Budget Van Conversion | Ford Econoline $3000!

[@ellengriffin1547]

I learned from an older van lifer that any wood flooring (and probably on the walks, too) needs to be painted first, before installing, with an oil-based paint, because condensation causes black mold to get in the wood. The 5 yr van lifer had to remove all his now squishy in places flooring and completely start over with an experienced professional van conversion builder friend who showed him how to build it right, and implemented ways to also catch condensation or drips from the 5 gal water bottles where they sit so that they, also, won't damage the base of the cabinets. We're all learning in the process. Thankyou for your presentation. Good learning. I liked the no hype quietness of it.

[@norml.hugh-mann]

Lots of condensation

[@lwright3907]

I was thinking also about the foam under the flooring becoming damp with condensation. Great video tho, I wouldn't evenknow where to start.

[@Stink_rman]

Does this still apply to fake wood flooring?

[@joejoe4486]

@@Stink_rman Mold will grow on the plywood underneath the vinyl.

[@johnfarrell6282]

Very nice DYI, wish I was that handy. I bought a new Ford E-250 and had a master carpenter build it out. He did an extraordinary job. I’m a minimalist and did not want a stove, sink, or fridge. I carry a Camp Chef propane stove and 6 gallon water jug. I do have a deep cycle battery and 1500watt inverter that supplies my electric needs. The van is totally insulated with a Fantastic Fan Vent in the ceiling and an awning window behind the drivers seat. Plenty of cabinets with slam latches. I removed the spare from underneath the van and had customswing arms and rear bumper. I had him build a metal “ cellar” box on the inside rear for additional storage. One side for the spare and one side with a storage box. Also have a fold out bed that converts to a double bed. Used rubber flooring which cleans up easily. Two electric outlets also. He also installed LED strip lighting on each side adjacent to the ceiling and they are recessed. Everything is trimmed in Cherry wood. The entire interior cost was $5,000. Been out west 8 times (2 month trips), mainly to Colorado, Wyoming and Montana Worth every penny I 😊spent.

[@SistahRev]

Something about the way you presented this made your build process seem/feel more accessible and understandable than the scores of other van build videos I have watched on KZbin. It really made me feel like I have a more realistic sense of what layers of tasks, skills, and time I would need if I ever decided to do such a thing, a better gauge of whether or not I am realistically capable of it given my skill set and temperament. I can’t put my finger on why your presentation accomplished this in a way many other step-by-step vids did not (for ME), but I am appreciative of your efforts, your skills and your sharing. Thank you!! Looking forward to the final tour of the build, and wishing you safety, health and delight as you go out adventuring in your completed van! 💐💐💐

[@DjinnRummy]

Same!

[@Yosemite2003]

I agree. I saw more of their feet than any other part of them! The focus on the van and tasks at hand made the video unique. I am painfully shy on camera, so this approach to filming is awesome to me! Plus they seem very talented and competent in problem solving and pointing out challenges and mistakes.

[@kylemolletfishing9123]

I think that it's because it shows that even someone with the most basic understanding of the construction/building process, and who isn't afraid of a little hard work can still get decent results without having to break the bank. I'm sure it will serve them well, and if they want to change things/upgrade down the road, they will have gained some experience from this, and that will put them one step ahead the next time.

[@emmabaker7434]

Agreed

[@deborahiaquinta2870]

I was thinking the same thing and I have no skills in this area at all but I absorbed a lot of what you were doing and had a few 🤔🤔🤔 moments ...like I think I could do that. 😄 You really did a great job of taking us step by step in detail on each thing you did. A lot of videos show moments of each thing but you really don't see the whole process and exactly what they did and how they did it. You definitely have a knack for doing a teaching video on this topic. If you created a teaching video program showing each topic especially electrical work on a separate video in detail a lot of people would buy it and have a step by step guide as to how to make an awesome camper van it would support your channel and maybe you'd do this as a business. It's cool that you used such an old van in not the best shape and turned it into a very clean and beautiful camper van. Great job!!

