime soon.

    On an iPad the pictures are over the text, got the general idea though!

    BobH

    Go to comment
    2019/03/29 at 12:47 pm
  • From jamie Zimmer on NV200: Wardrobe and furniture #1

    Hi mate do you have the measurements for the wardrobe and sink units I’m having my hair rock and roll bed made by a company in Birmingham and would really appreciate the information on the wardrobes I’ve been following your build for the last 6 months trying to get my head round the way you did it and I’m loving the way that you detailed everything in your website absolutely awesome well done mate so envious!
    Oh and I’ve got an NV200 exactly the same as yours even to the colour that’s if you still have it as I see that you was going to be getting a large vehicle anyway take care and thanks for the inspiration

    Go to comment
    2019/03/13 at 7:06 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Wardrobe and furniture #1

      Hi
      Yep, still have it, and still using it to the max. Van#2 is (probably) a 2020 project….
      If you are ever in Wiltshire happy for guided tours. The NV is very very tight as you know, so sizing is a compromise. My sink is a CAN FL1401 I think so google that for exact dimensions. The bed frame is 100cm wide, and there is mm clearance between that and the wardrobe and that and the nearside wall. My dimensions of wardrobe may not help as it depends on what you have on either side and how you’ve lined – e.g. if I say 400mm deep, you may only have 380 if you lined it differently…..
      Happy to answer anything specific – but bear in mind the answer may be correct for me, and wrong for you (trying to be helpful lol – though it reads bad!)

      Go to comment
      2019/03/13 at 7:10 am
      • From jamie Zimmer on NV200: Wardrobe and furniture #1

        Haha no that’s fine mate any help I can get is a bonus as I’m a total novice in this field I’ve been looking at a company called Conwy campers who do the complete build for ยฃ6,000 and I can’t justify paying that and that’s why I’m at this stage right now I would be very interested to know how much the camper conversion cost you just for comparisons sake I actually think that given the van is exactly the same as your own I’m going to follow your build to every detail believe it or not even to the lining so I need any info on the lining would be massively appreciated Ryan..๐Ÿ‘

        Go to comment
        2019/03/13 at 4:28 pm
  • From Mark on Home to Bergen

    Hi, What type of vehicle do you choose for NV200 when you buy the Ferry tickets? I know it can fit in car dimensions but I am not sure?

    Go to comment
    2019/02/27 at 4:25 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on Home to Bergen

      Hi
      I priced up car/camper/MPV and gave dimensions where needed, and from memory saw no difference. I know I called up one of the ferry companies and they didn’t seem bothered. So its gone on as camper (if same price) or car/mPV if cheaper. Never got a second look.
      We are under 1.9m and a few times put on the car deck, but a few times pulled out and put with vans. Never an issue. Hope that answers

      Go to comment
      2019/02/28 at 2:30 am
  • From Rob on Ford Transit TDCi, low power, low boost (p0235) - Fixed!

    Great article! Being a Transit owner I have bookmarked your page just in case…
    Very many years ago as a youth, my first experience of car ownership involved a visit to the main dealers; they lied to me, treated me like s**t, didn’t even fix the problem (I had do it myself) & charged me a fortune for the pleasure. I have avoided them like the plague ever since! Your experience with Ford doesn’t surprise me in the least.
    The trouble with modern vehicles is the technology! All those sensors potentially giving false & misleading reports to the ECU. Added to which are the dealers who think they’ll make a few 100 quid out of you when they think it’s an easy job. Or who are incompetent or maybe can’t even be bothered to diagnose the problems properly, when a dedicated amateur can eventually work it out for him / herself.
    Good on ya! I always like a self taught enthusiast.

    Go to comment
    2019/02/19 at 7:19 pm
  • From Mark on NV200: Gas locker

    Hi,
    Have you thought of using a refillable Gaslow bottle?
    It’s the same size as the Campingaz 907.

