Full Tour Astro Camper Van Completed Build

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Full Tour Astro Camper Van Completed Build

Рет қаралды 216,765

Күн бұрын

This is the full van tour of my 1998 Astro van camper build. Complete with pullout bed, kitchen, office, hidden potty, pine plank walls and ceiling, Dometic Fridge, 300 watts of solar panels, 210 amp hour batteries, an awesome power center and much more.
My Website:
travelingtroy.com
Social Media:
Facebook Page:
/ thetravelingtroy
Instagram:
/ travelingtroy
Twitter:
/ traveling_troy
Organized Obie - Barrier Stretch Nets:
www.organizedo...
US Battery (my battery provider)
usbattery.com/p...
Van Build Products (Some Affiliate Links)
Astro Van Specs: bit.ly/2tgiZMr
Electrical:
(2) 6 volt AGM US Batteries - bit.ly/2M47BtK
(3) 100 Watt Renogy Solar Panels: amzn.to/2ymy0AY
Battery Charger: amzn.to/2ymnSIF
Shore Power Inlet: amzn.to/2ymlBgI
Blue Sea Fuse Block: amzn.to/2yrYDoi
Blue Sea Bus Bar: amzn.to/2t86QsQ
Solar Charger: amzn.to/2ymlTnO
Digital Current Display: amzn.to/2M0TfKP
Fantastic Fan: amzn.to/2t8YCR4
Endless Breeze Fan: amzn.to/2MFdmz7
Dometic Fridge: amzn.to/2lo8D8V
Random Products in the Van (Some Affiliate Links)
Thetford 260b Porta Potti: amzn.to/2MYm4st
Ultra Touch Radiant Barrier: thd.co/2tb0b0P
Traffic Master Flooring: thd.co/2M5ZJbg
Flooring Adhesive: thd.co/2t5HwDJ
Trowel for Adhesive: thd.co/2llN0Gc
Swivel Seat Plate: amzn.to/2I7iV5Y
Gas One Burner: amzn.to/2ymprXa
Kitchen Sink: amzn.to/2M7a2f1
Bar Sink Drain: amzn.to/2yrrlFK
Gray Water Drain Hose: amzn.to/2K6CyAj
Pine Wall/Ceiling Planks: thd.co/2K22gm
Porta Potti Door Bolt: thd.co/2uiNGAa

Пікірлер: 712

@TravelingTroy 3 жыл бұрын

You can check out my Full Van Build Series playlist here: kzfaq.info/sun/PLj-Tp2IL6ouKssv7oK7m-Vvu45iJD3j1G

@ForrestNeal 2 жыл бұрын

Honestly you have the most functional and comfortable Astrovan I've seen yet. I have a GMC Safari, basically the same thing and I'm building it out to look something like yours!

@dee5331 2 жыл бұрын

This is the all time best van tour I've ever seen in the 4yrs of watching them! Bravo! Thk you so much

@chriswells6974 3 жыл бұрын

I love looking at vans that a person brings out there own style of identity is a gift we are all blessed with

@TravelingTroy 3 жыл бұрын

Cool! Thanks for checking out my build. Yeah, there is no right or wrong way to do a van build. Do what feels right to you. ;)

@chriswells6974 3 жыл бұрын

@@TravelingTroy hell I'm even thinking about putting a stripper pole in mine

@Contrary_Sheby 5 жыл бұрын

I love looking at vans that aren't fancy smancy

@livingthedash6727 4 жыл бұрын

Same. More practicality.

@chriswells6974 3 жыл бұрын

I'm putting a stripper pole in mine

@michaelanderson1859 5 жыл бұрын

I like how you kept it real simple plain on the outside. With curtains pulled, just looks like a work van. Attracts less attention.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Right. People ask me why I don’t paint and make it fancy on the outside. Well, that would take away from the work van look. :)

@rimonagale1625 6 жыл бұрын

Exceptional van build. Love the dual kitchen access too.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Thanks for checking out the tour. :)

@rxbasu 3 жыл бұрын

Agreed. Way too many builds have outside-only access. That makes no sense to me.

