How To Make D.I.Y. Promaster Roof Rack Clips - solar panel roof rack van conversion - Van Life
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- čas přidán 27. 07. 2021
- Every van conversion requires a roof rack. Solar panels, kayaks and a host of other things will be installed or stored on the roof of the van during the vanbuild. All vans are factory built differently to receive a roof rack, Mercedes Sprinter vans, and Ford Transit vans have holes in the roof to receive bolts to anchor a roof rack. FreedomVanGo roof racks, Arksen Cargo Racks, Yakima Lock-n-load systems, MaxxHaul Universal Steel, and Prime Design AluRack are all after market roof racks that need a way to attach to the roof. Dodge Promaster vans are built with studs that protrude from the roof. A wonderful way to attach a roof rack during the van build without making any holes in the roof. No Holes, and no van leaks. Perfect. Unforunately, the after market for clips that attach to these studs has been riddled with profiteers. People trying to take advantage of an unknowing consumer. It sucks …. I’m not a metal worker, but I’d like to believe that I have enough common sense coupled with building experience that I can design a roof clip for the masses that will be easy to build with rudimentary skills, minimal tools, inexpensive and reliable. I did it. I hope you find it useful.
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Where I got the aluminum for the roof clips www.metalsupermarkets.com/loc... - Jak na to + styl
I've been researching for hours and finally found this. It is exactly what I needed. This is so clever! Thank you for sharing this.
Thanks for watching and thanks for commenting ..... tell a friend :). Good luck and be well.
Also - I am preparing to publish my roof rack construction (under $ 200,00) and there was some adjustments I had to make because of the roof pitch as the clips and the rack married together ... you may find that useful.
What a find. Thank you for sharing 😊
@@chistinemartel9043 thanks for stopping by and commenting - hope you'll join the community .... Dave
Also a carpenter with limited metalworking experience. Been banging my head against a wall trying to figure out how to save money on the build while retaining quality and craftsmanship. I think this is a fantastic option, thank you for showing it
Hi J A thanks for watching and taking the time to comment - If you're going to tackle the clips you may not have seen this video about the roof rack itself ... czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html or this one that has more details and measurements for both ... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html - be sure to stop back and share your progress and any tweeks you come up with. Be well
Really nice that you shared this to help others.
Hello Ms Frankenbuilder - thanks for visiting and the really nice comment = I hope you'll stop back and join the community .... Be well ... Dave
‘This isn’t rocket surgery.’
And this came from????
Love it,
Finding your ingenious solution to the roof mounting problem for my van made me smile. Now all that I have to do is find a local source for aluminium of the required section and size and get to work fabricating! Thank you for sharing.
Hi @malpascru - thanks pal - finding comments like this when I open up my YT really makes ME smile. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment. I'm so glad you found it useful .... here is a closer look .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.htmlsi=S4QsV8NQxKnnh_rt send me some pics of your finished product. Be well and stop back..... Dave
Wonderful and creative design , bravo bravo !
Why, when I watch you, am I reminded of Red Green? (My Hero!) I love people like you! I am also a carpenter (and apprentice Red Green). You have inspired me to build my own roof rack clips for my Promaster. I also looked at the cost these companies are charging for the clips, insane! I get you want to make a profit but $44!!! That is taking advantage of of your customer base. On the other hand it inspires people like us and those below to improvise and come up with our own ideas. As they say "necessity is the mother of invention!" Great job! Thank you for the video! D from Utah. Remember "If the women don't find you handsome, they should at least find you handy." 🤣
Hi Dwayne - LOL I wish that was the first time I'd heard that. (I can't imagine anyone getting rich pretending to be me) .... anyway thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. These clips have been copied successfully by DIY builders all over the world - which really makes me smile. You'll see more detail here czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html and here czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html ... also, this spring I mounted an awning to the roof rack and it went on like it was made for it ..... czcams.com/video/tONCOtB_nMo/video.html - Send me some pics of how you do !!! Hope you'll join the community and come back. Keep your stick on the ice ..... Dave
@@VanOfAction I will check out those links Dave! Thanks for the encouragement! Excited to get this baby on the road! Who knows may have to come up to Canada and drop by on the maiden voyage!😂. All the best!👍
Excellent tutorial. Thanks for your effort.
Thanks for watching - It was fun to do and I hope it's helpful
Good Job~~~ !! Thank you for the Video
Great work!
Thanks grandpa. You're the best!
LOL glad to help !!! Be sure to stop back .... Dave
Genius..ill be copying….thanks and greetings from England…
This was great thanks.
That is an awesome job!
Timotheos !!! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment - it really means alot. Stop back .... Dave
Duuude
Moving my family across country soo needed to see this . Like others I searched and searched . Thank you 🙏
Hi Duuude - you'll be surprised how easy it is .... you may find this one useful too .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html - thanks for watching buddy
In the future you could use carriage bolts and make a square cutout, then it is likely you could slip it over the stud on the roof. Thanks for sharing this!
Senglebe ! Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. That would certainly work, but making a square hole is way over my pay grade !! Be well and stop back !!
