Caravan design

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Di and I were discussing our next van, (go lotto!) and decided we wanted one nearly exactly the same as the Golf, just a bit(lot) newer and with an ensuite, (oh! and black and grey tanks)
so we have the 3 sided club lounge up the front, kitchen, then a proper room divider( technical term is "door"), the two bunks, another door then the ensuite.
sounds simple hey?
you go and find one...

please ignore the 22' thing, it was done on a house layout program and I couldnt figure out how to thin down the walls :p

[weeds]

There are companies that do one offs....but you pay for being a black sheep .

[Mick_Marsh]

Get an old van, gut it and build it.
I've seen a few threads on other fora about doing this.


You could also fly down to Sunbury one weekend on a fact finding mission.

[Pedro_The_Swift]

ok,, I'll bite,, caravans at sunbury?:angel:

[Mick_Marsh]

ok,, I'll bite,, caravans at sunbury?:angel:
Sigh...

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Mrs Pedro make the same noise--- :angel:

[Mick_Marsh]

Her5e's a hint:

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/trailers-vans-campers/214018-drop-axle-caravan.html

I think he'll swap it for Ian's bus.

[justinc]

Mrs Pedro make the same noise--- :angel:

And quite often I'd imagine. ..:wasntme:

😅

Jc

[DiscoMick]

I was watching the Tiny Homes show on TV last night and there were a lot of good ideas.
For example, if the bed is put on lifting struts it can be lifted to the ceiling when not needed, revealing living space underneath.
Or fit a Murphy bed which folds into the wall (Google Murphy bed).
Also the roof should be shaped to catch rainwater and channel it into tanks underneath.
The kitchen should slide away out of sight when not needed.
One day I'd like to design my perfect van and get it custom built. For now, we're slowly creating a studio apartment out of an enlarged garage at our Maleny place.

[Pedro_The_Swift]

The rainwater thing is good,, we usually filter all the water that goes into the tanks, but when you're desperate---:cool:
the rest is not really appropriate,, the van roof isnt high enough to allow that, and what happens to all the stuff we have stored under the beds:D

[austastar]

The rainwater thing is good,, we usually filter all the water that goes into the tanks,


Hi,
We used to catch the rain off the roof of our old truck in buckets. It always ran to one corner of the flat roof.
Decanting it into the water inlet avoided any residual crud.

Can't do it on the Innovan, every thing is curved.

Cheers

[Milton477]

I solved the problem by building my own. Didn't break the bank & we got exactly what we wanted.

[Homestar]

I solved the problem by building my own. Didn't break the bank & we got exactly what we wanted.

Well obviously we now need to know soooo much more about that. :)

Including many pictures. :)

[LandyAndy]

Single beds Pedro????
I really enjoy room,a single bed wouldn't work for me.Quite enjoy the space of the queen sized bed in the camper trailer.
Andrew

[Homestar]

I'd go single beds in our next van without hesitation. SWMBO and the Pugs take up around 70% of the bed in our van - I'd have heaps more room in a single bed.

[LandyAndy]

Deb has never slept in the camper trailer.I love my room!!!!
Andrew

[Pedro_The_Swift]

In a van where every square centimeter of storage space is allocated I cant understand island beds, and besides, when the whole world is your playground, why limit yourself to one piece of furniture ?:angel::p

[DiscoMick]

Yes, I think two singles designed so that one can either be slid under the other or pushed to the side and converted into a lounge is a good idea in a van.
I saw pictures of a European van with the roof shaped so the water ran to depressions on the sides and then through grates and down into the tank underneath. The taps then had filters.

[DoubleChevron]

There is quite a few manufacturers ( Jayco for sure ) that make nice ensiute bunks 'vans. BIG money and heavy though. They usually have a combo unit, not full ensuite due to space requirements. Those new caravans are just absolutely vomit inducing with all the hidious shiny white **** everywhere.... You feeling like gouging your eyes out just looking at them ( people really pay for something so hard on the eyes ?).

2015 REGENT WEEKENDER FAMILY 20'6 TRIPLE BUNK SEPARATE SHOWER TOILET CARAVAN (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/2015-REGENT-WEEKENDER-FAMILY-206-TRIPLE-BUNK-SEPARATE-SHOWER-TOILET-CARAVAN-/162380147647?hash=item25ce9c6bbf:g:Hj0AAOSwjDZYkpK C)

but here's the "usual" layout. To get an ensuite room as your thinking, the 'van is going to need to be 30foot long.

