Mercedes Sprinter camper van maxxair fan install.

Рет қаралды 133,444

7 жыл бұрын

How to install a Maxxair vent fan in a Mercedes Sprinter. This is applicable both to the NCV3 (2007-2018) as well as the VS30 (2019+), as Mercedes did not change the body behind the B pillars. See the complete write-up here: ourkaravan.com
All products used in our build can be found at ourkaravan.com ; click on "store" in upper right corner.
If the store does not work, here are the direct product links:
Maxxair Fan: amzn.to/2yLDT6J
Dicor lap sealant (gray): amzn.to/2fFWBI2
3M 4200 marine sealant: amzn.to/2vYeKaQ
Butyl tape: amzn.to/2vAshnI
Sprinter roof adapter: www.ebay.com/itm/Sprinter-NCV...
(As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase)
Tools used:
Bosch jigsaw (newer version of mine): amzn.to/2ks4006
Fine tooth jigsaw blades: amzn.to/2krNEV8
Website: ourkaravan.com
Instagram: our.karavan
MUSIC:
Shine ( Safakash X Maxwell Young) / shine
Strawberry (Jeff Kaale) / strawberry
Note: This video contains affiliate links for which I may be compensated. Please know we only promote products we actually use and believe in.
#maxxair #maxxairfan #diysprinter

Пікірлер: 201

@AmosFernandesamos 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ken. I installed 2 maxx fans yesterday. Your video on the installation was one of the principal ones I relied on to get the job done. Like you, it is raining heavy today and no leaks! Unlike you, it started to rain yesterday while I was installing them! With our advances in technology its a shame the weather person is still unreliable sometimes, haha.

@dalesnale 7 жыл бұрын

Love the install process. Well done Kenetube. Looking forward to the complete build...

@steveeidenschink8059 6 жыл бұрын

Hi Ken, I just finished my Maxxair Fan install. Thank you for your video on this. Its super nice to know what the install entails ahead of time. I ended up using 10-24 nutserts in 1/8" x 1" aluminum strips (similar to the ones you have on top) on the inside of the van. It was a harder than sheet metal screws but it also really firmed up the area around the fan. The adapter was money well spent just for centering the fan.

@como5555 6 жыл бұрын

nice install....very well thought out and I am happy your took your time and did not rush the install...

@absoluteelectricwat 6 жыл бұрын

I really appreciate your attention to detail and how methodically you think through everything!

@MrPlasma01 4 жыл бұрын

that's what makes it boring .

@ourkaravan 4 жыл бұрын

Sorry I couldn’t make a diy fan video more epic for you

@questioner1596 2 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan, that's why I've been following your channel all these years. You don't take a break from the fan install to make coffee, walk your dog and water your plants like so many vanlife KZfaqrs. They're the boring ones! 😆

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

Haha!!

@Kmax3000 2 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan ya I appreciate your no-fluff approach! 😉👍

@bigtransitadventures7449 7 жыл бұрын

This is a fantastic how to! Thanks for sharing , doing my homework before I cut into my new transit roof. :) I'm a new sub and look forward to watching your videos! Thanks again and safe travels my friends

@vonrollveeg 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks, very informative. Also, I was really impressed with your craftsmanship.

@nastasiaj 7 жыл бұрын

Another awesomely detailed vid. I really appreciate it. Thanks!! Please keep them coming.

@sahuaritasteve 5 жыл бұрын

Your video is awesome. I installed a Maxxair fan but you put me to shame. Great job.

@juliemason7888 4 жыл бұрын

Been following your IG page for a while after discovering it when researching for our future build. Finally got around to watching your YT videos and appreciating your detail explanations!

@ourkaravan 4 жыл бұрын

Awesome, thank you! The videos can get quite long and aid a person in falling asleep, but it's good to know the detail is appreciated. Take care and thanks for following along both on KZfaq and IG! -Ken

@lancerhome5786 3 жыл бұрын

Make so much sense to install the Maxxair toward the back. Thanks for the great video!!

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

Ideally one would have a fan over the cooking area and over the bed, but I don't have room for both.

