A Slightly Different Mini Campervan Build

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2011 Toyota Sienna MiniCamperVan Build - Phase 1.
Just a quick video to share some (hopefully) useful tips and ideas for your campervan build. Audio quality is not the best, sorry about that. Feel free to leave comments and questions. If you're wondering about availability of plans - sorry, no, this is a one-off build from a bunch of scribble notes on napkins.
See Phase 2: Sienna MiniCamperVan Gets Serious • Sienna MiniCamperVan G...
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Here are links to products I used in this project. Check my RU-vid channel to see other videos covering different aspects of this Sienna MiniCamperVan build. I have not received any of these products as promotional items for review. I have merely purchased and used them myself. Please note, I can earn commissions on purchases made through these links.
MAJOR COMPONENTS
Rich Solar 100W Solar Panel amzn.to/2BaKryv
Epever MPPT 20 Amp Solar Charge Controller amzn.to/35wtA7g
FullRiver Deep Cycle 12 Volt 105 Amp-hour AGM Battery amzn.to/33vVjDb
ICECO JP40 Portable Refrigerator amzn.to/2pncGqY
NOCO G26000 Battery Charger amzn.to/2IStPjj
AIMS Power 1500W/3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter amzn.to/2VLuV5B
AIMS Power Inverter Remote Switch amzn.to/35BNUE8
LIGHTING
LED Strip Lights amzn.to/2oyfjXc
LED Strip Lighting Channels amzn.to/2VOw5NW
Recessed LED Downlights amzn.to/2oxHdmd
LED Dimmable Puck Light amzn.to/35BMIAE
WIRING
Solar Power Cable (10 gauge) amzn.to/33AABSR
Welding Cable (2 gauge, 10' each, red & black) amzn.to/2Mj9ki1
Electrical Wire (10 gauge, 50' each, red & black) amzn.to/32iuaUe
Electrical Wire (14 gauge, 100' each, red & black) amzn.to/32kdDiG
WIRE TERMINATIONS (CONNECTORS, LUGS, HEAT SHRINK)
Terminal Lugs for Welding Cable amzn.to/2ISaNJR
Wire Connectors (House battery cable disconnect) amzn.to/33G3v47
Wire Connectors (General purpose, uninsulated) amzn.to/32o7kL2
Wire Connectors (Harness disconnects) amzn.to/2MHxTE3
Wire Connectors (XT-60 style) amzn.to/2Mdpfye
Wire Connectors (Butt, uninsulated) amzn.to/32hw1IF
Heat Shrink Tubing for large gauge wire amzn.to/2oHLcfU
Heat Shrink Tubing for medium gauge wire amzn.to/2nPzejW
NOCO Shore Power Surface Mount Receptacle amzn.to/32gqgLp
WIRE MANAGEMENT
iExcell Wire Bundle Saddles amzn.to/2phsxHR
Wire Bundle Clamps amzn.to/2qga9Q3
FUSE & JUNCTION BLOCKS
Fuse Block (Battery and inverter cables) amzn.to/35Ccsgf
Fuse Block (Lighting, fans, fridge circuits) amzn.to/2pjkIRW
Fuse Block (Solar controller circuits) amzn.to/31e3m6i
Wire Terminal Block amzn.to/33zJ7S7
Junction Block (Battery and inverter cables) amzn.to/33wNHQT
SWITCHES
Main Power Disconnect Switch amzn.to/33tpV8o
Blue Glow Light Switches amzn.to/2oxGTnv
USB and Power Port with Mounting Plate amzn.to/35BP56w
Dimmer Switches amzn.to/2pmNZuK
Toggle Switch DPDT amzn.to/35CMt8w
ELECTRICAL TOOLS
Wire Crimpers amzn.to/2qg0s46
Lug Crimping Tool amzn.to/35vxKw5
Heat Gun (for heat shrinking) amzn.to/35CBa0j
ACCESSORIES
Milliard Foam Mattress Full-Size Tri-Fold amzn.to/2IR9ydS
Milliard Foam Mattress Carry Case amzn.to/2MEINdT
Weather Station amzn.to/2VMXpfl
Back of Seat Organizers amzn.to/2MdW2mQ
Portable Clip Fan amzn.to/2MeR9cZ
Sink amzn.to/31c1Hhn
Sink Faucet amzn.to/31cqthy
WeatherTech Window Shades amzn.to/2ITT2Kb
Mobile Solar Power Made Easy book by Will Prowse amzn.to/2Mfivjr
(I purchased a copy of Will's book and found it useful. I have not contacted him about listing it here)
HARDWARE
Sugru Moldable Glue amzn.to/2MvFEOz
EZ-Lok Threaded Inserts amzn.to/2OOYoKu
T-Nuts amzn.to/2nLMh5X
Folding Table Legs amzn.to/2MgnXSZ
Toggle Latches amzn.to/2MHKGX3
Black Hooks (single) amzn.to/35BxGuP
Black Hooks (double) amzn.to/2pmeRev
Piano Hinge (48") amzn.to/2MfOYGm
Black Wood Screws amzn.to/31in7JI

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15 июн 2024

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Комментарии : 1,7 тыс.