Have you looked at the expanda 'vans ?? They have ensuite, bunks, but the main bed expands out to provide enough space without being the size of a small city :)

Anything decent sells for HUGE money .... very quickly... Bunk caravans are just SO hard to find. If it has bunks and is in reasonable condition (almost regardless of age) it'll sell. This one popped up on the caravan facebook group yesterday.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/attachments/trailers-vans-campers/119313d1486273941-caravan-design-bunkvan.jpg

old, very, very nice condition... 3 bunks, no full adult bed ( it's a fold down from cupboard type bed), 3 bunks. Sold in 3hours after about 130 comments for $16,000 :o

There is just nothing out there most families can afford. There either absolute crap .... 10->$20,000 for something usable but old .... or $40+ for something new. What family can afford $40k+ for a caravan :wasntme:

Um ... In your planned caravan.... Do you sleep outside in the annex :p :p There is no bed there for the adults!

seeya
Shane L

[Homestar]

There is quite a few manufacturers ( Jayco for sure ) that make nice ensiute bunks 'vans. BIG money and heavy though. They usually have a combo unit, not full ensuite due to space requirements. Those new caravans are just absolutely vomit inducing with all the hidious shiny white **** everywhere.... You feeling like gouging your eyes out just looking at them ( people really pay for something so hard on the eyes ?).

2015 REGENT WEEKENDER FAMILY 20'6 TRIPLE BUNK SEPARATE SHOWER TOILET CARAVAN (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/2015-REGENT-WEEKENDER-FAMILY-206-TRIPLE-BUNK-SEPARATE-SHOWER-TOILET-CARAVAN-/162380147647?hash=item25ce9c6bbf:g:Hj0AAOSwjDZYkpK C)

but here's the "usual" layout. To get an ensuite room as your thinking, the 'van is going to need to be 30foot long.

Have you looked at the expanda 'vans ?? They have ensuite, bunks, but the main bed expands out to provide enough space without being the size of a small city :)

Anything decent sells for HUGE money .... very quickly... Bunk caravans are just SO hard to find. If it has bunks and is in reasonable condition (almost regardless of age) it'll sell. This one popped up on the caravan facebook group yesterday.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/attachments/trailers-vans-campers/119313d1486273941-caravan-design-bunkvan.jpg

old, very, very nice condition... 3 bunks, no full adult bed ( it's a fold down from cupboard type bed), 3 bunks. Sold in 3hours after about 130 comments for $16,000 :o

There is just nothing out there most families can afford. There either absolute crap .... 10->$20,000 for something usable but old .... or $40+ for something new. What family can afford $40k+ for a caravan :wasntme:

Um ... In your planned caravan.... Do you sleep outside in the annex :p :p There is no bed there for the adults!

seeya
Shane L

Ah Shane, one day you will know and enjoy the feeling of only needing a van for the 2 of you - it is a wonderful thing. :D

16 to 20' gives you all the space you need for 2 with room for an ensuite. :)

My 16' Frankin Arrow sees us right for up to about 2 weeks at a time - it's just a bit small on space for those things you may want on an extended trip but 20' or so twin axle and Imthink we could just about live in it.

If I was single, I'd be able to live in the Arrow for sure. :)

[Narangga]

In a van where every square centimeter of storage space is allocated I cant understand island beds, and besides, when the whole world is your playground, why limit yourself to one piece of furniture ?:angel::p

The reference to a 3 sided club lounge was noted. ;)

[Mick_Marsh]

Anything decent sells for HUGE money .... very quickly... Bunk caravans are just SO hard to find. If it has bunks and is in reasonable condition (almost regardless of age) it'll sell. This one popped up on the caravan facebook group yesterday.

old, very, very nice condition... 3 bunks, no full adult bed ( it's a fold down from cupboard type bed), 3 bunks. Sold in 3hours after about 130 comments for $16,000 :ono bed there for the adults!
Bunk caravans, hey........
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/561.jpg (http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/mick_marsh_AULRO/media/Viscount%20Caravan/DSC_4062.jpg.html)


Hey, Shane, were your ears burning today? We were talking about you.
Citroen related.