@@VanOfAction No no, just buy a square drill bit! Lol
Awesome video :). I will make some for my home soon. Thanks alot and beautifully done video!
J-Sun !! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. You'll find it easy. After some questions I made a second video with more details about the clips and roof rack. You may find it useful as well czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html. Stop back and if you find it useful feel free to subscribe. Cheers
Well done.
No jig needed and no angle grinder needed. Aluminium is a soft metal, so you can use your normal wood saws to cut them the same way. But I do swish out the blades anyhow for metal blades. I have these things on my Iveco van also. You idea is perfect. Thanx.
Hi Sunseker. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment. I did make that part harder than it should be - but at the same time - I’ve spent weeks working a table saw and have never cut metal on one. So it’s good people see how a coward does it !!!! Do you mean you copied the brackets ??? If so could you send me a couple o pics. I’m collecting for a future video. Send to vanofaction@gmail.com
@@VanOfAction Yes. I think your design is great. I will copy the base, but I may go another way with the main long metal pole. I will send you pix when I am done. Just got to see here in Sweden who has all I need this week.
27:05 @@VanOfAction
@@ericsrocksandsuchadventure9364 Hi Eric - thanks - as you can see I don't measure a lot (never have) ..... but you can see the sample I made at 3:34 of the this video - I would recommend you do the same ...be well and let me know how you make out....... Dave
Great design. All the best.
Thanks a lot @rafa....
Well done, you are the best 😀 old man
Cheers bud
That’s an impressive piece of work.
Bertrand !! Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment - they turned out really well and a number of people have copied them with the same results - which really makes me smile. I made another video with a bit more detail if your interested .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html . Be well and stop back !! Dave
@@VanOfAction
I’m working with a Nissan NV200 and its mounting system has recessed nuts, so your idea won’t work. But I enjoyed the techniques you came up with to produce quality parts. My concern is that perhaps unlike your van with a flat roof line,the NV200 might have some curve to it. If so, it means finding spacers, probably hard rubber of some sort. I take delivery of my van next week so any detailed ‘thinking’ will have to wait until I get exact measurements.
Regardless, as you say, it ain’t rocket surgery.
That's so intelligent! I will use this on my camper for sure 👍
Hi Henrik - thank you so much for the kind words ...... when you do please post the photos or video ...... you have no idea how much it makes me smile when people build them and save a ton of $$$$$$ Hope you'll stop back ... Dave
Great video !!!
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment .... hope you'll stop back ... Dave
Amazing ,brilliant video I've been searching for a long time for brackets great idea im going to set about making them this weekend thank you very much .....jamie from Scotland.
Hi Jamie !!! Thanks so much for taking the time to write - you have no idea how much it makes me smile to think that what I'm doing may be helpful. If you can - and if you're interested - take a few pics along the way and keep track of how it goes. I expect you'll innovate and improve the design. I'd love to share your experience here so others might be able to learn. Be well
Thanks for you video man, friendly and very informative.
Gavin - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment - the build series is all available at "Van Of Action .com" feel free to check it out. be well ...
Awesome fabrication going on there sir...😏 ingenuity at its finest... saved a good-sized chunk of money! Thanks so much for sharing ... that $35. press is an spectacular aquisition 😃
Jess !!! Yeah - I smile every time I need to drill a hole !!!!! I don't know how to tell if you are a subscriber or not - but if not the roof rack that sits on the clips video is here czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html and a revisit for more details on both is here czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html ... thanks for stopping by
nicely done !
Thanks! - You have no idea how good it makes me feel when folks see value in what I share .... hope you'll stop back ... dave
Absolutely BRILLIANT! Thank you so much! Can you do a video on the rest of the roof rack install?
Vovachka !! Thanks you for watching and for taking the time to write such a wonderful comment. You can see the rest of the build at “Van Of Action .com”. The roof rack went really quickly - if I left out any details you may want to know just reach out to me. Be well.
VERY elegant KISS solution (keep it simple stupid) Thanks brother for taking the time to post this
RJ. Thanks for the kind words. Please stop back and be well. Dave
Good idea. Thanks for sharing. Now you need a mill and a TIG welder. 👍
Stuart !!! I don't think so .... A man has to know his limitations ..... be well
so thank you from france mate !!!
Matthieu. !! That is so cool. Glad you had the time to watch and comment. If you’re doing a build I’ll be publishing the roof rack video soon. It was different that I had expected. Be well my friend.
Well done great job
I hope you're well Rob - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.
Thanks for posting this. I'm going to make some too.
BTW, the ad you showed was $44 for a pair of mounts, not just one.
Hey @zarguy thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Let me know how you make out with yours ! And thanks for clarifying the price. Still saved a ton. It I like to be accurate. Cheers. Dave
Perfect. I had the same problem. Had no clue how to attach to them. I was about to glue my solar panel on but I didn't really want to do that in case I ever needed to replace it. Thanks
Jesuscross9 - thanks for watching and commenting - I'm glad you found this clip design useful. I am publishing today the roof rack construction. I got 3 panels on the roof on an aluminum rack - totally removable if needed for less than $ 200.00 CDN....... be well and safe.
