Adding Roof Top Accessories to My 4X4 Van Build

I am converting my 2002 Mitsubishi Delica in to a small, 4x4 off-road mini camper van for one. In this video I complete the exterior of the van by adding a roof rack, tilting solar panel and some spot lights to illuminate the outside area.
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𝐌𝐲 𝐕𝐚𝐧'𝐬 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭: • My Van
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#LandscapePhotography #VanLife #Delica

[@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.

[@MrDeicide1]

Who threw flowers in your driveway ?

[@joemoya9743]

One of the most professional looking van builds I have seen in some time. You are far too humble in your knowledge and ability to fix problems.

[@jarchdm]

How disappointed the thieves will be when breaking into your rifle box and finding your Wellingtons. 😂

[@thejohnlin]

That would be a unfortunate outrage that leads to completely destroy of the van to unleash the anger, so in short, put something valued there please

[@thekitowl]

Looks like thief’s have already nicked his furniture.

[@koolerking440]

Make the passenger seat a pilot chair that turns around into the rear.

[@brutalcrusadermaulgracies4246]

That would be perfect

[@marcinszarmach3582]

Tom, if you ever decide to have a longer break from photography, you can always open your own van conversion business. First client guaranteed here. On a serious note, you have done a fantastic job with the van. Looking forward to see it in your future videos.

[@msmarji]

Don’t forget a squeegee to keep your solar panel clean. It’s small enough to easily fit in the rooftop box.

[@TMPbooks]

Over the past few years, I've watched dozens (hundreds?) of van builds, and this is one of the very best. Excellent work.

[@robf5684]

For me the best bit of this video was the way Tom parked the van properly in the diagonal lines in the completely empty car park at the end. Just shows how committed to attention to detail and perfection he is. The whole video series has been superb to watch, and I'm in awe of the skills and ingenuity shown!

[@rushl.workman7138]

Pure genius! Necessity truly is the mother of invention. Do make sure you have the best immobilizer and alarm system. You are ready for a round the world trip. Happy Motoring!

[@nigelwest3430]

I used to work for a company that made surveillance vehicles, They had a pneumatic mast with a PTZ camera attached, Part of the conversion was jigsawing an 8" hole in the roof of brand new cars to allow the mast fitment...............Very satisfying :-)

[@GregMcDavid]

Your solar tilting solution really is genius... Actually, all your little bits for the solar panel are brilliantly simple.

[@toddsouthern9587]

Looks amazing, great homebrew solutions. Calling it now tho, you will never once be arsed to get on the roof and tilt that panel.

[@rundlerambler6150]

I'm impressed with your handywork. Have to chuckle that the rifle box is for your welly boots.

[@Bluenoteguitar]

Hi Tom, little tip for you, once you drill a hole in a waterproof junction box, its unlikely to be waterproof especially on the roof of your van while your travelling in driving rain. To make sure it doesn't become an issue, pop down to your local branch of Screwfix and purchase a tube of Raytech Transparent Di-Electric Gel, whip the lid off your box, fill with this stuff, water will never get anywhere near your electrics.... simples :)

[@timgillman]

I'm glad you have clamps to keep the solar panel from being caught in the wind. Clever ideas all around.

[@Erwin70000]

Great work on the Mitsuhashi Delica! A bit nostalgic after owning 6 Delicas

[@JJ-fromDK]

Squarespace is the sponsor, but it is you that has build an awesome space, with this van! :0)

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Lol.

[@astralbody]

This is great, Thomas! I have a suggestion, change those roof top nuts to security nuts so you don't have nefarious people stealing the roof box and other parts.... You may want to sheet metal tap screw the junction box to the roof also so it won't loosen due to vibration and a water gap be made. Great ideas! Great work!!!! Cheers, Thomas!

[@couplandsj]

Sikaflex is super strong, it holds most of my Defender together…👍

[@choiceblade]

Great point. Also about those nut holes in the panels...silicon for water seal? Just being a worry wort.

[@TheCredibleHulk]

Regarding your tilting solar panels - you could improve the setup so much more by creating an automated tilting mechanism using a simple 12v rocker switch (or even a 12 remote winch controller) & a 12v linear actuator! It's very cheap & will make your life much easier. With an automated solar panel tilting mechanism you'll be able to position (and further adjust throughout the day) your solar panel at a perfect angle every time, all from inside your van! Which is so much better, since you can look at your solar charge controller, while adjusting the angle, until you hit the sweet spot (the highest voltage reading on your solar charge controller). Bonus tip: an actuator in a closed position is actually really strong, so it can be the thing that holds your panels down too. Meaning that you won't need those Thule clamps you salvaged. You can still use them, if you are paranoid (or when going on super long road trips/highways), but the actuator would normally be more than enough to hold the panel down.

