I love this! Forgot to show the little table though!

You do not find many mini vans like a Promaster City able to have a full counter with a sink and still get a decent size bed into it. Very nice and a great job building this small little beauty out.

Even four years later, in February 2023 now, there still remains a strong demand for these wonderful Promaster City vans. What a crying shame the maker has cancelled this fine product.

I have a Promaster City as my locksmith van. I absolutely love it! I chose it because if the business ever goes under or when I retire, the van will be converted like this one! Great video!

Simple and nice, the only thing that I would add is port-a-potty with the bed higher so it would fit under it.

Cascade campers just converted my promaster city and they did an amazing job! I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting this setup. Really great build quality and design. And the crew who works on your van are the same people who founded the company. They put their heart and soul into these vans and it shows. I already want a second one.

@nikkinieyoga

4 жыл бұрын

Ryan thanks for sharing! I’m getting my van converted by them in May! So stoked!

@Ryan-ug9jm

4 жыл бұрын

@@nikkinieyoga Hey there! I was van #89! These guys will really take care of you and make you feel welcome. I think you will be impressed it's a great design. I have no regrets choosing them at all they did a great job and are really great people! Have fun!

@mattstaten1271

3 жыл бұрын

Can you fit a portable toilet under the bed?

@Ryan-ug9jm

3 жыл бұрын

@@mattstaten1271 no, there's not enough space under the bed. I purchased a folding toilet that can be stored behind the couch/bed

@marlonkannon9986

2 жыл бұрын

You all prolly dont care at all but does someone know a way to log back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly lost the login password. I love any help you can give me

An excellent conversion. One of the best designs I've seen.

Nice job. I’m in the researching phase and weighing pros and cons of all the options. I really like these little vans.

This is one of the nicest builds I've seen. And the best part is it looks very affordable! Definitely worth considering! I really like the vent fan.

@RicardoRoams

6 жыл бұрын

Update - I checked the Cascade Camper website and they have raised the price of their basic camper conversion by $1,000! It went from $6,000 to $7,000. That's an awfully big price increase! I like the efficient design but that's too much. I'm no longer interested.

Absolutely fantastic. Great design and execution.

Thanks for this video! I am having them convert my promaster next year.

Just heard about Zach and his sponsorship on the Tiny House Podcast. Nicely done!

Excellent demo!

That guy is really good at giving tours and explaining.

Dang that's efficient for a small van! Impressive!

Totally awesome build

by far the cleanest looking camper setup I've seen for these small Van's. I wonder if a kit is available for a transit connect

so perfect. I love this so much.

Nice build!

Awesome was looking at one today

.......very nice........curtian behind front seats needs design attention.......love this van build.........smile.

Looking to use the same vehicle, since it's the largest cargo of these small city vans - bigger than the Ford version or Nissan... Like the water setup; hadn't seen a submersible for drinking water quality. Also totally agree water should be accesible from the outside to simplify filling (or emptying if using gray water which you didn't mention). The plastic edge banding looks great, and certainly saved time since you likely have a router set up to just run everything past before tapping it in. Used it for some custom shelving in my music room and it's amazing that you can get it in so many colors. Looking to integrate a Lagun Table into my setup so that you can bring food or a laptop closer, yet move it out of the way if need be. Great build tho, closest I've seen to what I want to build!

I love it! Simple but beautiful .

This van conversion rocks and is affordable.

Very nice and stealthy....would love to see him do a sprinter Van conversion....thanks for sharing..... from Houston Texas

Cascade's power setup is inadequate.

Nice little but comfortable van.

So handsome....! The van too.

What is the brand for the sink?? I love that variable flow

great video,thanks

Thanks so much this gave tons of ideas!!! I know stealth is rather important on these kinds of vans, but for the sake of my budget, pannel health, and just lighting opinions. I would want hard pannels that lift off slightly from the roof to provide airflow underneath and a roof sky light fan so I could actually have sun light from above come through the van. Overall the pannels would be cheaper and the sky light a greater value to me then the stealth factor.

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

Glad it helped! Airflow is indeed a challenge, check out my video on CO2. Sun would be sweet, I wonder if you can keep stealth by running optical fiber or something.

I know Zack, he’s a rad dude!

Nice build and video. Saving it for when the time comes. Is the Promaster the van of choice for these types of builds?

What I like most on this conversion is the convertible collapsible bed system. Can anyone please point me towards some tutorial on this ... ?

I like it! Looks great, price is right. Im looking at the Ram and the Nissan Recon NV200 but that has a 4 to 6 months build turn around time! Add a poptop option, not for a top bed, but so I can stand up. Thank you.