    Go to comment
    2019/02/02 at 10:32 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Gas locker

      Yeah, had Gaslow on the other van (but 6kg size, didn’t know they did smaller). But with solar/compressor fridge (which is free power due to solar, and easier venting for the location I want); and diesel heating, gas usage is actually quite small. A 6kg calor will last 3+ months for just cooking and water, and hence gaslow not really needed…. Depends on usage – if you have gas fridge or heating, gaslow is a no brainer!. Have to say, if I ever do need to add refillable gas, converting calor to gaslow is trivial – though I’d probably go Gas-it and a bigger underslung tank….

      Go to comment
      2019/02/02 at 10:37 pm
  • From Joakim Eriksson on Leisure Battery Issues & Testing

    A tip. I have had major problems with ctek’s chargers, it seems that ctek doesn’t keep the measure right. In the past, we used expensive chargers, ctek mx7 (000) for our leisure batteries and all of a sudden, ctek thinks it is wrong with all batteries except one. when i use a china charger it works without problems. last ctek charger died without warning about the day.

    Go to comment
    2019/01/21 at 5:11 pm
  • From Zack on Design of Van #2

    This looks quite similar to what you want to build
    https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Volkswagen-MWB-Crafter-campervan/392216360019?hash=item5b51eab453:g:FTwAAOSwsqxcPQXz

    Go to comment
    2019/01/17 at 10:59 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on Design of Van #2

      Some similarities at the front and bulkhead for sure, but no bathroom in that one. Pretty good getting 2+2 and bikes in there though.
      Our design hasn’t been tweaked much in the last few weeks, so we are *almost* there design wise, now just need to find where to source the specific bits ๐Ÿ™‚ Thanks for the link

      Go to comment
      2019/01/17 at 11:27 am
  • From Lowie Van Ermen on NV200: Curtains and blinds

    Hi MQ

    Have you tried the blinds from the spanish shop yet?
    I’m thinking of buying them.

    Lowie

    Go to comment
    2019/01/14 at 2:24 pm
  • From Gerry McLaughlan on Leisure Battery Issues & Testing

    Thats a bummer ! I would have expected more than 2 yrs from your batteries !

    Go to comment
    2019/01/07 at 7:47 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on Leisure Battery Issues & Testing

      Yeah – is a bit odd. The first charger I had (recommended by a supplier) whacked in 15.7v every time the fridge cut in, and took me a while to notice. Maybe that did damage? Dunno. Maybe the batteries aged? They were only ยฃ55 each…. so…โ€ฆ.. lol

      Go to comment
      2019/01/07 at 7:54 pm
  • From Mark Russell on NV200: Getting 12v engine feed to rear

    Hi Ryan. Fantastic blog am just starting an NV200 conversion using it as inspiration / guidance. Did the ctek250 need any other wiring (a D+signal) apart from the live feed from the vehicle battery to let it know when the engine was running or not?
    Thanks
    Mark

    Go to comment
    2019/01/05 at 4:36 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Getting 12v engine feed to rear

      Forgot to say, the Euro 6 I’ve not seen, so *may* have a smart alternator and need the D+ signal wired in. Just measure V+ after a long drive and when VB is charged and see if v>14v. If so it should be fine.

      Go to comment
      2019/01/05 at 4:43 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Getting 12v engine feed to rear

      Hi. Nope. I have the older D250s not the D250SA which wasn’t invented when I did it. The Euro 5 I have (2016) does not have a smart alternator so isn’t an issue. If you are the same you don’t need to worry. The ignition feed is just for the smart alternator functionality (I read the manual a few days ago lol). Mine is just as per blog, + direct to vehicle battery, + to LB’s, + to Solar, and -.

      Go to comment
      2019/01/05 at 4:39 pm
  • From MQ on NV200: Gas locker

    Good luck with your new project! We plan to travel to Europe for a few months and we have just realised that we can’t recharge calor outside the UK. Do you think we can just use the campingaz 2.75 bottle with the same setup?

