Custom galley bones in a Promaster van

When installing a fresh water tank in your galley frame, certain considerations must be addressed. Watch as I explain in this custom one of a kind Promaster van build.
Custom galley bones in a Promaster van
#onahumbleroad

[@EatSleepVan]

One crazy idea I had - I often park on a bit of a slope. How I park can change if I can use the last part of the water in the tank. Wouldn't it be nice if the tank was also on an angle, so pretty much all parking spots it uses all the water? Put the pump hose into the lowest corner. I'm talking a subtle angle like a few degrees.

[@maitildamcintyre9344]

Love the water fill location. The opening in the cabinet to be able to see the water level is another great innovation. I totally agree with no outside water fill ports. I’m sure each build will be full of cool details for us viewers to ooh and aww over. The woodwork from Alex was so gorgeous in van 01, all the woodwork in the Vagabond build is going to be a real treat to see. As always I can’t wait to see more and today was a double treat. Two videos wow 😮 I’m feeling so lucky and indulged. I watch your videos first thing in the morning and I love the way my Sunday mornings start. Hope you had a lovely relaxing weekend.

[@giga_toons]

So freaking good... thanks again George for explaining your thought process- I'd imagine other RV companies are thankful for the innovations as well. These are years of experience mixed with ingenuity and willingness to share, seriously thank you! =] PS- let me know when you begin a patron account or some other way to support, I don't want to see this channel go!

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you Mark!

[@ovmn]

Such attention to detail.. this is going to be another masterful build.

[@Samuel10463]

"Three legged tripod" - kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5CxfYeteNGImMk

[@critterkarma]

One thought about the fresh water fill only available when the door is open. That’s creates a considerable heat loss during winter if the owner isn’t in a warm weather location, when filling the tank, yes? Of course there are always compromises. All in all I love how you consider all variables in these designs. 👍😁

[@albertanasoul]

great point! But there is a solution out there...

[@mishu3271]

Excellent instructional video Humble showing products and your thought processes. 🥇 I agree with the labelled fresh tank window. I am finding that my new to me 2009 RT is annoyingly inaccurate on systems measurements which leads to unnecessary stress IMO. Irene is going to have a galley to be envied!

[@je-fq7ve]

Take a look at draw slides that are push-to-open. They wont self-open on the road. They are nice because they work as soft close and lock in place. No extra hardware needed to lock the draw. To open push in and they "pop" out.

[@dudeleboski2692]

I like the interior water fill. I know of a few cases where in countries like Morocco, where campers have had their water purposely contaminated by ill intentioned people.

[@HumbleRoad]

Precisely my point.

[@gemerson4274]

Not really a site tube, but a viewing access for the water level. Site tube would require holes in the tank, not what you want. Great idea though

[@royking2498]

Why are you cutting a extra hole? Won't the clean out hatch fit where the fill pipe is going? I coped your van 1 design and use the hatch to fill my water tank all the time now. This is a big plus when using a container to carry water to the van when no hose connection is available.

[@charlevoix418]

Hello George, I am glad you choose the pick-up tube for the water tank: based on the concept that all the holes should be on the top of the tank, I would drain it from the top pick-up tube and the pump instead of drilling a hole in the bottom for a gravity drain. In my project, I installed a small 10 gallon tank and my pump is rated at 2.3 gals/min, so emptying my tank will take about 5 minutes do do so. Great work, I look forward seeing the project advancement!

[@johnvancamper9581]

Hi from the UK. Was about to say the same thing. Why undo the efforts to prevent catastrophic leaks ? Even less accessible under the tank. These pumps will easily empty a tank and run dry with no damage. Basically just run the taps dry. No need for an extra drain at all ?? One less hole to the outside. Im with you on the inside water filler but it does create an issue having to open the door to fill up in colder weather. Worth it I think . Another great video George. Thanks again for sharing. Happy travels everyone. John

[@thomasmalenich6315]

Thanks for the great video - what fittings / parts did you use for the fill, and pump side pick up? Would love exact Amazon links if possible. Thanks in advance!

[@HumbleRoad]

Thank you for your support. All fittings are made in house with raw plumbing parts from local plumbing supply.