Awesome video... may not apply to my ambo build, but definitely some great tips and ideas I should be able to incorporate
Matthew - thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment. The roof rack was one of the best parts of the build for me in terms of dollars spent and results gotten. If you didn't see them, I have a more focused rack video here czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html and I received a number of comments and questions so I made a more detailed video about the whole lot here czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html you many find them useful. Be sure to stop in again - be well
@Van Of Action I have a buddy who also has a promaster van for his Heating and Cooling company... so I shares with him also
@@matthewshepley8298 That would be awesome !!!
Great job!
You are very kind my friend - I hope you're well and safe.
Thank you for sharing your work. We too are building out a PROMASTER. When we get to the solar panel chunk of work, we will do the same. Kindest regards.
Hi Dwayne - Thanks for watching and thanks for taking the time to comment. I am currently working on a second roof clip video that shares more details, measurements and "reasons for" - based on the comments and questions I've been getting. So feel free to stop back at VanOfAction.com when the time comes. Good luck with your build - mine has been nothing but fun !!!! Be well and safe
good stuff. i'll be watching for it.
From South Carolina, USA. I bought a new 2018 promaster 3500 high top and wanted a rack.
This will do great, Thanks
Brookele - it’ll work perfect !! I put them on a 2018 promaster high top. You’ll do great. Post a picture when you’re done. Be well and safe.
You live in a really beautiful place. Reminds me of Washington state in the background.
Good day Barcid Studios - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment, Yes we're very lucky, the interior of British Columbia and Washington State are very similar. We had nothing to do with it though - this was a covid move to be closer to our kids. Hope you stop back at VanOfAction,com again .... be well
You do Overcomplicate everything It’s Great Job genius
Hi Eddinnz K - thanks for taking the time .... I hope that helps you . You may find this video helpful ... it has more detail .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html If you use it let me know how it goes .... cheers
That is awesome, thanks!!
Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment .... be well
Brilliant mate
Kevin. Thanks for taking the time. :).
YOU ARE AN ANGEL
LOL FeRaBa …. Thank you …. (Tell my wife). Be well and safe
This is brilliant
D-RockFPV - thanks for taking the time to post such a nice comment. It’s appreciated. I hope you’re well.
Amazing, thank you.
Hi ibrainortega ... thanks for watching and taking the time to comment .... if you're interested there is a more detailed look here .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.htmlsi=hd0sNhKq8EVOL1YY also - last year I installed an awning and it worked out really well ..... stop back ... Dave
So glad you posted this video.. I am in UK with an Iveco Daily van that has the same studs on the roof for fixing a roof rack.. but cant find anywhere that sells the clips.. searched on line for days and nothing found.. then this video of yours appeared and I clicked on it... and there they were, the perfect thing that I need, and so cheap and easy to make...I have subscribed as I like the way you roll (we are the same age ).. and I hate the thought of paying hundreds of £££££'s for something worth a lot less, Thanks for the video, appreciate the effort, I know its a time-consuming thing to do when all you want to do is get on with building the van..
Hello Ian !!! Welcome and thank you !! I'm so glad you found us. It's always good when you can save some $$$ and feel like you accomplish something at the same time. I love that folks from the UK are finding this useful. In this video I shared more detail .. czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html . Let me know how you make out ----- My daughter went to school in Leicester and is trying to find a way back !!!
I don´t even had wached the video complete and I feel like telling You , Yuar a Blessed man, and Thank You for sharing Your skills and your wise conversation. Best regards of course,✌ my Like and subscribe.👋🙏
Thank you so much for the kind words - I hope you'll come back and find it to be helpful. Dave
Thank you so very much!🙏
Hi Antonio - you are welcome my friend - you may also find this video useful - it has more detail ... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html be well and stop back.
Beautiful!
I guess a mitre saw could save you some work, but you figured it out anyways. good work!
Happy New Year Ron - Yes I suppose it would have for some of cuts. taking off the flange of for the top bracket would have been a bit sketchy. But there are always multiple ways of doing things for sure. Be well and stop back.... Dave
Absolute legend 😁
LOL Daniel - thank you so much for taking the time ..... tell a friend :) ... be well
That was soo cool! Not sure why I watched this but I'm glad I did. Maybe I just like watching intelligent people doing intelligent things.
Pooheadiou !!!! You have no idea how badly I needed to hear that today. Thanks for lifting me up. (I’m not even discounting because of your handle). Be well and stop back my friend. Dave.
@@VanOfAction lol! What can I say, I'm a shithead at heart.. but my friend's still love me. 😎
In the UK I have found only one supplier of pre-made brackets and it was going to cost me about £200 for 10 of them.
I love this idea, well done and thanks for saving me some cash.
