tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91154680569404727792024-03-07T19:19:05.543-08:00The Ultimate Roving HomeI have chosen to embark on a home improvement odyssey, contrary to what many in my life would call better judgment. I'm tired of my stuff, my bills and my taxes. I intend to build an Urban Home inside a mobile vehicle for full-time living right in the heart of Los Angeles. And, I intend to do it with style. Super cool? Watch and learn or watch and laugh. We'll see how it goes.-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-65225305381405297952012-08-03T18:21:00.000-07:002012-08-03T18:21:56.593-07:00A New ChapterI hate to say it, but I must confess. I have changed. Or rather, my life has changed. So now I feel the Roving Home experiment, although still an amazing potential, must officially come to a close. I can't see myself setting aside any sort of substantial quantity of time in the next year or more where I'll be able to get under the skin of this project and devote the energy it needs to make any marked progress.<br />
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I live with my girlfriend now, and we've opened a shop that caters to this new amazing culture of people who appreciate and seek out handmade things. Of course, how could I not jump on that bandwagon, since my love for a good challenge in making something fostered the emergence of the Roving Home. A few of the things I make here in the shop have really taken off, and I'm now filling orders, nationwide. <br />
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I also have come to the realization that I'm more of a social person than I'd ever imagined. The friendships we've cultivated with so many individuals here in town have exceeded, in just a few months, all of the connections I'd made with people in Los Angeles during the last twenty years of my life - something noteworthy. Our workshop bench serves as the proverbial kitchen table, where people often gather in the summer evenings, simply to say hello and chat.<br />
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We donate items for the local high school auction fundraisers, and carry merchandise that helps fund the town Heritage Society. Yes, my life has changed.<br />
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Unfortunately, the van no longer fits with this rebirth. I look back and wonder how happy I would have been in such isolation. I do enjoy my time alone, but to the extent of this kind of isolation, perhaps I would have gone a bit stir crazy. On that note, I am going so far as to part with my van and all the materials used to bring it to this point. For those of you who have read about my adventures and longed to be a part of the build, you might be able to do just that. All I need is to get enough money back to put into a different vehicle. At that point, I'm happy. The solar parts, electrical parts, plumbing parts, water pump, water heater, water tanks, ceiling fans and stereo system are brand new. They've never been used. If anyone might be interested, please let me know. <br />
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Aside from that, life is amazing. I pinch myself knowing that I've created something that's all my own, where I make the rules and where my hard work actually pays off in obvious ways. Thank you for reading. I've greatly appreciated all of the comments I've received from so many people throughout the journey. Part of me is a little disappointed, but life should be interesting, and surely my excitement toward what lies ahead keeps me very much alive and well. -- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-45029703935052712382011-08-09T08:02:00.000-07:002011-08-09T08:02:27.232-07:00In A Holding PatternYep, like a plane on final approach at LAX, I'm indeed in a holding pattern. Sheesh. If it's not one thing, it's another, in this journey called "life." First, it was a giant job offer that took me to Taiwan for eight months. Now, another opportunity has reared it's head -- the call of the retail wild.<br />
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This was brewing before I left the country, so it's not as if I'm taking some crazy plunge into ice cold water. For, my girl and I have had many conversations, made countless discoveries and have forged new relationships with people here in the small hamlet of Claremont, California where I now reside, all in the name of opening our very own shop, right on the main drag of town.<br />
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Needless to say, The Roving Home will sit, as it has for the better part of this year, in storage, only to be taken out to transport materials for our small business. <br />
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The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well, in this "young" lad, and I just can't seem to smother that flame, even if it's gotten me into hot water a few notable times in my life. I just can't help it. As a friend of mine said recently, "Hey, one of them is bound to stick, man. You just gotta keep on trying." <br />
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I would crumble in a desk job, and doing things on one's own is the best drug I know of. Of course, most of you reading this will agree, because the same spirits who have gathered around the campfire to share stories like those about The Roving Home are always the first to cheer on the bettering of one's life.<br />
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So, here I go, head first into the next chapter. Check it out. www.heirloomclaremont.com<br />
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Rob<br />
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-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-7883002511995738002011-06-12T05:20:00.000-07:002011-06-12T06:53:23.231-07:00So, that happened!Whew. I can hardly believe that my eight month job will finally come to a close, a week from tomorrow. Working away from home has its pros and cons, that's for sure. Whereas moving permanently to another land means jumping wholeheartedly into another language and acclimating one's self to a completely new way of life, spending time in a foreign country for a finite period lends itself to a sort of life limbo. Although, the view from my bedroom isn't too shabby. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SJFERy7vh-k/TfSwcEDHoRI/AAAAAAAAA9c/azV0792nwuU/s1600/Photo+on+2011-06-12+at+03.42+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SJFERy7vh-k/TfSwcEDHoRI/AAAAAAAAA9c/azV0792nwuU/s320/Photo+on+2011-06-12+at+03.42+%25232.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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Back home, during my free time, I scheme about bettering my life. I take on home improvement projects. I focus on solving problems. Out here, I have used my personal time to explore a new culture, see some sights, etc. That's definitely not a bad thing, however, sightseeing has a shelf life. I, like most people, thrive on producing. I need to create. That's why I couldn't imagine retiring in front of the TV. But, I don't have a garage out here. I don't have my stuff with which to build more stuff. <br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">So I've tried focusing on what I will do upon my arrival, back in the States. For starters, I'll be rekindling my relationship with my girl, while taking a nice "staycation" with her during the 4th of July weekend. </div><br />
After that, the van doors will open for business! The notion of applying all of my newly found goodies to the build has me giddy with excitement! My only regret is that some of the stores, products and pricing found here in Taiwan just don't exist in California. I've tried to stuff my stockings with van booty as much as possible, and no doubt the moment will arrive when I'll need something I could have readily found out here. I'm already cringing at the thought. Such is life. <br />
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One thing my trip has afforded me is time away. I've had plenty of moments during which I visited the big plan and asked myself all of the pertinent questions once again; things like, "Are you sure that sliding bed frame is a good idea, right on top of the finished wood surface?"<br />
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I knew it wasn't, but I thought I'd solve the problem with furniture pads under the frame work. Upon closer evaluation, it finally occurred to me that the whole thing was just too wonky. The pads would harm the finish, wear out over time, and the bed apparatus needs to be attached, anyway. <br />
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It only took about three months of down time away from The Roving Home to snap out of it and solve this problem, rather than ignoring it and hoping it would go away.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Then, I found these!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1H92aQgE1kQ/TfSojOA9rOI/AAAAAAAAA9M/4YGZuhwSkl0/s1600/drawer+slides.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1H92aQgE1kQ/TfSojOA9rOI/AAAAAAAAA9M/4YGZuhwSkl0/s320/drawer+slides.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Drawer slides, good for 500lbs with a 36" full extension! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A single bed is 39," but 36" will work just fine!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But I was concerned about pulling the bed out into thin air with the weight of two people on it. I wasn't digging that scenario even though I'm proud to say I've lost a few pounds since coming out here. I need to support the end, somehow. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure enough! I'll be ordering up a couple of these. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mP10DruJkPc/TfSphDaj2QI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/PHAGER0biv0/s1600/foot+leveler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mP10DruJkPc/TfSphDaj2QI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/PHAGER0biv0/s320/foot+leveler.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As perfect as that is, the allen wrench deal seems like that would get old in about fifteen seconds. How does one expedite the process of lowering those feet when the bed is pulled out?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CDQje2V8DHc/TfSqd0_T8rI/AAAAAAAAA9U/01XZtwZKXPs/s1600/ratchet+set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CDQje2V8DHc/TfSqd0_T8rI/AAAAAAAAA9U/01XZtwZKXPs/s320/ratchet+set.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Neato!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WPyYDTEPnwo/TfSqjSe08yI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/gyUrHwqlL4Q/s1600/ratchet+set2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WPyYDTEPnwo/TfSqjSe08yI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/gyUrHwqlL4Q/s320/ratchet+set2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just snap on an allen key adapter and away we go!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, if that takes too long, then I'll just keep my little cordless screw gun handy. But, I'm rather fond of the stealth approach. Besides, I'm not changing wheels during an Indy Car pit stop, for chrissakes! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-17276138271863275912011-04-24T00:24:00.000-07:002011-04-24T00:24:54.623-07:00Function?Every step of the way I ask myself one simple question, "What's its function?" What is it I want to achieve with this project? The answer is simple. I want to save money, eliminate the horrible Los Angeles commute and continue to live with all of the creature comforts of modern life.<br />
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I would think all of that sounds fine to just about anyone, but there are setbacks to every plan, no matter how well thought out. In a motorhome, there will always be a finite supply of water available that must be replenished over time. Waste must be contained and disposed of properly. And, of course, one must take care when consuming energy, as the cycle of sustainability has its limitations. But, isn't that okay? Don't animals have to hunt every day for their survival? Don't we have to tend our vegetable gardens often, in order to reap the bounty of wonderful produce?<br />
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But, what if the animal can't find food for a brief period? What if a rain storm wipes out our crop? It happens. We adjust and we survive. "Life is difficult," as quoted from page one of the best selling book, "The Road Less Travelled." Modern society has given us so much in the way of freedom and comfort that if we have to work for any of it we just can't understand why. It makes us mad when the electric company reports a "brown out," and especially mad when we're going to be penalized for water use during a drought. But that's what we get when we rely on others to do things for us. We become dependent. My goal is to greatly reduce that dependency. And, I'm not afraid to pick up the slack and do a little extra life work. <br />
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So, I've addressed how the vehicle should look on the outside, in order to disappear in the city. Of course, there will be constant considerations with respect to parking, but that's fine. The rabbit must operate on heightened awareness at all times to avoid peril. Perhaps I'm being too dramatic, but you get the gist. The Roving Home serves as a life tool with which I can live in the great outdoors, but in the heart of a civilized world. <br />
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My girl and I adore cities. There, I said it. I know that goes against everything generally associated with RV life, but don't get me wrong. Spending a night at 8,000 FT above sea level, I will always gaze with awe into the remarkable expanse of a starry sky, fireside, inspired by the beauty of nature itself. But I also enjoy a lovingly prepared, baked lasagna with a glass of red wine and the groove of a jazz tune, live from the band on stage. I keep threatening to take my girl to the symphony - perhaps when I get back home.<br />
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So, I've got all of the basics handled, but what if I can't park close enough to where I'd like to ultimately crash for the night? Well, I could walk. But what if walking will take too long? I could take public transpo -- not always available. How 'bout a cab? Good option for cities, but sometimes I want a little more freedom to head off the beaten path without feeling stranded and without having to call someone for every trip. <br />
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How 'bout a dingy? Boats have them. They're the little inflatable rafts with outboard motors that you'll see tied to the back. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bRmlARmDykE/TbOFxZcVK0I/AAAAAAAAA64/A0Q7b8x3RYU/s1600/dingy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bRmlARmDykE/TbOFxZcVK0I/AAAAAAAAA64/A0Q7b8x3RYU/s320/dingy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I need a dingy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One thing I absolutely will not do is tow a car. I already have a drivable vehicle, so I don't need two. Then I thought about the scooter on some sort of rack on the back, but that just says, "Someone lives here!" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3RuOydyLP7E/TbOqv7I40fI/AAAAAAAAA68/nIZdjLiNi58/s1600/CamperBikeRack-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3RuOydyLP7E/TbOqv7I40fI/AAAAAAAAA68/nIZdjLiNi58/s320/CamperBikeRack-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Same with bicycles that are stored outside of the vehicle. Kind of feels like the "Grapes of Wrath," packing up all of one's worldly possessions and moving to find a better life. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-voRx3x36ovU/TbOrQRwUI8I/AAAAAAAAA7A/dcwFsl602iQ/s1600/Bike+rack+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-voRx3x36ovU/TbOrQRwUI8I/AAAAAAAAA7A/dcwFsl602iQ/s1600/Bike+rack+1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not to mention the vulnerability to thievery.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The package needs to be tight!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Since the inception of The Roving Home, the notion of storing my "dingy" inside of the vehicle, away from the elements and prying eyes, has proven to be quite the hurdle. The dingy completes the "life tool" aspect of The Roving Home, and a place for it must be realized. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Surfing the net for answers, I happened upon the website for a bicycle manufacturer, Dahon, an innovator of folding bikes. "Hm, that's interesting." I dug further - cost, $1,200. Yikes! Now, this was for the high and mighty "Urban Performance" line of folding bikes, models with full suspension and with names like "Jetstream" and "Speed." Sexy! Available only through catalog order, they weren't in the cards.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cut To: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A year later, I'm in Taiwan, bicycle capital of the world. Now, this no joke. Look at these things.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YkMS7k1vHDs/TbOv_jgsKPI/AAAAAAAAA7E/OZxoEJ6ZZ2A/s1600/DSCN1103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YkMS7k1vHDs/TbOv_jgsKPI/AAAAAAAAA7E/OZxoEJ6ZZ2A/s320/DSCN1103.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGdlR1-DgAE/TbOwP-SJMII/AAAAAAAAA7I/iXSzT2HVRbE/s1600/DSCN1106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGdlR1-DgAE/TbOwP-SJMII/AAAAAAAAA7I/iXSzT2HVRbE/s320/DSCN1106.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yes, that SWISSBIKE is a folder.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-APE5njMIS0E/TbOwhH4COEI/AAAAAAAAA7M/tu_qbYYNAeA/s1600/DSCN1107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-APE5njMIS0E/TbOwhH4COEI/AAAAAAAAA7M/tu_qbYYNAeA/s320/DSCN1107.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, how about that for your toddler?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And below, the ultimate folder. But, not for The Ultimate Roving Home. Seemed a bit cheap.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ttUqJcS15u4/TbOw7aRC4xI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/CYoyVXI6aAg/s1600/DSCN1104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ttUqJcS15u4/TbOw7aRC4xI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/CYoyVXI6aAg/s320/DSCN1104.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, finally...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CKHXPcPW6e8/TbOxVf5gHWI/AAAAAAAAA7U/pLhhi9Wzo1E/s1600/DSCN1105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CKHXPcPW6e8/TbOxVf5gHWI/AAAAAAAAA7U/pLhhi9Wzo1E/s320/DSCN1105.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Serious business. These are not your garden variety dime store souvenir "Made in Taiwan" trinkets. This is the real deal and very high quality. And the punchline to it all? Many of them are roughly half the asking price for the same model in the U.S. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, now my "wheels were spinning." Does Dahon sell in Taiwan? After a little armchair legwork via the Internet I discovered half dozen outlets for Dahon bicycles in the capital city of Taipei. Off I went, in search of the elusive Jetstream P8. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peggy Wu, my office assistant, set me up with a map full of stickies loaded with addresses and arrows, so any cab driver could get me to where I needed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AD_fjgCHsPA/TbOy2x1xjeI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/fPpFXtXkYW8/s1600/DSCN1083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AD_fjgCHsPA/TbOy2x1xjeI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/fPpFXtXkYW8/s320/DSCN1083.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My first mission was to get to the Taipei main train station via the High Speed Rail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZeI17KMPl4/TbOzkREtnqI/AAAAAAAAA7c/Q_wROcK2jG8/s1600/DSCN1078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yZeI17KMPl4/TbOzkREtnqI/AAAAAAAAA7c/Q_wROcK2jG8/s320/DSCN1078.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwCrcVK7bn0/TbO0c8MiEmI/AAAAAAAAA7g/YItF-ZUzGlA/s1600/DSCN1085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hwCrcVK7bn0/TbO0c8MiEmI/AAAAAAAAA7g/YItF-ZUzGlA/s320/DSCN1085.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The High Speed Rail Station</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kmX-EzWDj-I/TbO0rFz4w8I/AAAAAAAAA7k/BhUgmu8hvpY/s1600/DSCN1087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kmX-EzWDj-I/TbO0rFz4w8I/AAAAAAAAA7k/BhUgmu8hvpY/s320/DSCN1087.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XNIFSSSCjnc/TbO1AdfxMoI/AAAAAAAAA7o/m33Fjj_rpsE/s1600/DSCN1090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XNIFSSSCjnc/TbO1AdfxMoI/AAAAAAAAA7o/m33Fjj_rpsE/s320/DSCN1090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Good thing the sign switches from Mandarin to English! Whew.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nE8xo2-SfhM/TbO1TNUK5mI/AAAAAAAAA7s/7WxQ-1_l7qc/s1600/DSCN1126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nE8xo2-SfhM/TbO1TNUK5mI/AAAAAAAAA7s/7WxQ-1_l7qc/s320/DSCN1126.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not too shabby!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZievIjCGLEQ/TbO1iP7kQAI/AAAAAAAAA7w/5hArKPTTv8M/s1600/DSCN1124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZievIjCGLEQ/TbO1iP7kQAI/AAAAAAAAA7w/5hArKPTTv8M/s320/DSCN1124.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Taiwan countryside at 290 KPH (180MPH)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0lo7wwqJazY/TbO7ssGGHVI/AAAAAAAAA70/P9louDTxPPQ/s1600/DSCN1112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0lo7wwqJazY/TbO7ssGGHVI/AAAAAAAAA70/P9louDTxPPQ/s320/DSCN1112.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Welcome to Taipei, a bustling metropolis...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--92sfgTjiuM/TbO8Dl3iuJI/AAAAAAAAA74/NbaYeF428jg/s1600/DSCN1109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--92sfgTjiuM/TbO8Dl3iuJI/AAAAAAAAA74/NbaYeF428jg/s320/DSCN1109.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...with cool side streets and avenues. And, then, on to the local train for a trip way up north to the burbs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I5Btr9N3WFk/TbO8YmLDBDI/AAAAAAAAA78/Ne4tqG8NKvM/s1600/DSCN1113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I5Btr9N3WFk/TbO8YmLDBDI/AAAAAAAAA78/Ne4tqG8NKvM/s320/DSCN1113.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnizUk9DlS4/TbO82fqkc9I/AAAAAAAAA8A/9xnO5K9xydE/s1600/DSCN1115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnizUk9DlS4/TbO82fqkc9I/AAAAAAAAA8A/9xnO5K9xydE/s320/DSCN1115.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, there it was, right out of the box, a Dahon Jetstream P8, at a little neighborhood bike shop. The owner lives behind the shop and his whole family is there with him on the weekends. His 4 year old daughter asked me in flawless English, "Do you speak Chinese?" I was floored. He didn't speak that much and she didn't know very many phrases, but before I left she asked if I'd stay and play with her and her sister. It was quite charming. I was flattered! Heck, I don't even speak her language!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_o9-xOzGIMA/TbO9qVvq3fI/AAAAAAAAA8E/az_sVFq163I/s1600/DSCN1118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_o9-xOzGIMA/TbO9qVvq3fI/AAAAAAAAA8E/az_sVFq163I/s320/DSCN1118.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, voila! Here's my new acquisition beside the riverfront bike path that stretches from the burbs, heading south into town. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D9gHqWp1nXw/TbO-Wql2c1I/AAAAAAAAA8I/ho8ygLSV9kA/s1600/DSCN1119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D9gHqWp1nXw/TbO-Wql2c1I/AAAAAAAAA8I/ho8ygLSV9kA/s320/DSCN1119.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, it's a full suspension, 8 speed folder with a Shimano derailleur and a Sram trigger shift -- all quality components.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05VsV9lILPQ/TbO_MdzbSRI/AAAAAAAAA8M/CkCBqKZzDuo/s1600/DSCN1128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05VsV9lILPQ/TbO_MdzbSRI/AAAAAAAAA8M/CkCBqKZzDuo/s320/DSCN1128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Break it down...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjWCojE5f9c/TbO_cJb1D5I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/7jU2LOuxEAY/s1600/DSCN1127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TjWCojE5f9c/TbO_cJb1D5I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/7jU2LOuxEAY/s320/DSCN1127.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...bag it up and stick it on the train. A couple of these will go nicely in a custom drawer beneath the bed of The Roving Home, accessible from the rear of the van. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PUFLCVTcQpM/TbO_4C05QyI/AAAAAAAAA8U/QWdZEFxBkeY/s1600/DSCN1121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PUFLCVTcQpM/TbO_4C05QyI/AAAAAAAAA8U/QWdZEFxBkeY/s320/DSCN1121.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">INDESTRUCTIBLE! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, that's a Roving Home Exclusive. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-76104104552582889452011-04-02T06:14:00.000-07:002011-04-02T06:14:35.036-07:00The Roving Home World Tour - "Thank You, Taiwan!"Determined to keep this blog pure and true, I have refrained from posting general nonsense about my stay, here in Taiwan. However, not too long after my arrival, I suspected that something or someone must have seen to it that I spend time here before sealing up the walls of my van. This place rocks!<br />
