VAN LIFE ELECTRONICS Start to Finish (Learn solar wiring here)
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- čas přidán 28. 07. 2024
- Ryan shows 10 Van Life Electronics Examples in vans and skoolies. Learn how to wire basic solar parts for your DIY Camper Van. You'll learn how to connect your Batteries to the Solar Charge Controller, and then to the Solar Panels. Within these 10 different van life examples, you'll see bus life wiring, campervan electrical, RV electronics, and solar parts and components.
VIDEO DISCLAIMER:
I, Ryan Bell, am not liable for any person who, by using the information in the video, is hurt, loses money, wastes time, or damages property. This video is for entertainment purposes only.
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SCHEMATIC, PRODUCTS, and SOLAR WALK-THROUGH
CHECKLIST:
Coming Soon
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-- Buy Recommended Van Build Items HERE -- (Electronics)
sites.google.com/view/outdoor...
-- 3D Van Build SOFTWARE -- (Drag and Drop 3D Van Builder)
vanspace.samcart.com/referral...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Battery
Choose One of the Following
- Deep Cycle AGM (Get deep cycle at local RV store)
- Lithium Iron Phosphate - amzn.to/3zkkYyi
Solar Panels
amzn.to/3ag2JxX (DO NOT mix and match panels. All must have the same specs. Go with Monocrystalline)
Solar Charge Controller
amzn.to/2vox0vt (Pick One)(Bonus: Buy one with a split charger so you can also use the unit as a battery isolator to charge the battery with solar AND vehicle alternator. Otherwise, you’ll need to buy a seperate battery isolator below to do this.)
Wires
3 Sizes of Wire Needed in both RED and BLACK:
Connecting all main components (Stranded 8 - 10 AWG)
amzn.to/3ckDUmg (8 AWG RED)
amzn.to/2TrUMif (8 AWG BLACK)
Connecting all lower powered appliances (Stranded 12 - 16 AWG)
amzn.to/389wAXs (12 RED and BLACK)
amzn.to/389KzfP (14 RED and BLACK)
Connecting Battery Isolator (0 - 4 AWG) (Link Below in Isolator Sets)
amzn.to/2TpIiI2 (1/0 AWG RED or BLACK)
amzn.to/2TuvSi7 (4 AWG RED or BLACK)
MC4 Wire
amzn.to/2voP4pr (for connecting solar panels, choose length according to your needs)
MC4 Y Branch
amzn.to/2Tn1k1z (You might need more if you have many solar panels and depending on how you intend to wire them.
If you have 2 panels in parallel, you will need 2 Y Branches.
If you have 3 panels in parallel, you will need 4 Y Branches.
If you have 4 panels in parallel, you will need 6 Y Branches.)
Z Bracket for Mounting Solar Panel
amzn.to/32Arfar
RV Roof Sealant and Dicor Butyl Tape
amzn.to/39lcLgU (for installing solar panels and roof fan)
Fuse Box
amzn.to/3814eyo (Pick one)
Fuse Set
amzn.to/2vqjnMi (This will be all you need)
In-Line Fuse for Battery
amzn.to/2HZI9pm (This will be all you need)
Negative Terminal
amzn.to/2PvMQLD (Unless Fuse Box has Negative Terminals)
Crimp Connectors and Eyelet Connectors
amzn.to/2TqWbpr (For 10 - 12 AWG)
Inverter
amzn.to/3ckkWfk (Size just above the total watts you will use at once, look at the house appliance’s wattage ratings and add them up to get the total.)
