My next new build is about to start - V3 Explorer - Feedback from the group needed

[ski_bike_camp]

thanks, I've been following along…DJ and crew do great work, I'm sure you will be happy with it all…i know i was.

cheers! look forward to seeing it all together. i may pop down and check out the truck while it is his shop.

You should definitely swing by. Take some pictures (and post). I know Todd & Cody have been showing it off.

 

[ski_bike_camp]

How do you like this twist/flex. Flares are on and looking just about right.

The truck arrives in Breckenridge end of this month. Can't wait!
_

 

[java]

Looks great!!

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[ski_bike_camp]

Easter weekend and I had to rally and get a couple fiddly jobs done

The cassette toilet I bought online didn't come with all the mounting brackets (or instructions), Bummer! So I had to spend some time figuring it all out and then fabricate something. The water source & power will run under the teak grate (posted earlier). You can see it on the floor. Yippee it's installed now

A lot of thinking and input went into how to store and manage clothes, laundry etc. Seems like we are always travelling with small duffels versus putting things in cupboards or cubbies. Plus, I am really working to ensure I do not create spaces to trap condensation. I came up with racks. Measured to specifically fit two average small size duffels (12"x24") lengthwise on each side. I got a killer deal on four matching Oakley roll-top duffel packs online. There will also be additional space under the racks and on each side of the queen mattress for more. If we still run out of space, I might have to leave the kids at home

This week is hopefully a big one. We hope to get all the roof slats installed up on the cedar rafters.
Stay tuned ...

 

[java]

Oh I like the baskets! I might have to steal that. Looks light weight too.

Adding more insulation to the ceiling?

 

[ski_bike_camp]

Oh I like the baskets! I might have to steal that. Looks light weight too.

Adding more insulation to the ceiling?

I am not adding insulation in the ceiling. The slats are 1.75" x 3/16" ash painted white. They are being put up with a 3/16" gap in between. The idea is to look like the ceiling in a fine yacht while letting air circulate around. Again to minimize any spaces that could hold condensation and possible mildew. But still look killer. It also hides all my wiring etc.

We've all been in older boats or campers that have "that" smell. Not mine, I hope.

 

[java]

I am not adding insulation in the ceiling. The slats are 1.75" x 3/16" ash painted white. They are being put up with a 3/16" gap in between. The idea is to look like the ceiling in a fine yacht while letting air circulate around. Again to minimize any spaces that could hold condensation and possible mildew. But still look killer. It also hides all my wiring etc.

We've all been in older boats or campers that have "that" smell. Not mine, I hope.

Ah that makes perfect sense. I bet that will look slick. And yes I totally understand trying to mitigate moisture, its such a small space it builds up crazy fast. I usually end up leaking the roof vents open all the time, I have 3 of us and 2 big dogs, it gets moist on the inside in a hurry.

 

[ski_bike_camp]

Some truck eye candy ...

Thanks to the DK Diesel boys. The switch panel looks totally OEM.

 

[Hillbilly Heaven]

Love those switches!

 

[ski_bike_camp]

Pictures of the cieling ...

Its not done yet, but you get the idea. Painted white in the main cabin and left clear in the head. Very yachtie don't you think.


The stainless bar is to hang wet clothes after sailing or skiing. The bathroom has an electric fan to the outside and also heat at the floor. I should therefore have dry clothes by morning.

The dark strip down the middle is a piece of the African teak that I have been using. Its just an accent.

 

[Sixinarow]

Looks great! I may have to see if you're free this summer and I'll come up from Denver to see it in person!

I have to ask. How close to your original budget of $150k are you? You originally planned to buy a used truck and now have a highly modified brand new truck. That's more than half of the $150k at least.

 

[ski_bike_camp]

Looks great! I may have to see if you're free this summer and I'll come up from Denver to see it in person!

I have to ask. How close to your original budget of $150k are you? You originally planned to buy a used truck and now have a highly modified brand new truck. That's more than half of the $150k at least.

@Six,

Like most DIY projects, the budget got busted. Below I have tried to outline where I think I am now ...

Truck (new 2017) - $55K
Truck modifications and stretch $50K - I really didn't leave much out here. This thing is about as perfect as it could be.
Camper - $70K. This includes the carbon fiber box, all the interior build out, appliances, AC, windows, vents, full solar, batteries, lights & electrical etc.

I am likely to end up at $180K. Good thing I was able to sell my Sprinter for a good price. I couldn't have bought anything close to where I am ending up. I would love to show it to you sometime. I have already been asked if I would sell it.
_
Nothing added in for my time
_
Pictures of the truck in the next post.

 

[ski_bike_camp]

Truck reveal from the Todd & DJ at DK Diesel ...

 

[java]

Looks awesome! Can't wait to see the box on it

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[ski_bike_camp]

Rear bumper