<br />
Wandering through the markets of Taichung, the city I've called home since November, I have feasted my eyes on the most wonderful and amazing gadgetry and gizmos for 12volt systems. First of all, LED is king on this island, with fluorescent tailing at a close "second." <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">This market is a long alley loaded with vendors of anything and everything you can imagine in the world of tools and hardware. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZlQiN6Acyw/TZcLi_RGVyI/AAAAAAAAA5o/YxcSVDf95Jo/s1600/DSCN0965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZlQiN6Acyw/TZcLi_RGVyI/AAAAAAAAA5o/YxcSVDf95Jo/s320/DSCN0965.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
There's the spring guy, yes, just springs. There's the wire guy, the tool guy, the pulleys and chain shop, "Nuts And Bolts Are Us," and my favorite, the chicken lady, where you can choose your live bird and bring it home ready to cook. By the way, I wouldn't recommend watching the process of slaughtering a chicken, for if you're not inclined already, you may turn to the ways of a vegetarian. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">My Bounty</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xiDh2PLipH8/TZcMmWZKOZI/AAAAAAAAA5s/D1cM-HJeQNo/s1600/DSCN1039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xiDh2PLipH8/TZcMmWZKOZI/AAAAAAAAA5s/D1cM-HJeQNo/s320/DSCN1039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a momentary switch. When activated, it will either close the circuit or open it, depending upon how you wire the screws on the back side. I searched for something like this, back home, to no avail. The Internet had slim pickings as well, but low and behold, the market is full of these babies. They're great for sliding doors and cabinets. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Once that spring is depressed, the switch will react. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nXGylTVAsIY/TZcNTRPhVwI/AAAAAAAAA5w/QFGC7if-O5o/s1600/DSCN1041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nXGylTVAsIY/TZcNTRPhVwI/AAAAAAAAA5w/QFGC7if-O5o/s320/DSCN1041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another variation</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nnUP0tfDxY8/TZcNjvzAiLI/AAAAAAAAA50/JSwBH8nZY-A/s1600/DSCN1044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nnUP0tfDxY8/TZcNjvzAiLI/AAAAAAAAA50/JSwBH8nZY-A/s320/DSCN1044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, it just goes on. I'll be placing these behind every cabinet door in The Roving Home - energy efficient task lighting at it's best. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I open a cabinet, a light inside will pop on. No need for flipping switches in the dark, and energy conservation will be as tight as possible. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, on to the electronics district! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhLNxlfT3I4/TZcPNE3wSVI/AAAAAAAAA54/OGTeBeoVPrU/s1600/DSCN0903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhLNxlfT3I4/TZcPNE3wSVI/AAAAAAAAA54/OGTeBeoVPrU/s320/DSCN0903.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You're looking at four shelves of electronic meters. I've never seen such a gathering!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LVU1BgA15zw/TZcP5sM3x_I/AAAAAAAAA58/Gv5txod7CwI/s1600/DSCN0902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LVU1BgA15zw/TZcP5sM3x_I/AAAAAAAAA58/Gv5txod7CwI/s320/DSCN0902.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These stores carry every electrical switch imaginable. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qMXnV2LOeJg/TZcRcqH6_wI/AAAAAAAAA6A/W17N9C_GgjQ/s1600/DSCN1047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qMXnV2LOeJg/TZcRcqH6_wI/AAAAAAAAA6A/W17N9C_GgjQ/s320/DSCN1047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I found these for around 50 cents a piece. Back home, if I were lucky enough to track these down, they'd be about 3 bucks. Believe it or not, these aren't readily available at Radio Shack or Frys or Auto Zone in the staggering quantities you can find, here - bins of them in aisle after aisle within the stores. All this stuff is designed for use in the high tech consumer toys they make here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, if you remember way back during the infancy of my grand van-building scheme, I manufactured a wall sconce out of LED ribbon, some wood and plexiglass.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZhb11rahig/TZcTUTpr1vI/AAAAAAAAA6I/_YAmvamCsAk/s1600/wall+sconce+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZhb11rahig/TZcTUTpr1vI/AAAAAAAAA6I/_YAmvamCsAk/s320/wall+sconce+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hE5YjLwpsjA/TZcTQY8ZLZI/AAAAAAAAA6E/tobHq8Xgq0k/s1600/wall+sconce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hE5YjLwpsjA/TZcTQY8ZLZI/AAAAAAAAA6E/tobHq8Xgq0k/s320/wall+sconce.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Once again, I tried to find some nice architectural supports that would hold that plexiglass away from the wood with a finished look. I've seen exactly what I want, featured in glass signage in building lobbies, all over the place. But to find those little chrome supports is like finding a needle in a haystack. And, I couldn't get them online, either. They're some kind of coveted item that only designers get access to. So, I had to use threaded bolts and some dumb looking dome hex caps from Home Depot that you see in the corners of the light fixture, pictured above. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Badda bing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oKtxuMUDEH4/TZcUsTLfkcI/AAAAAAAAA6M/6SWIlRldjrM/s1600/DSCN1035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oKtxuMUDEH4/TZcUsTLfkcI/AAAAAAAAA6M/6SWIlRldjrM/s320/DSCN1035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Picked them up in four different sizes, just in case!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And now, the moment you've all been waiting for...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the greatest challenges of this whole thing, for me, has been the selection and proper installation of lighting fixtures. Illumination can make or break any architectural creation, no matter how big or small, because it sets the mood and the comfort level, especially in an environment that's going to be dark most of the time. I need the lighting to be right! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, after much testing and hoopla surrounding my previous lighting selection, I'm proud to say that none of that is going to work! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yep, I'm ditching, all of my previously purchased ceiling fixtures. I'll probably be offering them for sale, deeply discounted, very soon. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">None of it will suit my purpose as well as what I've found, right off the shelf, at Home Depot, Taiwan. I almost wept when I saw it. My translator couldn't care less, so I was on my own, standing there in the middle of a store with people who can't understand a word I was saying. But, then again, none of what I was saying would be discernible to an English speaker because my words were smothered beneath sobs of joy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9RpgcsFRD6M/TZcXO9g10OI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/_fhl0OLc4ds/s1600/DSCN1049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9RpgcsFRD6M/TZcXO9g10OI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/_fhl0OLc4ds/s320/DSCN1049.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I proudly introduce to you the 12 volt, 5 watt, pivoting eye, recessed ceiling light fixture complete with a frosted lens that focuses the beam while offering a nice tapered "fall off" of light at a most pleasing color temperature of 3000k, and has a structural depth of a conveniently compact 1.5 inches !!!! Yes, there is a God, ladies and gentlemen!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_7SQuHnVwa4/TZcXxuYT-OI/AAAAAAAAA6U/X_9_jk_FmOQ/s1600/DSCN1051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_7SQuHnVwa4/TZcXxuYT-OI/AAAAAAAAA6U/X_9_jk_FmOQ/s320/DSCN1051.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYIIG489jjs/TZcbdX2Qo0I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/TGKZMSutK3w/s1600/DSCN1052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYIIG489jjs/TZcbdX2Qo0I/AAAAAAAAA6Y/TGKZMSutK3w/s320/DSCN1052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I could pinch myself! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As a matter of fact, these fixtures might just be too bright. Imagine that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Excuse me? Never fear! Look at what Taiwan has to offer in a 12 volt LED dimmer switch! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YCrFuI9YKAM/TZcb6Rn3hDI/AAAAAAAAA6c/DOx7USaiWp0/s1600/DSCN1037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YCrFuI9YKAM/TZcb6Rn3hDI/AAAAAAAAA6c/DOx7USaiWp0/s320/DSCN1037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just over six bucks! Ridiculous. Bought eight of those, too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The fun will be over in June, when The Roving Home assembly line kicks back into gear. My girl and I have made the laundry list of travel locales several pages long, already. Sheesh, I'm going to have to get crackin' fast so we can have a proper summer vacation!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-20190157430855914792010-10-01T18:42:00.000-07:002010-10-01T18:42:53.462-07:00Wiring is complete!Whew! Boy, that took longer than expected. But, it's pretty sweet. I've finished all of the connections necessary to install my face plates and outlets. Basically, I could hook up a battery, tomorrow, and see how it all works. <br />
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<div align="center">The electric closet</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaJT0mY8II/AAAAAAAAA2s/hmU2vjdtF2A/s320/closet,+complete.jpg" width="212" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, that's it. Everything I need for the electric infrastructure is there. To the left, you can see the openings where my Iport and stereo will go. I also have to add one 12 volt accessory outlet for the Iport to power the Ipod. But, that's easy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is the D.C. circuitry. Getting that all squared away was tedious but not too difficult. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaKYqLcI8I/AAAAAAAAA2w/pjP-KYTJB7g/s1600/dc+circuits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaKYqLcI8I/AAAAAAAAA2w/pjP-KYTJB7g/s320/dc+circuits.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">I like to keep things super clean and tidy, so if there are any problems, I can go through it and find out where the trouble is. It's the right way to work. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">And, I added all of the clips necessary to attach the face plates and LED lights.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaKwvR3T2I/AAAAAAAAA20/Zi41_CsOsKQ/s1600/wall+switch+with+clips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaKwvR3T2I/AAAAAAAAA20/Zi41_CsOsKQ/s320/wall+switch+with+clips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaK3laPUNI/AAAAAAAAA24/5YN5sdzMuBI/s1600/wall+switch+with+clips+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaK3laPUNI/AAAAAAAAA24/5YN5sdzMuBI/s320/wall+switch+with+clips+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">And, here's what the ceiling boxes look like.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaLCVj5EUI/AAAAAAAAA28/5FNKq-s5Ddc/s1600/ceiling+fixture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKaLCVj5EUI/AAAAAAAAA28/5FNKq-s5Ddc/s320/ceiling+fixture.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I know it's all probably super boring, but to work it all out and to keep it clean and organized is quite the project. I'm glad it's over and I have a tremendous amount of satisfaction at having completed that part of the Roving Home. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I forgot to call the plastic company, today. The guy said my water tanks would be ready in a week. They've probably been sitting there, all this time, and now I'll have to wait before getting them, because my job requires me to be in L.A. every day, for the next couple of weeks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oh well. It wasn't in the stars to finish this before my big job. I'll be in Taiwan until June of next year. It's going to be an amazing experience, but I'm half excited to go, mainly because I won't be seeing my girl, but also because I've invested all of this time, so far, to try and get the Roving Home completed before leaving, and now it just won't happen. If I hadn't been called to work for two straight weeks prior to my departure, I think I may have had a chance. But, I fear that this will be my last post of any substance with respect to the Roving Home. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If anything changes, I'll let you know. Come June, this blog will be up and running again, full speed, ahead. I will dust off the table saw, lube up the drill press, back the rig into the driveway and hit it hard for about 3 weeks. After that, it's all leisure time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thanks for all of the comments and contribution to my blog. If it weren't for a few people suggesting that I should set up a blog for this project, I never would have considered it. But, I'm really glad I did. The experience has been amazing and will serve as the ultimate scrap book for the Ultimate Roving Home. </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-33735235500100590692010-09-29T17:09:00.000-07:002010-09-29T17:09:33.179-07:00Avoiding certain tragedy!<div style="text-align: center;">In more ways than one, I seemed to avert what could have resulted in a couple of devastating consequences. </div><br />
First, and most importantly, was my realization that all it would take is a second wire to get the amperage I need from my 12 volt wall outlets. Now, I know that you're just about on the edge of your seat, right this very moment. So, just settle in, grab a cup o' joe and let your mind take you to amazing places.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">The 12 volt wall outlet</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPKLitqbvI/AAAAAAAAA10/od9y24i91fU/s1600/12+volt+outlet+on+wood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPKLitqbvI/AAAAAAAAA10/od9y24i91fU/s320/12+volt+outlet+on+wood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For the life of me, I haven't been able to find out just how many amps these things are good for. As you know, at 12 volts, a 20 amp receptacle would enable you to plug in an item worth approximately 200 watts. Not a lot of power, there, but then again, all I really need to plug in are chargers of various sorts, perhaps a reading light, or maybe a small appliance. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, I still couldn't find out, on the Internet or through any company specs, what the amperage rating of these things are. So, I punted, and ran enough wiring for 10amps. I figured 10amps worth of power would still be fine, but after considering what 10amps will allow me, I started to second guess myself. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the wire I'd need to run for 20amps of power.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPLIF21gNI/AAAAAAAAA14/uLMH-xG4rMs/s1600/12+3+sjo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPLIF21gNI/AAAAAAAAA14/uLMH-xG4rMs/s320/12+3+sjo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">That's one fat piece of 12 gauge wire. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Definitely hard to conceal, but I am using it for the A.C. outlets powered by the inverter. And, there are only 4 of them. That wire is good for 20amps. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">And, this is the 10amp 16 gauge wire that I'm running for all of the lighting.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPLi3CE_9I/AAAAAAAAA18/xQF_poBNeXw/s1600/red+black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPLi3CE_9I/AAAAAAAAA18/xQF_poBNeXw/s320/red+black.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What's great about this wire is that it's red/black and enclosed in an outer sleeve. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I was really skeptical about running merely a standard two wire low voltage set up with all of the metallic insulation everywhere.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPMBIz4SqI/AAAAAAAAA2A/z2ECN2ITaUU/s1600/two+wire+black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPMBIz4SqI/AAAAAAAAA2A/z2ECN2ITaUU/s320/two+wire+black.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This black wire is what you'd find for sprinklers and outdoor low voltage lighting. It's a two wire system, no outer sleeve, and with the positive and negative side distinguished only by a slight ridge on one of those black rubber sleeves -- a total pain in the butt to manage without the color delineation. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Yet, I was about to do that anyway, until I found that awesome two wire red/black stuff.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div align="center">The thing about the red/black stuff is that it's marketed as "speaker wire," so it was in a different section of the electrical department. Luckily, I stumbled upon it. It's the same as the standard romex you'd find in home wiring, but lower amperage and stranded. Stranded wire is important in an environment with lots of vibration. And, flexibility is key. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">10amps is fine for all of my lighting circuits and it's very manageable wire to work with.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPPqeTcZ6I/AAAAAAAAA2E/9EuTqK3zS7A/s1600/holding+wire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPPqeTcZ6I/AAAAAAAAA2E/9EuTqK3zS7A/s320/holding+wire.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPP4sEPZXI/AAAAAAAAA2I/zLYf0SdGS5Q/s1600/wire+through+hole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPP4sEPZXI/AAAAAAAAA2I/zLYf0SdGS5Q/s320/wire+through+hole.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, I still didnt' know the value of my 12 volt receptacles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Until...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was sitting in my girl's car, looking at the 12 volt accessory plug in the dash, the same way I have a million times, before.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPQOH2dR-I/AAAAAAAAA2M/JS3iM8COYn8/s1600/12+volt+in+car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPQOH2dR-I/AAAAAAAAA2M/JS3iM8COYn8/s320/12+volt+in+car.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I noticed some writing on the front of that cap, there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, I flipped it up...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPQc7t4N2I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/JeHfnr2u26M/s1600/12+volt+cap+closed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPQc7t4N2I/AAAAAAAAA2Q/JeHfnr2u26M/s320/12+volt+cap+closed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, would you look at that???!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, I had to rethink my 10amp wiring. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPQzlhpoKI/AAAAAAAAA2U/DleulL6VPNY/s1600/junction+box+with+wiring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPQzlhpoKI/AAAAAAAAA2U/DleulL6VPNY/s320/junction+box+with+wiring.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's a lot of wiring. But, still not that big of a deal. I'll just run another length of the 10amp stuff for each 12 volt accessory socket.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRDK34HQI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/jH5Snyztmpc/s1600/12+v+outlet+wired.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRDK34HQI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/jH5Snyztmpc/s320/12+v+outlet+wired.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">The electricity will find its balance and two 10amp wires connected into the same clip will work as one 20amp. Plus, the size is still slimmer than that fat black stuff that's good for 20amps. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRZtJTyLI/AAAAAAAAA2c/KJsmcxRbBTI/s1600/fan+white+wire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRZtJTyLI/AAAAAAAAA2c/KJsmcxRbBTI/s320/fan+white+wire.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">I just need to double up an end like that. I'll be using two wires instead of that one, for my addition to the 12 volt receptacles...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRkP7NEfI/AAAAAAAAA2g/RlnNWVNEOIU/s1600/clips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRkP7NEfI/AAAAAAAAA2g/RlnNWVNEOIU/s320/clips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">Add these clips...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRsxo48-I/AAAAAAAAA2k/-f2V5VyIoj8/s1600/clips+attached.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPRsxo48-I/AAAAAAAAA2k/-f2V5VyIoj8/s320/clips+attached.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, there you go. My new additions will look the same as that connection, but with two wires sticking into the back side of those clips, rather than the one wire. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm glad I made the discovery of that 20amp outlet in the car. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, if it hadn't been for the fact that I jumped out of the back of the van, landing on this stack of wood...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPSOvV2I6I/AAAAAAAAA2o/jaNGYQidZBw/s1600/lumber+stack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKPSOvV2I6I/AAAAAAAAA2o/jaNGYQidZBw/s320/lumber+stack.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">twisting my ankle...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">nearly breaking it...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, waiting in the car for my girl to run in and get a bag of ice post x-rays ( which were negative for any damage), I would have never noticed the 20amp accessory cover! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sweet!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, twenty-four hours later, I can almost walk without a limp. Production should be up and running tomorrow morning! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div align="center"></div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-13299434999238591942010-09-26T21:37:00.000-07:002010-09-26T21:42:30.392-07:00Inch by inch...Whew! <br />
