Europe By Camper - Travelling Europe By Motorhome: Van Mods

Roof Mounted FM Radio Antenna

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One of the things we have always struggled with is cab radio reception. It was something I thought was fairly unique to our Fiat Ducato based motorhomes, but is something our Renault Master suffered from also - with its wing mounted FM antenna. I've tried various windscreen antennas in the past with varying degrees of success but ultimately, nothing beats a proper roof mounted antenna - which is what the base vehicle would have most likely had been a commercial van.<br />
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While running cables for our solar install I decided that I was going to have a go at installing an inexpensive active FM antenna on the roof. This bypassed the need to drill the bodywork and got the antenna to the highest point.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVL2lbICSBjLAUozSkfqLOVOhsrOjHAqayAcBubdzgMeMWuBO0ckW3Yz9Z4FafnTiFnLy3keARyqgzDY81lpNRRu_kMp6DbZUiyCebRRColeGeM2DNBPa8n3TubhL7itE6vp7fJ6dn-hQ/s1600/IMG_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVL2lbICSBjLAUozSkfqLOVOhsrOjHAqayAcBubdzgMeMWuBO0ckW3Yz9Z4FafnTiFnLy3keARyqgzDY81lpNRRu_kMp6DbZUiyCebRRColeGeM2DNBPa8n3TubhL7itE6vp7fJ6dn-hQ/s320/IMG_0009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Parts Required - all purchased on eBay</b><br />
1x IP65 box - £4<br />
1x Car Audio Active (powered) FM Antenna - £10<br />
1x 5m RF Extension Cable - £3<br />
1x 5m length of 16AWG cable - £2<br />
1x 50cm length of twin core cable ~ 50p<br />
1x In-Line fuse connector and 5A fuse ~ £1<br />
2x Spade Connectors ~ 20p<br />
2x 20mm Twin Cable Glands ~ £1<br />
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~ Sikafix 512 left over from Solar Install<br />
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Total Cost £21.70<br />
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The antenna is an active antenna, which means it requires power. It would usually only require a positive feed as it is grounded by the chassis on a car - but in this situation you will need to run an earth feed also. The cables were run to the back of the radio and the positive feed taken from the ignition feed (red) from the back of the radio. This means you wouldn't benefit from the enhanced signal when the ignition wasn't on, but usually for us reception is fine when stationary.<br />
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The IP65 box isn't the most aerodynamic - but I needed one with a flat top for the antenna and wanted one with a screw down top that was removable. In reality I can't see that it matters a great deal as the Sikaflex is incredibly strong.<br />
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Once installed the results were better than expected. I was a bit skeptical about the benefit of the powered element, but removing and replacing the 5A fuse made a noticeable difference in the sound quality.<br />
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Looking forward to testing it out on the road and seeing how it performs longer term.</div>

Roof Mounted FM Radio Antenna

One of the things we have always struggled with is cab radio reception. It was something I thought was fairly unique to our Fiat Ducato bas...

