Posted on Leave a comment

So you bought a Van

Bringing home your new van

You are excited and beyond thrilled. Ready to make that dream come true. The van is yours now. Time to start your build. Where do we start. What do we do first. So much to think about.

If you are anything like us you follow hundreds of people that build and live in a van. You watch youtube videos all the time. Stalking #vanlife on instagram is your new hobby. Work countless hours putting together a list of everything you want out of your new home on wheels. Where to start.

Our advice is start a list. Add everything to your list you could ever want in a tiny home. Think from the outside in. Yes you will probably eliminate items from your list after you find out the cost involved. My advice is to be prepared to have as many items on your list as you can. Adding items after you have started can, more times than not, be more expensive than if you had just done it from the start.

You will want to now choose if you will be the do it yourself-er or have a builder, like Wicked Cool Vans, build for you. Do you have the tools needed to do a quality job yourself? Tools can be expensive. Do you have the know how to do it yourself? Do you have the time to do it yourself? Time is money. Lots of questions to answer before you start.

Here at Wicked Cool Vans we encourage our clients to do things themself. We also encourage our clients to have Wicked Cool Vans do the jobs they don’t have the time or tools to tackle the job. We try to provide tips and list of how to do it yourself.

You will find below a list of basic items used in a van build. This is a suggestion list. You will definitely need more items not listed. If you find you need a suggestion send us an email wickedcoolvans@gmail.com we will try to help out if we can.

Exterior Cuts:

Aftermarket window https://www.vanwindowsdirect.com

Fresair air cooling system- Purchased through Wicked Cool Vans

Max air fan https://amzn.to/3tLGgCs

Max air fan with remote https://amzn.to/3lGURfN

External ports for 30amp power https://amzn.to/3vS36du

Internal Walls:

Sound Deadening https://amzn.to/31778k7

Wiring 

https://amzn.to/3f4y7oP 4 gauge awg amount of feet depends on plan

https://amzn.to/393Hnp6 10/3 wire for shore power set up, feet depends on plan

https://amzn.to/3se0RyT 14 gauge wire, feet depends on plan

https://amzn.to/3tNhWAq 16/3 shore power set up, feet depends on plan

Insulation 

Havelock wool 3-6 batts depending on van model http://havelockwool.refr.cc/russellb

Wood for framing of walls

Strapping

1×1

2×2

¼ inch Plywood for finish walls

¾ inch Birch plywood for cabinets and floors

Ceiling material

Countertop 

Paint or Shellac/polyurethane

Nails

Screws

Glue

Hinges

Drawer pulls https://amzn.to/3tJWPPd

Drawer slides https://amzn.to/319wSw8

Door hinges https://amzn.to/3vYu7fF

Magnetic locks https://amzn.to/3cPMOsQ

Lofted Bed – 2×4’s & strapping

Shower pan option 1 https://amzn.to/3vNzwG5 option 2 https://amzn.to/3cUSFxj more options are available depends on plan/layout

Water heater 4 gallon https://amzn.to/318n31G 

Plumbing supplies depends on plumbing plan

Fresh water tank 30 gallon https://amzn.to/394PqlL

Grey water tank  13 gallon https://amzn.to/3lDJ9m9 

Pump https://amzn.to/3sebBxg 

Pex pipe https://amzn.to/2NFTJMO

Sink undermount https://amzn.to/2QyE17v

Sink counter mount https://amzn.to/3f5E4lq 

Faucet https://amzn.to/3f1Cukp 

Shower walls

Shower fixtures

Toilet https://amzn.to/3f4AjMN

Composting toilet https://amzn.to/3f1CSzn

Refrigerators some choices it depends on layout for size restrictions

https://amzn.to/3c8svb0

https://amzn.to/3rexTxA

https://amzn.to/3r9b12r

https://amzn.to/396jKMO

https://amzn.to/2QlZ8cO

https://amzn.to/3rklwjT

https://amzn.to/3vPkz6r

Table mounts

https://www.lagunusa.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA4feBBhC9ARIsABp_nbVNRqoVxg8LcbqyAianmDN3K-0-8ufkKWNILoP7bZHt1u8MJK1j7pMaAjV7EALw_wcB

