VanBuild GARAGE BASICS | Rivnut Tool and Kreg Jig

[@Bum_Hip]

I could sit and watch you build a van all day. Seriously, I just binged all of your videos. You’re killing it girl. 👍

[@Linneaandakela]

Wow, thank you so much!

[@nicovanzyl1979]

Nico❣️

[@yodamaster202]

Well...I was going to sleep at 10:00 in the evening and next I realized that time was like at 03:00 in the night. So I have watched more than one video...Thank God it was christmas eve so there was no work the next day.

[@4evaMrsBrentWeston1]

Ditto... Linnea is an inspiration for this nearly 50 year old widow in Australia to do her thing with a van and vlogging it... thanks Linnea

[@brendacalderon9445]

​@@yodamaster202 I'm 2 years late Binge watching. Her step by step are not like any other van life videos. Very nice. I too started at 1130 pm and its now 3 am. I'm so addicted👏💗

[@007nadineL]

Great free video. Thank you. 😉😂😉😉😄😂😉😄😋😉😄😋😙😄😋😙😄😙😋😄😋😙😄😋😙😄😙😋😄😉😂😃😃😉😁😉😃😁😁😃😉😉😃😁😉😃😂😉😂😃😉😋😃😙😎😎😎

[@shannonyoung4042]

It's so helpful that you keep your mistakes in here. Love your videos.

[@katieh3236]

Dude its like watching myself! Awesome im not alone

[@ItsAriB90]

I just want to say THANK YOU! I’m in the process of converting my van right now and you’ve been such a big help! Every time I think I can’t or feel lost I go to your videos for guidance. Due to health problems I am unable to convert it alone though. However, it’s great to see your process & know it can be done! Thank you!

[@josephjuno9555]

EVERYTHING TAKES LONGER THAN YOU THINK IT WILL!! So True! How does this take so Long? My entire van build! You are better at this than me!

[@janetkoball44]

Great job. You are not afraid of trial and error. But your errors are very few. That stain us a pretty color. Thanks from Central Oklahoma

[@kangacrew540]

Foam in ribs is over kill. Cell foil is enough. At least no creepy crawlies can take van residence Great video young lady.

[@randall6890]

Hi Linnea, I’m just starting my van life. Your videos have given me many ideas in my own build. ❤

[@Linneaandakela]

Aw I'm so glad!! Good luck with your build!

[@randall6890]

@@Linneaandakela Thanks Linnea!

[@jamesmason7124]

A great start for your van build and a even better attitude, I wish more people were like you. Keep up the good work and stay safe and God bless you and America 🇺🇸

[@jasonlavere5071]

Really impressed with your ability to research and make decisions. I work as an engineer at NASA and there's a lot of people who could learn a lot from watching your videos. I'm enjoying watching your build videos and watching your growth. Definitely learning a lot and getting a lot of value!

[@bluejeans8001]

Kudos for having the courage to jump into this project with such a “I can do this” attitude. My wife and I built two houses on our own so we could afford the quality of homes we wanted. You go!!!

[@drharris156]

You are my hero. I am so proud of your experience your ambition & nerve to take on this project. I have cried too but girl you keep me going. We can do this; NO!!! WE DOIN THIS🌺💞☺

[@judyong2251]

Thanks so much for showing the Rivnut tool. I was trying to work out the fixings in my van and I think that will be the perfect thing for me. I have been flagging with just the rust step on my 25 year old van, so finding your van build and adventures has really given me a boost. Its for my dog too, but she and I are older and I don't want it to take so long that I can't enjoy it with her. Think I will be re-watching all your tips to help speed the process along. Good job Linnea.

[@abit2556]

Wow, another super informative video. I wish I hadve found your channel weeks ago! You are helping so many people including me!!

[@simplyboppingK]

I doubt you will respond to this because of how old these videos are but I'm binging them right now. It makes me happy that you are REAL about what you are building .A lot of time from some of the van life community I feel like they are more obsessed with having the best things and not really researching but you're the opposite. I can tell that you care about making sure your van is built to the top quality as much as you can.

