Ty for sharing. Considering $8k I am happy with DIY and learning. Minivans have been excellent for me. Toyota Sienna with 58,000 miles was $16,500 with taxes in California. My one complaint is storing the seats when in camper mode. The positives are that it there are lots of used options, drive comfort, power windows, locks, cruise, double sliding doors and easily serviced anywhere. The interior box is just right for two and a trailer hitch carries bikes or storage. Two 100 watt solar panels are pipe clamped to my roof rack. Almost no drilling into the van. Converted back to carry 7 in less than an hour. I full time and store the seats.
was just checking out some of your older videos then this popped up. im looking into getting the promaster city for road trips and camping. glad to see you making videos again.
Thanks for your review. This is my future and you're making my decision much easier. I to am renting a Cascade Camper this summer to try it out. I'm sure it will be just fine.😎
Very interesting and detail packed! I found it import that you mentioned the community, something I haven’t seen talked about enough when getting a prebuilt conversion.
Thanks for the video. Your video 3 years ago directed me to CC. I love Zac's philosophy and my CC van. Looking forward to more videos in the future. From #139.
Hey #006! Like your honest reviews and your posts even though some of them are tech heavy for me 🙂. I have a PM City and have put the Wayfarer floor and insulation in it for camping this spring. It really helped for sound proofing and keeping it warmer in the van. SD was -26 F a few days ago🥶.
Hey Kimberly, it does its job, but it is a bit pricey. With the Cascade furniture and panels in the way, you end up only taking advantage of maybe 60% of the insulation kit too (I removed one of the wood panels in favor of the Wayfarer panel to keep things warmer). When I have time I'd like to make something custom from foam and fabric. It'll look better too since I don't take advantage of its removability much. I don't know if they sell individual pieces (you can ask Ian by email), but I really like their rear window panels, they're better at blocking out light than the default cascade curtains and insulate better too.
Thanks for the update. It seems the big potential problem is the Promaster City. I am on a Promaster City facebook discussion group. The reviews are mixed. Some people don't have problems and some people have nothing but problems. Nonetheless the camper setup seems ideal. It would be great if Cascade converted other vans.
Yes I agree with this assessment. I'm the least impressed with the PMC. Cascade used to convert Fords too but has since gone full time into the PMC, supposedly because there were other common issues with the Transit Connect and the NV200 after enough miles.
There's another conversion group called small Vans Big World that convert Ford Transit Connects, and their work looks amazing They have CZcams videos showing their conversion, I just don't know how much the conversion is But I would imagine it's more than this and you're right not a lot of companies will do the Ford Transit Connect or Dodge ProMaster because of how small they are I defiantly am looking forward to your updated video on Cascade Camper Vans
For Cascade Campers, it’s 200$ more for an extra fan/vent. They also install windows if your van didn’t come with them: ”COST: one side window $500, two side windows $800, back windows $800”. You should mention Wayfarer Vans can ship you their camper kit as it is not a permanent install (that may be an advantage for some, easier to sell the van or move the kit to a newer van. Also makes using the van to haul cargo when you need to possible). Wayfarer Vans now offers the option to install a Maxx Air Fan but for that you would have to bring them your van (obviously). I think the only ones who make and install a pop top for the Promaster City are Colorado Camper Vans but I don’t think it’s worth it. Might as well just go with a Promaster high roof at that point.
Yes these are all good points. I use the Wayfarer insulation in my van and Ian (wayfarer owner) has been very helpful over email! Cascade windows are optional from my understanding, my van has no side windows (and I prefer it that way).
Been following you since the start. Great review from CASCADE CAMPER #42- the answer to the universe!! I will second everything you said. The forum is great. We actually just sold our CC when we got kids, but would buy another one for sure. You are awesome. I look for your videos.
