Mercedes Sprinter Unistrut Roof Rack Hack

Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары

How I made and instaled roof bars to the roof of my Mercedes sprinter Camper Van
using unistrut 41mm x 41mm
bolts used are M8xL25mm
My aim is to give you campervan conversion ideas on how to convert a van into a camper and to help inspire you to build your own tiny home on wheels
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thanks for watching and here is a list of everything I used in this video
41x41mm unistrut
rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-534...
Mastic Sealing Strip
rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-534...
Nuts & bolts
rover.ebay.com/rover/1/710-534...
#melsvanlife #melsvanworld #vanbuild #diycampervan #vanconversion #vanlife #vandwelling

Пікірлер: 213

  • @janner2121
    @janner21213 жыл бұрын

    The only van build videos with "Sign language" !!

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    Haha that’s brilliant 👍🤓

  • @tonytca9439
    @tonytca94394 жыл бұрын

    i think it would be better to bolt coming up from inside the van then lock on washers and nuts sealed and loctite solid BEFORE adding the unistrut. Then you can pack the height off the roof slightly before dropping the strut onto the bolt studs. Also if they work loose as you have done it when the mastic goes soft in the summer you will have to tear down your ceiling inside just to tighten the bolts. Finally if you ever need to take it off to repair or clean underneath just undo the top nuts.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Arrrrrr😬😬I’m going to have to take it all off now and change it that’s a brilliant idea 😂👍🤓👍

  • @tonytca9439

    @tonytca9439

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld Well i didn't want you to tear down your ceiling due to leaks on your bed and wobbly roof bars halfway through your European cruise:)

  • @markwhitehead1658

    @markwhitehead1658

    4 жыл бұрын

    That's a good idea 👍

  • @ncmarkham

    @ncmarkham

    3 жыл бұрын

    I'm probably being dumb here but how do you stop the bolt rotating inside the van, is that where the loctite comes in? i.e. glue it to the ceiling to stop it spinning when you do the nut up on the roof? I did think about filing the hole so it's square and then using coach bolts (that have a square just under the head), but that seems like a lot of work.

  • @stuartchapman5171
    @stuartchapman517110 ай бұрын

    In my metal working days we used Unistrut often. One of the mnay fixings you can buy are "zebedees" ( sure thats not their real name). They're a rectangular nut, so they dont rotate in the strut, with a spring to hold them against the botton of the channel. You slide them along, line them up with the hole, then simply bolt up, with out having the nuts rotate. Did you find the paint chipping off the galvanised surface? Most paints just sit on the surface. We used to give galv a coat of Mordant primer, to etch and adhere to the surface. You can get black etch primer as well, youhave to check spec, to see if it's designed for galv. Great work and great vids.

  • @malkaart9808
    @malkaart98083 жыл бұрын

    I think I've said it before already, you're a genius mate! This is by far the easiest and cheapest alternative for super expensive products. I will definitely put that on the roof of my van! Thank you for this video!

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    Cheers that’s really kind of you good luck with your build 👍🤓👍

  • @chriscook1987
    @chriscook1987 Жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel . You can get aluminium Unistrut . Not as strong as steel obviously , but just use more fixings and it will be more than strong enough for that job in my humble opinion .... watch all your videos , great stuff

  • @alamocannon3791
    @alamocannon37914 жыл бұрын

    Mildly entertaining and I`m not even converting a van. I came across your channel while searching for fixing a dodgy ignition switch on a transit and been watching ever since....

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers that’s nice to know really appreciate your sticking around 👍🤓👍

  • @ru5tynutzvanlife556
    @ru5tynutzvanlife5564 жыл бұрын

    Ha ha , 😁 Hope the black cat is in the next video , luv that cat 😆 cheers for entertaining me 😄😁😁

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you and you’re absolutely welcome 👍🤓👍

  • @Pugwash.
    @Pugwash.4 жыл бұрын

    Was going to say "no one can see mine" but you covered that issue :) The end caps fell off mine anyway. Mole grips all the way for holding your loose nuts.

