Sprinter/Van Wrap Idea

[tylerdurden]

A bit of backstory real fast.

I am a student photographer. When I graduate I have a plan to buy a Sprinter and convert it to a mobile workspace/home. I plan on living in the van for 2 years after school to offset its cost and construction. After that I will find more permanent living arrangements and keep the van for work and play.

I have been researching here and various other sites and compiling plans on how to do so without spending a ton as well as keeping the vehicle in more of a stealth operating order as not to draw a ton of attention to myself in the urban areas i will be parking/living in.

As I do not have plans to be traveling a ton. More like working in major cities for months at a time. So my issue becomes concealing the contents by keeping the outside looking like it belongs in a more industrial urban area. I have had several ideas on how to do so. Having custom vehicle magnents made with different made up business names/functions ect. but upon further consideration I felt that an observant eye or an authority might take this as threat or criminal activity. The last thing I want to do is draw attention from any form of law enforcement.

There is something to be said about the size and odd shape of the sprinter. I would normally go with something other than such a large vehicle but the photo gear I have to carry to be effective in business wouldnt allow a smaller vehicle. So now comes the task of making this vehicle blend.. I personally dont think that a bright white shiny van blends well anywhere. I also think that a black van draws uneeded attention like FBI style vehicles. And frankly I dont do color in that much of quantity.

So I started looking for ideas. I think I have found a reasonable solution. Or at least a great base/ awesome idea for other van/rv owners.

This artist http://www.kevincyr.net/
has an amazing talent. I have contacted him to see if he could produce a painting that would look semi realistic from a distance to "distress" the look of an otherwise new vehicle. Much like his work in this painting "Great Jones" which I have attached. I dont think the need for it to be extremely worn or derelict is what I would be looking for, just mildly.

Now if my idea is correct, myself or anyone could have work like this mans made into a wrap much like you see commercial business's using for advertisements. A really great idea for those of you who would want a look like this without actually messing up your paint!

Anyways thanks for reading and I look forward to any comments or ideas you have regarding this thread. Also if you love this mans work I encourage you to at least purchase a print from him if you have the means. It truly is amazing and inspiring.

 

[ersatzknarf]

This is a very interesting idea and I am all for stealthy !
The GXV campers have something like what you are talking about for decoration and even cover over the windows of the box. Your approach could allow for that, if you have any windows on the side. There are a number of commercial vehicles around these parts that have "wrap" over almost all surfaces; you see it on buses and delivery trucks and vans alike...

As for a new Sprinter, I think you might save a lot looking for a somewhat used one, perhaps ?

Finally, be sure to "de-chrome" as much as possible.

 

[tylerdurden]

Yes! I hate "chrome" anyways. Most of it is plastic anymore. Garbage! I dont plan on having any rear windows for security reasons. i had considered maybe a very narrow window on the side of the van by where I plan on having the bed. Maybe 2 feet long by 6 inches wide max for ventilation. Probably not though.

As far as the purchasing new goes. When it comes time I will decide. Relability and warranty's are a big issue for me. My mother works for Chrysler and deals with extended warranty's ect. So when the times comes we will see what is the most effective vehicle to purchase for the base of my project and not having to deal with a broken down vehicle when it is your home and business.

 

[ersatzknarf]

Glad we agree on that, although we are perhaps in the minority.
Understood about warranty and older vehicle issues. If you can get a new one (or if model year timing is right, an "old," brand new one - likely at a good savings), then that helps with the interest rate on the loan. (Probably a non-point, but I don't think Sprinters are available through Chrysler, any longer..., however, were it the case, your connection would get you much better pricing )
Agree on your minimal window idea for security. That could be located up as high as possible and it would (hopefully) be too narrow for a thief to use. There are quite a variety of sizes of Seitz windows that come in "slider" and "top-hinged" versions that might fit the requirement.

Yes! I hate "chrome" anyways.

 

[GhettoBago]

Anti chrome, CHECK!

Sounds like a cool idea you have going there man. To be able to veil a later model ride as an abused rig is certainly adding security. My first thought would be in the wheels department. Wheels tell a huge tale, black steelies would be in order I would think!

Second thought I had after reading your post would be putting a divide between the cabin & cargo, straight deadbolt & steel! You could even have a wrap done on that with a false scene of what you would see in such a work van. I remember (i think it was a-boy plumbing) used to have the 18 wheelers where the rear gate of the trailer had a wrap, pics of tools stacked up, honestly even up close it looked like they could fall right out it was such a good shot & print.

Last thought, I would imagine with technology where it is at this point that some company must make a vehicle alarm that can text message you when it's going off? So you can drop everything & high tail it back to the vehicle? If not, I think I now have a mission!:wings:


Love to stay up to date on where this all goes!

 

[tylerdurden]

Security is perhaps my biggest issue. The price of the camera equipment alone will justify some serious upgrades on this issue. Making the vehicle look "less desireable" is a big part of this plan. I dont care if i have to go around hitting this thing with a hammer myself!