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That's about all I can utter, right now. It's 9pm, I'm beat tired, and I feel as if I'm falling behind, every day. I know that it's all going to be just fine, no matter what happens. But, I'd feel a lot better taking off for a long spell out of town if I could just close the door on this portion of my journey. <br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong. Good times and plenty of blog posts will highlight a life with the Roving Home. I can hardly wait. <br />
<br />
<div align="center">So.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I shorted myself on some wiring for the electrical closet and had to head back out to West Marine. Sunday mornings aren't so bad here in southern California, so I dashed over in pretty good time. But, would you believe, my quick run for a few finishing parts cost me half of what I spent on Friday? Good Lord! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">B.O.A.T.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Break Out Another Thousand</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Whatever. I can't avoid it and it has to be done. I keep having to remind myself of all the rent/mortgage I'll be saving over the next couple of years. Yes, two years. The investment won't be worth anything if I drop out any earlier. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But, after completing the wiring , I contemplated just what the whole process of removing and reassembling everything to the board would entail. I just couldn't bear it. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So, I carefully tipped up the board, eased it into the van, slid it over to the closet and lifted it up on end. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAc8BLdJwI/AAAAAAAAA1c/TyGcHBznz5c/s1600/closet+wall+piece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAc8BLdJwI/AAAAAAAAA1c/TyGcHBznz5c/s320/closet+wall+piece.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">So far, so good!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAdHkzIKkI/AAAAAAAAA1g/5kla0KxWuOI/s1600/backing+in+place.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAdHkzIKkI/AAAAAAAAA1g/5kla0KxWuOI/s320/backing+in+place.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I just carefully pushed it against the wall and screwed it in. That saved me about 2 hours of stupidity. Much better. Now, can you see that little hand drawn black circle just below the white inverter box? That was the original placement for the exterior A.C. power hook up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Obviously, things changed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I slid the receptacle placement over, broke out the trusty hole saw, and went to town on the wall of the van. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div align="center">Not too intrusive. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAd-hYgo6I/AAAAAAAAA1o/Tj41HYZhNK4/s1600/receptacle+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAd-hYgo6I/AAAAAAAAA1o/Tj41HYZhNK4/s320/receptacle+close+up.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<div align="center">I spent the rest of the day going back to Home Depot to correct my errors in conduit selection. I need a lot of room for all of the wiring to come down from the ceiling, so I had to expand the diameter and re-drill the ceiling holes, etc etc. Kind of a bummer, but once again, my mind is thinking about a billion things at once, so by the time I get right to the exact task at hand, I've certainly left a bit of the mystery unsolved. </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">It's all good now!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAevyexYKI/AAAAAAAAA1s/7ze9QWc4fLs/s1600/one+last+thing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TKAevyexYKI/AAAAAAAAA1s/7ze9QWc4fLs/s320/one+last+thing.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">And, you can see the hole for the receptacle that I drilled through. Tomorrow, the agenda calls for the wiring of the solar panel, lighting and accessories.<br />
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I got to make some progress! </div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-52465493691406218042010-09-25T17:54:00.000-07:002010-09-25T17:54:28.889-07:00PHASE II -- UpdateI'm about to head out for a night on the town with my best girl ( she'll laugh at that ) and a buddy of mine, but here is the progress I've made, today. And, to think, I was planning on getting this wiring layout done in a couple of hours. It's taken me nearly all day and I'm still short a couple of wires. Imagine that! <br />
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<div align="center">Enjoy!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6Xrd2fHnI/AAAAAAAAA1M/-p_8NkLDZI8/s1600/the+layout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6Xrd2fHnI/AAAAAAAAA1M/-p_8NkLDZI8/s320/the+layout.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was the fantasy spacing, in order to give the work space room for servicing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">However...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6YC_2buzI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/1QSCjUEpsHQ/s1600/layout+with+wiring+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6YC_2buzI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/1QSCjUEpsHQ/s320/layout+with+wiring+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is what really happened. Not too much of a change. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm so OCD about this stuff that it pains me to see that black wire crossing over the red one in the background. But, I just couldn't avoid it. I think it's coming out pretty cool, though.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6YlOBMYdI/AAAAAAAAA1U/kAv-y8watVc/s1600/wiring+closeup+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6YlOBMYdI/AAAAAAAAA1U/kAv-y8watVc/s320/wiring+closeup+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The right tool gets the job done...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6Y7dODhVI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/8AFCg75kHD8/s1600/the+drill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ6Y7dODhVI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/8AFCg75kHD8/s320/the+drill.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Off to sip some Belgian Ale and to hear some great music. </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-63314574531719678002010-09-25T09:12:00.000-07:002010-09-25T09:13:21.839-07:00PHASE II -- ElectricalThe infrastructure is complete. Aside from the water tanks, which I ordered from a shop three miles from my house (imagine that), the framework is ready for the electrical install. I think I broke the budget for that line item on my spread sheet, this afternoon. After taking a deep breath, I handed my credit card across the counter to the friendly girl at West Marine. But, the system will be top notch.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Here's what I got!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Starting with the A.C. inlet...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ1VPg3VA5I/AAAAAAAAA0M/6UH5TqL5nBQ/s1600/AC+inlet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ1VPg3VA5I/AAAAAAAAA0M/6UH5TqL5nBQ/s320/AC+inlet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ1VUHFGkbI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/HWFGGBOzatc/s1600/AC+inlet+closed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ1VUHFGkbI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/HWFGGBOzatc/s320/AC+inlet+closed.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">That is one buff receptacle, and not something you'd find at Camping World.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Here are the 60amp fuses that protect the charge controller from both sides. I had no idea they came in the bayonet type that you'd find in your car's fuse block. They're just much BIGGER!</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4PGDxp9rI/AAAAAAAAA0U/uMakNycuo30/s1600/bayonet+fuse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4PGDxp9rI/AAAAAAAAA0U/uMakNycuo30/s320/bayonet+fuse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, that fuse fits nicely right in its own block! Gotta love that!</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4PYcWSVKI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/WgwKrurpW54/s1600/fuse+in+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4PYcWSVKI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/WgwKrurpW54/s320/fuse+in+block.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For the inverter fuse, I needed a 100amp unit! Wow. It just amazes me sometimes how much larger everything becomes at 12 volts. But West Marine had an answer for me, there, too.</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4QHG5iDzI/AAAAAAAAA0c/UvZ-AKv14RM/s1600/100amp+fuse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4QHG5iDzI/AAAAAAAAA0c/UvZ-AKv14RM/s320/100amp+fuse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The fuse rests right on top of those two bolts...</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4QTfFnz3I/AAAAAAAAA0g/JJPf0MMwku8/s1600/100amp+fuse+in+place.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4QTfFnz3I/AAAAAAAAA0g/JJPf0MMwku8/s320/100amp+fuse+in+place.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div align="center">...and a plastic case snaps into place for your safety and mine.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Cool stuff.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">Which brings me to the 12 volt distribution block. </div><div align="center"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4Q1H8R-HI/AAAAAAAAA0k/UZgnMScVdd0/s1600/fuse+block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4Q1H8R-HI/AAAAAAAAA0k/UZgnMScVdd0/s320/fuse+block.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center">It has its own protective cover, as well. </div><div align="center"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4RI5UqQnI/AAAAAAAAA0o/-3e3qC1MpQU/s1600/fuse+block+covered.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4RI5UqQnI/AAAAAAAAA0o/-3e3qC1MpQU/s320/fuse+block+covered.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, this is one of the most amazing things. I definitely have never seen one of these. I'm not sure how long they've been around, but they're really cool. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">250 amps of protection is what I'll need, should the batteries begin to completely melt down -- the disaster fuse.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4R6I2rwXI/AAAAAAAAA0s/RBVf53Oc7m4/s1600/250amp+fuse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4R6I2rwXI/AAAAAAAAA0s/RBVf53Oc7m4/s320/250amp+fuse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It slips over the terminal post...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4SGdrmjtI/AAAAAAAAA0w/tW96GLZ--1I/s1600/disaster+fuse+mount.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4SGdrmjtI/AAAAAAAAA0w/tW96GLZ--1I/s320/disaster+fuse+mount.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...and that whole metal bar slides right down over the battery terminal. Then I'll continue my circuit by dropping a wire over the top of that terminal post and screwing that down.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I read in an electrical book that the disaster fuse should actually be placed between the battery and the chassis on the negative side -- not what you would intuitively consider right off the bat, but I'll go back and confirm that. I guess the logic is that you want to break the connection to the chassis for ultimate protection, as every other circuit is already protected with its own fuse.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The guy at the West Marine extended his warm hospitality by letting me crimp these wires at his work table. If you've ever had to crimp 2/0 wire, you'll understand how awesome a gesture this was. He saved me a bundle of money by not having to buy my own crimper, and a lot of time as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But here's the finished result. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4UwRdMVcI/AAAAAAAAA00/S7HuPKHCkdw/s1600/2+OT+ends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4UwRdMVcI/AAAAAAAAA00/S7HuPKHCkdw/s320/2+OT+ends.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's cable worth 195 amps of electricity, according to the AWG table. You may wonder what the heck I'd need that much for, but again, at 12 volts, the amperage draw can jump up pretty quickly with a 2000 watt inverter and a 60amp charge controller. And, then you've got your 12 volt accessories. Right now, with my 1000 watt inverter and my 220 watt solar panel with 45amp solar charge controller, I'm looking at 150amps of electricity flow, with circuit protection of 160 amps. I haven't even begun with my 12 volt accessories It's amazing! If I want to upgrade that inverter to 1500 watts, in the future, I'd be on the edge with the 2/0 cable. And, that's not even taking into consideration a solar upgrade with at 60amp charge controller! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, what's funny, is that in everything I've read by RVers who have personal experience with solar systems, the authors have mentioned with uncanny consistency, that many RV manufacturers and installers will use inefficient wiring and will also routinely place components such as charge controllers and inverters much too far away from the battery banks, thereby further taxing the system through line loss. If you want some corroboration, check out my link to some "Grandfatherly advice on solar," and pick up a copy of "RV Electrical Systems" by Moeller. There is also a self proclaimed cowboy who blogs from Montana. He describes with some great humor and wit his whole solar conversion and wiring system in his 5th wheel. I think I found his link on "Cheaprvliving.com." Those three sources were the most memorable of all that I've read regarding this topic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, enough of that!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I picked up a main disconnect...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4bMuKy7KI/AAAAAAAAA04/xX_UfkYhT2E/s1600/main+switch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4bMuKy7KI/AAAAAAAAA04/xX_UfkYhT2E/s320/main+switch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...some bus bars...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4bYt9qjzI/AAAAAAAAA08/r-3oqc9UAVA/s1600/bus+bar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4bYt9qjzI/AAAAAAAAA08/r-3oqc9UAVA/s320/bus+bar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, there you have it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Today I'll be laying out the whole system on a piece of wood that will be the back wall of the electrical closet. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4b1ZNtaaI/AAAAAAAAA1A/iLPKO2kEeZA/s1600/laying+it+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4b1ZNtaaI/AAAAAAAAA1A/iLPKO2kEeZA/s320/laying+it+out.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Once I've drilled everything down, I'll remove it all, set the wall in place and put everything back!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oh, here's the roof rack, installed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4ceNSJNDI/AAAAAAAAA1E/wy9YY7jugCY/s1600/roof+racks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4ceNSJNDI/AAAAAAAAA1E/wy9YY7jugCY/s320/roof+racks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm going to place the panel over those bars like a canoe, so I can install beside the panel a groovy black basket for other stuff I may want to load up during my extended camping trips.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My girl came up with a great idea. She suggested that I find a way to make the back wall above the bed open to the outside for those nights beside the ocean. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4dEd6IpUI/AAAAAAAAA1I/da-EWqQK1AU/s1600/window+framing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJ4dEd6IpUI/AAAAAAAAA1I/da-EWqQK1AU/s320/window+framing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, when I open the back door, all people will see is the storage area below the bed. Above it will be the framed out set of closed doors to be opened at my leisure. I'm actually pretty excited about it. It might just be my favorite feature about the whole enterprise. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Off to electricland!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-29385308280580699762010-09-21T22:39:00.000-07:002010-09-21T22:40:54.664-07:00I believe "frantic" is the operative term...This past week propelled me into outer space. First, I received a phone call from a work acquaintance, during which he offered me a job that would take me out of the country for several months. Basically it was an offer I couldn't refuse. So, I'm off to see the wizard, as of October 21st.<br />
<br />
At the same time, another work project, previously on the back burner, has now suddenly risen up from the grave, demanding a portion of what remains as my time left here at home. I really don't want to leave the van parked in storage for so long. I'd rather my girl took it out for a spin and enjoyed herself while camping with her young ones.<br />
<br />
So, the goal is to finish this thing in three weeks. Yikes! I'm not sure it's possible. But, I'm sure as heck going to try. I've been working on it every day since last Monday, from sun up till I can't see straight.<br />
<br />
First, I must give a thousand "Thanks" to Les, who pointed out the potential problems with my choice for mounting the propane tank. Sure enough, after a fair amount of research, I found out that the tank would be impossible to fill in the orientation I had placed it.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">This is the way it was.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmSQi_2FbI/AAAAAAAAAy4/IdN4UO0MRMY/s1600/tank+mounted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmSQi_2FbI/AAAAAAAAAy4/IdN4UO0MRMY/s320/tank+mounted.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I obviously have zero experience with propane tanks, because when I saw the nozzle that one must use to attach the filling hose, my jaw dropped. I made a gross assumption about how that all works. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, due to the early catch, I have remedied the situation and will just have to cut a small hole to place a little access door for filling. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the new orientation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmS2c3-5RI/AAAAAAAAAzA/huCKWmo6efA/s1600/propane+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmS2c3-5RI/AAAAAAAAAzA/huCKWmo6efA/s320/propane+tank.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Whew! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Luckily, a friend of mine came both for a visit and to see what all this business of living in a van is all about. He offered his assistance, which I greatly appreciated. Thanks, to my friend, Steve. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On a lighter note...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I framed out my music console. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmTU5GijFI/AAAAAAAAAzI/2zcYVYDHJVA/s1600/framing+for+music+center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmTU5GijFI/AAAAAAAAAzI/2zcYVYDHJVA/s320/framing+for+music+center.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Iport slips into the top rectangle, while the stereo / CD player will slide into the bottom receptacle. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmTla067JI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/G5Gak4Sp6mQ/s1600/music+center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmTla067JI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/G5Gak4Sp6mQ/s320/music+center.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The sink basin sits completely flush with the counter top so that the bed mechanism will be able slide out, unencumbered. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmT1YLB4VI/AAAAAAAAAzY/4UM3owE9mq0/s1600/sink+basin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmT1YLB4VI/AAAAAAAAAzY/4UM3owE9mq0/s320/sink+basin.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, the faucet will swing out of the way to accommodate the expanded bed frame.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmUAh-7eBI/AAAAAAAAAzg/PU-li9fzS9s/s1600/faucet+extended.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmUAh-7eBI/AAAAAAAAAzg/PU-li9fzS9s/s320/faucet+extended.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My ridiculously expensive faucet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmUJ98pygI/AAAAAAAAAzo/YCgLvzvHZgA/s1600/faucet+swung+over.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmUJ98pygI/AAAAAAAAAzo/YCgLvzvHZgA/s320/faucet+swung+over.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, worth every penny. It solves a host of problems by swinging that way so tight to the wall.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the stove. A half inch cover / cutting board rests on top, flush with the counter's surface.<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmU3ckdTQI/AAAAAAAAAzw/ifiHhbs6yRo/s1600/stove+roughed+in.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmU3ckdTQI/AAAAAAAAAzw/ifiHhbs6yRo/s320/stove+roughed+in.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I still have to add some cosmetic metal all around the interior of the recess. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Insulating the van has proven to be a very labor intensive process. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmVPhyY59I/AAAAAAAAAz4/qAK36b3e-cM/s1600/insulation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmVPhyY59I/AAAAAAAAAz4/qAK36b3e-cM/s320/insulation.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, that's just the one layer. I added electrical junction boxes which will be followed by another layer of insulation, stretched taught between those studs to form an air gap. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, finally, the shower valve.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmVrI6X1cI/AAAAAAAAA0A/aRybMuUCbj0/s1600/bathroom+insulation+and+shower+valve.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJmVrI6X1cI/AAAAAAAAA0A/aRybMuUCbj0/s320/bathroom+insulation+and+shower+valve.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There may be hope, yet. Fingers crossed! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-36672060220463513252010-09-17T09:35:00.000-07:002010-09-17T09:35:00.587-07:00The factory is up and running, full tilt!My job has ended. That's not to say doomsday approaches because my next job begins in October and will carry me through June. The good news, though, is that the line has ramped up production and there's no stopping me, now. In just three days I've managed a great deal of progress. <br />