  • @davidellerby732
    @davidellerby7324 жыл бұрын

    nice one Mel, great alternative to a full roof rack and you made the removal of the plastic bungs look easy. can't wait for the next video :-)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your positive feedback really appreciated 👍🤓👍

  • @kevinjames7367
    @kevinjames73674 жыл бұрын

    Just used this paint for my unistrut, good recommendation 👍

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    You’re absolutely welcome

  • @urbexphotographer
    @urbexphotographer4 жыл бұрын

    Another great video fella, you’re smashing it 😀

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @garrybeard2031
    @garrybeard20314 жыл бұрын

    Now that’s a roof rack well done mate.👍🇬🇧🍺🤘

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @sunnydaze6974
    @sunnydaze69744 жыл бұрын

    Ahhh quality friday evening viewing. :)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻 have a good weekend buddy 👍🤓👍

  • @oldskoowlpebblestravels
    @oldskoowlpebblestravels4 жыл бұрын

    I like all your vids Mel very Handy tips and tricks which i do use when working on our camper

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Gd day mate nice to know good to hear from you 🍻🍻👍

  • @FreedomStrider
    @FreedomStrider4 жыл бұрын

    Good tip, we're looking to do our own DIY roof rack, still figuring out the construction - needs to hold solar panels, and our deck and more ;)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    You need unistrut take a look at all the different things you can get for it you’re be spoiled for Choice it’s brilliant 👍😂👍

  • @jamiecurry7240
    @jamiecurry72404 жыл бұрын

    Great handy video Mel as always, well done. =)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @toastieup
    @toastieup4 жыл бұрын

    “I love it when a plan comes together “ A Team👌🏾..

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    👍🤓👍

  • @donaldmarks8707
    @donaldmarks87074 жыл бұрын

    Nice Mel. It's a pain working on your own. Look forward to the next installment. :-)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻

  • @emiliomascarenas3035
    @emiliomascarenas30352 жыл бұрын

    Love the energy mate well done!

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 🙏

  • @rudyvannistelrooij6150
    @rudyvannistelrooij61504 жыл бұрын

    Another perfect tip Mel, so much fun watchin ! Greats from the Netherlands 👍

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you that’s nice to know how’s the weather 👍🤓👍

  • @rudyvannistelrooij6150

    @rudyvannistelrooij6150

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld weather is bad the last week, cold fogy and rain 💩

  • @katcankan7129
    @katcankan71294 жыл бұрын

    Very informative Mel. You & the cat have a nice weekend 😃🍺🥛🐱

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you and you 🍻👍🤓🤓

  • @wkdnico
    @wkdnico4 жыл бұрын

    Brilliant.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻

  • @strongandco
    @strongandco4 жыл бұрын

    You're certainly racking up the videos Mel 👍

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Haha brilliant 😂👍🤓👍

  • @pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN
    @pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN4 жыл бұрын

    Good job mate 👍👍👍

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @grumpygrandpa3640
    @grumpygrandpa36404 жыл бұрын

    Nice to see the beard coming back 😂 great idea that unistrut stuff is brilliant

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @guyemmott4009
    @guyemmott40094 жыл бұрын

    Definitely raised the 'bar' with those Mel.. 🤣 Noticed build-up of green algae on the roof.. Worth getting that cleaned off thoroughly as this is the enemy of paint/lacquer....eats into it and starts the peeling process..

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Don’t worry as soon as I stoped recorded good I set to work cleaning 👍🤓👍

  • @johnnyfishbone5397
    @johnnyfishbone53974 жыл бұрын

    Another great video Mel - your enthusiasm is fantastic! 👍 I’ve used Unistrut (well a much cheaper version) on my Sprinter to mount a ARB awning & solar panel. I agree with Mike6978 with using rivnuts. I drilled new holes and used rivnuts as it allows me to remove or modify the rails at a later stage. Once your internal headliner and wall cupboards are up you cannot access the nuts inside the van if needed. You may also have to use spacer plates on top of the Unistrut when using cross braces to mount your solar panel. This is due to the curvature of the roof. I mounted my solar panel on L shaped aluminium sections to keep the weight down! Hope this helps & keep up the good work dude 👍👍😀😀

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Ooh well done 👍 I used 41x41mm so it’s high and clear of the roof 👍🤓👍

  • @andymeynell7387

    @andymeynell7387

    3 жыл бұрын

    Hi, I'm struggling to visualize this, would the Unistrut be sat on top of the rivnuts or have you packed out the gap underneath?

  • @dirtydog2312
    @dirtydog23124 жыл бұрын

    Unistrut! That's the stuff I was thinking of the other day but couldn't remember it's name! Going to be using some in my camper build

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    It’s brilliant stuff good luck with your build 👍🤓👍

  • @Pugwash.

