Bringing This TINY HOME to LIFE! | VAN LIFE BUILD

Ready to witness a cargo van turn into a home? In this episode I tackle the difficult tasks of building the overhead cabinets and installing a complete, OFF-GRID electrical system in my van conversion.
Let's see if I can pull it off!
RedArc Manager 30:
www.redarc.com...
Xantrex Freedom XC 2000w Inverter/Charger:
www.xantrex.com...
SolarKing 200ah Lithium Battery:
www.solarking....
Smart Battery Isolator:
www.redarc.com...
LED Lights:
www.amazon.com...
Support me on Patreon here:
/ maxandoccy
Subscribe to the build here!
/ @maxleeandoccy
Subscribe to Max & Occy here!
/ @maxandoccy
Follow me on Instagram
/ max_bids
Once completed I will move into my van to join the van life movement in Australia, allowing me to live, work and travel full time! I cannot wait to get out there and overland Australia 🙌🏼
WHERE DO WE GET OUR MUSIC??
share.mscbd.fm/... ⬅️
⬆️Get a 30-day free trial for the best music for your videos!
Want to EDIT like us?? This is what we use! bit.ly/2Px8tfk
Want to be more secure online? Get Surfshark VPN at Surfshark.com/..., Enter promo code OCCY for 83% off and 1 FREE month!
#vanbuild #tinyhouse #offgrid

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Hola amigos! So stoked to have this done and loooove how my home is coming together! Sorry again for the delay in getting this to you. Remember, if you want updates 'in between' the videos, follow me on Instagram as I put stories up there (including letting you know if the video will be delayed) -> instagram.com/max_bids/?hl=en Have a great weekend and I will see you for the next one! 🙏🏼❤️

[@maxwellcolfax4933]

Dude - I feel like I can speak for the group (🤭) when I say you don't need to apologize. We're happy to see the videos as you're done with them. Again, I am impressed with all you've accomplished. Everything is so neat and tidy. Another job well done! "And this cupboard, very nearly ready to go. And me - ready to go." 😁

[@michellebenfield9953]

Max I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one, but it's ok to not upload until u can.. We really just appreciate you sharing!! Love ya from the USA

[@suzannealcantara7725]

What delay? I was expecting you on Sunday. Your overhead cupboards are going to be awesome. 👍 to dad and Judy for their help. We love how your home is coming together too. Great work, Max.

[@sophiemarcaurele]

Meh. Sometimes it’s okay to be unpredictable... as we say, “se faire attendre, c’est se faire désirer ( that’s your French lesson of ze week 🤓) Speaking of languages, mate, your Aussie accent is getting girthier by the week or is it me? I love that you took the time to explain the electrical: in fact, I was wondering if you’d consider drawing a diagram and link/list the parts? I’m sure many would appreciate that info as well... It find it kinda intimidating, but I’d like to do it myself and hope it looks half that tidy! 👌😍🤗

[@tka3332]

Its ok👍, just don't stop doing videos..I can't wait until your finished to see your adventures ❤ where are the 🐑🐑🐑😂

[@Knowfere]

I do wiring and circuit board soldering, crimping, sleeving, connectors ect for NASA and I can say your connections look perfect

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Woah, Linda for starters that is bloody epic, go you! Reckon you can get Occy here on a spaceship? 😉 And secondly, thank you, I really appreciate that! 🙏🏼❤️

[@tamo9520]

Wow! What a fantastic sounding job Linda! Awesome! Good for you!

[@lilredmama8231]

@@MaxLeeandOccy Occy in a spacesuit would be the cutest

[@angelabay-jespersen6205]

Max & Lee but Occy CAN’T go without Max!

[@nickrachjames]

@@MaxLeeandOccy I 2nd the spaceship idea! Can Occy fly by himself and I don't mean the spaceship? Id be scared if he was but they probably make you go get him huh?