    Go to comment
    2018/12/27 at 10:00 pm
  • From MQ on NV200: Curtains and blinds

    Unfortunately I can’t find the thermal blinds for the windscreen anywhere…
    Do you know if they still sell them?

    Go to comment
    2018/10/12 at 4:00 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Curtains and blinds

      No idea – they don’t appear on my search any more. I bought from https://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/gll2design – so maybe contact them direct?
      Good luck

      Go to comment
      2018/10/12 at 5:05 pm
  • From Jim on NV200: Fitting skylight

    yes sounds OK. I think I will ask about the monthly service plan myself. Thanks again

    Go to comment
    2018/10/12 at 12:58 pm
  • From JIm on NV200: Fitting skylight

    Ryan /Mel

    I see lots of van conversions removing a section of the roof beam to allow a squarish vent to be fitted.

    One thing that concerns me is the purpose of the roof beam is perhaps there to provide van shell rigidity.

    Having seen so many examples of it done I guess it is OK to do this, but would be grateful for your comments on that.

    I also know that some manufacturers (or their approved dealers invalidate warranties. A major national UK dealership once told me that if I was to repair a faulty window motor regulator in a Renault Scenic myself, that they would not honour the warranty on the car…. but I think they were just being “jobs worths”

    Like you, I am probably going to buy a new NV200 van.

    jim

    Go to comment
    2018/10/11 at 10:11 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Fitting skylight

      The roof struts in the NV do not appear structural – they are more anti-rattle and to give roof some ridigity if you stand on it. I was also worried, but no problem. They are just glued on – so I cut through the bar and then the glue. No issues. Its not for roll over protection or anything like that

      The dealer said “anything you touch may not be covered by warrantee” which is fair enough. I explained what I was doing and they said “well if you cut a hole and it rusts its not going to be covered”. However my build deliberately didn’t touch any of the van drivetrain – apart from the diesel pick up and the battery – but no “changes” made – just my additions added.

      The dealer appeared fair, understanding, and chilled. As well as being well priced – and even a ยฃ15/m service plan (which is dirt cheap).

      Go to comment
      2018/10/11 at 10:25 pm
  • From Jim on NV200: Seat and Bed is here (Rusty lee rock n roll)!

    Hello Ryan and Mel

    I am hoping then that Rusty Lee would have kept the frame measurement detail for your vehicle.

    I can understand your reluctance to give me the measurements because as you say, situations differ but I am going to ask for exactly what you had done; the gas strut release lever etc. So hopefully, he would still have these dimensions recorded. I assume that the NV200 load area width wouldn’t differ across model variants.

    From your pictures and the known dimensions of the van, I can probably work out the width more or less. I would be planning to do as you did; i.e. position the bed, bolt temporarily to the van floor, then work the cupboard space out from that. It looks like the Offside wheel arch width and the leisure battery length subtracted from the width of the van in both the Nearside wheel arch for base width limit dimension and above bed width limit dimension.

    Maybe I will wait until I get the van and start doing some careful measuring from that point.

    You detailed pictures will also be very helpful.

    Anyway, thanks for your response.

    Kind regards
    Jim

    Go to comment
    2018/10/07 at 7:00 pm
  • From Jim Monaghan on NV200: Seat and Bed is here (Rusty lee rock n roll)!

    andy/ mel

    re the rock n roll bed from Rusty Lee

    I contacted Rusty and he gave the same price for the bed frame. I am still at the decision stage re buying an NV200

    Could you give me the dimensions of the frame? L x W x D, please. I would like to put that in place temporarily before then making cupboards etc

    If I opt for an NV200 I will be looking to build using your amazing conversion as a guide. The information you have freely shared is very helpful.
    Thanks
    Jim

    Go to comment
    2018/10/07 at 1:08 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Seat and Bed is here (Rusty lee rock n roll)!