Elliot - we are all in this together !!!! If you do use this idea (or improve upon it) please send me some photos ...... dave
Hi Dave. As promised I am slowly working through your vlogs. This idea is the best of the bunch I have come across, IMO. Strong, simple and foolproof. If you needed more bar height above the van roof you could either use a wider C channel or add a spacer tube under the top rail with longer bolts. I adapted a universal commercial roof rack system with brackets from a Renault Trafic which had the bolt down type feet. I made a lower clamping plate which used the two bolt holes in the foot of the Renault bracket but my clamping plate had an L shaped slot in it. This meant that the roof pins were held side to side by all the clamp plates longitudinal slots and, by arranging the L slots in opposing directions cross rail by cross rail, the rack was held front to rear. I have three bars so two slots lock it forwards and one bar locks it from rearward movement. The reason? The rack came at a steal of a price from someone who didn't know its retail value and just wanted it gone from their roof. Plus point, there are lots of commercially available adapter brackets for this rack system. Minus point, cost, as usual but I was lucky to get a lot of extra bits with my bargain roof rail system. One of the extras was a wind deflector for the front bar which reduces noise when travelling at speed.
Hi David - thanks for the kind words. I have to admit I'm kinds proud of this clip system - it was fun to have it turn out so well. It's been copied by a ton of folks all over the world which really makes me smile. There's evena couple tik tok videos other builders have put up, and graciously they always give a little credit our way !!! It sounds like you got your rack the way you wanted it at a good price too. And for what it's worth we get absolutely NO highway noise at all which really surprised me. Dave
excellent
nice one!
Thanks! Hope you found it useful and it saves you money.
EXACTLY WHAT I NEED
Hi Steph - THANKS !!! several people have duplicated these clips I hope they will give you some ideas and save you some $$$$ you may also find these 2 helpful ... the roof rack . czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html and more details czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html - be well and stop back
Clever boy ...mike Scotland
My kind of people 😊
Great job, need these to install solar on a fiat ducato.
Hi Ginger !! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. These clips will work great on your Ducato - let me know how you make out !!! Cheers Dave
I wish I had seen this when I was building my Promaster campervan a year ago. I worked on different idea and finally gave up. Finally, I ordered a CNC machined attachment clips for $300USD for 8 clips, not a bad price as they were stainless steel and had paddings that protected the van metal. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Ozman - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Too bad for the timing - (my clip design doesn't touch the roof so there is no need of the padding.) - but at least you got it done and the summer is coming !!! I hope you have lots of time to enjoy it. Be well.
@@VanOfAction Thank you. Subscribed with my initial comment. I would like to see your channel grow. Btw, do you work on building campervans? I'm a potential customer. Thank you.
@@ozmanfidaar6311 Thanks for subscribing - I will be looking for a project for next winter and I'm not sure if that will be something for me or someone else .... maybe we should investigate to see if anything works ... you can email me at vanofaction@gmail.com
I have looked for a suitable solution for a month or so, and I found some interesting solutions, so I got an idea before I found this video.
This solution looks quite simple, but I have an idea of making the bracket even simpler!
Now I haven't looked at how you solved the rest of the rack.
I have thought of using 40x40 mm "8020", but first I have to decide the height of the rack above the the rooftop. Then I can design the final solution for the bracket.
So we will see what the whole construction will look like at the end...
Hi Leif - thanks for watching and commenting - I'd love to see how you improve on my design - simple is always better for sure. Yoiu may find these videos good for a bit more detail .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html and czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html be sure to stop back and share how you make out ... Dave
Greetings from UK Great videos & really good clips, you can cut aluminium on a wood saw no problems.
Hi Gasgiant - thanks for commenting - yes I've been told that - But I've also never done it and since I'm using a borrowed hobby saw I didn't want to try. Also, the cutter I got I could use for other operations in the build. You may also find these helpful or interesting - czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html and czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html. Be well and I hope all is well in the UK. One of my daughter studied at Leicester and every time I visited I wished I had my van. You have beautiful places to visit.
@@VanOfAction thanks but Canada looks like a beast of a country, my sister lives in Toronto, thinking of going to visit her now that awful virus has diminished. You seem good at problem solving? I too always think "theirs always a cheaper solution" to most things I do, once again thank you for the video 👍
You're a genius. Well, at least smarter than a lot of people. Bet your mother is proud of you:-)
LOL thanks for watching Mike .. I hope you're well and safe
Looks very neat. Great Job there :)
Something that I would note maybe though? Your plan for this is to fit solar panels and so the 20 or so Kg (44lbs?) is very little compared to what the roof will take. However, these lugs that are pre-fitted out the factory are really just locators for the roof rail brackets and not meant to take the weight. If you look at the official OEM mounts you will see each Bracket is a length of extruded aluminium and while it uses the lug for position and locking into place, all the weight goes onto the roof shoulder and an inner rib, and not on the lug and close surround.
If someone was making their own brackets to use for carrying serious weight (the OEM kit is rated at 150Kg (~350lbs), they really need to have the bracket sit on the roof, and not just where the lug is.