[@post_up_d2750]

14 years as an electrician and i don't think i ever wired anything that neat, i now have an inferiority complex..... Great work.

[@KestrelGTX]

You're doing such a crazy awesome job! Not only building on your own but filming and editing. Impressive.

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Aww thank you!! 🙏🏼❤️

[@RoamwithRach]

Their videography is SO good!!

[@davidharper1872]

This is so much nicer than Eamon and Bec's new van. Your attention to detail and craftsmanship are truly amazing! Looking forward to every new episode. Keep up the good work, and stay safe.

[@avivamae5171]

Love how supportive and positive your Dad and Judy are, you're very lucky.

[@alanhudson8718]

Max you honestly have the patience of a saint , love the music and the build is looking fine.love Barb and Dad. xxx

[@hallscroft]

Your attention to detail is phenomenal! Everything is so well thought out and neatly done. Your van is going to be absolutely stunning.

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Aw thank you!

[@lesstoddard6779]

I worked with electrical for more than 40 years. Max you’re doing such good work and thinking about it first is saving you so much rework time. Keep doin’ like you’re doin’!

[@andreasaurman480]

Holy crapoly, I have no idea what you were talking about through half the electrical stuff, but dang I sure watched it. Don’t think I’ve ever seen so many wires. Absolutely love what your doing to your home. Thank you to your dad and Judy for helping and supporting you.

[@linshannon4480]

Yay for Dad and Judy! The cabinets look great, and you've apparently mastered the router in one easy step! Grats! Glad to see the leaps and bounds your making toward the finish.

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Legends they are! Thanks Lin 🙏🏼❤️

[@benkaftan8911]

Dude. Max. Great job. As a musician I really appreciate your music but most importantly the time you take to match the beat of the music to the videos you edit. I think it takes your videos above and beyond.

[@jmk1962]

Agree the music really adds to the feel of the video

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Glad it doesn't go unnoticed mate!

[@jacquelinehowell1485]

Max, I have never met you but feel sooo proud of you!! When you sat with your beer at the end of the video....you had a genuine smile on your face. Great job. WOOHOO Occy is going to be blown away...Jackie from Newfoundland and Labrador...Congratulations!!

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Aww thank you Jackie!!

[@vantabulouslife5704]

Thumbs up mate. Looks fantastic. I am ashamed to say I havent put up any of my build vlogs but like you we are building a self contained of grid camper. 310 watts of solar, 240 amp hour of battery. Composting toilet, rain water catcher, recycling water filtration system and refillable gas. Should be finished in about 6 weeks.

[@nicolanicola1520]

Max you are doing a fab job!!! I can’t wait to see you and Occy reunited and living the dream in your new house on wheels! ☺️

[@thelawman]

I think this is your best episode by far. Your attention to detail for an amature is incredible. Another comment from the lady working at NASSA will be making you incredibly proud. Your doing so well, almost there. Well done

[@cathywarriner]

Looking great! Thanks Dad & Judy, those extra hands are awesome 👍 I have to say Max I love the way your videos start, so neat, also love the way you say router 🥰

[@MrLebro11]

Proud moment...you just created power!! Well done! And it looks neat and tidy. And those tight angles on you cabinet build were not lost on me. What a difference when you’ve got the right tool for the job. And thumbs to Dad & Jud doing the heavy lifting👍

[@joyvonguerard9653]

Dad and Judy, the van heroes!! Keep the vids coming Max, I started watching Eamon and Bec 2 years ago but you're my favorite now ☺️

[@suzannealcantara7725]

Love how you mention your screw up's. Not everything is smooth sailing. You always keep it real and I'm sure other people doing van build's appreciate it.

[@traceyjennings4361]

Shout out to Dad and Judy! Max loved how great you did on the overhead cabinet build. You are truly doing a service with this build that I believe will help so many in their own builds!

[@naomisee789]

Max, you're a good teacher. Thank for sharing what you are learning with us! You're like the brother I wished I had. 😊

[@kathyl5610]

Thanks go out to Judy and your Dad for the great help getting your beautiful cabinets up! Your van is looking spectacular!