@kimx.2282 5 лет назад

This is the best Mini-van build that I seen so far.

@angelinaevans724 5 лет назад

Ditto to that

@opal386 5 лет назад

Agree. I like the design that does not change the manufacturer's interior context.

@jtimgray 5 лет назад

This is excellent. You could start your own business making these. I'll be first in line. 😁

@msnoonan 4 года назад

I agree. I'm like most who want to travel but don't want the expense or hassle of an RV, plus I don't want a mini-van conversion that limits the resale value of the vehicle. When I'm done with the mini-van conversion and my travels, I just want to be able to undo the conversion, stick the seats back in, and move on.

@rockngrannyroadwarrior8807 4 года назад

Hi Bru

@forestyforest 5 лет назад

That is a genius set up. Impressed with your craftsmanship. Keep us updated with your progress.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

ForestyForest - thanks for the comments. I’ll post updates as I add features in 2019.

@Sig721Tau 5 лет назад

@@BruceParks Link to those WeatherTech window shades? Cost?

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

@@Sig721Tau - www.weathertech.com/toyota/2011/sienna/sunshade/ Full vehicle = $170

@MarcillaSmith 2 года назад

@@BruceParks Congrats on the props from Mr. Checkmark ;) There is a lot done well here. In particular, I want to point out the way you installed the LED's both under-cabinet and also with a diffuser. Top notch!

@BruceParks 2 года назад

@@MarcillaSmith Thanks for the nice comment, much appreciated. I’ve made a number of upgrades over the past few years which you might appreciate as well. They are all shared in videos on my channel. Be well, and thanks again.

@contactjoy4140 4 года назад

Bruce, your free standing interior design is PURE GENIUS!! I have a 2004 Ford Freestar that I don't want to damage as to the beautiful interior features. Your design will fit perfectly to preserve the van interior. Your structure is ideal. Thanks for the ideas! May you and your wife enjoy your travels!

@BruceParks 4 года назад

Thanks so much for the nice comment. Best wishes on your project!

@vadotson1974 5 лет назад

This is great. I don't know how many, many, many van build videos I've watched trying to figure out the best build for my Town & Country. Hands down, this is the cleanest design I've seen. Bravo!

@artravision 5 лет назад

So true!

@spudbono5747 5 лет назад

Great design. I wish the rv builders would hire folks like you as consultants when designing. They end up with spaces 10 times this size but still inefficient.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thx for the comment. I know what you mean about space efficiency. Just going through the mental exercise in my project, I felt the smaller the space you have to work with the more critical it is to be hyper-aware of how to use each cubic inch.

@jonwebb5241 5 лет назад

Excellent design, fit and finish!

@dianebassett1930 3 года назад

@@BruceParks I also compliment you on how you made many aspects multi-use (ie, the bed section doubles as a table). This is truly genius. With the covid lockdown we are hoping to convert our 2017 Sienna minivan into a camper but we have no engineering or carpentry skills. Can we clone you?

@BruceParks 3 года назад

@Diane Bassett Haha, I wish you would, that’s about the only way I’d be able to build all the conversions people have asked for.

@Ehamiltn 5 лет назад

Cleanest, most simplistic, minimalistic and well thought out home grown build I've see. What a great job!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Eric Hamilton - I really appreciate your comments!

@timfranks2 5 лет назад

I overland, tent camp and back pack. I have seen a lot of car camp set ups over the years. This is by far one of the best set ups I have seen. Fantastic job!!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the comment, I really appreciate your perspective. I’ve got some more ideas I want to develop and build so stay tuned.

@donnawinters3587 5 лет назад

I know you've had so many comments saying the same thing, but this is by far the best minivan buildout I've ever seen.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the comment! Regardless of what has been said in the past, comments like yours are always greatly appreciated.

@RiaSwiftHealing 5 лет назад

You must be a builder of some kind. The way you adhere things to the inside is miraculous to me. I've been researching for almost 2 years and you by far have the simplest, least complicated system. Way to go man. Your one of my favorites.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks Ria

@davethesignguy4414 5 лет назад

You should sell plans for this design!

