Day 95: Electrical Wiring and Devices on Roof – Day 1
Projects
- Installing PVC conduit and junction boxes on roof
- Running power and ethernet wires through conduit
- Installing 2020 aluminum extrusion on existing Flatline Rack 80/20 extrusion
- Installing small LED lights
Project Status
- Not complete
Time Spent
- 12 Hours
Steps Taken
- Put mental junction box together
- Drill holes in junction box for wire glands
- Install wire glands in drilled holes in junction box
- Use heat gun and solder seal wire connectors to splice power wires from LED light bar together
- Run power and ethernet wires through junction box
- Cut PVC pipe and install on junction box
- Move Flatline Roof Rack 80/20 extrusion cross beams to fit length of solar panels
- Install 2020 aluminum extrusion on top of Flatline Roof Rack 80/20 extrusion with corner brackets
- Bring 2 solar panels up on roof for fitting purposes
- Cut 2020 extrusion to size
- Cut and drill holes in flat aluminum plates to size to lift up small LED lights (2 plates per light)
- Mount 2 small LED lights on 2020 extrusion on passenger side of roof
Materials Used
- Keep in mind that prices frequently fluctuate.
- It’s common for products to be delisted on Amazon. If you find a delisted product, please Email Me at steve@campervanfreedom.com and I will fix it.
Nilight – 71017C-A 54″ 312W Curved LED Work Light
IXGNIJ 10pcs 2000mm T Slot 2020 Aluminum Extrusion
The Hillman Group 300018 1/4″ Split Lock Washer, Steel, 100 Pieces
Medium Strength Thread Locker 243
12 Pieces Square Aluminum Flat Bar, 1/8″ Thickness X 1.2″ Width X 12″ Length
Transit Van Low Pro Roof Rack | 148″ High Rook Extended
![letsFix 3/4" PVC Pipe, DIY PVC Projects for the Home, Garden, Greenhouse, Farm and Workshop, Sch. 40 Furniture Grade, White [40" x 10 Pack]](https://i0.wp.com/campervanfreedom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/517F0g8RpPL._AC_SL1001_.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1)
Tools Used
Dewalt DCD794B 20V MAX ATOMIC COMPACT SERIES Brushless Lithium-Ion 1/2 in. Cordless Drill Driver
DEWALT Titanium Nitride Coated Drill Bit Set, Pilot Point, 21-Piece
DEWALT 12-Inch Miter Saw, 15-Amp, Single Bevel, Compound (DWS715)
DEWALT Miter Saw Stand, Heavy Duty with Miter Saw Mounting Brakets (DWX725B)
COMOWARE Circular Miter Saw Blade – 12-inch 100 Tooth TCG Metal Saw Blade
NEIKO 10048A Security Bit Set 100-Piece Set
DEWALT DWHT70263M Ergonomic Push Button Locking Folding Metric Hex Key Set
Notes
- Sliced my fingers open several times. Big cut when running finger along metal mounts on solar panels. Bled all over everything and didn’t care.
- Beautiful sunset and clouds around 6 to 7pm.
Pictures
Short Video
Plans For Tomorrow
- Continue work on roof electrical items
Long-Form Article
Projects: A Van Life Adventure
In my latest Project Freedom endeavor, I set out on a multifaceted modification project for my Ford Transit, aiming to boost functionality and comfort for my life on the road. This video diary is a personal account of my journey through the installation of PVC conduit, junction boxes, LED lighting, and a solar panel setup, all significant strides in my pursuit of freedom and efficiency within the van life community.
Project Status: Not Complete
Time Spent: 12 Hours
Embarking on Enhanced Living
My project kicked off with a clear vision: to upgrade my van’s electrical and lighting systems for seamless integration with my existing Flatline Rack 80/20 extrusion. This goal was ambitious, reflecting my commitment to the comfort and practicality essential for living the van life at a high level.
Step-by-Step Towards the Bigger Picture
Project management was all on me, unfolding in detailed steps that painted the bigger picture of Project Freedom:
- The assembly of a metal junction box and meticulous drilling for wire glands were my first steps towards a secure electrical foundation.
- Soldering and splicing power wires, coupled with running power and Ethernet wires through the junction box, guaranteed a seamless electrical flow.
- I then moved the Flatline Roof Rack and added 2020 aluminum extrusion to boost the structural integrity and versatility of my setup.
- A key highlight was installing tiny LED lights, ensuring my nights were bathed in efficient, soft illumination.
- The careful process of positioning solar panels on the roof was a testament to my commitment to sustainable living on the open roads.
Materials and Tools: The Foundation of My Project
I chose a range of materials and tools for their quality and compatibility with my van life requirements, from the Nilight LED Work Light to the Sealproof Weatherproof Electrical Outlet Box. Employing tools from DEWALT’s Cordless Drill Driver to the Heat Gun was crucial in bringing my vision to life.
Challenges and Triumphs on the Road
The journey wasn’t smooth sailing. From minor injuries to battles against time and the elements, each obstacle was met with relentless determination. Yet, witnessing a beautiful sunset around my workspace was a profound reminder of why I chose this life adventure.
Reflections and Forward Steps
Reflecting on the progress, I’m reminded of van life’s essence—a mix of challenges, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of freedom. While my project isn’t complete, every step is a testament to the personal growth journey inherent in the van life community. My project embodies the life adventure that van living offers, from practical enhancements to aesthetic uplifts.
Staying Connected
For those interested in my journey, eager to learn more about my projects, or looking to share insights, I’m active on social media and within various Facebook groups, connecting with like-minded van lifers. You can also reach me via email at steve@campervanfreedom.com. Whether you’re a seasoned van lifer or just starting your path to freedom, I welcome you to join me in this ever-evolving adventure, where working spaces often blend with mountain biking trails, and the box office is the stunning view from our windows.