Adria Twin Modifications and Improvements

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1.) Bookshelves / TV & Laptop Shelf in the Rear<br />
2.) Cup Shelf in the Rear<br />
3.) Pop up worktop in the Kitchen Area<br />
4.) Shower holder<br />
5.) Towel Rail<br />
6.) Kitchen Storage<br />
7.) Stealth / Insulating Curtains<br />
8.) Improved LED Lighting<br />
9.) Improved Underbed Organisation<br />
10.) Increased battery capacity<br />
11.) Full length mirror in wardrobe<br />
12.) Improved waste tank drain<br />
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<b>1.) Bookshelves / TV & Laptop Shelf in the Rear</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-rGHLazqwKdeJgnUd7l1zy9O-dlh0wCig7nTpKS5Zm9MKv7Zvpk4KD7NYzBKzgKseXxCe2MRLkTMCRDzlD0op8NnS9nkkzYoywdkOql3aCCr9ZodsyMo2c0X3Jlk9mK-byfKONDAc94/s1600/IMG_2592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-rGHLazqwKdeJgnUd7l1zy9O-dlh0wCig7nTpKS5Zm9MKv7Zvpk4KD7NYzBKzgKseXxCe2MRLkTMCRDzlD0op8NnS9nkkzYoywdkOql3aCCr9ZodsyMo2c0X3Jlk9mK-byfKONDAc94/s320/IMG_2592.JPG" width="320" /></a>For us the main reason for buying the Twin was the fixed rear bed, our main use of the van is to drive and sleep so the fixed bed makes the task of "making up a bed" non-existent. However, we felt that the space at the bottom could be better ultilised and we wanted to be able to watch TV or more likely place a laptop at the end of the bed to watch. We also seem to carry with us in inordinate supply of travel books (did someone say Amazon Kindle?) so needed somewhere to store them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfVazyK-RQXVOceNrRidxh9TeYdEPi4v_Oa7KTXLvPbf3gFLxibotkKM8jjLYqph-p-7Nxur1SS6byTYpDR0rIbCPVwmUgAD7_ckYpBjU7bQ8YnW3Y7twtmPZQd43PVybjXjXnKQa4Zc/s1600/IMG_2593+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfVazyK-RQXVOceNrRidxh9TeYdEPi4v_Oa7KTXLvPbf3gFLxibotkKM8jjLYqph-p-7Nxur1SS6byTYpDR0rIbCPVwmUgAD7_ckYpBjU7bQ8YnW3Y7twtmPZQd43PVybjXjXnKQa4Zc/s320/IMG_2593+%2528Large%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a>B&Q must have supplied Adria to start with, because their contiboard is the same colour as our twins interior! With the addition of a brushed aluminium dowel it made a perfect bookshelf with space for both our 10" Avtex and 13" Laptop. The wood is contoured to the shape of the rear wall and screwed together and from above and is very solid.<br />
We added 1x 240v and 1x 12v sockets underneath for power and couldn't help put add a strip of remote controlled colour changing LED lights for a bit of fun!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/O_94dhB1jJE" title="YouTube video player" width="640"></iframe>