@lordkestlerful 5 жыл бұрын

Ive seen the Astros go well over 500.000 miles as i maintained a fleet of them

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome! The engine has been great. My van is in the shop now getting the dreaded fuel pump replaced. I don't have an inside the van access door, so they're pulling the gas tank down to get to it.

@markeast1574 5 жыл бұрын

That's good to know I have a 98'with 198000 miles on it

@yazanfarraj5499 3 жыл бұрын

Hi dr.frank i have 98 astro cargo. 2nd owner 239k on the dash ive had van for less than a year. Differential ran out oil and broke rear 1k less than a week having electrical issues any tips or suggestions on common shorts/trouble wires i can check

@lordkestlerful 3 жыл бұрын

@@yazanfarraj5499 Check all your grounds

@Lilmiket1000 3 жыл бұрын

@@TravelingTroy Aww damn. Mine is a 1992 and has 145k on it. Also in need of a fuel pump right now. seems to be a common thing.

@mobilehomelife4028 5 жыл бұрын

I started out looking at vans as my first choice for converting to an RV, however, I could not pass up a diesel short bus. I love watching these types of van builds because they keep me on the path I want which is minimalist living. There are a lot of great ideas from van builds.

@nubetoob9292 5 жыл бұрын

Holy crap man. This is an awesome van build. I converted my gmc safari.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@shawnburke2770 5 жыл бұрын

I love the fine details you explain and show. Amazing build. Please grommet the holes in the aluminum plate behind the power center where the wiring goes thru or put some protection around those wires

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Shawn. Thanks for checking out my van build. I appreciate your comment and will pop open the power center and see if I can track down the wires you are talking about. Thanks!

@AskPiaAkashic 5 жыл бұрын

I'm doing my research for an Astro. I used to have one for my mobile massage biz. Wish I kept it! This layout is perfect for me. I'm a designer and I think you did a top notch job. Super organized and tidy. Thank you.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Astro vans are small, so you really have to plan out the space. :)

@AskPiaAkashic 5 жыл бұрын

I'm a lean machine

@JosephCompnotta 6 жыл бұрын

I have a 03' and it just broke,200,000 NO issues at all

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

WOOOOOOOOOOOT!!!

@jonalarcon8564 5 жыл бұрын

Joseph Compnotta hell yeah. Great van I had 198.000 on mine. But last fri some guy hit me at 40 mph I was at a dead stop getting off the freeway he totaled my 2002 astro . I was more the a lil sad . Hes definitely going to buy me another astro

@anthonyjcarrillo 4 жыл бұрын

218000 miles and running STRONG. Ive only replaced the radiator and fuel pump other than standard maintenance things. One of the best vehicles ever produced. Ive seen them go well over 500k with minimal repairs.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome Anthony! My van just rolled 152,000. I’ve done a lot of suspension work, wheel bearings, water pump, fuel pump.....plus lots more. Still way less than what I would be spending on an apartment and repairs on some other vehicle. 👍

@Uncivilize 5 жыл бұрын

Hi, I'm a seamstress, and I like the tape on the bottom of the curtains instead of sewing because it provides a bit of weight to hold them down. Looks good too. When the tape gets dirty, put some new tape on!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Cool! I'm not crazy to be using tape. :) Thanks! You're right, it does add some weight to keep the curtains down and the tape holds up really well.

@theempowermentproject3636 5 жыл бұрын

Very clean and simple (while functional) build. Love how neat and secure the power system is.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks! My Dad did a fantastic job on the power system and it has operated flawlessly thus far.

@wastelandgoat8950 4 жыл бұрын

I just became the owner of an '05 Astro Cargo van, It was a internet service unit for 10 years and sold as surplus. 165k on the Speedo After the strip out the crap I don't want inside and good cleaning I plan on making it a camper as well.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

That’s cool! Good luck with the build. My van was a phone company service van as well. They usually do regular maintenance on these vans to protect their investment, so it should be good for a while. Congrats. I bought mine at 106k and now have 145k. Still running great with repairs here and there.