[DoubleChevron]

Ah Shane, one day you will know and enjoy the feeling of only needing a van for the 2 of you - it is a wonderful thing. :D

16 to 20' gives you all the space you need for 2 with room for an ensuite. :)

My 16' Frankin Arrow sees us right for up to about 2 weeks at a time - it's just a bit small on space for those things you may want on an extended trip but 20' or so twin axle and Imthink we could just about live in it.

If I was single, I'd be able to live in the Arrow for sure. :)

Oh, I thought he said he wanted bunks!

[DoubleChevron]

Bunk caravans, hey........
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/561.jpg (http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/mick_marsh_AULRO/media/Viscount%20Caravan/DSC_4062.jpg.html)


Hey, Shane, were your ears burning today? We were talking about you.
Citroen related.

You don't want Citroens ..... The damn things breed while your not looking :wasntme: And you'll find no car "right" again .. they'll all handle like crap ... or ride like merde etc.. :angel:

That's one nice looking bunk van! That layout usually had the pull out couch at the front that became a double bed.

[Mick_Marsh]

You don't want Citroens ..... The damn things breed while your not looking :wasntme: And you'll find no car "right" again .. they'll all handle like crap ... or ride like merde etc.. :angel:

That's one nice looking bunk van! That layout usually had the pull out couch at the front that became a double bed.
Not this one. The pull out couch is in the middle (where that mattress is) and in the end is a table that turns into a double bed. Eight berth this one.
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/584.jpg (http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/mick_marsh_AULRO/media/Viscount%20Caravan/DSC_4068.jpg.html)

[Homestar]

Oh, I thought he said he wanted bunks!

Unless he's not telling us something...:D

I assumed it is just Pedro and Mrs Pedro, and the vertically challenged one named Guinness.

[Milton477]

Well obviously we now need to know soooo much more about that. :)

Including many pictures. :)

Built from the ground up. Design was 'gathered' from many sources. Body is made of 35mm thick plastic composite called Monopan & all welded together using a hot air gun. Chassis is steel RHS 100x50x3 duragal. Air suspension.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/attachment.php?attachmentid=119317&stc=1&d=1486286886

[Milton477]

The other side:

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/attachment.php?attachmentid=119318&stc=1&d=1486287325

The full build is here: Forum | Caravan & Motorhome | RV Tips, Travel, Camping, Swap, Social Chat. - View topic - G'Day, I am in the throws of designing a semi off road van (http://www.candm.com.au/forum/viewtopic.php?f=48&t=15122)

[Tombie]

Nice buddy!

[rar110]

Bunk caravans, hey........
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/561.jpg (http://s1074.photobucket.com/user/mick_marsh_AULRO/media/Viscount%20Caravan/DSC_4062.jpg.html)


Hey, Shane, were your ears burning today? We were talking about you.
Citroen related.



That looks like what I need.

[Pedro_The_Swift]

This one sleeps 8,, and has room for toys,,
http://www.caravancampingsales.com.au/buy/new/OAG-AD-5459815/2015-Goldstar-RV-1800-Toyhauler/?cr=5&category=caravans&psq=%28%28%28%28%28LengthFeet%3Drange%5B18..22%5D% 26%28%28%28SiloType%3D%5BDealer%20New%5D%7CSiloTyp e%3D%5BDealer%20Used%5D%29%7CSiloType%3D%5BDealer% 20Near%20New%5D%29%7CSiloType%3D%5BPrivate%20Used% 5D%29%29%26IndustryAll%3Dkeyword%5Bbunk%20beds%5D% 29%26%28Category%3DCaravans%26SubCategory%3DCarava n%29%29%26Service%3D%5BCaravancampingsales%5D%29%2 6SaleStatus%3D%5BFor%20Sale%5D%29&pso=0&pss=Premium

[DoubleChevron]

That looks like what I need.

Sorry Pedro ... It looks like I've hijacked your thread by mentioning bunk 'vans .... :wasntme:

Join the facebook groups ( caravan buy swap sell ) if your looking for a bunk 'van. Finding one like that one pictured can be done .... It took me a couple of years of searching to find this one.... The good ones on the groups sell site unseen within a few hours for top $$$ if they look decent in the piccies.