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<b>2.) Cup Shelf in the Rear</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuEta_9Ls7eK2Q1YRK1RbaAQXJV4o97YNz3YqvKFKRUC34tWZdyjSHh9t5fE2cI5IMkHiX-cjV5I7YCRj93oBoq7l_Td2LhIWj1psJPeDEIGQKNjWJk9XPJQkEZt2QBt0VaNcZ-6IqKSg/s1600/IMG_2590+%2528Large%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuEta_9Ls7eK2Q1YRK1RbaAQXJV4o97YNz3YqvKFKRUC34tWZdyjSHh9t5fE2cI5IMkHiX-cjV5I7YCRj93oBoq7l_Td2LhIWj1psJPeDEIGQKNjWJk9XPJQkEZt2QBt0VaNcZ-6IqKSg/s320/IMG_2590+%2528Large%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
There is nowhere to put your brew in the bed of the Twin we found, so this little shelf is a perfect addition. Simply screwed and braced from inside the wardrobe it fits two cups with room for a couple of biscuits or a glass of water and mobile phones on a night (probably not the best combination!).<br />
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Underneath is stores the LED light remote control and the remote for the Avtex TV.<br />
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<b>3.) Pop up worktop in the Kitchen Area</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeBlDIA4KW3xUcc6TqAjWGRGx7dtJjfBZ_BMMTZCS3L7g0tYXEUAlPjDqQPwr2qC_mIblQnSh5zpNycBfwedtlDjZUsY6LhIeQufNPQTtql5UySAgN4o84Y-CLyUxMgDve_9s7SXsgOs/s1600/IMG_2606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKeBlDIA4KW3xUcc6TqAjWGRGx7dtJjfBZ_BMMTZCS3L7g0tYXEUAlPjDqQPwr2qC_mIblQnSh5zpNycBfwedtlDjZUsY6LhIeQufNPQTtql5UySAgN4o84Y-CLyUxMgDve_9s7SXsgOs/s320/IMG_2606.JPG" width="213" /></a><br />
 The newer Twins come equipt with a pull out worktop which when retracted is stored on top of the grill. This wasn't really an option for us and even so would probably not extend as far as we wanted it to.<br />
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With a bit of help from Rowley on the MHF forums we managed to find a suitable bracket rated upto 40KG. While eyewateringly expensive at £20 delivered for the pair there really wasn't any alterantive so we went ahead and purchased a pair of <a href="http://www.locksonline.com/acatalog/hinged-bracket-40-kg-load-capacity-sprung-2749.html">these brackets</a>.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4GrG2InmePswrOwe6FsNscoAoOR3MqYXVCiKoDoyizGDi3R_Nawf0kDaaULNf7pb3BPk9qi37_xRCIb0bBOmQYUeYeil07tILXV2dBIYCa8goMp9BtS9j8yGUYphg0_XHqKOyIfPUPI/s1600/IMG_2608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF4GrG2InmePswrOwe6FsNscoAoOR3MqYXVCiKoDoyizGDi3R_Nawf0kDaaULNf7pb3BPk9qi37_xRCIb0bBOmQYUeYeil07tILXV2dBIYCa8goMp9BtS9j8yGUYphg0_XHqKOyIfPUPI/s200/IMG_2608.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
The brackets are fixed to the interior but also braced heavily from behind, we will make sure not to put undue weight towards the end of the shelf but it is a handy length for placing a wine glass in an evening!<br />
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While it does obscure the cubby holes its no hardship having to raise the table in order to access them.<br />
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<b>4 & 5.) Shower Holder & Towel Rail</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWzfuu16WBGLZWkeII4J7K2aGrn3iXHaTaigr3eOXa14EJAJgSfdMfXdBpHJuifNvvFPuYci6gad4snIInU3HERdYGspQpxA1FeU12BsJn4zMQo3avreQvLIAy6BLnvp54eETvIeshiU/s1600/IMG_2616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFWzfuu16WBGLZWkeII4J7K2aGrn3iXHaTaigr3eOXa14EJAJgSfdMfXdBpHJuifNvvFPuYci6gad4snIInU3HERdYGspQpxA1FeU12BsJn4zMQo3avreQvLIAy6BLnvp54eETvIeshiU/s200/IMG_2616.JPG" width="133" /></a><br />
