"Buildered" Ep 1 - Instagram VS Reality

[@gregriutzel7834]

That romex connection on the A/C is a fire hazard and can also ruin the unit. It's not vehicle rated either plus you never use solid wire in any vehicle that's expected to be driven. The safety concerns, and with a little research on manufacturer and code requirements, plus motor home/RV safety rules, this builder ought to be hauled to court. It's beyond incompetence.

[@Skips1964]

Wow, just wow. Whoever built this bus clearly has never spent any amount time even staying in an RV.

[@axollot]

I've seen even worse builds. By a company in Texas. All awful!

[@dancarter482]

@@axollot SCARY!

[@artrosco1973]

You can tell they aren't the brightest, that's evident with that blm flag lol

[@marxnutz]

Yes, that is admittedly an amateurish looking job, with some pretty serious problems. I attempted to convert my step van to a camper, and my work is not even as good as what I am seeing there, so I can't talk. It's a shame the client had to pay so much for work that was substandard. EDIT: Just so you know, I did not install solar nor did I install wiring like that unsafe mess, so I can honestly say that what I did on my step van was NOT that bad. Whew!

[@GarrisonFall]

Don't feel bad. You didn't take money from anyone for your work. I don't have the confidence to even try a project like you did. You recognized your mistakes and learned from your experience. Well done to you.

[@kevinkeller1046]

I can feel the disgruntled anger in all the finishing touches, they definitely realized as they went that they weren't gonna make any money off of it. What a waste all around, this makes me really sad.

[@gongcircle507]

Nightmare but it's NOT JUST THIS GUY. it's literally every other build out there. Built with sticks and bricks materials instead of RV, Boat, airplane stuff that's light and strong. All I think when I watch these walk thrus is "that's going to rattle apart" That's going to disintegrate on the 1st washboard road" "that's totally impractical if not a horrible idea..." etc. The mini split with no drain is pretty epic though... omfg :+}

[@sojournersway]

Truth!

[@darlalazzari]

Do you know of any builders or recommend any that work with airplane, boat and RV material?

[@cbthethird]

They all claim to have "decades of skoolie building experience".

[@Detailers-Business-Academy]

With no proof

[@ZephodBeeblebrox]

That just means the hillbilly behind it once thought of the idea when he had a can of Colt 45 in one hand and was scratching his nut sack with the other.

[@solidstate9451]

You can do it wrong for decades...

[@cbthethird]

@@solidstate9451 Many do!

[@doctorteatime8204]

high school shop class does not count

[@doctorteatime8204]

Um. Did they... did they PAINT OVER THE REFLECTORS AND SIDE AND CLEARANCE LIGHTS? That thing's a hazard and this is why we can't have nice things

[@RollingLiving]

Your observations and description PERFECTLY describe one of my customer's experiences with Epic Skoolies in Washington. Except Epic charges $100K plus for their builds. If you look at their videos...just like you say...they completely gloss over their solar and electrical installations. They use some decent components, but their installation quality is SO crappy that they almost burnt this family's bus down with bad cable crimps and improper work. At least in this bus, they installed *one* of the mini split condensate drains. You're right that they should use both, because the bus could lean either way. In my customer's bus, Epic didn't install a drain at all, so the mini split drips on their bed. Great...

[@Wayoutthere]

In like every frame of the video I see sht that offends me as a builder, and I have yet to see the electrical. I may need to sit down.. First thing I do advising ppl who want to buy a skoolie/converted Van is head straight to the electrics and ignore the Instagram crap.. It shows the builders mentality quite quickly..

[@OldSkoolieSimple]

This is the kind of thing that makes me want to learn to live without power. I think it would be safer to light candles in your moving bus than to have this electrical setup. And the plumbing... an old-fashioned 5-gal bucket and water jugs would have presented fewer issues. At the end of the day, they are going to have more headaches than living in a house classified as a money pit.

