Adding Heat & Light to My Small 4x4 Van Build

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

If I reply to your comment. Make sure my name is highlighted and has a tick next to it. There is a spambot out there claiming to be me, leaving comments about Whatsapp and Bitcoin. I'm certain no one here would fall for it, but just in case.

[@sudipanroy3974]

You did so much but you should have opted for RGB lights ahh such a big miss

[@peteryvr8113]

great videos on your conversion and tips especially on safety. just a thought, use undercoating anti-corrosion spray to cover any hole you drilled thru the van bottom metal. This is much better than silicon for airtight, waterproofing and preventing corrosion from road salt and water. happy shooting and camping.

[@darrelltregear756]

Can't you use your fuel tank on your vehicle to run your diesel heater

[@cemhochreiter3000]

Henceforth he shall be known as Thomas Heat-On. Good work mate! :)

[@jayonair]

made my day

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Damn, that's what I should have titled the video :)

[@katoomaheaven]

@@ThomasHeatonPhoto you need to draw air from outside for heater , condensation is a nightmare. Unless your leaving a window open?

[@BarryHansenK7BWH]

@@katoomaheaven fyi, these little diesel heaters draw in outside air to their combustion chamber and exhaust it through a tiny muffler back outside. It doesn't mix with inside air. They blow the inside air across heat exchanger fins. None of the exhaust gas will steam up windows. There may be other sources of condensation but not from the heater.

[@katoomaheaven]

@@BarryHansenK7BWH lol ive been using one for 2 years now. I speak from experience, cycling the same air in confined space doesnt shift evaporated moisture. This is basic stuff ffs. 🤦‍♂️

[@terrilowe657]

You may be a photographer but honestly....I have watched literally hundreds of Van builds trying to help me figure out how to build my van and honestly you are the only one who I can understand and draw from. Thankyou

[@BillyGooding]

Foresty Forest is another good van channel.

[@BorisEkner]

Agreed!

[@MariA-bu2jv]

@@BillyGooding Love Foresty but his electrics make my head spin. This, I can understand and copy.

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

I can't understand anything electronics, at least not now. But the 80/20 extruded aluminum looks like a great idea and minimizes the need to be a great carpenter while cutting down a lot on weight. Very tempting!

[@jes1111yta]

You've put the majority of "professional" builders to shame - bloody excellent job!

[@mcmullaj1]

totally agree!

[@robertgrenader858]

Two things: 1) A remote kill switch for the battery if needed in an emergency 2) Fire extinguisher, one that can handle electrical or fuel fires.

[@flowerchild777]

Important. Thanks

[@ChristopherMay]

I'm in awe of your van build abilities. The attention to detail that you're putting into this is amazing. For instance, the lighting is warm, inviting and comfy. It makes the van the kind of place that a photographer would be happy to come back to after a long day in the field. I've loved this series and look forward to any other videos you produce about the van and really look forward to your photographic adventures with it.

[@DubYahJohn]

Hey Tom, just to give you the heads-up, literally. It looked like your carbon monoxide detector was in a low position, it needs to be above head level. Carbon monoxide is lighter than air, so displaces oxygen from the top down. If it's below head level, you'll be dead before the alarm sounds.

[@Paeoniarosa]

Thanks

[@dah8100]

To avoid spilling in the future, try putting the canister horizontally instead of vertically when you fill your tank. It gives you more control of the flux.

[@namboozleUK]

This is great advice. Someone told me this and I've not spilt washer fluid or oil in a long time.

[@herniedog4641]

Diesel fuel will never stop smelling so good luck with your clean up.

[@coreyc000]

Also put a hose on the canister.

[@adinsx1000]

@@coreyc000 also put the tank on the ground when you're filling, not in the car

[@dmacpher]

Stops the glug!