Nice easy one, for reasons I've not yet fathomed the Twin doesn't come with a shower head holder, so we fitted on here. Part was £5 from Towsure @ the NEC.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJq1KKyXp0tYyLn_NBi9s5irG4h-ChZ09cNeWphdrvrW5nQs-zkMsf80pjkiq4mKrsrYOwXzv2QhX4c_Ds5jMZIJm96EgLgW9lXXQFBo88iHup5dxR1X85DIFfjWI1rQTxAEO3-m7O9oE/s1600/IMG_2614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJq1KKyXp0tYyLn_NBi9s5irG4h-ChZ09cNeWphdrvrW5nQs-zkMsf80pjkiq4mKrsrYOwXzv2QhX4c_Ds5jMZIJm96EgLgW9lXXQFBo88iHup5dxR1X85DIFfjWI1rQTxAEO3-m7O9oE/s200/IMG_2614.JPG" width="132" /></a><br />
The towel rail was just some brushed aluminium rail from B&Q and two wall mounted ends - total cost a couple of quid and allows for extra storage and privacy as it also doubles as a screen for the window.<br />
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In addition we also added a trigger shower head from Caravan Components in Hull which was just £5 and allows you to set the temperature and 'pause' the water while maintaining the same temperature on resume.<br />
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<b>6.) Kitchen Storage</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovBfly6U9eZasAS11a-FLIxBt1YPvSwbDF7-nl0oUoROIEZFyEw6R5OrBncTHQhyphenhyphenExW10lcEtkFBAzCAfgX2E2_KuS7WM9Em_nqJeM8qzJOJVkAkyCNruUBBbHb-gmASrqwL9ZTCevgQ/s1600/IMG_2624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhovBfly6U9eZasAS11a-FLIxBt1YPvSwbDF7-nl0oUoROIEZFyEw6R5OrBncTHQhyphenhyphenExW10lcEtkFBAzCAfgX2E2_KuS7WM9Em_nqJeM8qzJOJVkAkyCNruUBBbHb-gmASrqwL9ZTCevgQ/s320/IMG_2624.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
Nice and easy, couple of spice racks off eBay for £10 delivered, great for throwing bits and pieces in to save getting lost in cupboards and drawers<br />
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<b>7.) Stealth / Insulating Curtains</b><br />
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The perfect way to keep in warmth when wildcamping on a night - fleece lined curtains which Velcro across the whole cab entrance. Also allows the cab seats to remain forward facing and thus the van appears empty or at least less obvious then silver / remis blinds pulled across. We've also found they improve the efficiency of the cab air con since it is cooling a smaller space. Big thanks to Sophie's Mum for sewing them for us! We used a smaller piece of the same material under the bed instead of the wooden divide. You'll also notice we've recovered our seats - <a href="http://www.europebycamper.com/2011/03/motorhome-seat-covers.html">click here to see the article about the covers.</a><br />
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<b>8.)  Improved LED Lighting</b><br />
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We've already wrote a post about LED lighting in our van, which cab new viewed <a href="http://www.europebycamper.com/2011/02/motorhome-adhesive-led-lighting-strips.html">by clicking this link</a>. The only addition to which is a new home for our previously "too bright" 5050 LED strip - that is behind the curtain strip above the table. These are so bright that they light the whole van and use next to no power - meaning the roof mounted lights are now almost redundant!<br />