[@sojournersway]

Power is great and when done properly, is excellent! I know a guy 😉

[@yearofthelocust7076]

Lmaooo!!

[@doctorteatime8204]

@@sojournersway Ok, we watched this video and now my husband wants to drive down to FL to have you put the solar on our bus as soon as we have the budget!

[@1982MCI]

@@sojournersway out of curiosity, what would the “average” price of a solar install be for a similar bus as this with all work done per any RV code that’s applicable and using good quality equipment and batteries? I know there can be a large difference in price from bottom of the barrel equipment and materials to the top of the line but I’m just talking about the average install cost today that you guys are seeing on majority of schoolies that will work and not have issues for say at least 3-5 years maybe. Thanks brother!! I’m trying to figure out a ballpark budget and don’t know if that’s gonna be $5k, $10k, $15k or what. I have no idea on solar anything and will be needing someone whose qualified, surely not these guys tho, to do it for me and I’m just trying to figure how much money I need. Thanks man!!

[@sojournersway]

@@1982MCI it’s vey specific to the bus and what’s needed to be powered. The largest systems I’ve done can run AC 24/7 and cost $12-15k in parts alone. I do consults to map out needs per bus, but I’m still booked for installs a way out. I don’t use “value” components because I’ve pulled so many failed parts out of buses that I would never use those brands for clients unless I wanted to fly around the country replacing parts. I offer smaller systems but not lesser quality systems. Not trying to be the cheapest, instead, I want to offer the best and most reliable Solar possible with redundancy and versatility. Check out my FB Page for reviews.

[@HlGHPlNG]

This video went from "comedy" to "tragedy" to "horror". Pretty sure this was built by the landlord of a house I used to rent. Very similar building techniques.

[@burningmanmike]

Nothing easy ends up good. You can build crap, or you can build something to be proud of.

[@lindabishop7656]

The more I watch, the worse this gets...tho poor unfortunate folks. 😢

[@LacroixCruiser]

I hope the builder stands up and pays the customer back. There’s so much wrong that you didn’t even mention. -Front door without safety glass -stove that’s smaller than the cut out. - built ins that will eventually fall apart, - wires going through metal without grommets And so much more, every new frame in the video reveals another horror story

[@nc4328]

Also the door is an interior door made of particle board is currently getting soaked in florida rain.

[@nc4328]

would really love to talk with you, I messaged you via FB. Hope to hear from you

[@Bg_Savage_64]

No insulation on exterior plumbing hardware not made to with stand rust and elements. I gotta give it to you, I’m new to this channel but you are very relaxed and calm. I get more and more upset and mad. First for the owners but second for the scumbags that make the industry as a whole that much more difficult. Me myself while I was a manager had a sub contractor run off with like 18k. And many others.Wow no Mc on that mini split romex. What he’s gonna find when he actually pulls stuff back that they went out of there way to hide is gonna be bad

[@spencerwhitmire8347]

That hurt to watch! Sad that someone got paid to make this mess.

[@leger205]

this person should of requested to look at other buses he has done. They would of saved themselves the grief. I do renovation work and all my years of doing renos no one has ever asked to see my work. Luckily for them I do nice work but what about the others who are good salesmen but are hacks with their work quality.

[@sojournersway]

Of course, but a person like this is a skilled charlatan and used to making himself appear more skilled and competent than he is. The client obviously regrets working with him but he is the one who didn’t do what he said he was going to do, not her.

[@hoyasaxa]

Where are you located? Do you have a website / social media? Do you offer pre-purchase inspections of Skoolies to help those of us thinking about such a major purchase to avoid these types of nightmares? Thanks!

[@sojournersway]

I have a FB Business page where I do solar. This is not what I do technically (inspections), but reach out on FB and I’m having to help you how I can. There are a lot of resources to which I can link you!

