Due to the popularity of this Van Conversion series, I am relocating it to a dedicated Van Conversion Channel! youtube.com/@mattsvan The Matt Estlea 2 Channel was originally for shitposting and used as a proving ground for ideas we have, without the risk of damaging the main channels (Matt Estlea) ranking in KZitems search algorythms. Ideally we'd like to continue using it for this purpose, but are concious of clogging up the feeds of people who only signed up for van related content. Hence the dedicated channel. It also means I can use the dedicated channel for travel vlogs and other van related content once the conversion is complete which sounds fun. Go subscribe!
@Erik_The_Viking
2 жыл бұрын
Getting an ex-F1 mechanic is awesome! Just the person you really need looking for van. Definitely overqualified but hey - you got Senna's former mechanic!
@roddyk05
2 жыл бұрын
Seems to know his stuff apart from saying AdBlue was a fuel additive 🤔
@anthonyhamilton8007
Жыл бұрын
@@roddyk05 posh word for pig piss🤣
@robertsanders3213
Жыл бұрын
@@roddyk05 surprised he hasn't used a jack either to check for play in bearings and bushes etc!
@Harry._.Thompson
Жыл бұрын
tbh its probably better to get ur average mechanic to look instead, although that doesn't make such a good title
@MrBrutalMachinee
Жыл бұрын
@@roddyk05 Well his prob not so familiar with diesel engines after all. Heard more people calling it fuel additive than correctly saying that it's for reducing nox emissions.
@carlnewton1126
2 жыл бұрын
Good luck with this new project… Can I make a couple of suggestions before you start anything is… Design a floor and system plan! Go for 2 rotating captains chairs in the front, loose the triple seat you won’t regret it. Go for rear side window panel flair’s / pop-outs as this will enable you to sleep across the van and will dramatically improve your layout options? Take a look at installing a hard side / insulated pop up roof pod with roof rack as it will improve your daily living space even further? If you are feeling really adventurous go for both and give the vans bed the ability to raise to the ceiling so you will have a vast lounge/kitchen and shower/bathroom area with the bonus of a guest bed which you can lower when needed? One thing I do know, is that your mind will be blown by all the options, so all I will say is study the vans on the market and don’t try to reinvent the wheel as it will cost you a fortune and you won’t end up with the result you were looking for 🤯
@toi_techno
Жыл бұрын
I love how my dad's generation use different hand dimensions to do rough measurements
@parkay3560
Жыл бұрын
Fantastic video.Anyone buying a van needs their own Mark. I look forward to seeing what you do with the van🙂
@tacticaladvance
Жыл бұрын
Its very hard to create a van build in LWB due to the 3.5t limit. This will be you biggest challenge.
@jonathanriddell6302
2 жыл бұрын
Talking through what to look for was really interesting - thanks for that
@lloydblackler5419
Жыл бұрын
What an absolutely brilliant video. Sums up the whole process superbly. Good luck with the build. 👊🏽
@ArtyVanHoming
2 жыл бұрын
i think i need a MARK when eventually getting my van
@balthazarquinn
Жыл бұрын
Outstanding video mate! Your mechanic friend is a super nice guy. Glad you found such a great van. She’s a beaut! 😉👍
@johncrisp6683
Жыл бұрын
So nice to have a friend to help! Also to have MOT! We don’t have that where we live. 🇨🇦
@neilwylie4125
Жыл бұрын
Great video have no idea why or how it came into my you tube listings but so glad it did . Mark is a top bloke , really nice guy worked for him for a number of years at his garden centre thought he’d disappeared off the face of the earth as haven’t seen or heard from him in a long time . Matt if you do speak to mark again could you please say hi from me and glad he’s doing well. Good luck with the camper van conversion lock forward to more videos coming soon .
@HarryT5Project
2 жыл бұрын
Great video Matt, after getting scammed when buying a van (yes I am also a mechanic) I’ve found this video very helpful. Looking to buy a T4/T5 next! Cheers
@VinlandAlchemist
2 жыл бұрын
Great vid', Matt! ROB!! SO EXCELLENT TO SEE YOU!! 🙂👍
@PatNetherlander
2 жыл бұрын
Great video Matt. All I expected! And Mark is a legend indeed. The sheer knowledge where and what to look for… incredible!