[@keithnisbet]

You're fortunate to get a 2002 model in great condition. Here in Canada a 2002 anything is almost guaranteed to have serious salt corrosion issues. You've done a beautiful job. CONGRATS!!!

[@TerminusVox]

Nice adaptation of an existing product to meet your storage needs!

[@KevinFields777]

I know you said earlier that you didn't intend to start a series about converting a van, but I admire your detail and dedication to make this build yours.

[@dereknash3638]

Just one thing I would add to the Van is a tracker in case somebody rather than nicking the van contents, nicks the van including the contents. If I tried working in our lounge, especially with a light coloured carpet like you have, I would end up living in the shed curtesy of my wife 😳 Notice you did have a Hoover to hand, but lack of furniture.Thoroughly enjoyed the van build.

[@choiceblade]

Cut a grove down the center of one of the joined panel hinges, use a bolt and wingnut, and you'll have an infinitely adjustable panel tilt! E viola! Also, before you build in storage behind the passenger seat consider the charm of using a temporary lucite box for whatever, SO that you can always move it to then throw in a "last mile" transport solution in the still free space... if not an actually bike. Awesome build, really enjoyed the series.

[@rvboondocker2559]

I like the idea of the rifle case! Gives a whole different feeling to shooting landscape

[@chatenetpat]

Magnet hole finder, brilliant!

[@rblast1]

Tom can see the perfectionist in your photography came out in your van build. Amazing. Taking a trip and taking one photo but its perfect just like your build.

[@PilotPhteven]

really enjoyable series. Far too many builds are full on campers for 2-3 people+ usually a cat or a dog, entertainment systems inside and out, full kitchens, king size beds, showers and what not to spend long times in. It's refreshing to see a "one man" camper that's used for a few days in a row to do some photography. It's far more the style I'd have and need if I were to do something like this. And believe me, I've been looking at second hand vans and suv's for a bit since this series started.

[@apierc1]

It's been a pretty good job Tom, not sure I'd have the guts to drill a hole in the roof but kudos. Only thing I'd really like to see improved is a motorised adjustment for the solar panel.

[@storysupport]

I’ve been away from KZbin for a while, so I’m catching the entire build at once...GREAT SOCKS 👍🏿

[@kevinbrown945]

Great video. Quick tip for you from an engineer... you’ve drilled into the solar panel and fitted hinges. It may not look like it as you will have tightened the nuts down but there is now a very small entry point for water. Get some 1mm or 2mm thick rubber sheet, cut down to size, and clamp between hinge and panel. This will stop any water getting in

[@sillymeeee]

As much as I like a photo of a lonely rock at the beach...I really enjoy these van builds!! Don't give up on this content...lets see some camping videos when the van is finished.

[@drfreeman48]

You should consider creating an Only Vans account :)

[@frankieshankly5368]

Very clever tiltfunction, watched so many of these conversion videos but only 3 or 4 have bothered making this..

[@whatsap9684]

Magnet brilliant finder ,i love it

[@clintwoosley9512]

You are A Spirited Man.

[@MountainRoots]

Found you from a comment you left over on Primal Outdoors. Love landscape photography, looking forward to following you around a bit. Cheers! 🤙-Josh

[@kingssman2]

I feel like i want to own a van, and live down by the river. This setup is really nice! peaceful.

[@iqueque]

A better van build than most I have watched. Well done Tom

[@billybraithwaite67]

Thomas Heaton, professional van converter... also known to take the odd good photo. 😉 Seriously really enjoyed that.. take a bow Tom 👌👍

[@russstamp5965]

Brilliant idea with the tilt of the solar panel. As you know from your F4 trip, where I live in the PNW and as your home is, chasing the sun, especially when it's low in the sky during winter is crucial for capturing the sun's energy. Since I'm older, and more prone to forget obvious things, I'd want a band on the steering wheel, hang tag on the rear view mirror, or some other way to remind me that the panel is tilted before heading off. Don't laugh, your day will come youngster!

[@EnglishRon]

You never have to justify your van toys, you are amongst friends and we ALL do the same. Great build and love the registration.

[@brianmckeever5280]

I hope you feel a sense of satisfaction with your accomplishment! I wonder if, like a photographer editing a raw file, a tinkerer may never be 100% happy with the final result? It was a pleasure to watch the process, thank you for sharing!

[@downtownredneck5079]

What a great idea mounting the lights onto the roof box. Kudos, and I'm loving the build

[@michaeltillman886]

What's up Thomas?I don't know what to say. I'm really speechless. What you've done is truly outstanding. My Step Father told me years and years ago, "A man that can do more than one thing will never be broke, be it recession or depression you will always have money. And, he was right. The same thing goes here. If you ever get tired of photography you can do this, and do quite well. This is really tight. Peace dude!!!!