[@mkaber2]

Every video I realize that, although I have NO plans to ever do any of the work you're doing, you put everything together and explain it all so well that it's still incredibly interesting and enjoyable. I love seeing the progress and it looks amazing! Shout out to dad and Judy too!

[@JAYSLOVIN]

👍👍 Double thumbs up to Dad & Judy (Whoot Whoot). Max it's looking quite tidy in there. You should be proud of yourself mate. The end of the video with the lights on says it all.🤟

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Thanks mate!!

[@CainCorvinus]

love the wholesomness of our videos buddy. I love getting update videos and appreciate all the hard work you're putting into making them on top of building a new home!

[@MaitenaOdriozola]

the way your perfectionist mind works is fascinating

[@jillstevenson413]

I ❤️ my router also. I wear a kitchen apron when routing - saves on laundry. You are doing a great job and I love your ‘down to earth’ explanations.

[@jmk1962]

Great idea

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Great idea! Love that. And thank you 🙏🏼❤️

[@ILOVEMEW10]

There's a lifetime of good and safe times in your beautiful Home❤ You've done a fantastic job.

[@pebblesdd4947]

and a big thumbs up for dad and judy! The build is gorgeous. Attention to detail so spot on. And that router work - bad in the very best way. Enjoying your journey and how truly educational you make it. Inspired! Missing the sheep...

[@sculptor210]

Max, I am beyond impressed with your craftsmanship. To coin a phrase from the south (USA), them cabinets fit tight as a gnats butt on a lemon wedge! Dad, Judy, and Mum must be so proud. Keep up the great work - you’ll be on the road in no time! Cheers from Florida mate!

[@LaurieFromFlorida]

WOW Max, that is incredible! You must be some kind of genius or something to have hooked up all that electrical stuff, I am just amazed by it all. And those cabinets! Unbelievable!!! Hats off to you, sir! Well done! Well done indeed!

[@anneliesjoss]

I really appreciate you taking the time to explain how you measure and cut the wood for those upper cabinets. That’ll be very helpful to us. We’re about to start making ours too.

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Glad it will help Annelies!

[@anneliesjoss]

Max & Lee I cant wait to really get moving on our van reno, but it’s middle of summer, and in New Mexico, that means very hot. Can’t wait for autumn to be here. Oh, we’re doing our reno in our driveway, as long as our HOA allows us, but it’s in full sun.

[@robertrigg9660]

Max, I was blown away by the electrical system and thise cabinets were spot on. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Just need Occi back now!!

[@jasgem76]

I love the attention to detail. This van will be incredible when it's done.

[@lisacamp5006]

Once Occy comes back, there will be one wild tail wagging party! Your router experience was great! A game changer! The electrical work is primo! The explosion while working on electrical is understandable..nothing good comes without a bit of chaos! You music choices were so spot on! Take care during the new lockdown.

[@coadyg]

Well done great 👌 job so far and thumbs-up 👍 for dad and Judy for all their help.

[@wandadorsey4389]

Enjoying your fearless approach to increasing your learning curve and the music selection was swinging for the fence ❤️ it

[@wandadorsey4389]

Ps your family’s support is priceless

[@larryfitzgerald7565]

Max, I just read on CNN where Melbourne Metro is on lockdown for 6 more weeks with curfew starting tonight and Victoria is closing bars, cafes and restaurants this coming Wednesday. I hope you and the family are stocked up with what you need. We can wait for the next video when you can do it. Please take care !!!

[@marieranson]

Shaping up nicely Max! I love how you are not rushing anything and are making sure everything is finished well and done properly! I also really appreciate your morning shots. As a brit who lived in Melbourne for 10 years, I really miss that dawn chorus :) Hope to visit again when that's possible!

