"Camie" the AWD Campervan

Qwin · Dec 3, 2025

Going for hollow plastic ceiling panels with flush LED lighting strips in trenches.
Just off to the unit to work on the van floor, plugging holes etc.

Northernraider · Dec 21, 2025

TheMobileWanderer said:
At least you may know that my conversion will be done by one who pays particular attention to detail.
I did, indeed, think you meant to write 'conversion' but then was unsure why anyone would feel the need to judge another's conversion.

Anyhoo, if you'd like a flavour of what it will be like, check out MORELO or RS Motorhomes or Dethleffs or Carthago for an idea of which end it'll be at. It's a self-commissioned pro-build more than it being a self-build.

If it ever comes to light

TheMobileWanderer · Dec 21, 2025

Northernraider said:
If it ever comes to light

Between illness and a longer-than-expected learning curve in CAD, it's taking longer than expected. All that; and not finding specialist local companies that can do the work, so I've been compelled to look further afield. Currently awaiting response from DVLA regarding whether there needs to be a specific IVA examination or a (simpler) inspection, to approve garage area drop for garage and installation of travel seating.

Northernraider · Dec 21, 2025

TheMobileWanderer said:
Between illness and a longer-than-expected learning curve in CAD, it's taking longer than expected. All that; and not finding specialist local companies that can do the work, so I've been compelled to look further afield. Currently awaiting response from DVLA regarding whether there needs to be a specific IVA examination or a (simpler) inspection, to approve garage area drop for garage and installation of travel seating.

Life is too short

Id just go buy a motorhome and enjoy life.

Qwin · Feb 22, 2026

Update:

Got the Truma Gas/AC water heater fitted, had to do some mods though.
First, to get it to the right height to miss the body side moulding, then create a flat external face to seal against and make room for the gas connection.

A small amount of body trimming was required.

A right angle adaptor makes the connection easier.

1). I used an Aluminium plate and body filler to make the faceplate.
2). This was primed with acid etch primer, to key into the Aluminium.
3). White under coat, followed by White top coat, was then applied.
4). The inlet/exhaust plate was bolted into position using Sikoflex sealant.
5). Cowling fitted using Stainless Machine Screws.
6). Cover clipped into position - installation done.

It remains for the gas and electrical connections to be made, but that's for another day.

Qwin · Mar 14, 2026

Update...........

Electrics
I got this.

Its a combined 1600w Inverter, 70A Battery charger, 50A Solar Controller and mains consumer unit, in one case, so it cuts down on wiring. The single pair of battery leads work for all functions and it has three pairs of MC4 sockets to plug Solar Panels into.

Gas Locker

I turned this used item........

Into This........

Insulation

Started with the ceiling.

Got the Ply struts in place, across the roof beams, ready to glue the roof latts to.

Qwin · Mar 21, 2026

Update........

Added an awning rail, as I found the wind-out canopy on my motorhome was useless. Wind rain and sun all came under it and if there was even a light breeze, it flapped around like a good'n so had to be taken in.

The rail gives me some options, as to what I can hang off the side, and maybe a drive away awning.

Qwin · Mar 28, 2026

Update......
I started laying the ceiling boards.

The channel for the embedded LED lighting is being installed at the same time.

Qwin · Apr 24, 2026

Update...........

Finally got the ceiling completed and the Frame/Blinds for the Skylight fitted.
It was slow work, as I could only clamp one piece at a time and needed to leave it 24 hours till the Sikoflex had fully set.
There was a fair bit of pressure on the curves at the front, I didn't want to risk the planks popping of when I removed the clamps. No chance of that now, I tried pulling one of the pieces and its stuck for good.
So that's my ultra light ceiling box ticked.