Hi Smart Van, I've been following you from the beginning - thank you for your informative videos. I've always noticed your CC has what appears to be a small flip up table, but I've never seen you talk about the feature, nor do I see the feature on CC's website. Can you tell me about what looks to be the small table. I'm very interested in the CC, and would like to have the flip up table option. I'm thrilled to see a new and very informative video from you about the CC - thank you! : )
Good observation! When I rented the CC for the first time 3 years ago I noticed that it was hard to work on a laptop so I bought some folding tables on amazon and zach helped me install it during the build. I've since seen that others have gotten the same table installed in their cascade campers, so when you're chatting with Zach, just ask about the side table! I think it costs a bit extra and takes away about an inch and a half from the bed when folded down, but is very much worth it. Thanks for watching!
Hi Smart Van, Thank you! Any chance you can post a photo(s) of the table in action. And details of the actual table you purchased to be installed. Many thanks! : )
@@annestafford3080 Ah now I remember, I bought these www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076D7K2GJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 off of amazon and zach built the table portion custom, which is why it matches the appearance of the other cascade furniture. My purchase history shows me getting the 10 inch arms.
I just bought a CC (3 days so far) and have a really dumb question. It’s night and I suddenly wanted to see if the refrigerator was on or off, so I went into the garage and got in the van and can only find a way to turn the red interior lights on. Maybe tomorrow when I look in daylight I’ll see for myself how to turn the white lights on, but can you tell me how? And thank you for your videos. I find that I’m really nervous about all the things I never had to think about before and I calm down when I watch your efficient and detailed presentation.
Hey there, no worries we all went through the same learning period! The white lights are switched with a button on the light itself in my van, though that may be different with newer versions. I also hung up some USB fairy lights I bought on Amazon because the light is softer and more home-like. I control it with a USB 4 port switch with buttons (the one by Saberent)
Hi! Loved the video! Wondering if any of the Cascade Campervans are for sale via the forum? Thought you might have a lead on this since you’re a part of the community. Cheers 🙏
Red lighting (combined with warm colors on all your screens) also encourages good sleep by releasing melatonin that white (daylight color) lighting suppresses.
Great update! Few questions. Do you recommend getting the 1 or 2 side windows or none? Would you get the Cascade sticker? Would a rooftop cargo holder impede on the solar? What are your thoughts about sleeping with the car running for AC? Thanks
Personally I like no side windows for stealth, and then just opening the door when camping. The cascade sticker I like for stealth, but it's just a vinyl and can be easily removed. Rooftop cargo holder does impede solar, the way the cells work, afaik it wants light on all or else power is greatly reduced. I've slept in the van with AC on before in the desert, it works but is a bit loud. This summer I want to set it up to automatically turn AC on when it gets warm and turn off the engine when it gets cool enough, similar to what I've done with engine heating (see my latest videos). Thanks for watching!
@@SmartVan Thanks! I have a great tip. Mack's Pillow earplugs ( Silicone ). They literally make you deaf so you can sleep. No comparison to the foam ones.
Thanks for the review! I was wondering how the 75ah battery has been working with the Domestic CF-25. Is it enough power? It seems like a small battery but I don't have first hand experience. I have a Promaster city that I am just starting to build out. Trying to spec the right electrical system, but getting a lot of inspiration from the Cascade Camper. Thanks!
No problem! It's enough power in the summer when there's daily sun but it will drain the house battery after a week if you don't get sun and you don't run the engine. Getting the insulation helps though, and I use engine heating to stay warm in the winter so it comes with battery charging. 75AH works for the cascade camper: if you typically cycle 40AH (40AH*12V = 480WH) then you should be able to charge with 100W solar in 4.8 hours (a day of good sun) or the 900W engine alternator in half an hour (in practice it feels like it takes longer). I know some people have gotten their conversions with 2 battery banks but to maintain the same behavior (of being able to fully charge your battery in a single day of sun) you'll want to double up panels too.
How about long-term review comments on that "carpet kit" you got from Wayfarer to cover up some of the metal bits in the back ? (I remember the video when you first got them). Still happy with it ? Would you consider taking it to a car shop and have them cover the metal with trunk liner carpet instead , after stuffing some insulation inside the pillars ?