@MariafromthePhilippineIslands 3 жыл бұрын

This is one of my most favorite layout. 🤩🤩 Enjoy the journey!! 🚐🚐

@TravelingTroy 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I’ve had the van for 6 years now and have lived/traveled in it for 5 1/2. The layout has worked out well. 😁. Thanks for checking out the video. 👍

@davesullivan8073 4 жыл бұрын

These Are the kind of builds I really love because these guys use very minimal stuff, use it very effectively and efficiently , and the cost is extra low. nice job dude.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks a ton Dave! The cost was extra low compared to many other builds...but not the cheapest. I want to make a video showing how you can build a camper van for Super Cheap.😁

@ruabadkitty 4 жыл бұрын

Mine, a 2001 Astro has 206,000 on her and running strong. Taking her out to New Mexico this summer from Florida. I have a new mechanic and he had to put a pulley in. That is the only problem I have ever had. But I am a stickler on keeping her up to par. The body is not doing so well but I could care less as long as I get down the road. My friend who had an older one and he had 300k then trany went out. I love mine but they are small and I have a big dog. I would take that van to Alaska today if I could. I found your chanel because of your Van. I was looking for tips and I stayed because you have good content also. Thanks.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Cool deal! Glad you found my channel. True. I hear these Astro van will last a long time if you take care of them and keep up with the maintenance. I’m just about to roll 150,000 on mine, bought it at 106,000. I would love to do a summer in Alaska with my Astro...it’s on the todo list for sure. I’ve been to Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado the past two summers and all three states have great areas that stay cool. I did go to Utah last summer as well and it did get hot, but well worth the trip. Good luck with your van. I hope it goes a couple 100k more. Thanks for checking out my videos! 😁✌️😎

@andrewconway7730 4 жыл бұрын

Great build. Love the way you set it up. Not sure why more people don't convert an Astro van into a camper. Seems like the perfect size for a stealth camper.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Andrew. 👍 Right, I think the Astro van is a good size for one person, maybe even with a small pet companion. Two people would be cramped, but I’ve seen people do it.

@gizmowidget4300 5 жыл бұрын

Hey brother. I did some mods. But i average 23.2 mpg and I was living in her for the past year. Now shes just for work i have over 300k on her and she still runs like a beast. All you need is good maintenance and... Lucas oil. Thats all ive ever done. That and sea foam everyother fill up. Cool man

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

That’s good to hear. I hope mine lasts as long as your Astro. :)

@locuscades1906 5 жыл бұрын

You're a child, and I absolutely love it. Astro vans are best vans.

@beeceestory 6 жыл бұрын

one of the best van build outs

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Awesome Brenda! Thanks for watching/commenting.

@jamessherman8954 5 жыл бұрын

Go Astros....... that's why you have an Astro van.... nice setup good video explains everything...

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

I should have Houston Astros stickers all over my van. Haha! The Astros are looking pretty good this year. Thanks for checking out the video.

@emil7163 6 жыл бұрын

I love the kitchen setup, most builds are made to cook outside but i like that you have it set up so you can cook inside

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Arctic Fox. I've been very happy with the dual inside/outside cooking setup. They both have their pros and cons. I would say I use the inside setup the most.

@forestyforest 5 жыл бұрын

This is the coolest setup I've ever seen. 👍

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks! We appreciate the great compliment. :)

@WildCaptures 5 жыл бұрын

Great van build, a lot of attention to detail. Your Dad did an excellent job on that power center 👍🏻👍🏻

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Steve. Yes, my Dad did a fantastic job on the power center. It has worked flawlessly now for about 2 years. Love it :)

@mariannekennedy1244 6 жыл бұрын

I love this van. So wonderfully compact and organized!

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Woot! Thanks Marianne. Yes, we fit quite a bit in there and still have a hallway (of sorts). LOL!

@4dnblovelyfe769 5 жыл бұрын

WOW..my husband LOVES ASTRO VANS

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Astro Vans Rock! Ha! Thanks for checking out the video. :)

@woffordsoverlandjourneys8618 4 жыл бұрын

Love the layout of the van I have a 03 Astro van that I am modifying in converting

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Nice! I’ve been hearing about many people working on Astro van builds. That’s great! I’ve been living in mine now for 4 1/2 years, so it can be done. I wish I could stand up to put on jeans, but I get by, plus I have the whole outside of the van for standing. :)

@sevtattoos2169 6 жыл бұрын

Just subscribed :) Nice build...I especially like how you made your own roof rack. I have a 2000 Astro that I'm about to start converting.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Awesome Sarah! I just watched your "Getting the Astro" video, so I'll comment about it over there. A new build! It's exciting! :)

@sevtattoos2169 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks, yes it is!