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<b>9.) Improved Under-bed Organisation</b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSCuA1xObDF9zVRQJG8lxe1EIx36nag2re_i6-m4cwJDIpNc7ecZirmzdc83fqTQihyphenhyphenUQyZBResQ3gZIAZ-xyxORjhu0yWrTPyzBAIY4zHpro-02TvX3HHpMAOo8nAuB0uM10PWx5N0lk/s1600/IMG_2628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSCuA1xObDF9zVRQJG8lxe1EIx36nag2re_i6-m4cwJDIpNc7ecZirmzdc83fqTQihyphenhyphenUQyZBResQ3gZIAZ-xyxORjhu0yWrTPyzBAIY4zHpro-02TvX3HHpMAOo8nAuB0uM10PWx5N0lk/s320/IMG_2628.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
To me the use of the under bed area makes or breaks the twin. We tried many combinations before arriving at this one. 4 large stacking boxes are accessible from the rear, while 4 further smaller stacking boxes are accessible from inside the van meaning nearly all of the available area is used. A small divide allows for leveling blocks, fiamma screens and folding chairs to be stacked without impeding the removal of the boxes which slide out with ease.<br />
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<b>10.) Increased Battery Capacity</b><br />
We managed to fit 2x 86AH batteries into the compartment with no problems at all, increasing our capacity to 172AH. Coupled with our 2x 11kg Gaslow kit we shouldn't have any issues with heating or lighting! <br />
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11.) Full length mirror in wardrobe</div>
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Sophie wanted a full length mirror, so we purchased 2x A3 perspex mirror sheets off eBay for under £10. Slight 'house of mirrors' effect where they join but for its use and the price I certainly won't be complaining!</div>
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12.) Improved waste tank drain</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16GTqtEJYKlM6LqnL5Va5FZDWBoqGV74Q6Mrr0r6b1pLv1rOEvcbjT3l8I0Df_oxgfTOjJLIMdxWAXppZxSvE_oGYHxey_bpmgOz2zGHs6V8dK8FWe3nBLq7fHQxsLheM1jj99miZYm8/s1600/IMG_2630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi16GTqtEJYKlM6LqnL5Va5FZDWBoqGV74Q6Mrr0r6b1pLv1rOEvcbjT3l8I0Df_oxgfTOjJLIMdxWAXppZxSvE_oGYHxey_bpmgOz2zGHs6V8dK8FWe3nBLq7fHQxsLheM1jj99miZYm8/s320/IMG_2630.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Bought from CAK tanks and will be fitted shortly, check back for an update!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMHEU4X6aThadh7mKZNEZ2wtdDXLNRKMwrm0ZHRodony-PqkGsWfadlozYLGbwtvb7GXU5KpBSoLhQQamAorZdtaaf5hyphenhyphenQ1ExcoAvciuWEnbpS0T4QZlMloo-yxRmMJA0qHEFYkBYCtbk/s1600/IMG_2632+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMHEU4X6aThadh7mKZNEZ2wtdDXLNRKMwrm0ZHRodony-PqkGsWfadlozYLGbwtvb7GXU5KpBSoLhQQamAorZdtaaf5hyphenhyphenQ1ExcoAvciuWEnbpS0T4QZlMloo-yxRmMJA0qHEFYkBYCtbk/s320/IMG_2632+%2528Medium%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And here she is fitted. The cable ties are a temporary measure while I fabricate an L shaped bracket to support the front part of the drain, which is now flush with the valance and makes for much easier access and lining up of the van over a grate. The wooden support blocks, which are fixed to the chassis, will be painted black. Despite how it looks from the photo the pipe is totally level and drains effectively, the 40mm pipe fits into the existing waste tank attachment.<br />
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The parts were from CAK tanks:<br />
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RW40UNTH1Q (40mm Union) - £5.35<br />
MDT040 (40mm megadrain tap) - £12.98<br />
NIFELB040 (40mm elbow hose) - £5.45</div>
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Adria Twin Modifications and Improvements