@jasperbuitenhuis6771 5 лет назад

Me too looks great!

@marthagonzalez5528 5 лет назад

Yeah

@traviscarroll7 5 лет назад

I would buy the plans as well

@Hitek218 5 лет назад

I would buy plans also ✊🏼

@ticarro22 5 лет назад

Bruce, definitely make plans for all of us to see on paper

@rayfletcher3683 5 лет назад

Over 70 years of living I've noticed that apparently simple engineering is actually very difficult. You have excelled ,Sir! A suburb example of the KISS principle.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks Ray, I know of what you speak. Simple elegance is not simple to achieve.

@Mrflashlite 5 лет назад

This was one of the nicest minivan conversions I've seen on Youtbe.

@SignedOff402 5 лет назад

Due to inability to find a job, I am faced with living in my minivan. This is giving me great ideas. Thank you!

@VocalSpiritPresents 4 года назад

🙏🙏

@juliecastagnaro2868 4 года назад

Can try walmart

@johnbergholm 5 лет назад

Great design and execution. Lots of nice little touches. Love the foot of the bed that becomes a table.

@katelau926 5 лет назад

Really admire your craftsmanship. I like the option of the interior of the minivan still intact. Your the only one I've seen so far who hasn't ripped everything out on the inside of the mini-van to incorporate a detailed build. I didn't think it was even possible..... until I saw your video. Thank you for sharing!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Kate Lau - thanks for the comments. I’m planning to add some more features in 2019 and will post updates when they’re available.

@katelau926 5 лет назад

@@BruceParks Look forward to it

@kelliethorne1200 5 лет назад

What an elegant build! You've built my Eurovan but in a modern, probably less problematic vehicle! I'm super jelly!

@offairhead 4 года назад

This is exactly what ive been wanting to do but haven't been able to find anything similar. I don't want to permanently modify my van and i need room to sit up in the bed but still want to use the storage well where the 3rd row should be stowed. This is, by far, the most brilliant design I've ever seen!!!! Thank you!!!

@hongshi8251 5 лет назад

Thank you very much Mr. Parks! After a rather lengthy search, I was almost sold on the Ram Promaster but you can't find these at my price point and they don't really offer any advantages for the occasional weekend camper. Now I'm on the search to use a Dodge Caravan so that possibly I can have the stow and go seating available for daily use and children (just 2 middle seats). Very inspirational. The whole point for my personal use is just to travel within say 200 miles for a weekend, see the sights, and avoid the motel expense for one or 2 nights. It makes it very nice for a small family to get away and enjoy life. It still makes me wonder how people can spend so much money on these campers, RV's, van conversions, etc and not be under duress with a budget. You are a great inspiration sir, thank you.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thank you, I’m glad you found my project useful. I think we’re in the same camp about not spending a ton of money on a big extra vehicle. It’s really not needed. With the small van approach however, every square inch becomes more valuable and careful thought pays off when building something.

@hongshi8251 5 лет назад

I really liked how you didn't drill any holes anywhere and clamped everything down. I especially thought your fresh and grey water tanks were built in so handy by just opening then side door. Regarding these people who are actually living full time in vans, it seems to me that they must have a screw loose. A van, tiny house, or RV is just not something that gets more valuable over time. Many of these people have drained someone's pocket and spent at the very minimum $10,000 dollars. They then engage in a life of bad smells, no friends, and cop bait as nearly all of them have narcotics onboard. I wonder what we have created with this van dwelling movement? Thanks again for your video.

@edenbreckhouse 3 года назад

I'm a trained cabinetmaker. I have converted 3 vans and renovated a boat interior and this conversion is excellent - a really clever design allied to beautiful craftsmanship - my congratulations.

@BruceParks 3 года назад

I'm humbled by your perspective, thanks for sharing it. I've made some upgrades beyond this video, which you might appreciate if you haven't already seen them (ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-oO2-2EKtJLc.html). Cheers!

@michelveczan9859 3 года назад

The title of your video is THE ULTIMATE understatement! The 166 thumbs down need their vision adjusted. Truly a masterpiece. Bravo!

@BruceParks 3 года назад

Wow, thank you! Your comment made my day!

@daniealleblum 5 лет назад

What a great way to build something functional and nice that doesn't do any harm to the van. Just brilliant, thank you for sharing.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the nice comment, I really appreciate it!