[@jennymontague851]

Incredible amount of work though the technical stuff is way over my head. Beautiful build; wonderful BR you have started. Love the design and lay out of it all. Guess it's a terrific way to use your time productively during this bloody pandemic. Love it, Peace and looking forward to the finished product.

[@lilipich8628]

I love watching your videos man, not just for the education and genuine comedy, but just seeing a fellow Aussie work hard to achieve his dreams. I can't wait for the finished build! Love from WA ❣️

[@pilgrimpeace7763]

Phenomenal. So amazing what this is evolving into. Congratulations on your hard work. It is a pleasure to watch.

[@sassykat7605]

Found you thru Eamon and Bec, and I've followed your build. My eyes glazed over during the electrical ;) but your whole series has been very impressive. Can't wait to see you and your pup living the good life in your new build.

[@Dachdogoriginal]

Wow. What looked like chaos is absolutely finished into brilliance. Good Job Max.

[@MarkBriers111]

Max, you are one smart cool dude. I’m super impressed with how you’ve worked things out and your videos will help and inspire others to follow suit.

[@tracybrookey4356]

Wow, Max all that electrical stuff you did is sooo impressive! The van is looking so awesome! I’m getting so excited for you! Can’t wait to see it all done and especially can’t wait for that Occy to get home to Daddy!!! Very sharp Max!👍🏻🐶🐶💕

[@ethanandmiastuberuiz3756]

Gotta love have your family is with you all the way cheers to Judy and dad!

[@erinbrand1311]

So understand the apprehension of that electric install! My BF and I are getting ready to full time in a 5th wheel. Due to the CoVid we couldn’t find anyone to do the solar/lithium install we wanted for off grid dry camping. It has been a huge endeavor to make this come to fruition and quite the learning process. But the knowledge acquired is immeasurable for future off grid living whether nomadic or settled!

[@lizzybeth6558]

Finished my night shift phew and chillin before bed while watching your video get loads from your enthusiasm and drive to make your awesome home the best that it can be well done keep at your going to have a fantastic home in no time :)

[@crystalwolcott4744]

WOW! That shot near the end with the van exposed perfectly but the sunset exposed perfectly too???? Dang Max that's some good camera work.

[@inahood8227]

STOKED! Can't think of another -suitable- expression here... You are doing such an amazing job with your latest van-built! ...& I never in my life would've thought watching electrical installation for almost half an hour could be interesting- but it is (I'm even improving on my knowledge...) To end this praise for now, I only have to add one last point: I absolutely love your music 🎸🎛. You rocked it, Max! Cheers from Germany, Marina

[@kathifoynm]

Your music was off the charts this video, it captured your moods and added so much to a pretty complicated episode. I loved how you cut the cabinets and "showed" your math. When you were going through all of the thisses and thats of your electrical (see NASA electrician comment above) I almost zoned out, but then I remembered you waiting for and installing the electrical piece your mom brought to you in her baggage when she visited you and Lee in South America. The details are sketchy, did it work or did you have to wait for another part? I only remember that when you were able to produce a smoothie, we could all taste it with you. I can tell a lot of thought and planning went into the smoothie you prepared this episode! I could taste it too. It is always good to see dad and Judy and hear their encouragement. Well done mates!

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Haha glad you recognised that the music was representing my current emotions Kathi! And yep, Mum brought the Blendtec. I may have another on the way!!

[@nickbotfield4721]

Fantastic videos. Electrics are always daunting. Congrats on such a neat, well thought out system. Inspiring.

[@paula.jackson5463]

Am an Electrician and I am impressed! Great Job, but then the Whole Thing is a Great Job!!!!!

[@theresaferris6336]

Thank you so much for doing this build series. It is extremely helpful and informative as well as entertaining. You are doing an amazing job! I am looking forward to copying many of your ideas when my partner and I get going on our own Iveco conversion. We just started with the sound deadening yesterday! Looking forward to seeing how the rest of your build progresses. You're getting close to the end. Keep up the top class work. Theresa & Brendan from Ireland.👌👍

[@BloomByCC]

Absolutely gorgeous. You have mastered the VAN BUILD!

