Converting a heavy-duty bus/coach/truck into a motorhome
by Patrick26
Translated into English.
Bonjour l'ami suisse!!
Moi si j'étais toi (mais je ne le suis pas😉), je ne rajouterais pas mes 4 160Ah aux 2 180Ah
Déjà, tu va partir dès le départ avec un parc batteries pas tres homogène ni au niveau capacité ni au niveau durée de vie, mais bon sur ce plan là ce n'est pas super embettant.
Comme je l'ai déjà évoqué dans un de mes posts précedent, si on peut biensûr, il vaud mieux mettre 2 "grosses" batteries en // que 4 "petites".
Je vois bien que là j'y coupe pas, je vais devoir expliquer pourquoi.
Bon tout d'abord, chaque batt est constituée d'éléments indépendants de 2 V chacun, et tous mis en serie, eh bé non la batt de 6, 12 ou 24 V n'éxiste pas, techniquement et chimiquement, on ne sait faire que du 2V x X éléments en fonction de la tension souhaitée.
Chaque élément de 2V se comporte et est en fait une mini batterie avec sa propre tension et résistance interne intrisèque. ces éléments sont tous fabriqués pareil et avec les même matériaux mais, et oui ya un mais, il y a des éléments qui vont "donner" 2.1 V par exemple et d'autres seulement 1.9 V, je sais c'est chiant.
Il ont un rendement différent, on leur donne à tous la même énergie pour se charger puisque ils sont tous en série et que c'est le même courant qui les traverse tous, pourtant à l'arrivées les tensions individuelles ne sont pas les mêmes.
Mais où est le Pb me direz vous alors, j'y viens, du calme.😎, c'est pas toujours facile d'expliquer par écrit ce qu'on sait ou qu'on pratique!!!
On va dire parce qu'on est des gentils qu'il n'y a qu'un élément qui a un rendement plus faible que les autres. Au cours des charges et décharges successives la différence va augmenter entre les bons et le "moins bon". Cela a plusieur éffets néffastes: La tension de la batterie va diminuer jour après jour, cycle après cycle, car comme tous les éléments sont en série, si on exgère et que l'élément arrive à 1.5 V(c'est un exemple pour la démo, en fait ce n'est pas possible OK ??), on aura une batterie qui donnera 11.5 V au lieu de 12 V. Comme donc on le vois, chaque batterie est légèrement différente, en mettant des batt en //, celle qui ont un meilleur rendement que les autres vont toujours vouloir "compenser" les déficiences de leurs voisinnes, plus on en met en // plus on amplifie potentiellement ce phénomène. Au fair et à mesure des cycles de charge et décharge, le "maillon faible" creuse l'écart avec ses "bons" voisins, donc si après une utilisation prolongée, pour les bons éléments on est pret de la décharge profonde, pour le "mailon faible" on est en plein dedant et pour un élément qui est foutu, toute la batterie est a changer puisqu'ils sont tous reliés ensemble.
Donc plus on met des grosses batteries en // mais en nombre réduit, plus on diminue ce problème car on diminue le nombre d'éléments de 2V en circulation.
Biensur il y a une parade: LA FAMEUSE CHARGE D'EGALISATION !!!
Bon la il faut déjà un chargeur couteux comme a commencé d'en parler GX47, un chargeur sur lequel on peut controler l'intensité de charge et la tension. Bien équipé comme ça, on éléve UN PEU la tension nominale de charge tout en maintenant inchangée l'intensitée de charge. Les bons éléments ne vont pas aimer et donc vont un peu buller (bouillir comme on dit aussi), par contre on va forcer le maillon faible qui avait besoin de plus de tension que les autres (du fait de sont plus mauvais rendement) a revenir quasiment au niveau des autres "bons". Par ce procédé, on gomme un peu les différences, on égalise, d'où le nom.
Procédé a utiliser avec parcimonie et façon bien maitrisée car les éléments n'aiment pas trop ça.🏴☠️
Cordialement.
Déjà, tu va partir dès le départ avec un parc batteries pas tres homogène ni au niveau capacité ni au niveau durée de vie, mais bon sur ce plan là ce n'est pas super embettant.