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Optional Electronics to Buy:
MT-50 Battery Voltage Monitor
amzn.to/32J91DP
Battery Monitor to read %
amzn.to/2TxmFFU
Battery Isolator Sets:
Blue Sea Relay (for Lead Acid)
amzn.to/2T9fchf
1260 Sterling (for Lithium)
amzn.to/3a5LeAa
Hydraulic Crimping Tool (Needed for big wire gauges)
amzn.to/2uAyKkY (Included in Isolator Sets Above)
Goal Zero (Solution if you do not want to install any electronics)
amzn.to/2I2VywR (All Models on One Page)
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-- ALL ITEMS USED IN MY PERSONAL BUILD --
amzn.to/2XXMwI8
#outdoorsembrace #vanlifeelectronics #solarpower
Full Electronics Walk-Through, including solar panel installation and product list here:
www.outdoorsembrace.com
Can you tell me, is there a way to verify that a used Lithium battery is in good condition? I know nothing about this other than what I'm learning on YT. Would you buy one from a private seller as on Craig's list? Or should I look elsewhere?
Is an MPPT used if one does not have solar panels but is recharging a Lithium battery when the van is running?
This randomly came across a recommendation. I am sure many people appreciate this post specifically. Just felt compelled to say hello and thank you🤙
I just bought a van to try and escape wild rent hikes. Your videos have been awesome and a big help. Thanks!
This is easily the most informative video I've seen about wiring a entire electrical system on CZcams, and I've seen a Ton! I not only watched it until the end, I also recorded it, and took a ton of screen shots. This is brilliant.
OMG I have been researching vanlife for over 2 years and the solar and electric is what has made me drag my feet for SO long. After watching this I think I can do this!!! I saved it in two different places and am thinking I'm capable if I go step by step with your video. Thank you!!! Best how to and in depth instructions I have watched!!! Awesome video!
Hell yeah! If you have questions while you are doing it, message here or add me on FB.
I'm living off grid to save for a rig and the time is here. This helps me no matter what I end up with... Thank you
I made it to the end....was kinda sad it was over. I was learning more than i did in school...lol. Love your van build,and your videos.
Watched every minute of this video, and some more than once going back to listen again, and I realize that you might not read this since this is a year plus later. Just want you to know that your's was the clearest presentation I've seen. You do such a good idea of expressing things in a simple way. Thanks so much.
Thank you!
Well I did watch the whole thing because I’m trying to educate myself, so I can build my own system for full time Travel Trailer living.
This is the best solar tutorial on CZcams. Thank you.
I watched you all the way to the end and tried to absorb every single bit of information you threw out there. Wow! Thank you. I will be watching this video about a gazillion more times I expect. 🥰🥰🥰
Awesome video! I'm so glad you covered wire gauge size! People need to know how serious that is! Because they can burn their van down with the wrong gauge size! Thank you!
Yes! For sure!
I originally put your video on to listen in the background while I work, but it was more informative than I was anticipating so I got no work done and watched the entire video. Thank you for all the information.
Nice! Glad I could help! I'll be making a new updated one soon too, with my new van as the basis to show off. I'll go into greater detail on certain things in this new video
Dude, THANK YOU. Best electrical tutorial on You Tube.
Just finished the entire video 😂 best video explaining the electrical side of van building!!
I watched the whole video and I really did gain a better understanding solar and battery management,,,,,, thanks.
Watched until the very end, very informative, I'm helping my brother with his van and you just save me a ton of time, money and hustle.
Im coming out with more electronics videos right now too! There is a new solar panel video up packed with info
I watched it to the end and I need to watch it another five times! I want all the power the last lady had but in a pro master van build. Minus the washer dryer obviously. 3000 watt inverter 709-800 amp hours of lithium and 800 to 1000 watts of solar. No propane. Induction cook top, toaster over, coffee maker, and microwave. One laptop and phone. Oh and a small water heater.. also the standard ceiling fan, lights, water pump. I like the UV water purifiers. Unsure how much power those take. Good information. Thank you!
You could be able to get away with that! I can see it.
Thank you for rewatching!
Watched to the end. Very informative and dispelling of the “black magic” feeling I have around electrical set ups and how they work. Thank you
I like your explanation of electrical systems. Forgot some of that data in my 73 year old ancient head🤪 LOL…
Holy Crap. I learned more in a 30 minute video from this guy, than I've learned at various jobs over 1-2 WEEK paid training courses. Wiring setup was my biggest fear, but now I can just refer back to this video.