[@daviedood2503]

Really cool. One quick note to anyone who sees this. If you're gonna spray paint with cans, spend the extra $2 and get that plastic trigger cap that goes on top of the can. Sorta looks like a plastic pistol and the spray paint can sits under it. It's $2 this let's u spray evenly, and consistently, without your finger getting tired and with over laps etc. For $2 it keeps everything even and consistent. Thought I'd share Bc in spray painted a desk once and geez I could have used it. Next desk I used one and saved so much. 1 can actually lasted longer with the thing than without out it some how.

[@MaLiArtworks186]

Thanks. Thumbs have gone numb on a few projects!

[@terrybaldridge8730]

Yup.

[@Pooky1973]

Only major problem I see is there's no moisture barrier between the metal and the rock wool. That's going to cause lots of very bad mold issues. Living in a van with your respiration, cooking, and water use will generate lots of humidity. Also, the condensate that will form on the inside of the metal will just absorb into the wool with no way to dry out.

[@laslas6679]

What kind of moisture barrier is needed and how is it applied

[@alexandrelandry1992]

@@laslas6679 "CGSB Approved 6 mil Vapour Barrier" is one example of product, it would be tacked to a frame to separate the insulation. In a house you would staple it to the wood frame and it would hold the pink insulation or rockwool, in a van you could use strapping as your frame. once its tacked on you can sheet your walls with whatever material you plan on using (plywood, particle board, ect.) hope this answers your question!

[@devinnn39]

It’s sheep wool. Which cannot absorb moisture and therefore cannot mold. Very different than rockwool

[@misse8787]

Nah, just cook outside, and you're fine.

[@iammaximus614]

@@alexandrelandry1992would the cgsb vapor barrier & rock wool or sheep wool be the best combination for van insulation?

[@jeffharper410]

Can I recommend covering your plywood with cork flooring for several reasons. 1. Cork is fantastic sound deadening natural material. 2. It softens sound inside the van. 3. It is a good thermal insulate and will help regulate a livable temperature. 4. It looks nice.

[@findoutDIY]

great idea

[@slipperysteev]

4 mins in and I already have so much respect for you for this DIY masterpiece!

[@samueltractorton2088]

Thanks for the extensive video showing all the hard stuff, and with all the cleaning! Of course everyone likes the super high end sprinters...but most people can't even afford the van, let alone everything put in them. Affordable, stealthy, functional, clean, that's what I dig, cool.

[@armandoramos1949]

I admire people like you guys who are very talented and have the patience and knowledge to do things yourself. Great job, looks awesome!

[@silentwalk1768]

Nice job too many of these old vans get scrapped it's a shame they are so versatile I have a 1980 Ford E100 and I still drive it

[@jameshenley.]

I've got a 92 ford club wagon. I plan on doing a conversion

[@svenn1946]

I love this conversion. I see these overly complicated builds with everything cramped in and an awful lot of (in my opinion) complicated electrical that you don't need anyway. The foot pump faucet for example is so much better than one ran on a water pump. You guys really made a good example of a budget van build, that everyone will be able to make, no matter how little experience they have

[@johnjohnson3447]

The sound deadening material is a worthwhile addition. I used it successfully in my 2000 Corvette. Suggest you use it over/near the wheel wells. Road noise generated by the tires obviously is the major source of noise. Multiple layers are best.

[@tdmj2812]

How many layers could you lay efficiently? I love this idea! I have this same van and I despise the noise it makes.

[@fayemealing9332]

I watched this video a year ago before my build, and now I’m watching it again. Both times were very pleasant and I appreciate your work

[@macymiller6079]

We just bought our first can to convert, a 1978 Ford Econoline!

[@TheMisterMonkeyman]

You did a really good job showing the processes as you went along. It's great how you were more concerned with function over appearance, while also keeping the budget down. I'm looking forward to watching the "finished" video to see the final product. The one thing I probably would have done differently would have been to use button-head self-tapping screws to mount the paneling because they would have sat much flatter. But that's a small thing, on the whole it looks to be a good, solid job. Thanks for sharing. Peace.

[@JohnDoe-dl1vx]

AMAZING WORK MATE.UNBELIEVABLE YOU GUYS CAN DO ALL THAT WORK IN SANDLES! YOUS TRULY ARE A JACK OF ALL TRADES.I TIP MY HAT TO YOU.GREAT EDUCATIONAL VIDEO.

