The BEST Step Van Camper Build EVER - Vintage Grumman Bread Truck Conversion

This is a great example of what I believe to be the very best step van camper conversion ever. Not only because it is an excellent RV, it’s a totally awesome vehicle and restoration. I consider this a true masterpiece and the design on the inside is a mix of vintage woodworking techniques, materials, craftsmanship and textiles. Behind the scenes is modern day technology to make the van more comfortable.
In today’s video we welcome Hunter with Green Valley Vans back in the channel with his AMAZING Vintage Grumman Kurbside Step Van Bread Truck Camper Conversion - With 7.3L POWERSTROKE V8 Diesel engine. He rebuilt this as a gram up restoration and it features a full camper conversion. There is a rooftop full of solar, rear hydraulic lift patio, sleeping for up to 3, center galley kitchen and a shower with Porta potty.
#vanbuild
#vanlife
#campervan
About New Jersey Outdoor Adventures -
New Jersey Outdoor Adventures KZbin channel is about vanlife , camper vans, Van builders, DIY conversions and RV walk through tours in and around New Jersey.
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[@cmaranatha9890]

He is not only extraordinarily talented, but he is an articulate speaker. He doesn't use unnecessary words and doesn't use phrases that negate his descriptions ("this is kind of a ..." or "I sort of made ....")

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Yes, no filler words

[@NoteFromSELF]

Yeah. Those phrases come from people unsure of themselves.

[@tincansailor9437]

This is one amazingly talented dude! Mechanic, woodworker, upholsterer, interior designer... Humble Road better take note!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thanks!

[@eveadame1059]

Definitely 💯 He is an Amazingly Talented Young Man 👍

[@ScottyBennitone]

This dude crushed it.. Definitely top 10 for builds youve showcased on your channel.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Awesome Jimmy. More to come

[@garymoffat591]

What a Renaissance Man! He does it all, including making me feel totally inadequate! What a magnificent project that is truly the pinnacle of what NJO has showcased. I’d be curious to know what the actual build cost is, excluding labor, of course.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you Gary, not sure the cost but it’s been a true labor of love

[@esperago]

Yes, this guy has the type of skills I wish my boomer parents would have helped me cultivate as a youth. Everything is such high quality. Bravo. That being said, it is quite a peculiar build. It seems like a custom build based off his exact needs, interests and hobbies at that particular point in his life (which is just fine). It did have me thinking about how a girlfriend would probably hate that thing. The van is functional, solid, reliable and has a million spots for storage and securing larger items. However, it's all hard edges, industrial, wood and metal. It's the opposite of cozy. A woman would hate it. A women and kids? Fuggetta bout it. Even right down to the big, loud mudded-out dualies. The layout is definitely utilitarian. It seems only adequate as a refuge to ride out a rainstorm, read a book, watch a movie, eat a nice supper or snuggle. It's basically one large hallway with a ten foot bench. It seems exactly like a place designed for a dude who spends 110% of his time outside, on a mountain bike. Again, which is fine for what it is. Even excellent for what it is but what it is is definitely niche. It's not really a criticism, more of an observation. If my bud pulled up in this at a campsite, all us dudes would be impressed. Jealous. All our wives and girlfriends would be like "Eww, no thanks." My only real criticism is that shower. That whole system and setup seems like it was designed by a young man who has little experience with mold and water damage. The hidden pan is seemingly cool but that water is going to go everywhere and get into everything. In such a small confined space, it'll take eons to dry and create nothing but headaches and deteriorated air quality thanks to must and mold. If we revisited this build in a few years, I'd bet money that the shower will be renovated into a traditional surround with a glass locking door.

[@malindafoster5719]

What a cool van! The craftsmanship is out of this world! What a talented gentleman. This is truly a one of a kind build and definitely a labor of love. The dog's real cute too.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Happy you enjoyed it

[@roblavelle4089]

AMAZING !!!!

[@suzannecranford6819]

I'm going to say this build stands alone as the very best! It's incredible! Thank you, so much, for this special tour! 💗

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you so much!!

[@MobileDwellings]

This woodworking is absolutely insane!

[@MyraFlores]

He thought of everything. It’s a beautiful craftsmanship he added vents for heat. He is an amazing builder! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Absolutely!!

[@cyndeeh]

FINALLY! A ONE-OF-A-KIND BUILD! ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! MY LORD, the attention to detail! Wow!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thanks!

[@cheryltaylortaylor]

This guy is super talented!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Always super impressed

[@DaveM-FFB]

This expert craftsman is also an incredible artist. This van is immaculate and should probably be in the Smithsonian one day. I can only imagine my van's full potential in the hands of this amazing builder. Thanks for the video. This video would make an excellent PBS segment titled "Incredible Vans".