No regrets because I needed the insulation kit at the time, but if you have the time to do something better fitting I bet you could get it done for less than the price wayfarer charges (now $1900). Let me know how it goes, I might switch to something custom if it fits better!
Thanks for the review. Did a search for Cascade Campers Customer Forum but nothing popped up similar to the screen shot in the review. Can you provide a link?
Hi Art, it's a private forum for customers. You can email Zach for any questions on the cascade website, best way to get in the forums is to get a Cascade Camper!
I ask Cascade if I could buy plans for bed he said I couldn't, I am doing a build in Toronto, as driving there and with currency exchange would make it unfeasible, I am dying to know how to build that sofa bed!?
Hmm, the PMC isn't the best car I've driven for sure, but as far as I know it's the better option within its class and price range (vs NV and transit connect).
Love your video! I'm #118 Mini. I also agree that the mattress is a little too firm. I was just wondering what mattress topper you use? I've tried the self inflating pad and they still aren't very comfortable. Thanks
Hey there, glad you liked it! I use this thing: DreamFoam Memory Foam Topper www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019J9AT12 It's very luxurious, I've tried other foam toppers but this one has a good density. I bought it in full size. I traced the cascade foam mattress to cut out a form fitting shape. The foam got beat up without being wrapped in fabric to protect it, so I found a fitted sheet to wrap it with. You can sew it shut to fit and add buttons or velcro patches so its removable to wash.
@@franobrigewitsch6704 I roll it up and leave it on the couch or passenger seat. Because its foam it will also compress into a milk carton but it does some damage to the material if done too often
Hi great video. I have a couple questions. When you take the bed down in stealth mode (with doors closed) how many inches are between the bed and door width and length wise? Also do you ever just sleep on the bench only and do you feel it’s wide enough to sleep if you remove the back cushion? I’m not going to live in it, just maybe a month max. Mostly for camping, not too much for stealth. Thanks!
A bit more than 14 inches between the bed and the door. I haven't tried sleeping on just the lower half yet, but it's 21 inches wide. In terms of mattress size, that's less than twin (39 in) and less than a standard crib (27 in)
Hey dude, I'm scheduled to get my cascade camper on the 28th! Are you still doing full van life or got an apartment / home? Curious about your situation.
Congrats! See you in the cascade forums! My situation varies, I'm currently living out of the van and will for a few more months at least. I managed to secure a more permanent bathroom situation, which makes it easier.
@@SmartVan Did you get a cassette potty? I have thought about doing that but not sure where to keep it as it looks like it won't fit under the bed... let me know what your solution is.
Where do you keep your spare tire and do you have a hitch in back in case you need to get pulled of the mud. If I can resolve those two issues this would be the perfect van set up for me :-)
@@SmartVan My Van is all set up, it was done by gearbox adventure vans in Alabama. I love the couch in your van, it wounded perfect in mine. Just need to find someone out west where I am now, I thought about trying to order just the couch from Cascade. Do you know if they would sell just the couch? I sent them a message a couple of weeks ago and I haven’t heard anything. Thank for your feed back...... Beth
@@bethullian-burton4640 Last I heard Zach no longer does custom builds anymore. No harm in asking though, at least 3 years ago I had seen him convert a transit connect mini cargo van, but that might be the last one out there :/
@@SmartVan That's cool. I purchased a 2015 new from a dealer in 2017 for 19.5. i had it for 2 years, really liked it. I considered the Wayfair, but it was pricey. I ended up just getting these 3 large lightweight boxes, a battery, and used a bug exterminator sprayer for water. i went camping in it about 15 times. The only thing i would have added if i kept it was some bigger more off road ready tires and a lift kit or springs that would lift it a bit. I investigated the ford and the Nisan alternatives, but the Ram seemed the most reliable and largest cargo area.
