NV200 Van Conversion – Phase 2

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In Phase 1, all the window cutouts and pop top cutout had been completed NV200 Van Conversion – Phase 1.

In Phase 2, the pop top and windows have been installed. The pop top is really nice for headroom and air circulation. At GTRV’s shop, I did open one of the pop tops on another like van. It’s a bit tricky to do as it is a manual process. I expect after a few more repetitions I will have the process down to a fine art.

The cabinetry has now been moved from the shop floor and installed into the van. Internal cabling is being routed. How about that nice “picture” window above the stove and sink. Perfect for taking in the views!

Here’s a back view prior to rear shelving and bed being installed. You can see the integrated flooring. The rear shelving area will also include the solar battery and porta-potty compartments.

There’s a lot packed into this small van, but it’s laid out really well!

Tear Drop Trailer Bird Feeder

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I’ve always wanted to build a Tear Drop Trailer for camping. So when I saw a mini tear drop seed feeder on the web, I decided to make a similar seed feeder for the yard.

The one on the web was more of a thistle seed feeder and I wanted to use larger seed to attract White Crowns, Dark-eyed Juncos and Finches. I think that the Finches and Juncos will go inside to get the seed, but the White Crowns are too large.

I thought that I would completely open the two sides to hold the seed. I began with the side layout on scrap plywood. The finished feeder will be about 7″ x 5″ x 5″ in size.

I used a hand coping saw to make the curved cuts.

Here is the layout for the base, with trailer hitch included.

Once everything was cutout, I glued and screwed the two sides to the base.

I used heavy gauge paper to make a template prior to cutting the rolled aluminum, which I fitted to the cured side pieces. Once positioned, I began screwing it in place.

I lightly stained the plywood and added side details and silver paint on the frame.

I bought a toy truck for $3.00 and removed the wheels. I simply cut the truck axle in half, drilled a small hole in the wooden frame and pushed each wheel into position.

Here is the trailer with seed inside. I put a piece of aluminum foil inside the trailer and tossed in a handful of seed. I also put some on the ground to entice my first avian visitors.

It won’t be long and all that seed will be gone. Those snowbirds will be Happy Campers!