[@AleksandrShtifanov]

Thomas, i really like the way you presenting :) By sharing your thoughts and your humor - it's really a joy to watch!

[@chrisloghry4005]

Thanks for taking us along Thomas. I'm almost inspired to try something similar 😬

[@Bosmanneggie]

You definitely need a big LED bar on the roof (front) Just because it looks cool ;)

[@scotty4418]

You've every reason to be proud of what you have achieved Thomas, as every nut, bolt, screw and fitting has been thought through from a practical and technical point of view and what you have ended up with, to coin your phrase is 'simply stunning'. I wish you many enjoyable and productive trips ahead and as always look forward to what is about to unfold in your van adventures

[@jed23ify]

Did Tom ever give a reason as to why he got rid of his larger van with more practical room and comfortability?

[@scotty4418]

@@jed23ify yes he had his reasons and as I recall covered these in a previous video when he purchased his Mitsubishi

[@lovejanet51]

@@jed23ify He wanted something more rugged for snow and dirt roads, that his previous van did not provide.

[@roscored1000]

I am very impressed with the way you work through your problems and the simple solutions that you find.

[@tanltdowar]

I am glad to see that F11 HTN has reappeared.

[@alangauld6079]

It's interesting that you and Paul Messner are doing van videos at the same time and a good comparison in very different styles of build.

[@seth.graham]

No DIY project is done until a box cutter draws blood! Only suggestion I got for the roof rack is adding a deflector somehow, it'll cut down on wind noise a little bit.

[@rcl-crafter8]

Fantastic! First of all the build is shockingly good - tidy, efficient and very clean. Then, the space you have to work in - wow! Good thing you are thin and limber! You will win ALL that against Gavin! But, I'm afraid he is going to win the comfort votes. Glad you 2 are still friends! Great work!

[@PienVCPhotography]

Job well done! It’s great to see it all come together! 👍

[@JenniferKlinger]

You should add some kind of sign (maybe of cardboard) that you lay on the steering wheel, which says „solar panel is tilted“ or something like that. Just that you do not forget before start driving.

[@Joebnx1]

That is a VERY good idea Jennifer! I worked for a communications company and we had a few cases where a technician had left his bucket/boom out in a partially extended position, drove off and caused $$$$$s in damage to truck and public property! We had to rig a red light on the dash indicating the lift was NOT seated into its stored position!

[@Philip8888888]

Cardboard? That's way too effective, cheap and simple! We need to overengineer it with a siren, digital control box to send an SMS alert and hook it all up to an engine immobiliser!

[@balintszollar]

I'm obsessed with the tires. The van looks so badass geez.

[@ZeLoShady]

Awesome series Thomas! One suggestion, you might want to leave the space behind the passenger seat empty. Might help make the fan "feel" bigger and less cluttered/claustrophobic when spending long amounts of time in it.

[@jgjafo]

You should be VERY proud of that build. Awesome

[@bretthaddock8954]

Tom, Use a A-clamps to hold the solar panel up when you are tilting it. They are small and powerful. I will look forward to you van tour.

[@nigelshort8669]

I love what you have done with this conversion. To finish the outside Please spray your roof ladder in black raptor paint.

[@cleovivas]

You have done an exquisite job in your van. Clean, simple, elegant. Congratulations

[@j-s-m-photographymc5317]

Your all over it mate Good Job the Great thing about your videos it’s not about you it’s about your passion for photography. Keep going and always chase your dreams and passions .

[@dogson5000]

You should be so proud of this as I’m sure you are. Adventure awaits, enjoy.

[@robgreenhill1426]

Excellent. What I did on my Deli. Is to attach extendable poles to the roof bars, and then simply clamp a tarp over them to provide some shelter over the side door from the elements when camping

[@MeAMuse]

2L2 for the windows is always a good shout to keep heat in at night.

[@RM831BC4E4]

Absolutely love this van conversion.

[@peteasmr2952]

Solar is still good to have in an emergency situation so it is still practical. Love the videos so far and you're being particular about everything is likely how I would do this. I love the system you used it actually feels suited for a Van mod. You've kinda re-inspired me to one day do this with a van so I could go on little trips and perhaps get photos. I love how it turned out and have just binged the whole thing. Id finish one and think crap gonna have to wait for the next and turns they were already posted and that happened with each video I am glad cause it was fun to see the whole thing through. Thanks mate I wish you the best on some amazing adventures and getting some awesome photos.

[@danielwatkins1801]

Wonderful and beautiful

[@GuyMrIncognito]

The roof rack make it really look like an expedition vehicle. And those delicas are exactly that. We drove through mi golia with one of those. Large oarts off road. Nice project!