I just subbed i like your really nice layout, I'm doing a truck bed. Will Ck out more of you stuff tomorrow 4 thumbs up !!!

When the motor is inside a doghouse (big bump next to the driver) the van temperature becomes critical at 70 degrees Fahrenheit or so. The muffler under the floor also caused hot floors. In Florida during summer/fall I had to stay out of the van for a half hour or more after a trip because the dog house and the floor were too hot. So, insulating the floor from heat from the road and muffler is also a good idea. The engine/muffler heat will also heat the metal sides of the van. So creating a thermos bottle to live in might be a good idea.

@Wize817

3 жыл бұрын

Motor is under the hood in this van so irrelevant, but good to know for other setups. Never thought having a motor under the passenger seat was a good idea!?

What brand and model was that fridge?

very nice man!

Why block the sliding door on the one side instead of splitting the bench seat back into two cushions?

The last bit about the logo and not getting questions asked was interesting to me. Almost like by being less "sneaky" and more upfront you're being more stealthy and people just seem to ignore the white van. I'm thinking of putting a plumbing logo on or something so people don't think twice about it, but also don't realize all the belongings of someone living on the road are in there.

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

Yes, definitely choose wisely, I've heard of people targeting pluming vans because copper pipes are worth a lot!

@brianmi40

5 жыл бұрын

Was thinking a “Solar consulting and troubleshooting company” so no one questions solar panel on the roof!

Great build. I'd like to see one with a pop top that would provide standing head room the length of the van (no upper bed). It would compromise stealth but it might be worth it.

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

Agreed, that's definitely something I keep on my wish list. I know Colorado Camper Van will do a pop top for around 10k, Roy King has one on his PMC: kzread.info/dash/bejne/dYmLyZZ6gdiyc5M.html

Can someone post some links for the parts to make that sink? Like the submersible pump and the faucet with the switch. Thanks

nice camper van kit

Where i can convert a van to be like this and how much it cost

I still really like the van where the guy put the porta potty in the center console and built a seat around it. That was genius. And no smell whatsoever.

@brianmi40

5 жыл бұрын

Way too small of a vehicle for that here. I have a Ram PMC like this doing a conversion and best looks like folding toilet chair with plastic bags and airtight storage box on hitch carrier until you can dump the bags, or even bury them with biodegradable bags. Chair will fold flat and stand behind passenger seat in mine. Most guys use a Dollar Store laundry soap bottle for pee since it doesn’t have fancy store brand our spout and yet seals well.

Really cool! These just kind of popped up on my radar so I haven’t actually got to look at one in person yet. About how long is the bed? I’m pretty tall so that’s the downside of a smaller van like this.

I was in for $6 but not $8. Cute set up, tho.

Well done 👍🙂

Hi Smart Van: Can you post a link to the clever water tank with integral pump, and also the water faucet with the switch to control the pump. I love this setup!

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

Hey Billder, I looked online but it seems like zach built that pump into a normal 5 gal plastic jerry can, you might be able to find the parts if you ask him on his website

nice built.i wanted to know if you did conversion for nissan nv2500?

Freakin awesome!!!

Is there a way to get to the fuel pump door with this conversion installed?

Nice setup! I'd like to do my own couch cushion, though, since I like a firm bed. Also, since the flexible panels don't last very long, I'm wondering how hard/messy/destructive to the paint it is to replace a glued panel.

@secondact7151

4 жыл бұрын

I wonder if the flexible panels don't last as long because people move them. This seems mounted so tight it may last just as long as a hard panel.

Do you do builds on vans that people already own?

I know this is an older post, but how tall are you Zack? Thanks for the great review!!

Awesome build, imagine that in a high top!!

@elhuyhuyhuy1822

4 жыл бұрын

I will build a camper like this ... when I have it ready I will upload the video to KZread

How much for that exact conversion?

How well do these vans handle cold weather environments / wet environments?

What’s the track system for the window curtains? Trying to find something similar to put in my van.

Did you make the bed or buy it?

How about a screen for the door opening?

Can you post a link to that fridge?

My promaster city has no rear speakers. I have heard that there's some outputs hidding some were in the van for rears speakers. Does anybody know were are they? Thanks.

What is the Brand/Model of that little fan? That's the one I want. Also....how my h dies it cost? Does the cap keep the rain from coming I inside? Thx.

Can someone help me out with the water pump tank idea he did. Like what pump and what is that little vent fan in the back? Thank you advance. I want to add this to my trailer.

Very nice 👌

What kind of vent fan is that

How do I reach you or learn more about products. I’m considering the short Ram promaster cargo. Love your solutions.

Awesome.

Does anybody know what kind of screws are in the wood paneling?

