Notes on Merc van conversion.
This is a long wheel base high top Mercedes sprinter that I fitted out for a disabled lady who had a dream of travelling.
A lot went into this van and the owner had the final say.
First is the kitchen, which is made of chipboard and supplied by b&q by the choice of the owner. I prefer making units from scratch out of real wood. In the kitchen is a top of the range 4 ring cooker and grill and a top of the range stainless sink with a smoked glass hinged lid/chopping board. Underneath the sink is a 12 volt cool box that plugs into a cigarette lighter socket.
Next is the ceiling, which is tongue and groove framing a sunroof and 12 volt halogen spot lighting. Running the length of the van above the kitchen and bed is storage for plates, bowls and knick knacks.
The bed unit is housing the 90lt water tank which is accessible from a side door and from the top of the bed. A section of the bed slides out so that it becomes a seating area. At the rear end of the bed/seating area is a fully sealed gas box that holds the gas bottle and regulater. All gas and electric in the van has been certificated by a qualified assessor.
Next to the bed at the rear of the van is a toilet next to the toilet on the left side is a cupboard. A wall in between the bed and toilet slides out to meet the cupboard door when its open, to form a 3ft by 2ft toilet/bathroom to suit the owner’s individual needs.
The whole van is insulated with a diesel night heater (not fitted by me).
There is a small seat by the sliding door that houses 2x 110amp batteries, both batteries are charged by split charger relays running from the starter battery.
The van cost the owner about £5,000 to buy and another £3,000 to get it to the present state. I had estimated about £3,500 for my part of the project so again it came in under budget.