@dano7369 5 лет назад

I have a 2015 Sienna LE and this is THE BEST conversion I've seen for one. I'll try to emulate some of what you've done in my conversion. Thanks for sharing!

@rgandmjroberts8344 4 года назад

Right up there as one of the best mini-van camper conversions. Coming from a carpenter, your craftsmanship is superb !

@BruceParks 4 года назад

Thanks for the nice comment, I truly appreciate it!

@user-hz7kv6js6l 4 года назад

Thank you for pointing out in detail all the little things about your build. I love the fact that you did not have to put any holes in the van and how you built all of the frame work to attach to the floor of the van. This is really more up my ally right now just for getting my feet wet doing some short trip to start with and to see if I would love traveling like this. Thank you for sharing this.

@dougsharongray5106 5 лет назад

Holy crap, Bruce. I can't decide which aspect I'm more impressed with -- the design or the build. The design is genius and the build quality is impeccable. You are amazing. But not unlike Da Vinci and Newton, maybe a tad cray-cray. All the great ones are. Can't wait to see campervan 3.0!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks Doug. This build was a rush job. Imagine if I had more time :-). As a slightly crazed retired engineer, I see opportunities for optimization in everything I look at, but I also know how to let things be and enjoy what I have.

@MrMcjamison 5 лет назад

+1 from Doug's brother: this is amazing, Bruce! I especially love all the clever bits around that front bed surface, the way the attachment points slip away and it turns into a table. You mention an auxiliary battery - can you say a little about where that is and how it's connected? Do you have some sort of charge controller?

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

MrMcjamison - it’s a 13600mAh jump battery plugged into a cig lighter powerport and recharges when the ignition is on. Works well for our meager demand. I’m probably going to upgrade next year to deep cycle battery with fixed roof solar panel (150-200W) and charge controller if load increases.

@texedwards3039 5 лет назад

I worked with a 1984. Toyota cargo van ,I had fun making it ; I'm sure you did to Yours is great!!

@sallypickering6223 4 года назад

@@BruceParks I knew within the first few minutes of watching that I was looking at something designed by an engineer. Excellent design and execution.

@HJFINCH-lp3ob 5 лет назад

This is awesome. So many people are agreeing and wish you'd share/sell your build plans.

@dancingfuel 5 лет назад

That's a great build. I love that everything is self-supported; no drilling into the van itself! Those side cabinets are clever as is the under-cabinet lighting. Footboard/ table with its own storage area...fabulous. So many great ideas and smart solutions. Now to get me some woodworking skills so I can flat- out copy some of this. Thank you for sharing!!!

@dancingfuel 5 лет назад

If you ever do publish plans, I'd be interested in purchasing them.

@thellasnow9458 5 лет назад

This was an absolutely fabulous conversion. P.S. I got a 12 inch zinus foam mattress and cut it in three parts and then cut a few inches off the sides so I have 3 separate couches that are wrapped in mattress protectors and then put into a california king size mattress zipped cover so they can be folded into a couch and out again. Or separate with fabric over them. The full size mattress was $200 on amazon. But this was probably one of my top 2 or 3 minivan conversions. Thank you so so much!

@justguessing7702 Год назад

Where did you get the mattress on Amazon?

@urbangothamprepper1622 5 лет назад

I love the ingenuity. More specifically, the fact that the entire system is removable and has no permanent installation, additions, modifications, etc. I am looking at outfitting a minivan camper style. The catch is, I lease. I'm actually getting a 2019 Chrysler Pacifica this week. Every other YT vid I've seen about minivan builds involves owned or old used vehicles so the owners can tinker as they see fit. Not having that capability is so very limiting and it's great to see a build that abides by those constraints. You sir, have a gift. Kudos!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

UrbanGothamPrepper - Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, I appreciate it! The approach I took can be applied to just about any vehicle, of course the bigger it is the fewer space challenges there are. But building the features to be self-supporting and not dependent on permanent changes to the vehicle presents the biggest challenges. It looks like you comprehend this well. Building out a cargo van would be easy in comparison.

@dianebassett1930 3 года назад

Would love to see what you ended up doing....

@bigeyejim 5 лет назад

Wow! Very well thought out! I'd have stuff flying around the cabin at every corner! LOL. I like how you store stuff on the ceiling of the van!

@glowlight69 5 лет назад

I like that you didn't have to drill holes in your van

@RichardBunbury 4 года назад

Elegant and simple at the same time. I’m blown away by the craftsmanship and engineering and how everything is accomplished so beautifully and economically. You’ve got a work of art.

@BruceParks 4 года назад

Thank you, I appreciate your comments!