I spotted this one at a dealer advertised on ebay .... Took a sickie from work and drove straight down the following day and gave him a deposit. Then when I tried to sell the little Chesney caravan I had, everyone that came to look at it wanted to buy/look inside the bunk 'van I'd found.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/535.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/536.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/537.jpg

If I was to sell this ( not a hope in hell until the kids have grown up)... I'd probably start at about $20,000 .... Insane, ridiculous money for a 30+year old caravan. But buying new is $50,000+... It's crazy, how can families afford this sort of money for holidays (plus the $80+ a night for a patch of dead grass to park your caravan on).

seeya,
Shane L.

[The ho har's]

We are in the throws of rebuilding our 1970 Millard. Similar design to yours pedro though we have a L shaped kitchen and seating beside with a loose table. We have looked at hundreds of vans for ideas and there are none out there with single bunks and rear on-suite.

Mrs hh:angel:

[DoubleChevron]

Di and I were discussing our next van, (go lotto!) and decided we wanted one nearly exactly the same as the Golf, just a bit(lot) newer and with an ensuite, (oh! and black and grey tanks)
so we have the 3 sided club lounge up the front, kitchen, then a proper room divider( technical term is "door"), the two bunks, another door then the ensuite.
sounds simple hey?
you go and find one...

please ignore the 22' thing, it was done on a house layout program and I couldnt figure out how to thin down the walls :p


Have a look at the pommy 'vans....

Caravans, Bailey Ranger 470/4 | eBay (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Caravans-Bailey-Ranger-470-4-/182422331491?hash=item2a7937e063:g:nzQAAOSwa~BYcbn r)

they often have full sized beds/couches out the front. If you don't like the twin single design, you can fill the gap between them and have a bigger than king sized bed. If you make the twin singles up into beds (rather than use them as big long couches) you can still sit at the dinette. The dinete also folds up into bunks for children.

There is almost always an ensuite across the back (or combo ****ter/shower) if it's a really small 'van.

The pommy 'vans really are a cut above the aussie layouts.

seeya,
Shane L.

[nismine01]

I drew up my plans for a caravan on a spreadsheet, Open Office, where you can size the columns and rows making them percentages of what you want ie; every 10cm or foot. Then I marked the length & width I wanted and put lines down then configured the lines to the width and colour to represent what I wanted.:D

So far all I have done is make the chassis and attached a suspension set up.:(

One day I might do more?:o

Cheers

Mike

[Pedro_The_Swift]

including a screen dump?;)

[Tombie]

A little bit more should be done [emoji6]
Get someone who knows CAD to model the weight of your design including its distribution..

[DoubleChevron]

I asked my father about your layout ... and he said straight away ... baley riminie.... swift and a few other manufacturers do them themm

http://www.caravancampingsales.com.au/buy/used/OAG-AD-13664581/2015-Bailey-Rimini/?cr=0&category=caravans&psq=%28%28%28SaleStatus%3D%5BFor%20Sale%5D%26%28%2 8%28SiloType%3D%5BDealer%20Used%5D%7CSiloType%3D%5 BDealer%20New%5D%29%7CSiloType%3D%5BPrivate%20Used %5D%29%7CSiloType%3D%5BDealer%20Near%20New%5D%29%2 9%26Service%3D%5BCaravancampingsales%5D%29%26%28Ma ke%3D%5BBailey%5D%26Model%3D%5BRimini%5D%29%29&pso=0&pss=Premium

twin singles, front lounge, full ensuite across the back

[DoubleChevron]

http://baileyaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/floorplans_cordoba.jpg

here you go ... bailey website australia.


UNICORN 3: CORDOBA (TWIN-AXLE)
Berths 4
Internal Length 6.380m / 20?11?
Shipping Length 7.920m / 26?0?
Overall Width 2.350m / 7?8?
Overall Height 2.720m / 8?11?
Internal Headroom 1.96m / 6?5?
Awning Size 15ft
Tyre Sizes 185x65 R15
Tare Weight 1680kg
ATM 2100kg
Ball Weight 100kg
Carrying Capacity 420kg
Bed Sizes
Front Double 5?10? x 6?6?
Front N/S Single 6?0? x 2?2?
Front O/S Single 5?10? x 2?2?
N/S Rear Fixed Single 6?3? x 2?4?
O/S Rear Fixed Single 5?10? x 2?4?
Rear Fixed Double

[Homestar]

I like that layout.