Nope, all cascade vans come with the logo as a vinyl sticker. I've kept it because I think it helps with stealth. If they get too well known and identifiable as a camper I'd swap it for another logo with no text.
@@SmartVan Do you still live in it full time? I am considering doing this to live full time as well but I have a dog that I want to sleep on the floor. Does this conversion leave some room by the curtain side door area for the dog to sleep? (not in the front seat area cuz then it wouldn't be stealth)
There’s a guy with a boxer in his Cascade camper- based in San Diego. His channel name is William Shaker. His was the first Cascade Camper I ever saw so it started me looking. My van is very unstealthy. Kinda limiting.
I mostly stealth camp or go to campsites so finding bathrooms is not an issue for me. I know some people have a bucket but the PMC is a bit too small for that to be very comfortable imo
![$6k RAM Promaster City Camper Van Conversion Tour by Zach from Cascade Campers [4K]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1_Yq4XlZLCQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Ty for sharing. Considering $8k I am happy with DIY and learning. Minivans have been excellent for me. Toyota Sienna with 58,000 miles was $16,500 with taxes in California. My one complaint is storing the seats when in camper mode. The positives are that it there are lots of used options, drive comfort, power windows, locks, cruise, double sliding doors and easily serviced anywhere. The interior box is just right for two and a trailer hitch carries bikes or storage. Two 100 watt solar panels are pipe clamped to my roof rack. Almost no drilling into the van. Converted back to carry 7 in less than an hour. I full time and store the seats.
was just checking out some of your older videos then this popped up. im looking into getting the promaster city for road trips and camping. glad to see you making videos again.
Very nice! I've found it's a game changer to have a camper van. You get a lot of options and freedom. Enjoy!
Been missing your videos, glad to see you're back
Thanks for your review. This is my future and you're making my decision much easier. I to am renting a Cascade Camper this summer to try it out. I'm sure it will be just fine.😎
Glad it was helpful!
Very interesting and detail packed!
I found it import that you mentioned the community, something I haven’t seen talked about enough when getting a prebuilt conversion.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the video. Your video 3 years ago directed me to CC. I love Zac's philosophy and my CC van. Looking forward to more videos in the future. From #139.
Glad to hear it helped! See you on the forums!
Ooo Great to see you again..Looking healthy and Smart .. Thanks for your vids..Be well.
Hey #006! Like your honest reviews and your posts even though some of them are tech heavy for me 🙂. I have a PM City and have put the Wayfarer floor and insulation in it for camping this spring. It really helped for sound proofing and keeping it warmer in the van. SD was -26 F a few days ago🥶.
Glad you liked them! The Wayfarer floor is quite an interesting feature, especially how it makes the furniture removable. Stay warm out there!
Oh, come on. San Diego has NEVER been -26F.
@@6sfo South Dakota!
Nice share! Great work on your dream!
Love your channel. Would love to know the rest of the story!
Hey Smart Van! Glad to see you again! Question: How has the Wayfarer insulation held up so far? Is it still a purchase you recommend for full-timing?
Hey Kimberly, it does its job, but it is a bit pricey. With the Cascade furniture and panels in the way, you end up only taking advantage of maybe 60% of the insulation kit too (I removed one of the wood panels in favor of the Wayfarer panel to keep things warmer). When I have time I'd like to make something custom from foam and fabric. It'll look better too since I don't take advantage of its removability much.
I don't know if they sell individual pieces (you can ask Ian by email), but I really like their rear window panels, they're better at blocking out light than the default cascade curtains and insulate better too.
Thanks for the update. It seems the big potential problem is the Promaster City. I am on a Promaster City facebook discussion group. The reviews are mixed. Some people don't have problems and some people have nothing but problems. Nonetheless the camper setup seems ideal.
It would be great if Cascade converted other vans.
Yes I agree with this assessment. I'm the least impressed with the PMC. Cascade used to convert Fords too but has since gone full time into the PMC, supposedly because there were other common issues with the Transit Connect and the NV200 after enough miles.