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For starters, all three fans now grace the ceiling of the Roving Home.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJLzMxaFOaI/AAAAAAAAAv4/J48lYgnTgc4/s1600/fans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJLzMxaFOaI/AAAAAAAAAv4/J48lYgnTgc4/s320/fans.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Roving Gnomes have begun an early Christmas preparation by rolling out the pre-holiday sparkle via some brand new insulation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJLzlCbNQ4I/AAAAAAAAAwA/KPguqsr_2Kw/s1600/insulation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJLzlCbNQ4I/AAAAAAAAAwA/KPguqsr_2Kw/s320/insulation.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Which leads me to another topic -- crappy tools. Santa will definitely get a bit of the cold shoulder for the disappointing gifts he left me last year. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My drill...?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL0DZRno8I/AAAAAAAAAwI/q9zVbsI6VGg/s1600/broken+drill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL0DZRno8I/AAAAAAAAAwI/q9zVbsI6VGg/s320/broken+drill.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dead!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My jigsaw...?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL0PKovdJI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/9v9ytqtYKxI/s1600/broken+skil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL0PKovdJI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/9v9ytqtYKxI/s320/broken+skil.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Dead! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, that thing had to die right in the middle of a large circular cut on the rooftop, under a blazing sun, no less. I had to stop the presses and bolt to my neighborhood Ace Hardware! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But...this is what I got. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL0mT0VeGI/AAAAAAAAAwY/suPrs69H50A/s1600/makita+jigsaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL0mT0VeGI/AAAAAAAAAwY/suPrs69H50A/s320/makita+jigsaw.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Like butter!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL09V1i6fI/AAAAAAAAAwg/MQSvAeiI-No/s1600/dewalt+drill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL09V1i6fI/AAAAAAAAAwg/MQSvAeiI-No/s320/dewalt+drill.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sweeeeet! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But can you believe it that two integral tools poop out within 24 hours of one another? I'm not a tool beater, I promise! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, back to business. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I finished the galley framing, including the water heater placement. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL1hJe58SI/AAAAAAAAAwo/nNVR7BD_zmI/s1600/galley+framing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL1hJe58SI/AAAAAAAAAwo/nNVR7BD_zmI/s320/galley+framing.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I carved out some nice little holes in the water heater box for the propane and water lines. I was going to leave them rough, but then decided that not finishing the holes would be a classic slacker move. So, off to Home Depot at 9:30pm to get a few short threaded pipes and some collars. Now, that is a proper finish. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL2Ol5sfzI/AAAAAAAAAw4/Wt_jrN-622k/s1600/heater+box+holes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL2Ol5sfzI/AAAAAAAAAw4/Wt_jrN-622k/s320/heater+box+holes.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's another view of the heater.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL2aNOjHEI/AAAAAAAAAxA/dZCpgXwme1c/s1600/water+heater+wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL2aNOjHEI/AAAAAAAAAxA/dZCpgXwme1c/s320/water+heater+wide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That hole to the outside is comprised of two elements. I purchased a stainless steel bushing that's made for trash, similar to the hole in the counter top at Starbucks. You know the metal rim that rings the hole where you drop your straw wrappers? I bought one of those from a restaurant supply place and found a drain strainer at Bed Bath and Beyond completely by happenstance. I breezed passed the strainer hanging on a display, while at the very same moment visions of the Roving Home flashed before my eyes. It was like a deja vu or a stranger calling from a past life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or not. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But it sure is cool! It fit perfectly! I mean -- like factory made! I glued the stainless steel strainer to the stainless steel grommet. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL3d77P9xI/AAAAAAAAAxI/Al1Ya8lfg9M/s1600/heater+vent+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL3d77P9xI/AAAAAAAAAxI/Al1Ya8lfg9M/s320/heater+vent+close+up.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL3lETVk5I/AAAAAAAAAxQ/IV2_SDIIgak/s1600/heater+vent+wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL3lETVk5I/AAAAAAAAAxQ/IV2_SDIIgak/s320/heater+vent+wide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Virtually non existent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Next!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Like they say in Mission Impossible: "Your mission, Jim, should you choose to accept it..." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I brought home a chassis-mounted propane tank.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL39wcXU1I/AAAAAAAAAxY/OVtxt-Dl8hA/s1600/the+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL39wcXU1I/AAAAAAAAAxY/OVtxt-Dl8hA/s320/the+tank.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Your mission, Jim, is to take that tank and put it...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL4OnfXZgI/AAAAAAAAAxg/R2iDdxzDCEg/s1600/the+chassis+ready+for+mounting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL4OnfXZgI/AAAAAAAAAxg/R2iDdxzDCEg/s320/the+chassis+ready+for+mounting.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My first question was whether or not the mounting brackets would actually lin up with those cross beams. The odds were slim.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL2K_-KPUI/AAAAAAAAAww/ZKTmQIGXt6o/s1600/tank+holes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL2K_-KPUI/AAAAAAAAAww/ZKTmQIGXt6o/s320/tank+holes.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A test was necessary. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I cut some wood to make a template.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL5SwejdjI/AAAAAAAAAxo/VcjwDRliMkk/s1600/propane+board+cut+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJL5SwejdjI/AAAAAAAAAxo/VcjwDRliMkk/s320/propane+board+cut+out.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOT9POmeBI/AAAAAAAAAxw/AxaUVpwjYtA/s1600/bolt+in+board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOT9POmeBI/AAAAAAAAAxw/AxaUVpwjYtA/s320/bolt+in+board.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Believe it or not, that board aligned perfectly with the cross beams. No extra supports or metal brackets were needed. And the clearance from left to right on either side of the tank was about 2 inches. Who would have thought?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The next hurdle was getting that tank suspended in the air so I could fasten the bolts. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I saw this on another guy's blog. I'd like to take the credit, but I just can't. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOUxbXrOBI/AAAAAAAAAx4/To1EIaPGW0A/s1600/floor+jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOUxbXrOBI/AAAAAAAAAx4/To1EIaPGW0A/s320/floor+jack.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOU8hmQ3KI/AAAAAAAAAyA/y78si_JeRhA/s1600/tank+on+jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOU8hmQ3KI/AAAAAAAAAyA/y78si_JeRhA/s320/tank+on+jack.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grabbed the bolts! Automotive grade!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOVLJiBABI/AAAAAAAAAyI/CQm2sySQ1vc/s1600/bolts+on+ground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOVLJiBABI/AAAAAAAAAyI/CQm2sySQ1vc/s320/bolts+on+ground.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, voila!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOVZagv52I/AAAAAAAAAyQ/MVyJ5uGBmTE/s1600/tank+mounted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOVZagv52I/AAAAAAAAAyQ/MVyJ5uGBmTE/s320/tank+mounted.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This angle makes the tank appear to hang sort of low, but it actually doesn't. From the side, you can't even see it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, the coolest thing, once again, is that there was already an access hole in the body. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOV3XX4GTI/AAAAAAAAAyY/tWxhtGgdLiI/s1600/heater+vent+wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOV3XX4GTI/AAAAAAAAAyY/tWxhtGgdLiI/s320/heater+vent+wide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Below that silver rectangle is a tiny square that was cut out of the body. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, look at what lies just behind that cut out square?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOWPA2dF4I/AAAAAAAAAyg/LY4kEnEgX4s/s1600/propane+opening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOWPA2dF4I/AAAAAAAAAyg/LY4kEnEgX4s/s320/propane+opening.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The propane fill valve!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The square was fastened with rivets -- probably designed for access to either a waste tank, generator or maybe propane. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOWbKPwzII/AAAAAAAAAyo/oK3CRwr-9r8/s1600/close-up+tank+through+opening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOWbKPwzII/AAAAAAAAAyo/oK3CRwr-9r8/s320/close-up+tank+through+opening.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I fastened a little piano hinge to the plate, once I drilled the rivets out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOW6SPV8jI/AAAAAAAAAyw/8BI9-29sGfk/s1600/finished+propane+flap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TJOW6SPV8jI/AAAAAAAAAyw/8BI9-29sGfk/s320/finished+propane+flap.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Propane tank...done!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Luck was on my side, today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-21279776193736021032010-09-12T20:49:00.000-07:002010-09-12T20:49:05.474-07:00Starting to realize the vision...The interior has finally begun to take shape. I can now see the perspective of the layout and how it's going to work in conjunction with all of the various elements. I had to do some serious analysis of the toilet pull-out in relation to the water heater placement. Oddly enough, how I fit those two pieces beside one another is going to effect a lot of other steps in this build. <br />
<br />
<div align="center">I'm branching out to the left and to the right, using those two components as the hub for that side of the van. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2CvE4xDgI/AAAAAAAAAus/fZRwwTBbK4M/s1600/bathroom+with+water+heater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2CvE4xDgI/AAAAAAAAAus/fZRwwTBbK4M/s320/bathroom+with+water+heater.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't want to push the toilet too far out into the bathroom because I'll have to extend the counter top to hide it. And that means less room for showering. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I must have spent an hour over the weekend just looking and absorbing -- starting in my head at "A," then making my way to "Z," and finally, back to "A."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the picture below, you can see how the depth of the wall between the bathroom and water heater can be minimized to add inches. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2E2CIZI6I/AAAAAAAAAu0/Ks1TWLFWz2I/s1600/toilet+back+side+with+water+heater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2E2CIZI6I/AAAAAAAAAu0/Ks1TWLFWz2I/s320/toilet+back+side+with+water+heater.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The toilet mechanism pushes back into the framing. If you look closely, you can see that the bottom piece of wood beneath that metal "X" stands on its own. Normally, that would extend from corner to corner as a footing for the vertical wall studs. But, I need every inch I can get. A nice piece of birch plywood will create the wall between the bathroom and the water heater, but we're talking about only a half inch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, during all of this I managed to put a coat of stain on the bulkhead door. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2GSN6BwXI/AAAAAAAAAu8/y1_O3OsJ9bY/s1600/door+stained.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2GSN6BwXI/AAAAAAAAAu8/y1_O3OsJ9bY/s320/door+stained.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I also finished up the floor guide, so the whole mechanism is tight and smooth. The door now glides open and locks firmly. I'm pretty happy with it. The redo was definitely worth it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Back to the bathroom.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To the left of the toilet mechanism, I've got just enough room to make a groovy hide-away slide for toilet-paper and other accessories. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2HqvDNIYI/AAAAAAAAAvM/5CX8EhNUcoA/s1600/slide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2HqvDNIYI/AAAAAAAAAvM/5CX8EhNUcoA/s320/slide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't even have room for hinges on a swinging door. So, I think this will work beautifully.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2MYyRE5vI/AAAAAAAAAvw/fXAnR8m5dIA/s1600/toilet+paper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2MYyRE5vI/AAAAAAAAAvw/fXAnR8m5dIA/s320/toilet+paper.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another view of the minimal room between the toilet slider and the left-hand wall...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2Iv7o7B2I/AAAAAAAAAvU/13BGqVvn_jc/s1600/bathroom+framing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2Iv7o7B2I/AAAAAAAAAvU/13BGqVvn_jc/s320/bathroom+framing.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love how the outlet and switch drawings on the wall are going to be perfectly placed above the counter top. Planning is truly everything. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I could probably do a bit better in keeping my work space tidy - a window to the inner workings of my brain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2JRIBs1LI/AAAAAAAAAvc/4HEzNWONoDI/s1600/mayhem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TI2JRIBs1LI/AAAAAAAAAvc/4HEzNWONoDI/s320/mayhem.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My current job ends on Friday. At that point, the pedal's hittin' the metal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-32835676149569265392010-09-06T21:27:00.000-07:002010-09-08T06:47:18.062-07:00Love 3-Day Weekends!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Just one extra day seems to make all the difference in the world. Come Sunday afternoon, I'm usually packing up my tools around 4:00pm so that I can rush the van back to storage by 4:30, in time for closing.<br />
<br />
Each weekend it seems like I have to start over. Pulling out my tools, remembering where I left off and gaining some momentum usually takes an hour off of the first day. So all told, my two days of build time works out to maybe 1.5 days of real progress.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">BUT NOT THIS WEEKEND!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;">I started by throwing up the ceiling beams Pretty straight forward process.</div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;"> </div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWoA79gcII/AAAAAAAAAsU/J0aVz4KU5GE/s1600/ceiling+beam+wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWoA79gcII/AAAAAAAAAsU/J0aVz4KU5GE/s320/ceiling+beam+wide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Check out this awesome feature -- built right into the Roving Home -- for your ceiling beam installation pleasure. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWoydKJxMI/AAAAAAAAAsc/H1ae39sbKRs/s1600/ceiling+beam+close+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWoydKJxMI/AAAAAAAAAsc/H1ae39sbKRs/s320/ceiling+beam+close+up.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All I had to do was notch the wood a bit. How amazing is that?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Time to build some walls!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWpYY15RDI/AAAAAAAAAsk/7-xEh4zTUOg/s1600/wardrobe+framing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWpYY15RDI/AAAAAAAAAsk/7-xEh4zTUOg/s320/wardrobe+framing.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The framing in the picture represents the wardrobe. I went up to my girl's closet to measure the depth of your garden-variety hanger. By the way, I've never seen so many clothes in my life. I informed her that the closet of the Roving Home will accommodate maybe four wardrobe changes, and that's it -- which is a good thing, because that way she won't be waffling between outfits for 30 minutes, thereby draining all of my precious electricity so she can see how she looks (which is always fabulous).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So...a garden variety hanger holding a long-sleeved shirt or light jacket takes up roughly 19 inches, with wiggle room. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWrM-uM2AI/AAAAAAAAAss/VauRzkZGjHk/s1600/almost+20+inches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWrM-uM2AI/AAAAAAAAAss/VauRzkZGjHk/s320/almost+20+inches.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not too bad! And that's without the front facing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, that's a clean 19.5 inches of raw hanger-holding freedom. And, no, I didn't just "luck out" on that one. I did my homework. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A bit of back-tracking. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I picked up my van on Saturday morning, after a week of absence, and I parked the van in my usual spot and unlatched the wooden bulkhead door. With a heave-ho I forced it open. Hm...something didn't feel right. Last week that thing glided back and forth as if mounted on ball-bearings. Apparently the aluminum angle piece that holds the overhead track didn't like all that weight and started to droop. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Back to the drawing board. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I replaced the support bracket with a steel piece. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWs6Fq3GyI/AAAAAAAAAs0/Y6_Mg-oP6wI/s1600/door+closed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWs6Fq3GyI/AAAAAAAAAs0/Y6_Mg-oP6wI/s320/door+closed.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kind of a bummer, but now it's solid. It closes perfectly and locks nicely in place. Taking that whole thing apart and rehanging it set me back a good 2 hours. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, I've noticed throughout my armchair travels on the Internet that most people who build "house-cars" have started from the ceiling, down. They cut all of their holes in the roof, first, then adhere insulation and wire the necessary roof mounted appliances before sealing up the framework and continuing onward to the walls. I don't have that much confidence in my ability to think of every last detail on paper. With my luck, I'd seal everything overhead before realizing that if I'd only moved that one beam over another 4 inches, then I'd be able to set the bathroom wall up, perfectly. I also want to be able to test all electrical circuits, plumbing and propane before closing everything up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I'm working in a linear fashion from front to rear, beginning with the framing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWvfyn3ZII/AAAAAAAAAs8/gAG_Bi5ajf0/s1600/fan+one+layer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWvfyn3ZII/AAAAAAAAAs8/gAG_Bi5ajf0/s320/fan+one+layer.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There's the bathroom fan. I also slapped up the first layer of insulation. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With regards to insulation, it's all about the air gap. Think of it this way: You've fired up your kitchen stove and have dropped a frying pan onto the grate. After a few minutes parked over that flame, the frying pan is going to give you a smart burn if you touch that metal surface, right? But if you hold your finger an inch above the pan, how hot would that be? I would suspect, not very. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As with the frying pan, metal roofs contain all of the heat. So the most important thing to establish is an air gap to block the transmission of the radiant heat. The first layer of insulation adheres directly to the scorching - and I mean scorching - hot aluminum. The second layer suspends taught, between the beams. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWyTEsgPsI/AAAAAAAAAtU/PvSTmMRUPso/s1600/second+layer+insulation.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWyTEsgPsI/AAAAAAAAAtU/PvSTmMRUPso/s320/second+layer+insulation.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A staple gun seals the deal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWxScbY3FI/AAAAAAAAAtE/8iUJYYSbb7s/s1600/finished+insulation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWxScbY3FI/AAAAAAAAAtE/8iUJYYSbb7s/s320/finished+insulation.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, now you've got layer 1 which touches the metal. Layer two is merely an air gap, followed by more insulation. And finally layer 4, which is another air gap. Adjacent to the completed portion of the insulated roof, the unfinished metal ceiling was hot to the touch under the afternoon sun. The air below the insulated portion was luke-warm. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">SUH-WEET!