https://amzn.to/3tY9uyn

Lights https://amzn.to/3tI6TIA

Solar Panels https://amzn.to/2PdsXvI 

Solar charger https://amzn.to/3vPZb0V size depends on plan

Inverter https://amzn.to/3vLkP6B size depends on plan

Battery https://amzn.to/2NFiVD6 amount of batteries depends on plan

Battery charger https://amzn.to/3raBtcd depends on battery type and plan

Misc electrical

https://amzn.to/395GKvq

https://amzn.to/397QZ2f

https://amzn.to/2P1m00V

https://amzn.to/2QugfcG

https://amzn.to/3r5lTyw

https://amzn.to/2OP5Esr

https://amzn.to/3vPjOdE

https://amzn.to/3d12WrN

https://amzn.to/3d1Zjlv

https://amzn.to/3189akc

https://amzn.to/3cco0MG

https://amzn.to/3vRq2th

https://amzn.to/2OOlfbH

Amounts and sizes of electrical components depends on plan of system

Heater https://amzn.to/3tLk6QV

Swivel Seats https://leisurelines.net/seat-swivels-83-c.asp

Roof Rack -at Wicked Cool Vans we make a custom rack for your van but some others are available at amazon https://amzn.to/317dK1V just make sure it is for your make and model van.

Running Boards tips on running boards is for them to be useful they need to be of a size your foot will fit. I prefer 7 inch ones at least. https://amzn.to/317e0xV

Trailer hitch https://amzn.to/3cbiYQt make sure it will fit your make and model

This list is a suggested parts list. Many other items are needed and will depend on layout,plan,make and model of van.

Wicked Cool Vans

*links are a part of an associate program Wicked Cool Vans takes part in.

Posted on Leave a comment

Promaster Van window install

Click the link to watch a fast youtube video of how it its done. http://youtu.be/EojDrCYw-38

Wicked Cool Vans rear windows install on a Ram Promaster Van. Follow Wicked Cool Vans on facebook at http://www.wickedcoolvans.com and check out our website at http://www.wickedcoolvans.shop Contact us today to complete your custom van build. Thanks for watching please like us and subscribe for more DIY videos.

Items needed:

Back windows for your make and model van ours were purchased from https://www.vanwindowsdirect.com

Window Weld Urethane https://amzn.to/31a4QRl

Edge trim https://amzn.to/3rcrfIo

Cleaning solution https://amzn.to/3seDO77

Raw edge trim paint https://amzn.to/31ala4v

Jig saw https://amzn.to/3cfgFvT

Metal Jig saw blades https://amzn.to/2QplBpq

Metal files https://amzn.to/3rd85lx

Tape https://amzn.to/3lM8omq

duct tape https://amzn.to/3lK8Ilx

Posted on Leave a comment

What’s in a name

Wicked : Going beyond reasonable or predictable limits : of exceptional quality or degree

Cool : Very good : EXCELLENT

Vans : A multipurpose enclosed motor vehicle having a boxlike shape, rear or side doors, and side panels often with windows

www.WickedCoolVans.shop

wickedcoolvans@gmail.com

@wickedcoolvans

Stock your Wicked Cool Vans with everything you need Shop our affiliate program https://amzn.to/2PlPeHJ

Posted on Leave a comment

Solar in your Wicked Cool Van

Solar panels on our Wicked Cool Vans
www.wickedcoolvans.shop Four 100 watt solar panels provide power for our Wicked Cool Vans.

Solar power gives you power from the sun. Building your solar system for your particular needs is the goal. Here are some tips from Wicked Cool Vans.

What items will you need power for? How much sun where you will be traveling? Do you have a maximum price you are able to spend on your solar system? Are you going to depend entirely on solar power? Will there be a back up plan for power?

Food for thought. Will you be shopping for food often? If you need to keep food cold or frozen you will need a place to store such items. A refrigerator is most likely an item you want in your van. Refrigerators draw a lot of power. The option of a smaller 12 volt refrigerator is your best choice. The 12v systems can keep your items cold or even frozen. Having a small refrigerator can let you stay away from civilization longer.

This unit is a refrigerator freezer. Available on Amazon https://amzn.to/3qcgOor

The unit above is calculated at 45 watts of power. The motor only kicks on when the temperature falls below your settings. We find it a perfect unit for our needs and solar system size.

There are other options for cooling your food. We recommend one like this cooler style refrigerator. Cold air sinks. With the units that have a door on the front tend to loose the cold air faster. This makes your unit turn on more often. In turn this uses more power and is less efficient.