[Tombie]

Not a bad layout... you'll need to do some calculations on what you want in it to enable positioning of axles to provide balance and ball weight.

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Thats gunna be looong!:o

heres one thats close-- just swap the island for bunks,, they have a gazzillion different models---

[Pedro_The_Swift]

I asked my father about your layout ... and he said straight away ... baley riminie.... swift

I think this is what Incisor has been on about---

I just visited www.swiftcaravans.com.au
and got this!

:o

[pop058]

Thats gunna be looong!:o

heres one thats close-- just swap the island for bunks,, they have a gazzillion different models---


If you are camped up and outside, you have to dance around every thing else in the van just to get to the loo.

IMHO, the things you use the most eg. the loo and the kettle (or fridge) should have easy simple access.

Stick the bed away from the door both for use (once a day normally) and privacy.

[DoubleChevron]

Thats gunna be looong!:o

heres one thats close-- just swap the island for bunks,, they have a gazzillion different models---


Yeah ... but size is everything :p ... seriously, have a look at the weights. The tare is about 1.6tons. Try finding an aussie van even smaller like the one drawn up that weighs less than 2 tons.... I reallly like those bailey front couches. There very comfortable, there is a pull out table that will become a small table, or extend right out to the length of the couches (eg: playing cards with friends).

The cafe seating and seating in aussie 'vans always seems to be the wrong shape, and not great to sit in/on.

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Dancing Paul? really? at your age? :p
no dancing or sidesteps required with my design,, its a straight shot down the hall,,

[Mick_Marsh]

Found you a van, Mr Swift.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/991208027571070/permalink/1536260416399159/'sale_post_id=1536260416399159&rt=11

A great little project for you.

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Er Ok, Mr Marsh,, can you take a screen shot and post it?

[pop058]

Caravan | eBay (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Caravan-/292019942871?hash=item43fdbeb5d7:g:6pAAAOSwo4pYltP D)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/02/349.jpg

:D

[cruiser1]

Should check out the Bruder EXP-6. See bruderx.com

[Mick_Marsh]

Er Ok, Mr Marsh,, can you take a screen shot and post it?

Ah. It's sold.
What a bargain. What, sold in a day.

[DoubleChevron]

Ah. It's sold.
What a bargain. What, sold in a day.

That enormous thing with a slide in it .... How the hell would you tow it :eek: :eek: I was back to 70km/h towing my block of flats back from the beach yesterday. The gusty winds made towing very, er, "exciting". I noticed even a Bdouble heading down to Geelong was doing about 70km/h in a hundred zone... and it's all downhill for them to Geelong.

seeya,
shane L.

[Lionelgee]

We are in the throws of rebuilding our 1970 Millard. Similar design to yours pedro though we have a L shaped kitchen and seating beside with a loose table. We have looked at hundreds of vans for ideas and there are none out there with single bunks and rear on-suite.

Mrs hh:angel:

Single bunks, rear on-suite , porch, chimney .... mobile all the comforts of home ... Accessed February 13, 2017 from Al's housetruck page 1 (http://www.housetrucks.com/alHT/page1.html)

Kind Regards
Lionel

[Narangga]

Single bunks, rear on-suite , porch, chimney .... mobile all the comforts of home ... Accessed February 13, 2017 from Al's housetruck page 1 (http://www.housetrucks.com/alHT/page1.html)

Kind Regards
Lionel

We're heading towards the Ettamogah Pub... :o

[pop058]

We're heading towards the Ettamogah Pub... :o

which one ?

[Narangga]

which one ?

Ask Pedro - he may decide on both.

[The ho har's]

Off the the Gold Coast Caravan show today to get more ideas :ohyes::unsure:

Mrs hh:angel:

[pop058]

Dont forget the :rulez:

[The ho har's]

Dont forget the :rulez:

I didn't take any pics :( What we did work out though they, as in any brand, are all the same layout. Very boring....

Mrs hh:angel:

[Pedro_The_Swift]

I didn't take any pics :( What we did work out though they, as in any brand, are all the same layout. Very boring....

Mrs hh:angel:


Correct Mrs HH. ALL of them. like cookies out of a cutter. boring as hell.

[DiscoMick]

Yes, not much innovative thinking from what I've seen.

[The ho har's]

Well we are standing with our original design.

