Hi, I'm Shaun
Builder of things. Documenter of processes. Believer that anyone can build a van with enough YouTube tutorials and stubbornness.
The Story
In late 2019, I had a vision: build a mobile home and office that could take me anywhere in North America. The catch? I had zero tools and zero van-building experience.
In March 2019, I bought an empty white Ford Transit cargo van. It was just a metal shell with nothing but dreams inside.
"I started with nothing but an internet connection and determination. Every system, every cut, every wire was a first-time experience. If I could do it, anyone can."
What followed was a 400-hour journey spread across 4 years. I worked weekends, nights, and every spare moment. I made mistakes. I cut things twice. I learned to solder. I learned about battery chemistry. I learned that spray foam expands a lot.
The van became more than a project—it became a teacher. Every challenge was a lesson in problem-solving, patience, and persistence.
By the Numbers
Build Philosophy
Quality Over Speed
Four years might seem long, but every system was built right the first time. No shortcuts, no "good enough for now."
Document Everything
I learned from generous builders who shared online. This site is my way of paying that knowledge forward.
Thoughtful Design
Every decision considered full-time living. Not a weekend warrior van—a legitimate home that happens to have wheels.
Continuous Improvement
The build evolved over time. What worked stayed. What didn't got redesigned. The van today is better than version 1.0.
How I Learned
Three resources taught me (almost) everything
FarOutRide
Comprehensive guide for nearly every system in the van. My electrical and plumbing knowledge came from here.
EXPLORIST.life
Essential for understanding electrical systems. Their wiring diagrams and battery guides saved me countless headaches.
Orton Travel Transit
Go-to resource for 80/20 builds and critical systems. Their floor design inspired my modular approach.
The Timeline
Where I Am Now
Washington State, USA
Want to Connect?
Questions about the build? Thinking about starting your own? Let's talk.