[@greglenoir8363]

George, if you had come from an RV background, they would have stifled your creativity, your photography background has been a boon for us followers, so good!

[@pattierney2925]

It appears that you used series 10 for this build, are you still using that size for your new galley builds? and have you considered series 15? thanks for your time George!

[@HumbleRoad]

I use a combination of 10 series and 15 series, depending on the load.

[@esparka]

Now using the tripod in the shop! ty

[@flyonthewall7026]

NICE idea thank you

[@LS-gc9yw]

Question on pick-up tube system. Where did you get that pick-up tubing and the check-valve you mentioned in a later video? How low into the tank did you place the check valve (Assume close to the tank bottom but thought I would ask). We also are concerned about putting openings anywhere but the top of the tank and really insist on an inspection port for assuring safety of the water. We are in the process of converting our new transit and have borrowed several ideas from your excellent videos. Thanks for posting.

[@HumbleRoad]

Just make sure your tubing is "food-safe." And also be sure the check valve will work in both horizontal and vertical applications. Obviously it lays on the bottom of the tank. All holes are through the top of the tank.

[@carlosmartoral6268]

Is the bed platform next to you a full or queen size? I am 6’3” and my wife is 5’4” and space is a huge commodity for us.

[@HumbleRoad]

This one was a queen size. You could use an extended queen. You will have to sleep north-south.

[@susanscovill6817]

Question George. Does that tank have bevels to prevent water from shloshing around? Cheers from Canader eh!

[@HumbleRoad]

This particular tank does not have internal baffles. However...I have a solution for every tank. Stay tuned!

[@DrShonto]

GEORGE, ❤️ loving the build quality!!!…SYSTEMS, DETAILS, OPTIONS ❤️

[@billpoolbear4658]

Awesome planing

[@birdnest5814]

I wonder how many rv manufacturers are watching your videos 🧐

[@HumbleRoad]

None, I hope...

[@tonym5878]

Master Class !!!!

[@tradersato]

If you put that metal valve on the bottom of the tank, you run the rust of freezing it in cold weather

[@MykSr]

😎

[@ianbournazel2518]

you could siphon the contents instead of making hole in bottom of tank ..

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes, and that is the solution we arrived at! From now on, no more holes anywhere except the top of any tank!

[@phildavis9671]

Ease one end of the tank. That way you have a high and low piont for you fill, vent and low point drain.

[@HumbleRoad]

I think the van does that for me! 👍

[@DavidHuffTexas]

Your ability to do "3D thinking" is pretty impressive

[@katemiller8113]

Your work and your shop show your love of design thinking. And the craftsmanship is beautiful.

[@homebuiltcamperdave5226]

Love your build quality. And thanks for that tripod trick. That’s cool.

[@julieplant444]

George, you are definately the “Wizard of Vans”. Your detail is incredible. Most of this is over my head, but I respect your attention to detail. Waiting for the final reveal and the fun decorating part. 🚐🙋🏼‍♀️

[@HuangXingQing]

Sight tube is the BEST. Simple, no moving parts or power required!

[@jasonhill2073]

Where do you get your duck billed traps at? And is that their official name? love your builds.

[@HumbleRoad]

www.rvupgradestore.com/Hepvo-5717-Hygienic-SelfSealingWasteValve-1-1-2-p/69-5288.htm

[@jasonhill2073]

@@HumbleRoad Thank- you. Planning to build out a 3500 EXT. high roof on our 4th ICE CREAM truck. Will be adding this and a long list of things I never heard of until binge watching your videos

[@navigatingtime2222]

I think it’s better to run the gray water piping on the side by the van entrance so it won’t be in the way of the drawers

[@MiniatureChickenChannel]

😍 So many tips in George's videos....if you are building your own rig....going back through all of his videos might save you some pain!! 😍 Filmed in late 2019 but this video will serve many for years to come! George you rock dude! 😍

[@jon5049]

With a water tank that large and long, there can be a lot of weight sloshing back and forth with van starts and stops. Assuming your tank has one or more baffles to reduce the "fetch" and resulting noise, you might consider having inspection ports in each tank bay.

