The Camper Van Conversion
The fourth (and final!) version - 2020
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Why?
Jean’s arthritis was getting worse and she was finding the futons were getting increasingly uncomfortable. Also, to be fair, I was (am!) not a nimble as in previous years and getting in and out of the bunk was becoming more of a challenge.
In October of 2019 we decided to give it a final try in advance of joining the Hymer sub-group. After several encounters with land rover admirers I realised I could not face parting with the 127.
The only choice was, in effect, a complete refurb.
As it was, October 2019, and as it is, October 2020.
A lot of thinking followed before all the existing furniture was stripped out. The best (i.e. most comfortable) solution seemed likely to be two (almost) full size single beds. I didn’t want to spend too much so I sourced most parts from eBay auctions. I had decided to opt for caravan mattresses that double up for seating and got a full set in a decent state for about £40, and not too far off to collect.
The sink/drainer and four burner hob were replaced by a small combined single burner/sink unit and a microwave oven, that I happened to have surplus to requirements. In recent trips, mainly to Spain, we have nearly always taken advantage of camp sites with cafes or restaurants and cooking has been minimal; sadly time has caught up with us and our years of expedition/adventure holidays are now effectively over. The microwave by-the-way is a standard ~1 kilowatt unit intended to be powered mainly from a mains hook-up but it works OK using the 1.5kw inverter driven from the two 12V leisure batteries (and with the engine running!) if you want a quick cup of coffee and can't be bothered to put the kettle on!
Click on the images below
for a bigger picture.
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As is 2020
The galley.
Toilet, fridge, table stowed
and a bit of storage.
Table folded out.
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I retained the bunk bed
but now a bit narrower.
The cushions also convert
to a luxurious king size.
Under seat storage
The position of the toilet and water heater was fixed so I had to design the seating/bed arrangement around them. One of the single beds is consequently about six inches shorter than the other; not a problem. I also retained the single bunk, as it was as easy to keep it as remove it, but it is now a bit narrower. The cushions also convert to a luxury king size double beds and you still have access to the galley, for that morning cuppa, and the toilet.
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Water strorage, tool box
and heater to left (enclosed).
Diesel space heater with cover off.
Jerry can stowage replaced
by grey water tank.
Electrics
Storage under the seats is more than enough (and low down) and much the same both sides. I bought plastic boxes (eBay) that are convenient and fit neatly in the space. The jerry can storage, under the drivers seat, was used to fit a grey water storage tank. The electrics had to be revised and this is still 'work in progress'.