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Couldn't agree more!

[@mjremy2605]

Wow, what a treat to see this vintage van come back to life. I love the style it has. The shiny, riveted look, like an Airstream, is so appealing. The mahogany paneling and cabinets are beautiful. Very nice yacht interior look. Floor too. The little bow ties, great! Nice design for the beds, so now you can sleep 2 very comfortably or even 4 in a crisis. The kitchen galley looks so elegant with that striped wood block and copper sink, great craftsmanship! I would add a bug cover to that nice winch, or it will get dusty and sticky in front. Thanks for a great tour, this was a very unique build and perfect for a traveler. Kudos on the enormous amount of work it took to restore it to this perfection inside and out. All that engine, brake, window, grille work. Very well done.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for the feedback

[@karl28560]

This man is a true craftsman! He knows everything about everything. Fabrication, automotive, automotive design, carpentry, electronics, plumbing, solar!😊😊😊😊😊

[@johntatman9168]

What a true craftsman and what an amazing build.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Always impressed with Hunters creations

[@susans8539]

Insane! Love this campervan-super unique. Thanks again for taking us along.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Our pleasure!

[@Kimberley_Black_White_TV]

I love when someone really gets into their van build, and get all creative and artistic and shit. I mean stuff.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Me too

[@patriciamuskevitsch8359]

One heck of a van and one meticulous builder who is a true artist.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I agree ☝️

[@raysha9932]

Beautiful I have no words it’s just amazingly done 😅 I can’t imagine how much green was put into it lol 😂

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Lots of green and time. Appreciate the support

[@tracym2164]

Wow, just wow! Such beautiful woodworking/craftmanship! One of the best builds I've seen. Hunter certainly is a champion of the van build world.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thank you!

[@Mr.Grumbdy]

This is some of the finest craftsmanship on a custom van . Top shelf stuff . It is a mini fivestar hotel room on wheels . This is an extremely classy build .

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the support in the feedback

[@Chereese0808]

Wow he's one talented guy. This is a masterpiece one of a kind. He should be VERY proud of himself. It's just amazing.

[@lindabishop7656]

Patrick, you find the absolutely coolest 😎 people with the most marvelous vans. Beautiful rig. I think I would probably sleep on the back Murphy bed 🛌 😴 . I look forward to your next stunning find. Thank you. 😊

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thank you! Appreciate the support

[@lizzym9029]

That wood is absolutely beautiful!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I think so too!

[@robbieward7026]

Talk about a labor of love, that truck is stunning! Give this man an applause.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the support

[@joenovak9366]

Just two years??? What an amazing build; You ROCK man!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

He is a machine

[@280zone]

You can't stop a man with a vision, Well executed!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

So awesome

[@handheadman]

Wow! What a gorgeous build. The fit and finish, from the exterior restoration to the interior furnishings and utility systems, is incredible.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thank you!

[@mikhailfong6234]

This dude is one heck of an engineer, craftsman, designer, and a meticulous patient man. Creation is so unique and retro. One of a kind. I am lost for words. Beats all the sprinters, transits and promaster campervans. The woodwork is so beautiful and smooth. Form and function dance together nicely. What a great balance. Wow. Wow. Wow!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Happy you found this one

[@sjladuke75]

Just getting around to checking out my "watch later" videos. This build is absolutely stunning. From the overall design to the impressive metal work, carpentry, upholstery, electrical/lighting work, the craftsmanship is truly magnificent. It's incredibly rare to find one person with this level of expertise, talent & creativity. As so many others have stated this van build deserves every accolade given. Thanks for sharing this phenomenal van.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I appreciate you checking back.

[@knotjusthooked]

WOW I have no words that can explain how amazingly beautiful this van is inside and out!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Right?!

[@livingworkingoutsidebox]

Well done.👍

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks 👍

[@jamietetrault4517]

He could be the smartest man on the planet!! Im in awe...the craftsmanship and knowledge is beyond comprehension...

[@robbieadams6412]

Now this is a guy you just want to have a drink with so you can hear all his wild ideas for future projects. What a beautiful job.....wow.

[@277kne]

Patrick this van is beyond words to describe how excellent the craftsmanship is. Hunter built a camper van from scratch. Just using a shell of a van. When I'm ready to have a van built I'll have to see Hunter.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I am so happy to have Hunter back on the channel. Looking forward to his next projects

[@shiralleehaggart72]

You have done well with this lovely van to get it from being a total wreck into a comfortably living space. You are a very talented person and the work you have put into this van and the material you have used now makes this van a very comfortable home. This is one of the best van builds I have ever seen. Enjoy your travels with your beautiful dog as well.