There's another conversion group called small Vans Big World that convert Ford Transit Connects, and their work looks amazing
They have CZcams videos showing their conversion, I just don't know how much the conversion is
But I would imagine it's more than this and you're right not a lot of companies will do the Ford Transit Connect or Dodge ProMaster because of how small they are
I defiantly am looking forward to your updated video on Cascade Camper Vans
For Cascade Campers, it’s 200$ more for an extra fan/vent. They also install windows if your van didn’t come with them: ”COST: one side window $500, two side windows $800, back windows $800”. You should mention Wayfarer Vans can ship you their camper kit as it is not a permanent install (that may be an advantage for some, easier to sell the van or move the kit to a newer van. Also makes using the van to haul cargo when you need to possible). Wayfarer Vans now offers the option to install a Maxx Air Fan but for that you would have to bring them your van (obviously). I think the only ones who make and install a pop top for the Promaster City are Colorado Camper Vans but I don’t think it’s worth it. Might as well just go with a Promaster high roof at that point.
Yes these are all good points. I use the Wayfarer insulation in my van and Ian (wayfarer owner) has been very helpful over email!
Cascade windows are optional from my understanding, my van has no side windows (and I prefer it that way).
Nice 3 yr observation 😁👍🏻, its not about the bells and whistles its about making it your own ! Thats all that matters BRAH ! ROCK ON !!! 👊😎
Thank you for your honest review. I have been thinking of getting one of these.
Been following you since the start. Great review from CASCADE CAMPER #42- the answer to the universe!! I will second everything you said. The forum is great. We actually just sold our CC when we got kids, but would buy another one for sure. You are awesome. I look for your videos.
What a great name for a great number! Thanks for following :)
Great. Video. They now offer two fans as standard. I want to install a higher quality lithium battery instead of the standard battery. Thank you...
Hi Smart Van,
I've been following you from the beginning - thank you for your informative videos. I've always noticed your CC has what appears to be a small flip up table, but I've never seen you talk about the feature, nor do I see the feature on CC's website. Can you tell me about what looks to be the small table. I'm very interested in the CC, and would like to have the flip up table option.
I'm thrilled to see a new and very informative video from you about the CC - thank you! : )
Good observation! When I rented the CC for the first time 3 years ago I noticed that it was hard to work on a laptop so I bought some folding tables on amazon and zach helped me install it during the build. I've since seen that others have gotten the same table installed in their cascade campers, so when you're chatting with Zach, just ask about the side table! I think it costs a bit extra and takes away about an inch and a half from the bed when folded down, but is very much worth it. Thanks for watching!
Hi Smart Van,
Thank you! Any chance you can post a photo(s) of the table in action. And details of the actual table you purchased to be installed. Many thanks! : )
@@annestafford3080 Ah now I remember, I bought these www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076D7K2GJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 off of amazon and zach built the table portion custom, which is why it matches the appearance of the other cascade furniture. My purchase history shows me getting the 10 inch arms.
Thanks for sharing. I am researching for a micro van conversion project.
Really finding the videos useful. I'm looking at getting a Cascade Camper.
Glad I could help!
Why the Ram Promaster instead of the Ford small van or Nissan small van?
Nice rig!
This was so helpful thank you so much for sharing
How well has the promaster city held up for you? Any mechanical issues?!
Very well done video. Will the 2022 promasters still have the oil consumption problem?
Why did you have blue masking tape on all your open seams, and on your fuel tank door?
Thanks Again For Sharing
Great review. Thanks.
They don’t charge extra for the 2nd vent fan, and now give you a collapsible bucket for the sink drain.
I just bought a CC (3 days so far) and have a really dumb question. It’s night and I suddenly wanted to see if the refrigerator was on or off, so I went into the garage and got in the van and can only find a way to turn the red interior lights on. Maybe tomorrow when I look in daylight I’ll see for myself how to turn the white lights on, but can you tell me how?