[@mverick160]

Great job. You're going to want more battery. A few things. Always run 12v on everything you can. When you use an inverter they aren't close to efficient. So you lose power to heat. You should be able to run the diesel heater out of your Van's diesel tank. The heater has it's own pump you just need to get a line into the tank. Not all the way to the bottom of the tank either. Rather have heater run out then vehicle. I'm setting up an econoline now. 2 house batteries. 2 start batteries. Plug in to charge both banks on a reel under van by drivers door so you see it before leaving and 45ft of cord to find a plug. Solar glued to roof. I always recommend a jump pack that's charged to start your van. Just in case your start battery gets pulled. Great job by the way. Inside looks amazing. Gave me some ideas about that extruded aluminium. And the fridge can draw a lot of 12v. Always put stuff in it cold. Never warm. Chest style doesn't lose all cold when you open the door either. Much more efficient. Dometic is good but expensive for fridge. By the way. The fridge can be in the back till you stop. Then move forward out of the way.

[@weschilton]

I'm VERY glad to see you installed a CO detector. While you were doing the install I kept thinking, he really needs a CO detector. Good job! One other thing you should have is a good fire extinguisher. But, really, well done! This is a really well thought out build. I cant wait to see your new adventures (but not as much as you do, I bet!)

[@jessejayphotography]

I would be careful zip tying electric wires to the ends of threaded bolts. Over time if the wire rubs from bumpy roads it could become a hazard. Especially with aluminium frame.

[@andreafisher3965]

My husband, an electrical engineer, said exactly the same thing & wanted me to make your exact comment!

[@4RingsRetro]

Mate you have a future as a KZbin maker and builder, not just a photographer!

[@bergfpv6486]

There you grow. It's like you said; the further out of your comfort zone you are, the more you will grow.

[@tombuck]

I think I realized why I love this series. Your photography videos are about the photo, but they’re also about the journey and the process. This is exactly the same- it’s the process of getting the result you set out for and it’s supremely satisfying.

[@MrMayhemTheory]

Thomas: 'This isn't a tutioral because I don't know what I'm doing.' Also Thomas: *builds top quality mm perfect camper build* This is brilliant to watch.

[@peterfritzphoto]

For someone who hasn’t done this stuff before, you’ve done a bloody good job! Love the subtle lighting and attention to every little detail. Jealous!

[@fingerstylefan]

Man...for someone who says they don't know what they're doing sure did a pretty plush job. Nice work!!

[@WillsWhereabouts]

Literally laughed out loud at that intro 😂. Another fantastic video of a unique van build!

[@Surfinbadger]

I preferred your videos when it was you in the Ford galaxy. It was something different, genuine stealth camping, really enjoyable and interesting. Sorry to say, now it's just another person in another van, and yes, I'm another person in a van too, so kind of a hypocritical I know, but enjoyed the galaxy videos because you had a unique channel. Take care bro

[@spiritrider3348]

The key to keep you from getting sick off van life is ' fresh air'! Supprising how bad used air will keep you awake at night! Those little 5volt usb fans work a treat for curculating air and draw stuff all. I have a sunroof in my l300 delica with shade cloth to keep the bugs out. I always draw in fresh air and love my van experiences! Love your set up, its very clever for a novice! Fresh air bro!!

[@BriManeely]

RE: The fridge-- If you'll allow me to dispense a suggestion. As a tiny home owner I was battling with the fridge idea for some time, but last year had a great, aaaalmost zero tech solution that has been nearly perfect. Get yourself a nice cooler! Something like a yeti. They're the pinnacle of insulation (something all fridges lack). They can keep ice frozen for the better part of a week, are relatively affordable, portable, function as an outdoor seat, and have zero battery drain. And honestly, being in the UK, your ice (or more preferably, freezer packs) should last even longer. Anyhow, my two cents you didn't ask for. The van looks great, though! Well done!

[@jamieforsyth4804]

Yep,i totally agree with using a coolbox and Yeti probably make the best.

[@Rahulsmanral]

You could even check out Arctic coolers. comparable to yeti at a slightly lesser cost! A good 35l cooler should do you good for 2-3 days

[@JohnathanAulabaugh]

Most Rotomolded ice chests are fairly equal, Yeti being the most popular and also most expensive is the equal to many other brands but seldom actually "better"

[@BriManeely]

@@JohnathanAulabaugh fair point! I guess I more intended to refer to that "yeti style" of cooler. I'm not convinced yeti is the best, or even the first, but probably most recognizable these days? I don't actually own a yeti myself either 😆

[@JohnathanAulabaugh]

@@BriManeely without a doubt. And each to their personal preference. I’m partial to Engel but have tested yeti, orca, and pelican. All were exceptional. My personal chests are the Engel 80 and the 30qt dry box. Given the choice for inside a living space I’d prob shell out the cash for a dometic chest fridge though.