Here are some other refrigerators we recommend:

Dometic CRX-65 75500.000.21 12/24 Volt DC Compressor Black Refrigerator and Freezer https://amzn.to/39cLxex

Norcold Nr740Bb Dc Refrigerator 1.7 Cu Ft, 20-1/2″ x 18-1/2″ x 21-1/16″, Black https://amzn.to/3d68AZJ

Dometic CD-50 (DC only) Drawer Refrigerator 47-Liter Capacity and Removable Freezer https://amzn.to/3d4lNCk

Other power items we use are water pumps, water heaters, USB ports, lights, heaters, cooling systems and fans. All of these items can be found with 12 volt power options.

The items require a draw off of your batteries. The wattage they use must be added up to find out what amperage you will need for your system. After you come to that number you must choose your batteries. Lithium batteries or sealed gel batteries? What will your budget allow? We personally have sealed gel batteries in our Wicked Cool Van. We suggest to our clients to go with the lithium from the start if your budget allows.

Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery – 100Ah 12v with Built-in BMS – 3000-5000 Deep Cycle Rechargeable Battery – Perfect for RV/Camper, Marine, Overland/Van, and Off Grid Applications https://amzn.to/3cfdQe8

Three Lithium Battery Bank https://amzn.to/3ab1i6u

After you find your wattage needs you will be able to pick your solar panels. We like the Renogy 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel, Compact Design 42.2 X 19.6 X 1.38 in, High Efficiency Module PV Power for Battery Charging Boat, Caravan, RV and Any Other Off Grid Applications https://amzn.to/31dG0jv we have four on our van.

Size of the panels and your roof top application can determine how many you can fit. We have four 100w panels on our van. More could fit if we needed extra charging power. The Renogy panels are a good size for multiple configurations.

Renogy Rover 40 Amp 12V/24V DC Input MPPT Solar Charge Controller Auto Parameter Adjustable LCD Display Solar Panel Regulator fit for Gel Sealed Flooded and Lithium Battery https://amzn.to/3vYgzAv is needed to connect your solar panels to your batteries and other equipment.

Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter 3000 Watt Solar Power Battery Converter 12VDC to 120Vac ETL Listed https://amzn.to/3tTkDjA is needed if you intend on using items that require a 120v plug. The inverter allows your solar to power most any lower wattage plug in items. If you intend to charge a computer, plug in a cooktop or run a water heater an inverter is needed.

Multiple breakers and fuses are needed in any system. This allows the proper amount of energy through your cables. If the cable is overloaded the breakers or fuses with break/stop. Helping your system perform in a safe manner.

Blue Sea Systems ST Blade ATO/ATC Fuse Blocks https://amzn.to/3riyI8T

T Tocas 100 Amp Circuit Breaker with Manual Reset, 12V- 48VDC, Waterproof (100A) https://amzn.to/3rjZYDP

Above are a few we use. The sizes and how many you need depends on your particular system.

Other items you will need on hand to make connections

Glarks 300pcs 22-16 16-14 12-10 Gauge Nylon Fully Insulated Male/Female Spade Quick Splice Wire Disconnect Electrical Insulated Crimp Terminals Connectors Assortment Kit https://amzn.to/2OTsmzD

Wire Lugs Ring Terminal Connectors AWG8-2 Ends Heavy Duty for Battery Cable Lug tinned Copper Tubular Wire Electrical Eyelets Terminal 12Size 120PCS with 3:1 Dual Wall Adhesive Heat Shrink https://amzn.to/2OVXz5g

Hammer Battery Lug Crimping Tool for 8, 6, 4, 2, 1/0, 2/0 American Wire Gauge (AWG) Wire and Cable https://amzn.to/3rfvKld

100FT 14 Gauge 2pin 2 Color Red Black Cable Hookup Electrical Wire LED Strips Extension Wire 12V/24V DC Cable, 14AWG Flexible Wire Extension Cord for LED Ribbon Lamp Tape Lighting https://amzn.to/3lNBPEk

4 Gauge 4 AWG 25 Feet Red + 25 Feet Black (50 Feet Total) Welding Battery Pure Copper Flexible Cable Wire – Car, Inverter, RV, Solar by WindyNation https://amzn.to/3tNm2by