[@sandy89107]

That build is so good, you could sell edited version DVD how to series for other van builders

[@chris-thereelgenius]

you should check out humble road. that guy is insane

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Aww thank you Sandy!

[@joannedefalco3]

I am truly impressed by your knowledge of electrical components - your home will be amazing!!!

[@KH-ul1ir]

Dude your build is solid, but your song choices and editing are STELLAR.

[@debbiecapaldi2570]

K H I agree with his song choices...really adds to the production of this video in a Stellar way( using your choice of the word). Pretty neat!

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Thank you 🙏🏼 Picking the music takes a lonnnng time 😉

[@Spennydoesart]

Looks better every video!!! It’s so ascetically pleasing. Can’t wait for the next vid!

[@dmsarabia1]

As always - FABULOUS job. I was excited to see the video up today. Your progression is fascinating to watch. So glad to see all the loving support from your Dad and Judy!!

[@cha-ching827]

So neat and professional Max you are doing an amazing job!!! It looks fantastic.. I love how impressed your Dad and Judy are each time they come and see you! Keep safe Max and enjoy our Winter sunshine :-)

[@AgaModzel]

Wow, awesome job! The electrical part terrifies me, but you did it so neatly and clearly. And the cupboards really make it look like a home!

[@alexanderjacob8719]

Well done Max bro.. feeling so satisfying to see things work out and can't wait to see the next vedio.❤

[@dweamy1]

Oh My! You really should be so proud of yourself, you've done an amazing job! I will say it again, I absolutely love that you take your time and make such a neat job of it all. It really shows! Well done mate!

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Thank you! And yes I am quite proud of myself 🤗

[@vangeezerexperience]

The size of that van is almost making me change my mind about a Peugeot Boxer. Could be Max, Occy & a harem in that thing :) Very nice job, Max, and of course an extra thumbs up for dad and Judy and all the rest that has lend a hand. Help is worth it's weight in gold :)

[@Lulu.G-61]

Your work is top-notch, Max! The van is looking beautiful and I am impressed with your mad woodworking skills! I’ve made furniture and I know how much patience it takes to get those cabinets right.

[@emmagoff]

Loved the tunes this episode! Electric system looks great, thanks for the clear explanations, it the thing I'm finding hardest to plan for my next van...

[@shanirose1943]

This looks amazing! I bet you can't wait to move in fully!

[@mackenmd]

Looks great - looking forward to your first adventure!

[@freesoul2346]

Fantastic video! Loved the music, editing, and content. Loved learning about your electrical setup and have saved this video to help with my hubby and I’s schoolie conversion. Thank you so much for taking the time to explain everything so well! Keep up the amazing work! 🙌👏😻

[@bitminerbob6731]

OUTSTANDING solar system there Max. I am literally drooling.

[@Positiveoutput]

Power set up is awesome. You should be so proud of yourself. Good work man 🥳

[@stephengutierrez9297]

About as professional as it can possibly be. Fantastically neat.

[@sammyhudson7274]

Dad and Judy are awesome. Lucky fella to have a good loving family.

[@reatreatseclusion9891]

Can't imagine how you must feel, all that hard work and amazing system you have. Beautiful home . So exciting max you are truly inspiration for others xxx😘

[@serenasalentine]

Love the upper cabinets. Very cool to see the build of them step by step.

[@georgebeilman9292]

The van looks amazing!! Awesome job on building and installing the cabinets, with kudos to Dad and Judy for the muscles!! It must be extremely gratifying getting all the electronics hooked up yourself. not easy I know. Happy for you Max...you're doing a really beautiful job on everything. Keep it up and stay safe my friend!!

[@koalacrossingoceans]

You are killing this build and that electrical set up is first class, I have learnt a lot during the series.

