Clean It Up

UK Window Cleaning Forum => Window Cleaning Forum => Topic started by: jo5hm4n on October 16, 2018, 06:17:21 pm

Title: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jo5hm4n on October 16, 2018, 06:17:21 pm
Doing my first DIY Van System hopefully soon for a second van.

I'm absolutely hopeless at DIY seriously.  I will give it my best shot and not after anything fancy just something simple, tidy that does the job.

Anybody willing to send me some photos via email of their DIY Systems for me to have some idea of what looks good and works well.  Looking for inspiration.

Thanks guys.

info@quantumshine.co.uk
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: robbo333 on October 16, 2018, 06:26:13 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539710732_van.jpg)

Here's mine.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Smudger on October 16, 2018, 06:58:23 pm
That’s neat - just a note my early setups were wood after a couple of years they suffered really badly from rot and damp - where possible go for steel ( one of my lads is a great welder which makes it a breeze ) we have been putting in a system today so I’ll get some pics for you

Darran
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Jon_Phelps on October 16, 2018, 07:14:55 pm
This is my DIY System.  I bought from various parts over the years (as and when needed) and finished with this.  I always used to strap the tank down but now its all bolted and secure.  much neater that way too!

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539713558_IMG_6456.JPG)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: nathankaye on October 16, 2018, 07:34:54 pm
Warning, video time  😱😎
😴

https://youtu.be/_qnqr0GYOXk

Completed look (only 25 seconds lol)
https://youtu.be/EYDx0mi7omg
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: paul alan on October 16, 2018, 08:14:07 pm
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kp0aBbLewig

If you don't have electric reels already mate, get some. It makes a big difference to your day.


The immersion is a lifesaver in the winter, I don't use it other times of the year but in winter it's awesome.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: paul alan on October 16, 2018, 08:24:22 pm
I'll be around mate if you need a hand with owt. I can also put you onto the guy who bolted my tank in and fabricated the hose guides.

He'll make you a frame if you like and save you a good few quid.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: paul alan on October 16, 2018, 08:26:06 pm
This is my DIY System.  I bought from various parts over the years (as and when needed) and finished with this.  I always used to strap the tank down but now its all bolted and secure.  much neater that way too!

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539713558_IMG_6456.JPG)

Nice
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 17, 2018, 04:28:05 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539789861_Screenshot_20181017-162210_Gallery.jpg)

Pure freedom cage,500L tank and electric reel...retro fit grippatank hydroheat,extreme 25 and 47....black soil pipes from b and q for pole holders....door cards/brush holders from grippatank too....

to the left of my reel is a socket set and behind that a black bin for dirty cloths then trad gear,chemicals,bucket with a lid,folding step and on top of the tank more cloths,scrapers,spare t mops/rubbers etc(all easy accessible from the side van door)....

to the right is my toolbox with spare connectors,PTFE spray etc and behind that my 2 x 105 numax leisure batteries....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 17, 2018, 04:35:46 pm
my electric reel is just screwed into a piece of black plastic covered plywood that fits snugly in front of the heater.... :)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 18, 2018, 08:05:25 am
Yours isn't totally DIY is it Daz????
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: John Mart on October 18, 2018, 08:21:34 am
Yours isn't totally DIY is it Daz????
I thought that.  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jo5hm4n on October 18, 2018, 11:55:26 am
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539710732_van.jpg)

Here's mine.

That look's good can i see a photo from side of van with tank in view?
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jo5hm4n on October 18, 2018, 11:56:02 am
Warning, video time  😱😎
😴

https://youtu.be/_qnqr0GYOXk

Completed look (only 25 seconds lol)
https://youtu.be/EYDx0mi7omg

Good video Nathan, helpful!  I like your experimenting
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jo5hm4n on October 18, 2018, 11:57:12 am
I'll be around mate if you need a hand with owt. I can also put you onto the guy who bolted my tank in and fabricated the hose guides.

He'll make you a frame if you like and save you a good few quid.

Cheers mate, good video your setup is so neat and tidy!  Thanks i'll let you know if i need your guys details.  Appreciate any help aswell if i get stuck with anything means alot.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jo5hm4n on October 18, 2018, 11:57:45 am
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539789861_Screenshot_20181017-162210_Gallery.jpg)

Pure freedom cage,500L tank and electric reel...retro fit grippatank hydroheat,extreme 25 and 47....black soil pipes from b and q for pole holders....door cards/brush holders from grippatank too....

to the left of my reel is a socket set and behind that a black bin for dirty cloths then trad gear,chemicals,bucket with a lid,folding step and on top of the tank more cloths,scrapers,spare t mops/rubbers etc(all easy accessible from the side van door)....

to the right is my toolbox with spare connectors,PTFE spray etc and behind that my 2 x 105 numax leisure batteries....

