Simple Fold Down Van Table | Mitsubishi Express DIY Van Conversion part 12

[@brendanhoffmann8402]

I just bought a van last week. Yesterday I got some 50cm folding shelf brackets and now have a 50cm x 120cm table attached to the cage at the front of the van (sitting above the lone back seat). Will be ace for everything I need!

[@MarkMayhew]

I have a board sitting with boxes on either end as my desk….It’s been working but this video might inspire me to do this!

[@241snitch]

You could use some clear hose/tube over the chain to eliminate rattling whilst driving...

[@lachiemac2642]

A very solid idea my friend. I found that when closing the table with the chains tucked between the table and the body of the van, it held the chain tight enough to eliminate rattle. However if it was an issue this is a great solution✌🏼

[@weekendatbernies5274]

Love your work. Can't wait to see the fancy wood you choose.

[@lachiemac2642]

Thankyou kind sir😉✌🏼

[@jayfletch21]

Hey mate I’m looking into buying one of these vans and converting it into a camper also. I was just wondering if you could help me out by letting me know the interior dimensions of the van? Would be a big help (length just to back of the front seats tho) cheers🇦🇺

[@lachiemac2642]

Hey Jasmine, sorry for the late response. The easiest way to picture the back cab space in the Expresses, is that they're the size of a standard double bed mattress, plus 30cm in length. So if you put a double mattress in the back hard against the door, you'd have approximately a rulers length between the mattress and the back seats. I don't have my book on me at the moment but from memory it's about 140cm wide x 210cm length from chair to back door. They're quite a small and compact van, hence why I wouldn't recommend a fixed bed build, as you'll be left with little space to live in it. That's why I've opted for more of a couch that folds out into a full length bed. Hope this helps and best of luck on your van life journey✌🏼

[@jhrhiggi]

The ergonomics of your table height will be fine when your mattress is in

[@lachiemac2642]

Very true, I didn't think about it at the time of building the table, however happy accidents are always the best👌🏼

[@GutterClown]

I've got an SJ Express, running as Locksmith van. Have been thinking about adding an internal handle to the rear lift-up door. You figured out a solution to close/open that door from inside yet?

[@lachiemac2642]

Hey mate, a fantastic idea, my lazy ass just wrote it off as one of those little inconveniences to get used to. But after your message I think I might have a little play around with coming up with a mechanism. As far as closing, buying a handle of some sort and fixing directly into the metal ribbing below the window would probably work. I'll have to do a bit more research on Installing a trigger to open the door though. You've inspired me, I'll have a bit of a think and release a video if I get around to making something👌🏼

[@GutterClown]

@@lachiemac2642 I'm considering a Bicycle brake handle and cable, so I can route it around to my internal pull handle. If I use a round pipe handle, like a Stainless Boating handle, the bike cable lever will secure directly to it. More as I develop (over months)

[@judoman09]

@@GutterClown @McTrowsers did you figure out an internal door opening fix?

[@judoman09]

@@lachiemac2642 did you figure out an internal door opening fix?

[@GutterClown]

@@judoman09 I haven't as of yet. I haven't had a chance, to be honest. If you get up in there and do find a solution, let us know?