Comme je l'ai déjà évoqué dans un de mes posts précedent, si on peut biensûr, il vaud mieux mettre 2 "grosses" batteries en // que 4 "petites".
Je vois bien que là j'y coupe pas, je vais devoir expliquer pourquoi.
Bon tout d'abord, chaque batt est constituée d'éléments indépendants de 2 V chacun, et tous mis en serie, eh bé non la batt de 6, 12 ou 24 V n'éxiste pas, techniquement et chimiquement, on ne sait faire que du 2V x X éléments en fonction de la tension souhaitée.
Chaque élément de 2V se comporte et est en fait une mini batterie avec sa propre tension et résistance interne intrisèque. ces éléments sont tous fabriqués pareil et avec les même matériaux mais, et oui ya un mais, il y a des éléments qui vont "donner" 2.1 V par exemple et d'autres seulement 1.9 V, je sais c'est chiant.
Il ont un rendement différent, on leur donne à tous la même énergie pour se charger puisque ils sont tous en série et que c'est le même courant qui les traverse tous, pourtant à l'arrivées les tensions individuelles ne sont pas les mêmes.
Mais où est le Pb me direz vous alors, j'y viens, du calme.😎, c'est pas toujours facile d'expliquer par écrit ce qu'on sait ou qu'on pratique!!!
On va dire parce qu'on est des gentils qu'il n'y a qu'un élément qui a un rendement plus faible que les autres. Au cours des charges et décharges successives la différence va augmenter entre les bons et le "moins bon". Cela a plusieur éffets néffastes: La tension de la batterie va diminuer jour après jour, cycle après cycle, car comme tous les éléments sont en série, si on exgère et que l'élément arrive à 1.5 V(c'est un exemple pour la démo, en fait ce n'est pas possible OK ??), on aura une batterie qui donnera 11.5 V au lieu de 12 V. Comme donc on le vois, chaque batterie est légèrement différente, en mettant des batt en //, celle qui ont un meilleur rendement que les autres vont toujours vouloir "compenser" les déficiences de leurs voisinnes, plus on en met en // plus on amplifie potentiellement ce phénomène. Au fair et à mesure des cycles de charge et décharge, le "maillon faible" creuse l'écart avec ses "bons" voisins, donc si après une utilisation prolongée, pour les bons éléments on est pret de la décharge profonde, pour le "mailon faible" on est en plein dedant et pour un élément qui est foutu, toute la batterie est a changer puisqu'ils sont tous reliés ensemble.
Donc plus on met des grosses batteries en // mais en nombre réduit, plus on diminue ce problème car on diminue le nombre d'éléments de 2V en circulation.
Biensur il y a une parade: LA FAMEUSE CHARGE D'EGALISATION !!!
Bon la il faut déjà un chargeur couteux comme a commencé d'en parler GX47, un chargeur sur lequel on peut controler l'intensité de charge et la tension. Bien équipé comme ça, on éléve UN PEU la tension nominale de charge tout en maintenant inchangée l'intensitée de charge. Les bons éléments ne vont pas aimer et donc vont un peu buller (bouillir comme on dit aussi), par contre on va forcer le maillon faible qui avait besoin de plus de tension que les autres (du fait de sont plus mauvais rendement) a revenir quasiment au niveau des autres "bons". Par ce procédé, on gomme un peu les différences, on égalise, d'où le nom.
Procédé a utiliser avec parcimonie et façon bien maitrisée car les éléments n'aiment pas trop ça.🏴☠️
Cordialement.
Eh ben, Ya du boulot!!
http://www.aavl.fr
http://gasmobil.skyrock.fr
M E R C I pour ces infos !
Bon je crois que j'ai compris, je vais aller racheter 2 180Ah neuves et comme ça j'aurais un parc de 4, 2x2 en // complétement neuves qui donneront 24V sur 360AH. Parce que comme tu disais plus haut, "En résumé plus la capacité de vos batteries sera importante, plus la durée de leur vie le sera." Ce qui me solutionnera: la charge en utilisant l'alternateur du car le diamètre des câble "plus petit" et une capacité disponible plus grande qui "usera" moins les batteries sur la longueur. (à consommation égale evidemment)Ben voilà, y a plus qu'à faire.....😏
Bon je crois que vous êtes sur Valence toi et Patrick, avec un peux de chance on se croisera quand je descendrai sur le sud (environ d'Arles), mais je sais pas quand.