Nice setup Daz, did grippa tank fit that for you, or did you just buy all the parts and do it yourself.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 03:49:01 pm
Yours isn't totally DIY is it Daz????

so what?the guy wants some inspiration! ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 03:55:48 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539789861_Screenshot_20181017-162210_Gallery.jpg)

Pure freedom cage,500L tank and electric reel...retro fit grippatank hydroheat,extreme 25 and 47....black soil pipes from b and q for pole holders....door cards/brush holders from grippatank too....

to the left of my reel is a socket set and behind that a black bin for dirty cloths then trad gear,chemicals,bucket with a lid,folding step and on top of the tank more cloths,scrapers,spare t mops/rubbers etc(all easy accessible from the side van door)....

to the right is my toolbox with spare connectors,PTFE spray etc and behind that my 2 x 105 numax leisure batteries....

Nice setup Daz, did grippa tank fit that for you, or did you just buy all the parts and do it yourself.

got my local garage to fit the tank and frame(bolted through the eyelets with pieces of angle iron,no drilling through the van floor!)and grippatank to fit the diesel heater,pump,controller,batteries and b to b charger.....i did fix in place and wire up my electric reel and install the pole holders so their is a small bit of DIY.... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

...oh and i fitted the door cards and brush/gooseneck holders on the inside of the van back doors..... 8)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 18, 2018, 04:04:28 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539789861_Screenshot_20181017-162210_Gallery.jpg)

Pure freedom cage,500L tank and electric reel...retro fit grippatank hydroheat,extreme 25 and 47....black soil pipes from b and q for pole holders....door cards/brush holders from grippatank too....

to the left of my reel is a socket set and behind that a black bin for dirty cloths then trad gear,chemicals,bucket with a lid,folding step and on top of the tank more cloths,scrapers,spare t mops/rubbers etc(all easy accessible from the side van door)....

to the right is my toolbox with spare connectors,PTFE spray etc and behind that my 2 x 105 numax leisure batteries....

Nice setup Daz, did grippa tank fit that for you, or did you just buy all the parts and do it yourself.

got my local garage to fit the tank and frame(bolted through the eyelets with pieces of angle iron,no drilling through the van floor!)and grippatank to fit the diesel heater,pump,controller,batteries and b to b charger.....i did fix in place and wire up my electric reel and install the pole holders so their is a small bit of DIY.... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

...oh and i fitted the door cards and brush/gooseneck holders on the inside of the van back doors..... 8)

This would be a good system for you Josh, as long as you don't mind spending about £6000.00 on the interior of your van, it might even be more than that😮😮😮😮
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Smudger on October 18, 2018, 05:33:50 pm
Not quite finished but you get the idea -

Protector coat floor - 1000 litre tank fully baffled - steel frame and stainless steel shelf

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539880159_DB9210D0-354C-4CD8-9380-2083515256D7.jpeg)

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539880182_71FD8C6C-99F8-4CC1-B3F0-85B110F61593.jpeg)

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539880217_5E76193C-76B7-4BA5-8CF1-2270D30E75AB.jpeg)

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539880241_F27820EE-8C8F-4D64-A201-C4514F09EFF3.jpeg)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 18, 2018, 05:55:59 pm
Now that's what I call a proper DIY system.
wouldn't cost the earth either, which I presume is one of the great benefits of DIY
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 07:51:11 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539789861_Screenshot_20181017-162210_Gallery.jpg)

Pure freedom cage,500L tank and electric reel...retro fit grippatank hydroheat,extreme 25 and 47....black soil pipes from b and q for pole holders....door cards/brush holders from grippatank too....

to the left of my reel is a socket set and behind that a black bin for dirty cloths then trad gear,chemicals,bucket with a lid,folding step and on top of the tank more cloths,scrapers,spare t mops/rubbers etc(all easy accessible from the side van door)....

to the right is my toolbox with spare connectors,PTFE spray etc and behind that my 2 x 105 numax leisure batteries....