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let's finish up the bathroom fan!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWzSFJy_eI/AAAAAAAAAtc/ciyAWK9idp0/s1600/finished+fan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWzSFJy_eI/AAAAAAAAAtc/ciyAWK9idp0/s320/finished+fan.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, look at the super secret profile from above.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWzcIGT7vI/AAAAAAAAAtk/RXiF7TKBX_4/s1600/Roof+vent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIWzcIGT7vI/AAAAAAAAAtk/RXiF7TKBX_4/s320/Roof+vent.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">NEAT!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Take note of this ceiling fan. This came with the truck. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW2TnV6QVI/AAAAAAAAAt0/vHPtcyeJPmw/s1600/stripped+ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW2TnV6QVI/AAAAAAAAAt0/vHPtcyeJPmw/s320/stripped+ceiling.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That thing seriously cramps my style...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW26KM7KQI/AAAAAAAAAt8/2WkV63P7hnc/s1600/hammered+fan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW26KM7KQI/AAAAAAAAAt8/2WkV63P7hnc/s320/hammered+fan.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But it sure didn't want to go without a fight. I whacked that thing into submission for about 5 minutes. They probably used Henry's 900 adhesive -- my all time favorite. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had to wrestle with the roof top vent, as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW1S5M7K0I/AAAAAAAAAts/RV0j-C9jLuk/s1600/rooftop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW1S5M7K0I/AAAAAAAAAts/RV0j-C9jLuk/s320/rooftop2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW3N578wdI/AAAAAAAAAuE/9jy14lBjRw8/s1600/rooftop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW3N578wdI/AAAAAAAAAuE/9jy14lBjRw8/s320/rooftop.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Done!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW3pSKNuVI/AAAAAAAAAuM/U2an0n0D_Lc/s1600/covered+hole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW3pSKNuVI/AAAAAAAAAuM/U2an0n0D_Lc/s320/covered+hole.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Before sealing in the door behind the bathroom wall, I'm going to have to stain it while I can get to it. However, that will have to be next weekend's project. Here's a little test I did. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW4veglNFI/AAAAAAAAAuc/u9nxaUeAb-0/s1600/stain+test.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW4veglNFI/AAAAAAAAAuc/u9nxaUeAb-0/s320/stain+test.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm partial to the Minwax -- less red. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Had just enough time to wrap things up before heading inside to a another fabulous post-build pre-work meal. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you haven't had a Belgian Ale, I'd highly recommend it. They tend to be smooth, roasty and sweet. This is one my new favorites -- Terrible, by Unibrau in Quebec. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW5yxoSogI/AAAAAAAAAuk/Ktiu8bQATqs/s1600/the+wedge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TIW5yxoSogI/AAAAAAAAAuk/Ktiu8bQATqs/s320/the+wedge.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-88707214326723994242010-08-30T11:01:00.000-07:002010-08-30T17:43:38.610-07:00Squeaked by...In every sense of the phrase, I indeed, "squeaked by," this weekend. The nagging voice that kept me awake several nights continued to remind me that the water heater compartment stood too high and would most likely compromise a proper placement of the sink basin in the galley. <br />
<br />
No, I wasn't losing sleep over the people in Haiti who are still living in temporary housing camps, post earthquake. And for that, I should feel ashamed of myself. But, that's another post for another day.<br />
<br />
I feared that I may have to redo the whole water heater box, give it a haircut along the bottom and fabricate a new piece for the access door. My gut was telling me that I should have lowered the water heater and made the box shorter.<br />
<br />
Saturday morning arrived. I brought the van over to my shop space and dragged the water heater locker into the cargo bay. The top edge of the blue tape represents the surface of the counter top.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THseRXGmrNI/AAAAAAAAAqM/C9euSCPHtA4/s1600/water+heater+in+truck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THseRXGmrNI/AAAAAAAAAqM/C9euSCPHtA4/s320/water+heater+in+truck.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, here lies my dilemma. I'd surely hit that box if I wanted the sink centered between the wall and the edge of counter top. I just don't know why I didn't see that coming. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THsfITYw55I/AAAAAAAAAqU/lA_LhAPDhLo/s1600/sink+basin+with+water+heater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THsfITYw55I/AAAAAAAAAqU/lA_LhAPDhLo/s320/sink+basin+with+water+heater.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's as close as the basin will get to the wall. My heart sunk. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But wait! What about the faucet? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THsfnEtLeyI/AAAAAAAAAqk/FSJ2kL-ywiw/s1600/wall+faucet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THsfnEtLeyI/AAAAAAAAAqk/FSJ2kL-ywiw/s320/wall+faucet.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, there's the faucet as it will look, mounted into the wall. It will swing out of the way, so that the bed can be expanded over the counter top. Seriously, I can't believe I found such a cool piece of plumbing hardware. I paid handsomely for it, but I digress. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And look where the spigot ends up, with respect to the bowl. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THsgi7Rs0hI/AAAAAAAAAqs/ypu6eneGPIM/s1600/DSCN0544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THsgi7Rs0hI/AAAAAAAAAqs/ypu6eneGPIM/s320/DSCN0544.JPG" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I realize you may not be able to tell from this angle, but the faucet extends almost to the center of the bowl. How amazing is that stroke of luck? It's perfect! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Whew! I can rest easy. There's also enough room to mount the hot and cold water hoses under the faucet, without too much trouble. The gap between the water heater locker and the counter top will be just enough to accommodate the propane line from the stove. "Lucky," is the operative term. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Of course, if I need to replace the water heater, there will have to be some removal of plumbing and shelving, but if I construct to deconstruct, then all is well. I can't tell you how many times I've had to remove parts and pieces from my cars and motorcycles just to get to the place I want to repair. It's just the nature of the beast.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, here's where things took off in a completely different direction, this weekend. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My girl felt that we needed to spend some more quality time together, since I have devoted five consecutive weekends to my build, thus far. She suggested a drive up into the mountains to a little town called Idylwild, for some cooling off and a bit of fresh air. A part of me really wanted to keep pushing through this project, but another part of me said that life ( as well as a relationship) is a balance, and one weekend surely won't be the ruin of me. "Sounds fun," I said aloud, as if to offer myself an affecting life affirmation that I gleaned from a self help book.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, wouldn't you know it, after a round of phone calls in search of a room, my girl found out that the Jazz In The Pines festival was currently under way. Ah! No rooms! In hindsight, I could have jumped on that opportunity and opted to stay local, giving me a chance to continue what I was doing. But, I was warming to the concept of a break. "Call back around 3pm. There are always cancellations." A ninety minute drive would place us there at a perfect time of day for an arrival to the mile high mountain village.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Meanwhile, I'm trying to get at least one task underway, should we decide on a whim that we're taking off for the night. The wire cage behind the passenger's seat has a solid board that blocks the view of the interior from prying eyes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvGsoxVJpI/AAAAAAAAAq0/YM8lvKwK5xk/s1600/passenger+cage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvGsoxVJpI/AAAAAAAAAq0/YM8lvKwK5xk/s320/passenger+cage.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Unfortunately, the driver's side lacks the equivalent.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvHFZLduFI/AAAAAAAAAq8/As0BUjox4lw/s1600/driver%27s+seat+cage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvHFZLduFI/AAAAAAAAAq8/As0BUjox4lw/s320/driver%27s+seat+cage.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, a little cut...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvHzmdNgPI/AAAAAAAAArE/tnGofIK5q_s/s1600/a+little+cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvHzmdNgPI/AAAAAAAAArE/tnGofIK5q_s/s320/a+little+cut.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">a little paint...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvH-M7WveI/AAAAAAAAArM/8AHKkeru7s4/s1600/paint+roller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvH-M7WveI/AAAAAAAAArM/8AHKkeru7s4/s320/paint+roller.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let it set.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvIGIegIvI/AAAAAAAAArU/y_CMuulbL7Y/s1600/gray+panel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvIGIegIvI/AAAAAAAAArU/y_CMuulbL7Y/s320/gray+panel.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure enough, a room cancellation! Let's hit the road!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvIUUklhEI/AAAAAAAAArc/TMyXWsa594E/s1600/idylwild+road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvIUUklhEI/AAAAAAAAArc/TMyXWsa594E/s320/idylwild+road.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Upon our arrival in town, it was clear that the economy has taken its toll. I wouldn't have known there was even a festival in town if I'd just rolled in, unaware.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvI8_qFBqI/AAAAAAAAArk/pS8G39SiIwg/s1600/jazz+car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvI8_qFBqI/AAAAAAAAArk/pS8G39SiIwg/s320/jazz+car.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Of course, you can't have a jazz festival without some sort of jazzy car making its rounds through the neighborhood. Though, I was still a skeptic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Gnome had the right idea. For it was certainly time for a beverage. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvJ6swfQhI/AAAAAAAAAr0/vfLDYvC4Yx0/s1600/DSCN0560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvJ6swfQhI/AAAAAAAAAr0/vfLDYvC4Yx0/s320/DSCN0560.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Gnomes know, because our next stop was the restaurant "Gastrognome," a moderately reviewed higher end dining establishment. At the bar, I ordered a couple of glasses of pinot noir, to which the female bartender responded, in a surprisingly masculine voice," Okay, two glasses of pinot," before turning to my girl, "and, what are you having?" Her comment was worth a chuckle and set the tone. The restaurant had a nice cozy quaint vibe to it, far better than the Internet photos had suggested. I even contemplated offering the manager a photo session for a free-meal rain check. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Apparently, the real act in town was a restaurant called "Aroma." Given that sitting down for a meal didn't really feel like something we wanted to do, my girl placed a call to "Aroma," enquiring about the possibility of getting a table in an hour or so. "We're completely booked now, but things should thin out around that time. Check back." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A few minutes and a few sips later, my girl leaned over with a concerned look. "Is that a man," referring to our bartender's deliberate way of grabbing bottles and pouring liquor into glasses. The painted nails, mascara and necklaces told a different story, but we were waiting for more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A waitress breezed by, snatching up a tray of freshly prepared drinks with umbrellas before gliding swiftly into the adjoining dining room. A murmur trailed her from behind. "Thanks, Ron." No bones about it, that dude had nothing to hide.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On cue, in walks a gay couple from the desert resort town of Palm Springs. They drove about as far as we did to get to Idylwild, but from the opposite direction. Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope each owned lavish homes in Palm Springs back in the 50's. For years, it's been a retreat for the affluent gay community of Los Angeles. And, that group has certainly added great value to Palm Springs by refurbishing and redesigning the original mid century modern architecture with great style.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, this gay couple says hello to "Ron," happy to pay a visit to their old acquaintance and our fabulous new bartender. Yet there's an odd energy, as I sense that while they're thrilled to pieces about "Ron's" fashion statement, "Ron's" not gay and doesn't jibe with what they're offering. His responses are curt and professional. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At this point, it's becoming clear to me that Idylwild is not merely a sleepy mountain town that one could easily pass right through while on his way to somewhere else. Indeed, there lies a nuance beneath the surface. My wandering mind conjures up images of "Twin Peaks."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My girl can hardly keep her eyes off the crazy diamond encrusted gold rings that adorn the right hand of the guy that did less of the talking. And, just before she can muster up the courage to make a comment, the lesbian couple swoop in and take the two seats between us. No jewelry talk for my girl. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The two couples converse about all things fabulous, Palm Springs and the design business owned by the guys that just landed them a huge payday via a brand new commercial account. The conversation leads to questions about dinner. "Oh, we're heading over to 'Aroma.' We booked our reservation 6 months ago. You can't get in, otherwise." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My girl and I shot each other a knowing glance. Apparently you <em>can </em>get in. "Check, please!" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A drive up the road led us to a whole new experience. This is where money stays when it comes to Idylwild. I had no idea. Nice restaurants, galleries and lodges lined the street. How did we miss this? And, sure enough, peeking out from a stand of pines, stood "Aroma." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A tree fort in the woods, came to mind. The restaurant consists of several levels, with lots of nooks and decks. Dusk settled in. Dots of warm candle light flickered upon the table tops, breaking up the blue hazy evening -- a sight to behold. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We stood at the base of the stairs, determined for a shot at schmoozing the maitre d'. Clearly, Aroma was the place to be. The tables were filled with over sized plates of colorful food and bottles of wine, while people clustered in groups awaiting the next available table. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is where your attractive smiling girlfriend comes in handy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">"Give us about fifteen minutes and we'll probably be able to come up with something." I surely didn't expect that. Especially since the gay couple from the bar, flashy rings and all, had just pulled up in their new Mercedes, walked right up to the front of the line and announced their arrival for their table. I saw where all this was heading.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Let's come back in a hour." I grabbed my girl's hand and we strolled up the road to another place which had a deck that overlooked the creek. Not so bad. But it wasn't Aroma. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Six months in advance!?" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After about an hour had passed, we decided to try our luck. Once again, standing before the maitre d', we asked if there was any possibility of a table, since the place had "thinned out" a bit. Incidentally, the great thing about jazz festivals in a little resort town is that the clientele are generally older folks and like to get their dinner on at 6 to 7 o'clock. Now, this is a generalization, so don't get mad at me if you've experienced otherwise. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure enough, a table was available, on the deck, with a perfect view of the jazz band that was due to start. I found out later on that several of the band members had played at the festival throughout the day. And they were top notch!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THveiQwfCwI/AAAAAAAAAr8/Fxid7mYZe98/s1600/aroma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THveiQwfCwI/AAAAAAAAAr8/Fxid7mYZe98/s320/aroma.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvexoDhDEI/AAAAAAAAAsE/GR_7TkoyBiQ/s1600/aroma+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THvexoDhDEI/AAAAAAAAAsE/GR_7TkoyBiQ/s320/aroma+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The food was amazing and the whole experience couldn't have been better.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We got back in time, the following day, so I could roll out a second coat of paint and affix the board to the cage wall. Not a bad weekend, I'd say.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-59920137261814446362010-08-23T09:36:00.000-07:002010-08-23T15:49:33.856-07:00The Water HeaterIn my titling of this week's blog entry, I just couldn't muster up clever. So the heading stands.<br />
<br />
I've come to realize that everything comes in "twos." At least, it does for the purpose of building a portable home on wheels. Now, it may be that since I have only two consecutive days each week devoted entirely to construction, that I force myself to accomplish tasks in a timely manner. Or, the adverse could be true, that I know I've got two days so I can work at a pace below par. I'm not sure, because I lack any sort of bench mark against which I might measure performance. My hunch, though, is that the latter is true. Also, a trip to Home Depot is worth roughly two hundred smackers, just about every time, without fail. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">That being said, I'll get right into this past weekend's festivities. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I started with a box. Yes, you're on the edge of your seat.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKSM7_my2I/AAAAAAAAAoc/mWKC8_8trZo/s1600/The+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKSM7_my2I/AAAAAAAAAoc/mWKC8_8trZo/s320/The+box.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For those not in the know, all propane powered appliances that operate within a confined space must be sealed from the inside, so that any potential wayward gas cannot contaminate the living quarters. Under most circumstances, this means that refrigerators, water heaters and furnaces are enclosed in their own boxes that are accessible only from outside the vehicle via an access door and are vented to the outside, as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Due to multiple restrictions and considerations, I've decided to make my water heater accessible from inside the vehicle. My decision is based largely on the fact that the water heater operates "on demand," which means it only throws the burner on when water surges through it. Which also means that it will only be on momentarily during a shower or when I'm using the sink. And, by default, I will be awake while it operates. A flip of a switch will turn off the water heater when not in use and a remote solenoid will seal off the propane when it is not needed. The bottom of the sealed water heater locker will have ventilation to allow any potentially leaking gas to escape, as propane gas is heavier than oxygen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First, I cracked open my trusty can of Henry's Roofing sealant. It's flexible, durable, water proof and non-flammable. </div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKcwdJLlUI/AAAAAAAAAos/9sTfCckho8Q/s1600/henrys+can.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKcwdJLlUI/AAAAAAAAAos/9sTfCckho8Q/s320/henrys+can.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKdDfYhSrI/AAAAAAAAAo0/j3rwpx8DLho/s1600/black+painted+canvas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKdDfYhSrI/AAAAAAAAAo0/j3rwpx8DLho/s320/black+painted+canvas.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">An artist at work</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKcWTih1zI/AAAAAAAAAok/wgFaFucYKME/s1600/first+aluminum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKcWTih1zI/AAAAAAAAAok/wgFaFucYKME/s320/first+aluminum.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And there's the first layer of aluminum. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKddHFQ71I/AAAAAAAAAo8/CLP5zCvQf4Y/s1600/empty+locker+with+bars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKddHFQ71I/AAAAAAAAAo8/CLP5zCvQf4Y/s320/empty+locker+with+bars.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, there's the box completely sealed in with aluminum. I treated the corners with a generous helping of Henry's 900 and angle pieces. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I then made the cross beams that will hold the heater.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKd2MR2_hI/AAAAAAAAApE/Rcj3jxoOxko/s1600/close+up+crossbeam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKd2MR2_hI/AAAAAAAAApE/Rcj3jxoOxko/s320/close+up+crossbeam.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKd-D_tvHI/AAAAAAAAApM/a0gw9RM9wRs/s1600/cross+beam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKd-D_tvHI/AAAAAAAAApM/a0gw9RM9wRs/s320/cross+beam.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKeKyfq7_I/AAAAAAAAApU/wqH2VBBC4Bs/s1600/water+heater+standing+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKeKyfq7_I/AAAAAAAAApU/wqH2VBBC4Bs/s320/water+heater+standing+up.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just have to add the lid...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKiXGwbqnI/AAAAAAAAAp8/CuaatckE5Ms/s1600/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKiXGwbqnI/AAAAAAAAAp8/CuaatckE5Ms/s320/photo%5B1%5D.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My girl took such a cool picture, I just had to take a few moments with photoshop.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKitx4-k-I/AAAAAAAAAqE/sxYLod-BJkE/s1600/POSTER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKitx4-k-I/AAAAAAAAAqE/sxYLod-BJkE/s320/POSTER.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My propaganda campaign.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The front will be screwed in with a tight lining of weather seal all the way around. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKedOrxtxI/AAAAAAAAApc/Z9AeeZfcsRY/s1600/flip+up+door+wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKedOrxtxI/AAAAAAAAApc/Z9AeeZfcsRY/s320/flip+up+door+wide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, a flip-up access door will also get a layer of rubber seal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKeqL3As5I/AAAAAAAAApk/svtPI6By6C8/s1600/flip+up+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKeqL3As5I/AAAAAAAAApk/svtPI6By6C8/s320/flip+up+door.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As I said, I will be cutting some holes in the bottom for water and propane access. Those will also serve as ventilation for any wayward gas. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKfJI0rrwI/AAAAAAAAAps/qjX5SKdMdss/s1600/hole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKfJI0rrwI/AAAAAAAAAps/qjX5SKdMdss/s320/hole.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The hole on the backside of the locker will vent the heat to the outside. I have a stainless steel grommet on order that will add a nice cosmetic finish to the hole from outside the vehicle and that will also bridge the gap between the wall and the box, thereby allowing that heat to head only in one direction -- out. Basically, all vent connections heading outward are first male then female. That way, the heat is always guided through the metal tubing and not out through a seam. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along with an additional interior floor vent and a CO2 detector, I believe I've covered my bases.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So what's for dinner after a long hard couple of days of scheming and problem solving? I'm glad you asked. My girl is an awesome cook and I'm the luckiest guy alive. We'll be camping, in no time!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKh-ZzHP3I/AAAAAAAAAp0/ussQ2sOLw38/s1600/spaghetti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/THKh-ZzHP3I/AAAAAAAAAp0/ussQ2sOLw38/s320/spaghetti.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-62921371444041935862010-08-15T21:27:00.000-07:002010-08-15T21:27:30.467-07:00Things Are Happening.If you haven't already figured it out, I work on the Roving Home during my weekends, thus my somewhat regular schedule of updating on Sunday evenings or Monday mornings. Last weekend went rather slowly, so I opted out of posting in favor of quality over quantity. Besides, isn't it true that "absence makes the heart grow fonder," or something? <br />