Merci encore
Salutations helvétiques Didier
Bon je crois que j'ai compris, je vais aller racheter 2 180Ah neuves et comme ça j'aurais un parc de 4, 2x2 en // complétement neuves qui donneront 24V sur 360AH. Parce que comme tu disais plus haut, "En résumé plus la capacité de vos batteries sera importante, plus la durée de leur vie le sera." Ce qui me solutionnera: la charge en utilisant l'alternateur du car le diamètre des câble "plus petit" et une capacité disponible plus grande qui "usera" moins les batteries sur la longueur. (à consommation égale evidemment)Ben voilà, y a plus qu'à faire.....😏
Bon je crois que vous êtes sur Valence toi et Patrick, avec un peux de chance on se croisera quand je descendrai sur le sud (environ d'Arles), mais je sais pas quand.
Merci encore
Salutations helvétiques Didier
au fait, pour revenir à l'installation de scania suisse si j'ai bien compris il va mettre 2 séries de 2 batteries de 180 en parallèle.
donc ça lui donnera 360x2 A.h (puisque c'est une capacité, en parallèle ou en série ça s'ajoute).
sinon effectivement, il est vraiement impossible de modifier mes batteries? l'électrolyte ne peut pas être recréée? sinon autre question : à l'origine avec mon car, 4 batteries de 3 éléments étaient fournies et installées en série. le car a démaré au car de tour, et une fois arrivé chez moi, la semaine suivante, impossible de le démarrer (certainement vidée par le chronotachygraphe je venais d'avoir le car et sans la notice je pouvais pas deviner qu'il était hors coupe batterie et qu'il suffisait de retirer un fusible).
donc après avoir rechargé, impossible de redémarrer. J'ai donc ouvert tous les bouchons, un des éléments bullait quand j'essayais de démarrer. bon, OK, le vendeur avait une batterie orpheline, il me l'a filé. je remplace celle qui était foireuse (disons défectueuse), et là c'est une autre qui bulle.
on avait testé avec une pipette qui donnait les concentrations d'acide, y a seulement le premier élément qui foirait. l'autre on l'avait pas détecté.
autre question : pourquoi le car a démarré direct quand je l'ai pris la première fois, et pourquoi je n'ai jamais pu recharger les batteries?
sinon puis je espérer obtenir 24 V en mettant 5 batteries de 3 éléments en série?
donc ça lui donnera 360x2 A.h (puisque c'est une capacité, en parallèle ou en série ça s'ajoute).
sinon effectivement, il est vraiement impossible de modifier mes batteries? l'électrolyte ne peut pas être recréée? sinon autre question : à l'origine avec mon car, 4 batteries de 3 éléments étaient fournies et installées en série. le car a démaré au car de tour, et une fois arrivé chez moi, la semaine suivante, impossible de le démarrer (certainement vidée par le chronotachygraphe je venais d'avoir le car et sans la notice je pouvais pas deviner qu'il était hors coupe batterie et qu'il suffisait de retirer un fusible).
donc après avoir rechargé, impossible de redémarrer. J'ai donc ouvert tous les bouchons, un des éléments bullait quand j'essayais de démarrer. bon, OK, le vendeur avait une batterie orpheline, il me l'a filé. je remplace celle qui était foireuse (disons défectueuse), et là c'est une autre qui bulle.
on avait testé avec une pipette qui donnait les concentrations d'acide, y a seulement le premier élément qui foirait. l'autre on l'avait pas détecté.
autre question : pourquoi le car a démarré direct quand je l'ai pris la première fois, et pourquoi je n'ai jamais pu recharger les batteries?
sinon puis je espérer obtenir 24 V en mettant 5 batteries de 3 éléments en série?
Ah non, la capacité s'ajoute en parallèle ca s'ajoute, pas en série.
Mettons un parc de 2 batteries 12V de 100Ah.
Tu peux avoir 200Ah en 12V (//) ou 100Ah en 24V (série)
Ce qui au final représentera la meme quantité d'energie.
Et ce qui pose problème dans les batteries ce n'est pas tant l'electrolyte que les plaques de plomb, car ce sont elle qui s'oxydent.