@sylviajones4907 5 жыл бұрын

Plus the tape adds weight to keep the curtain hang straight. Nice build!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Sylvia! The curtain tape job has really held up well. :)

@astrobear8790 2 жыл бұрын

i really dig you're little desk setup with the swivel chair. Im writing that down! lol. great job man!!!

@asailorandhisdogslyknight5391 5 жыл бұрын

Very nice build, compact and ready, Dad did a nice job on your electrical power unit.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

+A sailor and his dog SlyKnight Yes, the power center has been great. Thanks for checking out the video.

@CrystalVanner 5 жыл бұрын

ABSOLUTELY love that you can do coming both ways, great build!!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Crystal. Yes, cooking inside the van while in the city or while it’s raining is great. Also, it’s nice to have the doors open and cook from the back of the van at state or national parks. :). Thanks for checking out the video.

@thespacecowboy420 4 жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing your build I just got my money pit, 6 months from now should be a like-new 94 AWD EXT!

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Cool! Good luck with the build, maintenance, repairs..etc. 😁👍

@XC797 4 жыл бұрын

I like your van tour because it's all straight to the nuts and bolts instead of taking 30 plus minutes to show a 15 minute tour.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I’m sure it was 30 mins before editing. Haha! I cut out a bunch of the chatter. Detailed explanations are cool, but rambling isn’t. :)

@MrJohnv8386 5 жыл бұрын

I have a 93 Astro that I am currently building for cross-country trip I have already put a new motor in and all new suspension and steering that was essential but my 250000 mile Van I feel has another 250k left in it these are awesome vans and your build is inspiring going to take a lot of notes from your videos

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Excellent! Good luck with your van and the road trip. Yes, Astro vans have some quirks, but were well made van. I recently finished a 106 day road trip and the van was great. Put on about 8000 miles.

@plasmaguy5 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome Man

@LifeinThirdPlaces 2 жыл бұрын

I literally said, "GO COOGS!" when you did. 😂Love so much about your build. I'm in the market for an Astro right now. My family had one when I was growing up and it was a reliable beast that I love taking on road trips!

@nitusa3694 4 жыл бұрын

That the cleanest battery center I have seen yet. Nice build mate.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I always give my Dad full credit. He is the master behind the power center. 👍😁 It’s been working great for over 4 years now! 🚐💨

@chriscook1987 4 жыл бұрын

Superb build , very practical and simple in a good way. Good Job Troy .

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Chris!

@rickanderson11 5 жыл бұрын

Yours is a great and well planned build! But your Dad steals the show. I've seen many of these vids but have never seen electrical work of this caliber in a van solar setup before. Go Troy and GO DAD! lol

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Rick! Yes, my Dad did a fantastic job on the electrical and other aspects of the build. I’m very grateful for his assistance. I learned so much from him during this build. It was amazing!

@jeffreym6251 5 жыл бұрын

I'm very psyched. But honestly, the wiring and electronics deem daunting.....

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Yes, it is a bit difficult, but can be learned. A simple setup at first, then you can add-on components or grow it larger later.

@attheranch873 6 жыл бұрын

Taping up the curtains a good idea, I would’ve never thought of that.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

+Birdsong Thank you. I used an industrial strength duct tape, so it's still holding up well. 😀

@Tatdude1957 6 жыл бұрын

Brilliant! Your organization is impeccable!

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you, Jim.

@Snarge22 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent video Troy! At 6'7" I'm going to take a pass on the Astro Van, but am very, Very intrigued with a simpler camper/RV and the conversions. Thanks for your video!

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Ha! Yes, the Astro is a very small space. I keep wanting to expand and do things, then realize, oh wait, I don’t have the room for that. 👍😁

@MrEvodio65 4 жыл бұрын

One of the few reliable Chevis around.