[@aprilvivas8862]

Coming together well!!! Amazing job on the cupboards and electrical!!!

[@debiellis1188]

You’ve done a beautiful job. It’s going to look magnificent when complete! ♥️

[@pamelajordan3536]

Wooo hooo, dad and Judy. You have a great support system 🥰

[@maudkarlsson9489]

Oh i almost forgot. YEAY FOR DAD AND LINDA!!! Lucky yu to have that kind of support around you.

[@comedianmattrossey]

YAYYYYYYYY DAD AND JUDY!!!!!!!!!!!!! MAX, your mess is MAD SCIENTIST LEVEL? All Good though. When I'm deep into a project or creating something, I'm the same way. I find it helps me remember where I was, what's done, what needs doing, and generally inspires me to keep going to completion. Love the music around 18:00, who is it? It's got a great groove and attack!!!!! The electrical is impressive, and there's no need to justify yourself on it Max, this is going to be your home, and unlike most people, your building your home for the way you want to live. Electrical is a super important component of van life, so it only makes sense to put a considerable amount of coin into it, afterall, this is your home, why not do it the way you want it and also address all the issues you've had in the past by maybe going a bit further than necessary. Then your prepared for anything you might have to deal with. It's looking AWESOME Max. Keep Safe All, Peace, Happiness, Love and Laughter, -Matt

[@mamablam6193]

BADASSERY once again! Not to undersell the work you put in but seriously you make the complex look easy! I'm not saying I would ever dream of tackling any of what you've done but I sure enjoy watching your accomplishments!

[@rosanneforbes591]

Looking great!! Thanks dad and Judy 👏

[@moniquevelasco20]

Amazing how much work you put into the electrics. It looks excellent. And the cabinet are so slick, thank god for Judy and dad that helped you.

[@gregking-lifeingeneral9125]

Onya Max! Awesome job with the wiring mate. Really enjoying seeing your "not so little home" coming together.

[@gebi4pejo1]

Thumbs Up to Dad and Judy, really interesting we are wanting to get a Caravan to travel Oz again but we want to have more power to run appliances for the long term...

[@ZuriDsWellness]

I Luv how meticulous you are a man after my own heart... Kudos to you...

[@tammyjeffres8155]

Wow Max! Quite impressive. Love your cabinets and Yay! Energy!!!

[@staceyjello]

Dad and Judy are so cute and lovely. I love their support of you Max.

[@RoamwithRach]

Building your own van-house is so daunting but watching your series gives me a good idea of what to expect if I ever do this! One day maybe 🙂

[@territhorns8697]

On my break on a night shift and this popped up! Makes the next 6 hours a little easier

[@andyramsadeen8556]

Haha same here, on my night shift too watching this 👌🏽

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

Glad to have helped Terri!

[@loucollazo4931]

Well deserved beer at the end. Love the progress, don't apologize on how long videos take. Looking forward to seeing your adventures.

[@enyeterlin9466]

Brings me back to the days of when I wired control boards before I was accepted in the electrical union. IBEW Local 292 (mpls). I agree with you on shrink tape. I think it's stronger and much neater than electrical tape. It really is tidy looking. Loved how you used my comment (along with others) about more support on the end of your deck. Go adjustable. You may not always be on a level surface. I'd recommend uni-strut, Kendorf. (American name) You could engineer an adjustable leg from that, which could easily fold up and slide in with the deck. It's extremely heavy duty and I found it easy to work with. I always look forward to your vlogs! Looking great 👍 .

[@MaxLeeandOccy]

That's for the recommendations mate, I'll look in to it!!

[@Angelica_Sepulveda]

You make me want van life even more! Can I just come live with you?!

[@KH-lm7ku]

Love your work Max. You've outdone yourself! Top job mate 👍👏

[@wobbleboxadventures]

Great vlog those cabinets were so neat love how you worked out the angles and showed us. Electrics wise so neat and A very well thought out system 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿👍