In today’s video we feature Rick and his 2022 Mercedes Sprinter 144″ WB chassis with the optional 4×4 that he converted into a DIY campervan. This build uses extruded aluminum cabinet structures and everything sits in the van without much modification to the chassis and can be easily removed.
He Converted A Van From Scratch – Camper Build With 8020 Aluminum | Sprinter Campervan W/Shower
Meet Rick and his DIY camper van conversion based on a 4×4 2022 Mercedes Sprinter 144″ WB chassis. The vehicle sports a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine that outputs 188 hp and 325 lb-ft. (441 Nm) of torque and a seven-speed automatic transmission directing power to all four wheels.
The 2022 Sprinter was the last in the series that came with the option of a V6 engine. Starting this year, the line-up includes only inline-four engines, turbodiesel, or gas.
Rick is no stranger to these kinds of builds. He spent 11 years living on a sailboat and five years in a van, so he’s knowledgeable regarding what are the most valuable features and layouts in tiny homes, as you’ll soon see in his rig. It took him five months of working every single day to complete this project.
Slide the main door open, and you’ll discover part of the entrance is occupied by a counter. There are some features integrated into it – you’ll find a slide-out table, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee outside, two tiny lights, a small storage spot, and two USB ports.
The new Sprinter vans come with many useful options. This rig features every single one you could go for, including heated seats, a large display, swivel seats, adaptive cruise control, and some front storage spaces. Near the driver’s seat, Rick mounted a lagoon table that could serve as a workstation or an excellent spot to enjoy a meal. What’s more, it can be removed and tucked away safely.
One distinctive detail in this camper van is that most of the cabinetry and furniture inside come with 8020 aluminum frames. Moreover, all the wood you see in this van is solid wood, specifically poplar wood, with the exception of the ceiling, which is made from Western Cedar planks.
This van is equipped with two layers of Thinsulate all around for insulation. So, whether you adventure in hot or cold climates, the van is designed to keep a steady temperature inside. During colder days, you can turn on the Espar diesel heater located under the passenger’s seat to keep you warm and cozy. What’s more, a Maxxair ceiling fan ensures proper ventilation.
Step deeper into the interior, and you’ll be in the kitchen, which was divided into two parts. The one on the driver’s side consists of a spacious countertop with a drawer and an Isotherm fridge underneath, as well as a microwave up above. One cool detail is that the countertops’ surface is made from Corian Solid Surface Rice Paper. If you scratch or dent it, you can sand it to bring it to its former glory.
On the opposite side, you’ll notice the counter that occupies part of the entrance. It features a decently sized deep sink, outlets and light switches on its side, and a bunch of storage underneath in the form of cabinets and drawers. That’s where you’ll find a portable induction stove. Furthermore, underneath the sink, Rick added a 6-gallon (23-liter) grey water tank. Alternatively, you can turn a switch and drain the water from the sink directly underneath the vehicle.
Most of the controls for the van’s systems are located on a cabinet just above the kitchen. You’ll discover a battery monitor, an inverter charger, and a DC distribution panel with switches for a 24-gallon (91-liter) Northwest Conversion freshwater tank underneath the van, the refrigerator, and the water pump. Lower, you’ll find switches for the outlets and microwave.
Even though this van is quite tiny compared to other models, Rick’s layout reserved a space for the bathroom. It features a decently sized shower cabin with a plastic tile that imitates marble, a marine-grade shower nozzle, and toilet paper with a cover so it doesn’t get wet. Down below, you’ll find a porta potty and a stainless steel shower pan with a teak mat on top.
One thing I did not expect to see in a van bathroom is a window, complete with a shade for privacy. Another notable detail is that Rick added L-Tracks on the bathroom ceiling, perfect for hanging a wetsuit or other wet clothes.
One of the drawers is mounted on a 300-lb. (136-kg) slide because it serves as a step to get on top of the queen-size bed. The bedroom space is relatively simple but practical – on the passenger’s side, you’ll find two Mule bags providing plenty of storage. Of course, if you travel lightly or the storage in this van is enough already, you can remove them for some extra bedroom real estate.
Other notable features include a reading light, a fan, L-tracks mounted on the passenger’s side wall, and a marine-grade Lumar hatch up above. Moreover, the bed frame is made from lightweight TV ramps.
And lastly, we have the garage, which can be accessed from the outside by opening the rear door, but also from the inside via a small door. It offers plenty of storage space and a bike tray. Furthermore, you’ll discover the freshwater tank, a 2.5-gallon (9.4-liter) Bosch water heater, a water pump, and an outdoor shower on the left side.
The garage’s right side houses the electrical system. It comprises two 204 Ah batteries, a Lynx distributor, a distribution panel, an MPPT solar booster, and a 3,000 W Victron Multiplus II inverter. On top of the van, you’ll find a roof rack integrating 200 W solar panels.
All in all, this professionally-built camper van has everything you need for a comfortable life on the road. Despite its compact size, its layout and the way its high-end features were integrated make it feel spacious.
This 2022 Mercedes Sprinter tiny home on wheels is currently for sale. It’s currently not in use, and its odometer reads 5,500 miles (8,851 km). You can discover more information about it on its listing. Just know the price tag on this bad boy is quite high: $159,000 (€146,050).