@Scrambler85 6 жыл бұрын

Another quality install. I am enjoying the videos keep them posting

@mehoshcommercialphotograph1877 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ken, I appreciate the work you've put into these vids. I live in Santa Barbara also and just purchased a 4WD Cargo Sprinter to dress out much the same as you did. I may be picking your brain from time to time if I get stuck on something. I ordered the same roof fan and a rack from aluminus with an opening for the fan. The rack will take about 6 weeks to build so I'll be installing the fan prior and hopefully the opening in the rack lines up the way it should.

@mehoshcommercialphotograph1877 5 жыл бұрын

Yes Ken. In the rear over the bed. The standard opening for the 144 wheelbase is in the rear and designed to take the MaxxAir fan. That cut 5 weeks off my wait time. Getting their ladder as well which will be mounted on the side so I can swing the doors all the way open. I have two 350w solar panels going in the front. Is your's completed?

@NCJAVIDEO 7 жыл бұрын

Great informative video with good ideas, including the aluminum strips to even out the pressure from the screws in the plastic. In sealing with the Dicor however, the sealant should be applied along the inside of the strips as well as on the screw heads and outer edges of the strips. Potentially water could infiltrate from under the exposed aluminum edges and find its way to the screws Under the aluminum. I just installed the same vent on our Transit van using the adaptor and the aluminum strips and it looks and works great. I did use #8 machine screws and washers in place of sheet metal screws for a more secure and neater inside appearance since the inside of our van will remain unfinished. Thanks for posting the video!

@Diamondscents 6 жыл бұрын

Your lap sealant looks 1000% better than most. I'll be trying to get mine to look like yours.

@cybonik 11 ай бұрын

Installing the butyl tape seam at the back of the flange is the type of detail that sets pros apart from everyone else.

@ourkaravan 11 ай бұрын

Thanks, and that was 6.5 years ago, still holding up well!

@carpenterfamily6198 6 жыл бұрын

Great vid, install and fan. Do wish remote was back lit ! Though I suppose you'd eventually memorize the button locations / functions.

@CamperVanHandyMan 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for posting this, I will be installing the same fan in a week or two (and uploading the vid) but this has been a big help before I do it. Cheers, Jay

@CamperVanHandyMan 6 жыл бұрын

Went in great :-) I didn't use the base plate thing that you have, wouldn't know where to get one here in the UK though anyway. Thanks again for your vid :-)

@ethanschoonover8566 2 жыл бұрын

Very simple and to the point, excellent video!

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

Much appreciated!

@eclecticapoetica Жыл бұрын

Good tip with the aluminium strips - I’ll try to remember that when the time comes.

@coddiwomple5074 4 жыл бұрын

Nicely done!

@Brogs75 7 жыл бұрын

keep up the good work

@biaggiwins 6 жыл бұрын

keep making videos. you are good at it. 👍

@rhoderzau 7 жыл бұрын

Hey, great video thanks! Have you any thoughts on how you could improve the application of the sealant? Would tape help keep the lines straight at least?

@FBall-im8ui 6 жыл бұрын

Hello again Ken, I can't thank you enough for introducing us to the adapter. I have seen so many installs and most of them are a nightmare. I did install mine with the adapter and I am not sure I want to make a mess with the dicer or titebond, it seems to me that with the glue on th bottom, I used sikaflex and the butyl tape I don't see what we would need to add that mess up there, but I'll see if it gets wet inside. Thanks again,

@ironwooddesigns9532 Жыл бұрын

4 years later, does it leak????

@ourkaravan Жыл бұрын

Happy to report it does not. I did a 5 year update on the van here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/itGZicyq1NLIfIk.html There are channel markers so you can fast forward specifically to the fan part of the video.

@mojitomaker 6 жыл бұрын

I just wanted to start by saying how much I enjoy watching your channel. I also wanted to ask you “Have you had any leaks with your roof vent?” I’m about to cut through my new roof and want to understand how realistic I should be about a leak free experience. Cheers, Andrew

@mojitomaker 6 жыл бұрын

kenetube Good advice. Yours is the only build video I’ve seen with the adapter, which is a great find.

@michaelmitchell9832 6 жыл бұрын

That looks great, very well thought out. Any hindsight to cleaning up the sealant or application tips?