[@jsmythib]

I have had great luck with 6 econolines over 30 years(Flooring)... Alternators/Heater Switchs/Blower motors/Starters. In that order. Keep those parts in stock and fluids topped off :) The build looks great, ty for the ideas. Cheers!

[@penelope-oe2vr]

You could probably also get flooring remnants since it's a small area. Thank you for showing this an affordable and realistic way

[@jrdepew]

Good job on build and editing. Shows how inexpensive a person with some skills can go for a get-away van.

[@JESvenUSandMAEYLAMoon]

My family like to tell me I can't do it but this jus proves I can ♡

[@dictator7586]

@@JESvenUSandMAEYLAMoon what is hard in making van conversion

[@enitska]

@@JESvenUSandMAEYLAMoon if you know that you can do it and you have motivation, don't worry about negative people and it will be a success

[@tnopsclark6179]

Wow. I’m so jealous! I have a cargo van I live in and no skill to build anything like that. But you all did a fabulous job! Thanks for sharing

[@realweston]

So impressed that your doing this whole thing yourself. From a kid that likes to tinker with my cars and make them potentially less value from my modifications 😅 I think the van build is super solid. And at a great price

[@keithdaris6537]

Bro, this is the most impressive video I've seen on a buildout. You're clearly a master craftsman as well!

[@MizzBluuu]

I can't help but internally freak out over the fact that you're doing this wearing flip flops. You're bold sir, very bold.

[@cathycoryell2351]

Sheep wool insulation on the sidewalls is great idea! Hear so many mixed opinions on fiberglass vs. spray foam and other options.. you just nixed all that chatter, and confusion. Hope it's warm enough, over time! Great video!

[@atmosrepair]

Spray foam is the best by far, but it is costly

[@jamesgreg5542]

That looks like so much fun but also richly rewarding. Nice that you have help!

[@urbanismogdl1092]

I have always admire these type of skills and talent to do all of this work. Great clip !!!

[@jasonbrand5762]

50 year cycle back to the hippie era & 70's custom vans.✌️

[@backyardbraaapn1017]

Its never stopped. Its just a fad now so you see it more

[@paulballenden9366]

That was a great build mate, you weren’t talking to fast , dident make things sound hard to do or use big words etc , and it was a easy build no bells and whistles . Good on yah mate. From a Aussie mate

[@SunflowerandtheBussLady]

Dude your toes!!! I was all in a twisting waiting hear that primal wail when your pointing got whacked! I ripped off a big toe nail working on my dads old step side with my siblings. My 3 old brothers actually cried while I held my breath so I would scream and get my mom out there. Because you know that’s when all hell would have broke loose, and my poor dad would have gotten skinned for my bad decision making. 😲🥺😩. But I survived, and watched them all have fun working on it. I learned pin striping on that project mainly because I had the most steady hand, and I was stationary on an old secretary chair. Now I have to call them and have a good ol cringe at the memory of that day. Awesome job!

[@justkelly6992]

The cable from the batteries to the back of the van should have been run under the van inside a flex tube. Don't forget to fuse this cable. That is a big cable to run overhead and to try to conceal behind molding and panel. Good Job.

[@johnrpizzaguy]

I am the fleet mechanic for a commercial bakery and over half of my vans have a battery box ( from the factory)under the side cargo door area, all you do is put a fuse in the engines fuse box and install a battery in the underside box, it charges from the alternator with the existing un used battery cables.

[@darrellbarnes2096]

What i love about this video is that your Queen is working with you 😊❤

[@hldye7442]

I work as a Gen Cont and never work or see anyone in open toe shoes / but for some odd reason just about every person that is fixing up a van does flip flops ? Also thanks for good music selection :). And not ac/DC crap . Keep up the good work.

[@Thinkforyourselves64]

I value my toes too much to wear flip flops, lol, but he does have cute toes….