En cas de décharge profonde, les cristaux peuvent faire des "ponts" entre les plaques de plomb, ce qui court-circuite les éléments. Ceux en court circuit font tomber la capacité de charge et la tension de sortie.
La aussi, pour ceux qui se demandent les différences entre les batteries :Démarrage : besoin de forte intensité sur peu de temps : pleins de plaques de plomb fines (donc qui s'oxydent vite en cas de décharge profonde) pour avoir un max de surface d'échange et donc un pic de puissance.Sémi-Stationnaire (ou marine) : Mix entre démarrage et stationnaires.Stationnaires (ou solaires) : des plaques de plomb épaisses, qui s'oxydent donc bien moins vite et permettent + de cycles de charge/décharge. Comme il y'a moins de plaques, la puissance de crète est assez faible et ne permettra pas un démarrage du moteur.Gel : Une batterie stationnaires, où l'electrolyte est remplacée par du gel. Avantages : on peux les mettre dans tous les sens, pas besoin de refaire les niveaux, meilleur densité de courant.Pourquoi de telles différences de prix ? Le plomb coute cher, et plus y'en a, mieux c'est....
Le poids est un bon indicateur de la capacité de la batterie : le plomb, c'est lourd. Fuyez les batteries de camping-car, certains sont peu scrupuleux et ce ne sont que des batteries de démarrage.... Regardez et comparez les poids avant d'acheter
Et ce qui pose problème dans les batteries ce n'est pas tant l'electrolyte que les plaques de plomb, car ce sont elle qui s'oxydent.
En cas de décharge profonde, les cristaux peuvent faire des "ponts" entre les plaques de plomb, ce qui court-circuite les éléments. Ceux en court circuit font tomber la capacité de charge et la tension de sortie.
La aussi, pour ceux qui se demandent les différences entre les batteries :Démarrage : besoin de forte intensité sur peu de temps : pleins de plaques de plomb fines (donc qui s'oxydent vite en cas de décharge profonde) pour avoir un max de surface d'échange et donc un pic de puissance.Sémi-Stationnaire (ou marine) : Mix entre démarrage et stationnaires.Stationnaires (ou solaires) : des plaques de plomb épaisses, qui s'oxydent donc bien moins vite et permettent + de cycles de charge/décharge. Comme il y'a moins de plaques, la puissance de crète est assez faible et ne permettra pas un démarrage du moteur.Gel : Une batterie stationnaires, où l'electrolyte est remplacée par du gel. Avantages : on peux les mettre dans tous les sens, pas besoin de refaire les niveaux, meilleur densité de courant.Pourquoi de telles différences de prix ? Le plomb coute cher, et plus y'en a, mieux c'est....
Le poids est un bon indicateur de la capacité de la batterie : le plomb, c'est lourd. Fuyez les batteries de camping-car, certains sont peu scrupuleux et ce ne sont que des batteries de démarrage.... Regardez et comparez les poids avant d'acheter
Aménager un Camping-car dans un bus
1 semaine ne suffit pas au chronot. pour vider des bonnes batteries il lui faut bien plusieurs semaines, le mien est déjà rester 1 mois sans bouger chrono toujours branché.
🙁 Malheureusement, çà peu arriver :
soit ton vendeur est honnête et çà peux être la batterie qui a laché de suite
soit c'est un vendeur un petit peu filou ou malin et...
quant un type veut vendre un véhicule, et qu'il sait que c'est batteries sont nazes, ou la compression pas terrible ou le démarreur un peu fatigué, il leur donne un coup avant ou démarre le véhicule en parrallèle, fait un peu chauffer le moteur, et laisse refroidir, au bout 1/2H l'extérieur parrait froid, mais l'interrieur est encore tiède, et il reste du gaz emprisonné dans les chambres de combustion, l'engin démarre au car de tour😄😮. çà ce voit sur les car à suspension pneumatique, ils sont en l'air quant t'arrive, mais pas sur un S53, sauf si le type à oublier d'actionner plusieurs fois la porte pour vider l'air. d'où l'interêt d'arriver 1H avant l'heure prévue, je l'ai souvent fais et là bizar, l'engin qui démarre au quart de tour ne veut pas peter ce matin ???!!!😏
moi quant j'ai vendu le mien, j'avais plein de boulot, çà faisait 3 semaines, qu'il avait pas tourné, p'tet bien plus, je sait pas, en tout cas, il était stationné là depuis plus d'un mois, il à fallu 1 coup de préchauffage, alors que d'habitude il démarrait sans, même l'hivers, il était tout humide à l'interrieur, et même l'échappement c'est mis à fumer blanc au bout de quelques minutes (à chauffer il évaporait l'humidité dedant) il à mis un temps fout à se lever, sur le coup, j'ai un peu regrété de ne pas m'être occupé de le démarrer avant, car les batteries neuves auraient pu êtres vides, mais après coup, vu que tout est rentrer rapidement dans l'ordre, et que l'acheteur si connaissait un max, j'ai pas regrété.