@danadawson4381 Жыл бұрын

Because you used the extra aluminum strips to spread the load on the top of the flange you may have created a path for water to go between the inside edge of the aluminum and the Maxx Air flange. This could wick back to the body of the screw and down the threads. The saving grace may be the butyl tape sealing off the screw.

@eclecticapoetica Жыл бұрын

I’d use some extra sealant.

@ourkaravan Жыл бұрын

5.5 years later and going strong. Liberal use of the sealant is never a bad idea though.

@BoarK 7 жыл бұрын

@kenetube, What was your reason for choosing the Maxxair over the Fantastic Fan?

@captainbundington 6 жыл бұрын

Sweet vid! How did you mark and cut the headliner? Any advice/tips?

@SallySparks 6 жыл бұрын

We DID have leaks and water was coming in through the extra aluminum plates we installed on the inside by the mounting flange. Maybe you tightened yours better than we did, but I noticed your DICOR doesn’t cover the aluminum all the way around, either. We’re going to use a window sealant on these spots and hope that does the trick.

@TSnowy23 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you Sally, that's very helpful tip. Can the Bracket adapters be installed anywhere on the van? Ram Promaster 1500 for example? In my plans, I'd like to put a fan over the shower, center of van on left side

@SallySparks 2 жыл бұрын

@@TSnowy23 Not sure.

@peterdods425 4 жыл бұрын

From Diyvan. The company who makes those molds:Hello Peter, The strips are not needed. Some folks over-tighten the screws which squeezes out the butyl tape and depresses the vent flange around the screw head. Just do not to over-tighten the screws. Just snug to the flange is enough. The screws are only holding the vent against our adapter. Adding some fender washers under the screws can also be done if you want. If you overtighten then you aew squeezing out the butyl sealant tape. We sell hundreds of our patent pending adapters and only a few people use the strips. We don't hear of any cracked flanges. It's an internet created fear

@EspaceInfini 7 жыл бұрын

Your doing a excellent job. In two mounths, I will take delivery of my 144wb MB sprinter and I will go thru the same job asyou did ... windows, heater, and skilight .... I have a question for you ...where did you get the Maxxair fam adpator ? Thank again

@brianbates1764 6 жыл бұрын

great videos! When you cut through the roof to install the fan what jigsaw blade did you use?

@danadawson4381 Жыл бұрын

Great video, thank you much for the effort

@ourkaravan Жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@vanarchy8037 7 жыл бұрын

Subscribed and enjoying your vids while I plan out/order parts for my 170 Crew build. Got a link to that adapter?

@amora99121 6 жыл бұрын

I am in the process of installing my maxxair fan on my van, can you lead me to who you purchased that plastic spacer/adapter? Thank you

@letsgohiking6972 6 жыл бұрын

good video, a few questions. the adapter appears to be about 1/2 inches thick? did you use the 1 inch screws that came with the fan or did you get longer ones? if so how long? did you put anything on the inside of the van to screw into?

@robertjay0515 7 жыл бұрын

Does the Sprinter roof rib spacing make a requirement for the adaptor you installed below the fan "base"? I have a Sprinter (2013) van with a Fantastic fan with no adaptor plate. I'd like to do one of these for upgrade/replacement purposes....

@wesleychamberlain6537 5 жыл бұрын

It seems like a silly question, but do you get any interior whistling from the fan? Considering one of these, but do a whole lot of highway driving and wouldn't want it driving me insane daily, since its an irreversible install. Thanks!

@AXODude69 6 жыл бұрын

Also Ken did that spacer come with it? Not sure I heard you say that in video.

@AXODude69 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ken I order the trims 2 of them. I dont always get the down arrow for some reason to see your links

@CanadianTexaninLiguria 6 жыл бұрын

did you consider using 3M VHB tape and 3M sealing tape for a hole free installation?

@mayjortom3770 6 жыл бұрын

Im installing mine shortly. What did you do with the taping screws that are sticking out of the bottom of the roof?

@22mswartz 6 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the well made video! I just completed my install of two MaxxAir fans in my Sprinter 170. I used your video during the entire install. Thank you. One other question, do you have any recommendations in temporary wiring until I do my solar install ?Thanks

@22mswartz 6 жыл бұрын

+kenetube thank you. Yes I have the factory auxiliary battery. So do you think I can wire both fans to one cigarette lighter plug?