    @Pugwash.

    4 жыл бұрын

    Used it on my roof for solar and under the van for the waste tank

  • @MHUK-Matt
    @MHUK-Matt4 жыл бұрын

    Nice work as usual Mel! What a great job.. Might borrow that idea for my roof rack! ✌👽👍

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you and you’re absolutely welcome go for it 👍🤓👍

  • @13yearsaprepperr.jtilbury.51
    @13yearsaprepperr.jtilbury.514 жыл бұрын

    great vid Mel .

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @mrsaxo15
    @mrsaxo154 жыл бұрын

    I would use a toffee wheel to clean that old glue up. Works brilliantly when removing old glue from my T5

  • @chrisstone4919
    @chrisstone49194 жыл бұрын

    From 4:40 to 5:40 got me in tears of laughter keep up the good work mel 👍

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 😂😂🤓👍

  • @louisjantzen7141
    @louisjantzen71414 жыл бұрын

    You could probably fit an inflatable kiddie's pool on those struts for the summer - a couple of water pumps and Presto! Penthouse Jacuzzi. 👍

  • @louisjantzen7141

    @louisjantzen7141

    4 жыл бұрын

    (don't mind me: l'm on my 6th beer)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Brilliant have a great weekend 👍🤓👍

  • @frenchysvanlife
    @frenchysvanlife4 жыл бұрын

    Pukka job mate - looks good!

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @djpWilson
    @djpWilson4 жыл бұрын

    "A bit like treacle" :) uniquely British

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Brilliant 👍🤓👍

  • @surfvan_shaka
    @surfvan_shaka4 жыл бұрын

    You are awesome. I like your channel for free. Strong hughes from Brasil.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you that’s really appreciated 👍🤓👍

  • @randomcol1378
    @randomcol13784 жыл бұрын

    Good stuff you can fix loads of stuff to the roof now, not sure about the postie in the background reversing in to the road though that gave me a cold sweat 😁

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻 👍🤓👍

  • @garyharrad4876
    @garyharrad48764 жыл бұрын

    I work for unitrunk and I've never seen strut used as a roof rack before only cable management lol top class work there mel.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you could you send me some end caps lol 👍🤓👍

  • @garyharrad4876

    @garyharrad4876

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld I can send you some PM me details I'm back in work Tuesday dude.

  • @MrNugget425
    @MrNugget4254 жыл бұрын

    Nice one mate, I went the same but self tapping bolts through roof. Wish I'd seen your method before.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Ooh sorry mate I’m sure there be fine 👍🤓👍

  • @MrNugget425

    @MrNugget425

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld they dont move an inch despite some serious wind tests on the motorway,followed Greggs set up but avoided the factory holes and went straight through the roof with wood batons on the inside. Wish I'd sprayed black now though 🙄

  • @stellarandrews9538
    @stellarandrews95384 жыл бұрын

    Mel the buttons on the roof?? Shame Merc&VW didn’t think too use this type of glue under the plastic side mouldings.. would have saved us all a fortune repairing the dam rust and help get rid of the water ingress

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Your not wrong 😂👍🍻

  • @answerstewart1878
    @answerstewart18784 жыл бұрын

    I also am using unistrut for my roof rack. "Cheers"

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Answer Stewart well done 👍 🤓

  • @PaulGloverHowDo
    @PaulGloverHowDo4 жыл бұрын

    Like it Mel, never used the mastic and hope it turns out ok for you. Good vid

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 👍🤓👍

  • @HonkyHorton
    @HonkyHorton4 жыл бұрын

    The weekend is here Mel has posted a video 👍

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻 have a good weekend 👍🤓👍

  • @flybobbie1449
    @flybobbie14494 жыл бұрын

    I see the use of this rail, borrow awning, take picture, give back awning. All set for the van conversion regs.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    You’re absolutely right only I’m going to make my own awning 👍🤓👍

  • @travelingchalksworld5138

    @travelingchalksworld5138

    4 жыл бұрын

    You don’t need awning according to new rules. Just the fixing rail🚐☕️☕️👍🏼🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

  • @wiffer64
    @wiffer644 жыл бұрын

    Just in time. I have bought the strut and fittings and was great to see how you have fitted. Give me confidence to have a go. If fitting after insulation do you think Riv Nuts would secure?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    That’s good and yes I think Riv nuts would work 👍🤓👍