[@scarlett8844]

"cupboards, hatches, latches, doors, locks and table tops" poetry, and completely stuck in my head

[@StevenLawson]

For someone with no experience you've done a cracking job on the disco bus 😂 Top work Tom

[@АлексейЗахаров-ч7ш]

Митсубиси,, Делика,, молодец, мы в России любим эту японскую машину 🚙🗾🏕️🎎 для рыбалки и охоты и для путешествий! Оборудовал отлично! 👍🏽🔥👌👍🏻👍🏼🤝👏🛶🎣🇷🇺🇨🇦🇯🇵!

[@PokieTrove_com]

Van life is intresting. does not distract from your photography, actually, it adds, its all part of the adventure and motivation.

[@richardlynn5480]

You should install a Swivel on the passenger seat. Will make a nice place to sit.

[@gary4307]

Beautiful van build I really enjoyed your video. As a person who has worked 40 yrs in the electronics trade please consider wearing safety glasses when you solder or drill, it can save your vision. Great workmanship on your project!

[@jwashervisuals]

Lost my mind at that diesel pour... hilarious stuff. Loving this series!

[@davidmaloney5901]

Hard to believe this is your first van build. All looks very professional to me.

[@angelovillasanta2606]

This is probably the best off-content content I've ever seen in any channel I subscribe to.

[@ginkgoLOL]

I came for photography and got home depot and car stuff, nice! Always fascinating to watch people venture into the unknown!

[@ryanmadaris6940]

This is probably my favorite series you've done. Looking forward to seeing the landscape photography again though!

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Looking forward to shooting landscapes again!

[@hawkkim1974]

I never expected to see Chinese Diesel heater from this channel! Life unfolds in mysterious ways!

[@nickdanne7270]

Love to see a few minutes dedicated to images of finished interior. looks fantastic

[@bradleyzimmerman4184]

You definitely are not a lazy man. Pretty impressive project. The finished look is nice and homey. Now all we need to see is every nook and cranny of all the "Off the beaten path" areas your country has to offer. Keep that shutter firing. Cheers!

[@chrisbull6244]

Hi Thomas, don’t forget to fit a smoke Alarm 🚨 has the CO DETECTOR BEEN FITTED IN THE CORRECT POSITION in accordance with the manufacturers guidance, as it seems very low, also. It would be amiss of me not to mention that as I am part of Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue.

[@danielangelov91]

You were my motivation to go out. Now you are my motivation to start building stuff as I'm clumsy as hell. Great job, thank you!

[@raunak.u]

I don't have a van but after seeing this I want to build one.

[@yudi.g]

for the self proclaim a photographer. your doing a great job for a car builder, maybe this is your hidden talent

[@maxwellwellmax878]

That thing reminds me of the Tardis, Looks bigger in the Inside than the outside :D.

[@rickbrowne519]

Incredible job fixing up this van! And just think - now you've got a sideline occupation: van conversions!

[@antonoat]

Illuminating!😀👏👍😀 when pouring fuel or any liquid from a top up can make sure the opening in the can with the fuel in is at the top ( you had the opening at the bottom corner, hence the fuel coming out so quickly) turn it through 180 degrees and you can pour with much more control! Cracking job with the whole job, camper looks fab.

[@photography8868]

lol "are you with me!" 11ish. yes, yes I am... hanging on to every word and chuckling at the appropriate moments. I feel your frustration. Great contents.

[@drich6719]

I have been waiting for the next installment every day! Love your problem solving approach and logic, and I am seriously impressed with your armoury of power tools. Let's hope that your photographic gear doesn't need massive attention before you get back on the road.

