By Cheri Sicard
In the video below, we join Bob Wells of Cheap RV Living (one of the winners of our 2024 RV video awards) for a tour of a unique van conversion with a 12-volt mini split heating and cooling system, among other interesting features.
The van’s owner, Kirk, joins Bob to show off his innovatively designed DIY RV. He’s had some practice. Kirk has built three different RVs in the five years he has been living on the road. In addition, the former chef now makes his living restoring old vehicles while living his dream lifestyle of being a nomad.
Kirk built his RV in a 1995 one-ton Dodge B3500 van. He acquired the van with the high top already in place and started by making the used vehicle mechanically strong.
He added lots of great features, including:
• 1,500 watts of solar
• 500 amp hours of battery
• LED lighting
• 75 gallons fresh water
• Bluetooth sound system
• Backup camera
• On-demand water heater
• Diesel interior heater
Plus, he added a 12-volt mini split heating and cooling system. I had not previously heard of this, but with as much solar power as Kirk has, why not? Although, it does not draw nearly as much power as I would have thought.
You must watch the video to see the ingenious bed setup, how it unfolds and folds, and how the space can be used in both states. I could describe it, but I would not do it justice; you just have to see it in action at point 8:50 in the video.
Unfortunately, the video has been disabled when played on other websites, so you’ll have to click here to watch it on YouTube.
What do you think of Kirk’s innovative van conversion and 12-volt mini split? Be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments below.
##RVDT2554
Thank you, Cheri! Very cool camper. Given the area he has, I understand the choices. I would opt for more floorspace and a wet bath. But adding a black tank and the wet bath itself would increase the complexity of the build and operation. Have a great day and safe travels! 🙂
Noted comment about his 12volt mini split being noisy, wish he would have turned it on so we could hear it running. I installed a 110volt 9000btu mini split on/in my Ford E350 and it’s whisper quiet, heat and cold. Like his, about 600 startup watts and then about 250 watts to run. I have 650 watts of solar panel so my 400ah of lithium batteries are charging while also running the mini split on a full sun day when it’s necessary. I don’t understand why the RV industry hasn’t taken on the mini splits, so much better in every respect. Nice concept on his bed setup. 6’1″ standing height in mine, fully insulated.