  • @fraserhardmetal7143
    @fraserhardmetal71434 жыл бұрын

    Lovely jubbly Mel - another inspiring video - plus the Paul Whitehouse impression is even better. Just a tip on the Unistrut fix - did you put large washers and butyl tape internally ? It's worth doing just to make sure of the seal before it's all boxed in. I've had failure on this area after 2 years of no problems. Must be the effect of heat and vibration, but it's worth the extra effort just to make sure.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi thank you and yes I did use washers the tape pushed through to the other side soo all good 👍🤓👍

  • @DaveTheDasher77
    @DaveTheDasher774 жыл бұрын

    Wish my 2013 transit had those for the rails, Had to,build actual racks

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    It was really handy having them holes 👍🤓👍

  • @travelingchalksworld5138

    @travelingchalksworld5138

    4 жыл бұрын

    Mark it out drill roof not really a problem I wouldn’t think🚐☕️☕️👍🏼🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

  • @ben2e0omr
    @ben2e0omr4 жыл бұрын

    Just a quick one Mel. Protect your lens with a UV filter,about £5 on Amazon for a 58 mm diameter one. That way if you mess up the filter its only £5 and not a new lens. Hope this helps.

  • @tobywebb467
    @tobywebb467 Жыл бұрын

    Great video! How weight bearing do you think the cross beams would be? Strong enough to hold decking and 2 people on top?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    Жыл бұрын

    No don’t do it 👍

  • @uptowndisco2
    @uptowndisco24 жыл бұрын

    nice strong roof rails , and will double up as a roll cage should the worst happen lol

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Lol let’s hope I never have to put it to the test 😂🤓👍

  • @derykmacleod4979
    @derykmacleod49794 жыл бұрын

    Hey Mel! Yeah roof racks are exceedingly over priced. Great Idea with unistrut...i might have to look into it for Dobby! Over here they call your mastic tape, butyl tape and it is great when it has pressure on it. I lived aboard a 1969 Charlie Morgan 34' sailboat and i removed an original deck cleat and the Butyl tape under it looked brand new and it never leaked a drop in the 40 some years old at that point!

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi ya Derek I lived and worked on boats since I could walk my dad was a shipwright that’s where I got the ideas from for most of my projects my dream boat would be a fisher 34 but I think I’ll need to win the lottery to get one lol good luck with Dobby I must think of a name for my sprinter 👍🤓👍

  • @alanmay1945
    @alanmay19454 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel, another great vid, thanks. Those plastic/rubber caps, instead of removing them, could these be left in situ, as they are, and just drill an 8mm hole (M8 bolt size) in the centre of them? then they would be a grommet, to seal (still use a smear of sealant tho), Alan, in Norfolk.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    You could do mate 👍🤓👍

  • @UrbanVanlife
    @UrbanVanlife4 жыл бұрын

    How good is that tubing man . How many cross members are you going for . And are you planning on fitting solar . I defo recommend it

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi I’ll definitely be putting solar on them and I’ll add two cross runs for now 👍🤓👍

  • @philwilliams23
    @philwilliams233 жыл бұрын

    Brilliant as usual Any leaks since doing it?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you and no it’s all good 👍

  • @M.Mchale
    @M.Mchale3 жыл бұрын

    Great ideas Mel, so much money saving ideas in this one.. Dyou reckon the rubber well nuts would also work on this uni strut?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you I don’t think I’d use the well nuts you maybe better off with rivnuts 👍😊👍

  • @M.Mchale

    @M.Mchale

    3 жыл бұрын

    Ok dude, thanks... will look into them

  • @chriscameron5873
    @chriscameron58733 жыл бұрын

    Another great episode Mel! I am just in the middle of doing my unistrut (univolt) roofrack, but using rivnuts. That said I have been looking at painting them black and come across a whole world of advice about painting galvanised steel and the need to prime it with special primer and make sure its 'etched' etc, so what paint did you use and is it still black and does it look ok? Also how has the mastic worked out, still no leaks, did you also add any sikaflex or anything?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    Cheep paint from pound land it scratches off put don’t matter it’s galvanised so won’t rust no leaks thank

  • @cocobunjee6676
    @cocobunjee66764 жыл бұрын

    loved your video. Where did you learn to semaphore?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    I can’t help it 😂😂🤓👍