[@TheREALOC1972]

I had a buddy that did something simular while we were in Tech School in Orlando Florida but his was one of the 15 pac van that he bought from his church when they bought a new one. His bed was a platform but the platform was an old dresser that he cut the legs down, painted it and mounted it in the van on one side using L brackets and that allowed him to create a little closet on the other side to hang shirts on. His didn't have any water but he didn't really need it, he just bought a case of bottled water and rented a spot at an RV park just outside of Orlando so he didn't need a bathroom, shower and laundry because they had them for public use but he brought his laundry over to my apartment on the weekends. He bought a little 650 motorcycle to ride back and forth to school on. He had a microwave to cook with and ate on paper plates and used plastic utensils that he could just throw away. He used 3 cheap solar lawn lights for lighting at night and would just sit them outside during the day to charge. He spent very very little on living while we were school, He was a vet just out of the military and used the G.I. Bill to go to school on plus they paid him like $1600 a month and it cost him about $400 a month to live, he made out liker a bandit., I wish I had thought about it.

[@cara2011plts]

Love seeing someone else does big physical labor in the chacos!

[@findoutDIY]

Both retired river guides....old habits die hard

[@jksatte]

I really appreciate the detail you provided with your build. Makes me think I could do something like that. I can't but you make it look kinda doable. Janice

[@Stayfocused1984]

I did not have any faith that this would come out like it did from that initial look at it. You're amazing and talented.

[@wanderingIvy67]

Ty for showing and teaching how to do this in detail better than I've seen yet. 💜

[@augustwestusa]

That is so amazing! You need a lot of know-how to do that! There is no way I could do anything like that! Different people have different talents. I wish I knew someone like you!!! Awesome!

[@IceManGav1]

Just about to start this journey myself with a van I bought from auction! Perfect video to remove the guessing for me, thank you!

[@hcnhonor3239]

I kinda giggled when he said that the best way to cut the insulation was with the "insulation knife". Almost like it was designed for one specific reason. Lol. Awesome video btw, you guys are truly amazing.

[@ballerballa9122]

Amazed you did this all in Sandals.

[@j.bmillennial3988]

My mini van is way way more budget. I foamed the holes where the rear seats went and laid another carpet over the old carpet with the foam. I pulled all the siding out and insulated with two rolls of fiberglass water heater insulation. And put the plastic siding back on. I took all the rear belts out of course, so there is no going back. Eventually I’d like to have a platform for a bed, but I’m going to be using the empty van for moving pretty soon.

[@findoutDIY]

I've totally though of using a Sienna instead, great gas mileage!

[@andrerogers9961]

Nice build and love the copper faucet.

[@brandonclark4826]

Same van 2008 and took rack off mine and box and shelves out! Bought it from my old boss Johnny at Minto Electric in Mobile and I plan to do the same thing maybe slightly different, but still same concepts! Cool✌😎

[@warrathblacktiger5566]

That was fun reminded me of my dad when he bought the guts out of a custom back in late 70's for under $100 We had to pull everything ourselves I was still in grade school dad had to clear the wasp out lol Spent whole day at junkyard then the next week cleaning and resizing it to fit our flatnosed Chevy van Was a wall to wall shagg of carpet with pull out bed removable table under the back seat storage under pull out sink with water tank and mini cooker and the captains chairs was real job for me dad and mom lot leftovers only mistake dad covered the engine cowling which made it run hot so he stripped it and found some nice leather Once done he could use it at his job as security guard after a night's work he could just go truck and sleep few hrs before coming home and get the rest of the sleep he needed But now I look at it as one of the crazy things dad did beside buy a boat from goodwill with no motor and weighed over a ton never got to fix it or ride but that was dad see a deal and grab it lol

[@cclev1967]

That's a great build. I'm getting ready to start a new build on my third van. I full-time live and travel in mine. You gave me some nice ideas for mine. Great video

[@michaelbrinks8089]

I was gonna remove but keep all the old seats in my ford econoline 302 V8 then possibly build the interior so everything is bolted or latched into place and can be quickly removed. That way I could still use it later as a cargo/moving van or when selling, I could sell it as a campervan or remove the bed, shelves,kitchenette,etc..and sell as regular van.

[@StephanieHLopez-ic5hr]

If you don’t mind me asking, what do you do for income? We wanna do this so bad but that’s the only thing stopping us, we have regular jobs

[@tnr2217]

I never would have thought you could fit so much in one of these. I just had the idea to do this today but it only went as far as a bed.