[@samjackson2868]

I have lmao he proper cracks me up with his chat but his can do attitude is beyond compare.

[@atimney]

Came for the photography, stayed for the craftsmanship, top job

[@AndrewVaughan]

Looks amazing, I love the indirect lighting. Just FYI, I have *never* been able to keep my LED light strips stuck on, and have always had to resort to the little clips that came with the strips. In my case, I was hanging them on the underside of wood cabinets...hopefully they stick tight to your 80/20 framing and don't give you any grief. If not, though, I'm sure there are some clips that you can use to supplement the adhesive if you find you need it.

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

I didn't show it, but I have added silicone along the edges for additional support. Hopefully that will do the job.

[@3DWHIZZ]

@@ThomasHeatonPhoto I used little spots of hot glue. Did the job. :)

[@jimmiller4951]

One important step most people are unaware of is a product called 3M adhesive primer . I use it on anything that needs to stick . I am giving this information for free of charge....

[@3DWHIZZ]

@@jimmiller4951 free of charge?? How heroic

[@jimmiller4951]

@@3DWHIZZ , Thank you it is my goal to help as many people as can be helped " free of charge "... LoL

[@jeeping32810]

I know you said this is not a how to... but it is a motivator. Mine is my shipping container office/bike garage & zone! So consider yourself a person who helps others get up the confidence to push on with a project! Love the vids, love the sandal SOCKS!

[@herniedog4641]

You need a reservoir to hold your diesel tank to protect the van from spills.

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

I'm thinking a metal tank to hold the plastic tank. Thank will be much better.

[@GoProGnome]

@@ThomasHeatonPhoto check out race car fuel cells. Keeps things safe in the event of a crash.

[@barrydewhirst3947]

Bunding 👍

[@JimHep]

If I had a van I would want the build to be this clean. Probably the best build on the internet. 👍 Also, as far as fridges go, the compressor is key. Look for a Danfoss compressor specifically. Never let me down.

[@southernfriedheathen994]

He says "... because I don't know what I'm doing with van building..." while sitting in the most spectacularly built van, that HE built. LOL

[@yeknommonkey]

started out thinking ooh, I'm going to do this, and about 20 mins In I can tell I'd mess it up with my impatience. beautiful attention to detail.

[@JasonLorette]

"3 days...I'd rather be cold"...ha ha! The lighting really brought it together, really nice! Well done! :)

[@fiizzy3884]

Your attention to detail is incredible, but I'm not surprised, you're the same with your photography. I wish I could have that same dedication, but I know myself, I'd just shove things out of the way and think that was good enough (something I'm trying to stop doing). Beautiful van, if you ever get bored with photography you could certainly make a few bob doing this.

[@nigelchristensen7001]

Christened the van with Diesel, that's a new one, St. Thomas.

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

That would be a good name to christen it with, Van Diesel.

[@stephenburgess6303]

You may say you know nothing about van building, however, your eye for detail shines through..... great job

[@reedmeredith1994]

Hey Thomas, great build! Just FYI: The rear seat belts are really easy to unbolt and tuck into the trim, where the seatbelt retractor thingy lives, it hides them but means they are still there, incase you ever need them 😀 I did this on my Hiace Regius, and it looks much cleaner!

[@nerrelloader4226]

Wow, you've done a super job with your van build. The time you've taken to pre-plan every little facet of it, really makes all the difference. You should be really proud of yourself. Cheers!

[@andreasstein421]

I survived the Power Waffle! (Sounds like a shirt^^)

[@jacobhuebert8298]

Really appreciate the quality of your last few videos. Your old videos were great already but I've definitely noticed improvement.

[@dwgelle]

Great job! My one concern is the diesel tank being inside. Fumes, expansion, heat/sun and such..... be safe.

[@FloridaNativeMike]

Cupboard lights! So simple, but what a great idea and I haven't seen a build with them, yet!

[@aarjaycee3601]

my sincere apologies to everyone, I didn't mean to startle you all when I gasped when the diesel was spilled Still a most informative and entertaining video diesel spills aside

[@profharveyherrera]

You said you had no experience what so ever building vans, well, your build would ashame a lot of professionaly build vans, is so neat, clean and space efficient. Congratulations!