@lxe1986 5 лет назад

Hello Bruce, my wife and I have seen quite a few mini van conversions and your is the best looking one that we have seen. I like the type of wood your using and the rounding of the corners. I believe this is what makes the finished product looks so great. If you do any other additions we would like to see how it is done and the type of wood you are using. Take Care, Happy Vanning.

@brettalfero6245 5 лет назад

Wow that’s amazing and so so practical you should go into business... Seen many builds and it looks amazing - very well done!!!

@SaidiLouise 3 года назад

I'm not going to say anything that the other commenters haven't already said....THIS IS INCREDIBLE! This is the most ingenious and organized and clean minivan build I've ever seen....and I've seen about 237,489 at this point. Well done!

@BruceParks 3 года назад

Thanks, I appreciate your comment!

@milkovas556 5 лет назад

By far it's the best e execution of such I've seen.good job

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks, I appreciate your comments.

@vy4648 5 лет назад

Good concept and beautifully executed. You have great wood working skill to achieve such a result. I have watched many van built and this is one of the most innovative concept. Thanks for sharing.

@drphibesrises 5 лет назад

Nice build. Super efficient use of space. Also workmanship is great! Thanks for sharing your ideas.

@joelechner466 2 года назад

This is really well done. Appreciate the finer details - the smooth edges, rounded corners, the use of higher end plywood, the 'mechanics' of how things lock / fold /slide - - such a clean, efficient design.

@BruceParks 2 года назад

Thanks, Joe, I appreciate your comments!

@treezza2817 5 лет назад

I've viewed lots of videos on minivan builds, and this is absolutely the best I've seen! The design is so well thought out. I really like that nothing is permanent and the van can be restored to regular use. The woodwork is beautifully finished, and everything is just so functional and visually appealing. Outstanding work and result!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks so much for the nice comments, I really appreciate them! I've got some updates coming this year so stay tuned.

@bigchiponmyshoulder7573 5 лет назад

You're a very clever chap and ought to be proud of this project. Simple and practical yet ingenious at the same time. I've been scouring YT for a similar set up for my 4x4 and this looks absolutely spot on. If you don't mind I'm going to copy it unashamedly. Best wishes to you and yours.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Big Chip On My Shoulder - I’d be honored if you used some of my ideas, sir.

@bigchiponmyshoulder7573 5 лет назад

@@BruceParks Thank you Sir.

@christinamarie3598 5 лет назад

Very smart..very clean and creative! Thank you for sharing. Best I've seen yet!

@ericbulington2421 5 лет назад

I would pay you for measurements. This looks like such a fun build and I have a 2018 I would love to go camping in with the kids. I think if I had something like this, my wife could sleep in here while the kids and I sleep in the tent. GREAT WORK!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Eric Bulington - Thanks for the comment, I appreciate it! I tend to think of our mini campervan as a hard shell tent. Sleeping in it, we feel super secure and protected from the elements, predators, and unanticipated dangers. With the windows cracked open (with rain guards in place, we don’t worry about water coming in), you can enjoy nature’s soundtrack. You’re wife might wind up really liking it.

@saxmanzzz 3 года назад

I love the way you have avoided any screwing into the vehicle itself. It's a fantastic design and I'm going incorporate as many of your features as I can for my micro-camper build. Thanks for the video

@BruceParks 3 года назад

Glad you found some of the ideas useful!

@yv6eda 5 лет назад

You did an amazing work! Thanks for share it!

@clairejy2331 5 лет назад

A well thought out setup, sir. Sturdy and practical without changing the vehicle....this I like...and it has a nice open feel with storage and vanity that doesn’t jut out. Thank you for sharing.😊

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for watching my video. I appreciate your comment!

@barbara0509123 4 года назад

WOW. This is brilliant. This is the best mini van/car conversion I have seen. You really should sell kits. I would buy one for my SUV in an instant. The fact that that you can put the second row of seats in and out when needed is amazing. Great job. You have amazing skills.

@thomasdunn8214 4 года назад

I marvel at the ingenuity of this build. The craftsmanship of the woodwork is remarkable. Thank you for sharing!

@BruceParks 4 года назад

Comments like yours make my day. Thanks!

@marcoslizete 5 лет назад

Thank you very much for sharing. Great ideas and very practical. Take care, happy traveling and have a blessed Christmas.

@Jeffreviews4u 5 лет назад

Very well built. I'm impressed. Thanks for sharing!