[@christiankamal7549]

true but less dangerous than having the tank place parallel to the driver/passenger seats. imagine while turning in a sharp turn/curve more so on wet roads what could possibly happen

[@ernestoquintero747]

lol Humble Road 80/20 Van Build School in session. ;-) Wouldn't be surprised if there isn't half dozen builders fabricating vans using 80/20 in 2020. I used 80/20 15 series for 43"X32" shelf in my custom cargo trailer, I like how brackets don't intrude opening and make it rather easy to adjust shelf heights.

[@mikebernick3897]

Do you nedd a trap on the sink ? No sewer gas to smell

[@HumbleRoad]

Waterless trap installed under sink. Link to all my approved products here> www.humbleroad.tv/?p=965

[@linz_in_NZ]

Love the water tank sight gauge idea - so simple, but so effective. Agree water fill needs to be inside for security.

[@bjbhehir]

Seen it on another build it looks great with a light on it!!!

[@loda9510]

details details details - George is your guy

[@midway241]

Why don’t you have $100K subscriber? We need to tell our friends and family to watch & subscribe. George is awesome!

[@journeyman4328]

Your closing sounds are the same as I make when I wake up. I have no copyright claim on them so you can continue to use them. And feel free to come and take mine. 😂🤣

[@HumbleRoad]

🤣

[@bjbhehir]

Me too before I got both hips replaced!!

[@shamrockgirl6595]

Tripod square -- get a patent.

[@SteveElaine2019]

Hi George, love your vids and attention to detail! Unless i missed something in previous videos does your design allow for easy winterizing of your builds? You would have to put a lot of anifreeze in that horizontal tank for the pump to suck it up to fill all the water lines. Sorry but being Canadian and from Ontario i just winterized our van this weekend before going south this winter. Keep up the good work!

[@timshephard]

Another option to save space with the kitchen sink trap is to use a right angle off the sink drain straight to the back wall. Then put a normal trap - flush against the wall. Serves the same purpose feeing up valuable space under the sink. And no special parts!

[@jameskennedy9655]

Yep you're at the top! My curious question? Do you care? Would you ever offer you're amazing attention to detail 2 a good person who needs you cannot afford U???

[@gemerson4274]

Really appreciate the detail and the quality editing. We are starting our build this week. Sprinter 3500 high and long.

[@tlandolfo]

You are the man George. No way I could keep up with you! I think we are the same age. I have enough to do with work and puttering around the house as Mr. fixit! I don't think I have your patients! Glad to see you have your son on board!

[@MrKevinkuk1]

I learn something new every time I watch a Humble road video. Tripod from a spring clamp and a framing square! Thanks Maestro !

[@stanw909]

Think about a rubber mat below the tank to help with vibration that could eventually crack the tank. It would also provide a little insulation and help keep the tank from sliding by adding friction between the tank and the van floor . Great progress. 👍

[@pinay56]

This is a year old, but can you do a video on how you attached the wooden panel to the 80/20 extruded aluminum bones?

[@vidguy007]

Tripod, clever, as is the sight gage

[@nikolatesla3708]

good job! I make the same grunt sounds when I get up from kneeling as well. kthxbye

[@raczyk]

Would it not be better to have the water tank outside the van, i.e. underneath the van?

[@HumbleRoad]

Four season coach. Fresh tank and all plumbing inside the coach. Only grey tank hangs outside but will most always be empty.

[@raczyk]

@@HumbleRoad I see, does that mean you have to leave the heat on 24 / 7 when your nor in the van in the winter? Are you going to have cellular remote control for heat?

[@mnsignr]

Are those water tanks filled to the brim? What about water sloshing back and forth as you are driving; does any water rise into the fill pipe or to that pump in the rear??

[@tradersato]

You are an amazing thinker.. reminds me of me! Lol keep up the fantastic work.

[@Ruthie888]

how many gallons is that particular tank?

[@HumbleRoad]

I did not order this tank, the Careys did. If I remember it was 37 gallons.

[@Ruthie888]

@@HumbleRoad thanks!