[@RDBeerman]

"I'd rather be cold" Had me dying of laughter

[@markdolby]

Second that! Also couldn't help laughing when the diesel went everywhere! Sorry Thomas!

[@rangertommy]

I've got a 97 L400 Turbo Diesel, and am also a climber (trad and sport). Talk about the ultimate climber-mobile! I've also got a teardrop trailer that I tow behind, but watching your series of videos showing the evolution of your Delica, I can't help but feel the urge to do a conversion, whether I need to, or not. Great work, man! Really great!

[@acmdv]

Sorry mate just couldn't stop laughing at the diesel spill - so saw that coming.

[@cuebj]

The splash was inevitable the moment he started with doing it in the car and with the can at that angle, wasn't it!

[@acmdv]

@@cuebj Yep :)

[@a.w.thompson4001]

Thanks so much for sharing the realities of inexperienced building. With beautiful results! I think I'll probably just cry in frustration throughout my conversion. 😉

[@SteveMillerhuntingforfood]

I love the smell of diesel fuel in the morning.

[@Sekhmet6697]

Wow! I had no idea one could do such a comfortable build on such a compact vehicle... now I’m considering getting a small 4x4 van myself! And detail looks amazing, probably on par with a professional build!

[@Bolton115]

It's better than a lot of brand new rigs you can buy. He really did a fantastic job! My only caveat would be that those Casco cig lighter plugs are pretty unreliable, he might want to consider a more hard wired approach. But hey, if it winds up being not broke, then don't fix it :-)

[@Borosescu]

I like your channel, found it very interesting. In regards with your diesel heater installation i think the option that you gone for in terms of powering it is a bit wrong, well not necessarily wrong but if you convert 12v in 220v and then back in 24v is a lot of energy that you loose. In the conversion. Personally i think the best way to do it was to start it on the van battery (it can supply enough for the heater) then you can switch it on your power bank. This way you won’t loose energy in the conversion. So the energy from the power bank will last longer. I hope that make sense. All the best.

[@olegjash9276]

Mitsubishi Delica - лучший авто - всех пейзажных фотографов (!) даже по дорогам России!

[@williamwalters3796]

You know that thought when you start a project? “It’s just going to take a few hours.” Or “It should be done today” Next thing you know it’s days later and since then you’ve made limited progress due to parts you still need or other unforeseen complications and multiple trips to the hardware store.

[@zenphotojourney]

So true!

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

It's incredible how the videos don't portray this. I could make it look like i built the van in an hour. I started filming 3 months ago and it's still not finished :)

[@Jeff-jg7jh]

@@zenphotojourney Luckily I can see the hardware store from my house. I might go there four time in a day. It would help if I was a better planner.

[@zenphotojourney]

@@Jeff-jg7jh lol the hardware store personnel are saying, " Here comes Jeff again. Our number one customer. " 😄

[@CheeseOnEverything]

that happens so many times for me especially trying to put solar on my rv rn

[@MicksGarageDarts]

Watching these as my son is considering a Delica and building it up for touring etc. Mate you have done a ripper job. The van turned out really well you should be proud.

[@zongmuas]

First few seconds i was like “oh no, thomas has lost it” LMAOO

[@isotechimages.9130]

We blokes all like to think we pretty handy but must say you done a great job of it Thomas most impressive, enjoy the van.

[@evgeniydeus8137]

And then he'll discover Arduino. "Three months ago I knew nothing about Arduino, and now I have a bunch of automated stuff")

[@simonhorton6679]

Whilst pouring from containers turn them on their side, it’s stops the surges :-) Enjoying the camper van build. Something different is good.

[@annabelhall543]

This van is so good. Its functional, looks alreet. All a person needs

[@jrcandela77]

to not to know what you were doing...you have really smashed it!!! you are a proper McGiver mate!!! Congrats!!!!

[@sn00gums]

I came for the DIY video and stayed because of the hilarious intro.

[@jefffiles9209]

Exploring nature with Thomas Van Diesel! Like spilt milk, the smell lingers, but will hide the smell of not washing 🤭 Been fascinating watching the build come to life and look forward to seeing it in action.

