Safety Concerns & How I Installed A Window A/C Unit In My Van - Air Conditioning Problem Solved

I address comments concerning my safety and show my way of installing a window style air conditioner unit in my van.
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My name is Dave and I travel with my dog Bella in a 1990 Fleetwood Bounder Class A Motorhome. This is our tour across America. So join us if you’re open to travel, fun, excitement, hiking & exploring. Wish us luck on this adventure! Maybe we’ll see you down the road sometime. Happy trails!
My channel is about full time RV Living in an older RV while keeping the wheels rolling on a budget. I do the repairs, updates and upgrades myself. I’ve become my own RV Mechanic/Medic! I seek boondocking opportunities every chance I can and power the RV with 500 watts of solar and approximately 500 amp hours of batteries. RV Resorts are just not our style!
Find us on Facebook here - / davesrvlife

[@myvanlife1]

There aren't enough videos out there showing how to install a window a/c in a vehicle, I've looked, thank you for taking the time to do this, you are the man!!!

[@DavesRVLife]

Awesome, thank you!

[@cherriemckinstry131]

@@DavesRVLife Your an awesome guy! I like seeing what you can do and helpung others gain confidence in being able to trouble shoot a problem. Even then if someone else fixes it you got an idea what your in for.

[@chuckstith838]

The unit will create condensate. How are you handling this issue so moisture ( water) drains outside and not in the van?

[@jaya.0069]

@@chuckstith838 A/C is tilted downward to the outside, shouldn't be a problem!

[@donnaradonski2470]

It’s so cute Bella’s always in the “let’s go” position. She’s not going to miss an opportunity to go.

[@TylerTheSplicer]

Thank you so much for this video!!!! I’m a fiber optic tech and I work out of a Ford E350 bucket van. Just built this exact setup to the T and it works great!!!!!

[@TylerTheSplicer]

*Update* I put in a 6000 BTU window unit and it gets Ice cold. You could definitely use a 5000BTU but my company paid for it so might as well😂

[@ET_Videos]

Great A/C mounting for sure!

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks Eric!

[@glenysperry3421]

Your portable man cave is really coming along!

[@MICHELLE-gu2qc]

I like that portable man cave.

[@cherriemckinstry131]

@@MICHELLE-gu2qc yes... neat!

[@janicepeck4828]

Hi from OKLAHOMA. Excellent ! Your quite the rv guro,Dave. You can work on my rig anytime😀 Thank you for sharing. My Uncle did the same except he put the ac in front passinger window!. He would take the ac out on long trips prior arriving his destination then put ac back in window in his little minni winni!.

[@kathyreeves8853]

I had a ac installed like that worked great. Just park in the shade when running if you can. At least the ac

[@marielinejuillard9495]

Good idea to paint the ac black too. It will blend with the window.

[@tomgeezer2342]

Good job man I like that need to do it myself

[@craigtarbox3499]

I haven't heard of another Tarbox in a while .

[@louparry7721]

As usual Dave, you're on the ball! I like the black and white as well. Very classy! Also because it matches BELLA!! stay cool! See you soon! God bless!

[@dixiewilliams861]

It looks fine just the way it is. When the people get their own vans they can paint them the way they want them.

[@nancyhoward7575]

Yes Dave I couldn’t agree more. That black paint would pull everything together! Can’t wait to see the finished results.

[@marilynrenaud1892]

Dave you did a great job installing the AC. 👍👍👍👍👍😊

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks 👍

[@russellhancock9765]

If You have a way to catch the water that drips out of, it would be good for bathing, I don't think I would drink it, but washing clothes or toilet stuff would be fine.

[@chiliman321]

Looks good as long as it drains completely out the back. Looks like you aced it to me! Thanks for sharing!

[@cherriemckinstry131]

Dave I love the things you do and that "can do spirit." We have to be able to do some things for ourselves or we loose our individuality and creativity as well. I'm so glad I found you and your channel.

[@kele1264]

Thanks for showing us the detail of the ac install, Dave. The fact that you do things right, best, completely, is why I love watching and listening to how you do things. My Dad taught me the same way. Really love your electric bike! I'd favor black paint for the a/c window, makes it look more symmetrical with the other window. I think I'd leave the white fan cover up there. Just my opinions. Hope you tell us how well running that ac works out with solar. Inquiring minds want to know! Great video! Thank you! See ya next time!

