CUSTOM DIY TINY VAN | FULL VAN TOUR!!! ( 2012 Ford Transit Connect )

briarwoodvans.com
This week I give a walk through of a camper van I was hired to build! This build took roughly 6 weeks to complete, it took some unique modifications but all in all it turned out pretty awesome!
MY PERSONAL VAN TOUR: • TINY CUSTOM VAN CONVER...
Safer solution for 110v on outside of van: goo.gl/ixmxmT
LED Lights I recommend: amzn.to/2JVx7jM
Maxx Fan: amzn.to/2rl5jP6
Solar Panels: amzn.to/2whOQQw
Charger Controller: amzn.to/2rmz0i0
Battery: amzn.to/2rsvFPp
Inverter: amzn.to/2IgzErK
Bluetooth Battery unit: amzn.to/2wgRx4P
Gear I Use:
My Camera - amzn.to/2E7m1pZ
My Other Camera - amzn.to/2CksPQB
My Mic - amzn.to/2CjDlay
My Little Tripod - amzn.to/2BQ9pBX
My Favorite Light - amzn.to/2Cks7mp
My Favorite Lighting accessory - amzn.to/2C6aJoC
Thanks for watching!
Follow me!
Instagram - / justamanwithavan

[@AishaMthegodd4m4zon]

This is by far my favorite Transit Connect conversion I've ever seen. So neat, so utilitarian, yet it covers everything you need to hit the road comfortably and get off the grid. Great job, man.

[@BrianTafoya]

Nice build. I can't stress how bad it is to use a male connector outside to supply 120v. The female is designed specifically for that purpose, and does exist in the same configuration. The situation can be lethal, so serious consideration should be taken to remedy the use of an incorrect outlet. (coming from a journeyman electrician!)

[@Josh_Oakes]

If you could link the female version that would be much appreciated, thanks!

[@BrianTafoya]

Josh Oakes www.gordonelectricsupply.com/index~text~6015112~path~product~part~6015112~ds~dept~process~search?gclid=CjwKCAjw8r_XBRBkEiwAjWGLlB4EFg7s3jGy4-BQEW_BygX7odxIVRiS2D6YBUImZSzuQAWvNu3grBoCmbMQAvD_BwE

[@Josh_Oakes]

How the heck did I miss this! I looked and looked, only found a typical outdoor outlet for a home ( wasn't sure how weather sealed this would be ). This is a MUCH better option. Thank you! Wasn't particularly fond of setting up the 110 on the outside but, I just installed it as requested.

[@BrianTafoya]

Josh Oakes glad I could help!

[@MargaretG57]

Brian Tafoya ii

[@HumbleRoad]

Josh, you did a mighty fine job on this project. I love your design and build solutions. Excellent work! George.

[@Marimilitarybrat]

Beautiful and creative. Could you use combination wood/plastic decking for the bed frame to reduce weight??

[@thijmen766]

Humble Road s

[@NancyRileyNuniverse]

I agree, absolutely awesome job and I love that your video does not have music playing!!!!

[@nomadpi1]

Astute planning develops meticulous workmanship. Attractive interior - Better Homes and Garden quality. This is fabulous. The most informative video I've seen.

[@sharongriffiths4796]

That dog bed support thingy is GENIUS!

[@johnziegelbauer4999]

As a retired carpet installer who has done many groovy vans and boats you have done a great job ...

[@jublywubly]

Great build. Just one thing I'd do differently is the latch for the extra part that folds down from the dog's platform. The eyelet is a potential danger, because it sticks up. I'd use a strap with velcro that attaches to the under-side of the fold-down platform. That way there's nothing sticking out.

[@meshellsmybell]

Wow ive watched a ton of connect conversions and this is by far the BEST design layout ive seen. Im converting one in a few months and this is so helpful and inspiring.(love the dog bed!) Thank you for sharing!

[@kathrynblodgett1969]

Ever since I saw a Transit van I knew this is what I wanted. Very cool. If wishes were Pegisus we all would fly. Few ideas of my own, to squeeze a composting toilet, or the like, under the bed. And fridge to finish it out. Oh!!! Outdoor shower system mounted (some how) inside the backdoor.

[@theStepFamm]

i think pulling a trailer with a full bathroom/shower would be ideal for a van this small.