(I've actually got the OEM Rack Kit in a box ready to fit on a customers camper for the sole purpose of fitting Solar Panels, and it is engineering overkill for that purpose for sure, which is why I am looking at cheaper options for future installs, but using the lugs alone would concern me)
Hi David, thanks for watching and taking the time to share your thoughts. I agree 100% with the point you've made. If one intended to have a deck or some other object on the roof there would be other considerations. However remember that these studs are the only thing that holds ALL racks DOWN. Some commercial racks are designed to support significant weight. So my thoughts (as a carpenter) is that if they are strong enough to keep hundreds of pounds ON the roof while driving and in accidents - they must be strong enough to support a fair bit of weight as well. All my roof rack is for at this time is the solar panels. Going forward - because I have the solar panels up there, there will be very limited space for anything else without creating shade on the panels which would defeat the whole purpose. I have had a number of subscribers copy the plan as so far everyone has found them easy to make. If you didn't see them - you may find these video helpful as well. czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html ...... czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html I can't imagine paying for a rack kit just for the solar panels. Be well and stop back. Dave
If you use carriage bolts, they may fit the other way. Good instructions! Cheers
Hi Frank - Thanks for watching and the suggestion - They may have fit - if I understand what you're saying properly - but because the space between the underside of the clip and the roof is fixed I didn't a variable length (depending on how things compressed as they pulled together) there. And secondly, with a carriage bolt I would have need a square hole !! WAY above my pay grade LOL - If you didn't see I made a second video with more detail as I was checking over the winter ... you can see it here czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html if you go to 5:18 in this video you'll see how I stopped the bolts from spinning as I tightened. Be well and stop back. I love hearing others ideas and I think it helps everyone. Cheers
Very good, I was originally going to use the proper roof bars which came on my van, till I release they where in the way of my maxfan. So starting to think of alternative solutions, and this looks great.
One comment, make sure to use galvanised fastenings and not stainless. As aluminium and SS react, which causes the aluminium to go brittle and crumble (I've seen this). Not sure what you used.
Hi Rorie - thanks for watching and commenting, you may not have seen them .... I made 2 other videos with more detail about the clips and roof rack - here czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html and here czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.html you may find them useful as well. Also thanks for the Aluminum vs SS thoughts. I just used what I had in the shop that day and I think there may be a mixture. I'm watching it and can switch out if necessary. I addressed this in the first link ..... be well and stop back !!!! Cheers
My VW Caddy, I have 4 bolts in my roof for roofrails. Gonna use the mounting points and make my own brackets and rack
@forgotten…….. thanks for watching - I hope some of what I did will help you do yours. Please let me know how you make out. Be well Dave.
I’m a mother and I’m proud!😊
NaturalLife - thanks for the smile.
As a woodworker, you probably have a miter saw or a chop saw in your shop: you can install on them a blade especially designed to cut aluminum like the one you used like butter and use a stopper to get repetitive cuts.
Thanks for watching and the comment - I do have a miter saw but I left it in Ontario when we made our Covid move to BC. The only equipment I've had for my build has been the table saw that was in the shop I rented , a hand drill, an orbital sander and a router. Not complaing - it's just that way it is. But you're right - it woud have made it much easier. Be well.
A nonferrous metal cutting blade in a table saw works great on Aluminum and a few other metals as well. A 10" version is not that much. Carbide with a negative hook angle.
@@christopherhaak9824 Thanks Christopher - I agree, but it's something I've never done on a table saw - I wish I was comfortable with the idea. The saw I'm using isn't mine and isn't that great to begin with so I went with the angle grinder. Be well
I put a 7” ferrous metal cutting blade on my 10” table saw. The smaller diameter gives it more torque to handle heavier cuts. A spritz of WD-40 on each side of the blade prevents build-up of aluminum on the carbide teeth. Put the blade all the way up to reduce kickback.
@@robertschulke1596 - thanks for the tips !!!
Great video. Thanks for your work. Only thing I would change is to ditch those lock washers. History has proven they don't work and may even do more harm than good.
Hi Grow Your Heirlooms - thanks for watching and commenting - how would you recommend they be bolted together ?
@@VanOfAction Exactly how you've done. They are great clips and you did a great job. Just use the flat washers not the lock washers.
@@Growyourheirlooms Thanks for the reply .... I'll keep an eye on things. Cheers
You can cut aluminium with standard woodworking tools, i cut 8mm plate with my woodworking mitre saw,super clean cuts very quick
Hi @Z3n ………. Thanks for watching and commenting. I have since learned that - but I have not tried. Hope you stop back ….. Dave
Thank you from the uk. I've watched loads of vids on home made brackets and I've not been impressed until this video.. so you got another subscriber :).
I've ordered a ducato, which won't be built until next year. Any chance you could help a brother out and share the hole centres etc. At least that way I can make something while I wait for my van to be built :)
Hi David. Thanks for such a nice comment. I’d be happy to give you whatever information I can. I’m not sure what you’re asking. Please explain.
hi love your hammer , we chop wood with them over here
LOL thanks for watching jessestrum - I've heard from others about that tool as well. but I really like the square face for center punching. Be well and safe my friend.