[@MeezerGurlMakes]

That rig is so well-put together all you need is those little slots that the money trucks have on either side to be completely fortified from outside forces. :^D People need to trust the Dave process more...

[@workingmaninavan2621]

I used a portable a/c and vented it out the passenger window last summer. I’ve been thinking of installing a window unit in my van rear door to save space inside and more convenience. Thanks for sharing

[@jamessherman7570]

Looks really nice ✌😎👍 great job

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks 👍

[@augie2258]

Yeah good idea installing a good Carbon Monoxide Alarm. I would be worried having that generator running so close to the van. Remember Carbon Monoxide is a colorless and oderless gas. Keep safe and Cool.

[@robertaustin7757]

Hello olga . Yes I heard him say .. I didn't smell anything while the gen was running! And I thought uh oh like you did. Odorless and colorless. Was happy when he said he will use one . I know two people that died in their sleep from a gas leak . God bless. Greetings from Oklahoma

[@georgecarrasco4356]

You sir, are a lifesaver. Was thinking about doing the same thing with my 1995 Camry.

[@Blackopsmechanic338]

Poor Bella wants to go for a ride! Get’m Bella. Lol. Peace

[@Andrea-gk1cd]

That's how I set my air conditioner, I just used metal.

[@lethamurray3536]

Ha Ha! You starred the van and Bella looked so disappointed when you turned the van off. I think she is ready to roll... Regarding the vent cover, if your concerned about how the black would do, just cover it with a dark towel or tarp to see what kind of difference it makes.. Good job on the air conditioner. I'm with you on the extra support. Would rather know I have too much than having to try to resupport something later.

[@everintransit4240]

I did it myyyyy waaaayyyy!

[@DavesRVLife]

lol...

[@bambihargrove6499]

Looking good 👍

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks 👍

[@JR-playlists]

Dave, I wouldn't bother either, there's almost as much hanging on the inside balancing it out somewhat. You did a great job installing that unit. Just make sure you don't park nose down when you run it, so it drains outside. Black also dissipates heat better for the same reason it absorbs heat

[@darlenehorn8337]

Dave you are the greatest like I said about a year ago I would be willing to adopt you as another grandson!! Thank goodness you have such a great deer protection dog!! LOL take care. Traveling Grandma

[@lindagolden9892]

back by popular demand… 👏…hooray; actually it would be nice to see you and Bella more often. 👨🏻‍🔧 🐕

[@samuelbruce6289]

It looks good. And it looks solid. Let us know how it holds over time and miles.

[@OverlandOne]

Very nice job. Thank you for sharing this.

[@anfieldroadlayoutintheloft5204]

good vid stay safe on travels lee

[@DavesRVLife]

Thank you, I will

[@lauriemcewen7156]

All that hard work is paying off Dave. Love YOUR ideas. Hugs to Bella

[@russellhancock9765]

That sounds like what Ford Did with My 1998 Expedition with the 5.4 liter Engine. I think they just said let's hurry up and build this engine. It has blown out 1 spark plug so far. I have heard that they usually blow at least 2.

[@dalejohnson5148]

The A/C looks very good that way I have a 1991 Chevy G20 Van that I am redoing it inside and out I might think about putting a A/C in it

[@coastalkev3776]

Nailed it. You went with 'Arctic King ' . Good man . Mine's two and a half years old and going strong. Mine came in black , go figure. These newer units don't have a drain hole. The water gets slung around and evaporates. BUT ! Here along the Gulf Coast the humidity is soo thick that I drilled a 1/8" hole underneath. Carefully. This thing around here puts out buckets of water ( it seems ). You could add small break lights to the bike basket. You'll be fine. Final test ...when your a/c is complete...get the garden hose out and simulate a rain shower over the unit. I hate a wet pillow. You are set . Go man go !

[@coastalkev3776]

...one more note. Unless you want to enter your van in a car show ( which would be cool if they had such a thing ) The color scheme of you van doesn't matter to the woods , lakes , fish , birds or other nomads. Non van dwellers will always wonder ..."What is that ? and how does it work.? " Most comments I get are ,,," wow , that's cool"

[@MizzMoss]

Thank you!

[@DavesRVLife]

You're welcome!

[@pamhutzell8268]

I agree its coming along, you do a great job!