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I'm currently finishing up what I hope will be the last appliance, so that I may start on the structural assembly. I keep postponing the framing because I keep coming up with more stuff that needs to be planned out before I solidify where all the walls are going. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">This week, the toilet! </div><br />
The toilet has proven to be a fairly complex moving part, since it will slide away when I want to use the shower. I know, call me crazy. I just hate the tiny showers in vans that force you to contort yourself while bending around the base of the toilet bowl. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Here's my solution.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGceNMQtCEI/AAAAAAAAAnA/qBgWE4_BJUg/s1600/metal+platform.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGceNMQtCEI/AAAAAAAAAnA/qBgWE4_BJUg/s320/metal+platform.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Seriously, I need to patent this puppy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, for those of you reading this whose first language is not English, please, don't be alarmed. You can't patent puppies here in America. "Puppy," is slang for something tight and cool. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGceY9Z4I7I/AAAAAAAAAnI/p2Hk3rfb9Cs/s1600/drawer+slide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGceY9Z4I7I/AAAAAAAAAnI/p2Hk3rfb9Cs/s320/drawer+slide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's one of the nifty drawer slides, able to carry loads of 500 pounds! My girl said that will come in handy during her retirement years. I failed to see the humor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGcfjXDdkhI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/34xMS9BVh5Y/s1600/bolts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGcfjXDdkhI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/34xMS9BVh5Y/s320/bolts.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I learned a bit about bolts last week, too. These are made for automotive applications -- good for stress under vibration. Leave it to Ace for lessons in hardware. I love those guys! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGgMp42ZzfI/AAAAAAAAAnY/bNYk9I88-_E/s1600/wood+supports.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGgMp42ZzfI/AAAAAAAAAnY/bNYk9I88-_E/s320/wood+supports.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Add some wooden supports....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGgM8aruczI/AAAAAAAAAng/QEvDIxE3dFQ/s1600/gluing+the+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGgM8aruczI/AAAAAAAAAng/QEvDIxE3dFQ/s320/gluing+the+box.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...and glue up the cosmetic cover.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rather than watch glue dry, my girl and I took an opportunity to spend some quality time together. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGiZKM0_Y7I/AAAAAAAAAnw/-X6nKScz-Lg/s1600/iced+tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGiZKM0_Y7I/AAAAAAAAAnw/-X6nKScz-Lg/s320/iced+tea.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the view from our table.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGi7O416daI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/cRxw9G3H87g/s1600/van+and+trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGi7O416daI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/cRxw9G3H87g/s320/van+and+trees.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Brings a tear to my eye.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I convinced my girl to take the van out to lunch. I said she needed the experience, to which she agreed, albeit with slight trepidation. I think she was a bit embarrassed to be seen in it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, a word about metal fabrication.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For those of you who, like I, have never worked with metal, I'll say that you'd better be spot-on precise with your measuring when drilling holes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The graveyard of waste!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGg_MvEcIbI/AAAAAAAAAno/8oVptIYLC3E/s1600/fabrication.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGg_MvEcIbI/AAAAAAAAAno/8oVptIYLC3E/s320/fabrication.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All of those holes were off by some ridiculously small increment. Working with an organic material such as wood, one can always strong-arm into place a slightly off-sized piece with the tap of the hammer or some clamping and gluing. Not so, grasshopper, with metal fabrication. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, I muscled through it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGicdAl1QZI/AAAAAAAAAn4/NqYcddBvUCE/s1600/gluing+some+more.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGicdAl1QZI/AAAAAAAAAn4/NqYcddBvUCE/s320/gluing+some+more.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The final fascia. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, voila!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGi6Bx6uE8I/AAAAAAAAAoA/_X6RCni0vEs/s1600/toilet+closed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGi6Bx6uE8I/AAAAAAAAAoA/_X6RCni0vEs/s320/toilet+closed.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hear me out!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I know it looks weird, but there's a method to my madness. Obviously that box beneath the toilet seat isn't the last stop for waste, so please, bear with. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But first, look how cool it is that the whole thing will slide out from under a counter top. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGi6xAidEKI/AAAAAAAAAoI/KE25BB3nMO4/s1600/toilet+opened.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TGi6xAidEKI/AAAAAAAAAoI/KE25BB3nMO4/s320/toilet+opened.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The oak box will be stained dark and will be illuminated under a pin-point of bright light, so the drama will overshadow any preconceived notion you may have merely by looking at this picture. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just stick with me before you give up on the Roving Home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The best is yet to come! I promise. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-84939147200221654732010-08-01T20:07:00.000-07:002010-08-02T11:20:53.235-07:00I Need A Beer...This weekend officially kicked my butt. I became a regular at Ace Hardware. The fellas in the store agreed that I should just bring my home improvement project to the back parking lot. Then the clerk added, "Don't worry, you're not the only one who comes back a million times." I think I popped my head in there on five occasions on Saturday. I even left once, drove a half mile and then turned around because I realized I needed something else to go with the very thing I just purchased.<br />
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One of the employees couldn't resist. "Whatchya buildin'?" "An R.V," I replied. "An R-V....okayyyyyyy,"--- a doubter, for sure. I was waiting for the more traditional response, "Why don't you just buy one?" <br />
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The last time I did any sort of carpentry with purpose must have been six years ago. Man, am I rusty. I wanted to put a nice facade on the backside of the bulkhead door. I displayed the sliding door in my last post, but here it is, again.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYnWoKZBaI/AAAAAAAAAlg/GQrHQ6wzaIA/s1600/door+hung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYnWoKZBaI/AAAAAAAAAlg/GQrHQ6wzaIA/s320/door+hung.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I know a seasoned carpenter could probably whip something up in a few hours, but my poky tortoise ways elongated the whole ordeal into a day and a half. I had to bust out my Porter-Cable router to get the job done. Can you believe I've had it for five years and never used it? I first needed to put the darned thing together! That took a few minutes, along with yet another trip to the store to get some router cutting bits. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But, I am pleased to announce that that facade came out pretty nice. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYoogWUYbI/AAAAAAAAAlo/4jtj-x7aP7A/s1600/wood+door.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYoogWUYbI/AAAAAAAAAlo/4jtj-x7aP7A/s320/wood+door.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The greatest hurdle lies in the fact that the door has varying degrees of slope on a few different planes. I thought that the gluing and screwing of each individual board would serve as an efficient way to wrap the facade around the contours of that bent metal cage door, but in hindsight, building the frame with mortise and tenon joinery and adhering it after the fact would probably have served the whole process much better. As I said, I'm still rusty with the woodworking skills. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I like the way the latch worked out. I had to route out the wood from behind and do a little creative carving to reach the hook through that hole. But, I'm pleased.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYqYetaL-I/AAAAAAAAAlw/5CK7uxiKNXk/s1600/latch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYqYetaL-I/AAAAAAAAAlw/5CK7uxiKNXk/s320/latch.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Then, I needed to accommodate the floor guide -- back to the table saw!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYyf2crJfI/AAAAAAAAAmw/m3O-oMuJikM/s1600/door+track.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYyf2crJfI/AAAAAAAAAmw/m3O-oMuJikM/s320/door+track.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The door weighs a ton -- probably not more than the maximum sixty pounds that the sliding rails can accommodate, but pretty close. The thing feels like an old groovy solid-core warehouse door -- great for setting the tone of my build. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A few more things arrived in the mail, this week. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYsCTyoeXI/AAAAAAAAAl4/4smBNrwBZfI/s1600/charge+controller.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYsCTyoeXI/AAAAAAAAAl4/4smBNrwBZfI/s320/charge+controller.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the solar charge controller. It has the "MPPT" technology which stands for "Maximum Power Point Tracking." The unit scans the solar panel and pulls from the brightest producing cells, based on a multitude of factors, and boosts the available power to charge the batteries in the most efficient manner. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And you can monitor the controller from anywhere you choose, with this digital remote screen. It attaches with a normal phone cable. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYssYLhKrI/AAAAAAAAAmA/qK1fYLAHsrk/s1600/digital+read+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYssYLhKrI/AAAAAAAAAmA/qK1fYLAHsrk/s320/digital+read+out.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This thing will tell you the charging state of the batteries, amperage draw and all kinds of other nifty stuff. It's all pretty remarkable technology. I sure hope it works. We'll see. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I also received my roof racks, although I have yet to open the box. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYtZOgCL6I/AAAAAAAAAmI/aw1sWPwvD6E/s1600/roof+rack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYtZOgCL6I/AAAAAAAAAmI/aw1sWPwvD6E/s320/roof+rack.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The solar panel will bolt to the crossbars, along with a basket for whatever comes to mind. The bars span the roof at 8" tall which gives me plenty of clearance for the roof vents. Funny, how things just seem to work out, sometimes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">With a few minutes left before returning the truck to the storage lot, I took the opportunity to mill a bit of the lumber stash. I can't believe that this stuff sat locked in an aluminum truck for a week during summer in California, and hasn't dried out. I burned more calories pushing those heavy wet planks through the table saw than I did on the lifecycle at the gym last week.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Before...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYvZsk1jhI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/mxmbUD9jMrU/s1600/raw+lumber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYvZsk1jhI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/mxmbUD9jMrU/s320/raw+lumber.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYvzODizTI/AAAAAAAAAmg/aITJrs4onTM/s1600/cut+lumber.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYvzODizTI/AAAAAAAAAmg/aITJrs4onTM/s320/cut+lumber.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And I'm still not done, milling. I need to take another inch off that pile on the left. Whew!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, what's next, you ask?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYyFdylvPI/AAAAAAAAAmo/67pSkCZ8-Es/s1600/pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TFYyFdylvPI/AAAAAAAAAmo/67pSkCZ8-Es/s320/pizza.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Why, what else? :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-36608107060687598682010-07-25T16:55:00.000-07:002010-07-26T18:21:51.183-07:00The Great Build -- Day 2It took tens of years and cost thousands of lives, but the great Roving Home rose from the ashes of a crippled civilization. Yes, a little dark humor coming your way from southern California. I think we're due for a "big one," if you know what I mean. At least, that's what's been floating around the media circles as of late. Scientists have stressed concern over the frequency of quakes throughout the southland during the past few months, yet we'll never leave. It's either bear the quakes, or the tornadoes, the hurricanes, blizzards, flooding or God knows what else, depending upon where it is that you call home. My house will be quake proof. So with that covered, I'm more than happy to call sunny SoCal, home.<br />
<br />
When I bought the truck, I asked the owner about the bulkhead door, because only a thin frayed bungee cord held the thing against the wall. Absent were a track, lock, floor guide and wheels. Well, actually there were wheels, but not very good ones.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzE81akd_I/AAAAAAAAAjY/v0NnfLxIBjo/s1600/worn+wheel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzE81akd_I/AAAAAAAAAjY/v0NnfLxIBjo/s320/worn+wheel.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That one is the good one. The other ones lack ball bearings and rubber. My first instinct was to call the stepvan parts website to figure out what I need to hang this thing, until I realized that the website has no phone number. So, basically you have to know exactly what you want, because you're getting zero customer service from those folks. I don't know about you, but if I ran a store, I would make sure that my customers were happy with their purchase, including assistance with their problems. But, what do I know? They lost business from me because I didn't know what I should order. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There's a gap in the door that's supposed to have something in it. I think it's the locking mechanism.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzGFG48muI/AAAAAAAAAjg/bfoWSNgF82g/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzGFG48muI/AAAAAAAAAjg/bfoWSNgF82g/s320/2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have no idea.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Is that the back side of the door or the front side?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzGV2todpI/AAAAAAAAAjw/sacCzlBUVq8/s1600/door+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzGV2todpI/AAAAAAAAAjw/sacCzlBUVq8/s320/door+1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was clueless. So I called Utilimaster, left a message with their parts department and never heard back. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Off to Ace Hardware!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzGlVscJkI/AAAAAAAAAj4/TPOsQ4lv7uI/s1600/door+hanger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzGlVscJkI/AAAAAAAAAj4/TPOsQ4lv7uI/s320/door+hanger.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The knowledgeable guy directed me right to the sliding door aisle where I found this track, suitable for 60 pound loads. I wasn't sure if my door was 60 pounds, so I first stepped on my scale -- YIKES -- then stepped on it again with the door in hand. Low and behold, 41.9 pounds. Woohoo!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzHwlV48wI/AAAAAAAAAkA/7FF_lht8dLo/s1600/door+hung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzHwlV48wI/AAAAAAAAAkA/7FF_lht8dLo/s320/door+hung.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, here's the door, back in action. The angled piece actually guides the spring lock into place. As you slide the door, the guide squeezes the spring lock downward until the lock reaches the end of the line. The lock then pops back up, thereby securing the door. Pretty basic mechanics.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzIcuiOyCI/AAAAAAAAAkI/rMVRa19Ic9Y/s1600/door+closed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzIcuiOyCI/AAAAAAAAAkI/rMVRa19Ic9Y/s320/door+closed.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From the front, in the driver's cab, you just push your finger through the hole, lower the hook and slide open the door.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzKH4TtOoI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/D8I65dsAR70/s1600/door+latch+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzKH4TtOoI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/D8I65dsAR70/s320/door+latch+front.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From inside the Roving Home, you just lower the hook.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzKP6FAvWI/AAAAAAAAAkY/i-HRuoHJvbo/s1600/door+latch+rear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzKP6FAvWI/AAAAAAAAAkY/i-HRuoHJvbo/s320/door+latch+rear.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anyway, I'm yawning just talking about this. Probably should have just left it out, except for the fact that I spent all weekend putting this together. Let's not forget the floor guide, too. It just so happens that two identical pieces of angle iron worked out perfectly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzKqr7GJSI/AAAAAAAAAkg/3PDofEhAzDw/s1600/floor+guide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzKqr7GJSI/AAAAAAAAAkg/3PDofEhAzDw/s320/floor+guide.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Each bag there represents a trip to the hardware store. Whew!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzK2iRX07I/AAAAAAAAAko/bV4Igb_sYNY/s1600/trip+to+the+store.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzK2iRX07I/AAAAAAAAAko/bV4Igb_sYNY/s320/trip+to+the+store.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But wait, there's more! Before I start my framing, I have to finish that door. It's going to be blocked in as soon as I build my walls, so I have to do the finishing work now. I had to take a deep breath and switch gears, for finish carpentry requires a whole different attention to detail and focus. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I figured I'd kill several birds with one stone and do a bulk lumber purchase to get a good start out of the gate. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzLbxOwSII/AAAAAAAAAkw/_y0HJ5D1xcM/s1600/lumber+cart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzLbxOwSII/AAAAAAAAAkw/_y0HJ5D1xcM/s320/lumber+cart.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stocking up!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzLi3le2pI/AAAAAAAAAk4/qsuMSpQn66U/s1600/lumber+in+truck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzLi3le2pI/AAAAAAAAAk4/qsuMSpQn66U/s320/lumber+in+truck.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Heading out!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzLp244K4I/AAAAAAAAAlA/xuVHWleLK50/s1600/parking+lot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzLp244K4I/AAAAAAAAAlA/xuVHWleLK50/s320/parking+lot.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Looks like she plays well with the rest of the cars. She minds her own business, and they mind theirs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, the front side of the bulkhead door will remain rough and industrial. I'm rather partial to that look...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzNDWaBU9I/AAAAAAAAAlY/WZItXKvMRQM/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzNDWaBU9I/AAAAAAAAAlY/WZItXKvMRQM/s320/1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> But the rear must remain civilized and will be finished appropriately.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzMEaSDYzI/AAAAAAAAAlI/ivzRZ3hHRNk/s1600/gluing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzMEaSDYzI/AAAAAAAAAlI/ivzRZ3hHRNk/s320/gluing.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A little light gluing...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzMMFqJO8I/AAAAAAAAAlQ/XMnVoA6leUA/s1600/clamping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEzMMFqJO8I/AAAAAAAAAlQ/XMnVoA6leUA/s320/clamping.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A little light clamping...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And we'll let all that fresh wet and sticky lumber dry out over the week -- preheat truck to 115 and leave for 5 days in the baking sun. That'll do it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Until next time... </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-67376572406225157172010-07-18T23:06:00.000-07:002010-07-19T07:39:59.516-07:00The Desire To CreateMy girl and I shared a glass - after we each polished off our own personal glasses - of our favorite locally brewed craft beer, "California Black," made by the Dale Bros Brewery here in Upland, California. The temperature hadn't peaked out as high as it had earlier in the week, but I sure did welcome that frosty mug of "Barley Pop," after a long day of scheming, testing and fantasizing about my future.<br />