[@andychattaway5620]

Awesome! This camper build series is so good. 👍

[@CalumRaasay]

This has been great fun to watch- I just bought a new van and I’m starting a new camper project myself. It’s also great as a photographer seeing someone building it with the ideas and uses in mind!

[@CookedLight]

Your mrs is very understanding, having a workshop in the front room

[@jamesavickers5961]

The best delica conversions I have ever seen thank you so much bravo grazie ciao

[@davidstorm4015]

I think that you have done a magnificent job of converting your Delica, you've obviously put a huge amount of thought into it and the results speak for themselves.

[@ACTuber]

Now that's Made by Thomas Heaton's 4x4 van.👍👍

[@OlegG5654]

Hi Tom. That's means that the two hands on the right place. Respects!!!

[@rogertaylor2046]

I've loved watching your process, the only thing I'd say (I haven't looked through the comments so someone might have already mentioned it ) but you should measure the height of the van with the solar and roof box on, you might be surprised how low a lot of car park height bars are. :)

[@johnr1960]

Great idea. Do a entire episode on “going to the bathroom”!

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Done 👍

[@kevinjmurrphotography]

@@ThomasHeatonPhoto Lol

[@susanbreau]

I’m sure Gavin could give you a few ideas!

[@christophergrove4876]

@́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ ́ "Exposures".... HAHAHAHAHA!

[@dutchman8129]

Where will you place the flux capacitor, Thom? You are a man of many skills, I am truly amazed !

[@rajeev1107]

the well deserved happiness and gratification is oozing out! amazing job!

[@ryanauburn]

One more for the list, replace the rear door lifters I notice you have to hold it up for a second before it's stable up there. Cheers Heaton great build series. Love the way you explain and describe things.

[@michaeloliver5696]

From Alaska with love Tom my boy. You are a man after my own heart with your “custom” mounting hardware for that Bitchin solar panel. Sure there are expensive brackets and hardware out there for the same purpose but your creative split comes out with every corner, nook and cranny!

[@richardsaunders9097]

Loving the build mate. I would suggest adding a bit of copper grease to the threads of the bolts holding the solar panel/rifle box on. As they are exposed the the lovely British weather the copper grease will stop them seizing and make removing them in years to come a lot easier.

[@wichersham]

Car's number plate says HTN. Pretty nice detail actually, Mr. Heaton. One suggestion on side lights. Putting red filters over white LED lights would be easy on eyes at night.

[@bugwalks3897]

Pretty sweet rig, Thomas. Nice job!

[@andyroyphotography800]

You’ve done very well, vans looking great 👍

[@raphael3790]

Brilliant ! Cheers from Brittany (France) 🙂

[@raksh9]

For someone who says they've never built anything before, you're doing disturbingly well... 🤔 This is easily one of the best van builds I've seen in the last three or four years of watching van builds on KZbin.

[@macsandsquid528]

A great build Thomas. One recommendation for the side lights - They're a bit too far back to light up the doorway and step and in fact will throw it into shadow. Where you originally planned to place at the end of the cross rails will still work, just fabricobble a bracket to mount them sideways. You already have the shaped metal and the practice. Shouldn't be too difficult. Oh, and during the Van tour you can skip the part where you demonstrate going to the head.

[@PierreVignau]

It was a good series! Can't wait for the official van tour!

[@drgunsmith4099]

You do know this camper needs to be in all your videos 😂 great rifle case idea, Iv got a load of them never thought of using them in that way, great video.

[@AndiBlair1492]

You'd better have that lounge tidy for when the missus gets back, or you'll be sleeping in the van tonight!!! :)

[@320dak]

Excellent work on your build!👍 Scary part was drilling a hole in the roof! My sister and brother-in-law wanted a fantastic fan in their brand new van with 67 miles on it. They cutout a huge square hole in it. Fits well!

[@hawkkim1974]

I think you should take this as your side job! You are quite talented at converting van!

[@EdBPhoto]

I absolutely love your Van.... Amazing job.

[@jedthornley7321]

Great vid Tom. You could put a box behind the passenger seat for your boots so you don't get your inside dirty.

[@stuartw312000]

Another cracking vlog Tom and the vans looking good. One tip though as a Caravan/Motor home technician when we got solar panels to the roof, we put th He remaining cables in plastic channelling to protect them from the weather. All we do is secure it on the roof panel itself with either double sided 3m tape and feed the cables in then clip the top all. It's just an idea as we have had no issues in doing it that way.

[@MiniatureHobbyist]

This has been an awesome conversion to watch =)

[@djjurky]

Agreed. Enjoyed watching it just as much as you in the field taking photos

[@ewan5536]

Loving that lockdown hairstyle 👍🤭