[@Linneaandakela]

I appreciate this so much!! Thank you for the kindness♥️

[@doubled3082]

A bonding Saturday night viewing for my wife and I. She was sucked in to watching these on the big screen. This is all good stuff. Well done badass!

[@johnbroystonjr23]

Hey Linnea & Akela!!! That's a great idea using the spray foam and especially around the wheel wells; never saw that before. Watching and seeing you tackle all those jobs during your build-out is going to give a LOT of people confidence that they can do it too.👍 As ALWAYS, another great job and Thank you for sharing. 😎

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@ictheworld8974]

Fellow solo female & dog duo.. currently working on my van build & your videos are great! Reminds me I CAN do it. You’re a bad ass

[@DarwinIThink]

I’m preparing to do my first van build...came across your videos and I want to say thanks! Watching all of your videos now and writing down lots of notes 🥰 I’ll be looking into the Rivnuts FOR SURE!!!

[@DarwinIThink]

Bought a rivnut kit today! 👏 Again, thanks.

[@patrickmullen5529]

Great... girl. You go girl

[@beeamerica5024]

Love your videos and you are so funny you remind me of my child be glad when you're finished so I can see more of your awesome dog😉😊👍🐝✌

[@clarencemainjk9231]

Love your supervisor!

[@rauldelvalle8739]

Great job 🎉

[@Q2bFF]

Tictok has brought me to so many good channels.

[@Victoria-C44]

Omg girl this work is going to pay off for sure!! I bet it’s going to look AMAZING when it’s done ✅

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!!

[@lilmissdaydreamer4741]

Another fabulous video! Thank you so much! Your videos are very informative.

[@boomerangfreak]

Just as a heads up for anyone interested but hexagonal rivnuts also exist. They should fit a lot better in the hex holes if you find the correct size. 😉

[@DevaultFamilyLiving]

Lol, I just commented on your bedframe vid about a "Rivnut" tool. Glad you found one.

[@tatapscott]

I recommend hinges on the tops of the wheel well boxes so you can store things in the voids

[@Itsthejourneynotthedestination]

I think I'm falling in love with you watching your vids, just captivating.

[@silindarobertson8366]

You so Inspired me to just frickin try

[@princesspamela1959]

Hello Love the vids! Your build has been so helpful! Thank you so much! I have my van and Im assembling my tools to start my build in the spring!

[@Linneaandakela]

That is amazing! I wish you the best of luck with your own build adventure :)

[@DeanDahl]

Stumbled onto you and your channel, as a vanlife vs. reality person. We really enjoy your videos, building from a perspective we can relate to. You and attitude makes me almost believe I could do it. Finally, just love how you crack yourself up along the way. Keep up the GREAT videos.

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you so much for this! (and yes you absolutely could do it) I appreciate you!

[@dfanman1]

You sure are doing your research and you came up with a lot of the same solutions to problems as I did, your doing solid work I like it! Can't wait for your next video!

[@Linneaandakela]

I am trying my best to make the smartest decisions, I am glad you found similar solutions! Thank you!

[@WayneMelton]

You make great videos. Loved your van buy video. It was very inspirational. I have watched 5 so far and cannot wait to see them all. You are doing great with your build.

[@laurennicole8822]

I found you today & I’ve watched every video up through this 1, & I gotta tell you, you are amazing & I am impressed! Not only are you killing each new challenge, but you’re also somehow managing to explain everything in a way that my brain understands! You got this! I’m so excited to watch your journey! 👏🏻💪🏻👍🏻

[@Linneaandakela]

Wow, thank you so much! Reading this completely warmed my heart!

[@laurennicole8822]

Linnea & Akela, hi! I hope you’re-doing well & thanks for writing back! Can’t wait for your next video! ✌🏻🤟🏻

[@Breanna7]

❤❤❤❤

[@MickMcMadder]

Just landed on your video during a research stint into riv-nuts. Gotta say your can-do approach towards these tasks should be an example to all women out there, who want to try their hand. And to the men too. None of us are born knowing how to do any of this, props to you for learning and sharing your progress, you are doing great. Subbed.