@ggsmith48906 5 лет назад

Very nice sir! I love the way you fastened it in - with the upper cubbys and everything - without screwing into or otherwise damaging/removing the van's interior.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

ggsmith48906 - thx for the comment. The most challenging part of this project was figuring how to make it strong without drilling and screwing it in everywhere. It would be WAY easier otherwise.

@BonnieJeanTlq 5 лет назад

The floor leveling information in your description was very helpful 👍

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

BonnieJeanTlq - thanks for commenting on the floor level design. Nearly all campervans are built without that angle correction.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Sorry, I didn't finish my earlier reply. It's easier to build the sleeping platform without that angle correction but not that much more difficult to take it into account and adjust it to be flat.

@rikkiesix 5 лет назад

Awesome design. Truely genius. Its simple and thats why its soooo cool.

@MySonsMother 5 лет назад

Love this! The only thing I'd change would be to add large holes on the platform for air circulation to not have mold issues.

@dianebassett1930 3 года назад

I saw someone use some strong black plastic stackable bookcase shelves to form a bed platform for a van, which solves that problem (also very light weight, and tall enough to have bins underneath for storage that slide out like drawers)...... I have not tried anything myself, I am stuck in perpetual research mode!

@MySonsMother 3 года назад

Diane, I have a video about that.

@LO2FORJESUS 5 лет назад

This is hands down one if the best designs and craftsmanship I HAVE EVER SEEN! Amazing layout, and such great thought went into this. it's beautiful! great job, thank you very much for sharing!!!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks so much for the wonderful comment. I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

@SupermanQQQQQ 4 года назад

I’ve watched numerous van and all-wheel truck builds for RVing. For saving money and innovative engineering, as a Self-DO, this is now my Top Video, plus the other ones this fine gentleman has uploaded. Possibly certain things are better, better in other people’s builds. But... half the value of any build, is the prep-ing for seeing parts of the United States (especially the National Parks).... IF 1) you don’t have to work a regular job, which give you the TIME and 2) have maintained your health over the years, and can still walk and hike to the best Vistas!

@BruceParks 4 года назад

I appreciate your comments very much. We’re a happily retired and healthy couple and we use our Sienna to do exactly what you described, seeing our beautiful country. At this very moment, we are driving across the west to spend time in the NP’s in Utah. Our build is basically a luxury tent with security and convenience. It suits our travel style very well. Thanks for watching!

@janicem4382 5 лет назад

This is really well planned and implemented! Thanks

@antiquecatfishing7068 5 лет назад

Excellent design, only difference I can see would be either a 3 or 5 gallon bucket for gray water.

@luciac.419 4 года назад

Great job! Put another prop behind the head board area to use it as a seat to sit inside when its raining

@boufd2008 5 лет назад

Great ideas! I like how nothing is screwed into the floors or walls

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Peter Hunt - thanks for the comment. That was the hard part, figuring out how to achieve the desired function without modifying the van.

@alvaradacosta293 5 лет назад

What!!! Such an amazing job... You could make good money doing mini van builds.... good carpentry skills and creativity

@randivoss6669 5 лет назад

Yes, gorgeous build. And clever.

@darylre7935 5 лет назад

Well thought out, I like how your wood cuts show the extent of planning and thinking things through to fit your needs. Multi servicing and organization makes for better convivence down the road. Great video too.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks, I appreciate your nice comment!

@robertoortiz8904 4 года назад

The best, simple and practic adaptation I've had seen. Good job!

@vthobo802 5 лет назад

Absolutely love your van build. Great video, ty

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Phil Rumrill - thanks for the comment, I appreciate it.

@OwnGrownProductions 5 лет назад

Easily the best mini van conversion yet! Do you have plans available?!?!

@robertamccarter4573 5 лет назад

I would also be interested in plans.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thx for the comment. Sorry, plans aren't available as of now. If that changes, I'll let you know.

@RiaSwiftHealing 5 лет назад

@@BruceParks Please let us know. Your design is brilliant.

@kameronnance4058 5 лет назад

I'm also very interested in the plans should you make them available.

@brandonbakhtiar7451 5 лет назад

Bruce Parks Kudos! Wow a build that wouldn’t take months and tens of thousands! Compliments. I hope any plans would include amazon links to the necessary stock of items used along with any “if I could do it differently” commentary. Thank you for sharing!

@NikLyons 4 года назад

I like how small and low key and the fact you didn't have to drill into the existing structure. I think you and your wife must have happy lifes. I got married 2 years ago. It took almost 5 years to get a visa for her. She's got it now and is coming to Florida to stay with me and my mom. We want to travel and build a life together. We have only been together once. We met online and got married in Istanbul and then we flew to Germany for 2 weeks. Susie is gonna be in Florida in December. She's been a caretaker like me and I imagine the freedom you are experiencing and I can feel it. It makes me feel good to see people enjoying their freedom in the pure nature. It's simple yet profound. Many safe travels to you and your wife!