[@jmrichsonsr]

S†EPFΔM STUDiO Front wheel drive. Can’t pull s trailer.

[@VitorMadeira]

*6 STAR review!!!* Loved it. Also, *FINALLY* (!) US cars are getting similar to European cars. Here in Portugal we have plenty of those Ford transit Connect and it was a pleasure watching a video with an american KZbinr that actually shows a car that we can also use here in Europe. This is *precious! THANK YOU!*

[@Trailblazers323]

Vitor Madeira Read about the “chicken tax” passed by Lyndon Johnson in the 60’s.

[@littlewhitedory1]

@@Trailblazers323 Me too! Couldn't believe how crazy the rules are!

[@anitablades6033]

Thank you for showing how you made the bed strong even when it was pulled out, and still have lots of space underneath !!!

[@johnwang9914]

The interesting bit is that Ikea has a day bed that can pull out to be a double. I think it's called Brimnes and there's one in their children's section called Släkt which seems similar. If these fit, there would be no need to custom build a slide out bed. That would be almost half the build.

[@looneytoonsama]

You did a great job! The dog bed seat is an awesome feature. I love watching van conversions, innovation and engineering with creativity and determination that you'll finish!

[@itsmecandi9951]

Omg! The dog seat/bed is awesome! You can tell this person loves their dog!

[@coolcatcarolena4951]

What an awesome build. That dog bed is the cleverest thing I've seen.

[@lepidoptery]

I feel like there's a potentially big market for that... too bad it's probably not one size fits all and would need to be fitted to each vehicle model.

[@susanmathis1682]

Amazing!!!!

[@edgarlg345]

I thumbs up once I saw how much love was given to the dog!

[@linframauro8877]

Just don't forget to fix the dog or the cage for in case of an accident they aren't thrown through the window

[@ReneaDooserider]

That dog platform With a harness attached to the seat belt Is just what I need. 💕💕

[@bjornmundt5801]

There are several Videos about projects from people with their VAN life and VAN living. It is always interesting to see, what tiny but cozy "dwellings" build in there. Except a full bathroom it's all in there. I like that!

[@lennym1273]

Finally someone that knows what their doing, mad props to you...

[@YabadabadooMrMagoo]

Josh you created a masterpiece! I’m so taken with your design and sense of practicality that I want to recreate your design for myself. Greatest design for the ford transit connect I have seen so far.

[@gianttravelsbyvan9670]

Here's some alternative thoughts for your build: kzbin.info/door/YlR2t3yTZ8Z2cScBTQEZbg

[@BohoStitcher]

You had me at dog platform! 💞🐾💞🐾💞🐾💞

[@unionpacific8330]

Looks awesome make sure to change the screws for magents just in case you need to acces the battery quickly

[@Marimilitarybrat]

You did a great job on this build. Very professional details.

[@ennzee5393]

Clean n neat..love the bed style, strong, sturdy n compact!

[@LegacyFarmandHomestead]

Dude, having exposed 110 can be DEADLY. That is a really REALLY bad idea. Its not just a "ZAP".

[@taradead]

I agree. Using an adapter into a female plug is a tiny hassle for a lot of safety.

[@TheAustralianMade]

Who cares, live life on the edge. Fast and loose! And I'm an electrician...oh lawdy. Ok I do care.

[@joemiskowitz2669]

It's the suicide switch the client wanted installed in case life became too shitty.

[@deadthem]

At the very least, a warning label should be present

[@lindasue8719]

At the very least there should be a hazard stickered above that...abd maybe a way to lock it so some kid doesn’t come along and poke at it.

[@Samuel10463]

Loft roof would be nice. Being able to stand in a van is priceless.

[@DaDavidVids]

*Spends literally 1/3rd of the video talking about the dog platform* For those without pets, tour starts at 4:26. Roasts aside, what a strong build! •You’re a genius for making the battery accessible if need be, but hidden otherwise. A lot of #VanLifers dedicate precious storage space to these things and you did it another way. •Despite feeling about 90% finished, this is such a clean little home build. Maybe because no one is living in it yet. •How many watts is that inverter? •Did you do spray adhesive on the automotive carpet lining in addition to those screws? •What’s the headroom like? I love the Transit Connects and you have a lot of clever ideas (I want that cell phone booster) and regardless if you see this, I wanted to reach out and tell you.