Nice setup Daz, did grippa tank fit that for you, or did you just buy all the parts and do it yourself.

got my local garage to fit the tank and frame(bolted through the eyelets with pieces of angle iron,no drilling through the van floor!)and grippatank to fit the diesel heater,pump,controller,batteries and b to b charger.....i did fix in place and wire up my electric reel and install the pole holders so their is a small bit of DIY.... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

...oh and i fitted the door cards and brush/gooseneck holders on the inside of the van back doors..... 8)

This would be a good system for you Josh, as long as you don't mind spending about £6000.00 on the interior of your van, it might even be more than that😮😮😮😮

just under 6k(not including poles).... ;)...£7.5k including poles...well worth the money to me.... :)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 07:55:20 pm
ill see if i can upload some of my other set ups from years ago that were fully DIY..... :)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:19:31 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539890358_Screenshot_20181018-201748_Photos.jpg)

old connect,cold water system....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:20:22 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539890418_Screenshot_20181018-200154_Photos.jpg)

old connect DIY hot water system........ ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:22:12 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539890527_Screenshot_20181018-200930_Photos.jpg)

this was my old kangoo van!what a mess! ::)roll ;D

DIY hot water system 350L tank......
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:30:58 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539891054_Screenshot_20181018-201550_Photos.jpg)

kitting out the old connect.....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:31:45 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539891099_Screenshot_20181018-201508_Photos.jpg)

trad gear within easy reach.......
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:34:18 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539891254_Screenshot_20181018-195726_Photos.jpg)

new connect DIY cold water system,new tank frame from pure freedom and manual cox reel....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:49:39 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539892097_Screenshot_20181018-204645_Photos.jpg)
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539892113_Screenshot_20181018-204707_Photos.jpg)

Kitting out the old connect with a DIY hot system....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 08:59:47 pm
as you can see my system has evolved over the years to what it is today...i wish i still had old pics of my first set up with 10 barrels,a 50L trolley system and an orange fiberglass pole!but i cant find them!maybe theyll be in my old posts from 2010... ;D

i have the best set up now (for me) for burning through my workload very efficiently and fast with minimum hassle and strain..... :)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 18, 2018, 09:13:59 pm
 ;D ;D ;D ;D
Stop it Daz , im itching to visit my old photo files now , reckon i have changed my mind more than you over the years .
But then i probably havent or have i , im not sure now  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 18, 2018, 09:26:47 pm
Trad man with a 175 L cold in the back , topped off with a bright green 24 foot GF Universal  :o

Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 18, 2018, 09:39:10 pm
Fiorino with a 350 Diy hot

 
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 18, 2018, 09:42:38 pm
98 Combo with all but the kitchen sink

 
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 09:47:47 pm
Trad man with a 175 L cold in the back , topped off with a bright green 24 foot GF Universal  :o

them ladders are hilarious!! :D :D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 18, 2018, 09:55:13 pm
Fiorino 250 cold



Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 18, 2018, 09:59:30 pm
Trad man with a 175 L cold in the back , topped off with a bright green 24 foot GF Universal  :o

them ladders are hilarious!! :D :D ;D ;D ;D

So FREEKIN long they used to get to the job 20 minutes before me  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Spruce on October 18, 2018, 10:21:17 pm
Trad man with a 175 L cold in the back , topped off with a bright green 24 foot GF Universal  :o

them ladders are hilarious!! :D :D ;D ;D ;D

So FREEKIN long they used to get to the job 20 minutes before me  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

 ;D ;D ;D

Notice you forgot a photo of the pink van and trailer  ;D

Who was the guy on the west coast (Bristol?) side of the country who towed a trailer kitted out with a system with an ATV? He then towed it with a Fiat 500. He just seemed to stop posting one day.

He also had a gas water heater and also had a gas cooker so he could cook his breakfast and make a cup of coffee whilst working.

.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 18, 2018, 10:41:12 pm
my round has evolved as well as my set ups and vans over the last 8 and a half years since i switched to WFP. its become a lot more profitable and i work shorter hours than i used too....

ive always wanted a new van and a  professionally fitted diesel hot water system but could never afford them before hence the older vans and DIY systems.....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 19, 2018, 01:02:04 am







[/quote]

 ;D ;D ;D

Notice you forgot a photo of the pink van and trailer  ;D

Who was the guy on the west coast (Bristol?) side of the country who towed a trailer kitted out with a system with an ATV? He then towed it with a Fiat 500. He just seemed to stop posting one day.

He also had a gas water heater and also had a gas cooker so he could cook his breakfast and make a cup of coffee whilst working.

.
[/quote]

Dont know what you're on about ?
 
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 19, 2018, 07:26:51 am
ill see if i can upload some of my other set ups from years ago that were fully DIY..... :)

Thanks Daz, you've had a few tidy DIY setups in your time😁😁😁😁
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 19, 2018, 07:34:38 am
Sorry to have hit a raw nerve and  caused this posting frenzy Daz, probably given Josh a few ideas though.

Just wondering if you've got any gift vouchers available for a tour or your 'Gardiners Brush Evolution Exhibition' that you started in about 2009 ;D
Must be bigger than the British Museum 😜😜😜
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 19, 2018, 07:42:52 am
Sorry to have hit a raw nerve and  caused this posting frenzy Daz, probably given Josh a few ideas though.