@lanceoa 5 жыл бұрын

Do you have any vids of what you have into the build? 💰 wise

@croberto9096 7 жыл бұрын

Ken, what was your reasoning for putting it towards the back, rather than front? Good job, keep posting your progress!

@AXODude69 6 жыл бұрын

Hey ken, Does this van have a reverse switch and can it not be used with a remote? Does it come with a remote?

@stevedavis8084 6 жыл бұрын

Great job and I will be doing this soon on my 144. Question, how far back on the roof can you install the fan? I have factory roof AC and would like to also have enough room for a solar panel located between the Maxxair and the rear edge of the factory AC shroud.

@stevedavis8084 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Could yours have been mounted further back, just in front of the rear-most seam? Only difference would appear to be the midline rib. Would your spacer allow the mount flange to deal with this rib?

@TheresaTower 6 жыл бұрын

I am so excited you have video taped this for us! *** How can I get ahold of those beautiful Aluminum strips you included? Would you consider sending me a set?

@DeVineVault 5 жыл бұрын

Hello 👋🏽 did you ever find aluminum strips? What did you end up doing?

@derekude8548 4 жыл бұрын

I followed this video and bought my own strips from Home Depot. 2 1x36 1/8 thick aluminum strips and then cut them to size and cut the corner to smooth them out a little. Not quite as pretty as his but they do the job and they’re going to be covered in the dicor anyways.

@christh5682 3 жыл бұрын

Hello "Ourkaravan", Thank you bc for this superb tutorial. You do things with care! Have a sanding sprinter for sprayed cork. I plan to put the MaxxAir on the front, at the place of the convex circle. What do you think ? Why did you put it on the back. For my part, would have another classic lantern backwards. To read you. Good continuation (de France)

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

Hi, the middle portion of the van is a common place for a fan as well. I chose to put mine in the rear to be closer to my bed. That way on warm nights I can have air moving over me. Totally a personal choice though.

@nickwhitbread4010 7 жыл бұрын

I'm guessing you din't use the factory screws to attach the mounting bracket to the roof because you added the gasket ?

@FBall-im8ui 6 жыл бұрын

Sorry I may not have seen th model in th video, Kenetube can you or anyone else let me know what model you installed please. Thank you, I was going to go with a fantastic fan but see that this sone is better , like you say, in th rain and i live in Victoria BC, LOTS of rain

@kenmarapese9085 6 жыл бұрын

Nice work, I don't think it would leak if a fire hose were directed at it!

@davenicholson9003 3 жыл бұрын

Good job...tidy work...!

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@brandonstieg4176 6 жыл бұрын

Hi Kenetube, Great and very helpful video again here. Helped me with my install today of the max air fan and a side window. Thanks to you these were a success. Question, have you dealt with the upper formed foam features behind the driver and passenger seats? Ive had difficulty obtaining info on the removal of these and what they are for. Im assuming you've dealt with these at this point? Im looking to remove or partially remove for access and interior siding. At the moment I need access for the last anchor for roof side track rail anchor. Any intel would be much appreciated. It seems we have the same vehicle so thought Id check with you. Thansk for all the great vids.. looking forward to the upper cabinet vid should you decide to post that. Best , Brandon (2017 4x4 144 wheelbase high roof UNDER CONSTRUCTION :)

@devonblaine 7 жыл бұрын

Great video! Are there benefits this model has over the manual one? Do I need to buy this shroud separately? I love your music choice.

@devonblaine 7 жыл бұрын

+kenetube yes! the reversable fan direction is what I want. Another youtuber mentioned being able to drive with the maxxair open. Does that depend on the way it's installed?

@devonblaine 7 жыл бұрын

Cool. Thanks :)

@charles9glenn 6 жыл бұрын

I am interested in the way you built your Sprinter van. Is there a way I can contact you? I just bought same Unit and I liked the way you did yours. Thanks.

@Yak00b 6 жыл бұрын

Great video; do you think the vent adapter is really necessary if mounting the vent towards the front? It looks like the bumps kind of line up perfectly for a flat vent install?

@Yak00b 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the insight!