What was the manufactured mounts again? I could understand you in the video. Thanks for your help! Great job on the DIY mounts!
Hi Kody, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I'm sorry I was hard to understand. The mounts I showed a picture of are made by Vantech - if you google Promaster Roof Clips you'll see several variations. Good luck and be well.
Great video and thanks for sharing! I think you said the angle was 1X1, but I’m not sure you said what size the ‘C’ channel was. You told the guy at the store you were looking for something 3/4 inch, but it looked like it was the same depth as the angle. I apologize if I missed it on your video, but could you please share those material sizes?
Hi Karl. Thanks for watching. The “C” channel I used was 1” x. 2”x 1/8”. However as long as it’s 1/8” thick you could use and height you want. I was trying to clear the crown in the roof by at least an inch without going too high. I was told to have a little clearance to prevent whistling. I’ve just driven 3900 KM from BC to Ontario and you wouldn’t know it was there…….The “L” angle for the too part was 1” x 1” x 1/8” for the “L” I trimmed off one side so when assembled it just covered the bottom flange of the “C”. Hope that helps - if I can be any clearer let me know. Cheers.
Great invention. Unfortunately I have zero tools and zero skill. I will just have to spend the $$$ on the ready made clips.
Great idea!! I will be trying this myself! would you mind posting the dimensions of the pieces? I only got that they are 1/8" thick but nothing on the hole diameter, etc. Thank you!!
Red Spiral - thanks so much for watching and taking the time to comment. I have been asked this question before. I'll make a video with greater details and dimensions ...... did you subscribe ? If not visit "VANOFACTION.com" and you'll be notified when the video is published. stay tuned and stay well.
I'm thinking the same thing, try to make it with a piece thicker aluminum. easy make and strong.
Hi YL - thanks for watching. Be careful !!! A thicker piece will not slide under the clip and still give you maximum purchase - which will weaken the connection. You may get a better idea of what I mean by watching this video .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html be well and stop back !!!
Thanks again for a fantastic video. Are you concerned with aluminum deforming with weight, pressure from wind pulling on panels, etc.
Hi Greg - thanks for watching and leaving a comment. I was wondering about that and so when I was buying - I blocked a piece of 1" x 1" x 1/8" square tubing between 2 off cuts of steel beams on the shop floor. I spaced the block 6'-0" apart. Then I asked the guy biggest guy in the shop to stand on the aluminum. He was about 300 pounds and the tube flexed but didn't come close to bending. All together the solar panels don't weigh more then 50 pounds. As long as all you want the solar this rack is over built !!! Be well and stop back. Dave
@@VanOfAction thanks, nice 👍
Do you sell these?
I’m hoping the bolt isnt pressing into the roof dame good idea will do the same. Cheers
Hi Alun = the clip itself does not touch the roof at all ------ you'll see more detail in this video ... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html good luck and stop to let me know how you make out. dave
@@VanOfAction thank you for your reply will give it a go 👍
Great video, for someone like me that does not want to make them. I’m wondering do you sell them?
Hi IanNumberXII - thanks for watching and thanks for commenting - these clips are really easy to make. I have had subscribers from all over the world duplicate them. Check out this video .... czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html it has a bit more detail. Let me know your thoughts. I leaving on a road trip 1/2 across Canada in a couple weeks and would not have time to make you any - but I may be able to find someone in the community willing. Also - where are you ?
Good job. Amazon sells those brackets for about $50 apiece🤬. First we’ve been cutting aluminum with the same miter saw blade we use for wood for years no problem. Second, I hope you used stainless hardware so no rust. I have a new Promaster extended I’m in the process of starting a build and there is no way I will spend $2,000 US for a roof rack, I don’t care how long it takes me to self build. I plan on fabricating my rack with a combination of extruded parts and 80/20 components.
Hi Michael - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. I have not looked lately - if you could post a link to the clips available on Amazon it would be great. First - I've heard from a number in the community about using a saw - During my build I didn't have a miter saw - my Dad used to do all kinds of metal work on his table saw. Not my cup of tea. Second - I've also heard the stainless hardware story before a bunch of times. I'm about 30 minutes one way to a hardware store so for my build I just used whatever I had laying around - not stainless. I'm able to monitor things pretty close. The first inspection was last winter - and there was no evidence of rust. The video is here (and there is more details about the clip design too) czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html At the end of the day, there are only 40 nuts and bolts and if I see signs of deterioration I can change them out easily. I'll do another inspection video this winter. Congratulations on having a new Promaster. I've been looking for another for over a year and can't find anything in British Columbia that makes sense. I had planned on using 80/20 at first but it was hard to get where I am, which in the end proved a blessing. The cost of the tubes I used were a fraction of the the cost of 80/20 and honestly I have more faith in the integrity of the connections. Hope you stop back and share how your build is going .... be well Dave
Hi, Really enjoy watching your video-your craftsmanship is amazing. I copied your design for roof clips and they are solid! Thank you. There is another guy that has a youtube cannel using your design but he's using pop rivets for his roof rack. What are your thoughts on use of pop rivets? I'm not sure of the strength or whether they will pull apart easily. I not an expert so just trying to figure out if this the way to go for building rack on top of your well designed roof clips
Happy New Year Greg !! Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. You have no idea how much of a kick I get when I hear of my stuff being helpful to people. Can you send me some pics of your finished clips. And can you send me a link to the other channel ? I'd love to see what he's up to as well. I didn't think of rivets for 2 reasons. 1. I wanted my rack to be "adjustable" - in case I wanted to change things down the line. 2. I have used a rivet gun before but only for very thin metals. The rack would be 1/4" inch thick and would require a heavy or even powered rivet gun. There is no way I would buy one for what amounted to 32 total connections. I'm lookin forward to seeing your clips. Be well ........... Dave
@@VanOfAction Hi Dave-Happy New Year!! Dwayne Price czcams.com/video/4WTJBM0QSek/video.html
I have to take some pictures and send to you.
