Side conversions & engine access??

[nicxf]

Hi, Hoping someone can give me some advice please!
Those of you who have side conversions in your vans, how do you resolve the issue of engine access under the driver's side seat? Will the seat still tip back enough to allow access to the engine compartment beneath?
Any advice would be great - my van is currently in the process of being converted and we're putting a bench seat/bed along that side, with the toilet under it, and it would be helpful to know what other people have found most useful in terms of making sure that the engine can still be got at easily.
Thanks!

[g8dhe]

Yes you can tip back and use a pole to hold it up, but if doing more than filling oil then it might be easier to remove the whole seat and cover its only a few bolts, then lift it out.

[nicxf]

OK thanks - is that with a full side conversion going right up behind the seat?
I use my walking stick to prop the seat up anyway for checking oil - I'm not physically able enough to take the seat out so would need to be able to continue to lift and prop it up.

[g8dhe]

Yes a full side conversion finishes about 3 inches behind the drivers seat.

[mikeWalsall]

My V6 is a side conversion with the sink / cooker / fridge behind the drivers seat ..

It tips back far enough for general maintenance spark plugs / air filter / tranny fluid / oil change / power steering etc: ..

I keep a bit of 1" square wood as a prop .. (Just visible on the bottom left) ..

[nicxf]

That's great, thanks very much guys! I'll pass that on to the converters, I know he was going to do some experiments as well but it's good to hear some opinions about existing conversions. Will post the pics when it's done.

[Titan1995]

I keep a cordless impact gun in my Bongo.

Main use would be for removing wheels however, I have 14mm deep socket that I use for the driver's seat.

I can remove the seat in about 2minutes these days.

Somewhat longer refit.

Works for me.

[BongoBongo123]

Do be careful propping it, 2 props suggested, one could slip and cause an accident on your head or hand.