 

[GhettoBago]

Doh! Looks like I won't be making my millions on that hair brain idea!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FkJkLSvquQ

 

[tylerdurden]

The divider is going to be one of my security steps. I plan on buying or custom fabricating a divider between the cabin and having locks welded on the rear inner doors and side sliding doors that prevent entry from the rear and sides other than the exterior locks of course. The idea being that once you leave for the day you can lock the rear door and side door from the inside, exit through the partition into the drivers cab, lock the partion, drive away to your non sleeping spot and then exit the vehicle having both exterior and interior locks. Sort of a "firewall" idea. I plan on installing Lo-Jack as well as keeping a GPS locator in my cases that I will keep the equipment in. Much like this http://www.zoombak.com/.

 

[NothingClever]

I strongly encourage you to research / contact Jack Dykinga.

I think you'll hit a jackpot for two things:

1) a cheaper, ready-made idea for stealth living quarters and

2) skilled mentorship for your photography career as well

 

[tylerdurden]

any chance you have a solid link for his living quarters philosophy? tons of links to sort through is a headache with google. and thanks for the info. this guy is awesome!

 

[wrcsixeight]

I happen to be living in my van right now, and have done so for many years, and I think there are some factors you have not considered on the urban boondocking thing.

1. It sucks. You are breaking the law in most places.
2. Trying to sleep inside with cars going by constantly, or even sporadically significantly reduces the quality of sleep.
3. You are always expecting 'The Knock' of either law enforcement, or an angry homeowner telling you to move on, or a criminal with sinister motives.
4. Unlevel parking. It affects ease of movement and quality of sleep
5. Constantly searching for a new spot, and trying to remain stealthy once there. Not moving around inside so that street lights, or your antenna do not reflect light, and wobble and give you away.
6. Remaining silent. Phone calls? Forget it.
7. Bathroom activities. The best and biggest Pee bottle still needs to be dumped, and the smell can knock you out in an enclosed space. I've never used a porta potty, but do not imagine emptying one is fun or convenient. Using public facilities is a last but necessary resort at times.
8. Climate control. An exhaust fan on the roof reduces the stealth factor, and fresh air has to be allowed to enter somewhere for there to be any recirculation. This equates to more noise transferring inside and out, and less security. In the winter, you sleep under a ton of blankets fully clothed, or keep your clothes under the sheets with you. The inside air gets very stale, and you can wake up with a headache.
9. Vanxiety. Even with all your stuff locked up, and hidden, whenever you are away from your home, there is the worry factor. I constantly have nightmares that I can't find my Van, or that it has been broken into, or I'm watching tattooed gang members driving it away while drinking my beer and laughing.
10. 'Down by the river' Jokes. People and friends might say they admire your lifestyle and freedom, but you become the guy who lives in his van. It is how people will refer to you. It does not matter if you have twice the intelligence, and prospects as someone else. The stigma of being the Guy who lives in his Van, will lead to bitterness, anger, self imposed isolation, and a general hatred of humanity, despite awareness of it and attempts to mitigate it.
11. Give up any prospects of a meaningful relationship with a woman. She could never impress her friends with you, will never think about staying with you while burbdocking. If you do find one granola enough to accept your lifestyle, can you accept hers?

The only reason I still live like this is because I have a level parking spot on private property in a safe neighborhood. I have access to my own shower and bathroom, and this negates most of the inconveniences of this lifestyle.
But there is still the social stigma, and Vanxiety when parking elsewhere.

If you are to remain in any one area, I urge you to seek a private secure parking spot. It makes a Huge difference. If You are just passing through an area, then it is easier to get away with this lifestyle, but you are still considered an undesirable, no matter your motives and education.

 

[tylerdurden]

Dude great response. One I am largely a singular social person anyways. I spend most of my time out photographing or at home in room on internet with headphones on.I also am not really to worried about the van guy stigma, I would feel worse being called "the guy who spent 900 dollars on a studio apartment and had nothing to show for it after two years" guy. Two I have considered the sound situation and believe the acoustics can be dealt with rather easily with sound dampening/insulation. I have and currently do live on one of the busiest streets in Chicago, if you have an intimate conversation within 40 feet of my front door I can hear what you're saying. Its loud 24/7 I have actually grown fond of it. Three I will most likely have more permanent parking places for the longer lengths of stay with power hook ups ect. I also plan on bringing a bike and a secondary vehicle like a small scooter to get around town on. I often bike around 5-15 miles a day as is.

Okay enough with the numbers. As far as the uneven parking thing goes I cant imagine with the ridiculous wheelbase of the sprinter that there should be too much extra movement. I also am going to be living in a large industrail space later this year in which I hope to build a near scale space to work out my movement and routines within such a space. I never thought of the paint or antenna or lights being reflective. Perhaps a nice flat paint job or if I do the wrap making it have a non reflective element will help. At the risk of sounding odd I frequently pee in bottles now due to my living situation. Having one bathroom with 3 other people makes for desperate times!