      Hi Jim. I’m reluctant to give you frame measurements as every van build is unique and lots of decisions were made in order to get the bed frame we did – such as what loo, front loo access, loo accessible overnight, belted seat (bolts stick out), flat front, rear NS corner cut out, what the side shape is etc. Some of those decisions affected other elements, like seat height etc. In the NV its all a compromise. An exact copy may be perfect for you, or a tweak here and there may make it better for you. FYI – I built the wardrobe after the bed was test fitted. So not the answer you want I’m afraid! If you are local you can always have a look and see what is similar and what isn’t?

      Go to comment
      2018/10/07 at 2:07 pm
  • From Graham May on GPS POIs Hosted by us

    Hello
    Lots of poi information, but somewhat dated.
    Would you know if data canbe extracted from a poi map such as pubstopovers.
    If so would be great for satnav.
    Regards Graham

    Go to comment
    2018/09/26 at 10:00 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on GPS POIs Hosted by us

      Hi Graham.
      Yes, you are right these are dated. I stopped bothering with creating them when others seemed to take the batten but then they stopped. Also tech has moved on!
      Now, I subscribe to a couple of sources: campingcarinfos – and I use their app ; Wildcamping.co.uk forum (for pub spots, we use a new pub maybe every couple of months) – and archies campings.
      But so many commercial people doing it and overlaps, its a minefield!
      Good luck

      Go to comment
      2018/09/26 at 10:25 am
  • From Mike on Week 7 โ€“ Lake Garda to Home

    Great reading, ta very much. ๐Ÿ˜€

    Go to comment
    2018/09/25 at 7:34 pm
  • From MQ on NV200: Gas locker

    Thank you. I was thinking either bare or through a conduit. I will also use one of them or something similar:
    https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Gas-Level-Indicator-Liquid-Level-Strip-/391488688924

    Go to comment
    2018/09/10 at 12:16 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Gas locker

      No, those strips are just temperature to try and show the level. Something like https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/152686612029 will go between the bottle and the regulator. This means if you turn the bottle off it will show the pressure. If needle drops in under an hour you have a leak!

      Go to comment
      2018/09/10 at 1:30 pm
      • From MQ on NV200: Gas locker

        Hi Ryan,

        I noticed a significant drop during the first night. Needle dropped nearly 10%. However I can’t smell any leak not even in the gas locker. Any suggestions? I tested all the compression fittings and I can’t see anything wrong.

        Go to comment
        2018/10/01 at 7:45 am
        • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Gas locker

          That is correct, especially as the bottle gets emptier. Esp at this time of year, temp drops overnight and need drops, as it is a pressure gauge and heat/pressure are related
          For leak detection which is what I was on about, leave bottle off and appliances isolated. Then the gauge will still be pressurised, and any big drop will show a leak between bottle and appliances (e.g. regulator & pipework). If drop is minimal after 24 hrs, turn each appliance isolator back on – and after 24hrs you can see if an appliance is leaking.
          But with bottle open you won’t spot a leak as the pressure will be topped back up by bottle (unless leak is major and bottle empties!)

          Go to comment
          2018/10/01 at 9:14 am
        • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Gas locker

          With bottle “off” and appliances off?
          10% need drop in 24hrs *apparently* is nothing to worry about. On our old pro-installed system my needle did similar, and they said something like “if it drops in <1hr worry, but drops to zero overnight, don't worry". Mine drops a bit and drops to zero over a week or so (guessing, not checked).

          Go to comment
          2018/10/01 at 8:37 am
          • From MQ on NV200: Gas locker

            Bottle is ‘on’ appliances are ‘off’
            They told me the needle might go down and up depending on the weather temperature.
            Thank you for your reply

            Go to comment
            2018/10/01 at 9:07 am
  • From MQ on NV200: Gas locker

    Hi!! Hopefully my last question to finish the project. I can see your gas pipe is running through the cupboard. Did you use any kind of housing/trunking to protect the pipe? Is it going through the batteries ‘box’ or above it? Thank you!