Amazing

this is simple and basic, but very well-crafted. and at an affordable price. i was wondering about grey water though. where does it go/get stored? and he's the first person i've heard who said to clean the solar panel. heck yes! i chuckled when he said he had a camper van in the parking lot ready to go after his high school graduation.

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

Grey water goes right out of a hose to the ground in the rear of the vehicle, it works at camp sites and while it's raining here. Zach has lots of awesome camper van stories! I may cut an extended interview later

@TariAkpodiete

6 жыл бұрын

i do think there should be a container option for the grey water. it's not always possible to stealth dump.

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

I bet Zach can add that in as custom work. I recall the original versions of the van had a grey water tank but he removed it at some point. It'll be a tradeoff with space or capacity.

@305dreamhonda

6 жыл бұрын

My westfalia is like that, not a problem most of the time, just have an awareness. Most of the time its not a problem, and super convenient.

@Artbox49

6 жыл бұрын

Tari Akpodiete Hi there, I agree that a small amount of grey waste isn't too much of a problem in that it's mostly washing up water or the dregs from a drink. Some people confuse grey and black waste. Completely different problem and the latter to be dealt with very carefully so as not to offend. 😊 Some good ideas, thanks for the video

I love it

Nice!

Interesting video thanks .... I can't find anything on Sparkles the Bus? Thanks Laurie Carroll

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

Check out facebook.com/SparklesTheBus/ !

I cant find anyone to do a conversion around my area. I even asked a contractor. What is the best way to find a trustworthy person?

I really like the conversion it's awesome. How long did it take for the conversion to take after you drop it off. Thank's have a great day

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

2 Weeks

@johnnycarson8131

5 жыл бұрын

And its around 7 grand ?

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

Yea, it's $7k now, was 6 but prices went up due to demand I suppose. You can see on his website (link is in description)

The thing about the Promaster is that there isn’t a 4WD option. I know a lot of ppl get away with 2WD but where I live 4x4 is a great thing to have.

Are you still in business. Where is your brick and mortar garage?

I like that small fan. Where can it be purchased and who is the maker?

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

Ventline Vanair: www.etrailer.com/Enclosed-Trailer-Parts/Ventline/VP-543SP.html

room for a small compost toilet anywhere? who about large shade attachment with grove slide to remove it?

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

Not really, I have those REI bags for emergencies, lucky I haven't needed to use it yet. Large shade attachment, like an awning? You can definitely mount that to a roof rack, but it does reduce stealth.

Anyone have any idea about the waterpump and faucet? Looks to be something I can utilize for my murphy style counter top kitchen.

@brianmi40

5 жыл бұрын

Amazon...

what is that vent fan? I really like it! super small!

@abcdxyz925

4 жыл бұрын

www.campingworld.com/maxxair-maxxfan-dome-black-121672.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI1OfW4MjG6gIV_z6tBh1aRghUEAQYFSABEgJbVPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

@toronado455

4 жыл бұрын

@@abcdxyz925 Wow that's awesome thank you! 🙂

Quick question....is the solar/battery setup strong enough to power just the fridge 24/7?? Assuming of course you have full sun most days and don't use the system for anything but the fridge.

@SmartVan

3 жыл бұрын

It is in the summertime when I park where there's direct sunlight. If you drive more than an hour a day, it'll also keep the fridge up in the winter too.

How do you drain the sink?

Small but very efficient. Love it. The Promaster city was my choice. So how much for one like this. I need one.

@gianttravelsbyvan9670

4 жыл бұрын

Here's how to build it all yourself in a PMC, for under $1700, including a Shou Sugi Ban ceiling! kzread.info/dron/YlR2t3yTZ8Z2cScBTQEZbg.html?

SmartVan, now that you’ve been in the van a while, can you comment on the build quality of the cascade campervan kit? How has it held up? Any issues with anything breaking, no working, leaks, solar or battery or fridge problems? Also how do you like the Promaster city? Any reliability issues with the van itself? You feedback would be much appreciated! Thanks a bunch

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

Hey Jeff, build quality is great so far. It's also been easy to modify too. No problems at all, everything is solid. Not too many miles on the PMC yet so I can't say about quality, but it hasn't required serious work yet (36k miles) Definitely try driving a PMC, it's a work van so it's barebones.

How many gallons of fresh water can you add? Also what types of batteries are used?

@SmartVan

4 жыл бұрын

5 gallon tank and AGM marine battery

very nice work. $6k is your retail price? What model is that promaster? city, asking because they all don't come with the roof molding.. really like the way your panels and insulation are inside the pillars. Regarding forced ventilation do these vans already come with vents in the back that can be used so you don't have to cut into the roof?