[@cheddar2848]

Can't wait to see that van complete it's gonna be another beauty, love your work especially the 80/20 you are using. Wanna do them when I get my van.

[@jasongilman7270]

How big and what kind of freshwater tank is it? Such a great spot to put it

[@universalsignificance9006]

Oh George. The secure water inlet is an absolute. I’m going to have to buy one of these. Nice job as always!

[@katcankan7129]

I like the sight window, good idea.

[@DennisWintjes2]

#661. Amazing tips! Thanks 4 sharing.

[@shaunat589]

Not sure if I miss understood the location of the sink drain George. Is it going in front of the tank on the galley side? If so won't that take space away in the drawers? Great build, I'm sure the Vagabonds will be happy when it's done. Cheers Toz

[@HumbleRoad]

You have a keen eye, Shauna! The sink drain will actually rout towards the back of the cabinet then come around the perimeter and below tank top so as not to block drawers.

[@red-headedfool7138]

The square pod was a great idea and that was a clever way of using it I would have never thought of that thank you

[@shabbirjdana]

George sir u should now give me a job for helping you.

[@shamrockgirl6595]

Has some1 already purchased this van bld? Wondering if it's being customed created 4 them.

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes, this is a contract build for a full time couple. See their YT channel at Carey On Vagabond.

[@danwhiteman2529]

Hey George, that's a Great Idea for the inside water fill! But, I have a silly question, will you need to raise one side of the water tank so you can drain it out completely? Thanks for sharing!

[@HumbleRoad]

Rather than raise the water tank to drain it, park the van in such a way as to empty the tank. Much like turning the light bulb, rather than the ladder... 😆

[@danwhiteman2529]

@@HumbleRoad daaaa Thanks George!

[@bjbhehir]

What I do in my RV is open the drain valve and then drive around and it all drains out.

[@ConeflowerTarot]

Wow, George! You really do think of everything.

[@crv20051]

Another person made this comment, but what about keeping that water from freezing in the tank--it is inside, but no heating pad? Seems like putting that water tank drain plug underneath would be consistent with not creating a possible leak spot inside the van. Thanks for walking us through your thinking and considerations. Slick tripod trick!

[@HumbleRoad]

Yes, as the thought process continued beyond the video clip, I realized the safety aspect of a bottom mounted drain valve. And in the next video this morning (a two-fer this week) I mention the thin layering of HMV and foam under the water tank.

[@user-zm6nt8qh5j]

Not sure what the tank is made of, but assuming it's something like polyethylene plastic resin - metal fittings are often not compatible. Thank you for consistently thoughtful content!

[@HumbleRoad]

No metal fittings. www.trioniccorp.com/trionic-custom-fitting-location-kit-for-water-holding-tanks/

[@richardburguillos3118]

Another amazing share of building craftsmanship. I was wondering why you would not say want to place a 1/4 lift on the fill side of the tank so it tilts towards the pump end of the tank and then also place your drain down at that end that would help make sure most of the water ends up down at the pump end as it runs slow or is being drained? Or... is that already molded into the bottom of these tanks? Great video... on to the next.

[@HumbleRoad]

Operator options. Park the van as needed.

[@southsurreybc]

How about installing a low voltage heating pad under the tank? The tank is on the cold steel and can freeze in subzero temperatures. If you connect the heating pad to the high capacity Lithionics battery, it won't freeze.

[@HumbleRoad]

I will be layering some HMV and foam under the tank. That should be enough of a thermal break. Also, this van is going to be lived in full time. So it should be toasty warm in there when it needs to be.

[@jannezack]

You are an incredible teacher! So how do you order your 80/20? Do you order just a bunch of 8’ or do you design the counter and order cut pieces? Which way is most economical?

[@HumbleRoad]

Design and order sizes accordingly

[@smoothee01810]

Does the tank have baffles of any kind inside? How do you prevent plastic cuttings from dropping inside tank? Do you have a way of getting cuttings out if they do drop inside tank? Do you treat the inside of the tank with anti algae or bacteria treatment? Appreciate your instructional videos, thank you.