Very informative in a straight forward way. Something tells me that I will be watching it again and again. Thanks
Ah thank you!
this is the best explanation about 12v electronics i’ve seen . Thankyou so much i have learned a ton of stuff which i will bear in mind when sorting out my van . ❤
I watched all the way thru to the end. I just bought a van used as a windshield install work truck. It came with a 1500-watt pure sine inverter that was professionally installed. They ran thick cables thru a fuse mounted by the truck battery to an isolator behind the driver seat where the house battery and inverter sit. The inverter is connected to the house battery with a type of connector that I have seen on electric forklifts. All of the wiring is the same heavy gauge and is all run thru plastic corrugated shielding.
Ryan, This video is very nicely & professionally done. I'm pleased to see how far you have come. I know you are enjoying the process as well as the fruit of your efforts. As one of your aunts, I'm very proud of you. Love you, See you soon.
Watched all the way to the end. How incredibly detailed, thx. I've saved this video for future "need to know" moments.
I seen it all because I am now installing my system. Thank you!
Aweosme walkthrough! I’m currently planning on converting my 6x12 cargo trailer into a camper/toy hauler. I have to plan everything around the 600lbs bike, so this should be fun. Also, Needs to fit me, my wife, and 3 kids 👍🏽
I've been watching a bunch of van build videos, and this is the best I have seen on the electrics. One thing I I was glad to see was good wire crimping, especially the high current terminals. I've seen a few videos where it was obviously just squashed in a vice or pliers, which can result in a bad connection. even 30A is a lot of current, through a bad connection it can cause a lot of heat. If there is hydrogen build up, or propane, and a poor connection causes a spark - that would be bad.
Well I watched to the end, understood none of it (well, it is 4:30am…), liked the video and am now commenting! 😊
Oh man! Haha, well thank you so much for the comment!
From a Jarhead to a Squidly. Loved the video. Glad I found it. Thanks. Yeah I know it’s 3 years old but still relevant information.
Still relevant! Thanks man!
I'll actually be making another soon too with my new van's electronics system as the main example. I believe it's one of the best yet most simple designs to carry anyone into van life, full time gamers or just people who want to camp with a light. New video will also show how to power something like a microwave in a van.
Your videos helped me out a lot on my first van. Recently upgraded to a high top after 2 years in my 1996 Chevy. Thanks!
Hell yeah! I'll be upgrading soon too!
Most helpful video I've found so far that explains the electronic component of van life. Thanks dude!
Welcome man!
I just got a tiktok ad and an old spice ad back to back. This dude is making that money!
Fuck yeah haha
@@OutdoorsEmbrace im converting a 4runner to live my dreams im going to put propane tanks on the roof of my car with a propane generator, grill/mini oven, and heater. Im going to charge my battery with the cigarette lighter (when the car is on then unplug charger when car is off) then charge a battery with that battery to push my altinator to its limits hahah. The bed is going on the ground/floor board so i don't hit my head when i wake up but then im building a table/bench going from one wheel well to the other. And i got a little 2 gallon chemical toilet so i can fit the waste tank in a book bag to empty anywhere. My gray water also 2 gallon to fit in my bookbag. Oh and a little drain pan and curtain to squirt water on me for a quick wash. I have no fridge so i have to go with non parishable food so peanut butter, fruit, and powdered milk here i come.
Any advice?
Thanks for making it simple. First video I watched that actually made sense and was not “selling” a product. I appreciate that you gave lots of ideas. Thank You!
I know this video took a lot of work and time. And I am forever thankful for your video. Thank you.
Yes! Sweet! Thank you!
This is the most informative video I've been able to find, and you answered every question I've been pondering lately. Thank you so much!!
I really don't know why i got here, I'm just looking for a pc build.
