Road Trip Van Conversion - Assessing The Task

in #blog6 years ago

So, down to business and the conversion into a Mobile Investigation Vehicle (MIV) / Bug Out Vehicle (BOV) begins.
I take a breath, take in the scope of the task ahead and crack-on with the task at hand.. Evaluation of the floor, integrity of the metal and junk that has been left behind takes all day.

Poor Van!

Reflections on it's former 2 lives (owners) indicate the abuse that it's taken, but i was sure that so long as the super structure/chassis was in good condition, i would resurrect it into a new life. The Tyre looked pretty sorry for itself and the previous owner had left 'stuff' still inside it (Rubble Sack - Strops - Old Gloves - Old Screws ) UGHH!

Preppers Survivalist Vehicle Mobile Investigation Vehicle Bug Out Van CONVERSION - INSIDE BACK.JPG
On the plus-side of things, the ceiling was actually still in a good condition!
MIV RELAY VAN CONVERSION CEILING AND WALLS.JPG
It was previously used as a Locksmiths Vehicle (on the plus side there were extra security measures added), then as a Painter/Builders Vehicle.
BOV VAN CONVERSION FLOOR.JPG
At some point the floor had a blue tin of paint spilt all over the floor. Troden in of course with the obligatory grease, oil and gravel!
INSIDE THE RIHS WALL VAN CONVERSION.JPG
The plywood walls would have to come off and the plastic wall trim was all cracked and smashed - OFF WITH THE LOT!
VAN CONVERSION DOOR.JPG
Not only was I disturbed at how people treat their own vehicles, but equally shocked at the amount abuse they can and will take.
VAN CONVERSION LHS WALL.JPG
On closer inspection, the actual paintwork underneath the grime and paint was still in good condition (less the minor dents and knocks). Exposed bare metal areas had not rusted. One of the reason I chose this particular vehicle was that the bodywork and chassis was constructed with galvanised steel.
VAN CONVERSION WHEEL ARCH.JPG
You've got to look ahead and see the potential! My vision extends far beyond this initial start-state. Wish Me Luck!
Vets new van.jpg

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The chassis sounds perfect for this and the floor is no big deal as you will be installing, I assume, insulation and then a floor on top anyway. I look at it in there and see a very workable shell. Not to much to uninstall like some other work vans filled with a steel cage and tons of installed shelves etc. This is quite the find!

Insulation, 12mm floor, carpet or lino, with maybe a stove at one end... shower, toilet, sink, kitchen and 6ft x 4ft 6 bed + dining area.... is the plan....

Yeah, you need a toilet of some kind for sure! I wouldn't want carpet. Lino is easier to clean-just sweep and/or wipe down. You'll be tracking in a lot from outside.

I think you will have your work cut out for you. A stainless steel chassis is great. I can see the potential plus all the hard work that it will take to put to rights. Good luck. I can't wait to see the end product!

On closer inspection, most of the work to be done looks cosmetic... A good Strip out and clean up should put it right.... I'll tackle all that this week.

Looks like this could an interesting project to follow.


Host of The Alternative Lifestyle Show on MSP Waves Radio.

Founder of the A Dollar A Day charitable giving project.


Thanks @pennsif - What could possibly go wrong lol.... Well.... I've been meaning to try this for a while, so it's now or never.

Looking forward to seeing how you set this up. I see how it could double as a MIV - nice and low key.

Yeah... im also going to get some magnetic 'security' / 'Ranger' signs to add another perspective of facade to the van too...

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