[@HumbleRoad]

I install 8 inch inspection hatches in the top of the fresh tank. Precisely so the tanks can be cleaned, inspected and treated. This particular tank did not have baffles. Baffles are available.

[@SimonTelescopium]

Love the videos, very informative and well thought through. One detail that I hear others mention is to not bolt alu. frames directly to the van but to bolt via an insulating heat break, otherwise in cold weather the van is very difficult to keep warm as the alu frame conducts directly to the cold metal shell of the van, what are your thoughts on this?

[@HumbleRoad]

I agree! And as you continue to watch my videos, (you WILL continue to watch, right? 😉) you will learn that I always sandwich in a piece of rubber wherever the aluminum touches the chassis.

[@BelindaTOV]

All hail the tripod!

[@HumbleRoad]

😄

[@marks-0-0]

Funny! I used the same Square technique before drilling through the floor for my diesel heater pipework👍

[@HumbleRoad]

Great minds think alike

[@ledrman]

Tank drain: Have the drain go out the same side as the sliding door, just like the fill hole...less cutting on the floor.

[@HumbleRoad]

Frame member under the van

[@jordanelias9156]

Love watching you explain every detail! Just had a thought, if you put the water inlet and sight line on front side or perpendicular to where you mentioned putting it, then you wouldn’t have to open the door as much in inclement weather.

[@HumbleRoad]

That is a viable suggestion, Jordan. Thank you!

[@scottanson7524]

Did I miss the final walk thru on van #1 or did you not do one ... ?? ... you killing it again george great work !

[@HumbleRoad]

I don't know how you could have missed that one, Scott! Almost 100,000 views in 2 weeks.

[@simoneboschin]

I have a question... About the 80/20 .. which size are you using? 40 by 40 ? I'm also VERY interested to understand how you attached that round corner to the structure to make possible that the wood sit flushed inside? I know there are rounded 90 degrees 80/20 components but I've been playing a bit with CAD 80/20 files and I don't get how you managed to do that round corner :D. Would you be so kind to explain me? By the way I found your videos the best, so much attention for details, well explained and really instructional. Great sense of minimalistic and pure design. My sincere compliments

[@HumbleRoad]

Depending on the module, I use 10 series and 15 series. I, being an American, use fractional profiles.The one inch quarter round 8020 makes a beautiful corner with 3/4 plywood! How I did it? Is what makes this road humble...😉

[@simoneboschin]

Humble Road thanks 🙏🏼.... i thought you were using the bigger 40 series 😳. So the smallest 15 and 10 are strong enough for the job. I’m planning to start using also 80/20 system but since I’m in Europe I need to find another supplier since isn’t 80/20 isn’t available for purchase. Btw I’ve got more or less how the round corner and the wood works but I’m still wondering how you attached that extra rounded profile 😬

[@vita-girl4345]

This is my favorite of your videos so far! Thank you for this!

[@RestaurantSeatingDesigner]

About water sloshing while driving. Can this throw of your turns on a high way or corner radius.?

[@HumbleRoad]

No worries there. Best to keep heavy items such as water tanks as low as possible. Some builders hang them under the van. But then they are exposed to the freezing temperatures.

[@LifeMyWay007]

-Locate the tank drain under the 8" access so it is accessible also. -What about pressure buildup in the tank? As you fill it up the displaces air has to go somewhere and as water is being removed by the pump air needs to enter to avoid creating a vacuum. Pressure will also buildup while driving. -Have you considered adding a heat mat under the water tank to resist freezing issues in cold weather?

[@HumbleRoad]

tank drain suggestion is a good one. As for pressure imbalance, I did not mention the fact that I will install a vent tube which travels up the inside wall. In my second video of the day, I mention how the tank will sit on a couple layers of foam and HMV.

[@LifeMyWay007]

@@HumbleRoad The HMV/foam board is fine when in daily use or winterized. It is possible on occasion to have the Van sitting a couple days in low temps but not wanting to empty the tank. Battery heat mat would be good too. Not necessarily mandatory but worth a conversation with the new owners. Much easier OEM install than retrofit due to running dedicated electric to it.

