Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a camper different from an RV?
While RV is actually a technical and legal term it basically indicates a vehicle is equipped with many of the amenities commonly found in a home. Our fundamental problem with this is over time its become commonplace to bring all of the amenities of home with with you while you travel. In the RV world this often includes heated tile floors, china cabinets, sofas, recliners, and satellite television... washers and dryers, small bathtubs... While all these things have their place we believe that is.... at home. We affectionately refer to our builds as campers because of the thoughtful and specific omission of many of the amenities commonly included in RV's. The advantage is a much less complicated, much more reliable, and much more versatile machine.
Some of your builds look really simple, why?
Why thank you, we try very hard to keep things simple, both mechanically and visually. Its very easy to fall into the "more is better" trap, however we've found the more unnecessary components we can eliminate the more functional and reliable your vehicle becomes.
What are some things I should think about before having a camper built for me?
This is a great question. Try making a list of your top 10 "must haves" then think about why those items made it on your list. It’s also important to consider how you will be using the camper most of the time…
Why are some builds more expensive than others but look so similar?
This usually comes back to the complexity of the components and the finishes used. Just like a home there are lots and lots of things that you cannot see that can make a huge impact on cost and function. Electrical systems, hot water systems, and exterior accessories, for example.
Do you ever work on older vehicles?
Yes
Seems like you really like 4x4’s… why?
There are a lot of great platforms for your camper build, however most of our customers prefer a factory 4x4 Sprinter or AWD transit. these both give you peace of mind when the pavement ends and the fun begins!
Do you ever work on sprinters that aren't gray?
No... Just kidding.... sometimes.
Will you help me with only part of my build?
The DIY community is part of what makes the Van/Camper scene so vibrant and interesting. We are working on developing products to help support this community and encourage anyone who feels comfortable building something to give it a shot. If you are interested in having us help with a portion of your build we are happy to talk, however this is on a case by case basis and depends on the scope of work, what work has already been done, and our available capacity.
My RV is broken, can you fix it for me?
We avoid working on traditional RVs
Tell me about the components you use?
We love building with nice parts just as much as you will love using them. We take take pride in fabricating almost all the componets we use in house and work with a select industy partners including: Am Solar, Blue Sea Systems, Life BLue, Van Comnpas, just to name a few. What you will not find in our builds are 2nd rate materials like particle board laminated interior components, automotive capreting, or CPVC, as these were never intented for durability or a long service life.
Will you use spray foam insulation when you build my van?
Nope.
Where does the power come from in my van?
The answer to this question can be very short, or very.... very long. In a nutshell power can come from three places: Your vehicles alternator, Solar panels mounted to the roof of your van, or shore power.
I want a bathroom and shower in my van.
Just like the electrical system in your van this can be simple or complicated. Composting and cassette toilets are inexpensive and work great. Outside showers are also a great way to save space inside your van while eliminating a fair amount of plumbing and also the need for tanks to store waste water. Our shower enclosers and are all built from tig welded stainless steel to ensure that even after years of use you will not have to worry about cracked plastic or moisture damaged wood products.
Can I come visit your shop?
we ask that all shop visits are by appointment only.