@MsSoozy 6 жыл бұрын

I have a 96 Astro and this is one of the main reasons why I started following you, cause you have one too. Mine has 227,000 km's being in BC we are in kilometers, so roughly 141,000 miles, which is not bad at all. I like your setup, but for me, I would have my bed set up in the rear, so I could leave it up all the time as I have dogs that would no doubt be on it while traveling. I don't live in my van but I do want to do some week long outings.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Oh, that's cool. 96 Astro, that's one of the originals, almost. Think the first year was 95. I hear ya on doing the bed in the back and just letting it stay as a bed. I too would have done that if the van was wide enough, but it's not. :( Yes, 141k miles is very low for a 96...Awesome! I have 129,500 miles on mine. Well, have fun with your van. Keep me posted. :)

@markeast1574 5 жыл бұрын

This is one of the best van builds i've seen you gave me some great ideas for my 98' Astro

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome Mark! Good luck with your Astro build.

@OneMiketoLive 5 жыл бұрын

Your dad must be a real wise man, Troy. That control center is worthy of a NASA engineering blueprint. "Well done, Dad!"

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Thanks for the GREAT comment. I forwarded it to my Dad. He'll love it. Thanks for watching. :)

@4yellowwolf 5 жыл бұрын

I love the way the power center was set up. Your dad did a great job!!!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

For sure, he did a fantastic job on the power center. I just met up with my Dad on the road in Colorado. He was impressed that the power center has held up so well after 4 years of use. Besides swapping out 2 fuses and replacing a worn out inverter, the power center has performed amazingly. Go DAD!! 👍😁

@Mike__james 2 жыл бұрын

Those engines are awsome last you a long time.

@PidasianHippie 6 жыл бұрын

Troy, you and your dad definitely built out the best Astro Camper Van that I have seen. It is very well thought out.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks! We had plenty of time to think and plan. LOL! Since it took 3 years to build. My buddy, Eric, labeled it "The Best Astro Build in the Country". He's too nice. :)

@PidasianHippie 6 жыл бұрын

He may be nice but he is right!

@aumetalmental8403 5 жыл бұрын

Glad to see some true thought and not another hack job. I have an AWD version and watched many videos for ideas for mine. Swivel plate for office chair is awesome and proper. "All" others hacked seat up and mounted on top of seat bracket instead of floor mounting underneath. Obvious issue was geometry as top of seat bracket is angled. When you spin the chair, you are now sliding out of it. And it's arched not flat.🤗

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

True. We researched it and saw those same issues with others and decided to put the swivel plate on the flat floor. Good catch. ;)

@atomshoemaker5297 3 жыл бұрын

i just got an astro van with plans to convert. alota grate ideas thanks for the vid!

@TravelingTroy 3 жыл бұрын

Sure thing! Good luck with your build! 👍😁

@Liam8488 5 жыл бұрын

That barrier netting is cool. Very good build

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I really like the netting as well. Thinking about adding more on my empty driver's side wall.

@catdaddy2899 6 жыл бұрын

Nice set up Troy.. Heck yeah Go Astros!!! H-Town all the way!!! Dude I really like this setup. It's good to see you back on KZfaq bro.. Take care and God bless

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks! :) Having a blast with the van.

@StaticCamperVan 6 жыл бұрын

Great to see your van finished and you out on the road!

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Indeed! It was quite a long process, but so glad it's complete. Now, if I can just kick this coffee habit. ;) But, they just emailed me and want to give me a free coffee for my b-day on Thurs. Can't pass that up? Right?

@StaticCamperVan 6 жыл бұрын

Traveling Troy Hahahah. Ok, just that last one.

@JavierBonillaC 5 жыл бұрын

Man I love your van. It is small and homely. Don't go for anything bigher, part of the Supertramp life is not having a fancy Mercedes Sprinter.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Right! I see some super fancy Sprinters out there, but I'm sure they will be paying for their vans and builds for a while.