@AXODude69 6 жыл бұрын

Ken where do I purchase the spacer for the fan?

@simonousiainen7116 2 жыл бұрын

Great video thanks! I just finished installing own maxxair some hours ago. Watched your video before ofc! May i ask now that you have used this for years how is it at winter / cold climate times? Does it freeze the whole van even if its off.

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

I live in a temperate climate so I’ve never noticed significant air leakage when it’s off, however you can use an insulated cover to help with that. I use insulated shades from Quest Overland. Coupon code Karavan5 will get you 5% off.

@simonousiainen7116 2 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan thanks for the tip ill check that out

@josephlee0923 5 жыл бұрын

Hi, i am trying to purchase this set up using the links provided, but for the sprinter roof adapter, when it directs you to ebay, which product type do you choose?

@chulkim8542 4 ай бұрын

Hi. Enjoyed video very much. I'm about to cut my first hole for Maxxfan install. DIYvan recommends Sikaflex 221 to bond expanded PVC adapter to the roof but 3M 4200FC was used instead. What was the reason? Is it because Sikaflex 221 was for interior? Are you satisfied with the adapter?

@ourkaravan 3 ай бұрын

Back in 2016 when I installed the van the company that made the adapter recommended 3M 4200, which has held up great the past 7 years. I do believe they now recommend the Sika, but either will work.

@tontonn9995 6 жыл бұрын

Ken - Excellent video ! I want to do the same thing but I'm confused. You seem to screw down the adapter to the roof in the four corner holes (only) with screws at the 4:50 mark and then again it seems like you are permanently screwing down the fan at 5:55 in the same holes as well as the other holes. I see the adapter screws have not been removed at the 5:42 mark. Can you clarify why you only used four screws for the adapter plate (to hold it tight and to line up the holes?) and then how you used all the fan mounting holes without removing the first four adapter screws.... confused.

@tontonn9995 6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kenetube!

@questioner1596 2 жыл бұрын

@ourkaravan, all of Kennetube's comments have been removed. Am I right to assume you did remove the 4 screws?

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

Hi, correct, the 4 corner screws were only to align the adapter while the adhesive was setting. Once dry I removed those four screws and screwed the fan down using all the screws.

@PictureMeFree 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your awesome videos! I’m going to use a lot of your affiliate links! I gather from your videos that, when drilling the self tapping screws, it’s unnecessary to paint the metal where they penetrate but it is necessary to paint cut exposed metal- is this correct? Thanks in advance!

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

That's my thinking as well--sheetmetal screws will likely remove any paint you add, and the lap sealant is protecting the area from the elements. You definitely want to paint the hole for the fan and any areas you cut for windows. We sure appreciate the support...it definitely helps!

@leblancexplores 2 жыл бұрын

I think instead of lap sealant I’m just going to put strips of RV roof sealant tape strategically layered so things look tidy. Thanks for sharing!

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

Should be fine. The lap sealant is far from neat but I only see it a few times a year when cleaning 9-1/2 feet up.

@mzimmerman12 7 жыл бұрын

Any reason you chose the max air fan versus the fantastic fan? Will you be intalling an interior ceiling in the near future? Will that be an easy task now that the screws have all the goop over them?

@indigomilkcap3514 6 жыл бұрын

Hi Ken, I'm curious about how the trim ring on the inside worked out for you. Do you have any pictures you can share about this part of the install? Thanks!

@JohnAvantiBK 4 жыл бұрын

Great job

@ourkaravan 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you!!

@ianf8005 4 жыл бұрын

I'm about to install a maxxair fan. I'm wondering about the screws. Which ones did you use? It looks like you simply screwed into the sheet metal with no nut or any kind of backing. I'd be concerned that over time there could be stress on that screw/metal connection. Any thoughts on that? I was thinking that at the very least bolt/nut/washer should be the minimum or if using a screw, to screw into a wood frame or something like that...

@ourkaravan 4 жыл бұрын

Correct, many use sixteen screws into the sheetmetal. The problem with bolting through with a nut is someday when the fan goes out you may not be able to remove the entire assembly from the roof without dropping your headliner. Some people nail their headliner in place, which obviously would create a huge problem. I used #8 1-1/4 sheetmetal screws due to the added thickness of the plastic spacer.

