Background

The idea of converting a van into a motor home is not a new one for me – I first came up with the idea some years ago, but at the time I guess it was only a dream, I guess its something I have been thinking about for years – but never really took my ideas any further – That was until early in 2004. When I started to look more seriously at the notion of converting an old van or more to the point an ambulance into a motor home – Being an "aging" lover of the out doors – I decided it was about time a gave myself a bit of luxury in life !! . I'm not yet saying my 4 tents will be redundant – especially the backpacking ones – which are great for those inaccessible places

The more  I looked in to the possibility of a conversion and the more I read of the subject the more possible, affordable and appealing the idea became – What a challenge to design and build your own motor home I thought  ! Then  I discovered a web site  :-

 http://www.sbmcc.co.uk/

The Self Build Club of which I have now become a member. This site was a major inspiration, a stepping-stone from the dream to the reality of my van conversion – and through its web pages  , provided me with much practical  and technical information regarding the conversion.

I started to look in the Auto trader for a suitable van which to convert – I thought an ambulance would be ideal – Firstly because it already had windows and certain fittings and secondly because on the whole old ambulances have a good service history and if they have been used as passenger transport vehicles , chances are they have been driven carefully.

I looked at several vans before I found exactly what I was looking for – Having looked at ambulances initially – I found the shape of the Renault Master Ambulance , quite appealing and for that reason, decided that if I came across a decent example of this van then that's what I would buy!

After several weeks searching, I came across exactly what I was looking for. A  "J" reg. Renault Master long wheelbase (ex disabled passenger minibus). A great example of what is available if you shop around. Very low mileage at only 42000 miles, with service history and as a result in very good condition for its age. Its not a high top - but theres ample standing room - I'm 5'11''. Also my van has hydraulic suspension - its whole back end can be lowered almost to ground level - In practice this is very good if parked on an incline, as I can correct the incline by graduating the angle of my van.

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[Jons Home Page] [INTRODUCTION] [PLANNING] [THE BUILD] [RENAULT MASTER TRIPS DIARY] [NEW VAN 2007] [LINKS] [MESSAGE FORUM]