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Anyway, we both agreed that a driving passion in one's life adds much fulfillment to our days spent away from work. She's embarking on her first book, and I of course, have taken upon the task of building an entire house in 92 square feet - nutty. But we're both excited about the potential. She's already filling up her notebook with one-pot campfire meals, and today I reminded her of the small propane oven made by Brinkman that could accommodate her Sunday morning scones, quite nicely. We clinked our glasses in honor of good times ahead.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPa7kqIwcI/AAAAAAAAAg4/3oYOj2_Zc6c/s1600/computer+screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPa7kqIwcI/AAAAAAAAAg4/3oYOj2_Zc6c/s320/computer+screen.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From a computer rendering to the real thing -- pretty cool.</div><br />
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We spent the weekend in collaboration, as the seeds of the Roving Home have finally begun to bear fruit. My application of blue tape on the interior walls of the van brought the vision to life. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPou3gEBPI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/owLZM5AHIBg/s1600/blue+tape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPou3gEBPI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/owLZM5AHIBg/s320/blue+tape.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Prior to that, I'd often watch as her eyes would glaze over while I espoused the merits of AGM batteries and MPPT solar charge controllers. <br />
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But now, our exchange was lively. We analyzed and contemplated where this and that will go in order to appease each of our individual desires -- as if you can have any sort of individuality in such small living quarters.<br />
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I spent most of the weekend simply translating my perfect world vision into the reality of what I have to work with. As I began to tape off the walls and partitions, the oversights became glaringly clear.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPb3rvS-hI/AAAAAAAAAhA/9mCBpWIZQts/s1600/tape+-+sconce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPb3rvS-hI/AAAAAAAAAhA/9mCBpWIZQts/s320/tape+-+sconce.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPcZ3hgnOI/AAAAAAAAAhI/JngoQMi4sEw/s1600/cabinet+drawers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPcZ3hgnOI/AAAAAAAAAhI/JngoQMi4sEw/s320/cabinet+drawers.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I panicked, at one point, after suddenly realizing that the 12 volt receptacles might just stick out further than my slim junction box backing. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sure enough!</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPd9yp_gRI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/rkFMniupr34/s1600/junction+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPd9yp_gRI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/rkFMniupr34/s320/junction+box.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's fine. I'll cut a hole in back because within the wall, I've got two inches total to work with. I think I alleviated any more sleepless nights. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPeRubztaI/AAAAAAAAAhY/52S7cJ2KhGM/s1600/2+inches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPeRubztaI/AAAAAAAAAhY/52S7cJ2KhGM/s320/2+inches.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another concern of mine, as of late, is whether or not extending the wiring to the switch on the hot water heater is such a brilliant move. The thing runs off of 2 D cells. Yet, it still has all of the components of a normal water heater. Too good to be true? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPfJAAaPII/AAAAAAAAAhg/mS9PzDELPnQ/s1600/water+heater+guts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPfJAAaPII/AAAAAAAAAhg/mS9PzDELPnQ/s320/water+heater+guts.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Since the system only runs on 3 volts and I want the switch to be about 5 feet away, I thought it best to do a test, rather than to spend a painful weekend installing the plumbing system only to realize later on that the voltage drop would be too great to fire the thing up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the switch now -- not a handy place to work with.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPf3mwUwxI/AAAAAAAAAho/dbFXPJZkjdg/s1600/water+heater+switch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPf3mwUwxI/AAAAAAAAAho/dbFXPJZkjdg/s320/water+heater+switch.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I recited a quick prayer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPgJyDgIjI/AAAAAAAAAhw/jTsD1vsYh3s/s1600/snip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPgJyDgIjI/AAAAAAAAAhw/jTsD1vsYh3s/s320/snip.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Snip!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A wave of nausea suddenly overcame me. What have I done?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPhpsHgvKI/AAAAAAAAAh4/VaDws5S8W3g/s1600/bare+wire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPhpsHgvKI/AAAAAAAAAh4/VaDws5S8W3g/s320/bare+wire.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I added about 4.5 feet of wire and crimped on some terminals...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPiCOGKgeI/AAAAAAAAAiA/2hZw2DiXM_g/s1600/tabs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPiCOGKgeI/AAAAAAAAAiA/2hZw2DiXM_g/s320/tabs.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A new switch...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPif1Z5S5I/AAAAAAAAAiI/9D1W8TbTR5c/s1600/switch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPif1Z5S5I/AAAAAAAAAiI/9D1W8TbTR5c/s320/switch.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And it worked! Holy mackerel! The burner fired up ( you can see the propane tank in the background).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Next! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I've been tossing around the idea of just how I'm going to get all of the outlets I need at the dinette to work efficiently and aesthetically. I want to have A.C. power, D.C. power and a USB connector to the computer printer. The whole point is to avoid a spiderweb of wiring all over the place. I just want to be able to sit at the dinette with my laptop and plug it into the wall for charging and have print capabilities from the cabinet beside the dinette. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are the components.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPjrQJpJqI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/To5UR0ifXWY/s1600/the+parts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPjrQJpJqI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/To5UR0ifXWY/s320/the+parts.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I started by drilling some holes with the new press. Man, a drill press is where it's at! Let me tell you. I can't believe I didn't buy one sooner. Whew!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just line it up...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPkNEB1EgI/AAAAAAAAAiY/RZ-2NeaMVts/s1600/drill+press.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPkNEB1EgI/AAAAAAAAAiY/RZ-2NeaMVts/s320/drill+press.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, there you have it. I did, however, have to do a little bit of fine tuning with the hand held rotozip. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPkqGyudHI/AAAAAAAAAig/5Nj3ku1r3GU/s1600/recepticle+plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPkqGyudHI/AAAAAAAAAig/5Nj3ku1r3GU/s320/recepticle+plate.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I went O.C.D. on the unfinished look of the U.S.B. hole, there. Back to Home Depot for the fourth time, today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ahhhhhhhh, that's better.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPlQoK-CwI/AAAAAAAAAio/Ld1tR5OSODU/s1600/OCD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPlQoK-CwI/AAAAAAAAAio/Ld1tR5OSODU/s320/OCD.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, that happened. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Next was a little test of the recessed light fixtures. You've seen these before, if you're one of the 5 people who regularly view this blog. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPlwyqHPkI/AAAAAAAAAiw/-L_3dINK3h0/s1600/1+watt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPlwyqHPkI/AAAAAAAAAiw/-L_3dINK3h0/s320/1+watt.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They're 1 watt and they're crazy bright. But, I called the manufacturer and asked them if I could buy the cans that they mount into. The guy said you just need to drill a hole where you want them and stick them into the ceiling, springs first. I wasn't so sure about that. It didn't seem right and I needed to verify. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There's the test hole. I know I've done better jobs with the rotozip, but it's only a test. Pretend it's perfectly round.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPmfAtvBVI/AAAAAAAAAi4/_NADD2AO1KQ/s1600/test+hole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPmfAtvBVI/AAAAAAAAAi4/_NADD2AO1KQ/s320/test+hole.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pulling the springs back, I carefully inserted the housing, and WHAM, the springs slapped down onto the wood, locking the whole lamp into place. Who would have thought?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPm5xeskaI/AAAAAAAAAjA/lpA0qgYa8Po/s1600/light+springs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPm5xeskaI/AAAAAAAAAjA/lpA0qgYa8Po/s320/light+springs.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, for those of you who don't remember, the housing pivots. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPnbBbZDMI/AAAAAAAAAjI/rOLHyba0SEE/s1600/pivot+light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TEPnbBbZDMI/AAAAAAAAAjI/rOLHyba0SEE/s320/pivot+light.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Talk about "groovy," right?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, that was my weekend. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-41568622166066226252010-07-11T21:58:00.000-07:002010-07-13T06:19:09.129-07:00Let the games begin -- DAY 1Big week, here. I received a few goodies in the mail. First, my stereo speakers. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpV30GeXWI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/Q2a-3L5GpVE/s1600/speakers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpV30GeXWI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/Q2a-3L5GpVE/s320/speakers.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Years and years ago, I replaced the factory speakers in my brand new "off the showroom floor" Toyota Tercel with Pioneers, and they sounded pretty fab. So I'm going with them, again. Also, it seems as though Pioneer is the only company that makes speaker covers that don't have a "dance club DJ" statement to make. I really don't need a screen that looks like an alien robot eye bursting through my ceiling. And, if you've shopped for speakers within the past few years, you'll know what I mean. It seems as though every manufacturer wants to make a techno-statement with their car speakers, and they accent them with either bright alloy colors or loud architectural styling that seems more appropriate in a Japanese street racer than in the Roving Home. However, Pioneer still carries the old-school torch. So, I'm sticking with it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I stopped by Home Depot for a few accessories.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpYIEg_NCI/AAAAAAAAAfY/Js-QYI091kI/s1600/electrical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpYIEg_NCI/AAAAAAAAAfY/Js-QYI091kI/s320/electrical.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My favorite is that super slim plastic junction box. That'll work nicely within my 2 inch walls, especially in plastic, since I'm running two different power sources to the same box. I also bought some zip ties and parts for my A.C. circuit breaker hub.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After pulling my rig from the storage lot over to the shop, I took my first real look at the interior and surmised the road ahead. I pulled down a bit of the aluminum drop-ceiling and scoped out the liner -- of course, the old fashioned stuff. Not very efficient. How times have changed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpZVlsbFgI/AAAAAAAAAfg/fx-wcqvvIM8/s1600/insulation+in+roof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpZVlsbFgI/AAAAAAAAAfg/fx-wcqvvIM8/s320/insulation+in+roof.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was the standard in 1997. Under direct sunlight, the ceiling was scorching hot to the touch!</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpZppGpxUI/AAAAAAAAAfo/Zq0YrbpA2zc/s1600/hand+and+ceiling+piece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpZppGpxUI/AAAAAAAAAfo/Zq0YrbpA2zc/s320/hand+and+ceiling+piece.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, I began by stripping the whole thing down to the framework. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">BEFORE!</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpZ-5P14dI/AAAAAAAAAfw/yylDG7aQlEw/s1600/ceiling+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpZ-5P14dI/AAAAAAAAAfw/yylDG7aQlEw/s320/ceiling+before.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">AFTER!</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpaRSaXzGI/AAAAAAAAAf4/zUv-YKM7iZk/s1600/stripped+ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDpaRSaXzGI/AAAAAAAAAf4/zUv-YKM7iZk/s320/stripped+ceiling.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grinding off all of the rivets was no special treat. But, at least it went quick. How bad could anything be in an 8' x 12' space, right?</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, here's the deal with insulation. We've all been a bit misinformed as to how the new ultra-thin metallic stuff really works. I spoke with a company in Houston last week. They sell this stuff to contractors all over the country who build metal structures, and this is what Gary said: </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You actually need two layers with an air gap in between. The first layer touches the metal of the wall or ceiling. The second layer gets pulled taught between the studs, 1 inch away. Another air gap should exist between the second layer of insulation and your inner wall. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I told him I'm counting on 2 inch walls which he said were very deep for an RV and that with my design plan, the insulation will be, "everything you could ever hope for." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Most people slap this stuff right up against the metal, but the radiant heat is still going to bake your interior. It's the air gap that really slows down the penetration of heat. I know RV manufacturers couldn't care less about this stuff, and that's part of the reason I've decided to build my own vehicle. They could easily design those interiors, minus an extra inch on either side, in an attempt to reduce the need to blast a generator all day long for A.C. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That, right there, is 500sq. ft., $179.00 with shipping. Not bad at all, and worth every penny.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqX5OpxSOI/AAAAAAAAAgA/2t_diQHLScA/s1600/insulation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqX5OpxSOI/AAAAAAAAAgA/2t_diQHLScA/s320/insulation.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now for the fun part -- designing the build.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqaaZ4F7GI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/tFEgzutpPg0/s1600/master+with+tape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqaaZ4F7GI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/tFEgzutpPg0/s320/master+with+tape.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Two inch painter's tape will serve nicely, considering my walls will be constructed of 1" x 2" lumber. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqaPhh1fTI/AAAAAAAAAgI/gkoIy5t2XkY/s1600/bathroom+and+galley+tape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqaPhh1fTI/AAAAAAAAAgI/gkoIy5t2XkY/s320/bathroom+and+galley+tape.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To the left is the bathroom with a shower. Beside it, up onto the wall is the outline of the galley counter. You can't really tell from the perspective of a point and shoot camera, but the shower space is actually quite comfortably sized. So, I guess I imagined that, correctly.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's where I'll have to reconfigure.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqbJVIChRI/AAAAAAAAAgY/FqxZPWW2YDU/s1600/dinette+tape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqbJVIChRI/AAAAAAAAAgY/FqxZPWW2YDU/s320/dinette+tape.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The wheel well sticks up right in the middle of the dinette. My girl suggested I build the table a bit larger in order to accommodate a chair and a stool. That way we can sit 90 degrees from one another without banging our knees together. The stool will tuck under the table in transit, to be pulled out for a meal, and one half of the dinette will remain as a built-in. The chair will be as high as the stool but will be built on top of the wheel well. Problem solved! </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> A little homage, once again, to "old school."</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqcAfNQ5XI/AAAAAAAAAgg/1Q1b7EvSOZA/s1600/ace+bag+on+ground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqcAfNQ5XI/AAAAAAAAAgg/1Q1b7EvSOZA/s320/ace+bag+on+ground.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How can you not love the brown paper bag from the local hardware store where the old guy who knows where everything is will tell you exactly how to use everything in the store! And, it's three blocks from the shop -- lots of return visits during the next couple of months.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I also took the opportunity to remove a waste water tank that came with the vehicle. Too bad it only holds 32 gallons and doesn't fit in with the undercarriage design. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqdenzBlaI/AAAAAAAAAgo/LQ_W3BCTz4I/s320/sparks.jpg" /></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pulled that puppy out!</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqdluqj3DI/AAAAAAAAAgw/yTNy_G0sL3A/s1600/holding+tank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" rw="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TDqdluqj3DI/AAAAAAAAAgw/yTNy_G0sL3A/s320/holding+tank.jpg" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I told my girl that if she has nothing better to do during her time off, then perhaps she could find some entertainment value in placing an ad on Craigslist during the week. I figure 20 bucks is worth it. It's in perfect condition. After she gets no calls for 20, I told her to drop it to "free." </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Must keep the supply line moving! The trash builds up fast. </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-34071042956692940622010-06-27T18:20:00.000-07:002010-06-29T15:03:21.561-07:00Down To Reality"R&D" has come to a close, and I feel as if I just said goodbye to an old friend. I must put the "Roving Home" fantasy to rest and sharpen my home improvement skills for the next stage. The time has come for me to start this build. <br />
<br />
If you haven't figured it out by now, I made the purchase. I am the proud owner of a very orange 1997 International Utilimaster. And it is quite the vessel.<br />
<br />
I met Frank at the "Department of Motor Vehicles" office of my choice, explaining to him that the only way I would perform the transaction would be to do it under the direct blessing of the State of California. And, really, what could he say? He had a stack of paperwork including three bills of sale between three unique parties, yet he possessed no pink slip. I told him I was ready with cash in hand and he desperately needed to sell -- something about his daughter's wedding and the embarrassment of having to move in with your parents at the age of forty-seven. I felt kind of bad for him.<br />
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Normally, I schedule appointments at the DMV ahead of time, and I don't think I've ever stepped foot inside a branch office other than for my first driving test and subsequent renewals of my driver's license. Transfers of ownership I have always done through the mail, so I really can't fathom what all of those people were doing in front of the DMV an hour before opening. But, the earliest appointment was weeks away. So, we decided to go for it. The line rivaled those at amusement parks for the newest attraction on opening day.<br />
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<div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCbAOTolHVI/AAAAAAAAAeI/g2HDoIbO2Vk/s1600/dmv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCbAOTolHVI/AAAAAAAAAeI/g2HDoIbO2Vk/s320/dmv.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Honestly, I was sort of dreading the whole experience. I mean, who wants to stand for forty-five minutes beside your adversary in a business transaction? Awkwarrrrrrrrrrd!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I also wasn't thrilled about the wad of cash I had in my bag. What if someone followed me from the bank? You never know. </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfvgPqxkNI/AAAAAAAAAeY/8idmcBPoKCQ/s1600/five+grand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfvgPqxkNI/AAAAAAAAAeY/8idmcBPoKCQ/s320/five+grand.jpg" /></a></div><br />