ALOVECO LED RV Lights, 12V Led Lights Dimmable Camper Interior Lights 3000K Ultra-Thin RV Lights Interior Waterproof 12 Volt LED Ceiling Lights Motorhome Sailboat Yacht Case of 8 Packs https://amzn.to/3d3NACF

Ulincos Touch Switch UT19T1 Stepless Dimming Switch DC 6V to 24V Blue LED Suitable for 19mm 3/4″ Mounting Hole https://amzn.to/3chjjkX

HBOX Solar Panel Connector Y Branch Connector 1 to 4 Solar Connector Solar Cable Combiner – 1 Male to 4 Female(M/4F) and 1 Female to 4 Male(F/4M) Solar Panel Cables and Connectors (1 Pair 1Y4) https://amzn.to/31gZow5

BEP Battery Switches https://amzn.to/31f8GZm

Quick Charge 3.0 Cigarette Lighter Outlet Splitter, 12V USB Charger Waterproof Power Socket Adapter DIY Kit with Blue LED Dual USB Ports for Rocker Switch Panel on Car Boat Marine RV, etc https://amzn.to/3tQZVRG

Link Solar Weatherproof ABS Solar Double Cable Entry Gland for All Cable Types 2mm² to 6mm² for Solar Project on Rv, Campervan, Boat https://amzn.to/3tOvStD

Titan 11477 Ratcheting Wire Terminal Crimper Tool for Insulated Terminals, Fixed Jaw Crimper https://amzn.to/399JsAb

If you are going to add a 30amp service to your electrical here are the item we suggest:

3-Bank, 30-Amp (10-Amp Per Bank) Fully-Automatic Smart Marine Charger, 12V Onboard Battery Charger, Battery Maintainer and Battery Desulfator with Temperature Compensation https://amzn.to/3lTJYaE for lithium batteries

ProMariner 44020 ProSportHD Series Battery Charger – 20 Amp https://amzn.to/2PlvAeY for agm batteries

10/3 AWG Triplex AC Marine Wire – Tinned Copper Boat Cable – Made in The USA https://amzn.to/3sjFlZQ the size wire will depend on what you will be hooking up

Custom Cable Connection 16/3 SOOW 16 AWG 3 Conductor 600 Volt Portable Power Cable – 50 Foot Roll in a Bag https://amzn.to/3tNOKJo

Leisure RV 125V 30 AMP Power Plug Twist Lock Inlet with 3 Stainless Steel Pins, White https://amzn.to/3tR81d6

Square D by Schneider Electric QO2L30SCP QO 30 Amp 2-Space 2-Circuit Indoor Main Lug Load Center https://amzn.to/2P6voAp

15-Amp 1-Pole Plug-On Circuit Breaker https://amzn.to/3f8wjuX

20-Amp 1-Pole Plug Circuit Breaker, https://amzn.to/3rojnUk

30 amp female locking connector with LED Power Indicator https://amzn.to/3chl4OZ

You can choose a few different sources for back up power. The most popular is a generator. This option can be less convent. Generators tend to be noisy and not always welcome. Champion 4000-Watt RV Ready DH Series Open Frame Inverter with Quiet Technology https://amzn.to/3w3JXpl large size one like this. To smaller options – 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator w/Fuel Shut Off, CARB Compliant, Ultra Lightweight https://amzn.to/2P42Asf

We find staying parked in the sun gives us enough power for our needs. This way we are only drawing excess overnight from our batteries. Recharging again in the morning.

The links provided in this post will help you build your system. Links will bring you to our affiliate program. You many need more or less of our suggestions. If you would like Wicked Cool Vans to build your solar system send us an email wickedcoolvans@gmail.com

Shop hundreds of options for a solar system on our affiliate link https://amzn.to/2PsbAar

Posted on Leave a comment

Maine

Maine Lobster

Maine, the way life should be. True statement. Visit and explore. Beauty where ever your day takes you. From sea to mountains to the wonderful lakes. You could explore for years and never see the same thing twice.

One of Maines beautiful lighthouses

The coastline of Maine is something that never gets old. You are able to find quiet places just to soak up the view. Mainers are friendly outgoing folks. Be prepared to have a conversation with complete strangers passing by.

Don’t forget to get some tasty seafood. Our lunch this day came from the cutest ocean side restaurant. http://www.thelobshack.com The best seafood we have had in a long time.