pour tes batteries, si t'as 1 élément de naze, comme l'a expliqué Gazmobil, c'est mort.
si tu veux je te donne un truc de dernier espoir mais sans garantie, tu décharge complèteemnt tes batteries lentement, tu les vides complètement, tu remets de l'eau déminéralisée neuve (1, 5€ les 5l) tu trouve un chargeur pro à forçage, ou tu essais avec une petite merde à pas chère, tu laisses facile 3 jours en charges. tu les remonte et tu veras bien (c'est sans garantie si tu peux pas les choquer ton élément mort comme l'a dis Gazmobil) mais au mieux, çà te coute que 4 bidons de 5l au pire, tu rajoutes 4 batteries neuves au prix des bidons😏 si tes batteries bouilles sur 4 ou 5 élément et que 1 ne prend pas la charge c'est foutu.
il se peut aussi que ton élément défectueux soit en court jus, fréquant avec les nouvelles batteries (du jour au lendemain) et là c'est même pas la pène -> poubelle. les pros ont un testeur pour çà, sinon mesure la tension, si t'as 5V queque chose par batterie, çà roule, si t'as moins de 4V poubelle direct par contre il te faut charger chaque batterie à part en 6V, pas 2 en série en 12V (pour les raisons déjà expliqués par Gazmobil) un jour avec un élément usé, j'ai chargé une batterie à 12V, donc répartie sur 5, 5 élément on va dire🤪, elle c'est vidée instantanément au premier coup de clef sans même enclancher le démarreur. (tous les voyant se sont éteind😕)
la dernière question je pige pas, là 5 x (3x2V) =30V pas 24V, t'as voulus dire 4 batteries de 6V ?
quant un type veut vendre un véhicule, et qu'il sait que c'est batteries sont nazes, ou la compression pas terrible ou le démarreur un peu fatigué, il leur donne un coup avant ou démarre le véhicule en parrallèle, fait un peu chauffer le moteur, et laisse refroidir, au bout 1/2H l'extérieur parrait froid, mais l'interrieur est encore tiède, et il reste du gaz emprisonné dans les chambres de combustion, l'engin démarre au car de tour😄😮. çà ce voit sur les car à suspension pneumatique, ils sont en l'air quant t'arrive, mais pas sur un S53, sauf si le type à oublier d'actionner plusieurs fois la porte pour vider l'air. d'où l'interêt d'arriver 1H avant l'heure prévue, je l'ai souvent fais et là bizar, l'engin qui démarre au quart de tour ne veut pas peter ce matin ???!!!😏
moi quant j'ai vendu le mien, j'avais plein de boulot, çà faisait 3 semaines, qu'il avait pas tourné, p'tet bien plus, je sait pas, en tout cas, il était stationné là depuis plus d'un mois, il à fallu 1 coup de préchauffage, alors que d'habitude il démarrait sans, même l'hivers, il était tout humide à l'interrieur, et même l'échappement c'est mis à fumer blanc au bout de quelques minutes (à chauffer il évaporait l'humidité dedant) il à mis un temps fout à se lever, sur le coup, j'ai un peu regrété de ne pas m'être occupé de le démarrer avant, car les batteries neuves auraient pu êtres vides, mais après coup, vu que tout est rentrer rapidement dans l'ordre, et que l'acheteur si connaissait un max, j'ai pas regrété.
pour tes batteries, si t'as 1 élément de naze, comme l'a expliqué Gazmobil, c'est mort.