[@jeffsteinmetz7188]

Thank you for the tips!

[@Roobah]

Tripod Square = neat little hack that should be patented. Vote: 90 degrees out the bottom close to the outside front edge, because it will be easier to position the vehicle in a manner to drain from that corner, and you won't have to fiddle with the mechanism inside the vehicle. However, you probably want to position it somewhere pretty close to the frame to protect it from rocks or road debris and angle it to keep the bottom from plugging up. Outside the vehicle you can grease the t-handle to keep it from corroding and sticking shut. Just make it stainless steel. I'm sure you already got all of that figured out, though.

[@tiredmonkey5000]

I love the 80/20 it's so versatile but I wonder if something comes loose will rattles be an issue?

[@HumbleRoad]

I used locktite and lock washers. That is not an absolute guarantee, but that's why I want my vans coming in once every year to do the tighten up.

[@leandrolopez6562]

Where is the completed van tour video of this build I cant find It

[@HumbleRoad]

It's really not that hard to find! kzbin.info/www/bejne/epKlpqGhYq2Jlas

[@jamesgill5511]

One suggestion, put 1/8" foam core foil insulation under the tank before locking it down. With the tank inside the van, the most likely point of freezing(and damaging the tank) will be through conduction where it meets the metal floor if cold air is passing underneath.

[@HumbleRoad]

We think alike, James. In the next video this morning, I mention just that!

[@jamesgill5511]

@@HumbleRoad Yeah, I watched the second video immediately after and realized you addressed the issue I had commented about🤦‍♂️.

[@leandrolopez6562]

What capacity does that tank hold? and where did you buy it?

[@HumbleRoad]

I believe that was a 35 gallon tank . Owner purchased.

[@cheryldavis2655]

Excellent video. 👍

[@hazelcoate9203]

good tips, thank you

[@ninja1antelope]

May be a stupid question- but would there be drawbacks to having the fresh water flush go into the grey tank?

[@HumbleRoad]

If you mean toilet flush, there is none. A composting toilet will be installed. If you mean sink and shower drain, that will be plumbed into the grey tank.

[@ninja1antelope]

Thanks- good to know

[@arongatt]

Is that a hollow tank or it has separators inside to help with water dispersion?

[@HumbleRoad]

There are no baffles in this tank.

[@berniekeene868]

Even though DIY might be some fun and I’m sure I would learn a lot you have me convinced it would be much quicker, less frustrating and a much better van to live in to seek your help when the time comes!!!

[@HumbleRoad]

You know where to find me. I have a feeling I can never leave!

[@berniekeene868]

Humble Road I just got back a week ago from 3 weeks in Portugal. My first week and third week there were in a rented CamperVan. One was a sprinter the other a ducato I liked the drive of the ducato better! I took my road bike!! All I needed was my two dogs!! They’ll come along when I retire there in a few years. I plan to use Portugal as my home base for exploring Europe. I met many lovely people from all over Europe. Everyone said Van life is great there. I’m 3 to 5 years away from making the move. My main decision will be Buy a van there or ship one from USA. Leaning towards shipping because I will want a big lithium battery bank to run air conditioner for the dogs while I am biking up Alpe d’huez and Mont Ventoux!! I’ll keep u posted!! After 5 years or so in Europe I plan to move back here. Maybe explore South America too!! The Humble Road is a long road!!

[@HumbleRoad]

Take pictures!

[@dth999]

Good stuff.

[@mfsolutions]

Great video... and the water fill site "tube" is awesome.... here is an idea... instead of a momentary push button you could have an undercounter light on the end with the 8" inspection port that comes on when you open that cabinet. before filling the Fresh Water tank you open that cabinet and the light comes on (or you could have your momentary on a parallel circuit with the cabinet door switch).

[@nickfrankruyter6805]

Would love more info on the size of the water tank ans where I could buy one. Looking to make a very similar kitchen with water tank underneath like you did! :)

[@lucillehjort8110]

How much do you charge to make a van liveable? You have genius ideas and plans I think.

[@HumbleRoad]

It depends on how long it's been dead...

[@lucillehjort8110]

Humble Road haha