And thank you for your videos. I find that I’m really nervous about all the things I never had to think about before and I calm down when I watch your efficient and detailed presentation.
Hey there, no worries we all went through the same learning period! The white lights are switched with a button on the light itself in my van, though that may be different with newer versions. I also hung up some USB fairy lights I bought on Amazon because the light is softer and more home-like. I control it with a USB 4 port switch with buttons (the one by Saberent)
Hi, do you have any regrets about not going with a full-size Promaster high top? What are your thoughts on why you did not go this route? Thanks
I wanted to fit in parking garages because I stealth camp in the city a lot. Otherwise high top promaster would be a lot more comfy.
Hi! Loved the video!
Wondering if any of the Cascade Campervans are for sale via the forum? Thought you might have a lead on this since you’re a part of the community. Cheers 🙏
Yea, Zach has a few listed on their website sometimes, but it varies, just have to get lucky.
Don't forget to include the upscale and affordable Oasis Campers!
Red lighting (combined with warm colors on all your screens) also encourages good sleep by releasing melatonin that white (daylight color) lighting suppresses.
Great update! Few questions. Do you recommend getting the 1 or 2 side windows or none? Would you get the Cascade sticker? Would a rooftop cargo holder impede on the solar? What are your thoughts about sleeping with the car running for AC? Thanks
Personally I like no side windows for stealth, and then just opening the door when camping. The cascade sticker I like for stealth, but it's just a vinyl and can be easily removed. Rooftop cargo holder does impede solar, the way the cells work, afaik it wants light on all or else power is greatly reduced. I've slept in the van with AC on before in the desert, it works but is a bit loud. This summer I want to set it up to automatically turn AC on when it gets warm and turn off the engine when it gets cool enough, similar to what I've done with engine heating (see my latest videos). Thanks for watching!
@@SmartVan Thanks! I have a great tip. Mack's Pillow earplugs ( Silicone ). They literally make you deaf so you can sleep. No comparison to the foam ones.
Excellent video 👍👍
Thanks for the review! I was wondering how the 75ah battery has been working with the Domestic CF-25. Is it enough power? It seems like a small battery but I don't have first hand experience. I have a Promaster city that I am just starting to build out. Trying to spec the right electrical system, but getting a lot of inspiration from the Cascade Camper. Thanks!
No problem! It's enough power in the summer when there's daily sun but it will drain the house battery after a week if you don't get sun and you don't run the engine. Getting the insulation helps though, and I use engine heating to stay warm in the winter so it comes with battery charging.
75AH works for the cascade camper: if you typically cycle 40AH (40AH*12V = 480WH) then you should be able to charge with 100W solar in 4.8 hours (a day of good sun) or the 900W engine alternator in half an hour (in practice it feels like it takes longer).
I know some people have gotten their conversions with 2 battery banks but to maintain the same behavior (of being able to fully charge your battery in a single day of sun) you'll want to double up panels too.
@@SmartVan thank you thank you thank you! Exactly what I wanted to know.
How does it do offroad? dirt/bumpy roads? Thanks!
Why not split the couch back into two cushions so you have cross air circulation and open space?
IF you do serious winter camping, what is the best heat source for the Cascade Campers besides running the van's motor?
Check out my video on the topic! czcams.com/video/MykupKDwW0A/video.html
When you sit on the bench, can you sit upright? If so, how much clearance do you have? Many thanks.
Great video. Very useful. How long is the bed? Thanks
Thanks, I don't have it off the top of my head but the bed measurements are somewhere in the comments as a reply
How about long-term review comments on that "carpet kit" you got from Wayfarer to cover up some of the metal bits in the back ? (I remember the video when you first got them). Still happy with it ? Would you consider taking it to a car shop and have them cover the metal with trunk liner carpet instead , after stuffing some insulation inside the pillars ?
No regrets because I needed the insulation kit at the time, but if you have the time to do something better fitting I bet you could get it done for less than the price wayfarer charges (now $1900). Let me know how it goes, I might switch to something custom if it fits better!
