This post covers all van build progress and changes from November 1st to 30th.
Back in October I mentioned that November would be a pretty busy month for me. As it turns out (without getting too far into the details), I had quite a bit of time free up unexpectedly. Admittedly though, I didn't use this time how I should've, which led to less progress than I'd like. That said, I still made a decent bit of progress compared to October.
From the last update:
Finish the furring strips
Install LVP flooring (already ordered)
Mount wall panels
Connect all wiring to a 12V fuse block powered by the Apex 300
Significant progress was made here. All horizontal strips, most vertical strips, and most of the ceiling strips have been installed. The remaining vertical strips will be done later on (once furniture locations are finalized). The remaining ceiling strips require a bit more work but should be done very soon.
The LVP flooring has officially been installed, and it looks awesome. This was the first visual element that really made the van start to feel "real."
Took about 3-4 hours total
Day 1: Installed most of the floor
Day 2: Used the Mopar floor mat to cut the front section, then refined it
Flooring ends at the start of the rear wheel wells to protect against damage in the garage area
I also installed a stair corner trim piece at the sliding door, which hides the exposed subfloor and flooring edge.
I initially stained some wood panels but wasn’t happy with the result, so I scrapped them. After testing a new stain (dark walnut gloss), I found one I actually like. I’ll use this when I decide to install the wall panels down the road.
I made solid progress here:
Maxxfan, exterior lights + switch, and 1 USB-C port are wired
All connected to a Blue Sea Systems DC fuse block and busbar
These will be built into cabinets later, but for now, everything is functional
Passenger side wiring will be done soon.
Even though the van was already insulated, a stealth camping trip revealed how cold it gets at night. I decided to double insulate:
Ordered another roll of Thinsulate (20 feet)
Stuffed into corners and areas often overlooked
Still need to insulate some large patches once vertical furring strips are finished
The factory ceiling light is finally gone, as it was in the way of insulation and furring strips. I’m now using a photography/filmmaking light as a work light.
I ordered an overhead cabinet from Timber. It's fully assembled but still need to be painted and installed. For now, only one cabinet will go up, but more may be added later.
This has been installed and it’s a game changer:
Charges the Apex 300 while driving (up to 550w, but limited to ~250-300w)
Helps offset cloudy days and long drives
Install was straightforward, with only minor van modifications
Cables are temporarily run across the floor; they’ll be cleaned up during final wiring
With the furring strips nearly done, next up is furniture framing:
Bench seats, cabinets, and storage structures
Kitchen and desk will use butcher block countertops
I’ll be winging most of this, so it may take a while
Also on the way:
Webasto Heater: Hoping it arrives before an early December trip. Install will be time-consuming.
Dometic Fridge: Arrives Dec 1, will be installed immediately (DC fuse block is already wired for it)
That’s it for this month. More soon!
PS: Keep an eye out sometime very soon for another build Short/Reel