[@orange13]

have you considered powering the Diesel Heater from your car battery? it won't have an issue with high start-up draw while the glow plug is on. You could even wire in a switch to toggle between the car and 'house' battery: Flip it to 'car battery' position during startup and shutdown and leave it running on the 'house' battery in between.

[@AhmedFrazKhan]

Great build, love it! For a guy who claims to have never built anything, you were awesome! Lotsa luv from Pakistan!

[@valdius85]

The waffle about the leasure batteries was very informative. I did listened to all if it as I am considering buying a battery as well. I had similar worries to yours, but no real life experiences. Thank you for adding that in :)

[@kenyoung5604]

Thomas, I have watched all 4 of your videos. I really enjoy the way you poke fun at yourself. I also want to compliment you on your voice and music selection. So many of these videos have music that one must mute the audio because it detracts from the subject manner. Your voice is well suited for narration! I’m getting ready to start a van project in the US. I have watched a lot of videos to “steal” ideas. You did not disappoint me. I’m working with a full size Ford van, but I fully agree that if one looks to the details in areas that will never be seen, a quality job will always be produced. Great videos, very entertaining! Cheers!

[@pasapucha]

Glad that you installed the warm led light, after all you are a photographer :)

[@TJackSurvival]

This whole series was awesomeness! I’ve been watching it front to back!

[@paulgrieger8182]

I am a lorry driver (semi truck in the US) and used to do "over-the-road." I bought and burned up 2 Coleman portable refrigerators. The plugs melted due to the high current draw. My 3rd was a Koolatron, which turned out to be a much better unit.

[@FreddeLamotte]

Glad you clarified the socks issue, it was confusing me the whole time :-) - Great job !!!

[@catherinehughes3740]

Fantastic job , you ever need another profession you’ve rocked it in van renovation. Heath to enjoy Thomas .... hope Mrs Heaton gets to come along on your “ photography journeys 💕

[@voetbal12]

Pretends he's never done anything like this before... makes the best van build anyone's seen

[@dingfeldersmurfalot4560]

In an earlier video he said he had built a van before.

[@photoartist359]

I don't skip ,I watched all every videos and I have downloaded all videos 😍❤️ love From Myanmar .love you sir . We don't get internet all time military 😭 coup ✊ is bad but still can love you hiding somewhere in Burma Myanmar 🆘🙏😍😍❤️☯️

[@pincus321]

It is good that you attached your leds to the extrusions as they form an excellent heat sink. Enjoyed your videos. You did a good job.

[@sheilasaxton3836]

I love your sense of humor-you make me chuckle

[@peem1244]

Van is awesome, indeed. I'm a big fan of extruded alum so very interested on your usage. Great job. Wee tip - whenever you're pouring liquid from a container, regardless of container shape, keep the spout uppermost as much as possible. With you slim diesel bottle which comes with the heater hold it on its side when pouring. Stops all that glug glug business. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe and keep up the good work.

[@mtblifer]

Thomas, you need to buy a battery operated fuel pump. You can find them on Amazon. They are cheap and fix the diesel spill problems. Also, make sure you are sealing the exhaust outlet with high temp sealer where the exhaust pipe connects to the heater exhaust outlet. It leaks if you don't. Great build!

[@GirdHerd]

I'm amazed at how well it turned out. I've heard that a lot of diesel tanks leak when the fuel line fitting is installed in the bottom of the tank. Several experts suggest getting a metal fuel rod that it installed in the top of the tank and pulls the fuel from the bottom of the tank.

[@Cookerab]

You should be an "offroad photography travel van builder." Well done.

[@tomaswmitchellphotography]

I have years of experience with electrical, mechanical and carpentry and after watching you do all this I've decided to turn in my man card. What you did was amazing and honestly way out of my league. Well done Thomas!

[@ian-robinson]

Good to see the carbon monoxide monitor going in. Having had to drag two builders out of a garage due to CM poisoning it’s a must have.

[@kpj5]

Going goal zero myself, great to hear someone doing the same