@BruceParks 4 года назад

Thank you for such kind words. Yes, you are right, we have a happy life together and love to enjoy the world together. I wish you and your wife much joy and happiness as well.

@NikLyons 4 года назад

@@BruceParks 🐢 Thank you

@lass-inangeles7564 5 лет назад

Superb build!!!! I cannot believe you managed to fit all this in, its incredible. You covered all the essentials in your build, bravo! The 68 Dislikes are by people who are jealous they don't have your skills!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Lass-in Angeles - Thanks for the great comment, I hadn’t thought of it that way 🙂!

@cindylou2313 5 лет назад

Great engineering!

@Joanna_L 5 лет назад

Outstanding! Just beautiful! Please let me know if/when you're ever ready to sell it... You are brilliant! May you both enjoy it in good health! Happy Holidays 😀🎄

@gbarraco8888 5 лет назад

I can’t believe the functionality you have built into this minivan! Kudos!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Gail Barraco - thanks for the comment!

@tehshorty1 4 года назад

Love this! Not too complicated, but totally comfy and efficient. Thx for sharing

@elisafrye2115 5 лет назад

This is the cleverest van build I have ever seen-of ANY size! Beautifully planned and carried out!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the nice comment, I appreciate it!

@tinabeane 5 лет назад

WOW, AMAZING!!! Like the back storage areas you build for the packing cubes. Very well thought out. Thanks for putting a video together. :) Do you not use a stove for cooking food? I've rented a few minivans that were set up as a camper. Like how you have the kitchen sink inside. The one I was in was at the back, but when it was raining and windy didn't like having to go outside to access. Subbed your channel, looking forward to following along on your channels and how this setup works. Thanks, Tina

@YabadabadooMrMagoo 4 года назад

A magnificent use of space not to mention high quality craftsmanship. You must be an engineer, I am in shock of how perfectly you thought of using every inch of space. You could work for small RV companies and teach them a thing or two. You just gave me some great ideas thank you.

@BruceParks 4 года назад

Thanks for the nice comment. I'm happy you found some useful ideas. Good luck with your build.

@alana7228 5 лет назад

Very clever build! It's quite amazing the amount of room you still have. And I especially love the platform bed where the foot can disappear under the centre of the bed, or poof... become a dining table! Incorporating fold-down legs was genius! 👍👏👏

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

I appreciate your comments, thanks!

@bencuraza5045 5 лет назад

VERY NICE Set Up. Great use of space with well thought design specifically to your vehicle type. Thanks for Sharing :)) Happy SAFE Travels

@krklife594 5 лет назад

Honestly hands down the best van build I've seen! Wish a shower was somehow integrated but awesome build. Really impressed.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the comment. Yes, an integrated shower inside is a challenge. It's doable if you devote some space in the back where you have some depth in the 3rd row seat well to work with. An integrated outdoor shower is easier to pull off. That may be included in an upgrade I do for 2019.

@anothersomebody8195 5 лет назад

I saw a shower head built into the lift gate on one, but the whole shower thing seems like a pain to me. I just pick my campgrounds based on the amenities I want.

@seanoleary1979 5 лет назад

Incredible incredible build.... the quality, the thought that went into it, and the functionality are just phenomenal!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the nice comment, I appreciate it!

@kevinquevem 5 лет назад

The intelligence of the design is obvious, but what really impresses me is the high quality and finish of the woodwork. I'd like to congratulate you on this excellent demonstration. Thanks for posting. Best regards.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Kevin, thanks for the nice comment, I appreciate it!

@Susan-lw8bu 5 лет назад

This is AWESOME! We've been seriously considering van camping and were thinking about going with a cargo van. After watching your video I really think a minivan would work great. Side note: If you ever decide to create and share plans for your rebuild I think you'd get plenty of interest :D Happy camping!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the comment Susan. Yes, choosing between a minivan and something larger requires a bit of thought and an open mind. The important factors that drove us to go with a minivan were: 1) during travel, the vehicle would be mainly used for driving and sleeping; we didn't see ourselves hanging out inside it much; 2) we didn't want to tow anything, like a teardrop trailer, though they are kinda cute; 3) we wanted something that was very reliable; 4) we wanted a reasonable balance between comfort and environmental impact; so an SUV would be too small and a bigger cargo van or RV was too big; 5) we didn't want an extra unused vehicle parked in the driveway most of the year; and 6) we wanted as stealthy a vehicle as possible for rogue missions like parking overnight on a residential street or commercial parking lot - minivans are everywhere and no one looks twice at them.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