Hi Greg - thanks for the link - I've reached out to Dwayne to see if he would share his experience here ... I would ask you the same thing. It could be helpful to others to see how the system goes together. Send me some pics and lets talk !!! Dave
I've watched this once through initially & then later when I was ready to build, I skipped around trying to find the size of drill bit for the holes that slide over the factory pins. Can you please add it to your main comment below the video? I picked up some scrap 2 x 1" aluminum C-channel today at a local recycler, more than enough for the brackets. I think I'll go back & get the other pieces I saw. $3 got me a 56" length! Thanks.
Hi Zarguy .... I LOVE that !!! $3.00 !!!!! Man that makes me smile. I'm sorry about the drill size missing. Unfortunatey my van is 3400 miles away at the moment and my shop is all packed up for moving this weekend .... (video comes out tomorrow) .... What I did initially because it's impossible to measure was ..... I machined a piece of wood 3/4" x 1/8" x 3" - then using my chop saw I just cut a groove part way through at about the middle. I just kept increasing the groove until it fit as I wanted it to. Be sure sure to post some photos of how you're doing. These clips have been copied all over the world and one day I want to do a compilation video ..... be well ....... Dave
You just saved me $400
Robert !!! I love that !!! Thanks for letting me know. You're gonna feel the same smile I had when I made them. All the best
Do these roof studs move...as in can I raise the height of them by unscrewing? Mine is a 2021 model, and the factory fit roof studs don't give enough clearance to fit a bracket. Don't want to start messing things up. Cheers.
Hi Bv3 Bv3 thanks for watching - I have not had this comment before. Can you take a photo and send to me ? With the dimension from roof to underside of studs. vanofaction@gmail.com. The studs on my van spin but do not go up or down. - looking forward to hearing from you.
How Big was the holes you drilled? The ones on the outside and the original center one.
Justin !!!! Thanks so much for watching and commenting. Unfortunately I’m on a 6 week road trip and don’t have my drills with me. For the stud itself it was about 1/4”. I started at 3/16” and increased until I had a nice snug fit on the post. For the holes in the rails they were just big enough for the bolts to pass. I used 1/4” - 20 bolts. The plan should be to keep the holes as tight as possible. That’s why being careful to be straight and true as you drill is important. The less wiggle room the better. Be well and safe.
What size channel did you use
Hi John / thanks for watching and commenting. I used a 1” x 2” x 1/8” C channel for the clips. But that was because of the height I wanted off the roof to give me the clearance at the peak of the roof. You probably shouldn’t go any narrower but you could certainly use a wider profile if you wanted to be higher. The “L” angle for the top clip was 1” x 1” x 1/8”. Hope that helps. Be well …..
What size of bit did use on the hole that slippes over the tab
Hi Eric - thanks for watching and asking. You want these to be a snug as possible without being so tight that you can't get them on an off easily. I ended up playing around a bit and used a 1/4" bit - but you should check with a sample. Be well ........... Dave
I'd suggest checking what effects your two metals have in contact with each other, or you'll be stripping that all off before long. Like you said - metal's not your thing, but aluminium is sacrificial under certain circumstances, and you could end up with eiter rusty steel or missing aluminium
Dex ! Thanks my friend. That is something I had never considered. I’ll keep my eye on it for sure.
Tef-Gel is what salt water boaters use to deal with SS/Aluminum corrosion.
@@robertschulke1596 Thanks for watching and also thanks for actually reading the comments !!! I don't know what Tef-Gel is but over the winter I'll be doing a complete survey of the roof rack and clips. be well my friend
@@VanOfAction Tef-Gel is a gel containing Teflon micro-particles. The fasteners get a solid grip, and the particles mash down to a microscopic insulating layer. No electrical contact: no electrolysis: no corrosion.
Anodic action needs an electrolyte to facilitate activity, and fresh rainwater is a poor electrolyte, unless dirt with mineral salts built up between the mount and the body. Electrolytic action is more of a concern with dissimilar metals in constant immersion in the salty (electrolytic) waters of the ocean. That said, I did was isolate my mounts/towers from the van with a thin piece of rubber cut from a bicycle innertube to prevent the mount from rubbing the paint on the van and exposing it.