I have a Promaster City Wagon SLT. Can the back seats be taken out to facilitate conversion or not?
Very nice
Thanks for the review. Did a search for Cascade Campers Customer Forum but nothing popped up similar to the screen shot in the review. Can you provide a link?
Hi Art, it's a private forum for customers. You can email Zach for any questions on the cascade website, best way to get in the forums is to get a Cascade Camper!
I ask Cascade if I could buy plans for bed he said I couldn't, I am doing a build in Toronto, as driving there and with currency exchange would make it unfeasible, I am dying to know how to build that sofa bed!?
I trust and rely on your opinion Smartvan. Do you feel the PMC is a worthy vehicle in its own right?
Hmm, the PMC isn't the best car I've driven for sure, but as far as I know it's the better option within its class and price range (vs NV and transit connect).
Love your video! I'm #118 Mini. I also agree that the mattress is a little too firm. I was just wondering what mattress topper you use? I've tried the self inflating pad and they still aren't very comfortable. Thanks
Hey there, glad you liked it!
I use this thing: DreamFoam Memory Foam Topper www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019J9AT12
It's very luxurious, I've tried other foam toppers but this one has a good density. I bought it in full size.
I traced the cascade foam mattress to cut out a form fitting shape. The foam got beat up without being wrapped in fabric to protect it, so I found a fitted sheet to wrap it with. You can sew it shut to fit and add buttons or velcro patches so its removable to wash.
@@SmartVan Thanks for getting back to me. Where did you store it when not using?
@@franobrigewitsch6704 I roll it up and leave it on the couch or passenger seat. Because its foam it will also compress into a milk carton but it does some damage to the material if done too often
Hello Their Your Camper Van It's A Cool Camper Van I Do Like YES
Do you get the recall on the engine for high oil consumption?
Hi great video. I have a couple questions. When you take the bed down in stealth mode (with doors closed) how many inches are between the bed and door width and length wise? Also do you ever just sleep on the bench only and do you feel it’s wide enough to sleep if you remove the back cushion? I’m not going to live in it, just maybe a month max. Mostly for camping, not too much for stealth. Thanks!
A bit more than 14 inches between the bed and the door. I haven't tried sleeping on just the lower half yet, but it's 21 inches wide. In terms of mattress size, that's less than twin (39 in) and less than a standard crib (27 in)
@@SmartVan thanks, yeah pretty narrow. Good luck with your adventures. Your electrical and technical knowledge is awesome!
But my Thermarest Neoair camp mattress is 20” wide, so I think I would be quite comfortable sleeping on it in sofa mode. 👍
Good stuff :)
Hey dude, I'm scheduled to get my cascade camper on the 28th! Are you still doing full van life or got an apartment / home? Curious about your situation.
Congrats! See you in the cascade forums!
My situation varies, I'm currently living out of the van and will for a few more months at least. I managed to secure a more permanent bathroom situation, which makes it easier.
@@SmartVan Did you get a cassette potty? I have thought about doing that but not sure where to keep it as it looks like it won't fit under the bed... let me know what your solution is.
Just subscribed
If you have a moment, do you know the height from the seat to the roof? I’m trying to determine if I would have to slump over.
It's about 34 inches minimum up to 36 inches max due to the curvature of the roof. Maybe also account for a couple inches of compression in the foam.
Where do you keep your spare tire and do you have a hitch in back in case you need to get pulled of the mud. If I can resolve those two issues this would be the perfect van set up for me :-)
There is a spare tire well under the vehicle. I have a trailer hitch installed, I use it for carrying bikes and the like
@@SmartVan I am so glad to hear this!! Thank you, thank you : -) Thumbs up, subscribed.