  • @tonyfawthrop3893
    @tonyfawthrop38933 жыл бұрын

    Hi could you tell me where to purchase the black plastic inserts for the uni rack please

  • @catvando3209
    @catvando32094 жыл бұрын

    Nice one Mel. I am thinking about putting a small rack on the back end of my van. Question for you, for someone on a tight budget what type of ladder would you fit to the rear door.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    I wouldn’t recommend it you’re better off with one of them smaller ladders and keep it inside 👍🤓👍

  • @catvando3209

    @catvando3209

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld thanks Mel

  • @bobmurdoch8505
    @bobmurdoch85053 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel where did you get the black trim from for the top of your unistrut thanks Bob

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    On line unistrut direct 👍

  • @whippetsadventuresandoneman
    @whippetsadventuresandoneman4 жыл бұрын

    Wow this is amazing :) where abouts in uk are you? I’m currently building my Crafter since April and roof rack been put off because of the expensive, but this is a great idea ;)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you 😊 I’m glad you think so I’m in Kent good luck with your build 👍🤓👍

  • @whippetsadventuresandoneman

    @whippetsadventuresandoneman

    4 жыл бұрын

    Mel’s Van World I’m in Bournemouth like to get your opinion on mine :)

  • @mickvenables4462
    @mickvenables44624 жыл бұрын

    it`ll be a well solid roof rack mel,just a thought did you use nylock nuts?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻 and yes 👍🤓👍

  • @rockrebeluk5315
    @rockrebeluk53154 жыл бұрын

    Great Idea and informative video just wondering ive cladded my roof already is there a way to self tap through the roof? cheers

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you and yes you can take out the plugs and use rivnuts but you will need to use a special tool to fit them good luck 👍🤓👍

  • @rockrebeluk5315

    @rockrebeluk5315

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld thanks Mel never thought of that I do have a rivnut tool so that will work perfect.. Thanks

  • @E3CB
    @E3CB4 жыл бұрын

    02:08 The black cat made an entrance. Usually he/she comes sooner or later. I'm currently writing my PhD thesis on "Feline cameos and behaviors in Mel's Van World build series videos".

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    That’s brilliant good luck with that 😂👍🤓👍

  • @ncmarkham
    @ncmarkham3 жыл бұрын

    I'm probably being dumb here but how do you stop the bolt rotating inside the van, is that where the loctite comes in? i.e. glue it to the ceiling to stop it spinning when you do the nut up on the roof? I did think about filing the hole so it's square and then using coach bolts (that have a square just under the head), but that seems like a lot of work.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    If you have a little look at my newer video I used rivnuts

  • @eamonn7777
    @eamonn77773 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel, can you please provide the link for the plastic capping that you used to cover the top of the Uni-strut ?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    I’m sorry I don’t have a link I got tit from uni strut direct .com 👍

  • @UKvet246
    @UKvet2464 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel If you wanted to fit Uni Strut after internal fitout could you use riv nuts using those holes.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Yes that’s a great idea I don’t see why not 👍🤓👍

  • @UKvet246

    @UKvet246

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld Right that's the plan for me, cheers.

  • @tonytca9439

    @tonytca9439

    4 жыл бұрын

    If you don't already have grommet holes its a good solution else you probably won't find a rivnut to fit the hole.The Ambulance/Police fitters use rivnuts everywhere for bolting on lights etc on the roof but you must seal and protect every hole you make as when they do it after 5 years service life the unprotected holes have totally rusted out when the vehicles are stripped and sold on.

  • @dazmontana2112
    @dazmontana21124 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel, I just wondered are you using your GoPro Hero 7 to record Audio or an external Audio Recorder? Fantastic Videos.. Keep at it! Cheers!

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi thank you I’m using the GoPro with shotgun mic 👍🤓👍

  • @dazmontana2112

    @dazmontana2112

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld Thanks for that. Cheers!

  • @paulg8524
    @paulg85243 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel, would you recommend nuts and bolts or rivnuts if you did the job again, ty

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    I used nuts n bolts on mine because I fitted the uni strut before fitting out my van I’m going to use riv nuts on Beckys van as she has already built out her van 👍

  • @stellarandrews9538
    @stellarandrews95384 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel Hi Cats Will you watch your fingers im having kittens watch you cut that mastic. Now I was wondering can't you simply drill a 6 or 7mm hole in the top of the Button then put the bolts through. and seal around the Bolt??

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi the plastic on them buttons is really thin 👍🤓👍

  • @travelingchalksworld5138

    @travelingchalksworld5138

    4 жыл бұрын

    That’s what I would have done. But the end justifies the means. All good in the end. Still a proper job🚐☕️☕️👍🏼🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

  • @brettduxfield4927
    @brettduxfield49274 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel, Any ideas about what to do if you’ve already insulated and boarded the roof out? Is there a nut that self taps? Don’t feel like ripping the ceiling down just to install the roof rack rails like yrs. Any help greatly appreciated, Brett

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi Bret you could try and use rivnuts there great 👍

  • @brettduxfield4927

    @brettduxfield4927

    4 жыл бұрын

    Just a bit worried about them leaking so I may tack weld nuts to roof. Cheers

  • @M.Mchale
    @M.Mchale3 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel, ill have to use rivnuts to install my unistrut roof rack on my sprinter. What size are the holes in the roof for my rivnuts please . Thanks in advance...

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    Iv just got some 8mm rib nuts for Becky’s van hopefully they will fit

  • @M.Mchale

    @M.Mchale

    3 жыл бұрын

    Can you please let me know how you get on...

  • @iritantNL
    @iritantNL4 жыл бұрын

    Just hose down the roof to test for leaks before you put in the ceiling 😊

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    It rained all night and was all good 👍🤓👍

  • @cocobunjee6676

    @cocobunjee6676

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld Rain in the UK isn't a good test of your roof's impermeability if you are planning on international travel. Here in Spain, for instance, rain is torrential and forceful. So much so that it can be life threatening to stand out in it and no drainage system can cope with the sheer quantity of water that falls in a short space of time. Special roadside storm ditches have to be dug to cope with the enormous quantity of water as a result. Better use the hose and better still use a power washer to ensure your roof is watertight.

  • @b19jck
    @b19jck4 жыл бұрын

    Mel, would the unistrut rail be suffice for the dvla awning rail spec?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    I’ve got plans for that watch this space 👍🤓👍

  • @b19jck

    @b19jck

    4 жыл бұрын

    Superb Mel, and thanks for replying 👌

  • @whippetsadventuresandoneman
    @whippetsadventuresandoneman4 жыл бұрын

    Hi Mel I’m struggling to open the link for the bolts? :) hope your well and your two beautiful cats :)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi sorry I’ll try looking at it to see what is wrong thanks for letting me know 👍

  • @duraflonfabrics7786
    @duraflonfabrics77864 жыл бұрын

    Funny how your cat's the same colour as your roof rail paint, Mel; what colour were they before?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Lol they was ginger 😂😂😬👍

  • @kevinjames7367
    @kevinjames73674 жыл бұрын

    Hows the paint holding on that galvanised finish?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    It’s all ok so far it’s staying on 🤓👍

  • @David_11111
    @David_111114 жыл бұрын

    yay

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻 👍🤓👍

  • @David_11111

    @David_11111

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld im still watching your wiping off your mark on the roof at the moment :)

  • @Leatherkid01
    @Leatherkid014 жыл бұрын

    Just curious, are u building these vans for yourself or for others? Or are u building a new one to replace your current transit? Sorry with all fhe questions 😀

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    This one is to replace my transit I’ll be keeping it for a couple of years 👍🤓👍

  • @NomaddUK
    @NomaddUK4 жыл бұрын

    Yo! Mel! I have 2 questions for you... 1 - Did you practice by painting the black cat at 2:18? 2 - Are you a Mandelorian? "If I take of the hat I can never put it back on"

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    No and no lol 👍🤓👍

  • @katcankan7129
    @katcankan71294 жыл бұрын

    #3😊

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Hi ya 👍🤓👍

  • @katcankan7129

    @katcankan7129

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld 😊

  • @whippetsadventuresandoneman
    @whippetsadventuresandoneman4 жыл бұрын

    Hi sorry to be a pain how many coats of pain you sprayed on the unistrut? :)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Well you know what they say no pain no gain so u put two on 😂👍