Just wondering if you've got any gift vouchers available for a tour or your 'Gardiners Brush Evolution Exhibition' that you started in about 2009 ;D
Must be bigger than the British Museum 😜😜😜

most of them ive binned now....a lot were sent to me for free to trial out....i only stick to extreme and ultimate brushes now even though they dont last very long....every other brush seems too heavy on the end of xtreme poles.....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Pete Thompson on October 19, 2018, 09:59:18 am
This thread, and some of the pictures here, would convince me that DIY is definitely NOT the thing to do.  What a shabby mess.

eg that pic with the 1,000 Litre IBC sitting in the back.

DEATH TRAP

That is all.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 19, 2018, 10:35:15 am
Shabby mess or not. As long as its safe that's all that matters. Anything else is just glitter........
........ The only people who are going to be impressed by a fancy  pro system are other window cleaners.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 19, 2018, 12:41:16 pm
Shabby mess or not. As long as its safe that's all that matters. Anything else is just glitter........
........ The only people who are going to be impressed by a fancy  pro system are other window cleaners.


Agreed
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 19, 2018, 02:15:53 pm
This thread, and some of the pictures here, would convince me that DIY is definitely NOT the thing to do.  What a shabby mess.

eg that pic with the 1,000 Litre IBC sitting in the back.

DEATH TRAP

That is all.
[/quote


Here we go again 🤮
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Smudger on October 19, 2018, 02:29:37 pm
This thread, and some of the pictures here, would convince me that DIY is definitely NOT the thing to do.  What a shabby mess.

eg that pic with the 1,000 Litre IBC sitting in the back.

DEATH TRAP

That is all.
[/quote


Here we go again 🤮

Everyone can have their opinion, some want to spend thousands on a “professional “ system, which in effect is just parts sourced off the net - just like we do - they just charge for the privilege

Darran
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: alank on October 19, 2018, 02:53:23 pm
Nothing wrong with diy you get the system the way you want to suit how you work ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 19, 2018, 03:56:35 pm
This thread, and some of the pictures here, would convince me that DIY is definitely NOT the thing to do.  What a shabby mess.

eg that pic with the 1,000 Litre IBC sitting in the back.

DEATH TRAP

That is all.

ive seen worse than that!A pressure washing guy i met once had a 1000L IBC on a wooden pallet in the back of his fancy VW transporter strapped down by the flimsiest bits of string tied to the eyelets on his van floor.... ::)roll ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 19, 2018, 03:58:48 pm
Shabby mess or not. As long as its safe that's all that matters. Anything else is just glitter........
........ The only people who are going to be impressed by a fancy  pro system are other window cleaners.

its nothing to do with impressing other window cleaners...its just generally less hassle with a pro system esp if you want hot water on tap every day and frost protection......
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 19, 2018, 06:15:42 pm
Shabby mess or not. As long as its safe that's all that matters. Anything else is just glitter........
........ The only people who are going to be impressed by a fancy  pro system are other window cleaners.

its nothing to do with impressing other window cleaners...its just generally less hassle with a pro system esp if you want hot water on tap every day and frost protection......
No. You've missed my point.  Nobody cares what the inside of your van looks like ( apart from yourself ) certainly your customers  do not and if anybody was to go  " woooo that's a really smart set up ! " they would be other window cleaners or ciu forum members. I'm not having a dig at people who want  a pro fitted job, I'm disagreeing with  diy looking shabby. If its safe and it works, then it doesn't matter.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 19, 2018, 06:24:26 pm
Shabby mess or not. As long as its safe that's all that matters. Anything else is just glitter........
........ The only people who are going to be impressed by a fancy  pro system are other window cleaners.

its nothing to do with impressing other window cleaners...its just generally less hassle with a pro system esp if you want hot water on tap every day and frost protection......
No. You've missed my point.  Nobody cares what the inside of your van looks like ( apart from yourself ) certainly your customers  do not and if anybody was to go  " woooo that's a really smart set up ! " they would be other window cleaners or ciu forum members. I'm not having a dig at people who want  a pro fitted job, I'm disagreeing with  diy looking shabby. If its safe and it works, then it doesn't matter.

ironically enough most people that have seen my set up and liked it have NOT been window cleaners but customers! ;D ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 19, 2018, 06:31:47 pm
My customers don't come out to my van to have a nose  and have never shown any interest, nor would I want them to  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Smudger on October 19, 2018, 07:27:26 pm
Daz yours is a hybrid system half diy and half “professional “ ie the heater was bolted in by grippa tank the rest by you

I only time customers have looked in the back is to see the pressure washing setup - just because they are nosey f*****s any system that’s neat and tidy will impress, dirty, scruffy vans do not