John Conrad - conversion of an Expedition EL would be similar to what I did since the length and width of the floor area is about the same behind the front seats. However, your floor to ceiling height is going to make things more difficult because it’s not uniform from front to back. The minivan interior height is around 48” for most of the space. You’ve probably got around 48” right behind the front seats but then there’s less as you get into the 3rd row and towards the back. In order to have enough headroom above the sleeping platform, you’ll have to compromise quite a bit of space below the platform. It’s always a game of compromises. My opinion is sleeping comfort is top priority and all other objectives are open to compromise. Bottom line, yes it’s doable because you have ample floor space but be willing to accept the headroom compromises.

@HikerBiker 5 лет назад

Only possible problem I'm seeing off hand is the sink drain. You might want to fit a better cap on top as it looks like there is none so when it gets a bit filled and you go around a conner you may have water splashing out. It wouldn't take much to run a vent line up higher then the top of the jug and then run the drain tube through a screw-on cap. Nice build, can see you spent some time planning and building.

@ginafuller1654 5 лет назад

Incredible craftsmanship and use of space!!

@asertiv1 5 лет назад

Great build. I really like how u avoided putting holes in the van. The bed looks remarkably comfortable. We are looking to upgrade our 08 w a new sienna. Love the space in these vans.

@brucecggallagher1949 5 лет назад

Brilliant Bruce...one of the more outstanding builds for a mini van. I recently purchased a 1999 Toyota Sienna with very low kilometers and I've been looking through RU-vid for ideas and your presentation is one of the best. Unfortunatley I don't have the storage well in the rear where you've placed the cooler. You've made it somewhat more interesting in regard to the possibilities for camping in a mini van. Regards from British Columbia!

@ka1133 4 года назад

Sure enough ... a 2011 Sienna that I traded for the RV. 😕 Definitely something to look at when I sell the RV and get another Sienna!!

@MrBluesluver 4 года назад

Now that is one cool mini-camper-van! Thank you so much for sharing. I especially like your idea of using the clamps to tie around the hard supports. Excellent video.

@Earth-360 4 года назад

Very professional conversion. Best I have seen. Top notch craftsmanship.

@thememorytraveler4978 5 лет назад

Clever! Clever!! 👏🏻

@kathyhoodstock6886 5 лет назад

Level of detail is very impressive. Definitely will be using your design ideas for my build. Cross bars are brilliant addition I have never seen used, outstanding idea. Beautiful stealth van. Do you have a heater suggestion?

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the comment. I haven't spent much time looking into heaters yet. For 2019, I'm interested in adding a solar panel and deep cycle battery to power more things (e.g. refrigerator, ventilation, heating; all modestly sized). I hope to post as I learn.

@rayfletcher3683 5 лет назад

In a vehicle this size the engine heat works well and for amount used cost is somewhat irrelevant. Worked for us in Western European!

@rayfletcher3683 5 лет назад

Westy eurovan

@JJoeisCooking 3 года назад

Super organized and not cluttered like so many car conversions. Beautiful job.

@BruceParks 3 года назад

Glad you liked it! Thanks!

@lemonhippie9057 5 лет назад

This is probably the most thought out and best layout for a minivan that I’ve seen. I will most definitely be implementing this into my minivan. Awesome job!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks for the comment. Best of luck with your build.

@FayeCalder 5 лет назад

Very nice build. Impressive. Faye

@MaryAmesMitchell 5 лет назад

Brilliant

@jocelynberthay1616 5 лет назад

This is by far the coolest minicamper (Sienna) I've seen so far. Thanks!!

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Jocelyn Berthay - Thanks for the compliment, I really appreciate it!

@marianam8643 3 года назад

Excellent conversion. You are really upping the bar. The clamp idea is genius.

@alanmetclaff6718 5 лет назад

Toyota No.1!

@samanthadodd8112 5 лет назад

Thinking of a sienna. This is the best I have ever seen. Hope u don't mind I'm going to steal some ideas.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

That was my goal, sharing ideas!

@bet5hel 5 лет назад

Very clean and practical. Excellent use of space and resources. Craftsmanship is “spot on”; shows the quality of your work. You have given me some good ideas. All the best for you and your wife.

@BruceParks 5 лет назад

Thanks, I appreciate your comment very much. I'm glad the video was useful to you!