[@edgarbleikur1929]

The link provided indicates it's a 2000w inverter

[@STinGa157]

This is a pretty clean start. Can you tell us more about ... 1. How tall is the owner. These cars seem pretty small. 2. How long will this be used for living? Is this for long weekends or a more long term life style. I am curious about the cooking accessories (what stove, how many pots and pans, how much food is being planed for). Thanks in advance.

[@EdgarMartinezfilms]

Strong peter McKinnon feel to this vlog! Super dope edit too

[@yuminkitano1367]

this is awesome! A lot of space, not complicated as other converted home. I especially love the bed and counter. That's the main priority.

[@rowserm]

That dog bed ledge is so very sweet. Great job.

[@PNWhashmits]

just got a 2010 yesterday...watching your channel like a madman.

[@Josh_Oakes]

Shoot me a DM on insta (justamanwithavan) if you have any question I can help with, good luck!

[@GentleTent]

Awesome van! We are always amazed by the different ways a van can be adapted.

[@channelremoved1917]

This is the best build I have seen yet. Very practical and not to busy at all. Great job!👍

[@Josh_Oakes]

Thanks!

[@channelremoved1917]

@@Josh_Oakes you're welcome.

[@Neolithika]

This is very nice. I didn't think one could do too much with these vans as they are so small, but you have proven me wrong.

[@James_XII]

Probably one of my favorite Mini Van Life Builds! Very efficient and clean!

[@minimyvan3098]

Great work mr.josh.. I started my van life at last.

[@spy33r]

i am impressed with the conversion, very nicely done...although just one thing came to mind, the door at the back has no lock ( let's say ur cooking chances are a gush of wind might suddenly push fhat door wide then their goes ur dinner). unless you've already installed one and just forgot to mention.

[@laurahouck5435]

Loving this build! Going van shopping in the next two weeks. What would be an estimated cost for this type of build?

[@cheryletribble5429]

Just so impressed. The electrical element seems so over the top. Outstanding!

[@DiHandley]

I must say that I’m very impressed with your standard of work. Excellent use of available space and quality materials throughout. Well thought out and executed. I’m subbed!

[@thegreendoormx4441]

Advise: 1) DoggyPorch - round off the corners . Router/roundover bit. It would have looked so much more professional. It is an awesomely efficient design you got there. Nice job. 2) PawMat thingy- mold a piece of butyl or vinyl to the contours of the dash. Cheap, quick, and again it would look more buttoned up for what the customer probably spent on that.

[@Japhill75]

Awesome build out Josh..! I’m sure they will be very happy with the results.

[@TheDragonflySoul]

Exactly what I had in mind for my bed, just a little higher with storage underneath - would you sell plans to the bed frame?

[@openeverydoor8879]

@CrazyReviews oh my goodness thank you! I'm rebuilding what I'm living in already

[@ryanlangstonluna]

Such an intentional build. Inspiring to see what you created with the space!

[@bethaminov9481]

Beautiful build! Are you thinking of taking on more projects? I am looking at having a van built.

[@crashton999]

I’ve driven one of these for a couple years now and it’s been reliable for me :)

[@HierFilms]

New subscriber here! You should do a video specifically on solar setup. You sound like you know exactly what you're doing there.

[@texasoutlook60]

Josh there is nothing more I can say that hasn't already been said below but it looks really professionally done and very sturdy. Great craftsmanship! I maybe looking you up when I get my van!

[@niko_t42]

Cool build. Nice to see you back in youtube.

[@MargaretG57]

Niko T iii

[@tonyl2220]

This build is much better than the basic!

[@vidguy007]

When I watched your build I had the feeling you would be building more. Beautiful work, some motorhome manufacturer should hire you for a variety of reasons. You are a genius at the small things, hope there is a successful business for you in this. Small motorhomes seem to be popular on the road, my 16 foot Tiger gets a lot of comments.

[@josedelossantos2428]

Awesome job video excellent craftsmanship 👍🏻 I like it when they connect with the client satisfaction guaranteed.

[@taradead]

Kinda joined the hater bandwagon on this video earlier...but now that I have my own compact cargo van, I realize the artistry of your build. It's really professional looking and inviting (which is so surprising because I thought your first van sucked).

[@michaellumabanreyes3669]

what are the measurement of the bed,sink cabinet the WIDTH/HEIGHT/LENGTH.and iterior of the van how can you stand inside the van from floor to roof.