Darran
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 19, 2018, 08:16:44 pm
Daz yours is a hybrid system half diy and half “professional “ ie the heater was bolted in by grippa tank the rest by you

I only time customers have looked in the back is to see the pressure washing setup - just because they are nosey f*****s any system that’s neat and tidy will impress, dirty, scruffy vans do not

Darran

Well said , thats it in a nut shell TBH ,
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 19, 2018, 08:43:41 pm
As Smudger says , its no real relevance what gear stowed does the magic , they dont care .
And to put some evidence to this I can tell you that all my setups have been DIY , at one point i had 2 sparkly vans with nice signage out there , work was flying in and i was doing well , then employee trouble reared its head and I went back to just me  , 1 van which I decided to paint pink  :o
Present custies didnt really care , but new custies became thin on the ground , I was probably seen as not so professional anymore , since then I have gone back to a nice white van with better signage and things have picked up again , not massively but enough to lose the dross and build a better base .
If I had the wedge to throw at Grippa or Xline I might well do , but it wouldnt get the glass any cleaner would it ??   
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 19, 2018, 10:50:10 pm
As Smudger says , its no real relevance what gear stowed does the magic , they dont care .
And to put some evidence to this I can tell you that all my setups have been DIY , at one point i had 2 sparkly vans with nice signage out there , work was flying in and i was doing well , then employee trouble reared its head and I went back to just me  , 1 van which I decided to paint pink  :o
Present custies didnt really care , but new custies became thin on the ground , I was probably seen as not so professional anymore , since then I have gone back to a nice white van with better signage and things have picked up again , not massively but enough to lose the dross and build a better base .
If I had the wedge to throw at Grippa or Xline I might well do , but it wouldnt get the glass any cleaner would it ??

a professional diesel hot water system gets glass/UPVC etc cleaner quicker with as least hassle as possible with frost prevention to boot for the cold winter months....

im not saying its not expensive and a little indulgent......but ive earned the right to a bit of luxury after 25 years of window cleaning!.....it was a 25th anniversary present to myself.. ;D

tbh i got sick of DIY and faffing about with older vans every couple of years....plus all the niggles i used to get,leaks,burst hoses,broken gas heaters,changing gas bottles,a little explosion! ::)roll etc,etc.....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 19, 2018, 10:56:58 pm
Daz yours is a hybrid system half diy and half “professional “ ie the heater was bolted in by grippa tank the rest by you

I only time customers have looked in the back is to see the pressure washing setup - just because they are nosey f*****s any system that’s neat and tidy will impress, dirty, scruffy vans do not

Darran

its virtually a full professional install mate.....heater,pump,controller,batteries,b to b  smart charger all wired in and fixed in by grippa..the only thing grippa  didnt do was bolt the tank in! ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 20, 2018, 09:14:27 am
The other big benefit of DIY  apart from a massive price difference is that they are easy to repair yourself and also save you the journey to Grimsby or wherever to have it repaired, thereby also losing working hours or days.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 20, 2018, 01:13:56 pm
The other big benefit of DIY  apart from a massive price difference is that they are easy to repair yourself and also save you the journey to Grimsby or wherever to have it repaired, thereby also losing working hours or days.
Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: nathankaye on October 20, 2018, 01:28:11 pm
I've also changed the layout of my van several times and documented/shown on my YouTube channel NKservices.
I got bored and changed the layout and then I gained more experience and wanted to change it to suit my needs n storage needs better.
I'm now finally happy with having as basic a setup as I can.   So it's a shelve across the wheel arches and hose reel on top and it also seats my trolley for when I need it and a plastic box which holds my chemicals etc.
Under the shelve are the batteries and pump. Hose pipe from tank to the pump, tightened extremely tight (due to hot water) and then a car radiator hose (due to hot water) from the pump to the hose reel. Again this is tightened to death. I got told not to use carpet tiles as it would smell like wet dog!  Nonsense as in two years I haven't sprung a leak and didn't intend on any once I changed to this layout as well. So provided you do a good and secure job, you won't have any problems unless you create any. That's the best thing about a DIY system, you design it with you and your way of working in mind
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jo5hm4n on October 20, 2018, 01:31:31 pm
The other big benefit of DIY  apart from a massive price difference is that they are easy to repair yourself and also save you the journey to Grimsby or wherever to have it repaired, thereby also losing working hours or days.

Jon, this is absolutely spot on why i wanted to have a DIY system.  I love my Purefreedom setup but if it stopped working i'd have no idea where to start and would lose a few days work going to Grimsby.  Second van DIY keeping it simple is what i want.  Nothing fancy!
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jo5hm4n on October 20, 2018, 01:34:57 pm

Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.