[@LacroixCruiser]

David, I offer coaching for helping you with building your bus safety, economically, and suited to your needs. If you would like to check out what we do, here’s out KZbin channel. kzbin.info

[@zooedca]

I would say that is worse then a DIY would do. I as a DIYer make sure I am doing each step to code and usually better.

[@rinrinobserve9876]

They are from Florida. They know the humidity does to all the wood.

[@chrisdewyngaert8194]

I don't care if you've never lived in a bus rv or a house this is shitty work no matter who you are! My heart goes out to the lady that got taken on this job.

[@andrerogers9961]

Cabinet maker and finisher here.... UGH! Too bad because conceptully it is good but all those little unfinished bits would drive me nuts and I'd be gutting the whole thing. What a shame.

[@rhopkins1025]

This is by far one of the worst I’ve seen. Depressing and sad

[@Bg_Savage_64]

Nothing sanded/prepped for painting the majority has no protection at all. The carpentry is terrible, the ceiling. This is why I want out of the construction/renovation industry all together. I’m new to business build outs doing my first now for personal use. I’ve done tiny homes, tree houses build outs in enclosed trailers and refitting only builds or rvs with new carpentry work.

[@merrimcarthur7198]

Out of curiosity, were you able to help this unfortunate purchaser? I certainly hope so. I have no plumbing or electrical experience. The only building experience I have is from back in college when I built sets for theatre. It was pretty slap/dash, but with safety in mind. It didn't have to look good close up, but it HAD to be safe...because theater. After watching your inspection video, even *I* quickly came to the conclusion that this was a terrible build. Also, you helped me understand better how I recently got soaked by an auto repair shyster. I will be recommending that people watch this video and others like it before getting involved in nomad life (van/skoolie/etc). If you are going to give up the relative safety of a stick and brick for life on the road, you'd best be absolutely certain that your build will withstand the rigors of life on the road. Yes, it always looks lovely and fun in instagram/youtube, but looks can be very decieving.

[@sojournersway]

I removed the 140+ holes in the roof and removed the panels and put proper panels on. Also sealed up the leaking skylights “temporarily”. Made the electrical as safe as I could, and disconnected the sketch propane. That’s as much time as I could give!

[@merrimcarthur7198]

@@sojournersway Thank you for letting me/us know that! What you did was better than what that poor woman started with. Hopefully she can continue improvements over time. As long as it is functional, she's on the right track. Thank you for what you did. 💜

[@annettepierson6130]

I hope that lady sues them.

[@IsisofDurnham]

you have to wonder what the skillset of this builder is ,because it sure isn't a carpenter either . Even though I'm not a carpenter or by any means an expert building anything whatsoever ...I immediately noticed the gaps and overall shoddy job . Please tell us you were able to help this unfortunate customer ...

[@mjlinford]

Oh my goodness!!! who built this wreck...clearly NO woodworking skills, or measurement skills for that matter. Has this builder ever heard of sandpaper? or measure once, cut twice???? I come from a woodworking family..my dad was a home builder and carpenter for 70 years and If I showed him this as MY work, he would disown me. Talk about taking the shortest, easiest way possible. Someone buy this dude a TAPE MEASURE and a level!

[@comanakizzuwatna5901]

Such an engine is a clean old bus, how much does it cost to bring it to Germany?

[@jserenity]

Yep. Verrry instagramable until you look underneath

[@joannewolfe5688]

Holey Moley, what a crap build! The shower is scary; mold waiting to happen. Sad that the owner actually took delivery. I would have asked for my money back.

[@sojournersway]

The Client stayed just a few miles away and immediately reached out to a few people to validate her suspicions. She got in contact with me and I drove to this inspection. The “Builder” came back and through a bunch of trashy sealant on the roof (as shown in video) trying to bandaid the leaks. He then got a comprehensive report from me explaining the issues. His response to the issues were to attack me and my credibility…while not addressing any of the issues shown in video. After a lot of gaslighting, he took no responsibility for ANY of this, though he was given the option to buy the bus back for what was paid…which he didn’t do even though he told the client many times the bus was worth twice what she was paying.

