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Subject Topic: Semi-self build newbie Post Reply Post New Topic
12/10/2015 at 6:28pm
 Location: Sandhurst
 Outfit: None Entered
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Afternoon all.

I am about to purchase a LWB AWD Sprinter with a view to turning it into a motorhome for family camping. I am not without some practical skills as I'm a bathroom fitter so I'll happily tackle most aspects of the build but the electrics seem a tad daunting.

I understand that I need leisure batteries, mains hook-up, inverter, converter and a Zig wotsit. I've watched a few youtube videos and tried to grasp what's required but have come to the conclusion that I'd prefer somebody else to do it before I start insulating or building anything.

Where I would very much appreciate some sage advice would be on sourcing somebody to do the work, I've actually asked the electrician who works for me but he is only a domestic fitter and not confident. Anyway, I'm based in Sandhurst, Berkshire and despite searching Google all weekend I can't seem to find anyone local.

There appears to be numerous reputable van conversion specialist in Sheffield, Milton Keynes, Devon and Bristol but alas . . . . . nothing close to me.

Can anybody please point me in the right direction, it would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

Admin: Apologies if this has been posted in the wrong section.   


12/10/2015 at 6:37pm
 Location: Shropshire
 Outfit: Toyota Granvia (Wellhouse)
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Hi..

Sorry, of no direct help but as well as asking on here, this website could prove useful to you:  http://sbmcc.co.uk/forum/

Good luck with it.



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12/10/2015 at 6:58pm
 Location: Sandhurst
 Outfit: None Entered
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That's very decent of you Pepe. Thank you


13/10/2015 at 9:15pm
 Location: Rushden Northants
 Outfit: Mercedes 614D Conversion
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+1 on the SBMCC

It costs £15 a year membership but priceless for the information and help you get.

I'm a member, I am converting a 614D Vario minibus.

Peter


14/10/2015 at 10:48am
 Location: Ndidis Kraal
 Outfit: Laika Ecovip 100 & Quasar
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Zigs may not be the best distribution panel to use. Have a look at the likes of Sterling or Victron (if you're feeling very wealthy )


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14/10/2015 at 5:53pm
 Location: Sandhurst
 Outfit: None Entered
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Thank you very much for the input.


I have joined the SMBCC.


As for feeling wealthy. . . . . . . . .how I feel and how it is are often two very different things.


14/10/2015 at 9:30pm
 Location: 
 Outfit: 
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Without the help and amazing timeless assistance of all the bods on the SBMCC my sefl build would have never have started and would never have finished!

The best £15 I have ever spent in my life.

-------------
There is a great World to be found out there, but by the very day, to find where it is becomes more of a challenge!


17/10/2015 at 4:57pm
 Location: Bristol
 Outfit: Homemade Van
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Hey gonzo

Im planning on doing the same this as you. i want to buy some sort of large van and convert it. i was the same as you i.e i came out of a job looking after children. but what i would recomend is just read and read and read because thats what i have done and i didnt know a thing about solar panels or any of that and now i feel pretty confident about it all. in no way am i saying im an expert because im not but i feel that i could do my wiring for my van just because ive learnt alot just by reading stuff everywhere.

dont really know if this webside helps you but it gives a basic diagram of how i think its supposed to be done and thats what i will be doing hopfully

http://www.solarpowersimulator.com/

and if anyones interested at looking at my progress go to

http://philjbaker22.wix.com/phillipontheroad


19/10/2015 at 12:40am
 Location: Sandhurst
 Outfit: None Entered
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Quote: Originally posted by phillipontheroad on 17/10/2015
Hey gonzo

Im planning on doing the same this as you. i want to buy some sort of large van and convert it. i was the same as you i.e i came out of a job looking after children. but what i would recomend is just read and read and read because thats what i have done and i didnt know a thing about solar panels or any of that and now i feel pretty confident about it all. in no way am i saying im an expert because im not but i feel that i could do my wiring for my van just because ive learnt alot just by reading stuff everywhere.

dont really know if this webside helps you but it gives a basic diagram of how i think its supposed to be done and thats what i will be doing hopfully

http://www.solarpowersimulator.com/

and if anyones interested at looking at my progress go to

http://philjbaker22.wix.com/phillipontheroad




Nice one Phill, thank you very much indeed. Stay in touch and let me know how you get on because I'd be very interested and will watch your blog.

I nearly purchased one this weekend but it had a crew cab and too many windows where I was looking to build a bunk.



23/10/2015 at 11:37am
 Location: Bristol
 Outfit: Homemade Van
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i will definatly keep in touch and same to you to your have to post some photos or something

-------------
if you wanna see my self build van project just head to my profile and go to my homepage to see my progress



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