Bathroom down the back, 2 single beds over the wheel arches. Fridge/stove/sink down the drivers side behind hh's bed. The counter will wrap around the front windows, then a small L shaped couch to the door, with removal table. My bed ends at the door. When I work out how to do a scale drawing here I might try. We have it all laded out here to scale.

Mrs hh:angel:

[pop058]

Well we are standing with our original design.

Bathroom down the back, 2 single beds over the wheel arches. Fridge/stove/sink down the drivers side behind hh's bed. The counter will wrap around the front windows, then a small L shaped couch to the door, with removal table. My bed ends at the door. When I work out how to do a scale drawing here I might try. We have it all laded out here to scale.

Mrs hh:angel:

take a pic and post it [smilebigeye]

[The ho har's]

seems I can't add Pics

Mrs hh:angel:

[Pedro_The_Swift]

strange,,

[The ho har's]

I worked it out :clap2: Not super clear though :(

Mrs hh:angel:

120198120199

[weeds]

I worked it out :clap2: Not super clear though :(

Mrs hh:angel:

120198120199

Hang on, the beds are the same length!!!

Heaps more storage available if you shorten one bed.....

[Pedro_The_Swift]

yea, you need to get the sink out of that corner,
can you shrink the door side bed and stick the fridge there?

[pop058]

Having the fridge and stove (and their vents) on the door side puts all the hot air from them into your annex. Much better on the RHS IMHO.

[The ho har's]

Hang on, the beds are the same length!!!

Heaps more storage available if you shorten one bed.....

Yes we have thought of that.


yea, you need to get the sink out of that corner,
can you shrink the door side bed and stick the fridge there?

No the sink stays where it is. We have exactly the same sink/stove combo in our camper, I have a cover for the stove so when washing up I can leave the dishes on the drainer in the corner out of the way. When the cabinets are built I am having a swing away door so I can access that corner under the sink.


Having the fridge and stove (and their vents) on the door side puts all the hot air from them into your annex. Much better on the RHS IMHO.

Correct.

Mrs hh:angel:

[LandyAndy]

Pedro.
When we went to the Caravan and olde fartes Show last year,this was my favorite,it was one of the few Deb said she liked.The kitchen up front left the van very roomy and airy,especially having a slide out.Its the sort of van I'm looking for.Also like the panels for the roof/walls and floor,light and strong.
The show is on again next week/weekend,hoping to go for another look see.
50th Anniversary Avida Topaz Caravan Review - Avida RV (https://www.avidarv.com.au/news-videos/rv-reviews/905-50th-anniversary-avida-topaz-caravan-review)
Andrew

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Thats a serious slideout!!
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/03/499.jpg

[LandyAndy]

Went to the show today.The Topaz came up as my favorite again.
It seems the front kitchen model is to be discontinued shortly.That didn't trick me into opening my wallet up!!!!
The lounge at the front version is pretty good too.Nice and roomy.
They weigh well too,sub 3000kg with aprox 500kg to spare.
EXPENSIVE,$110K
Andrew

[harlie]

I solved the problem by building my own. Didn't break the bank & we got exactly what we wanted.

I followed suit. After compiling a list of what we wanted and getting prices in the 80k+ range the decision was made to self build.

[harlie]

this was on the way to QT for rego - now finishing interior which is not like any layout I've seen....

harlie's top tip: Don't make a poptop! It is the only bit that provided a challenge, but now its done the advantages are pretty big - like garaging....

[Milton477]

Harlie,
That looks really good. Have you documented the build anywhere like on another forum?
I'm sure that there are some folk on this forum considering building something themselves & would like to know how easy it is.

[Homestar]

Yeah, I'd love to see some build pics and some detail on how it was built. :)

[DiscoMick]

At the Brisbane 4WD Show we spent a lot of time looking at hybrid campers and were particularly impressed with the Jawa from the Sunshine Coast. A lot for the money and the quality seemed good. Stony Creek and Black Series also good, but the Jawa were better value.
New JAWA TRAX-12 OFFROAD HYBRID CARAVAN - SLEEPS 4 for sale in Maroochydoore | Best Offroad Camper Trailers in Maroochydoore - Maroochydoore, QLD (http://www.jawacampertrailers.com.au/for-sale/Caravans/JAWA-TRAX-12-OFFROAD-HYBRID-CARAVAN-SLEEPS-4/HMG9MY/details?fr=13&fd=3000&ft=7&fb=0)