    Go to comment
    2018/09/10 at 11:42 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Gas locker

      No – think I used a grommet to get it through the locker, but then its just loose and fixed with clips, but is bare. It does go through the battery area and I see no problem with that – it isn’t in a place where it can be damaged. I would suggest a pressure dial on the gas bottle (easy way to know if there is a leak!) and also gas-drop vent in the locker and 50mm+ bottom lip – and seal locker with sealant so any escaped gas can’t “flow” anywhere hidden – except out through the floor.

      Go to comment
      2018/09/10 at 11:46 am
  • From Aras on NV200: Kitchen & furniture #2

    Hi, great project! My question is, the kitchen cabinet surface looks like Westfalia style. The cabineta doors and the skin itself and I couldn’t see any pictures how you made it or did you purchase it as it is? Thank you.

    Go to comment
    2018/09/04 at 7:30 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Kitchen & furniture #2

      Hi
      All totally hand made.
      The top surface is really think formica (ebay) that is just spray-contact adhesive onto bare ply. the furniture board is from grasshopper lesire (I think) – voringer ply (or something like that!) – v expensve : ยฃ120 a sheet but well worth it. Bare sheets of lightweight stuff was ยฃ45 a sheet. The hinges/buttons/trim was either ebay or megavanmats or any other supplier. Its all off-the-shelf stuff. Some youtube videos I watched “how to” – but basically in scrap, make a door the size you want. then screw to more scrap and use as temoplate to make hole (I used 5mm bit) Then use that wood -with-hole as a temoplate on real board – clamp and be careful – and hey presto you have a cut out of a door and a hole (with 5mm gap for trim). Think about it. And practice ๐Ÿ™‚

      Go to comment
      2018/09/04 at 6:35 pm
  • From Camplife on NV200: Getting 12v engine feed to rear

    Hi, I am trying to find a place to earth the leisure battery. They are on the exactly same position as yours. Any ideas?

    Go to comment
    2018/09/01 at 12:10 pm
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Getting 12v engine feed to rear

      See http://www.doyourdream.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/DSCN1618-e1464115643930.jpg for the earth block (silver thing with all the black wires). This is to earth all the switches, heater, sockets and everyting else. (I mostly ran 0v nback to here for things rather than bolting to van body)
      See http://www.doyourdream.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/DSCN1622-e1464115589811.jpg shows the black wire going the same path as the +ve – so up to the D250. Then, as mentioned, the 0v is then taken from the D250 to the van bodywork via existing bolt.

      Go to comment
      2018/09/02 at 9:11 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Getting 12v engine feed to rear

      Hi
      Remember the entire metal chassis is at 0v – so you can earth anywhere. I planned to use the bolt from the load-tie down hook, but (FROM MEMORY) I decided to use a common earth off the CTEK D250S – as basically the engine +12v, the solar, and the mains charger all were near by, so I think I took a cable from the D250 0v and just ran that to an exiting nut that was in the recess. Sanded down the paint a little and crimped an “o” connector over the bolt. (Used 10mm cable). And the battery 0v ran up to the D250. I also took a cable to an earth block on the 12v electric control panel side and then earthed all “devices and cables” to that. Shortest route back.
      Hope some of the images make sense – may be easier to look at photo gallery around the CTEK charger and the wiring. I’m away at the moment on 4g so not able to look.
      Good luck
      .Then

      Go to comment
      2018/09/02 at 9:03 am
  • From angela carr on NV200: Van complete - final pics and video

    fab job but a little tight for my liking

    Go to comment
    2018/08/26 at 5:11 pm
  • From Alejandro Miranda on 2019 and 2020 plans (and more)

    Thank you for such an incredible blog, Iยดm buying a NV 200 and I will follow your ideas step by step. Very helpful all the great details and thanks for sharing. I will use my NV to go surfing around Spain with my 14 year old kid.