[@sharicollier6097]

Lol! Got 2 start somewhere. At Least U Will have. place to dream up the rest I'm sayin this All Tongue im Cheek cause I'm financially strapped after have mechanical costs over the last year, thinkin the same 4 me.

[@louisejones6239]

You have excellent skills. By putting your time,energy and knowledge into this build,you were able to save tons of money.

[@tonoy1956]

Wow! What saving $6,000 can't wait see next video.

[@lisalutterbach6843]

Looking forward to seeing the final product

[@mikeb3603]

Love the wall panels. Many use tongue and groove. Looks cool but heavy and expensive. Dude has a great grasp of mechanics. Well done. I'd trust his builds

[@kathryn.rollins]

I love the updates you did to this van! So cool. Thanks for sharing this!

[@andybauer9689]

started working on our van, just got the sound deading and insulation done, ready for the floor

[@mr.makeit4037]

Great detailed video. Only thing that I would add, because I haven't seen this in any videos of this kind, is a separation wall and middle sliding pocket door. This would separate the cab area. This also allows you to maximize your vertical and horizontal space behind the cab.

[@markcole8436]

Most people put a curtain up there, so when they sleep at night, they black out the windows and they have the the curtain open and adds quite a bit of space to it. A lot of people will also put passenger seat that spins around. They have somewhere to sit that joins into the living area. FYI. I'm doing that with my bill right now.

[@m.s.1046]

Confidence and elbow grease ... impressive!

[@JohnSmith-ww8cs]

Love how modest he is. About the insulation knife and the brackets for the sink lol. Thanks for not editing that out

[@Techelp1001]

Love the build! We have been doing a budget Econoline build ourselves. Make sure to keep us updated with your travels!

[@marklennox2151]

Nice build out. I wouldn't go with the vinyl floor strips though because they always peel off. I just used the original rubber mat. It is a cargo van after all.

[@andybauer9689]

got the floor all installed and sealed up, ready for the bed frame

[@SlowlanelivingwithPaulaRandy]

Just subbed! We are working on our Econoline van as well! Nice! we love watching other videos to help us decide how to build our van out!

[@paulairola7041]

I was fortunate and bought my sisters 2001 regency conversion van for a $1000. has 248k with new Casper transmission and a folder 4inches thick of receipts. Have since turned into a camper van

[@darrincambridge2377]

Interesting, most folk work from the ceiling down. Nice to see you pre-drilling those screw holes 😉

[@nancycarter2952]

Looking forward to the final tour!

[@fatasiancat]

those vinyl floor planks are not for van use. There will be gaps in between due to the significant temperature change. Thank you for sharing your build. It's very helpful.

[@MizzCupcake244]

the vinyl floor will end up moving around eventually I've heard. When you go from hot to cold it starts to get cracks between the planks.

[@Sean-bp6xb]

Fun to see it come together. Watching from Ontario Canada

[@Snoopysails]

I paused after the one minute mark. Those roller bead seat covers are the best!

[@OntheFarmAus]

I just bought a brand new van. I love how there is no carpet in it. Just a wipe surface

[@elianasmith6330]

Your videos are very useful and provide lots of information. I have received lots of help, please continue to share this kind of information. Thank you.

[@SlotDropMarc]

that dude should have paid YOU the $3000 when he sold you the van. Great job

[@jess4mathews]

Oh yeah that was LOTS of work🤔

[@aga2353]

Awesome, I am planning to do a similar build, but I decided I want a van that I will be able to stand in

[@findoutDIY]

Go for it! If I we were planning to live in it, we would have to be able to stand in it.

[@Smallbore2wheels]

this is definitely a good way to get started before the MSF course.

[@Louie12673]

Awesome job! I like the flooring.

[@drivinfool9902]

Recommend treating any wood with a anti mold treatment prior to installation and using the metal tape that controls rattles. I recently rented a cargo van at Uhaul to check out driving a van. It was a huge rattle trap. Very impressive how you removed and cleaned out so many places. Way to go! Please describe how you knew this vehicle was worth your wonderful effort. Did you take to mechanic? Or do you have those skills as well?