@ivygarcia9525 3 жыл бұрын

Very cool setup! I hope you're enjoying it as much as you were in 2018! 😊👍🏼

@TravelingTroy 3 жыл бұрын

Indeed! Really enjoying the van. I’ve owned it now for 6 years and have been living/traveling in it for 5 1/2 years. I have only made minor changes to the original build. 👍 Thanks for watching. ✌️

@nerd_vision1253 5 жыл бұрын

Totally dig the curtain and tape. Thank you for this tip

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Excellent! The tape has worked soooo well. ;) Easy to repair too, more tape. :)

@bobaconda1386 5 жыл бұрын

Nice job Bud. I've been contemplating doing an astro van and you did a lot of neat things. Love the power board your Dad built. I would have a higher watt inverter. The netting is a brilliant idea. Hope you are proud of it. Bob

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

True. A higher watt inverter would have been nice. My Dad was trying to cut costs and we determined my 180 watt laptop was the highest draw. Thanks for checking out the build.

@chuckstubblebine1147 5 жыл бұрын

I have a 2004 Chevy astro van. 235k miles still runs strong

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome Chuck! I always like to hear how others are fairing with their Astro vans. Go for 300k! :)

@lyndasmith593 5 жыл бұрын

This is the coolest most well-done small van think I've ever seen. Kudos !!!!!!!!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Wow! Awesome Lynda! Glad you like it. The van recently performed great on a 106 day road trip thru Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and Colorado. I hope to explore more places with it soon. Thanks for checking out the video. :)

@samp3954 5 жыл бұрын

Super smart dude for getting that engine with those miles

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Sam! Currently at 135,000 :)

@samp3954 5 жыл бұрын

@@TravelingTroy keep turning that odometer. I plan on doing what you are some day.

@edwardkendall1413 6 жыл бұрын

Great work Troy!!! Currently camping in my 98 Astro in Lake George NY.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Excellent! How is the weather at Lake George?

@edwardkendall1413 6 жыл бұрын

Traveling Troy the weather has been pretty nice mid 70s and low 80s

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Nice!

@tonylocks28 6 жыл бұрын

Upstate NY, many beautiful spots. Big state.

@theempowermentproject3636 5 жыл бұрын

I hope you're not still in Lake George now... so cold!

@maryzaletel4928 5 жыл бұрын

Wow. I love your van! Great job!!👍👍👍

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@dgavern 2 жыл бұрын

Seen countless videos and van tours and while it’s great to grab ideas from here and there, this is the most consolidated functional preferable build I’ve seen - great job to you and your pops! The layout is awesome, I’m sure I dig it because I work in tech as well!

@Lilmiket1000 3 жыл бұрын

This is just amazing. The brainstorming you must do to imagine how to fit a whole house into a space the size of a van. And that's by far not one of the biggest vans either. I have an astro van extended model. But Id like to convert some kinda cargo van. Something a little longer. But also stealth.

@TravelingTroy 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks! Yes, lots of brainstorming sessions. My Dad and I would finish a section of the build, like the bed, and then grab a cold one, sit in the van and bounce ideas off each other on how we should build the next section. It’s nice to have a plan, but it’s also good to think outside the plan, while the build is in progress to spark those fresh ideas. The Astro van IS a very small van and we are certainly proud of the fact that we fit everything in it, except a shower. But, I now have a privacy/shower tent for that. 😉👍 Thanks for checking out the video and good luck with your future van build. 🚐💨

@Lilmiket1000 3 жыл бұрын

@@TravelingTroy Thank you thank you. It's all so genius! I'm sure it gives you such a feeling of freedom.

@ZZZardoz762 5 жыл бұрын

Freakin' AWESOME! Very well laid-out; I believe this is how I'll set up my minivan

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Cool deal! Glad my build gave you some ideas for your build. Good luck with it and thanks for checking out the video. :)

@jamesbradford2378 4 жыл бұрын

Great build, I am going to do something similar only I think 💭 I will do a Chev Express for a little more room👍😊

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

More room is a great idea. About every other month, I go thru my van and figure out what I do and don’t need, so I can maximize my space for things I actually use. Of course, if I had a bigger van, the problem would be the same, but I could fit more. 😁👍