[@The.Philippines.Joe.]

First and foremost...i hope someone is able to help this client...shame to have to go through such...the builder took advantage if her ignorance every turn it seems...second...if someone watching this video and is considering this lifestyle purely out of an economic standpoint...and your only income is SS or SSDI..may i suggest looking at a lower cost of living country to reside...i am disabled got hurt on the job..and i decided to move to a low cost of living country to live rather than go homeless or live in my car...this may seem hars to believe..as living in the US is so very expensive...but i have a house and a condo...support a fam of 3...and my monthly bills are about 982 a month..that includes doctor and meds each month at around 100..mortgage for house is 200..condo is 211...grocery is about 240...power/water 85...catholic private school for my son 60...internet/cable 26...60 for a private tutor for my son...just an option for those who struggle and need options to consider(granted i saved up a nest egg and sold all my belongings to put a decent down payment on the house then saved again for the downpayment for the condo...but i only paid 100 a month rent for a 2bed single bath while waiting on construction of my house)...best of luck and just a thought for those whom may need an option

[@lauradoyle1111]

What country if you don't mind me askin?

[@The.Philippines.Joe.]

@@lauradoyle1111 i am in the Philippines...i always suggest to visit places and see if its a good fit for you...for myself Philippines ticked nearly all my boxes...there is an SS office in manila...80+% speak english here...all legal docs are in english...im a picky eater and the main courses here all fall in line with my preferences...so many american businesses have locations here...i often forget i am in another country...so if this is something you or anyone is considering i simply suggest making a list of requirements or must haves and visiting several countries to see which is best for you...do some research on low cost of living countries to help narrow down your sesrch...best of luck on any decision you may make for yourself

[@georgeorwellchannel8750]

Curious, what do you use other than wire nuts for mobile applications?

[@mrvalveras]

Mobile wire nuts?

[@user2C47]

Crimp connectors, usually.

[@andrewderocle]

Butyl tape

[@bobbobobob5100]

builder had no clue

[@joyhouse2334]

I tore my bus apart and I’m now looking for someone to do it right. The plumbing and Electric only so if you have the time and are traveling though southern indiana let me know 😂

[@solidstate9451]

That is the reason why Germany has a "Meisterpflicht" - you first have to have a 3 year part theoretical and part practical education and afterwards an additional 2 year education before you can build a company as a craftman. If you hire a craftsman, you at least can be sure it is build safe.

[@user2C47]

In the US, you have to be an apprentice for a MINIMUM of 4 years (8000 hours) before you can even move to the next step.

[@dancarter482]

WOW - HOLY~CRAP!

[@skooliebuilders]

This was not one of our builds. The title is not our company nor are we affiliated with any of these companies.

[@sojournersway]

Yikes, your business name makes that tricky! I shared in the description who built the bus.

[@skooliebuilders]

@@sojournersway no worries it’s good to shed light on builds like this. The title made me look twice and had to make sure no one was claiming to be us as a builder lol

[@mightystreaming933]

total disaster the builder has no idea what he is doing.

[@oldmanmucsi527]

Who do you go too, to fix this mess. I mean you just spent thousands for a substandard job and now have to get it all fixed properly.

[@sojournersway]

Yeh, it’s a nightmare. I deleted all the panels and sealed the roof. Then I installed a proper rack systems and larger panels. I installed proper breaker protection inside and corrected as much as I could before sending her down the road to another solid guy in the community.

[@GiantMeteor2024]

Junk the whole thing, have attorney demolish the builders assets...if he has any aside from his dull saw blade and two inch thick glasses 😬

[@thebabscat]

So much raw wood. SMH.