[@findoutDIY]

Hi Penny, Both myself and my partner have driven these vans a bunch (we both have worked for companies with a fleet of them) and are pretty mechanically minded. We did take it to a mechanic once purchased for some belt changes and a tune prior to build out. Most mechanics will perform a vehicle check for you (usually around $100-200) before you purchase a car as well which we have done in the past.

[@Gmail.davidisaac1719]

Find out can you send me your number ,I don't have those skill

[@Cloudwanderervanlife]

Great job! Started build on my 07 Chevy Van also. Lots of rust to deal with!

[@StevenBagley]

Great build! Looks ready for good times.

[@tinaking1033]

Nice job man ? Be nice warm for any kind weather warm- hot-cold. ... That's kind of home on wheels for me my husband... I have watched of video's of different home on wheels. Great job.

[@amandam3153]

Just got an E150 love this so much thank you!

[@Talani61]

Great step by step presentation. You gave me an encouragement to take on a DIY van conversion.

[@2pist]

I just bought the same van. I am using carpet padding and spray glue for insulation and sound deadening. Doesn't get much cheaper.

[@ladypatriot2996]

So excited I found this video, as i literally just bought this style of van, except mine has windows down either sides. Thanks for the great video as I'm starting my conversion this year.

[@jessicathorsted]

Great job! Thanks for explaining things, unlike most videos I have seen. You both did great! 🙌

[@georgemaze7926]

Outstanding video thanks please make more. Van heavy too much woods, next time make it light you will feel the difference

[@tdmj2812]

Off topic! You guys have great legs! Love the van conversion too! I came to KZbin looking for some ideas since I have the same van (unconverted) as well. Thanks for the video!

[@charliewinterss]

Time my friend. Think about what you want to do with the van, what you need in the van. Then draw a floor plan (try to make things have multiple purposes and find sneaky places for storage.

[@andreefaniel208]

***..I mean GREAT archivement .. Thanks A LOT for your generosity .. Bon voyage !! 😘 💕..God Bless you guys !! ***

[@averagealice8877]

This is truly amazing and informative. Just wondering though if the poly iso under the plywood might compress as you walk on it? You clearly have automotive skills! I’m jealous of that radio and thanks for the mention of refurbishing the instrument panel.

[@findoutDIY]

Thank you! The poly iso board has not compressed at all and does not squeak at all, which was my big concern. It is good stuff.

[@buzzinbee9463]

Dayyyuuummmm. You are a pro. Wow. So skillful

[@mdalton556]

When hanging those doors you could clamp them in place and use a self centering drill bit to drill the holes. Then place screws and bam you are done.

[@DebZaragoza]

Really enjoyed this! You both put a lot of time into this!

[@ivanrivera1102]

Ford vans are great easy to get parts not expensive and very strong i drove one for 10 years great experience 👍

[@eburn71]

simplicity at its best, I like it!

[@cjcj6945]

Looking great so far!👍😊

[@findoutDIY]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@rcs_rc_az961]

Nice build for the budget on this van! You guys did a great job, any updates coming up?

[@jessicahickey4527]

I really enjoyed how you built and showed this. Really helpful and insightful behind the scenes build. Nice job

[@SensatiousHiatus]

Looks good...it'll be cool to see the final build. I hope to do a similar build someday. Thanks for sharing!

[@ILKnierim]

Nice looking forward to following your journey through 2021

[@gypsybelle4757]

Thank you for sharing this breakdown of your process. Beautiful build!

[@91Bronco]

Awesome build! I probably wouldn’t of put the inch of foam under the subfloor just for extra headroom but I’m sure it serves it’s purpose! Either way. Much much better then I would ever do haha. I would of probably cleaned it and threw a bed in the back and took her on a trip!

[@jamisonbernhardt3310]

Same

[@benjaminrush4443]

Nice Presentation ! I really enjoyed your real approach to the conversion. I was looking at a newer E 3500 on a lot. Awful for a new van - Transit. Thanks.

[@WizzRacing]

Auxiliary Batteries go under the Passenger side door. Onto the frame. It can hold two of them. All Ford Econoline vans are made for them...As they used them as Ambulances..They actually make a wiring harness for it.....That just plugs into the fuse box.