Still watched the whole thing. great job, awesome explanation. Now i want to build my own van setup.
definitely watched to end. I'm so stoked to do one of these builds. Just need to find the right vehicle at the right price.
Washed it to the end. One of the few let Tronic videos that I actually enjoyed and can learn from thank you
I watched the whole thing. Fantastic info man. I am a combat vet from OIF and am in the middle of a divorce. I just bought a 2011 windowless Ford E 350 with a rebuilt engine for 6k. I’m about to have it looked at mechanically and then begin the stripping process. Thank you so much for your videos. They are the most informative I’ve seen yet. You have given me hope that I am not about to drown in loneliness and misery, but thrive in a new life filled with free time, less stress, and adventure. God bless you.
Fantastic video on off grid electrical systems , well done 👍 and yes I watched till the end 😉
I watched the whole video. I plan on living the van life full time and think the electrical set up is the most important. Your videos are extremely helpful.
Really really great video.
One thing I would say though is that you can definitely run a fuse box off of the "Load", and maybe in fact SHOULD do this. Provided you have a half decent controller, it should cut out when the voltage (charge) on the batter gets too low, thereby extending battery life.
So if you can think about what ampage you may need from your charge controller, this should definitely be an option.
I'm going to be making an updated video on this topic with my new van. It will include much of this similar content, but be updated with new content more relevant for people to figure out their own system in an easy way, like how to size the charge controller and wires. Honestly this was a great video for it, with all the examples I showed, but the new video might be even more helpful for everyone. Hopefully
Wife and i want to make a camping van. But I'm wiring up my dad's wood shed first to practice and learn. This has been the most helpful video I've seen on DIY solar system for small use.
I need Ryan as a helpful neighbor to my build
Thanks for taking the time to go through these. Full of handy little tips
I watched all the way to the end, where is the *LOVE*
Love!
@@OutdoorsEmbrace OH YEAH!
There it is
@@BAGINAZARD here is another!
You dream big and I'll dream bigger. You're my pal and I'm your
Awesome video. Really helpful, not just for van life but for anyone interested in diy electronics in general.
Hell yeah man! Thank you!
IT guy by profession here, helping my friend build his Van out (the IT realm makes me familiar with electricity). Thanks for the video! I will be contacting you with any questions we have!
I watched it all but I'll admit, I didn't understand it all so I'm probably going to have to watch it a few more times. Thank you for making this.
Thanks am about to start my first build and this video is the best I've seen on solar power setups. Appreciate your time
Definitely! Thank you
I watched from beginning to end. I too was in the Navy and worked on shipboard guided missile radar systems. I am in the process of installing my electrical system into a converted school bus. I have LiFePO4 batteries that total 24V, 300ah, 60A MPPT charge controller, and 1700W of roof top solar. This was a very informative video. Thank you.
Thanks for the awesome tutorial 👍 I have 2008 E 250 that I am converting into a mini RV. This video will be a big help when it comes to running all the electrical components….
Seriously comprehensive! Watched to the end 👌
one of the best electronics video for VanLife...really appreciate your information and efforts!! Awesome
Okay - this is excellerated you tube university!! You go fast. I have replayed and replayed. I think I’m starting to understand. Bottom line it’s doable. I love that you are showing different situations. Thank you for the information. Please be patient with us less gifted souls who are learning from the ground up. Thank you for your generosity of putting the information out there. The fact that you were so comprehensive helped me a lot,
This was the MOST informative video on van electronics I have seen --exactly what i was looking for. I am now subscribed! Thanks
Definitely the best all-in-one video for anyone wanting to do a vehicle solar setup. Thanks for the upload.
I just subscribed to your channel today. I have been a nomad in a vintage step van for 9 years and your channel is by far one of the best comprehensive and lamens in solar. Great job I will share your videos when ever possible. Thanks and great job👍😎
Thanks for the information. The most informative I've seen yet. Wanting to turn my toy hauler into a mobile recording studio while I camp the van. Watched all the way to the end, very good!!
