Fixing the Love Seat Fitment
The love seat was in, but there was a new issue—the fridge was interfering with the right cushion. Since the base of the seat was 2 inches (50 cm) longer than expected, it threw off the alignment with the sink, storage unit, and end piece.
The Right Fix
After thinking it over, I decided the best solution was to rebuild the frame to the correct width and height, rather than forcing it to fit. So, I dismantled the old setup and got to work on a new frame.
🔧 Step 1: Cut new panels to size.
🔧 Step 2: Test fit everything—hallelujah, it fits!
🔧 Step 3: Secure the panels and add extra storage.
One unexpected win? I had an offcut from previous shelving that fit perfectly. I turned it into a door with a shelf inside, creating additional hidden storage.
Finishing Touches
With the new frame in place, I added:
✅ Two cabinet doors—one above the toilet and another beside it.
✅ Shelving—with the option to add an extra level later.
✅ Freshly painted countertop—now secured down to prevent rattling on the road.
Everything looked clean, functional, and solid. Time to test it out!
Shakedown Run: A Scenic River Camp
With the van modifications complete, it was time to take the Wonder Wagon on a shakedown run. We drove through France to the Dordogne, taking a 3 AM ferry and heading straight for a shady riverside campsite.
🏕 Best thing about the camp spot? The shade.
💦 Second best thing? The river—perfect for a swim after a long drive.
And of course, the best way to celebrate a successful build and road trip is to jump into the water and enjoy the moment!
On to the Next Adventure!
The van is shaping up exactly how I envisioned it, and this latest modification has made the space even more efficient. If you enjoyed this update, give it a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel, and stay tuned for the next van build project.
Happy days! 🚐💨