[@BigVanLittleAdventures]

Awesome I just bought both of those toys myself!

[@Andrew_YKTD]

Let’s hope she get 100k

[@Martin-xr1mo]

Good job on the wheel well and panels cause that van has a lot of Curves! Can’t wait for the next update!

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!

[@droomprinsesje1234]

Your video's are actually super helpful for those of us who are just starting our own build. Thank you :)

[@Linneaandakela]

Glad to hear it! You are welcome!

[@robertg3070]

You're doing a great job I love your videos

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you so much!

[@meka1369]

Thank you for keeping how to’s short and to the point!

[@averagenative]

Spray foam is always fun. I really wish I had insulated as thoroughly as your are

[@Linneaandakela]

It was such a mess! haha a part of me does with I had a bit extra Thinsulate to do another layer on the ceiling. What did you insulate with?

[@averagenative]

@@Linneaandakela foam board, used liquid nails to permanently adhere it and duct tape to keep it while it was curing. I dunno I'm rrrrrrreally considering completely dismantling my bus and redoing it

[@martykong3592]

Great stubbornness and drive! you GO! great video and thanks again for sharing, learning MUCH, and if I do get another van, it will definitely help. And YES you have a beautiful dog and companion! Take care and thanks again! Cheers! :)

[@just_jade9074]

Totally hooked on your van build right now. I'm in the process of picking which van I want and will be doing a solo build with no prior knowledge eeek. Super crazy but exciting!

[@javired1968]

Everything is looking good. Great job.👍🏻👊🏻

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!

[@kristintobin901]

My dad would so love you !

[@tradmanmike3360]

YOU DID A EXCELLENT JOB YOUNG LADY! BECAUSE SPACE/STORAGE IS SO LIMITED, I WOULD HAVE MAYBE LEFT THE TOP OF WHEEL WELL HINGED FOR SOME LIGHT STORAGE. ALSO PAINT LIGHT GRAY OR WHITE FOR VISIBLITY WHEN YOU BED COVERS IT ALL. OVERALL VERY IMPRESSIVE WORK. GOD BLESS FROM THE 641...

[@habibestyle7556]

Hi from Mexico :)

[@frenchfryfarmer436]

Those black bolts is a self tapping Torx driven deck bolt. SUPER handy. Can be used to attach deck boards to steel...especially thicker steel. First drill clearance hole just slightly smaller.....it'll tap 1/4 plate steel.

[@Maritime826]

taking notes! you're rad! thank you!

[@embodiself]

you are so inspiring

[@alexpolk1967]

I just started following BUT I find this very inspiring because I wasn’t to do the same thing :) I’m so glad I found your videos on TikTok 😊😊

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you girl!

[@alexpolk1967]

That meant to say that I want to do the same thing haha. And you’re welcome!

[@fishingdayzz]

I found you on tiktok and I did not think u were this awesome

[@johngrant1337]

I think you have a great idea, using the the Rivnut tool and the Krig Jig. The style of bolts you are using is great. I would use thread lock on the bolt and Rivnuts ( if you have some finger nail polish it will work for thread lock( use just a touch of the finger nail polish ( the best finger nail polish to use is the junky type, you know the crap somebody give you) I Love the stained wood.

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you so much! Using the fingernail polish is a great idea. And yes, I have been loving both of the tools, happy I made the time to learn them early on in this process. Love the feedback!

[@ryiater]

Was scouring KZbin for a video on how to attach a wheel well box to the subfloor :) this was great! Excited to see how the rest comes along.

[@Linneaandakela]

Oh perfect timing then! Thank you :)

[@ZekaUSA]

You do absolutely great! So i saw a few mistakes lol but it is good anyway! Just keep doing! You are awesome!

[@stevenpower8457]

You should set up a Patreon account. With as much work as you are putting into your videos (in addition the all the work that you are putting into the van), and as much enthusiasm as people watching and commenting have about your work; I'm confident that you would get a surprising amount of support to keep you producing such informative and entertaining videos. If you don't like this idea, that is fine, I imagine that Dodge or another company will be reaching out to you one of these days to sponsor your channel.