[@KindredSpirit909]

Beautiful, clean installation. You obviously take great pride in your work. Nice handiwork. Thanks for sharing!

[@clarencetroy520]

I really like this build, but it seems like you took a majority of the usable space and filled it with electronics. Would it have been better to build a power box structure and place it elsewhere?

[@SnapszDuhh]

Clarence Troy Agreed. No space for anything else.

[@hello_sunshine19]

Thisis exactly what I want, in a bigger van. ❤

[@petermastenbroek5264]

Great job Josh, these clients were surely impressed with everything you did to your own van. Good luck with any future jobs coming up.

[@gulpbiys5705]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZC8koiHf6aEibc ..

[@geoknee]

That dog seat is brilliant!!

[@gaylinm]

I would LOVE to have you do one of these for me... however, I'm starting to think this is one of those projects that I need to do myself! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@sherryberardino6032]

I love how you build the bed ,the support is awsome ,and the dog ramp is awsome,never seen that before,.

[@jofuji8255]

Very nice but how many electrical items does he need???

[@mojomarshall]

Jo Fuji not all the electric outlets will be used at all times. Having multiple outlets throughout the van makes it more flexible and less cluttered.

[@aprilflick8200]

Lol. For sure but, how about a cool porta potty, portable shower, cooking essentials, just saying. Your awesome Josh!

[@mymai2792]

Such a great platform solution for a dog. Genius!!!!

[@cybeer67]

MEGA-LIKE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Awsome job Josh !!! Now I know what and who to call for mu build !

[@barbaralim8152]

Luis Cosme Z. Hi am

[@debraeichner7784]

I second Vin Vlogger. Will diffently be looking this one over and over. New to all of this and just purchased transit... been looking at everyones posts of interiors for past yr. At first for kind of van for me, then ideas of interior design. This is closest to what I want exactly. Thx.

[@Jack-jv6es]

I love van tours!!!

[@ridingismusic]

Perfect utilizing of a space and accuracy. What an excellent build!. BTW, about the dog on the front seat - in some countries it prohibited by law to transport dog on the front seat. ...But, it is owner's problem - the build itself is just excellent.

[@ypaut]

"The fan is pretty cool"

[@redyellowpink01]

Currently got a Honda crv micro camper conversion for weekends but it's just not big enough for 2 people. Especially as we're in Scotland and everything is often wet so it can be quite unpleasant. Looking at getting one of these vans as you can get a decent one for around £2k. Very inspiring video, especially like the pull out bed design and the overhead storage

[@azndoc04]

You did a great job on this new van build.

[@danmorocco]

A really nice, clean-cut build. Looks great!

[@judyhobday4760]

I absolutely loved my transit connect. Sadly I listened to other relative and traded it for a 150 Ford truck which I hated. Now have a Ford escape and fixing it for weekend camping. Miss my Trans connect.. Loved your build. The dog bed pretty darn cool.

[@ellesnyder942]

How do you measure to make the curves when fitting items to the van? Such as fitting the edge of the dog platform to the door etc.

[@Josh_Oakes]

Lots of cardboard templates!

[@MegaBpop]

This is super impressive. Very clean lines. Congrats. I want one, do you make for other ppl? Next time, can you slow down the camera a little.. That Max Air fan is super impressive. You really put yourself ahead of others I have seen.

[@Sarah-Collen]

Hi Josh, I've watched this a few times now and its excellent. Would you happen to have put together any plans for making the bed? My Suzuki Carry has two levels in the back and I wanted to make the bed in two sections. Yours looks so sturdy. Thanks you for your content. Sarah in the UK

[@americatraveler1044]

How much did total build cost?

[@Casper50002]

A lot.

[@usualsuspect527]

Very great job! Comfortable and spacious, place for the bed, place for the table..., all in order. Simple and useful. No need for a camping car 100,000 K. נוח מאוד ומרווח, מסודר מאוד. אהבתי מאוד. ❤👍👍👍

[@oslecestrada2900]

Can u do Conversion on my Sienna 2007 sir?And how much?

[@peeka-boodirect9865]

hey Josh, can you tell me approx cost to do conversion if we hire you to do this?

[@007NunyaBizNess]

I really like the bed design.

[@tropcm]

Give some angle to solar panel so it wont be get dirty as fast as now. It will improve solar panels efficiency.