There are mower blade sharpeners that are designed to harness the grinder into a … a … whatchamacallit. Anyway the gadget holds the grinder still for you & you can move the blade down & up to contact the held mower blade. That zig could be combined with your jig to make a straight cut where the grinder cannot slip out of the desired alignment. It would work…
Esparka - thanks so much for taking the time to watch the video and share your idea. This is the first grinder I've ever owned and I'm not aware of any attachments. I did a quick google search and found only one plastic set up that didn't look very useful for my purpose and the cost was $ 95.00 which is way more than I could justify for what I was doing. If you can post a link please feel free to .... it may be very helpful to others. Be well and please come back to VanOfAction.com
@@VanOfAction
PPS - Sir, did you also know that you can take a pair of pliers, or perhaps channel locks and you can actually grasp those roof nipples that are facing forward to back in relation to your van & you can twist that roof nipple to face perpendicular to the van. In this way, you may be able to get those custom, homemade brackets to fit in the direction you desire for aesthetics, whereas they wouldn’t fit for you in the forward to back aspect. Please let me know if this works …
Hi Esparka - you have no idea how much I appreciate your comments. I truly do. Yes - I did know the "nipples" would rotate. And in fact that was my first plan. But the diameter of the hole needed to facilitate the rotation was greater than the hole required for the clips I used - which I think created a much stronger connection (I'm not an engineer) - and created a much greater purchase for the clip in the - front to back direction - and in one side of the side to side direction. I'm working on a video now explaining what the process - I would love to hear your thoughts after that - give me a week or so ........
I’ve sent you the link for the sharpening vice 3 times & YT apparently won’t allow it.
all american
Hello do you make this to order for promaster 136” ? I don’t have any of those tools and the racks online are too expensive
Hi A C - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. At the moment I have way too much on my plate to consider making anything - But the tools are not that expensive - If you've doing your complete build the roof rack was honestly one of the easiest parts. You can see more detail and measurements here: czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html Let me know if you need more help. Cheers
I haven't read all comments but could you have used some insulation foam between the bolts en roof to protect the paint? Or was the space between bolts and roof free, after all was tighten?
I'm thinking about doing the same for my Jumper in Europe (same van different brand). I'll see if I can use carriage bolts instead to avoid unnecessary rotation ;-)
Hi Alex - thanks for watching and leaving a comment. When the clips are installed there is no contact with the roof. The idea of carriage bolts crossed my mind as well but making the holes square was over my pay grade. If you didn't see I made a second video with more detail as I was checking over the winter ... you can see it here czcams.com/video/diIZe-teysU/video.html if you go to 5:18 in this video you'll see how I stopped the extra rotation. I've had several folks from Europe say they were going to copy this .... let me know how you do. Be well
@@VanOfAction nice trick the grinding of the wrench to make it fit ;-)
@@AlexCailliau LOL where there's a will ....... the bend in the shaft is a carry over from a router hack I used years ago. Be well
Make your own extruded aluminum roof rack for $200 to 400$ strong light and most versatile
Hi Nick - didn't see this before I responded to your first comment - but YES !!! czcams.com/video/tkyhTzkyAOI/video.htmlsi=XWa9Q4OluBEJ8Rze ............. Dave
Rhat grinding wheel is on up side down
Hey Nick - can you expand on that ? I don't know what you mean .... thanks Dave
Sure wish you could make some sets available to your subscribers. I'd buy 8 of them for my 159" WB 2020 2500.
Hi Deirdre - I wish I could but I’m on the road and have no tools at all with me. But they are pretty simple if you follow the steps. Good luck and stop back. Dave
@@VanOfAction Thank you for responding. I spent some time last night watching videos of others trying your technique and I'm feeling confident enough to give it a try. I have the aluminum. I'll let you know how it turns out. :)
@@deirdre444 videos of others trying my technique ?? that's amazing - could you send me links if you have time ??? vanofaction@gmails.com
@@VanOfAction I've looked in my history but have not yet found them. When I find them, of course I will send you links. :)
What was the purpose of that second angle aluminum at the bottom? You didn't show. And I couldn't see any reason for it.
Hi Shelly - I see you got the answer. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. This system has been copied by builders all over the world with great results. Save yourself some money !!!!! Be well and stop back ….. Dave
@@VanOfAction Hi Mr. Action, (Dave) Thank you for that kind, and quick response. I am building out my own van and need people like you who share all kinds of wonderful tips and tricks in order to help people like me to accomplish my goal without spending a fortune, which I don't have. But like I heard you say, "one doesn't usually get a personal response". It's nice! What do you think-I am a big fan of the band Midlake and I'm considering naming my Van Occupanther,
Shelly
@@urflofit2010 I think that's a great name for a van .... we just call ours "The Truck" .... be well
simple 3/8 nylon nuts..
Hi @nnation - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment ..... unfortunately, I'm not sure what you're referring to .... I didn't use any 3/8" nuts or bolts in my build ..... be well and I hope you'll stop back..... Dave