[@eskieguy9355]

You've made my brain hurt. I mean, come on, I've only watched KZbin videos, and even I know this is entirely wrong. Okay, the Pex connections may be right, but that's about it. P.S. The note says *AN* RV code, not *THE* RV code.

[@ben-hur7729]

it also says my instead of by

[@gfin4576]

*sees the flag in the bathroom,* well at least they're used to getting scammed...

[@greenghost6416]

I wouldnt know why they would be offended by communist level workmanshit/p.

[@mogolo6621]

my thoughts exactly when he opened that door......

[@SolHersh]

lol who built this shit

[@1stontario]

Wow is the person that wanted a budget build and finally found someone to complete their request. A professional build is over 100k. this client seems to keep dragging their bus all over the internet with videos like this from better builders. Seems like they won't want to pay, get a refund or please fix my bus for free. Again, this client wouldn't pay 100K to have a build out.

[@sojournersway]

The builder did not tell the client that they would save her money by building the bus poorly and unsafe. That was not part of the agreement.

[@1stontario]

@@sojournersway is this your bus? Most of the other content creators that are bashing this build have channels dedicated to building skoolies. Client should just pay the other 50k and fix the problems. Cheaper isn't always smarter. They should have known it was going to be over 100k unless it.s a diy which would still cost 50k in materials.

[@sojournersway]

@@1stontario As I said, the scammer who built this bus promised to do a build within the budget and did not say he was going to do Solar wrong, electrical unsafe and wrong, and install incorrect parts to “save money”. He got in over his head. You think another $30-50k would magically increase this guys competence in all the areas where he screwed up?

[@1stontario]

@@sojournersway it's never part of the agreement. let's go back to your first build compared to your current solar build. what a difference eh. i'll wait for the nail biting update. i would like to see how much the client paid in repairs to you.

[@sojournersway]

@@1stontario I think you’ve missed the bette on crest of this video. It doesn’t it matter if this was the guys first build or his 100th. He bit off more than he could chew and abandoned the client after he made a disaster of a bus.

[@johnnyreb8030]

Junk

[@greenghost6416]

Has a "Black Lives Matter" flag but complains about communist level workmanship. You cant make this sh**t up. xDDDDDDDD

[@ZephodBeeblebrox]

Paying for somebody to build a schoolbus into a camper seems strange. It's impossible to get anything more than collision only insurance on a bus conversion. For the amount of money spent, one might as well buy a real motorhome that you can get real insurance on. The idea of deciding to become homeless and live in a motorhome/van/bus is laughable. Life really isn't as portrayed on instagram or facebook.

[@sojournersway]

This isn’t the case as at all. A proper Skoolie Build can run full time AC along with everything else on solar without the need for a huge Generator on board. It costs a lot of time and money but the end product is FAR better than an RV even twice the price and doesn’t require paying to park. I’ve got buses running 2x AC units and welding! As for paying someone else to build…a smart person knows their limits. I don’t build my own tires because I’m not competent in that area, so I pay Michelin. In the same way, this person was paying someone who convinced her that he was competent and professional. All fingers point at the Builder. Your claim about insistence is also not true, though it is a more difficult!

[@ZephodBeeblebrox]

@@sojournersway My claim on insurance is based on many inquiries with many agents. I have the same message loud and clear... No.

[@TheLastMuffin007]

@@ZephodBeeblebrox you ever think some states insure differently. I know here you can get full coverage.

[@ZephodBeeblebrox]

​@@TheLastMuffin007 The point is - based on experience the answer is no - skoolies cannot be insured as RVs. I hear people online claiming otherwise but then people online make a lot of strange claims. Progressive on their website insures RV conversions but specifically excludes transit busses and school busses.

[@TheLastMuffin007]

@@ZephodBeeblebrox you 100% register them as RVs and insure them as RVs. They ARE Rvs when converted. You going to tell me you also don't insure homemade trailers? Sounds like YOUR insurance is the minority. Why would you not offer full coverage to something registered and titled as a RV