@elliotttrent9693
Жыл бұрын
That pipe in the third van is likely for threshold trims if they are carpet fitters 🙂
@frog382
Жыл бұрын
This is the first video im seeing from you and it was very nice. I was into watching these van lifers build their stuff and all i can advice is dont believe in a myth that there is such thing as ”too much isolation”
@UrbanVanlife
2 жыл бұрын
The bits on the wind screen is the gps for the after market stereo and the thing on the side looks like a dab aerial. I’d say say that one looked the better . Also the water in the air in box happens cos there is a little drain that gets blocked in the bottom . Easy fix
@zepedrofd
Жыл бұрын
One personal tip: I would prefer a van (or any vehicle) with a reasonable dent or dust under the hood than one that has been tidied up just to make it pretty. A mechanic that doesn't bother with overspray has a good chance of not bothering to do a good job. You end up with the body rotting away under the repairs. Some used vehicles are not cleaned under the hood because sometimes water will get an electrical malfunction (rare but happens) and they want to avoid the cost...
@henrik1743
Жыл бұрын
Exactly, sometimes the uncleaned hood is better than the sparkling clean one
@booyaa1851
2 жыл бұрын
Just watched this from start to finish. Gonna be a good series
@gpetesr
2 жыл бұрын
Mark seems great 👍🏻
@tangomoko2
Жыл бұрын
Very good video, you were so lucky to have the person with you, well over qualified but great video to have some one to use logic rather than heart to take over you decision making process.
@qhew
2 жыл бұрын
than you for sharing your experience. i like to know the following. cash price paid. (why is everyone obsessed with finance company’s & why do they not disclose the cash price? surely required by law. without identifying dealer, where is dealership located, London or regional? all this helps seeing bigger picture of bang for buck. very impressed you had mechanic show you what to look for - hands on. what was his charge or hourly rate. i’m from Sydney Aust , we have big auction houses here (eg Pickles). only static showroom tests allowed. you buy & take away no warranty. like you, amost of these vans come from state or fed gov bodies as in uk. otherwise might find odd one on busy road dealer & pay retail. but you get to road test.
@jamescooper4252
2 жыл бұрын
I will watch with much interest. Your skills should create an amazing, bespoke vehicle.
@nexpro6985
Жыл бұрын
Check the rear wing and the drag reduction system. And don't forget the diffuser.
@rjp666
Жыл бұрын
A bit of advice with regard to ex multi drop vans, check every hidden crevice even behind lose paneling for plastic bottles of pee.
@austinwalters
Жыл бұрын
You found a niche here. I could watch him check cars all day.
@OVERATV
Жыл бұрын
Good Luck with the project Matt!
@thetheatrezoo3603
2 жыл бұрын
I'm happy to see you with a new project. Your Bertha table was my inspiration when getting back into woodworking, and, coincidentally, I've lately been scouring for van videos because I'm considering moving on to one in the next few months. I really look forward to your series.
@applebutter4036
2 жыл бұрын
Lol, kinda similar on my end. Bertha also brought me here back in the day and I've also been planning to move into an RV when my lease expires. Are we all being mind controlled or something?
@FBall-im8ui
Жыл бұрын
Very Valuable info, Brilliant mate, Mark is so knowledgable
@nicolasrodrigo9
Жыл бұрын
Man I just can't watch the video while you are driving on the left side without feeling unsafe 😂
@Kikilang60
Жыл бұрын
I don't know Europe, or the United Kingdom, but in America modern vehicles have dozens of computers in them. Mercedes cars have over hundred computers. You can plug in a device that allows you access to the car's history. The device allows real time analysis of the running of vehicle. It tells you everything you need to know. Piston firing, gas flow, everything. Deals can turn off warning lights, and erase codes, but if drive the car with the device plugged in, the codes pop back on. Look under the dash, by the driver. You'll see plug. Cheap devices that read cars cost about a hundred, but they are limited. Most mechanics have the expensive ones. She never buy a vehicle without doing a computer diagnostic. It's just mechanics are profit motivated, so they are not entirely square about what they read on the computer.
@dayvemsee
2 жыл бұрын
Can’t wait for this series!
@deanVetUk
Жыл бұрын
Enjoyed the video. Would have been even more interesting if we had the mileage, asking and final negotiated £.