[@carlahead5072]

Hey Dave and Bella!!! You’ve done a terrific job planning how you’re going to do everything as you’re very creative and a great handyman !! You’ve done a terrific job putting that air conditioner in and painting the back solid black how awesome !! Can’t wait to see how everything’s going to look once you get the van completely like you wanted it. Many thumbs up 👍 on a job well done so far!! Take care and much love to Bella. Thanks for sharing your videos on the progress of your van-until next time. 🙂🙂🙂👍👍👍

[@wtbm123]

Cool

[@hutch4993]

Thank you for this detailed video. I gleaned lots of inspiration for my ac install from yours

[@barackmycat9448]

Oh yeah, black will look great!

[@MICHELLE-gu2qc]

Amazing job Dave, you are very handy with your hands. My caravan is almost ready for delivery now I just have to learn how to tow it. I really like your instructional and review videos. Your van wont be long now before you can hit the road.

[@lori5142]

Detailed for those who want to do it, nice of you to explain all that.

[@mariagraham8752]

Hi Dave you have done a great job on your van the back is nice to leave it just the way you have it.When are you getting back on the road.

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks! ...and as soon as I can...soon!

[@pennylee6569]

Awesome job 👍👌🆗 see yah Dave and Bella hugs always

[@SteveGullett]

Looks good. Nice job!

[@henryroman5997]

Nice, now that is a classic hillbilly style a/c sticking out the window 👌 😎

[@KatyInNH]

Awesome sauce!!!!!! Looks great Dave!!!

[@RetireWithLess]

Eye spied Bella's surprise gift you spoke of in the last video lol.

[@turisteandoentexas]

What an interesting way to put an AC!!! 👍

[@cybeer67]

Thanks for sharing ! Will do in my 2006 E250.

[@Brianrockrailfan]

liked video

[@Bellasafari]

Thanks for explaining those numbers and the difference on the drill! I am hoping to do a similar install on my PRomaster:)

[@squareheadcoughlin5592]

I really like the mountain scenes on the sides and back of the van ANOTHER GREAT VLOG !

[@ronbarnett5596]

Great job on the A/C, in baseball terms that's what you call knocking it out of the park. 👍😊

[@tonyjirik2145]

You can bring ac into the interior farther. The inlet can pull inside air and still run efficiently. Just for esthetic reasons. I like it 👍

[@russelbaird5499]

Are you planning on adding a tube to take away the A/C condensation water so it won’t splash all over your generator and what ever else you may have on your carrier ?

[@danielparker1808]

Beautiful job Dave 👍

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks 👍

[@pamelag2223]

It's looking good! Thanks for the tip on the drill torque adjustment, I said duh to myself, why didn't anyone ever tell me about that before? Bad deer! haha!

[@alwaysbepreparedwithjeff3245]

Thanks Again Dave For Streaming

[@genesiesky3756]

Good idea on the reflectors.

[@marcellafolkmann7913]

Great video. Yes keep up the good work. Stay safe and God's blessings

[@skytechbits]

You definitely know what you are doing for sure. That was never even a doubt. That plywood was a great idea for that application because of it being more flexible. I never thought about the generator would cause any carbon monoxide problem. I just think it's always a good idea to have a carbon monoxide alarm because that is an odorless gas. Now all you need back there is the rearview camera.

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks 👍

[@kele1264]

Bella Bella Bella 🤗💕

[@russellhancock9765]

I think it looks good White.

[@shelberwelber]

Very good video! You are really set up now.

[@aussiegoer]

It is looking great from downunder dave…👀😉👍🇦🇺🇦🇺

[@lavernbutler7291]

🙋🏼‍♀️🍑 Dave Glad to see you again. Bella doing good? Hello Bella! 🙋🏼‍♀️🍑 A/C looks good on your van. Bike too. Good job 👍🏼

[@heal-mobile]

I love this. You gained a new follower here. Im actually an above the knee amputee in the process of building my own van out right now. Since im a disabled veteran. It gives me the financial freedom to do the van life experience. Follow my journey if you want. Its gonna be fun

[@astrovantony9551]

Not your way my way lol

[@JayJayFromAZ]

You probably need to get a screen for those fins on the back. Since they are so fragile and you park you van in public areas.

[@susanjack4099]

Looks like your Co Pilot is ready to go. Your Van is coming along nice, bet you are feeling like Bella ready to get on the road.

