For a long while now I have been thinking about setting up a high roof style van as the ultimate family mover with seating and sleeping for four or five. The Weekender Van Life Family Friendly Promaster Conversion Van. Narrowing down the model of the van was simple when I think back, but I spent so much time researching and looking that it could be considered the hardest decision of the build. I won’t bore you with the selection process as everyone has different criteria, so long story short I will soon put in an order for a new from the factory 2018 RAM PROMASTER 1500 HIGH ROOF 136 IN. WB in my preferred color, GRANITE CRYSTAL METALLIC. In this post I will outline all the major, must have components of my build.
Weekender Van Life Family Friendly Promaster Conversion Van.
2018 RAM PROMASTER 1500 HIGH ROOF 136 IN. WB
There are extensive options available when you order from the factory. Some options available are perfect for a Promaster Conversion Van. You can see, I have a picture of the build sheet with my selected options below. A local dealer had a van with some of the same options as I ordered, check out the sneak peek.
Promaster Conversion Van – Middle Row Seating
Scopema RIB Altair 3P Motorhome-Bench Seat
One of the must haves for this Promaster Conversion Van is seating for five. After researching the Canadian availability of different seating options, the first item of business will be the addition of one Scopema RIB Altair 3P 3 person 1300mm model. The van interior will be based around this unique seat that quickly folds into a bed.
Come back and check out the full detailed unboxing and initial review post once the seat is ordered and delivered. Update: The seat has been delivered……. And, installed!
Promaster Conversion Van – Windows
CR Laurence Vented Drivers Side Front Panel
After reading about the CR Laurence windows having problems when being installed in the sliding door I decided to get factory glass in the sliding door and get the aftermarket CRL OEM Design ‘All-glass’ Look Fixed Window 2014-2017 Ram Promaster Van Driver Side Front T-vent Window 136” & 159” Wheelbase Only FW392L for the drivers side front panel. The van will also be ordered with factory glass in the two rear doors. Check out the install of this window.
Promaster Conversion Van – Ventilation
MAXXAIR MAXXFAN Deluxe 7500K
Good ventilation is the key to comfort and reduced moisture build up, because of this, the Maxxair Maxxfan Deluxe 7500K is at the top of the list for major components. This fan has the ability to run while it is raining, it has 10 speeds and can run as a supply or exhaust fan, all of these points make it the perfect choice. Maxxair Fan MAXXFAN Deluxe Product Unboxing Initial Review
Heat
Eberspacher Airtronic B4 (Petrol) 12v (4kW) Heater
I debated three different fuel sources for heat in the van, reviewing the option of a separate tank for either diesel or propane. In the end, I have decided to go with the Espar Eberspacher Airtronic B4 (Petrol) 12v (4kW) Heater. Also, not having to worry about filling up propane or installing a diesel tank will save so much time and hassle. Update: We have purchased a Chinese copy to try out. This Gasoline Parking Heater Installation went smoothly and is working great!
Power Storage & Systems
VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Battery
Because I plan on undercarriage mounting my auxiliary batteries, to maximize my storage capacity and still have manageable weight. I have chosen to use two VMAXTANKS 6 Volt 225Ah AGM Batteries in series. I don’t plan on running any high demand appliances, the refrigerator will be the biggest load. This will be plenty of capacity for my needs.
Progressive Dynamics PD9130 – 30 Amp Electronic Power Converter
If I am near shore power and need to top-up my power level without running the motor. I will be able to plug in the Progressive Dynamics PD9130 – 30 Amp Electronic Power Converter. I had a good experience with this product from a previous project, this is a well built and reliable product.
1000 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter
I don’t have plans for any 120v appliances right now but it will be convenient to have a small capacity of 120 available. Mabey to charge a laptop or other small 120v appliance. To facilitate this I will install the Motomaster Inverter from Canadian Tire, I had this unit installed in a previous project and seemed to work well, here is an option from amazon.com that would be a good cross.
Refrigeration
Dometic CF-025DC Portable Freezer/Refrigerator Slim/Tall, Gray
This portable fridge is a little beast! I have used one of these for the last five summers. Check out my review. Not having to worry about ice is the best thing. The 25L model is on the smaller side, so it takes a little storage organization. For this Promaster Conversion Van, I will more than likely upgrade to a bigger model in the future.
To summarise: Here is the preliminary list of the components we plan to install in our new Promaster weekender van conversion.
Scopema RIB Altair 3P Motorhome-Bench Seat
Windows and Powered Ventilation
- Van Conversion Windows
- CRL Van Window Installation
- Van Conversion Fan Vent Selection Guide
- Maxxair Fan Unboxing
Camper Van Heater
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Also, check back later for more updates and for tips and tricks to help you with a build of your own.
And always, take the road less traveled!
Weekender Van Life – Van Life Blog – weekendervanlife.com
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