[@RadioChief52]

Holy Smokes what a build! What attention to detail!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the support

[@gt_n1722]

This guy's creativity is on another level

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Super impressed

[@Shoebutie]

That is a cool build. Love the stitching on that sofa and the flush shower. Awesome looking mahogany. Not sure I understand the rear deck but looks like a good spot for a chair and adult beverage. Good stuff.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Glad you enjoyed the build

[@lbl9066]

The deck could be when he goes to the beach, open up and watch the sunrise, sunset. The beach hasto be cooler than this hot valley

[@fallbrkgrl]

This is the coolest van I have ever seen. He does amazing work, and seems so talented. Not sure if I've seen any of his other builds, but I'm sure they are beautiful, quality, and efficient as for as space planning. ❤️🌵☀️⛈️🌈☮️🐎

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thanks!

[@turbogrin]

This young man is both a chraftsman and a very creative genious!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Absolutely

[@willberk2920]

This guy is the real deal. What a build!!!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Absolutely

[@p1zd3c]

This is some top tier, galaxy brain work . The thoughtfulness, craftsmanship and planning put into this is exceptional. From the minute accent details to the plumbing and other layouts, to the very wise use of marine grade materials everywhere he could, this is one of the best van builds I've ever seen. I grew up on an island on the coast of Maine surrounded by Renaissance men like this, and most of the time when I see the type of build, it's a boat. It's so refreshing to see this type of build get this type of craftsmanship. Protip: If you are looking to hire someone to do this type of build for you, look in areas with proper wooden boat construction facilities that are in populations steeped in car culture.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the support and feedback

[@AnAussieinAmerica]

Such an incredible build. Thanks for showing us Patrick.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

My pleasure!

[@davidhillman3410]

His work and engineering is second to none! Wow!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you 🙏

[@NoteFromSELF]

Impressive rig. The sweet dog is just so content to be included. He's like, "I'm in!" 💙

[@closer2theheart684]

What makes this even more impressive is that he did all the work, from building the frame and all the other mechanics, and then to the interior, woodwork, etc. What an amazing build.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

So much detail

[@ASLLOVE]

How fabulous is this build?! Every aspect of this van was rebuilt and updated. Clearly Hunter is extremely talented.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Hunter rocks

[@MaureenTheTemp]

This is beautiful and clever - I love love love the split Murphy bed. Can't believe he was able to turn that old, wrecked, abandoned step truck ito thus palace!!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the support

[@RaraAvis1138]

I want to know what it's like to be so high functioning. My body and brain are broken and I'm in awe of this young man's talent and ability. A++!!!❤

[@brentwalden6215]

This rig is insane! BEAUTIFUL!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

It really is!

[@jaypadulchick1355]

Absolutely Gorgeous!! I'm astonished with the electronic water valves!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

You and me both!

[@SunFlower-fy5xm]

Amazing build! Who needs a brick & mortar, when u have this!!!! I like it!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Absolutely

[@steverandall5814]

I can't even begin to imagine how many hours of research, planning and work this man put into this conversion! This man is a mix of artist, engineer and craftsman! What a skill set! Wouldn't you love to have someone like this on your payroll?

[@Bernz66]

This guy did an amazing job….. what an awesome build.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

We agree!

[@florasonners1635]

The mahogany, diamond stitching, split murphy bed not to mention the outside work gives this creation a royal feel to it. Enjoy it!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Oh thank you!

[@mercedes01100]

I am speechless. what a wonderful restoration inside and out. WOW

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you very much!

[@sandrahartje9974]

I love the way Hunter does his videos. Straight to the point, extremely informational and helpful. He is a marvel.❤😊tyvm

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Love watching him

[@bradmaher6119]

Camper van guy: “dog you wanna go outside?” Dog: “No”

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Dog loves the van

[@MK31MEDIA]

I'm gonna need a crane to pick my jaw off the floor! This build is beyond Brilliant in every sense of the word. It is THE Magnum Opus of van builds!

[@grumpyiwegianpodcast3505]

Hands down the best you have ever shown Patrick

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Oh wow 🤩 super

[@amiralions2681]

WOW, just when I think this channel can't get better. Patrick finds a Van Warlock named Hunter. Now I'm starting to believe you can turn a pumpkin into a bejeweled carriage and mice into white horses. This build is stunning!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thanks!