[@joelyons8238]

That's way awesome, he did a great job on it. I like it a lot..😀👍

[@grannyary]

No offense, I tried to watch this video but the background music was annoying. I had to mute it which was pointless but i did see the bed design that i liked and the fan. Can i get info on those items.

[@mojomarshall]

Ary Trinidad link to the fan in description. It’s a Maxxair Deluxe.

[@likewow3804]

No offense, but I am about to go right ahead and insult you.

[@justrandomstuff3859]

what do you mean it isn't even audible

[@raoulduuke]

Just realised there even was music

[@rheannahoffmann385]

Interesting, I also barely heard the music, gentle guitar in the background. It was a great video, I hope you find a way to hear it

[@bjbhehir]

Nice job, very clean and functional!! I'm really enjoying your videos, thanks for taking the time to produce them!!!

[@Josh_Oakes]

Thanks, more to come!

[@AlilishSuki]

Wow, these videos are so AMAZING!

[@marysiniawa5371]

I purchased my Ford transit last week. Trying to figure out how to design it. Love this idea. Can you do my van. Im a senior ready to move in but the solar and all that electrical confuses me. You did an awesome job. Thanks for sharing.

[@Josh_Oakes]

Send me an email for a quote! [e-mail]

[@exploratorium44]

3:55 "And I definitely weigh more than 40 lbs 😬" 😂

[@lindaconlin7807]

May I ask how much it cost for the conversion?

[@tonydavisbusiness]

Would like to know myself

[@jamesholt5569]

Linda Conlin so were are you.

[@jefferytaylorson1278]

Packs a punch...great job!

[@theresedignard7445]

Regarding the dog seat. There's no seat belt clip harness, nor did you mention how to turn off the dog killing airbag. How do you get an airbag on/off switch?

[@celestynasgarden3729]

Yes, after having an airbag "protect" me when I hit a deer, I made my dog ride in the back when I took him.. They come out at 200 miles an hour, I've read. A way to harness would be a must for my dog.

[@attheranch873]

I was thinking the same thing, most people don’t even think about the airbag or the dog becoming a projectile through the front window. I’d like my dog to be able to stay upfront, but she stays in the back now.

[@luciac.419]

I was thinking the same thing! Please let the dog ride in the back when in drive & only lay on the bed area when the car is NOT driving... I hope this message gets to the car owner

[@thisspotrules3631]

Good point on on the airbag. Not to mention a pet roaming loose in the front passenger area can now earn you a distracted driving ticket in most cities. Same as using a cell phone. Chain that puppy up!

[@101perspective]

I'm pretty sure that my 2012 Transit connect automatically turned off the air bag in the passenger seat if not enough weight was on it. I'm not sure what that weight point is though but I suspect it probably is always off for this guy's dog thanks to how the weight is distributed. That board does sit on the cushion but not really into the seat itself. So, I doubt much weight is being registered by the sensor. I could be wrong though. I know there is a light though on the dash that lets you know if the passenger side air bag is currently on or not.

[@moiradietrich6565]

Good job well done

[@mikeharrison5087]

Great work Josh I love your videos get so many ideas, beyond my abilities but still will have a go!Have a transit but the spec is different over here in uk.Keep up the motivating videos great work dude

[@secretdaisy6484]

I was really impressed with the wiring & electrical set up. The doggie 🐶 area is very well thought out. 👍☮️🌞🌟🐾🚐

[@medinehlimited8329]

Very smart design. I wish to see a small van that has wc and a small kitchen😁

[@mickeyj71hp]

I really like the way that you built this van.

[@rocdiver809]

Very nice! Great idea with the accessory port! How much does the build cost?

[@GiggleFishy]

Another awesome build, Josh - great job! Looks like you've got some more coming up too, judging by the comments.

[@Marimilitarybrat]

Very skilled work. Uncomplicated and versatile.

[@victoriashoesmith1074]

Delightful design and beautifully done. The dog bed is brilliant!

[@vqcruz572]

So much detail! Looks perfect.

[@TariAkpodiete]

one of the most interesting and informative vanlife videos i've seen. you've got another subscriber! i'm going to have to listen/watch this again, but did i miss about the insulation under the floor and behind the walls?

[@JR-playlists]

I bet the customer was very happy with their new RV. A hair on your lens huh? :o)