[@Linneaandakela]

Hi Steve, I just want to say thank you for all of your support and wonderful comments. You are great. As for the Patreon account - I am not super familiar with that, I will have to look into it! I am open to any ideas that help keep me creating and maintain this wonderful community :) Thank you!

[@Egginamagail]

I had a pet bird that left a big blob on my back just where yours was. 🦜💩

[@sharonreed5341]

Thank you, thank you 🙏🏻

[@sebastianisac3076]

Hello from Romania! I think it was better if you put hinges on the lids of the boxes, and in this way you could use them as additional storage space. you are doing a good job!

[@Linneaandakela]

Hello! Thank you for the suggestion! One of my boxes will have all of my solar attached and hold my battery on top, and the other will be the shelf for my paddle board. But in a different garage I think that would be a great idea!

[@MyAnim101]

Hey Linnea, Kate shared your Tik Tok and KZbin vids... What an AMAZING job you're doing! Your ability to teach as you learn is incredibly effective and really fun to watch. Can't wait to see the finished build!

[@Linneaandakela]

Hi Rick! Thank you so much. It has been quite the frustrating project at times, but also incredibly rewarding. I have loved using the rivnut tool - I am so grateful that you encouraged me to use it. And you are right, now I want to use it for everything! Thank you for reaching out! Hope you have been well!

[@MyAnim101]

​@@Linneaandakela Totally agree - both frustrating and rewarding, and also addictive! Really love seeing your build come to life. I sold my Transit last Monday so I'm having some withdrawals at the moment, but I'm already looking for another one - 4x4/AWD this time. Seeing you working on your van has motivated me. You're such a natural on-screen talent Linnea - you two are absolutely killing it!

[@Raynor88]

Nothing sexier then a woman that's not afraid to get her hands dirty. I've been binging all your videos in order and I love how you show the steps and I love the music.

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!

[@donatopontecorvo8861]

Sei bravissima

[@joreva2332]

Nice job. I am building my camper in a Ford 150. I am 3 years but I finished the body so far. But I will take your videos like advice to keep going. Good luck in your project.

[@Linneaandakela]

That is great, good luck on the rest of your project! I am glad I can help a bit during the process

[@joreva2332]

Linnea Schmelzer thank you

[@jennagresczyk9898]

I came from tictok but now I’m hooked good job 👏🏻

[@bethanypasquale4275]

YES! I am so glad I found your videos! I am doing the same build in Colorado but probably a little behind you. Great info on lights! I almost daisy chained my puck lighting until I saw your video! Thank you! Do you have an insta account? I'd love to be able to compare notes!

[@Linneaandakela]

I am so happy this was able to help you! I am also glad you didn't end up making the mistake I almost did, good luck with the rest of your build!

[@ThirstBomb]

This was awesome!

[@raybeattie5802]

You are one clever girl! Some blokes don’t know how to hold a screwdriver! Go girl!

[@tikomephiri4685]

Can't wait for the update!!❤️❤️😭

[@Linneaandakela]

Thanks, another one is coming soon!

[@markmurray1811]

keep it up! you are doing good! :)

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you, it has been so fun!

[@NapturallyDivine]

New subby here. Catching up on all your videos. Excited to see the outcome!

[@thelitfamily4608]

TikTok sent me

[@CRshorts18]

Same

[@leilaburgess8285]

Same

[@ronie1337]

Another option you could use are "JACK NUTS FOR SHEET METAL" 1/4-20 size... Love all your videos. Your doing a great job!!!

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you for the suggestion!

[@triciaheine9806]

You are awesome! Just bought a van I have no skills for doing a DIY , but the guy I’m waiting to help me that I hired isn’t avail yet so me and a friend are going to start the project anyway! Becuz you’ve inspired me!!! I’ve learned so much I can’t thank you enuf. I wanted to ask you what all the grey paint is on walls ceiling and floor of you van. Is that to keep scratches from rusting? Mind if you tell me what product you used? And if you start a patreon Acct it allows people to sign up for a few dollars a month to support you and your channel. I follow this great couple ONEADVANTURE at a time. They do how to videos and travel videos and I learned about the monthly money support option from them. You should! Your awesome!!!