@villipoto1640 5 жыл бұрын

Absolutely love the layout of your van. Perfect use of the available space. Im in the market for and astro myself and may duplicate your exact build once I have one.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Chip. The build has been working out great. Good luck with your future van. :)

@georgeburke7215 4 жыл бұрын

Those Astro vans are a tough machine they get good gas mileage and they last forever you can’t kill them I used to repo vehicles years ago I repoed many a Astro van they looked like they were on their last leg but were still running strong

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

For sure. Astro vans just keep going. Last year made was 2005. I still see them on the road everywhere. 👍

@mariannekennedy1244 6 жыл бұрын

I just bought a '98 Astro. I love it. Haven't started outfitting yet, but I love the size and space.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Good luck with your build. Have a look at my build videos for ideas. Everything from insulation to electrical.

@chrislarimore4096 5 жыл бұрын

I like your voice over commentary better then when people do with the camera mic

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I'm awkward with the camera in my face, but getting better. Voice-Over is more relaxing but more work. Thanks for checking out the video.

@shawnhallum4524 3 жыл бұрын

Simply amazing video but I would not put the lock on the outside of the door like you have it I would have put it on the inside which would make it more secure

@JoJo-Chris 5 жыл бұрын

Best power center I've seen so far! Your dad rocked it 😊

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jodi! Yes indeed, Dad rocked it! Thanks for watching.

@socalbum1971 5 жыл бұрын

Hey Troy! I've been looking to do a van conversion also. I bought an AWD Astro cargo van to do it. When I was looking for layouts for the van I couldn't find one that I thought was really functional until I saw your video! I love your layout! It is perfect! The one thing you might add is a shower but you already have the shower curtain rod! Haha! Can't wait until I finish and get on the road! Thanks for the videos, they are going to be my guide!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Welcome to the Astro Van Club. :) Good idea getting the AWD. In some situations, I wish I had AWD to get into those secluded locations. Not having a shower isn't so bad. My gym membership worked out pretty well for that. Being from Texas where it's still hot and humid in October, I feel like I need to shower everyday. On the road, like my trip to Colorado, showers weren't a daily requirement. It wasn't hot enough to sweat. :) Good luck with your van build. Glad the videos were helpful.

@socalbum1971 5 жыл бұрын

Hey Troy, roughly how much did you spend on the build (not including labor, refrigerator, stove, etc) just the shell and the electrical?

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

1st I purchased the van for $4000. 106k miles, ex-phone company vehicle with all maintenance records. Over a 3 year period, I did maintenance and repairs as needed to get the van road ready which cost in the neighborhood of $2500. New tires, new brakes, suspension repairs and power steering fluid leak to name a few. I haven't totaled up the cost for the build, but it was also in the neighborhood of $2500. At some point, I will put all the numbers together and make a video on this topic. Thanks for the question.

@gizmowidget1558 5 жыл бұрын

Nice dude, I'm at 298098 miles, thing runs like a top. Do your maintenance, and use Lucas oil with every oil change and your pretty much golden.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Wow! Almost 300k! That's amazing! Hope mine goes a while. :)

@gizmowidget1558 5 жыл бұрын

@@TravelingTroy update.... hit 300K! Still running like a champ, did buy a new alternator but it came with a lifetime warranty so it breaks again I get a new one . Keep up the van life brother!

@sammynhem4218 6 жыл бұрын

Wow! I just love it!!

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Samantha!

@MariafromthePhilippineIslands 5 жыл бұрын

Excellent lay out. So organized! Double thumbs up!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you Maria! Things get messy and unorganized quick in such a small space, but the good news is it doesn’t take long to get it back to clean and organized. :)

@tinabeane 6 жыл бұрын

Absolutely amazing job!!! With how small your van is compared to a cargo van, it looks just so much larger inside there. Very nice, clean, great organization and well thought out. Your dad did a sweet job setting up your power system. Have a blast at the Grand Canyon and a wonderful Birthday!!!!!!! :)

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much for the wonderful compliments. I think my Dad secretly reads the comments, so he'll love this one. :) Yes, my Dad did a hell of a job on the power center. I look at it and REALLY appreciate it every day. I love pulling up next to big Class A RVs knowing that my van is small, but has most of what they have for an extremely small fraction of the cost. :)

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Oh, and thanks for the birthday wishes! Thursday is the big day. :)

@tonylocks28 6 жыл бұрын

Not too shabby there fella. Love Chevy Astros, seems when they get it right, they stop making them. 🙄 I know auto mechanics hate working on them because the engine is half under the windshield. Very Hard to reach things. Nice build.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

True. They can be difficult to work on, for sure. Thanks for checking out the tour.