[@debra-vs]

Dave, one of my mottos is "Better safe than sorry," so I agree with the braces on the bottom of the a/c and on the back rack. Definitely, over-engineering is smart. "Do it right the 1st time" is another of my mottos.😊 I agree with your choice of black for the a/c area. I also like the white vent cover on the top of the van.

[@carlh-thehermitwithwi-fi679]

nice dave!!

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks!

[@cheeseburgers82]

On this particular window you have to take a knife and stick it between the black gasket and cut the glue all way around it remove each bolt and cut glue also around bolts well on mine I had glue holding on the window as well idk if all vans have that glue but mine did

[@jaysonschor]

I love your decal on the van but it's driving me crazy remembering where I've seen it before. 😆

[@crazgirl80]

Fabolous, you getting it done . Bella likes to ride .

[@cmanofthewoodscentralus3217]

Idea> Might get some reflective tape and put on you carry rack but not sure about reflectors on side. Thanks for sharing your video with us. Stay Safe.

[@chiliman321]

came out great boss!!

[@DavesRVLife]

Thanks!!

[@RLBS61]

Bella is sitting on ready.

[@Tony13754]

I missed it. QUESTION: What happened to the other Portable AC unit you had ? NO GOOD? Because I was going to buy that same unit. Now a Window unit?

[@tradmanmike3360]

EXCELLENT VIDEO IDEA! NEW SUB. ALWAYS THUMBS UP FROM THE 641...

[@tonymeier5478]

Nice job

[@franceinegelven677]

Good idea. Looks good. Black good

[@richarddeich164]

You need to cover the slide hole where the window adaptors slide in. They are connected to the out side.

[@ceeceety2320]

I just bought the same kind of air conditioner for my van and I like your ideas. I'm gonna be running mine off of solar. I think the extra brace sure couldn't hurt. My wife is a bit upset with me because she wanted the kind that will fit under the solar. I think she'll be just fine when she's nice and cool at night when she's sleeping in the cool air.

[@fatboy54100]

Nice job only thing you might think about adding with some grilled work protect the condenser coil fins, you could frame it with angle iron or Square tubing and then run your bars across keep your condensing fins From getting smashed down

[@russellhancock9765]

If it was a great big air conditioner I might worry about it, but it is probably light enough not to worry about it.

[@oversizedshipping]

Man nice video I have been considering a portable ac for my van but I already have a 5,000 btu window unit I found on the side of the road that works great. I am going to go this route its perfect for my floorplan as I have a rear Hvac unit in the same corner you mounted your ac so its dead space anyway for me. Also seems very east to run a drop cord inside the door and plug this baby in.

[@jimsowder446]

Very nice job on the air conditioner. I certainly agree with you on the black!

[@mark1482]

I have a very similar design, I am going to make some covers for those top vents as I think that will be a problem with junk getting down in the unit, I believe the side vents will give plenty of air flow, years ago these units were solid on the top.

[@bigtomsvan4817]

Okay...so I also have a Ford E250 is mine and I am going to use your install plan. The portable a/c just doesn't work out good. Thanks 😊 and make it Black and White 1Adam12 over. Thanks man. I subbed

[@markattardo]

If 3/8 was too thin, you could laminate 2 or more pieces together to double or triple the thickness after bending😉 Don't think you need it for the AC. Carbon detector seems like a very good idea for any camper.

[@truckcampinglife]

I just seen your surprise for Bella!

[@larryvisco9674]

Only one question where is the water drainage to flow out of the AC ?

[@virtue_signal_]

It has a small Port that allows water to spill out or it just spills out over the bottom edge as long as it's tilted it's no problem.

[@jamesjackson7752]

Fix the driver seat.😎😀👍

[@carolstockman7788]

I want to meet you, Dave.

[@LOCDLIFE]

My a/c is setup the same way but I tilted so it drains to the rear bottom of the cooler outdide. At first I didn't tilt it and it drained inside of my van.😞 so I had to fix it correctly. Put brackets and a small piece of wood beneath it to maintain the tilted angle of the a/c. I intalled naamco plugs one on each side of my van to hook up at camping sites or family members & friends homes. Then I can run a strip plug inside for various gadgets or ceramic heater. I have a 1992 GMC VANDURA CONVERSION VAN.👍

[@danielparker1808]

On the window by your air conditioner put logo saying Dave's RV life .or put Dave and Bella RV life.

[@DavesRVLife]

Nope! lol. I'm not going to advertise with this vehicle.