1.) Bookshelves / TV & Laptop Shelf in the Rear 2.) Cup Shelf in the Rear 3.) Pop up worktop in the Kitchen Area 4.) Shower holder ...

Motorhome Adhesive LED Lighting Strips

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I've been experimenting with LED light strips from eBay, these are about £6 for 1m lengths, with great success.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHiqhG8vXfZjnyQTYX-hXVB2g5GzNzLfjpsfasspMZyOYAtw4PvAnDDse87YyZyzpuN7NunIsmnOzjnVai-tiVPZ89vx_auwVna-5yIvgNeHryvuWBUahT8hJgj_uVhmgWFsR8MaT9s8/s1600/led1+%2528Large%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHiqhG8vXfZjnyQTYX-hXVB2g5GzNzLfjpsfasspMZyOYAtw4PvAnDDse87YyZyzpuN7NunIsmnOzjnVai-tiVPZ89vx_auwVna-5yIvgNeHryvuWBUahT8hJgj_uVhmgWFsR8MaT9s8/s200/led1+%2528Large%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The problem in our van is there are lots of dark spots as the factory fitted roof mounted LED's aren't that bright as they use the older style diode LED's. These were no doubt cutting edge when the van was designed in 2006 but are nothing in comparison to the 12v halogen units they were meant to be replacing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixckLf-rqiozUaCR7vOnoWEmwlUfRHcGhh7bBDoRbGF4UIDV_hXlaGMj4MqnmuZZz9vFpLZfEh60POJ8LbvafJRF_3MzEBk4zSeqUyPf_jYlbsP7jXxm6Vxy0-n8v3lkrNeC_yMjvcHSU/s1600/IMG_1621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixckLf-rqiozUaCR7vOnoWEmwlUfRHcGhh7bBDoRbGF4UIDV_hXlaGMj4MqnmuZZz9vFpLZfEh60POJ8LbvafJRF_3MzEBk4zSeqUyPf_jYlbsP7jXxm6Vxy0-n8v3lkrNeC_yMjvcHSU/s320/IMG_1621.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I've also gone down the route of replacing some of the spot lights / bathroom lights with the latest 5050 type SMD G4 (two pin) LED's. They do the job and are super bright but again don't match up to the sort of lighting effect I wanted to create in our van. They are very cheap though, at about £1 a bulb straight from China!<br />
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So I started looking at LED strips for sale on eBay. The LED strips have come about because of the SMD (surface mounted) LED's which are forming to basis for LED technology moving forward.<br />
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When buying an LED strip you need to consider three variables:<br />
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<b>1.) Brightness</b><br />
 There are three main types, so it would seem, 1210, 3258 and 5050. These figures as far as I can tell are the size and brighness of the LED's - a 3258 LED is 6 lumen whereas a 5050 LED is 18 lumen so considerably brighter.<br />
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<b>2.) Colour Temperature </b><br />
The main two colour temperature's you will find are described as "warm white" which is found at around 3000 kelvin right the way to cool white usually found somewhere around 4000 kelvin. "Daylight" is actually found nearer 6000 kelvin. However, halogen bulbs are much closer to the "warm white" level of the colour spectrum  so it is likely that this colour temperature will appeal the most.<br />
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<b>3.)</b> <b>Waterproof</b><br />
You can also purchase these LED strips which have a waterproof covering, these are ideal if you want to use them on the outside of your van such as an awning light. They are so thin you could easily run them down the inside of your Fiamma awning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKFQIOGMQvx6ygxQJTSSp3ju2kwOfVDRydjxIpwpP7zIXA3uPYMP7Btn_tR83Hp8Cow7EFAwZJBgMPZCXioRseGPVHk8q4rvBj9EkQIcZAbvqotofam8t1_cpYo4a_xRwQD8DveqaYWg/s1600/IMG_1605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkKFQIOGMQvx6ygxQJTSSp3ju2kwOfVDRydjxIpwpP7zIXA3uPYMP7Btn_tR83Hp8Cow7EFAwZJBgMPZCXioRseGPVHk8q4rvBj9EkQIcZAbvqotofam8t1_cpYo4a_xRwQD8DveqaYWg/s320/IMG_1605.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
 The picture to the left shows two different LED strips. It's actually pretty hard to photograph them, they are so bright. The strip on the left is a 'Warm White' 1210 strip and the one on the right is a 'Cool White' 5050 strip which is considerably brighter - although it doesn't show that well on the photo. In fact, to see how bright they are just see what they look like compared to my van's headlights - no way could you use them as daylight running lamps! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3xDIqD2YbIqWuQdPXLtheh42Kw1CPs7UO6JDHu6w9BamXbwCgH62PqUfcuAUdaJUBHiM5pS1jJBP63UrGXUUGupAVrIi1OweyIG8_r7VGk1LoxjM5MJsW2-kVJhb7h3DFrPi6h-cyVeU/s1600/IMG00173-20110129-1846.jpg">Click here for photo</a><br />
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 The beauty of these strips is that you don't need any additional hardware to fit them, they are self adhesive so can just be pealed off and stuck. They can but cut with a pair of scissors at 3 LED intervals and rejoined or re soldered with connections for a few pence from eBay - great if you want a continuous loop around the van under cabinates, for example.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFYUQhGo6UpyJl-fKvNYwrpIt4lgdmdJ4Uc1D1oHnDu1mJFj3wNnyzo9tG6TsEfWrjZrha716qjZPT0qg3Kj0mxhN60IUQx5J4b-iNqKdzV4787vpJg24SxwekP06T4kQvp4FSxXUZlA/s1600/yhst-6418191912140_1791_7438761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFYUQhGo6UpyJl-fKvNYwrpIt4lgdmdJ4Uc1D1oHnDu1mJFj3wNnyzo9tG6TsEfWrjZrha716qjZPT0qg3Kj0mxhN60IUQx5J4b-iNqKdzV4787vpJg24SxwekP06T4kQvp4FSxXUZlA/s200/yhst-6418191912140_1791_7438761.jpg" width="200" /></a>One word of warning, however. The LED's must be fitted in a location where you can't catch the light straight on - such as behind a rail or under a work surface or similar. They are so incredibly bright and if you stared into one for too long I have no doubt you might damage your sight!<br />