  • @whippetsadventuresandoneman

    @whippetsadventuresandoneman

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thanks 🙏

  • @tonytca9439
    @tonytca94394 жыл бұрын

    Here is another way without having to drill any holes in your roof to fix solar panels or light bars etc. Get 40mm square aluminum tubing about 1 metre and cut into 4 bits then Thoroughly clean the tubing and roof and degrease with thinners. Bond the alu tubing on the roof in the desire place with JB Weld. Allow to cure then drill into the alu tube section and use Rivnuts to bolt the solar panel into the aluminum tube section only. It's easy to remove the bolts later to replace solar panels or upgrade in the future. If the parts are really clean you never get JB weld off it will be stronger than the roof and you can obviously repair cracked engine blocks with the stuff. By doing this you get a solid fixture that can never rust or leak and no holes in the roof plus its very cost effective. To bring cables into the van use a good quality cable gland for each cable and seal. Try to fit these on top of a roof rib and not in the gullies as the gullies hold more water for longer. Treat any holes you have to make with zinc paint. Done right should be fine for 10+ years and the cable gland might need changing as the rubber starts to crack. Don't use those cheap stick on white cable entry plastic covers they are crap and never seal properly.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Wow that’s brilliant idea thanks for that 😂🤓👍

  • @MichaelofEngland
    @MichaelofEngland4 жыл бұрын

    Nice idea thanks Mel! I'm trying to figure this out for mine. Would this work for a transit Mk7? They don't have the anchor points but if it bolted through into the roof ribs would that work?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you Michael I real can’t remember what the roof of my transit looked like so I wouldn’t like to say sorry mate 😬👍

  • @adrianhewett3903
    @adrianhewett39034 жыл бұрын

    what size bolts did you use mel?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    M8 x L25 mm 👍

  • @adrianhewett3903

    @adrianhewett3903

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld thanks mel you have saved me a lot of time and effort. stay safe buddy

  • @justinmoore6552
    @justinmoore65524 жыл бұрын

    4:30 Wilko spray painted cat? #1

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Noooo lol 😂 👍🤓👍

  • @dieselbushcraft1299
    @dieselbushcraft12994 жыл бұрын

    Woohoo it’s a stealthy van again 😂. Are you fitting a diesel heater to this van?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Yes as soon as we get a dry day next on my list of things to do 👍🤓👍

  • @dieselbushcraft1299

    @dieselbushcraft1299

    4 жыл бұрын

    Looking forward to seeing that one. It’s on the agenda for mine too but I’m wanting to plumb into vehicle fuel tank but doubt I’ll be doing that part as I’m not recovered enough yet. Would you mind posting your supplier too. Thanks

  • @maikeljegerings5870
    @maikeljegerings58704 жыл бұрын

    2:14 He paint the cat black also.

  • @benjaminmountford2585
    @benjaminmountford25853 жыл бұрын

    Is this legal for cars?

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    3 жыл бұрын

    i dont see why not

  • @andycheckley6530
    @andycheckley65304 жыл бұрын

    Please tell me you dont sell double glazing....... but seriously its gonna leak

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    No I don’t sell double glazing why would you think that 😂🤷‍♂️

  • @pedrolg
    @pedrolg4 жыл бұрын

    No need of nexflix of whatever is written. This is my series.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Thank you really appreciate your support 👍🤓👍

  • @RemusKingOfRome
    @RemusKingOfRome4 жыл бұрын

    Bet those roof racks leak.

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Bet it don’t 😂🍻👋

  • @malcolmrowe5031
    @malcolmrowe50314 жыл бұрын

    "finners", is that like "Thinners"? lol Why not use half height unistrut rather than the tall one you have there to reduce weight? You should have put some zebedees inside the strut they are designed to wedge up to the top lip and not spin!.

  • @jaymiddleton772

    @jaymiddleton772

    4 жыл бұрын

    If the roof is flat, half height would be better. If the roof has a crown, full height might give just enough clearance for any cross beams.

  • @Severon1965
    @Severon19654 жыл бұрын

    NOT HOW I BUT HOW TO

  • @jamiecurry7240
    @jamiecurry72404 жыл бұрын

    Great handy video Mel as always, well done. =)

  • @BigVanSmallWorld

    @BigVanSmallWorld

    4 жыл бұрын

    Cheers 🍻 👍🤓👍

  • @jamiecurry7240

    @jamiecurry7240

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld you're very welcome mel, slainte 🍻 👍=) 👍

  • @jamiecurry7240

    @jamiecurry7240

    4 жыл бұрын

    @@BigVanSmallWorld you're very welcome mel, slainte 🍻 👍=) 👍

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