[weeds]

At the Brisbane 4WD Show we spent a lot of time looking at hybrid campers and were particularly impressed with the Jawa from the Sunshine Coast. A lot for the money and the quality seemed good. Stony Creek and Black Series also good, but the Jawa were better value.
New JAWA TRAX-12 OFFROAD HYBRID CARAVAN - SLEEPS 4 for sale in Maroochydoore | Best Offroad Camper Trailers in Maroochydoore - Maroochydoore, QLD (http://www.jawacampertrailers.com.au/for-sale/Caravans/JAWA-TRAX-12-OFFROAD-HYBRID-CARAVAN-SLEEPS-4/HMG9MY/details?fr=13&fd=3000&ft=7&fb=0)

Fridge not standard.....

One thing I did notice was a few manufacturers were using evaKOOL's

[Homestar]

At the Brisbane 4WD Show we spent a lot of time looking at hybrid campers and were particularly impressed with the Jawa from the Sunshine Coast. A lot for the money and the quality seemed good. Stony Creek and Black Series also good, but the Jawa were better value.
New JAWA TRAX-12 OFFROAD HYBRID CARAVAN - SLEEPS 4 for sale in Maroochydoore | Best Offroad Camper Trailers in Maroochydoore - Maroochydoore, QLD (http://www.jawacampertrailers.com.au/for-sale/Caravans/JAWA-TRAX-12-OFFROAD-HYBRID-CARAVAN-SLEEPS-4/HMG9MY/details?fr=13&fd=3000&ft=7&fb=0)

I like that a lot. :)

[DiscoMick]

Yes it's good value for money. There are choices about fridges.

[loanrangie]

I like that a lot. :)


Me too, i would prefer one of these instead of a proper caravan.

[Vern]

My parents built their own. 14"6 × 8".
Very well thought out and surprisingly roomy for the size. Now Centaur own the business.https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/973.jpghttps://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/974.jpghttps://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2017/04/975.jpg

[Homestar]

Me too, i would prefer one of these instead of a proper caravan.

Yeah, one thing I've found is that we rarely use the kitchen inside - easier to BBQ outside in the Summer where the van gets the most use with us, so an outdoor kitchen makes a lot of sense.

[LandyAndy]

I'm really liking the Zone vans.Just got sent the update going into production now.Impressive,they saved 60kg out of the chassis and made it stronger.
ZONE RV 2.0 Range - The First Preview with ZONE RV Director David Biggar - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhypqhbLk8U&inf_contact_key=5e059ae80d84b98e4f50df94cb789db65b 7965cf29f29caaa439d6b6d246dbab)
Andrew

[LandyAndy]

Yeah, one thing I've found is that we rarely use the kitchen inside - easier to BBQ outside in the Summer where the van gets the most use with us, so an outdoor kitchen makes a lot of sense.

Yes an outdoor cooking area is on my wish list.
Andrew

[harlie]

Harlie,
That looks really good. Have you documented the build anywhere like on another forum?
I'm sure that there are some folk on this forum considering building something themselves & would like to know how easy it is.

Hi Guys
I have a heap of pictures, some short videos, cad files and a planning document - It isn't online, the cad files and planning doc were purely for construction - so steps didn't get missed and so the helpers could understand what was in my head. If there's enough interest I could do it up.

I started with a list of requirements like most of us

sleeping for 2 + 2
full bathroom (not corner combo)
full size slide-out outside kitchen - not the crap that the commercial companies do, you know the slide out that has a stove and sink, and all your gear (pots, crockery, utensils, paper towel ect ect) is still inside in the real kitchen or at best in another box. My self built Camper trailer had a 2.1m long slide out with 9 draws that had everything in it, roll it out and you done - no going back in.
be able to transport min 3 (maybe 4) trail bikes - (yeah yeah I've gone yobo) with the load over or infront of the wheels. All the rear load toy haulers must have stipid ball weights when the 350ish kg of toys aren't there (well behind the wheels). The caravan can be used without the toys and I estimate that over 75% of trips won't have bikes.
pop top for lower garaging
independent air suspension to give the same advantages as our Rangies - same soft ride no matter what load, high off road mode, low fit in the garage mode and a sensible tow height that's got a better ctr of gravity than most of these off road vans


Try and find this list at the caravan show....