@miraflores5901 7 жыл бұрын

Did you make or purchase the strips of aluminum? If you purchased it, can you please provide links?

@peterdods425 4 жыл бұрын

From the guy who makes that plastic piece for the roof: Hello Peter, The strips are not needed. Some folks over-tighten the screws which squeezes out the butyl tape and depresses the vent flange around the screw head. Just do not to over-tighten the screws. Just snug to the flange is enough. The screws are only holding the vent against our adapter. Adding some fender washers under the screws can also be done if you want. If you overtighten then you aew squeezing out the butyl sealant tape. We sell hundreds of our patent pending adapters and only a few people use the strips. We don't hear of any cracked flanges. It's an internet created fear

@print4apet207 6 жыл бұрын

Great install, minus the using of self taping screws, why not use stainless with nyloc's ??? Has the fan been what you wanted ? I am shopping for one soon, so thought I'd see if 9 months later or so you still digging this brand as there are so many out there !

@print4apet207 6 жыл бұрын

Ahh yeah I am leaving the beams open and painting them to look like open beams inside a house instead of adding a drop ceiling, so now I see why ya used them tapers.. I think I will prob do this same fan, so thanks!

@landingentry3180 4 жыл бұрын

Does that adapter fit on the 2019 sprinters? I’m reading it only fits model year 94-06? Just purchased the fan and need to find the correct adapter. Thanks for the video!!

@ourkaravan 4 жыл бұрын

The 2007-2018 and 2019+ vans are basically the same so yes it will work, but the pre-07 is an entirely different generation. There should be a checkbox that allows you to select the generation of the van. Good luck!

@mehoshcommercialphotograph1877 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ken, Me again. Wondering why you didn't just move the opening a bit forward to avoid the ridge in the middle? On my new Sprinter it seems like there is room to do that before hitting the strut.

@mehoshcommercialphotograph1877 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ken. I was able to move the opening forward just enough to avoid the middle rib without it hitting the ceiling strut. This was important to me because I ordered a rack from Aluminus which had a standard opening and I wanted the fan to be perfectly centered in that opening. The fan housing still overlaps the ridges on each side ever so slightly, but I figure a few layers of butyl tape should compensate for that. I made a frame that goes on the inside of the roof to give more support to the housing when screwed into. Here's where I got the idea: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/n69jodhn1s6nYZs.html If I put a aluminum frame over the top of the housing as you did, that would make it even more ridged!

@brownjh91 2 жыл бұрын

Did you use the included screws or have to procure longer ones? (curious since you added butyl tape and aluminum strips). After a few years of use, anything you'd change about the install? Thanks!

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

I did use longer versions of the same screws. It’s been too many years now to remember the size I used but consider the added thickness of the roof adapter, butyl and the strips. I have a video coming out later this month talking about how things have held up the past five years. The fan and install has held up great and I’d do it the same today.

@brownjh91 2 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan Awesome, thanks for the reply! Looking forward to the update video.

@colleenmendoza1344 5 жыл бұрын

Again love the music

@ourkaravan 5 жыл бұрын

I appreciate the feedback, thank you!

@robertw1524 5 жыл бұрын

Hi Ken, could you please give me some information about the removal of the factory headliner ?

@robertw1524 5 жыл бұрын

Ken you are the best ! Thank you for taking the time to relay this information so quickly. I am also wondering what you think about attaching the thinsulate to the headliner instead of the sheet metal ?

@alextran8585 Жыл бұрын

do you have a link for suggested screws?

@brianchetelat6601 2 жыл бұрын

Hello Ken, I'm getting close to doing this install for the first time on my new Transit. Is there anything you'd do differently from the installation in this video? I really like your idea of making those aluminum rails for sturdy reinforcement of the fan bracket. Could give me the dimensions of those so I can replicate? I was also thinking about the nice RV Repair tape instead of using Lap Sealant, thoughts on that? Thank you again for this and all of the other really helpful videos. You're a step above most of the folks I've been following.

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Brian, I recently did a 5 year update video talking about how everything is holding up. No problems or issues with the fan install and would do it the same today. I dont have dimensions for the aluminum strips, just cut to length and screw them down. I haven’t tried the repair tape, I stick with what I know works. Good luck on the install!