Good advice here, why keep pump low?  As in low to the ground?  If so, yes that makes sense.  I like the idea of finding faults keeping it simple.  Can you show some pics of your setup?  Not bothered if it doesn't look flashy, i just want basic and simple, i'm no good at DIY so for me i need to keep it as basic and straight forward as possible, certainly for my first DIY anyway.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 20, 2018, 01:52:11 pm
You can't get more simple than a pump box,tank and reel mate.....

U can buy a pumpbox off the shelf and just plug in and go to work.....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 20, 2018, 02:01:36 pm
You can't get more simple than a pump box,tank and reel mate.....

U can buy a pumpbox off the shelf and just plug in and go to work.....
That's not a bad idea. I still think they are a bit pricey when you add the sum of the parts but you can't beat the convenience of them.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 20, 2018, 02:11:01 pm

Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.

Good advice here, why keep pump low?  As in low to the ground?  If so, yes that makes sense.  I like the idea of finding faults keeping it simple.  Can you show some pics of your setup?  Not bothered if it doesn't look flashy, i just want basic and simple, i'm no good at DIY so for me i need to keep it as basic and straight forward as possible, certainly for my first DIY anyway.
Yeah just keep the pump as low down as possible. Its going to reduce any air lock issues when the water level gets low in your tank.  I've a few days off so am giving truck a bit of an overhaul. The wood my reel and pump etc. Is fitted to is going rotten after 3 years. Fitting out again with treated ply before winter but will post a pic when done. ;)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: alank on October 20, 2018, 03:06:11 pm
Done the same have just made a plywood tool tray to keep pump boxes di vessels etc in their  place I need to give it a coat of stain and line out the back with silver insulation I've put a 350ltr tank and immersion in  and two 115amp batteries and some led lights I've just changed over from the old pickup to a 64 plate l200  and used it as an opportunity to refine my set up I will put some pics up when i get it finished  ;D all fit is diy  ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 20, 2018, 03:36:58 pm
Done the same have just made a plywood tool tray to keep pump boxes di vessels etc in their  place I need to give it a coat of stain and line out the back with silver insulation I've put a 350ltr tank and immersion in  and two 115amp batteries and some led lights I've just changed over from the old pickup to a 64 plate l200  and used it as an opportunity to refine my set up I will put some pics up when i get it finished  ;D all fit is diy  ;D
Nice one. If I buy enough ply then think I'm going to do the same and build a slide out ply box to organise things better.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: alank on October 20, 2018, 03:58:31 pm
Just makes it so much neater I wish I did it ages ago ;D the easiest way I've found to have a ready made pump box is just remove the base from a backpack connect the free flow pipe to the tank and the pressure pipe to the hose reel and away you go it works ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: John Mart on October 20, 2018, 04:04:36 pm
The other big benefit of DIY  apart from a massive price difference is that they are easy to repair yourself and also save you the journey to Grimsby or wherever to have it repaired, thereby also losing working hours or days.
That's nonsense. I can't think of a single problem that can occur on a non powered hosereel system that I couldn't fix. And I am the most useless DIY bloke on Planet Earth. My wife changes the plugs at home.

To add, I did my own previously & in my opinion £2k on a fitted system from Pure Freedom is money well spent.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 20, 2018, 08:12:53 pm
The other big benefit of DIY  apart from a massive price difference is that they are easy to repair yourself and also save you the journey to Grimsby or wherever to have it repaired, thereby also losing working hours or days.
That's nonsense. I can't think of a single problem that can occur on a non powered hosereel system that I couldn't fix. And I am the most useless DIY bloke on Planet Earth. My wife changes the plugs at home.

To add, I did my own previously & in my opinion £2k on a fitted system from Pure Freedom is money well spent.

Each to their own then.
I have a 650 ltr system that cost me about £700 and it works well
Sooner spend the £1300 difference on a new hi fi.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 21, 2018, 12:38:30 am
The other big benefit of DIY  apart from a massive price difference is that they are easy to repair yourself and also save you the journey to Grimsby or wherever to have it repaired, thereby also losing working hours or days.
That's nonsense. I can't think of a single problem that can occur on a non powered hosereel system that I couldn't fix. And I am the most useless DIY bloke on Planet Earth. My wife changes the plugs at home.

To add, I did my own previously & in my opinion £2k on a fitted system from Pure Freedom is money well spent.

Each to their own then.
I have a 650 ltr system that cost me about £700 and it works well
Sooner spend the £1300 difference on a new hi fi.