Lake side is defiantly a breath of fresh air. More than 6000 lakes located in Maine you are sure to find a favorite. We personally live near Lake George. Lake George in Canaan Maine consist of 335 acres. With its tranquil surroundings you can swim, boat, fish or just lounge at the beach. Perfect place for a picnic. Lake George provides year round enjoyment.

Spend your day driving through the mountains with million dollar views. It is truly breathtaking at times. Tranquil places to stop on your journey. Just pull off the road. Many road side spaces available along your way and take that beautiful photo. Make memories that will fill your dreams.

Continue to follow our blog for more great places we visit in Maine. Stop by our online boutique at www.wickedcoolvans.shop/wicked-cool-vans-boutique/

Posted on Leave a comment

Van Plumbing

The thought of doing plumbing can be a scary thing. In a van build it is fairly easy to complete your own van plumbing. I am sure you can find plenty of  youtube videos. We use pex pipe and parts for our Wicked Cool Vans water systems. We plan to have all water components on one side of the van.

Lay out your plumbing supplies and plan for the best placement.

In the photo above we are making our plan. We will have the sink and all plumbing on the right side of this van. The hot water heater, pipes and pump all need a place. In this build we will be placing the diesel heater in a compartment behind the water system.

The thing we dislike the most is to start a project and not have all the parts on hand. Missing one part holds up the entire production. It is good to have a drawing of your plan. Nothing fancy, just a drawing of how you plan to place everything.

Nothing fancy just your vision in black and white.

We work as a team and it is easier to visualize this way. By the time we are done with the drawing we both have scribbled all over it. After we have a plan that will work we bring it to scale. One key to an entire build is proper planning.

Now build the cabinet. Here are a list of supplies we have on hand for plumbing.

https://amzn.to/39bxVjC 1/2 Inch PEX PIPE, Fitting ,Clamp Tool, Clamps Cutter Combo Kit

https://amzn.to/3lKbmHU 2 PIECES XFITTING HOT (RED) AND COLD (BLUE) OF 1/2″ PEX BRASS FULL PORT SHUT OFF BALL VALVE – 1/4″ TURN.  We have at least 4 sets of these on hand. It is a good idea to have shut offs if there is ever a leak you are able to keep it under control while you repair it.

https://amzn.to/3vY16Am 5 Plastic Poly Alloy 90 Degree Swivel Elbow Pex x FPT Barb Pipe Fitting, 1/2″ x 1/2″ 5 pack. You will need two packs at least

https://amzn.to/3f9Uidh 5 Plastic PEX Poly Alloy Tee Barb Pipe Fitting, 1/2”, White, 5 Pack you will need at least two 5 packs of these.

https://amzn.to/2P5tgcj 5 Plastic PEX Poly Alloy Straight Coupling Barb Pipe Fitting, 1/2”, White, 5 Pack

https://amzn.to/3f74PWB 5 Plastic PEX Poly Alloy 90 Degree Elbow Barb Pipe Fitting, 1/2”, White, 5 Pack, you will want a lot of these on hand. it helps you have a clean look to your plumbing. I would say have five or six 5 packs on hand.

https://amzn.to/3tNqRSc 5 Plastic Poly Alloy 90 Degree Elbow Pex x MPT Barb Pipe Fitting, 1/2” x 1/2”, White, 5 Pack

Pick the size of your tanks. We try to get the same size for both if it will fit into the plans of the build.

https://amzn.to/31aVTHq Lead Free White Poly Alloy Elbow with Pex to Female Threaded Fittings, 1/2 x 1/2

https://amzn.to/3d1FScq 40 Gallon Fresh Water Tank & Plumbing Kit RV Concession

https://amzn.to/3vY20Ng 13 Gallon Water Tank & Plumbing Kit

https://amzn.to/3siqzTd 7 Gallon Water Tank & Plumbing Kit

https://amzn.to/397wYbZ 20 Gallon Fresh Water Tank & Plumbing Kit RV Concession

https://amzn.to/3cV2pr6 Fresh Water Pump, 12 Volts, 3.5 Gallons Per Minute, 45 Psi

https://amzn.to/3lKTOeN 1/2″ Twist-On Pipe Strainer

https://amzn.to/3rihRCT White City Water Flange with 1/2″ MPT

https://amzn.to/3vVIBwz RV Outside Shower Valve Kit – 4 Inch Quick Connect Valve and RV Outdoor Shower Faucet in Black

https://amzn.to/3vUyGYb Quick Connect Hose Adapt

https://amzn.to/3rfh0TvHeavy Duty Coiled Water Hose RV Extension Coiled Hose Extender for Disconnect Valve, 15ft Spiral Hose

https://amzn.to/3faKdwE Theard Flex Seal Tape Waterproof Plumbers Plumbing White 1/2″ x 520 Inch

https://amzn.to/31aX5KU Bosch Electric Mini-Tank Water Heater Tronic 3000 T 4 gallon – Eliminate Time for Hot Water – Shelf, Wall or Floor Mounted

