Toyota Coaster Conversion

I've been involved in a couple in a past career. Not sure of any publicarions, but I'm sure they are out there. Some things are very fiddley while other stages can be quite quick. The main advice I can give is to be very patient with the finer details and more difficult jobs, like making an oddly shaped cupboard as large as can possibly be in a given space rather than a square cupboard that's easy and quick.

Do you have any trade qualifications/experience? (I used to be a carpenter/joiner before blowing things up was more profitable and fun). Obviously use a lic. gasfitter for that kind of work, and have it certified etc. You will find there is a few outlets where you could buy all of your plumbing, electrical, etc etc gear in one order and get quite a discount.

Doing it for your own should be far more rewarding than for money like I did. As I eluded to berore, don't rush it, especially in the planning stages. One of the biggest problems we had was the justification of the Shower/toilet inside. Personally, I would go for a portapottie and shower tent. I like the idea of the shower rose plumbed into the bus, but the rose, taps etc external behind a door like a gas bottle cupboard. Showers take up a lot of room inside, and usually end up a bit more cramped than you expected. Some people want a hot shower, to go to the dunny, then into bed without going outside. Each to there own. Refrigeration, power suply, solar/batteries, gennie/aircon?

There is a Club, I think they are called the Wanderers or somethin like that. They have rallies and are always showing people what they have in their rig. They are usually most welcomeing and a great source of knowlege, some good, some not quite what you want. A bit like here, its good stuff though!

Good luck, Andrew

PS also check out boat shops, and publications. People decking out boats have similar problems to motorhomes.

Keith

The best I know of is found at tinyurl.com/qcdzx This book was written by an engineer who has been involved in developing vehicles as well as building motor homes.

PeterD

I like the coasters nice strong engines, low revving, they handle dirt, corrugations well and can be taken off road pretty well with the dual rearwheels. I've driven and drive lots in remote areas. I've had to take them further than most 4wd's venture.

I like the advice above and was thinking - try to get to where the grey nomads visit/travel if possible and check what layouts , suggestions they have. Most I have seen have bed up the back, kitchen etc on passenger side and table etc on driver side a bit like caravans.

You will need every nook and cranny and as above BIAS marine have a plethora of space savers avail.

Lots o' luck,

Slammin

Hi Keith

The club in question is the cmca. www.cmca.net.au

They have a forum which covers general fitout, electrical, plumbing etc.

Cost to join is $16 plus $44 per year and have the best insurance scheme for motorhomes.

The advice I have recieved has been invaluable.
The other good site is www.motorhomesaustralia.net/

Also good info there.

Hope it helps

Peter

good morning!

We have a friend who is doing the same thing in WA.

I doubt if the rules are the same here.

But he had to explain all he was going to do, especially the removal of seats, and windows. Changes to wind out windows they also had interest in.

Might pay to check on what interests the transport people have.

By the way do not chuck the olderseats out, he had people beating their way to his door to buy.

Regards

Col