Glad I don’t live next door to you then 😁
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 21, 2018, 08:34:27 am
I am a noisy git, specially when Smashing Pumpkins/Nirvana/Pearl Jam blasting out ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Slacky on October 21, 2018, 12:28:43 pm
Shabby mess or not. As long as its safe that's all that matters. Anything else is just glitter........
........ The only people who are going to be impressed by a fancy  pro system are other window cleaners.

its nothing to do with impressing other window cleaners...its just generally less hassle with a pro system esp if you want hot water on tap every day and frost protection......
No. You've missed my point.  Nobody cares what the inside of your van looks like ( apart from yourself ) certainly your customers  do not and if anybody was to go  " woooo that's a really smart set up ! " they would be other window cleaners or ciu forum members. I'm not having a dig at people who want  a pro fitted job, I'm disagreeing with  diy looking shabby. If its safe and it works, then it doesn't matter.

ironically enough most people that have seen my set up and liked it have NOT been window cleaners but customers! ;D ;D


And prostitutes...
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Slacky on October 21, 2018, 12:28:48 pm
 ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 22, 2018, 09:34:04 pm

Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.

Good advice here, why keep pump low?  As in low to the ground?  If so, yes that makes sense.  I like the idea of finding faults keeping it simple.  Can you show some pics of your setup?  Not bothered if it doesn't look flashy, i just want basic and simple, i'm no good at DIY so for me i need to keep it as basic and straight forward as possible, certainly for my first DIY anyway.
Here you go.......told you it weren't flashy  ;D
The wiring needs tidying up but I'm waiting on a new controller first.  Otherwise, thats about it.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 23, 2018, 08:04:57 am

Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.

Good advice here, why keep pump low?  As in low to the ground?  If so, yes that makes sense.  I like the idea of finding faults keeping it simple.  Can you show some pics of your setup?  Not bothered if it doesn't look flashy, i just want basic and simple, i'm no good at DIY so for me i need to keep it as basic and straight forward as possible, certainly for my first DIY anyway.
Here you go.......told you it weren't flashy  ;D
The wiring needs tidying up but I'm waiting on a new controller first.  Otherwise, thats about it.

whats the ratchet strap and seat belt strap tied together for?holding the tank in place?...looks nice and secure....... ::)roll ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 23, 2018, 08:52:54 am

Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.

Good advice here, why keep pump low?  As in low to the ground?  If so, yes that makes sense.  I like the idea of finding faults keeping it simple.  Can you show some pics of your setup?  Not bothered if it doesn't look flashy, i just want basic and simple, i'm no good at DIY so for me i need to keep it as basic and straight forward as possible, certainly for my first DIY anyway.
Here you go.......told you it weren't flashy  ;D
The wiring needs tidying up but I'm waiting on a new controller first.  Otherwise, thats about it.

whats the ratchet strap and seat belt strap tied together for?holding the tank in place?...looks nice and secure....... ::)roll ;D
I've been waiting for that .
jo5hm4n asked to see my set up hence the pic. Its to illustrate the battery pump conroller and reel.
I use a pickup and did mention previously that my set up is probably less relevant. That tank was custom made to fit between wheel arches and its really tight. They are not seat belts and ratchets tied together , although tbf it may look like that.
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Smudger on October 23, 2018, 02:27:12 pm
It’s great how people assume the worst, and jump to the conclusion that your just being a cowboy

Darran
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 23, 2018, 03:07:15 pm
It’s great how people assume the worst, and jump to the conclusion that your just being a cowboy

Darran
;)
The "tied bits of seatbelt " are actually "slings" made by the same manufacturer and specs as the ratchet strap between them. My Ford Ranger has bolted on rails on the outside of its hardtop. The slings loop through the rails and themselves before passing inside the hard top and again looped through the ratchet strap hooks ( I would have just used the ratchet strap but the hooks were too big for the rails) The reason I did this was so everything was easily removable including tank when I'm on holidays, festivals, camping, mtn biking weekends etc.
The only thing maybe a bit dodgy is the two 1 meter slings were a little too long to allow me to fit a ratchet strap between them hence why I have tied a knot in them to make them the length I needed.
Yeee Haaa  :D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 23, 2018, 04:06:42 pm
It’s great how people assume the worst, and jump to the conclusion that your just being a cowboy

Darran

most window cleaners are........according to one of my customers(retired accountant!) ;D ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 23, 2018, 04:29:51 pm
It’s great how people assume the worst, and jump to the conclusion that your just being a cowboy

Darran

most window cleaners are........according to one of my customers(retired accountant!) ;D ;D
No , it’s just you Daz   😂😂😂
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 23, 2018, 06:53:07 pm
It’s great how people assume the worst, and jump to the conclusion that your just being a cowboy

Darran

most window cleaners are........according to one of my customers(retired accountant!) ;D ;D

Most window cleaners in my town are thick as two short planks, I'm afraid
My personal IQ is only 42
Or is that an answer to different question  :o?
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 25, 2018, 06:45:06 pm

Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.