Oh I forgot to note, I already have a strong distaste for humanity! This is why I plan to further alienate myself by living in a van! A relationship?! Dear god man what do you think I am made of money? Haha I will have plenty of time to worry about women once I have an established career in photography, until then they can just fantasize about me. To be honest I think once all this gets started and I being to work abroad I may end up finding a sweet *** job somewhere and finding an apartment there. I mean I can always keep the van and get a place elsewhere, its not like I would be forbidden to have a normal home.

Thanks for your reply. I can only learn from others until I do.

 

[wrcsixeight]

I mean I can always keep the van and get a place elsewhere, its not like I would be forbidden to have a normal home.

Myself, being a nihilistic misanthrope, really cannot concern myself with the opinions of others.

But,

A problem lies within the fact that the longer one isolates oneself, the longer one lives outside the norm, these others might just decide, if they are in a position to do so, to negatively effect your pursuits.

For example, I have not rented anything on the books for over 12 years.

If I do decide to rent again, what can I put on an application? Try explaining that you've been travelling from a Van for over a decade and see where that gets you. At best your labeled a free spirit, most likely you are labeled an undesirable, unstable vagrant.

It's not too hard to dismiss the Stigma of being the' Down by the river' guy yourself, until one is forced into a position where others can sneer and judge from their High Horse Prisons.

Ducking Fouchbags!!
Now where's that river.:victory:

 

[HINO SG]

I happen to be living in my van right now, and have done so for many years, and I think there are some factors you have not considered on the urban boondocking thing.

1. It sucks. You are breaking the law in most places.
2. Trying to sleep inside with cars going by constantly, or even sporadically significantly reduces the quality of sleep.
3. You are always expecting 'The Knock' of either law enforcement, or an angry homeowner telling you to move on, or a criminal with sinister motives.
4. Unlevel parking. It affects ease of movement and quality of sleep
5. Constantly searching for a new spot, and trying to remain stealthy once there. Not moving around inside so that street lights, or your antenna do not reflect light, and wobble and give you away.
6. Remaining silent. Phone calls? Forget it.
7. Bathroom activities. The best and biggest Pee bottle still needs to be dumped, and the smell can knock you out in an enclosed space. I've never used a porta potty, but do not imagine emptying one is fun or convenient. Using public facilities is a last but necessary resort at times.
8. Climate control. An exhaust fan on the roof reduces the stealth factor, and fresh air has to be allowed to enter somewhere for there to be any recirculation. This equates to more noise transferring inside and out, and less security. In the winter, you sleep under a ton of blankets fully clothed, or keep your clothes under the sheets with you. The inside air gets very stale, and you can wake up with a headache.
9. Vanxiety. Even with all your stuff locked up, and hidden, whenever you are away from your home, there is the worry factor. I constantly have nightmares that I can't find my Van, or that it has been broken into, or I'm watching tattooed gang members driving it away while drinking my beer and laughing.
10. 'Down by the river' Jokes. People and friends might say they admire your lifestyle and freedom, but you become the guy who lives in his van. It is how people will refer to you. It does not matter if you have twice the intelligence, and prospects as someone else. The stigma of being the Guy who lives in his Van, will lead to bitterness, anger, self imposed isolation, and a general hatred of humanity, despite awareness of it and attempts to mitigate it.
11. Give up any prospects of a meaningful relationship with a woman. She could never impress her friends with you, will never think about staying with you while burbdocking. If you do find one granola enough to accept your lifestyle, can you accept hers?

The only reason I still live like this is because I have a level parking spot on private property in a safe neighborhood. I have access to my own shower and bathroom, and this negates most of the inconveniences of this lifestyle.
But there is still the social stigma, and Vanxiety when parking elsewhere.

If you are to remain in any one area, I urge you to seek a private secure parking spot. It makes a Huge difference. If You are just passing through an area, then it is easier to get away with this lifestyle, but you are still considered an undesirable, no matter your motives and education.

99% accurate, in my opinion, yet I would say it can be worthwhile. just takes the right attitude & people skills. Getting a ministorage locker in the place your'e living can be a huge help- even the smallest have almost as much room as the interior of a van and leases are usually month to month.
The ministorage especially helps keep valuables (tools, etc.) in a less vulnerable place.

A good battery bank is a must, usually not too hard to rotate the batteries out one at a time to charge them at work or a friend's house and/or solar.


The part about it being illegal in most places does really truly suck.
I've had my van tagged by graffiti "artists" while I was inside (unknown to them). Hard to justify the risk of confronting a bunch of probably-harmless but scruffy kids by yourself, and hard to come up with a explanation for the circumstances after calling the police. 4 out of the 5 times I've had to deal with the police they were annoyed but ultimately indifferent; then there was the time they came back the next day when I was gone and got me on a trumped-up "Abandoned Vehicle" ticket.
$225 to get truck back from impound. Cost of doing business, I guess.

 

[UHAULER]

I don't see a problem with a plain white sprinter in an urban area, in fact most people wouldn't give them a second look. If you wanted to you might put a ficticious buisiness name on the side with a phone # that goes straight to a voicemail.