Water pump with the tank under.

Now you have a list of items you will need. Find us on facebook at http://www.WickedCoolVans.com

We post pictures often. Send us an email at wickedcoolvans@gmail.com if you have questions. Make sure to check out other pages or our current blogs at www.wickedcoolvans.shop

Fresh water intake, outdoor shower and diesel heater tank.

Posted on Leave a comment

Holes in Your Van

You just brought your new van home. The first thing in a build is to put holes in your new van for windows, vents, air conditioners, heaters any outer device you are planing in your build. This requires cutting a big ole hole in your new van. A scary thing. No turning back now.

Hole in a new van for our clients Fresair cooling machine.

Most items you will be installing will have a template. The key is to make sue where you are cutting does not have any structural beams in the place you would like your new product. At times you may have to place the new item in a different place. Research is important. Reading the description and measure for placement ahead of time to make sure your vision can be accomplished. The reason why these items must be installed first.

No template with this window.

You have to be prepared for the item to come without a template. The cardboard box it came in will work. Read the instructions and watch a video on installation. This way you can get tips on what not to do. A lot of videos will share their mistakes. That way you don’t make the same ones. One thing we always do is make a practice cut from our template. We will take a piece of scrap wood. Trace out our template on it. Make the cut. Fit the item in the cut hole to make sure your template is spot on.

We make sure the area is clean and free of any debris. Check you are not placing it where you will interfere with a structural component. Measure many times. You will want to make sure you are placing the hole level and even. Draw your outline. Step away. Make sure it looks right. Take some final measurements. After the outline we always place tape on the outer side of our outline. This helps prevent your tool from making scrapes on outside of your cut.

Make sure you have a new blade for your saw. This will insure a clean cut. After the cut you will need to file the edges and paint with primer. This helps avoid rust from exposed metal.

Metal Primer then paint will help prevent rust.

After the paint dries dry fit your item. If all looks good you can start your placement. Butyl seal tape on the edge of the item before we do the final screw in. Here is a link to some on Amazon https://amzn.to/2OVatR2 the butyl seal tape is a great thing to have on hand for your build. If it is an item on your roof you will want lap sealant on hand as well. https://amzn.to/39cEhzf Here is the lap sealant we recommend. The final step is to secure your item into place. Make sure you are plumb and level. It wasn’t that bad was it?

Here is a list of item I would have on hand for putting holes in your van:

Jig Saw https://amzn.to/3sislnl make sure you have new blades

Butyl Seal Tape https://amzn.to/39d7xpB

Lap sealant if its on your roof https://amzn.to/39sOeJh

Paint Tape https://amzn.to/3cgN3hG

Sharp Marker https://amzn.to/3sknHVA

Metal File https://amzn.to/397z2kf

Primer Paint https://amzn.to/3rhFlYX

Metal Paint https://amzn.to/31ceUtd

Tape Measure https://amzn.to/3fbXipo

Rubbing Alcohol https://amzn.to/39dXqAO

Emails are welcome if your have any further questions check out other blogs at www.Wickedcoolvans.shop you will find more pictures and videos at www.wickedcoolvans.com

Shop our affiliate program 24/7 https://amzn.to/2Pp1A1E

Posted on Leave a comment

table saw

Tools needed for your van build.

What tools do you absolutely need to build a van yourself?

We have a few suggestions that will make your life a lot easier.

Tools that we would not build a van without.

Makita SP6000J1 6-1/2 Inch Plunge Circular Saw Kit, with Stackable Tool Case and 55 Inch Guide Rail https://amzn.to/3caBf0e just click the link to find it on Amazon

number one tool in van building

The circular saw makes all the cuts square, fast and easy. Always follow the rule measure twice cut once. Most of the time we measure four times, write it down and always double check before we cut. No need to waste wood, time or money.

CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure, Self-Lock, 25-Foot https://amzn.to/3tJY40L click the link for our favorite one. This one not only is self locking it gives you the fraction numbers. We find that real helpful.

Kreg R3 Master System With Classic Clamp https://amzn.to/3f1JvBP click the link for the one we use. The Pocket hole jig system for do-it-yourselfers. This helps with cabinet making.

Corner Clamp,AFAKE 90 Degree Right Angle Clamp for Woodworking,Aluminum Alloy Body,Adjustable Swing Jaw,Carbon Steel Threaded Rod Wood Working Jigs for Metal Welding,Photo Frame,Cabinet,Drawer https://amzn.to/3sfOrGM click the link to check it out. Keeping your cabinets square while you put in your screws makes you feel like you have an extra set of hands.

Makita JV0600K Top Handle Jig Saw, with Tool Case,Teal https://amzn.to/2NMWf44 click the link to the left. You can get a cheap one of these but if you are considering putting in windows or making precise cuts you will want a quality jig saw.

Milwaukee 21 Piece Bi-Metal All Purpose Hole Saw Kit With Case https://amzn.to/398ldCp click the link for the set we use. Building a van you make lots of holes. This kit is good for both wood and metal hole cutting.

Ryobi 12-Volt Lithium-Ion 3/8 in. Cordless Drill/Driver Kit-HJP004L https://amzn.to/3lDzdsV click the link for the one we use. We have two always by our side. This will save time from changing from drilling bits to screwing bits.

BOSTITCH Nail Gun, Brad Nailer, Smart Point, 18GA  https://amzn.to/3cYwK8d click the link to shop for it on amazon. A brad nail gun is a must have for the areas you don’t want a screw showing. You can build without one but you will be glad you have it.

BOSTITCH Air Compressor Kit, Oil-Free, 6 Gallon, 150 PSI https://amzn.to/3d35Nk6 link to purchase on amazon. You will need an air compressor to use the nail gun above. The compressor comes in handy to blow the saw dust off of your work. This we use everyday.

Bosch 1617EVSPK Wood Router Tool Combo Kit – 2.25 Horsepower Plunge Router & Fixed Base Router Kit with a Variable Speed 12 Amp Motor https://amzn.to/3d1egnA link to purchase on amazon. The router is used often in our Wicked Cool Vans build. You will find both the plunge and fixed base useful.

If you are interested in more tool suggestions send us and email. We will gladly help you set up your shop for a van build. If you do not want to spend money on all these tools that is fine. Just hire Wicked Cool Vans for your van build.

*links above are a part of an associate program

Posted on Leave a comment

#Vanlife

Peek inside a Wicked Cool Van

#VanLife

What do you need for your adventures? Choosing to live a minimalist lifestyle can have some challenges. You must take a look at things you use everyday. Then ask, do I need this to make me happy? Then you realize we tend to clutter our lives with things. Things that we definitely don’t need. Things that we can live without. I like to put those things in a box. Store it away. See how long I can go without wanting it. This helps decide what is your real needs.

Van life helps you see more of what is important in your life. Taking out the clutter, leaves so much room. Room for freedom. Freedom to go, make those dreams come true.

Maine and some of its beauty

You don’t have to go far. You will be surprised what is in your own backyard. No need to spend hours, money and time seeking out wicked cool places. Seek places around you that you have never been. It’s a great way to start #vanlife.

Posted on Leave a comment

Small Business

We get asked often how to make money while living in a van. Our Wicked Cool Van helps us promote our small businesses. The van is often used for business events on the road.

The love of travel has inspired the Bradley Family into #Vanlife Join us as we build conversion vans and share with others.
Our Wicked Cool Van is used as a Mobile Boutique during our travels. Take a moment and check out our websites of the products we offer:
UnicornRV Check out all of our products in one place. We are Lularoe Retailers providing the latest style & fashion with clothing.
Totes4u Your Thirty-one Gifts Consultant, Totes, Bags and many storage solution products
http://www.CleanWithKim.com Norwex environmentally friendly cleaning and healthy living products
Maine Vinyl Company Vinyl products & Gifts, custom vinyl decals, clothing and accessories
Thanks for your support in our small businesses
Kimberly & Russell Bradley

A local Craft Vendor event in Maine