@brianchetelat6601 2 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan I just picked up some 1" x 1/8" thick 6063 Aluminum Bar Stock and it looks like it will work perfectly. Thank you again for that idea and You are the only one I've seen doing that. I usually recognize a good idea when I see it and you had one there : ) Thank you again for sharing and for the many ideas you've brought to light for the folks following in your footsteps. Happy Easter to you and yours.

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you, and you as well!

@JJ_Khailha 3 жыл бұрын

The screws don’t attach to anything below the skin of the van? I used a wooden frame below the roof to screw into.

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

Correct. Some day when my fan goes out I want to be able to replace the entire fan unit rom the roof without dropping my headliner. Sixteen sheetmetal screws are plenty to hold the fan in place.

@roytomlinson9132 2 жыл бұрын

And your happy with that sealant on the outside?did you put it on with a spade?

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

5 years now and not a single issue. Dicor is not the prettiest stuff to look at but who sees it?

@boli2016 2 жыл бұрын

Isn't it going to be hard to do your roofing later, esp since you didn't have the height of the inner part set for it?

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

No because you cut the adapter down to the thickness of your roof once it’s in place. I did a video on the ceiling as well.

@femacampetiquettefordummie9243 5 жыл бұрын

Does the Sprinter have a designated fan location towards the front of the van? If someone decides to install the fan in this forward location, the adapter would not be needed, right?

@ourkaravan 5 жыл бұрын

There is a factory location toward the front, but the factory fans are not the standard 14" size, they are much smaller. As such, the adapter is still needed to address the ribs in the roof.

@stickydh 3 жыл бұрын

Love the music

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks!

@higbeedoug 2 жыл бұрын

...and 5 years later, how is all holding up? I also noticed you didn't use any tape in the first adhesive step. Why was that? Regarding filing, there is only one direction for proper use of a metal file. Pulling it only dulls it as the 'cut' is only in that one forward direction. BTW, how many builds b4 this one?

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

I actually just released a 5 yr update video on the entire build. I didn’t use butyl tape on the bottom side of the adapter plate because the manufacturer of the plate recommended use of 3M adhesive there. Thanks for the filing tips.

@admirzubcevic9688 2 жыл бұрын

Where did you buy that roof adapter and Bytul tape 😀

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

Hi, I have an article with all the products listed here: ourkaravan.com/ventfan/

@joeshmoe8952 3 жыл бұрын

I read somewhere that you need two of these maxxair fans for your cargo van, is that true or would one be ok?

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

Most only have one. Using two would prevent me from having the amount of solar I do, so one is definitely my preference.

@joeshmoe8952 3 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan I got a sprinter 170 so I'm trying to add 1 fan and a roof nest. I just need to figure out if it's possible, I think it is.

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

I’m not sure what a roof nest is but you certainly have more room on the roof of your 170 than I have on my 144.

@_marcus_does_ 4 жыл бұрын

What reinforcements has you made to the underside?

@ourkaravan 4 жыл бұрын

None. If you build a frame and use nuts underneath you may not be able to remove the fan from the top if/when it goes out. In my case my headliner would make it difficult to access from the bottom.

@jtouneh 5 жыл бұрын

I am curious if having 2 fans provide better airflow and more cooler than just having 1 fan?

@ourkaravan 5 жыл бұрын

It would. I've heard from others that running one fan in forward and the other in reverse creates a nice draft. It does limit your solar capacity though.

@jonwebb5241 5 жыл бұрын

Great music!

@ourkaravan 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks!!!

@TheMomentEnds1 6 жыл бұрын

I like your attention to detail and using the proper tools (step drill, jigsaw, clamps, etc...) Couple of comments to the work performed @ 5:40. 1. Those aluminum strips you made could have been made as 1) piece cut from flat aluminum. 2. Could have drilled and countersunk for flat head screws, instead of the truss head used 3. Screws do not appear to be stainless 4. The aluminum itself was only "mill finish" and sealant does not adhere well to unfinished aluminum. 5. Surprised you did not tape off and tool the sealant you applied. Just contributing, not criticizing, thanks for the great vid.