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you so much! Congrats on your new van, this will be such an amazing journey for you! Yes, the grey paint was a part of my rust prevention process, you can view the entire video on my channel! Basically, since the van will always be exposed to moisture, I wanted to cover and protect any areas of metal that were showing. Thank you for the encouragement to do the Patreon account! I just learned about it and am considering it :) You rock!

[@regmountain2224]

There is high & low density foam. Low doesn't expand as much as High... Use caution, which you use where...

[@clgraham82]

Came across your videos while researching ideas on converting a cargo trailer into a camper. Your personality and willingness to try new things make watching you complete your build very entertaining! Is it safe to assume you have some prior experience using power tools...you seem pretty comfortable using most of them?

[@Linneaandakela]

Awesome! Thank you! I had used a drill in the past a few times, and I used a very old jigsaw to build a compost bin once... I was definitely a beginner when I started the build and would get VERY anxious about new or loud tools. But now I feel really confident and it is easier for me to jump right in :)

[@ivanmilos3121]

Go grl !

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!

[@topcheese2889]

Nice

[@Linneaandakela]

Thank you!

[@carolcrosby2177]

Did you consider reflextix in addition since you are in hot areas? I'm in GA and will put it in my ceiling attached to the ceiling with a radient barrier.

[@francescarroll3334]

Hey there, about to start build my second van, a promaster like yours. Them nuts are great!! So much better the drilling into the van itself.. So my question: how have the rivet nuts been holding up? Do they vibrate? Did you use them elsewhere in your van build? I’ve been researching “plus nuts”, but they seem to be $$ and only available to buy online.

[@ruthcoen5503]

🙌

[@Anna.Z.]

It seems like Akela is learning from her mommy of getting her own project successfully accomplished by bending her spine 90 degrees to get her ball 😂! Go go girls! x

[@jjimikohn4684]

May I recommend using screw glue and I prefer adhesive silicone (for other stuff) when constructing those boxes?

[@infinityring9190]

Great video! Did those rivet nuts ever loosen?

[@H2Dwoat]

Hi, spray foam is bloody awful stuff to work with 🤬, If only it wasn’t so darn useful 🤓. Whoever invented Rivnuts should be given a standing ovation, such a simple and elegant solution 👍.

[@Linneaandakela]

I agree with both of these statements!!

[@wayoftheroads]

Hey Linnea! Been binging these videos as we start our van build... just curious, were those 2x10's for the bed frame just temporary? Or did you put those back up on top of the panels you made in this video? Thanks for any info :) Cheers

[@regmountain2224]

Curious??? Why didn't you add 3M in wheel boxes???

[@ml_muzzyt]

What is your dog bread cuz I think of buying one they look nice and playful

[@josephjuno9555]

If u put hinges on wheelwell box tops u cud have Secret storage area? I hate to waste any space in such a small area?

[@SpikedVanlife]

I would of added little doors so you could stuff things inside the wheel well lol

[@billparry5738]

Hi there, Amazing and informative videos. Thanks to you my son and I are diving into our Promaster project this week. Quick question. In another video you had 2x10s supporting your bedframe. It looks like they are now supported by you garage walls and the supports in the side of the van. What made you decide to make the change?

[@katieh3236]

You should wear a mask using the foam because the VOCs csn sensitize you for life to the chemicals in it as its setting. But the mask has to be chemical cartridge filtration Your awesome !

[@unsoundminds2648]

Hinges on the top of your garage's would make for extra storage

[@Linneaandakela]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@lunaumbra5179]

Hihi. I've struggled with rivnuts in the past coming loose on me causing MAJOR headaches. Have your rivnuts held up? I think my issue was the rivet insert tool I purchased. Thanks for making your videos and any time you take to reply to lowly old me :)

[@gangsterboy1105]

I am new to this chanel

[@autumndavis4857]

Did Togo have heating and ac when you got him?

[@Linneaandakela]

Yes!! He did! And it works great - just normal ac and heat - not fancy van build ac and heat lol