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I've fitted them in three locations in my van - controlled by a very simple 12v flick switch - the same as what Adria uses for it's down lighters. The switch is available with or without an LED tell tale light.<br />
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Now I've used these in my van hooked up direct to the 12v power source which, on mains hookup, runs at about 13.5v without issue. However, you may want to fit an inexpensive voltage regulator into the circuit - I have added one of these to the link section below.<br />
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<b>The Cab</b><br />
It strikes me as a bit odd that Adria didn't put any lights in the cab, since the main seating area in the Twin are the two cab seats where it's impossible to read as standard. The LED strip fits perfectly behind the join between habitation and cab area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFfauqmprjmkl3wyB-7icIEgHr4a0jcTArLEStLxnxdQa7vmZWALGtqI3hYW01fv51sCj8SJOdihC7XYIoyCX9j2fmmEVmRma1bskyOyb-nCZPA67IE6m_hljA2WJw4C0QsTW7R20Gzw/s1600/IMG_1583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFfauqmprjmkl3wyB-7icIEgHr4a0jcTArLEStLxnxdQa7vmZWALGtqI3hYW01fv51sCj8SJOdihC7XYIoyCX9j2fmmEVmRma1bskyOyb-nCZPA67IE6m_hljA2WJw4C0QsTW7R20Gzw/s200/IMG_1583.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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 <b>Under The Interior Step</b><br />
The switch for this light is located near the door, so you can see what you're doing to take your shoes off and also give some welcome light into what was a dingy dark area near the sliding door.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJnLzw8my-82PptHJEypgdvJeZIwKuiEH-92B3lPAkWDRxE8bYp3Hd4GShsOuamf_C-gy1MXXUEGr2d2o0U1OkaDNI1Le4JFLMiYU19fkIWA_9CduV3g00On8L2pvuODgraEY5NNYsEE/s1600/IMG_1589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJnLzw8my-82PptHJEypgdvJeZIwKuiEH-92B3lPAkWDRxE8bYp3Hd4GShsOuamf_C-gy1MXXUEGr2d2o0U1OkaDNI1Le4JFLMiYU19fkIWA_9CduV3g00On8L2pvuODgraEY5NNYsEE/s200/IMG_1589.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
 <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnsOL6MxGuQRDlHd727-nlTQRXE8o71YEfsB3oLTzqEfyodLYNY8x5ltsAyzlESrc9qiccBieNPRiqORAEFiEij9Xl9Z4eqh2-vgdysfGWr39GxsJgkLKscTu2b6SNFSQq7yIrHc415DE/s1600/IMG_1594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnsOL6MxGuQRDlHd727-nlTQRXE8o71YEfsB3oLTzqEfyodLYNY8x5ltsAyzlESrc9qiccBieNPRiqORAEFiEij9Xl9Z4eqh2-vgdysfGWr39GxsJgkLKscTu2b6SNFSQq7yIrHc415DE/s200/IMG_1594.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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<b>Under the Fixed Bed</b><br />
This was a really dark spot, especially when stood in that area, the strip really helps to bring a sense of warmth into the van.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoqY9DQZzkPR-4dr7e7tFWUraXQVPrnnU6NVTYPGARW_j1_3qMNRqVoF9tVISee0hkUevVJ0TZkwPG8b5ixdJ38BJ6VNe8RMLZECUKTzM4iI7Nmx2tKbn0BeMd0oT2_Uh87Nwcaqtu5Y/s1600/IMG_1608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoqY9DQZzkPR-4dr7e7tFWUraXQVPrnnU6NVTYPGARW_j1_3qMNRqVoF9tVISee0hkUevVJ0TZkwPG8b5ixdJ38BJ6VNe8RMLZECUKTzM4iI7Nmx2tKbn0BeMd0oT2_Uh87Nwcaqtu5Y/s320/IMG_1608.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Something a bit special...</b><br />
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I couldn't resist but order for £10 delivered some remote controlled, colour changing LED from China for in the bed area! It's not arrived yet, but when it does I'll update this entry! <a href="http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320592738434">Link to Product on eBay</a><br />
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<b>Links to Products</b><br />
LED Light Depot on eBay have given me unbeatable service on their 1m 3258 LED strips - delivered within 48hrs on the two orders I've placed with them. Their 1m strips are £6.75 delivered and 2m strips are £12.99 delivered and come with wires already attached. Additional hardware is only required for cutting and rejoining them should you wish to do so:<br />
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<a href="http://shop.ebay.co.uk/led_lights_depot/m.html?_nkw=strip">http://shop.ebay.co.uk/led_lights_depot/m.html?_nkw=strip</a><br />
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Voltage Regulator:<br />
<a href="http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170601476229">http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170601476229</a><br />
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Motorhome Adhesive LED Lighting Strips

I've been experimenting with LED light strips from eBay, these are about £6 for 1m lengths, with great success. The problem in our ...

The Beginning ...

I'm writing this from the passenger seat on our way down to Dover! We set off at around 2.30 this afternoon and it is now 5.30 and we a...

Roof Mounted FM Radio Antenna

Adria Twin Modifications and Improvements

Motorhome Adhesive LED Lighting Strips

The Beginning ...

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