I would run my drain line closer to the front wheels. That way people will think I have a busted coolant hose. 😂😂😂
Outta my price range. Give me a few boxes, cooler, sleeping bag, I'm all set! Lol
Short Answer IS that it's probably STILL A BARGAIN today, 7/20/22 ! Especially against Apartment Rents in So Cal !!!
hello what kind of refrigerator do you use?
It's by Domestic, but I'm not sure they make this exact model still. It was at least hard to find fridge covers for it.
Hey Smart Van, do you know where I can get a seat/bed made for my Ford Transit Mini Cargo Van?
Check out Contra vans, I recently looked into them and they have an interesting setup, more geared towards non stealth camping.
@@SmartVan My Van is all set up, it was done by gearbox adventure vans in Alabama. I love the couch in your van, it wounded perfect in mine. Just need to find someone out west where I am now, I thought about trying to order just the couch from Cascade. Do you know if they would sell just the couch? I sent them a message a couple of weeks ago and I haven’t heard anything. Thank for your feed back...... Beth
@@bethullian-burton4640 Last I heard Zach no longer does custom builds anymore. No harm in asking though, at least 3 years ago I had seen him convert a transit connect mini cargo van, but that might be the last one out there :/
Smart Van, check out DLM camper vans out of Minnesota. That’s exactly my van, but without the couch. I love it
The grey panels and window covers look like they purchased them from Wayfair.
Yup, Wayfair sells a la carte. A bit pricey is my only complaint, but needed at the time.
@@SmartVan That's cool. I purchased a 2015 new from a dealer in 2017 for 19.5. i had it for 2 years, really liked it. I considered the Wayfair, but it was pricey. I ended up just getting these 3 large lightweight boxes, a battery, and used a bug exterminator sprayer for water. i went camping in it about 15 times. The only thing i would have added if i kept it was some bigger more off road ready tires and a lift kit or springs that would lift it a bit. I investigated the ford and the Nisan alternatives, but the Ram seemed the most reliable and largest cargo area.
Do they pay you or give you a discount for having their logo on the side of the van?
Nope, all cascade vans come with the logo as a vinyl sticker. I've kept it because I think it helps with stealth. If they get too well known and identifiable as a camper I'd swap it for another logo with no text.
@@SmartVan got it
Would you buy it again for $8000?
Last I checked it was still the most fully featured conversion you could buy for a PMC at this price, so I think it's still worth it
@@SmartVan Do you still live in it full time? I am considering doing this to live full time as well but I have a dog that I want to sleep on the floor. Does this conversion leave some room by the curtain side door area for the dog to sleep? (not in the front seat area cuz then it wouldn't be stealth)
@@PetroHead You'll have a bit over a ft of space there, so your dog would need to be small to fit
@@SmartVan hes a boxer so I don't think that will work. Dang.
There’s a guy with a boxer in his Cascade camper- based in San Diego. His channel name is William Shaker. His was the first Cascade Camper I ever saw so it started me looking. My van is very unstealthy. Kinda limiting.
what do you do about bathroom?
I mostly stealth camp or go to campsites so finding bathrooms is not an issue for me. I know some people have a bucket but the PMC is a bit too small for that to be very comfortable imo
It's called INFLATION. When arugula was $2.99 in 2018 and is now $4.39: (same producer/size/supermarket)
What happened to your beautiful long hair?
Price of Lumber at time of video went thru the roof. Lumber is going down on cost so price should be going back down.
If your fiat van has 100k kilometers mileage on the engine and doesn't burn oil , your good !
Where does the spare tire go?
There's a spare tire well under the vehicle. I don't use it though, was kind of hoping to use that space for other storage tanks
@@SmartVan
I hear this sort of thing from people a lot recently. How is it that you feel that you don’t need a spare tire in your vehicle?
I camp mainly in cities or nearby and I'm always within range of AAA. If I spent more time outside of that I would definitely have a spare.
Ditch that van before the junk Fiat motor dies.
Haha! I don't know about their quality but I remember a joke for what Fiat stands for: 'Fix it Again, Tony'
( prices go up largely due to "mans" GREED)