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172 days on the road planned
Re-building my Toyota van part 2
Roland Jones
After travelling around the country in my campervan I became aware of some shortcomings in the design. It was difficult to access the fuse box etc; I needed better storage capabilities; and of course, a new toilet.
I didn’t like the idea of fitting a bracket for my existing toilet as this would have meant that the bottom unit would have to be lifted over the seat and out the back door, not easy. Also, the sink was too high, I needed to revamp the plumbing to make the sink more accessible.
My controller was in the far corner of the bed with the fuse box underneath (out of sight), this meant that I had to completely re-wire the van. Although I am quite familiar with electrics, it was a task that was not easy.
Cabinets
I purchased some 18mm plywood (non-construction. This has a beautiful grain and NO knots.
After removing the existing cabinets and of course marking all the cables with what they were connected to, I was able to take measurements and design the units.
Then I gave everything a coat of varnish to protect the ply.
The fridge cabinet was the first to be installed.
I had built it to the maximum height possible and leaving line of sight for the driver out the rear window.
Storage in a small campervan is always an issue, but with the fridge higher I gained a large drawer underneath, with a bonus that I could access the fridge contents a lot easier.
Plumbing
After the fridge unit was completed I installed the water and sink unit.
I fitted a low profile waste to the sink and carefully routed the pipes around the back to ease filling the water tank.
The waste water can either be emptied using the 20mm tap, bottom front, or completely removed by undoing the quick-fix coupler.
Electrics
I was pleased with the improvements to the electrical system, the fridge had an isolating switch (brass), top right-hand side, and the water pump left-hand switch. Above the water pump switch, is the battery indicator.
The controller is now very easy to read and the fuse box is mounted to the far right under the fridge switch.
On the left-hand side of the fridge panel, I have fitted the 200W inverter. Underneath is the control box for my diesel heater.
To the right-hand side of the inverter is a spare USB double port which I use to plug in my mozzie zapper, lol.
Toilet
I invested in a CHH toilet model 3924T which I got on special for $399. It is a larger capacity 24 litres. As I will be on the road for weeks at a time I thought it would be more suitable.
In the very corner I fitted a toilet brush from Temu, it has a water catchment tray underneath to catch any drips.
On the side of the sink unit is a hose which is dual purpose — as a shower and a wash down for the toilet, if required.
Service, warrant, travel
I had a full service on the van and was was very fortunate that the guy was there from NZ Lifestyle Camping so he checked my van out and has organised a green warrant which arrived before I left.
I am aware that it is not a requirement to put the sticker on my van, but if I can educate other campers, I will.
I am departing Auckland in Feb, heading down to the Bulls CAMPFEST then on to the South Island for 172 days on the road. Back in Auckland mid-August.
So, if you see me at a freedom camping site please pop over and say hi.
See you on the road.
11 Autumn 2025
, p
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