@derrick021
Жыл бұрын
your cameraman is just amazin
@kurtlee3198
2 жыл бұрын
the pipe was probably to slide a brush or rake into something they used a lot and wanted easy quick access to
@MikMech
Жыл бұрын
I'd get some rust converter under the bonnet around the brake master cylinder/booster. I wouldn't want the 'Bickie Tin' to leak. (Bugger all brakes ensue)
@jeffjohnson847
2 жыл бұрын
Good video Matt think would of chose new one 18 plate I drive a 20 plate love it think could of done the dents quite easy
@renius78
Жыл бұрын
Good luck Matt. I have one child left at home. As soon as she has grown and independent I'm off the grid. I feel your frustration with the craziness.
@justinjones9255
Жыл бұрын
What a nice man. Just top notch.
@kawasutanku
Жыл бұрын
I need a "guy" like this next time I go van shopping :) great vid
@deaman007
2 жыл бұрын
I'm jealous already looks like a good base to start with, well done bud
@LeoDodier
2 жыл бұрын
Hi Matt, exciting new project, I’m very happy for you. I’m sure this will get your mind off of the events, shut off the news, and enjoy the next chapter! Also, sorry to hear about your Queen, from what I knew of her, she was very well loved. I subscribe to your van build site also.
@patrickramzin5325
Жыл бұрын
Really nice video and easy watch!👍
@roberta4989
2 жыл бұрын
Great episode. Nice choice of vans, I wish you great luck with it. Maybe you should check out Mountain Made Vans. Trent and Allie's company. Kool van interior designs!
@KoeiNL
Жыл бұрын
"So this is an engine?" :D
@kinross24
2 жыл бұрын
Did you check to see on those XL wheelbase vans that your Licence covers driving it? It might come under Class C1 regulations once you add all the extra weight inside! Beware!!
@mattydare
2 жыл бұрын
Good point that needs thinking about. I got Grandad rites on 7.5 tonne lic. A good mate recently bought a beautiful later model Crafter road ready. It is absolutely superb inside and built by a craftsman to a level I can well imagine this will be. All singing all dancing beauty. Now the downside - it's heavy so you need a C1 lic because empty it's over 3.5tonnes. It's heavy so a slight gradient on damp grass and the wheels spin. If you put BFGoodrich all terrain tyres on it all this would do is dig a hole quicker.
@matt.5497
Жыл бұрын
You didn't spot the almost rotted brake pipe on the master cylinder of the third van lol.
@paulcooper8892
Жыл бұрын
When’s he next installment? Looks a really interesting project.
@drdeaf9420
2 жыл бұрын
I cant wait for this series whoop whoop
@iainansell5930
2 жыл бұрын
...just don't forget to rust proof the area around the ramp anchor points...
@alouisschafer7212
Жыл бұрын
Buy based on which Van is in the best shape mechanically and has the lowest miles. Might not be the prettiest one but especially since these Mercedes are all timing chain engines you want one with good service record and low miles because neglected oil changes will really hurt the timing chain and it will go eventually with miles driven and that's a fairly expensive repair item that you cant ignore. DON'T buy an ex-delivery van they work the hardest. Also: Just listen closely to the idle on a cold start. Are the lifters ticking are the cylinders firing a bit rough you know bit of diesel knock that's an indicator for injectors going bad or plugging up. Can be remedied with a can of injector cleaner in the tank. Based on the Video the first one is the best. 3rd one may be solid but I hate to see all that rust on it underneath that will only get worse.
@mariushegli
2 жыл бұрын
I have nothing to say really, but I appreciate your content, and wish to help with the yt-algorithms.
@alexandergrey5913
Жыл бұрын
What about V5 purpose change & weight checking for legal plus insurance ? Otherwise could be a really nasty experience if pulled or involved in RTC
@msc_uk
Жыл бұрын
From the video your in southampton 🤦🏻♂️ and went to some of the dodgiest places 😂😂
@BrentDaughertyMe
Жыл бұрын
I missed the "why" of all this. I guess the woodworking channel isn't providing enough to buy a house?
@henrik1743
Жыл бұрын
You sure the 3rd one was the only extra long one? To me the first and third one are both extra long ones.
@KevinColt
Жыл бұрын
Never knew F1 mechanics know about living in vans.
@c.a.g.1977
2 жыл бұрын
Looks like an awesome start of a great series! Great van, Matt!
@alanbstard4
Жыл бұрын
what about a Toyota troop carrier with rooftop tent?
@Grt234
Жыл бұрын
A proper mechanic would take a obd reader with them.and scan for codes.!!!look how clean the engine is..lol..the dealer's clean it up..