@MrKalon52 5 жыл бұрын

Go Stros!!! Sorry we missed you at the rv show.

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Yes, sorry I missed you all and RV Texas Y’all at the RV show. We went down every row and explored many models. Had a good time there with my buddy Greg. Love the ‘Stros! Currently following the UH Coogs and Rockets closely.

@Kayte... 6 жыл бұрын

Very nice van build. Very practical and a job well done. Thanks for sharing.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I really appreciate your feed back.

@OpticalXray 4 жыл бұрын

That was a piano key tap for the office desk lol your layout is on point

@mindyvaughn8217 5 жыл бұрын

Really magnificent!! So brilliantly done. Love it!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mindy! I give A LOT of credit to my Dad. He’s the retired electrical engineer, but I did put in a few key ideas. ;)

@2wrolling973 6 жыл бұрын

Great build and video

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@joshuafrailey7965 5 жыл бұрын

I'm buying a Econoline 150 Wed 200000 miles and has a high top for 800$. I can't wait

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Can't beat the price. Good luck with the build. (guessing that's what you plan to do)

@cindychurch925 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tour. Love how you built this! Great tips

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@jaym9529 5 жыл бұрын

Very impressed. Great job

@FrankGuitar 5 жыл бұрын

Hmm, great setup!

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@PS_on_youtube 6 жыл бұрын

Wow, Impressive! And i thought I had a great setup with my minivan... ;) I really like the refrigerator and sink functionality and location. I was planning to add a sink, but in the past month I have decided to upgrade to a Ford Econoline, so I am going to wait until I make that purchase then install a sink. Your design/layout and space utilization is VERY impressive. The Astro vans are kind of like 'short' cargo vans. Additionally, I absolutely love the bungee/netting setup you have, it's very creative and simple at the same time. You got a SUB from me, definitely looking forward to more videos.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

Cool deal! Thanks for the compliments. The Astro van is working out really well, but it is small. I will check out your minivan setup. Yeah, the nets have been great. I've been thinking of getting more to hang on my walls for extra storage. Good luck with your Econoline build. That will be a nice space improvement from the minivan. :)

@adamadams6740 3 жыл бұрын

Picked it cuz Astro’s are G’d up from the feet up!!!! Nuff said lol

@easyrider920 5 жыл бұрын

Im sitting here in my 10th astro/safari. Wish I still had my 1985 with carburetor. 24 mpg

@TravelingTroy 5 жыл бұрын

Wow! 10th Astro. That's Awesome!

@lovebaja 4 жыл бұрын

Fascinating what you did with this Astro! That's honestly one of the most practical builds I've ever seen and your power setup is just incredible. Yes, the GM 4.3 must be the very best American V6 engine ever. I had an '87 Astro that I bought used for $1,800. Dropped in a rebuilt 4.3, drove the wheels off of it for the next decade and sold it for $2700. I have some videos on my channel of my 4x4 Econoline I drove all over Baja California.

@TravelingTroy 4 жыл бұрын

Cool, I’ll check out some of your videos. Yes, the Astro engine is GREAT! What a return on your initial investment. Awesome! I bought mine for $4000. I suspect it’s worth a bit more now. 😉

@MrBagley55 6 жыл бұрын

Astros were one of the BEST products Chevy ever produced.

@TravelingTroy 6 жыл бұрын

True! From 1985 - 2005, then they stopped producing them. They are hard to work on, so mechanics may not like them with half the engine being under the dash, but great vans in my opinion.

@michaelanderson1859 5 жыл бұрын

They werent made to be.family Van's so they don't have the smoothest ride, but they were made to be work trucks so they are built like a tank with a good motor transmission that can take. Beating.