Good advice here, why keep pump low?  As in low to the ground?  If so, yes that makes sense.  I like the idea of finding faults keeping it simple.  Can you show some pics of your setup?  Not bothered if it doesn't look flashy, i just want basic and simple, i'm no good at DIY so for me i need to keep it as basic and straight forward as possible, certainly for my first DIY anyway.
Here you go.......told you it weren't flashy  ;D
The wiring needs tidying up but I'm waiting on a new controller first.  Otherwise, thats about it.

its not very "inspiring"though is it? ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Richard Groves on October 25, 2018, 08:21:19 pm

Agree.
Back on topic. I don't have a pic to post right now and tbh others would put mine to shame and probably not so relevant as I have a pickup. But some tips ;
Keep pump low
Keep hose lengths and connections to a minimum but leak free.
Same for wiring, soldered if you can, decent crimped connections otherwise.
In line fuses. Finally,,  don't worry so much about how it looks. Be more concerned about how easily a fault can be traced / fixed e.g.  blown fuse, leak, airlock etc. Its no good something looking neat if you can't fix it easily because its a hassle to get to whilst out working if something does go wrong. Other than cost, for me, this is a big benefit to a tailor made diy system.

Good advice here, why keep pump low?  As in low to the ground?  If so, yes that makes sense.  I like the idea of finding faults keeping it simple.  Can you show some pics of your setup?  Not bothered if it doesn't look flashy, i just want basic and simple, i'm no good at DIY so for me i need to keep it as basic and straight forward as possible, certainly for my first DIY anyway.
Here you go.......told you it weren't flashy  ;D
The wiring needs tidying up but I'm waiting on a new controller first.  Otherwise, thats about it.

its not very "inspiring"though is it? ;D
Anything else is just glitter  ;)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 25, 2018, 08:30:28 pm
As Tosh used to enjoy pointing out  "Fur coat and no knickers"   ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 26, 2018, 01:07:24 pm
I'll take userability over inspiration any day ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Slacky on October 26, 2018, 01:56:03 pm
It’s great how people assume the worst, and jump to the conclusion that your just being a cowboy

Darran

most window cleaners are........according to one of my customers(retired accountant!) ;D ;D

Most window cleaners in my town are thick as two short planks, I'm afraid
My personal IQ is only 42
Or is that an answer to different question  :o?

Isn’t that what you earn?
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Slacky on October 26, 2018, 01:56:18 pm
Per day....
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 26, 2018, 05:12:50 pm
42, no chance,  top earning day ever was £35 and that was cos I was on high earning commercial work
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: jonboywalton75 on October 26, 2018, 05:15:08 pm
Are we on for a typical Drunken Friday night on the CIU abuse forum???? :(
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: P @ F on October 26, 2018, 05:31:23 pm
I usually spend Friday nights on the Xbox , Forza 7 goes from a decent racing community to grown men fish tailing and screaming abuse at each other after as little as 4 or 5  Stella's  ( most amusing )  ;D ;D ;D
But maybe I will hang about here for a bit of  " Handbags at dawn action "  for a change   ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: dazmond on October 26, 2018, 05:53:15 pm
Are we on for a typical Drunken Friday night on the CIU abuse forum???? :(

im off rehearsing with my band near BBC television studios tonight despite it being my missus birthday today! :D :D

oh well!ill make it up to her tomorrow! ;)
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: nathankaye on October 26, 2018, 06:29:19 pm
Are we on for a typical Drunken Friday night on the CIU abuse forum???? :(

im off rehearsing with my band near BBC television studios tonight despite it being my missus birthday today! :D :D

oh well!ill make it up to her tomorrow! ;)

Nah, the present is your absence lol


Only joking 😂😂
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: alank on November 03, 2018, 01:19:32 pm
(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1541251096_photo0(1).jpg)(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1541251125_photo0(2).jpg)
Well here's mine l200 two man set up all diy ;D
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: Crystal-clear on November 03, 2018, 04:43:57 pm
This is my DIY System.  I bought from various parts over the years (as and when needed) and finished with this.  I always used to strap the tank down but now its all bolted and secure.  much neater that way too!

(http://www.cleanitup.co.uk/smf/1539713558_IMG_6456.JPG)

well this looks bloody amazing. why dont you offer a friendly service to do peoples vans up for a little bit of money you could charge in 3 figures.some online people wanting over 1500!id me ur first customer!
Title: Re: DIY Van System Inspiration
Post by: alank on November 03, 2018, 05:04:01 pm
Yup that's a very smart job well done  ;D