Yes an outdoor cooking area is on my wish list.
Andrew

DONE! I go camping to sit outside, I have no kitchen inside at all - slides out the side with everything you need.

Now it must be said, there are easier and faster ways to construct the interior than what I've done, but not stronger and would struggle to be lighter - but the interior has taken a lot of time....

[DiscoMick]

Me too, i would prefer one of these instead of a proper caravan.
There are similar hybrid designs from Jawa, Lifestyle, Stony Creek and MDC that we have looked at. I think Black Series might have one also.
Just check the websites.
We are looking at upgrading from the camper trailer ahead of retirement, but we don't want a big heavy van, we want something light and flexible. Roll out sleeping areas are good. We would prefer to cook outside most of the time. We are undecided about internal shower-toilet.
We won't be buying for a while because we are putting money into a reno, so we have time to look around.

[weeds]

Hi Guys
I have a heap of pictures, some short videos, cad files and a planning document - It isn't online, the cad files and planning doc were purely for construction - so steps didn't get missed and so the helpers could understand what was in my head. If there's enough interest I could do it up.

I started with a list of requirements like most of us

sleeping for 2 + 2
full bathroom (not corner combo)
full size slide-out outside kitchen - not the crap that the commercial companies do, you know the slide out that has a stove and sink, and all your gear (pots, crockery, utensils, paper towel ect ect) is still inside in the real kitchen or at best in another box. My self built Camper trailer had a 2.1m long slide out with 9 draws that had everything in it, roll it out and you done - no going back in.
be able to transport min 3 (maybe 4) trail bikes - (yeah yeah I've gone yobo) with the load over or infront of the wheels. All the rear load toy haulers must have stipid ball weights when the 350ish kg of toys aren't there (well behind the wheels). The caravan can be used without the toys and I estimate that over 75% of trips won't have bikes.
pop top for lower garaging
independent air suspension to give the same advantages as our Rangies - same soft ride no matter what load, high off road mode, low fit in the garage mode and a sensible tow height that's got a better ctr of gravity than most of these off road vans


Try and find this list at the caravan show....



DONE! I go camping to sit outside, I have no kitchen inside at all - slides out the side with everything you need.

Now it must be said, there are easier and faster ways to construct the interior than what I've done, but not stronger and would struggle to be lighter - but the interior has taken a lot of ....

Very interesting.....do you have in cab control on the trailer suspension?? Always like seeing out of the box thinking.

[harlie]

Very interesting.....do you have in cab control on the trailer suspension?? Always like seeing out of the box thinking.

No, need to get out and press a button. The system does have an optional smart phone interface but I can't really see the need.

The L322 is locked to standard height when it sensors a trailer plugged in, I have installed a switch on the data (iBus) wire from the trailer light controller (the car no longer knows about a trailer once this is switched but the trailer lights still work) that enables the height changes on the car - this switch also takes the rear parking sensors offline as well - it's in the boot so I need to get out to enable height changes anyway (prefer to allow the car to operate as normal while on the highway with the ECUs back online)

[Milton477]

I have to say, the air suspension available makes life so much easier for the van itself as well as having the advantage of levelling on sloping sites & lowering to get it in the garage.

While I considered self leveling suspension controls during my build, I opted for the KISS principle & settled on 2 up/down air toggle switches, a 5l tank & a cheapie compressor & pressure switch. My suspension needs to run with a clearance of 70mm from the bump stops which translates into 4 fingers between the top of the tyre & the underside of the mudguard. You only have to adjust it once a day or less if the camps are level. I have 2 schraeder valves plumbed in so if my van compressor dies I can pump the bags with any outside source of air.

In the 35k Km we have done which has included a trip to the Birdsville races & many dirt road kms, nothing has broken or come loose in the van. The microwave still works & the TV has not fallen off its mountings. All eggs have survived & no drinks cans have exploded. We don't pack the fridge any different to the fridge at home. The van is stable & I have never had a wobbly moment even on the long downhill sweeping curves which upset some rigs.

Anyone shopping for a van should IMHO have dual shocked air suspension right on top of the list if possible especially if venturing off the blacktop.

121508

[DiscoMick]

That's an impressive rig, although a bit big for us. Great build though, well done.