Found a new van one I like at last.

[Pudsey Bear]

Yeah, but god help you if it needs any welding.

 

[mark61]

Here's one that better shows the build process for an A class, the base vehicle stops above the engine bay, they even cut away some of the steel in the pillar area, so no way is it stronger, form over function really.

Those ones are chucked together, compared to the Morelo's.

 

[mark61]

For strength a van conversion would probably be best.

Could well be, but I reckon those side panels are pretty stiff, and A class and coach built have a stronger chassis than a panel van, even factory cab chassis.

 

[Robmac]

Could well be, but I reckon those side panels are pretty stiff, and A class and coach built have a stronger chassis than a panel van, even factory cab chassis.

You can buy those insulated composite/sandwich panels cut to size Mark, they'll even cut the window/door apertures for you and then all you have to do is bond them to a floor and add appropriate extrusions and you have a box. (probably a lot more to it though).

I got a quote for the panels once but I can't remember how much it was but not outrageous.

 

[Robmac]

Interesting article;

Motorhome construction guide - Practical Motorhome

Appearances are important, but some motorhome structures are better than others, explains Practical Motorhome's expert John Wickersham

www.practicalmotorhome.com

 

[mark61]

You can buy those insulated composite/sandwich panels cut to size Mark, they'll even cut the window/door apertures for you and then all you have to do is bond them to a floor and add appropriate extrusions and you have a box. (probably a lot more to it though.

I got a quote for the panels once but I can't remember how much it was but not outrageous.

Yes, looked into it before I bought current van. It's a great option, but far too much for me to take on as a DIY.

 

[Robmac]

Yes, looked into it before I bought current van. It's a great option, but far too much for me to take on as a DIY.

Me too.

I did get another quote from an expedition van company just for a box made of composite/sandwich with windows and a door to fit to a chassis but they wanted far too much.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

Could well be, but I reckon those side panels are pretty stiff, and A class and coach built have a stronger chassis than a panel van, even factory cab chassis.

I reckon they don't make a different chassis other than for length, and that'll be a chassis extension, too expensive.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

You can buy those insulated composite/sandwich panels cut to size Mark, they'll even cut the window/door apertures for you and then all you have to do is bond them to a floor and add appropriate extrusions and you have a box. (probably a lot more to it though).

I got a quote for the panels once but I can't remember how much it was but not outrageous.

Peter, (Listerdiesel) built a very strong trailer for his industrial engine, he use a honeycomb panel and aluminium extrusions from AALCO.

 

[mark61]

I reckon they don't make a different chassis other than for length, and that'll be a chassis extension, too expensive.

I think you will find they are slightly different, barring the Iveco Daily which still use an old school chassis, and is a true body on frame.

Modern vans are nearly all some sort of hybrid between unibody and frame, the body is part of the structure. On these models, the chassis need reinforcing in some way when in cab and chassis form.
That's my understanding, but could be wrong.