I wished I viewed this before I did my van electronic/power set up
Well done - to the end...
I watched till the end.
This really helped my dude. Things that may seem obvious can sometimes be scary and confusing without an electrical background.
BRILLIANT ! i was slammed with the right information, at exactly the right time, saving my ass.. , cleared focus, preventing pain and suffering! Thank you so much! Your The Man! I lived in a tent for 7 years homeless. I'm rich beyond belief!
This video is amazing , have a lot examples with deafferents electric system .
You don't waste time, maybe you don't go too deep, but that's what makes it fast and efficient.
Thanks y pura vida!
I watched to the very end.
Great video. I am learning all I can before installing a solar system in my class A MH. This video was right at my level. It wasn't too elementary, but still challenged my thinking. Also, I liked all the examples. - And, yes, I watched to the end. Thanks for sharing.
Your a wonderful and compassionate soul... Science has found the soul and have taken a slice of it to study.. it was called "Fillet of Soul"
This is thee best video on youtube......the graphs , visuals and examples with explanation was stunning....thank you kindly. And thank goodness eye was subscribed.
Thank you so much for that compliment! It's what I was hoping for!
I watched the video form start to finish, very informative as I'm going to be living the van life for a few years to fund the life of my dreams. Your videos by far are the most informative in CZcams. Again, for sharing this invaluable information with all of us.
Thank you!
I try haha! I don't plan on stopping either!
My first campervan was a minivan. I had 1 Renogy 255 watt solar panel, 3 VMax SLR 155 watt batteries and a 3,000 watt inverter.
I had a kitchen with a sink, a 700 watt microwave, a college dorm refrigerator, and a slow cooker. I used a 28" monitor as a TV, which I connected my cell phone by a DeX Dock. I had a bathroom with a toilet and a 5 gal camper bag shower. Under my bed was my closest. My clothes went in to plastic tubes. I had blankets, winter sheets, summer sheets, winter clothes, and summer clothes.
In the back of my van was my electronic bay. This is where everything was that ran all the electricity to my campervan.
I've since moved to a full size van. Which this year broke down. It will cost more to repair then fix. So, now I'm on the hunt for another full size van.
Damn! Sorry to hear you gotta find a new one now! That would really suck for me, I know! I can only imagine. Ugg
@@OutdoorsEmbrace, if things work out I hope to get a good deal...lol
I lived in my minivan for 2 years and then I lived in my full size van for over 2 years. I got good use out of it.
I've been wanting a newer van anyways.
I like to design. So after awhile I start looking for a new project.
hello RYAN my name is Emilliano. I am 68. Retired. I retired after 28 yrs as an Airline Captain so I have some knowledge of electricity but NOT like you. wow ...anyway after 6 years a little hurricane named IRMA (Cat 5) hit the Caribbean where I was living with my 20 dogs. I lost everything. gone. moved to Mass with Sister to recover. I was severely injured. Now after two years I am starting my next adventure. I bought a 170 xt Sprinter and am doing a conversion. I plan to hit the streets running Dec 1. By then this Pandemic should be settled out a bit. I build and fly FPV (drones ..kwads..) and plan to fly in all 50 States and have fun doing videos. I now have just 4 dogs and we will have new adventure. YAHOO ! I watch a LOT of videos. Yours are #1 ! I am serious. EXCELLENT ! Thank You !
Wow! Thank you for commenting! This is so awesome, sounds like you've had great adventures already! Van Life is so amazing though, will definitely be a new adventure! I'm happy you're doing this!
This is my first video from you I've watched. I work in Avionics. You are very detailed in your explanations.
I did a year of research before building my first campervan. I've lived the camper life for almost 5 years.
I've also designed and built an electric bicycle. I can go 36mph for a distance of 25 miles.
Not sure if you saw the ending where I said I worked in Avionics Electronics, but hey friend! I worked on Helos in the Navy.