[@lorifrier8921]

WOW doesn’t even begin to express 😮

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Yes 🙌

[@nomad9935]

What a beautiful piece of mechanical art.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I’m so happy you found this video

[@joshthemediocre7824]

My uncle has one of these sitting in his driveway that he would probably happily get rid of if you ever wanted to do another. This is fantastic.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Could be an option

[@appleproductsvendor]

I will give anything to have this… this is by far the best for me!!!❤

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I’m in line too

[@lynsweeney7257]

Incredible craftsmanship and ingenuity. A piece of Art.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you 🙏

[@missychan63]

The word cute probably isn't what he was going for but I have to be honest.... This is the cutest thing I've ever seen!😂❤❤❤❤ Then, you go inside... And it's absolutely beautiful. Cute doesn't work for the interior- this is gorgeous and the attention to detail is amazing.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks 😅

[@murdiesel]

Love it! There is never a point where someone would say or think "Well I would have done it this way", lol! Outstand build!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Waiting for it…

[@geraldmerkel7145]

Yo Patrick, I still believe you did an amazing restoration on your Airstream. Quality work, quality project, quality build. Hunter is a Van Wizard. Genius vision, genius talent to create the vision. Artistry in motion. This is the #1 van build in your catalog of videos to this date. ❤👍🇺🇸

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Much appreciated Gerald!

[@konacoffeehawaii7540]

I got only one word to say “AWESOME “ 👏👏😎

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the support

[@garysmart7132]

😮 no question for me this is one of the best self build vans i have ever seen , fantastic job .

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you Gary

[@philosoraptor777]

Best van I have ever seen, bar none.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the support

[@lukehorning3404]

He thought of everything and did an amazing job

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate it

[@aprilMichelleXJRL]

Ok this is the most epic build yet hands down. Im obsessed with everything including the chrome color of the van. So wild.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Happy you enjoyed the build and the tour

[@javierrodriguez2863]

The double roof top is nice, the solar panels serve well on keeping the actual roof cooler, very cool build.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Appreciate the feedback. Thanks.

[@dancurrier374]

Certainly beyond my skill level and probably most other people as well! This young man is in a league most haven’t experienced yet, I know I haven’t. Excellent work is the least we could say and certainly artistic genius wouldn’t sound out of place here. It’s amazing the talent God has given to select individuals through out human existence.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Couldn't agree more!

[@donnakrauss94]

He’s the Houdini of van builds. Really nice job.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Sure is!

[@tynitahaines4012]

OMG...he did such a beautiful job on this.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you

[@cotsgpastor]

Excellent craftsmanship. Love his well thought out design!!! Great deck too!!!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you kindly!

[@the_katman2181]

All that mahogany looks great. Specially upfront. Beautiful van.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

We agree!

[@hammer48ful]

When I was a kid I used to see a lot of bread vans on the beach, but nothing as nice as this.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Love this build

[@jeeperzcreeperzz]

The fact that its a dually makes it even better

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I agree. 4x4 next?

[@dbglodowski]

This is wild. Frame and everything.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

One of my favorite

[@SeabornNomad]

Your utility systems, layout, space use, materials, everything is flawless. No effort was spared. I love your water system.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thank you so much!

[@tamsolo1584]

That man's hair and beard are absolutely glorious!

[@Julie-gc3mk]

Woodwork is amazing! Love it all. Thanks for showing us.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

My top favorite

[@richardfettig5974]

take it from a master craftsman ....thi is done right and looks killer, WoW !!!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Happy to know that

[@Raven1180]

Impressive...most impressive. Wow! The second bed setup blew me away

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Pretty cool

[@danniedamour4397]

Now that’s a build ! Sweet ! 💕

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

We thanks 🙏

[@TrinkaPolite]

He was READY for this tour 😊 that twin Murphy bed tho😮❤❤

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Pretty cool

[@lbl9066]

I agree w everyone.. the best van conversion . A lot of storage space. Solar the best ever. Some things over my head. Very clean looking, not messy.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Super sweet

[@alexaapoe]

Speechless!!! Beautiful, and the dog 🐕 is cute, too!

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks Alaxa

[@kathyfann]

Nothing short of amazing absolutely best job I’ve ever seen. I love the marine grade this that and the other Excellant. I super appreciate getting to view your work and see this beautiful van.

[@sergiocampbell]

This guy is too good ! No way i can build that one in my lifetime.

[@slporter]

If there were awards for oldest most busted frame into most amazing rig, this wins. 100%. 🏆 I've never seen a transformation as great or as beautiful.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Wow, thanks!

[@CloneRanger]

Bro, the dude's got major league skills....I am impressed 🤜🤛

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Absolutely

[@upaiaq]

What a thoughtful build. Functional art.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

I agree ☝️

[@TVCAVEMAN213]

Crushed it into dust, What an extraordinary job

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Thanks for the feedback

[@cjdunne1713]

This man is a genius! Talk about a quality well thought out build’

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Awesome

[@stephendickinson9929]

All the wood is gorgeous.

[@NewJerseyOutdoorAdventures]

Love it

[@jimmyburrous-ji7zy]

Love the van n the puppy but do love the Rasputin look you got .