Category: Design

It’s My New Ford Transit

I’m pleased to announce the arrival of my little miracle (manufactured today, September 25th, 2015). My little bundle of joy will come home in a few weeks (by convoy), where I’ll help him to quickly grow up (van conversion). As an adult he’ll be able to travel the country and experience America’s natural beauty. My… Continue reading It’s My New Ford Transit

RV Electrical System: My Setup

PREVIOUS: RV Electrical System: Sizing Now that we have a good understanding of the intricacies of a well-designed electrical/solar system for an RV, it’s time to select the actual components for my upcoming Ford Transit cargo van conversion. Considerations The goal I’m striving for, is a fully electrical, self-sufficient van/RV that can handle a minimum… Continue reading RV Electrical System: My Setup

RV Color Design: Where Did My Artistic Mojo Go?

Color schemes and material lists play a big role in the early stages of the cargo van conversion. All further changes to the RV have to conform to those choices. While waiting for the production and delivery of the new van, it’s time to make some final decisions and prepare for actual delivery. Design and… Continue reading RV Color Design: Where Did My Artistic Mojo Go?

DC-Powered Air Conditioner

Sharp will launch its first DC powered air-conditioner later this year. Marketed to the solar home crowd, this and other DC appliances may find their way into your RV. With the increasing use of solar panels worldwide, manufacturers are beginning to explore more and more DC devices for the home. The major advantage is a… Continue reading DC-Powered Air Conditioner

RV Electrical System: Sizing

PREVIOUS: RV Electrical System: Batteries & Solar Panels Sizing Sizing the electrical system in your RV means choosing the different components and making sure they work well together, while their relationship in terms of quantity, size and number is well proportioned. Setting up solar is fairly simple, yet involves many interdependent parts and unless done… Continue reading RV Electrical System: Sizing

Are Floor Vents The Solution For A Hot Problem?

Floor ventilation for small RV’s could be an untapped resource, that has the potential to considerably reduce interior heat gain in off-grid locations and to significantly lower energy needs for 12V refrigerators. Floor Vent Research For The Small RV Boondocking is getting more popular as a cheap alternative for the full-time RV’er. For those of… Continue reading Are Floor Vents The Solution For A Hot Problem?

RV Electrical System: Batteries & Solar Panels

PREVIOUS: RV Electrical System: Design Batteries Central to the system and most visible are the batteries, which have to supply the electricity during the days when a hookup is not available. Two basic types are currently used in RV’s: Lead-Acid Batteries Types: Starting Battery – Use only to start the vehicle; its plates are too… Continue reading RV Electrical System: Batteries & Solar Panels

RV Electrical System: Design

PREVIOUS: RV Electrical System: History Two recent developments will change the future of RV living: flexible panels and Lithium batteries. Neither will benefit everybody, as the extra cost tends to favor boondockers, who receive a greater payback on their investment. Lower prices will inevitably lead to wider use and greater implementation by most, if not… Continue reading RV Electrical System: Design