@alouisschafer7212
Жыл бұрын
yeah Codes can condemn the vehicle
@mnp3713
Жыл бұрын
when buying a van rule no 1 never buy a used tool - a veichle used for work is a tool for making money. If you finish a job quick you make more so you treat your "tool" like shit and buy a new when its worn out. A small buisness owner like a baker or pivate etc would treat his van better than the postal service :D
@glynwilliams1502
Жыл бұрын
Matt did you use Auto Trader to find vans to look at?
@Severon1965
2 жыл бұрын
subbed love a new van build
@thecultofgolf2810
Жыл бұрын
Matt just watched the video of your van purchased, since having purchased the van have you come across any hidden issues?
@sahhull
Жыл бұрын
The vanlife bs has to end. Everyone and their dog is buying and converting vans. It's decimated the used van market in the UK It's made it impossible for a tradie like myself to buy a 6 year old van for a reasonable price.
@3DPeter
Жыл бұрын
There's no way that i would even think about a van from DHL or any other delivery company, because those drivers drive like idiots, and the vans spend the most of their time in the city, so it's stop and go, stop and go stop and go, and that wears out the entre van waaaay faster than a van that spends it's time mostly on the highways.
@alouisschafer7212
Жыл бұрын
Yeah ex-delivery Vans are the ones that work the hardest. Tradie Vans are often pretty beaten up too and may have neglected maintenance you never know. Especially with the Mercedes you want a spotless service record because neglecting oil changes really fucking hurts the timing chain and on them.
@3DPeter
Жыл бұрын
@@alouisschafer7212 Those timing chain and sprockets suck anyways because it's just an single chain and not a duplex that last the entire lifetime. And to make it "easier" to fix, they dit put them at the backside of the engine, so it needs to be taken out the van. Hell, nothing beats good old fashion oldtimers.
@alouisschafer7212
Жыл бұрын
@@3DPeter nothing beats a timing belt Old timers are stone age vehicles literally museum prices because practically useless. Best cars were made in late 80s, 90s and 2000s imo
@3DPeter
Жыл бұрын
@@alouisschafer7212 Yep, a timing belt cost around 50 dollars and it's mostly a 1-2 hour job with plain and simple tools. I had the chain and sprockets done in my sprinter, and that was a 2 day job and did cost me 1200 dollars, and that was cheap because at the mercedes stealership it would be at least double that money.
@Daedalus_UK
Жыл бұрын
Where is your scan tool?
@davidgreen7870
2 жыл бұрын
Did any one bother to look underneath? People rarely do ,
@KevinColt
Жыл бұрын
F1 mechanic asking obsolete questions about a regular van as if it was a sunday racing car. Yea ok, relevant to your living in van picking.
@timseguine2
2 жыл бұрын
Just curious how you know Mark
@robjones4662
2 жыл бұрын
What a nightmare he would be to by something
@Cornucopias4game
Жыл бұрын
To mee looks like you overthinking - do good research at home, check photo - go and pickup first good one.
@stephanberger3476
2 жыл бұрын
You're not in the EU anymore, but still in Europe. :P "across to Europe"
@dfhepner
2 жыл бұрын
I find it interesting that the Brit’s use feet and inches instead of metric when talking about the human hight.
@00Clive00
2 жыл бұрын
We like to mix and match, I worked with a fella who would write cutting lists in feet and millimetres sometimes. e.g a length of timber @ 4ft 27 mm 🤦♂️😅
@marks-0-0
2 жыл бұрын
Yes we mix and match in the UK, for rough measuring I'll use imperial and metric for accurate work.
@00Clive00
2 жыл бұрын
@@marks-0-0 Often just depends what side of the tape a measurement falls on, I try to use a metric tape in the workshop, always both measurements for site work.
@marks-0-0
2 жыл бұрын
@@00Clive00 exactly
@michamausili6239
Жыл бұрын
ρгό𝔪σŞm
@Szlejer
Жыл бұрын
Your F1 mechanic is a joke... he can't even spot that all the vans have the steering column on the wrong side!!!
@xxxxbigdavexxxx
Жыл бұрын
even an F1 mechanic kicks tyres lol 17:24
@lliambunter
Жыл бұрын
Make sure you have loads of money, because when they go wrong you'll need it .plenty of it
@googlelimp9834
Жыл бұрын
BEFORE THIS STARTS I CAN SEE IT WILL BE A MERCEDES SPRINTER
@Rhythm24inch
Жыл бұрын
Pretty basic advice from an ex F1 mechanic, make sure it feels right?!
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