    Best,

    Alex

    Go to comment
    2018/08/18 at 9:23 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on 2019 and 2020 plans (and more)

      Thanks Alex, and good luck! Steal what ideas you can, but do remember everyone is different ๐Ÿ™‚ You can get roofracks for the NV for your surfboards. Just put in the basics and enjoy to the max!

      Go to comment
      2018/08/18 at 10:27 am
  • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Fitting swivel plate and runners to passenger seat

    I used https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RACE-SPEC-Bucket-Seat-Slide-Rails-Runners-Glides-Corbeau-Cobra-Rally-Kit-Car/260979541387?hash=item3cc397c58b:g:64AAAMXQY8JRggPP which aren’t 450mm – but work well and has enough movement in the van. I’d say the runners were “perfect size” to be honest. No issues with them at all. I went for “race spec” as I wanted something strong as they are important lol.. The only pain is the width between runners as the provided handle doesn’t work and I had to make my own – and that was a pain.
    Best I could find……

    Go to comment
    2018/08/18 at 7:59 am
  • From Glyn Hudson on NV200: Fitting swivel plate and runners to passenger seat

    How long were the runners you used? I don’t seem to be able to find any matching JDR/seat runners on ebay. Most seat runners seem to be approx 340mm. The FASP swivel seat plate requires at least 450mm runner. Great write up btw, super useful!

    Go to comment
    2018/08/18 at 12:21 am
  • From Glyn Hudson on NV200: Fitting swivel plate and runners to passenger seat

    It’s difficult but not impossible to get hold of fine thread (1.25mm) M10 couter sunk bolts.

    https://www.belmetric.com/sf10x125x30-flat-head-p-6417.html?cPath=6_340_372_1070

    Go to comment
    2018/08/15 at 2:47 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Fitting swivel plate and runners to passenger seat

      Good spot!
      We really struggled here, I installed the seat with an engineering customer with most bolts known to man, and they didn’t have any, nor did a couple of specialist suppliers on the industrial estate. As we were doing it there and then we didn’t look online. But anyone who prepares in advance should check your link as they do look right (and rated at 10.9 which is important)
      Thanks for making me and others aware

      Go to comment
      2018/08/15 at 8:31 am
  • From Zak on NV200: Fitting Solar Panels

    where about did you make the hole for the solar panel cables?

    Go to comment
    2018/07/13 at 11:21 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on NV200: Fitting Solar Panels

      Hi.
      The panel is slightly raised on the brackets (but still lower than the skylight), and under there I have a waterproof box bonded to the roof, and the cables go into the rear side of that then into a hole through there inside the van. The hole is between the wooden bulkhead (where all the switches are) and the internal wardrobe wall – so it can’t be seen internally. Hope that helps

      Go to comment
      2018/07/15 at 7:07 am
      • From Zak on NV200: Fitting Solar Panels

        Thank you very much. It’s very helpful. Finally I managed to find time to start this conversion. Do you know/remember the height of the aluminium brackets?

        Go to comment
        2018/07/18 at 4:10 pm
  • From Phil on Do you need an inverter (240v) in a van?

    Many thanks for solving my inverter thoughts. You’ve just saved me money. I’ll put the kettle on the gas and buy an extra thick blanket

    Go to comment
    2018/06/14 at 10:21 am
    • From Ryan and Mel on Do you need an inverter (240v) in a van?

      Glad to help. Still stand by the advice, though I did buy an inverter last week as my 12v laptop power supply failed and it was easier to get a small inverter to power the 240v power supply I had by chance lol – rather than seek out a 12v special one for this laptop which, in northern Norway was impossible.

      But kettle and the like – gas is the only viable option

      Go to comment
      2018/06/15 at 11:44 am
  • From Andy Hale on Backpacking Hints & Tips

    Bloomin’ predictive. Not chair but cabair. Not rattling but fettling. Doh!

    Go to comment
    2018/06/09 at 7:12 pm