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

$7k now, check out cascade campers and email zach for questions! Conversion requires the cargo version of the van

@brianmi40

5 жыл бұрын

I’m Doing a PMC conversion. Roof vent is not stock in any of these commercial trade vans. Best seems to be Maxx fan since can run even when raining.

@whenufirstrealized

5 жыл бұрын

I'm installing a $95 Fan-Tastic cause I don't want a remote to lose (especially since fan control will be 6 inches from my head), don't care about reverse, will never drive with the vent open and you can always close the vent just a little and if it's raining sideways I'll put up with some sprinkles which I do anyways cause I like driving with the windows open...

Where does the gray water go to?

@SmartVan

3 жыл бұрын

Just goes out near the rear wheel. If camping somewhere where it isn't ok I use an oil pan to catch it (one of those that drains into a tub)

Nice! How can I order one of these Van’s?

awesome build smart van. you can tell that you have actually lived in a van before. one question. why not put a fold-able table that flips up from galley counter area? So that it serves a second purpose as an aesthetic covering of the water/stove/mechanical area? just a thought. and also, can you do this build with a maxair fan? I know its not as stealth but maxair is nice! Thanks.

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

I think that's a question for Zach from Cascade Campers who did the design and build. But he does do custom work, and you can reach out on his site www.cascadecampers.com/conversions.html It's not covered in the video but you can see that I got him to build in a fold up table mounted to the front of the counter so I can work on my laptop.

@brianmi40

5 жыл бұрын

Fold up table clearly visible at 6:28 in the video. Better option tho is Lagun table. Swivels to anywhere so you can get up without taking stuff off of it. It’s spelled Maxx Fan and I’m sure he would do, just requires 14” square hole cut in roof and there’s plenty of room. I’m doing a PMC conversion myself.

How much does this van run with the conversation, and how much for one of the longer base Promaster vans? Also, could seat belts be added to the bench seat ? Also, after reading some of the comments from deep South states, I live in Texas and would need extra insulation due to extreme heat and cold conditions. It can get well over 101°F in the summertime and down to the teens and occasionally the rare single digits. I want to be comfortable at festivals and if I go on vacation with friends or family.

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

15k used van + 7k cascade campers conversion + 2k insulation, bench seats don't have seat belts, I think recon campers has a conversion with seat belts though, you might look into that. Extreme heat/cold sounds like quite the challenge!

@maryellencook9528

5 жыл бұрын

@@SmartVan thank you for your response and help. That sounds like a good option. What is the contact info for recon campers? Yes, living with the Texas temperatures can be challenging. This week alone I have used the house a/c and heat in the same day. But as we say down here, if you don't like the weather, just wait and it will change!

Thanks for sharing! In your 1st video you mentioned that you chose a company to convert your van. Is this one yours?

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

Yup, Cascade Campers is that company I mentioned in the first vid. I found them by chance online and visited to check out the build, and after sitting inside and seeing the design, I knew it was right for me.

Nice video! I'm interested in your build. Do you recommend to have two ceiling fans? Thanks.

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

You'll have to ask Zach on his website or instagram for more details. As someone who lives in the van though 2 might significantly increase airflow if you set one for intake and one for outflow.

@AlMadla

5 жыл бұрын

@@SmartVan Thank you! Make more video please.

Where does the gray water from the sink go ?

@SmartVan

5 жыл бұрын

Drains onto the ground by default, I have an oil drip pan I use if I'm camping and the campground doesn't allow it

don't the uninsulated, uncovered bare metal areas let a lot of heat into the van? also if you use the white hoses made for water you don't get any "hose" taste to water. like the organization overall

@SmartVan

6 жыл бұрын

This was my biggest concern at first. There's a section that didn't make the final cut where Zach mentions insulating the interior and adding custom trimmings, but he doesn't do it in order to reduce the cost. Luckily, I find that the existing paneling does a decent job for now: combined with the curtain, it keeps the back area of the van cool till late morning in the 87 degree desert (the driver's area will be scorching hot by then). In the future I'll probably stuff insulation and cover the remaining bits as I figure out an insulation strategy. In the meantime though, the exposed metal areas will help me run wiring in the coming months to get this van to live up to a "smart van". Stay tuned!

It looks like that bed is 44 inches wide. Is it hard for two middle-aged or older adults to sleep together on it? What have people found about that?

@SmartVan

3 жыл бұрын

Quite cozy for 2 adults, and gets stuffy inside quicker too due to small volume. Works better if you're both smaller.

How did you cut the shape of the ceiling board?

@brianmi40

5 жыл бұрын

Careful measurements, or some cut pattern in cardboard first and trace to plywood. I prefer the tongue and groove pine boards at Home Depot tho which many paint or just seal with a finish like water polyurethane.