@terrellfiveo 7 жыл бұрын

Can you please tell me where you bought that adapter?

@terrellfiveo 7 жыл бұрын

Thanks

@amora99121 6 жыл бұрын

where did he buy that adapter for the fan?

@bobwojcik6196 5 жыл бұрын

How has the Maxxair fan been working for you? I've read about problems they have and wonder if you've experienced any

@bobwojcik6196 5 жыл бұрын

kenetube According to the Amazon reviews the circuit boards go bad and the fan stops working. They also said that if you buy the fan through Amazon there is no warranty.

@ernestns 4 жыл бұрын

I bought my adapter from eBay, though mine is for a Transit, I recall seeing other models as well from various builders.

@skooliebuilders 3 жыл бұрын

What size wire did you use to connect your fan to your breaker??

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

I believe I used awg 14 to prevent voltage drop.

@skooliebuilders 3 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan 14 gauge is what I was thinking as well. It comes with 16 gauge but it just didn’t make sense to me to try and run 16 gauge with it. However there’s 1 million videos on Airmax fan installations but nobody says the gauge they used for the electrical LOL

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

Awg 14 is rated for much higher amperage but I tried to limit my DC wire gauges to two sizes, 14 and 16, and the heavier gauge helps reduce voltage drop. Naturally my main DV wiring is much thicker gauge but nearly all of my after-fuse block loads are 14 or 16.

@skooliebuilders 3 жыл бұрын

That’s solid! I’ve build houses for years and I’m on my 2nd skoolie. So it’s different for sure lol 16g is foreign to me as 14 is the smallest residential LOL quick question for you.. On switches what is your opinion on 14g on the pucks to the switch and 12g from the switch to the breaker and using a 15a fuse?

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

@@skooliebuilders I recommend using this online tool: circuitwizard.bluesea.com. Without knowing how many lights, their consumption, etc I wouldn't be able to say. This will though! -Ken

@madusan1 6 жыл бұрын

You should make a chronological playlist to help your viewers watch your videos on this project. Side Benefit is you view count goes up.....

@tedtapfer5933 2 жыл бұрын

Great series of videos... Thank you so much!! Curious, now that you've had your fan installed for over four years, any thoughts on those aluminum stripes you fabricated for the rim of the fan? Seems like they would be attract and absorb a ton of (sun) heat and get/stay hot.. maybe tougher on the plastic then just leaving it exposed (w/out alum. stripes)?? Would be interested in your thoughts/feedback. Thanks!

@tedtapfer5933 2 жыл бұрын

errrr strips...

@ourkaravan 2 жыл бұрын

I'd do it again the same way today. I removed the *inside* fan trim cover last week to install magnets on the inside for my new vent cover and the white plastic is getting brittle from sun. If it's that brittle inside the van, I can't imagine what condition the outside plastic frame would be in if it were not covered. I feel the strips keep even pressure and help keep UV off the plastic.

@SFSFIRE 3 жыл бұрын

is the black ring supposed to be on inside of van?

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

The purpose of the black ring is to flatten the ribs on top of the roof so the fan will sit flat.

@SFSFIRE 3 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan i watched the install video on adventure wagon & mammoth vans. everyone is using the black ring on the inside. using the thin sheet metal vanskin to hold the fan in and having those self tap screws exposed like that is wrong. i've done way worse on other stuff. i love ur videos and have gotten some great ideas for my van build. i'll be using the same fans but def putting black ring inside. instagram.com/p/B-QdpSRJZtp/

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

You must be referring to a different trim ring. The ring I used is 100% only for the roof. I appreciate the kind words...take care!

@emmcey 3 жыл бұрын

@@ourkaravan They make an interior ring as well, I’m guessing you did'nt get it. Did you make your own interior ring out of wood or not use an interior ring altogether?

@ourkaravan 3 жыл бұрын

@@emmcey Correct, I only used the one for the top of the roof. Before using an interior ring with nuts underneath, be sure the design of your headliner will allow access to the nuts underneath. Otherwise if the fan goes out you'll have to rip out your headliner to replace it. If you use the 16 sheetmetal screws down through the adapter and into the roof, you can remove the entire fan from the roof of the van when it does eventually go out.