When I walked up and met him in line I asked him where the van was. " I left it at home, because I didn't have a ride back." The perspiration on my upper lip was building.<br />
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Finally, we zig-zagged our way through the doors and up the steps to window "A." Taking two front row seats, we settled in until our number was called. During that time, the ice began to melt, and Frank confided in me that he shouldered a tremendous amount of stress right now in his life. He hasn't seen his children in three months since having come down to southern California for the express purpose of selling the vehicle. He's been trying for several years to climb out of the hole left by an ugly divorce, and he said that he's tired of all of the back-stabbers and opportunists that make up Los Angeles. I said it's the nature of the big city and I'll bet that people in Chicago lock their doors at night, also. But I didn't want to add salt in the wound.<br />
<br />
While at the counter, we fielded a handful of questions from the moderately enthusiastic customer care representative. I love "customer care." It's one of my all time favorite corporate terms. But I digress.<br />
<br />
She asked why the "release of liability" form was dated for tomorrow... <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Start over. New form. </div><br />
She then asked why there were two VIN's in all of the paperwork. "Well, the truck has one and the motor has another." She asked me what my weight capacities were going to be and then tallied up our answers. The registration wound up being over a thousand dollars in fees and surcharges -- almost double what Frank had assured me it would be. Nonetheless, the van was now mine. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfvK8oSKII/AAAAAAAAAeQ/mW-2__gfhBs/s1600/Reg+card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfvK8oSKII/AAAAAAAAAeQ/mW-2__gfhBs/s320/Reg+card.jpg" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><br />
On the way back to his house, he missed a freeway turn off while fiddling nervously with his GPS. "I'm all tore up about the cost of that registration. I can't even drive right. Let's take off a couple hundred bucks. I'm really sorry."<br />
<br />
We arrived at his house, and I flopped down two envelopes. I counted out the total, minus two hundred. He walked into the next room, looking for the manuals. I remarked to myself how easily I could have peeled two bills from the stack he left in plain view, and he probably would have never known it. He really was a trustworthy guy from a small northern town.<br />
<br />
Upon his return to the kitchen, he reached for the stack of bills and slid out a crisp hundred. "Here. You already gave me a deposit." Yep, a good guy, indeed. I had forgotten about that.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">I climbed in and roared off under the hot summer sun. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">At work, I either say it or hear it nearly every day, "...the right tool, for the right job." I've been missing a couple of key components for the Roving Home laboratory, and those are a table saw and drill press. I kick myself every time I think about giving away my last table saw upon completion of my home remodel. But it was sitting around collecting dust because I had nowhere to put it. I literally gave it away on craigslist. Not one person wanted it for even a paltry fifty bucks. Finally, someone came by to get it...for free! And after the guy loaded it into his truck he handed me two twenties. "I can't just take this for nothing, man. Go buy yourself a case of beer." It was a Delta contractor's saw, belt drive, with an iron table top. I bought it for $160.00, and it was probably $400.00 new. So, I guess it wasn't so bad.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But, the real treat is that I picked up my new tools and set them up in the garage. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Look at these beauties!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfzJdd_9bI/AAAAAAAAAeg/1eoDcFLknVE/s1600/drill+press+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfzJdd_9bI/AAAAAAAAAeg/1eoDcFLknVE/s320/drill+press+1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfz8f6VCnI/AAAAAAAAAeo/NsVSPCWtR3w/s1600/Table+Saw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCfz8f6VCnI/AAAAAAAAAeo/NsVSPCWtR3w/s320/Table+Saw.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3hp -- Psyched! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, I completed my Iport mounting box. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf1HtRhjLI/AAAAAAAAAew/Cfe0XtM9Iu8/s1600/Iport+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf1HtRhjLI/AAAAAAAAAew/Cfe0XtM9Iu8/s320/Iport+back.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I framed the black plastic port with wood and then cut out a larger frame that will be hung flush with the studs. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf1VbPdxHI/AAAAAAAAAe4/Uw2JuJGWmfo/s1600/Iport+finished+behind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf1VbPdxHI/AAAAAAAAAe4/Uw2JuJGWmfo/s320/Iport+finished+behind.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And, that's what it will look like from inside the electrical closet. The front will just look like a standard wall outlet pressed into a wall opening.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf1l6R-n5I/AAAAAAAAAfA/ZMYzS2G-Vr4/s1600/Iport+with+frame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf1l6R-n5I/AAAAAAAAAfA/ZMYzS2G-Vr4/s320/Iport+with+frame.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I also picked up my stereo. It has an auxiliary "in" from behind, so the iport cables will be run seamlessly through the walls right to the back of the stereo. And, it's got a remote. I can turn on my music from the comfort of my very own bed. How excellent is that? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf2TfoAAqI/AAAAAAAAAfI/cwno_JQMd_8/s1600/Stereo+tuner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TCf2TfoAAqI/AAAAAAAAAfI/cwno_JQMd_8/s320/Stereo+tuner.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just waiting on speakers. They're due to arrive any day, now. </div><br />
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-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-81352598264430148652010-06-19T23:00:00.000-07:002010-06-19T23:07:35.563-07:00It's on!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Well, you're not going to believe this...but I'm buying the van. Woohoo! Yep, the very same one I featured a few weeks back has remained for sale, unwanted and unclaimed. The owner dropped the price by nearly $2,000.00. So, I called him back. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2nisd169I/AAAAAAAAAdA/Y-eQa0K_IzI/s1600/Test+Drive+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2nisd169I/AAAAAAAAAdA/Y-eQa0K_IzI/s320/Test+Drive+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's built like a Brinks truck, with a T44 diesel motor and an Allison transmission. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2n3rjHPXI/AAAAAAAAAdI/OqLbm1oI3Yw/s1600/Test+Drive+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2n3rjHPXI/AAAAAAAAAdI/OqLbm1oI3Yw/s320/Test+Drive+3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Frank tossed me the keys and said, "Let's go for a ride!" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Giddy," is the operative term, here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2oOUCPLmI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/0SxunBAVSc8/s1600/Test+Drive+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2oOUCPLmI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/0SxunBAVSc8/s320/Test+Drive+4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I gingerly took it through the paces. It sure sticks to the road, no bumps or creaks. The steering is solid and the engine purrs like it's brand new off the showroom floor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">He said that no one wanted it, and that too many picky buyers had all kinds of finicky demands. For some, it wasn't long enough, and for others it was too tall. He was a day away from just throwing in the towel and parting it out piece by piece on ebay.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2pUs3ze0I/AAAAAAAAAdY/RdL8ozoAyv0/s1600/Test+Drive+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2pUs3ze0I/AAAAAAAAAdY/RdL8ozoAyv0/s320/Test+Drive+5.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, here's where it gets weird. He actually bought it from a friend who bought it from another friend and the title never actually changed hands -- to which I raised an eyebrow. "Oh, no, bro, I've done lots of these transactions. You just need a paperless registration. No problem." I said, "Great, then let's go to the DMV window together and transfer ownership at the counter. If they'll buy it, then I'll buy it. How 'bout them apples?" So, we're meeting at the DMV on Wednesday morning. My gut feeling is that he's probably right, because he didn't hesitate in his story and he's willing to go with me right to the source. So, we'll see. I'll post the results later in the week.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On a lighter note...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2qq19jaFI/AAAAAAAAAdg/tkPxglaI7kE/s1600/Faucet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2qq19jaFI/AAAAAAAAAdg/tkPxglaI7kE/s320/Faucet.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My faucet arrived. Look at that piece of craftsmanship -- wall mounted, with a 90 degree swiveling neck. And, the faucet arm rotates 360 degrees. So, you can drink out of it like a water fountain if you wanted too. How crazy is that? The valve component that attaches to the water supply within in the wall costs nearly double the price of those two chrome pieces. Sheesh! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Next...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2rOho_ghI/AAAAAAAAAdo/I4zhIT9BhNk/s1600/Freedom+Inverter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2rOho_ghI/AAAAAAAAAdo/I4zhIT9BhNk/s320/Freedom+Inverter.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My inverter arrived. That's 1000 watts with a 20amp three stage charger, as well. Pretty darned hi-tech if you ask me. And, that panel with the LCD display is removable!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2rmXbWIvI/AAAAAAAAAdw/qRVPAhuI2v0/s1600/Freedom+Panel+Removed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2rmXbWIvI/AAAAAAAAAdw/qRVPAhuI2v0/s320/Freedom+Panel+Removed.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It comes with a 10' foot extension so you can mount the panel on a wall, nearby. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2r9ikRJyI/AAAAAAAAAd4/sOZtJf-VWao/s1600/Freedom+Wall+Panel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TB2r9ikRJyI/AAAAAAAAAd4/sOZtJf-VWao/s320/Freedom+Wall+Panel.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Amazing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Needless to say, I'm beside myself. It was as if Christmas sprinkled a little holiday joy over my house, this weekend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
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</div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-70559139011464402542010-06-07T19:12:00.000-07:002010-06-07T19:24:54.767-07:00Final Design -- Version 2.0Hey, Apple does it, so I can, too. <br />
<br />
The changes will not stop until the task is complete. Or, "The floggings will continue until morale improves." <br />
<br />
I'm well aware that sticking to a design is crucial for the success of a very elaborate puzzle. And, this is a gigantic undertaking. People are kind of baffled as to why I'm doing it. The corners of their mouth turn up slightly, smirking with disbelief. I'm essentially building a house. All of the same elements of construction and design will contribute to the success of this creative endeavor. I'm kind of viewing it as part function, part art form, part experience to add to my life's "Book of things I've accomplished."<br />
<br />
I really can't allow myself to fail at this task because I've blabbed about it to far too many people There's no turning back, now. Embarrassment looms over me like a black cloud.<br />
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I'm only on this earth one time, so I'd better try all kinds of cool stuff, right?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Enough blabbing...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TA2fhiycs6I/AAAAAAAAAcg/F-pO5SyAEbA/s1600/3d+Model+4a+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TA2fhiycs6I/AAAAAAAAAcg/F-pO5SyAEbA/s320/3d+Model+4a+copy.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The overhead cabinets are now going to have a translucent panel in each door. LED light strips will line the inside edge of the cabinet, giving a glow through the panels at night. Wired through a separate switch - they will be flipped on only when necessary. Also, I think the translucence will add depth to the cabinetry that will make the living space seem a bit larger and less confining. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Behind the dinette, in the background, notice the two raised panels that look like file drawers with finger pulls. The top one will flip up and the bottom one will flip down, creating a recessed bar with an additional small counter top. The coffee maker and blender will be in there. Swanky. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now for my next trick.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm adding a heater. I was denying its value for awhile. My rationale that the 2" insulation would encapsulate enough body heat during the night to make it comfortable is probably wishful thinking. My girl and I will be going places that can get pretty cold (not necessarily freezing), so I readjusted things to accommodate a necessary creature comfort. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <img border="0" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TA2ighEI_4I/AAAAAAAAAco/ddcfTi7UnVU/s320/NEWPORT-DICKINSON-HEATER-PROPANE.jpg" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's a real flame. It's like a mini fireplace. My girl thinks it will add some very nice ambiance, and I respectfully agree. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the application</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TA2jX5xeCKI/AAAAAAAAAcw/L5r8PoUblsA/s1600/3d+Model+4b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TA2jX5xeCKI/AAAAAAAAAcw/L5r8PoUblsA/s320/3d+Model+4b.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To the right of the heater is the entrance to the bathroom. The wall tile you can see is not really what's going to end up there. Four by six inch aluminum tile will line the wall, but that stone texture I've selected is the only one that this program offers that's kind of similar. It's only a suggestion. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And finally, the bathroom vanity...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TA2j_7BHUgI/AAAAAAAAAc4/oLkwHeuP_SM/s1600/3d+Model+4c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TA2j_7BHUgI/AAAAAAAAAc4/oLkwHeuP_SM/s320/3d+Model+4c.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On either side of the mirror you can see the illuminated panels with LED light strips behind them. On the left, protruding from the wall is the sconce I featured a couple of weeks ago that I converted to 12 volt. The wood will be very dark and there will be a nice spot light over the sink. A nice linen shower curtain will wrap about a third of the way around, blocking the doorway and the vanity. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh, and a funny sidebar: A guy at the airport this weekend saw my fiddling around with the 3d model and asked me if I was an interior designer. "No," I replied as I flipped my scarf to the other shoulder. Seriously, he wants to design a room addition and I think I could have swindled a few bucks out of him. Too bad he lives in Seattle. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nonetheless, he complimented the layout, and that was nice to hear. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Okay, done....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...i think. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>-- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9115468056940472779.post-43280607394326339992010-06-02T07:19:00.000-07:002010-06-02T07:21:24.943-07:00Final design...I promise.My schedule has operated on overload, as I spend my weekdays working a very demanding full time job. I have also taken a weekend freelance gig, so needless to say, progress on the great Roving Home project has encountered some setbacks. But never fear, for I have gained a profound understanding of the whole picture by spending quality time with my basic design. <br />
<br />
I've reviewed, revised, realigned and retooled the Roving Home. And, with the help of Google's remarkable software, "Sketch Up," I have made some amazing discoveries.<br />
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After staring for weeks at a two dimensional line drawing that I created in Photoshop, I just couldn't wrap my brain around details that only three dimensional rendering could flesh out. From scratch, I patiently assembled a model of my interior and solved a nagging problem that I had brushed under the rug with the thinking that once I get the vehicle, "I'll just figure it out." Laziness leads to haste, and as the old adage goes, "Haste makes waste." <br />
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I have no desire to stand in the middle of my van after driving it home to a garage painstakingly prepared with accessories and tools, only to start my build first by wondering just where in the heck I'm going to start my build. Time is money, and right now I've got only a few scattered moments here and there to toss the puzzle around in my brain. <br />
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Here's the first rendering I did during my lunch break, spread out over a few days. <br />
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<div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXYqgeJNmI/AAAAAAAAAb4/z_ACoqO9JPc/s1600/3d+Model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXYqgeJNmI/AAAAAAAAAb4/z_ACoqO9JPc/s320/3d+Model.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's an overhead view of the galley. The recessed gray areas represent the stainless steel sink basin and stove top. Stainless steel sheets will line the two gray walls that surround the galley counter top.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXhop2dxpI/AAAAAAAAAcA/ZuPn73C52_M/s1600/3d+Model+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXhop2dxpI/AAAAAAAAAcA/ZuPn73C52_M/s320/3d+Model+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This a reverse of the previous angle, featuring the dinette with a foreground view of the bathroom. Above the dinette table, you can see what represents the wall sconce I made a couple months ago. That unit serves as a light source and also as a light box that will illuminate my photographic transparencies. I can create a vacation image right from my ink-jet printer and fix it to the light box for an instant gallery change-over. I must have art in my life. To create is to live. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is where Sketch UP made me see the light.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXmWya29jI/AAAAAAAAAcI/8jus9zNPpG8/s1600/3d+Model+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXmWya29jI/AAAAAAAAAcI/8jus9zNPpG8/s320/3d+Model+3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The bed platform, made with a slatted wood mattress support, will expand as it is pulled forward over the counter top on the right and the ledge on the left. The double stacked foam layers will then be spread out, side by side, thereby creating a queen sized bed. In reviewing the first picture, you'll notice the spice rack on the counter top. That small ridge will border the bed frame on one side, while the wall will contain it on the opposite side. I found a very fancy wall mounted faucet that swings to one side. </div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXoE8o-7BI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/uB8Z4CSLsOM/s1600/wall+faucet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAXoE8o-7BI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/uB8Z4CSLsOM/s320/wall+faucet.jpg" /></a></div>You don't want to know how much that thing costs, but it's worth every penny, because it solves a great problem with one fell swoop with simplicity and elegance. I almost welled up with tears at the sight of it. For so long I had understood with complete conviction that a counter mounted faucet would function as the most obvious and right way to go...yet it was seriously clogging up the flow (no pun intended) of my whole design. <br />
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I had crazy ideas as to how my sliding bed concept would actually work. Then I began to realize I was kidding myself as to its safety and effectiveness...until I found this faucet.<br />
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It's like saying I have to cut a straight piece of wood with a perfectly square right angle, yet I'm determined to do so using a hand-held jig saw rather than a much more expensive table saw. I have learned through trial and error that buying that expensive table saw is the only option. I would then make that cut and fit that square piece of wood perfectly into the spot it needs to go. After which I would wake up every morning to a job well done, rather than my regret of a job poorly done.<br />
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<div align="center">Once again...</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAZlfpmeitI/AAAAAAAAAcY/pR5r0Ei_Pck/s1600/3d+Model+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_z0q9VNfQQeQ/TAZlfpmeitI/AAAAAAAAAcY/pR5r0Ei_Pck/s320/3d+Model+4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That wall mounted faucet will swing to its left and rest against the wall, freeing up room for the slatted bed frame to expand open and slide over the counter top. The sink basin will be mounted under the counter with a nice finished edge, and the stove will be mounted flush with the counter top. Butcher block covers will rest over the openings thereby creating a solid counter top, suitable for my nighttime transformation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Any comments on the color scheme? I'm thinking a dark brown stain on the cabinetry found in the original Airstream. I'm leaning toward a light color or even just a clear sealer/urethane for the counter top. Maybe I'll match that on the kitchen table. The knobs are the flush-mounted push/pull variety with a chrome finish. And, the wall over the bed and the dinette will have a textile of some sort that I think will be a light sand/blonde color. All of this is subject to change, of course. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As of now, all sights are pointing toward the horizon in search of the ultimate van in which I will build The Ultimate Roving Home. </div> -- Robhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13898574914325917114noreply@blogger.com13