New Forum Members - Just a couple of Bongo questions!

[RedElectro]

Hello!
Myself and my partner (Vicky, also a member of this forum now) have recently joined the Bongo Gang and purchased a semi-converted, 1996 (i think) 2WD, 2.5TD model. I say semi-converted as it has flooring and cupboard units in the back, but no seating and no leisure electrics (or anything else camper orientated for that matter). Looking around and trying to get a feel of things, we believe that a 3/4 rock and roll bed is going to be needed and some electrical system to allow the use of standard domestic appliances - kettle etc and electric hook up in case we ever venture onto a campsite. In time we would also like to have the sink/hob added and other luxuries - but for now, just the essentials will do.

Can anyone recommend the best way to do this/people to use? Do we need to insulate the vehicle before we can sleep in it? We are going to be using this to stay over at gigs with a band that I am in. Which incidentally played one of the Bongo Bashes a few years back. I don't know if anyone remember us we are called Electro 80's? I never imagined I'd be joining in back then!

[Ian]

Hello, and welcome to Bongo World. I was the one who booked your band for the Bongo Bash, you were fantastic, and possibly the loudest band we have had! There's even a video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbbXmYs5zKg

As for your question about getting the rest of the van sorted, the quickest (but not the cheapest) way of doing it is to take it to one of the specialist converters and tell them exactly what you want. You will find a list on the cunningly entitled "Conversions" page on the main website at http://igmaynard.co.uk/conversions/

But don't rush in to it! Why not come along to one of the forthcoming Bongo meetings and have a look round. We are a friendly bunch!

[Bob]

Welcome aboard.

Goos tips from the Bongomeister, come and take a look at some then you can match your DIY skills against budget against what you fancy.

[RedElectro]

Hey... Thanks for the warm welcome and comments on the band - sorry if we were a bit too loud!

Good suggestions. I'm looking around for a 'Rock and Roll' seat at the minute for my (partly) converted Bongo, but I'm worried that it might not fit with the shape of the pre-existing cupboards. If I can attach a photo I will, but basically where a lot of people seem to install fridges (behind the driver's seat) there's a jutting out cupboard that would seem to make the space for a bed too narrow.

[Jillygumbo]

It depends on whether you want the rock n roll bed to extend further than the edge of the fridge. If you do want a longer bed, then perhaps you should consider the box type seat in front of the fridge and a rock n roll bed that extends to the edge of the fridge.

If you're a short-ass like me, don't bother with the box! Try RustyLee

[Ian]

And remember that if you have a full length rock'n'roll bed, you wouldn't be able to get to the fridge while the bed is made!

[RedElectro]

Thanks. It just seems quite daunting when you're first starting off! I will have to get hold of some specifications. I'll let you know how we get on with it!

[Bongolia]

Why not try using the AFT for a bit first.
Ours has a rock roll bed but we find it better up top. You may want alter the hatch opening but once thats done it more usefull and you can use the downstairs unfettered.

[RedElectro]

Wow... feel a bit stupid now! Never thought about using the AFT - actually thought it might be more of a thing for small children! It's a great idea. I think we will use that for now. Thank you!

[Bob]

Plenty strong enough for 2 adults.

Just be aware and allow enough time if one of you needs to loo during the night.

Or search 'Pee and Tube' for Mike's ingenious solution.

[RedElectro]

Been using the AFT since my last post and it's great - although the mattress that comes with it is a bit uncomfy on it's own, so we've been using an inflatable mattress on top of that and it's been great - but, like you said, a nightmare when you need the loo in the middle of the night!

Anyone know that that little (round) hole with a flap is for in the AFT lid thing?

[Bob]

Its so you can reach up and wake children sleeping up top as they will be on the hatch.

Others have suggested its for passing drinks up but I can't see that's practical.

[mikeonb4c]

Been using the AFT since my last post and it's great - although the mattress that comes with it is a bit uncomfy on it's own, so we've been using an inflatable mattress on top of that and it's been great - but, like you said, a nightmare when you need the loo in the middle of the night!

Anyone know that that little (round) hole with a flap is for in the AFT lid thing?

I use 2" memory foam king size topper cut to shape including hatch section and i made a pee tube (which i feed out through that round hole) and funnel so i don't have to get out just as the glider pilots do

[Bob]

And I thought it was raining.

[mikeonb4c]

And I thought it was raining.

Whereas in fact you were just p*ssed but this time not on scrumpy boom boom

(its ok Bob and me go back a long way )