Isuzu npr 4wd

[gator70]

Given that you are getting the habitat manufactured by someone (not a DIY build) I would take the simple option... ask the company as to how they recommend you lift the unit.
They should know better than anyone else.

On a side note... I see that this specific unit (which I assume is yours) is being built to LHD specifications, not Australian specifications, as you had mentioned previously.
That should definitely be seen as a positive.

Yes, LHD specs. I'm happy to say, much of the engineering and custom specifications is tailored to my requests.

As far as the supplier suggestions, they are ill equipped to suggest anything specific to the truck. Their factory uses two means of movement, specific to their needs. They have small strong disposable wheels for movement on the factory floor, and they use forklifts to load the habitat for shipment.

Beyond that they are ill equipped to suggest anything specific to the truck.

Many DIY builders use - (1) Cranes (2) Forklifts (3) Corner stands and drive under it

I asked this question to the forum, hoping to get feedback, as a means to capture good practise tips.

Anyone who has done this before, should have something to say. Or anyone who witnessed other companies in process of the work step, should have something to say.

 

[gator70]

The composite floor connection is now set in engineering and is built in production already.

Tonight I received confirmation.

The attachment to the sub frame is designed in CAD format.

Much stronger than what TC does. Yet this is for me and I'm sure it may not please others.

Everything has strengths and weaknesses.

In my rig there are three frames.

Frame as subfloor above composite floor
Frame as connection structure below composite floor
Traditional subframe, spring mounted to the truck frame

I've see a few Sprinter vans builds with a ruined floor due to a hidden water leak. In van builds when the floor is water damaged beyond repair, the main living compartment must be removed.

This will never happen with my engineering

Also most battery banks and converter sit on the floor. If there is a water leak this is a big problem. Mine is constructed 1 1/2" above the floor.

 

[gator70]

What's the opinion about a sink in the bathroom?

And how can this bathroom space be used for storage when not in use?

I've seen the new REVEL with some construction for removable bamboo shelves. (I expect theses are moisture resistant)

 

[Peter_n_Margaret]

What's the opinion about a sink in the bathroom?

Absolutely.


Cheers,
Peter
OKA196 motorhome

 

[gator70]

Additional progress

No ceiling fans installed, only two wall exhaust fans, due to full roof solar panel coverage
Exhaust fans ; One in bathroom, one across from kitchen. Exhaust fan above gas stove.
Sleeping area has large roof hatch window, with lights, bug screen and shade

Space set aside for Dometic RTX 2000 air conditioner unit over hall

 

[gator70]

Lets discuss nice features in the EarthRoamer or Patagonia that are unnecessary expenditures.

Some super singles and suspensions are overkill. Theses alternatives on other platforms can cost $20K less.

Do you need aluminum wheels? Can you use steel?

Real hardwood cabinets look beautiful, but do we need them?

Do you need leather seats in the truck?

The water purification systems are nice and expensive, just buy 5 gallons of drinking water by the bottle at wallmart.

Heating systems like aqua hot cost way more than other options,

Who can list more?

 

[SkiFreak]

We are all individuals... what you may consider to be unnecessary, others may consider as mandatory.
It's your build, so you can include or exclude whatever you want. It is irrelevant what others may think.

Personally, some of the things you have listed above I do not consider as unnecessary, but what the hell would I know?

 

[gator70]

We are all individuals... what you may consider to be unnecessary, others may consider as mandatory.
It's your build, so you can include or exclude whatever you want. It is irrelevant what others may think.

Personally, some of the things you have listed above I do not consider as unnecessary, but what the hell would I know?

I guess it is all about budget. If your funds are unlimited, by all means spend away.

Too many folks complain about the rigs that cost $350K-$500K, yet some can't compromise.

Stuff is not free.

 

[gator70]

How many 20lb propane tanks should I carry on a seven day cold weather trip?

(We have a propane two burner stove and a propane Truma style space heater / water heater)

Planning the rig for propane tank storage.

 

[gator70]

My habitat is ordered with huge rear storage box made from aluminum. Since it is attached to outside rear wall we have a steel frame underneath to support it.

(size 1600mm wide, 880mm high, 460mm deep)

Due to the huge size and made from aluminum sheet, I plan to do some interior retrofit. With aluminum tube inner frame, say 1 x 1 inch material. And build shelving. I want to line the aluminum sheet with hard foam sheet cut to size and glue this to the inner surface.

Any suggestions?

 

[SkiFreak]

Due to the huge size and made from aluminum sheet, I plan to do some interior retrofit. With aluminum tube inner frame, say 1 x 1 inch material. And build shelving. I want to line the aluminum sheet with hard foam sheet cut to size and glue this to the inner surface.

Any suggestions?

Why wouldn't you simply make the box from composite sheets?
Lighter, stronger and already insulated.

 

[gator70]

Why wouldn't you simply make the box from composite sheets?
Lighter, stronger and already insulated.

Seller had only two choices , steel or aluminum

Thanks for the comment

 

[gator70]

Who is an expert on composite panels?

How do I attach items to interior walls?

Like this

 

[Ferjablito]

You can first fix the aluminum U with a screw or rivet and glue the panel to the U with polymer

 

[Peter_n_Margaret]

​

How do I attach items to interior walls?

Glue on a plate with Sikaflex or similar and attach to the plate or glue it on directly if the area is large enough for the load.
The plan is to spread the load over a larger area.
This is a rough job in a storage box, but you get the idea. The connection in this case is a riv-nut in a piece of aluminium.

Cheers,
Peter
OKA196 motorhome