That bicycle thing is cool! Some day I want to bike pack the A1A in Florida or some other part of the country!
@@OutdoorsEmbrace, Yes, I did see the whole video.
I watched every second. Kept rewinding so I probably watched 3 times.
Hell yeah! That's awesome for us both! Thank you!
@@OutdoorsEmbrace I'm trying to learn as much I can. Some things still go over my head but I know more now than I did a few months ago. Progress.
I would like to get into RV electronics . I am a guitar amp tech , so I could also learn RV electronics . I could help wire in a system and/or I could also repair any charge inverter down to component level as long as I have the proper schematics.
Wow! I think I get it. Well better than before I watched it. Thanks for taking your time to do it!
I watched to the end. Thanks!
Watched it till the end :) I’m planning to convert a van by the end/begging of next year. So all of this is so helpful! I want to be super ready by when the time comes i can not only set up my system but also maintaining it while on the road.
this kept me watching for 32 minutes. Just good information and i could not believe how far off my wants and needs were
Hey man. Just finished the video. Thanks for the content! I just recently bought a 1996 ram 1500 with only 68k miles and basing the build off your great white! Already finished cleaning it out, insulating the floor/framing floor. Plywood down. Currently getting mechanical stuff in shop worked on but once I get it back the laminate and electronics will be going in! Still don’t completely understand it all but moving forward regardless.
Made it to the end. Great info. Saved it, took notes and downloaded. Lol. Best video for sure on systems.
Watched all the way to the end, very helpful and informative video. Bookmarked for future reference as I know I'm gonna need to watch several times. Thumbs up 👍
This one was a very comprehensive and easy to follow intro to van life electrics. THX
Love the vid I'm about to get started so I'll probably see this video like 50 times
Great video! I am planning to down size my home a few years before I retire. I also want to by a mini school bus to convert over as my get away RV. The more I watch these videos the more i will learn the wiring system and sequence. also i am in anticipation of my Conversiob Van building harcover from Amazon today. Although i dont plan on living out of my van full time, i will plan on weeks on end of traveling the country. Keep posting videos i enjoyed learning anf you’re easy to listen too.
-Stephanie
I found it nice to understand system for my van
I watched till the end. Was very helpful!!
Amazing explanation and very useful! Watch it till the end lads and lassies! This really explains everything! ❤
Thank you so much.
I watched to the end and glad i did.
I stripped and re- wired my XL-40 conversion about a year ago with all new with 120v (18 outlets and 8 LED residential lights) and 24v wiring to 5 house lights and 120v/2500 watt inverter etc . . . and yet I stilled learned a lot about Solar and Low voltage systems . . and batteries. Thanks for the recommendations.
:)
I watched the whole thing. Thanks!
Thank you so much.
I did make it to the end, but the info in the video is reward enough for me.
Great informative video, I like how you broke down everything.
Thanks a lot! Watched your video 'til the very end and it is less scary to me now. I will watch it again though as there are a lot of informations (which you decyphered and highlighted very well).
This is fantastic! I've been searching for clear, specific information to help me figure out exactly what I need. Thank you!
Hank you! I watched until the end ❤
Very interesting i have been wanting to get myself into the van life but income and life always pushes me back. One day i hope to just get out of my everyday day to day meaningless life and explore. This video reminded me of my goal thanks.
Hell yeah, I'm a believer that there is never a good time to do something, you just gotta do it now... whatever it is
Watched all the way through. I believe this is my first video on the electronics aspect of the van build that has made me feel the most comfortable. I really appreciate your time and effort into this video and all you do.
Watched to the end
Great job, you explained it properly. I enjoyed it. thank you
watched till the end i am building the greatesr awd astro camper (jacked up 5 inches composting toilet fridge sitting for 4 queen sized bed and kitchen out the back doors) for my daughter and this was very informative solar set up is my weekness the rest doesnt scare me great video