si tu veux je te donne un truc de dernier espoir mais sans garantie, tu décharge complèteemnt tes batteries lentement, tu les vides complètement, tu remets de l'eau déminéralisée neuve (1, 5€ les 5l) tu trouve un chargeur pro à forçage, ou tu essais avec une petite merde à pas chère, tu laisses facile 3 jours en charges. tu les remonte et tu veras bien (c'est sans garantie si tu peux pas les choquer ton élément mort comme l'a dis Gazmobil) mais au mieux, çà te coute que 4 bidons de 5l au pire, tu rajoutes 4 batteries neuves au prix des bidons😏 si tes batteries bouilles sur 4 ou 5 élément et que 1 ne prend pas la charge c'est foutu.
il se peut aussi que ton élément défectueux soit en court jus, fréquant avec les nouvelles batteries (du jour au lendemain) et là c'est même pas la pène -> poubelle. les pros ont un testeur pour çà, sinon mesure la tension, si t'as 5V queque chose par batterie, çà roule, si t'as moins de 4V poubelle direct par contre il te faut charger chaque batterie à part en 6V, pas 2 en série en 12V (pour les raisons déjà expliqués par Gazmobil) un jour avec un élément usé, j'ai chargé une batterie à 12V, donc répartie sur 5, 5 élément on va dire🤪, elle c'est vidée instantanément au premier coup de clef sans même enclancher le démarreur. (tous les voyant se sont éteind😕)
la dernière question je pige pas, là 5 x (3x2V) =30V pas 24V, t'as voulus dire 4 batteries de 6V ?
GX47
ex transformation, homologation et utilisation d'un car en CC 9places route en utilisation pro. Plus un CC 6pl VL, plus un fourgon en cabine approfondie 6 pl VL. si je peu aider...
ex transformation, homologation et utilisation d'un car en CC 9places route en utilisation pro. Plus un CC 6pl VL, plus un fourgon en cabine approfondie 6 pl VL. si je peu aider...
on en a déja débattu avec GX 47 il y a quelques dizaines de pages. en effet, l'ampérage s'additionne en parallèle et pas en série.
ne pas confondre Ampère et Ampère.heure ne pas confondre litre/seconde et litre
mais une quantité reste figée (sauf pb de proportionnalité dûs à la chimie comme l'a expliqué Gazmobil), sinon à quoi bon prendre 2 batteries de 180 A.h, puisqu'une suffirait? : tu prend deux seaux d'eau de 10 litre ça te fait 20 litres, et quand tu puises dedans en série tu auras 20 litres. idem si tu puises dedans un par un : tu auras 20 litres. mais après tu peux faire une install en 12V ou en 24V, les puissances sont les mêmes, mais les intensité doublent vu que la tension baisse. une télé bouffera toujours 100W, mais pas avec la même intensité en 12 qu'en 24.
l'ampère est le volume PAR seconde de l'électricité l'amère.heure est donc le VOLUME de l'électricité (chez edf tu paye des watt.heures et non des watts)
mais c'est des cons aussi, ils auraient laissé tout en joule, t aurais une capacité en joule et un débit en joule/seconde
ne pas confondre Ampère et Ampère.heure ne pas confondre litre/seconde et litre
mais une quantité reste figée (sauf pb de proportionnalité dûs à la chimie comme l'a expliqué Gazmobil), sinon à quoi bon prendre 2 batteries de 180 A.h, puisqu'une suffirait? : tu prend deux seaux d'eau de 10 litre ça te fait 20 litres, et quand tu puises dedans en série tu auras 20 litres. idem si tu puises dedans un par un : tu auras 20 litres. mais après tu peux faire une install en 12V ou en 24V, les puissances sont les mêmes, mais les intensité doublent vu que la tension baisse. une télé bouffera toujours 100W, mais pas avec la même intensité en 12 qu'en 24.
l'ampère est le volume PAR seconde de l'électricité l'amère.heure est donc le VOLUME de l'électricité (chez edf tu paye des watt.heures et non des watts)
mais c'est des cons aussi, ils auraient laissé tout en joule, t aurais une capacité en joule et un débit en joule/seconde
No, I meant that by hooking up 5 dodgy batteries instead of 4, I could maybe still get 24 volts (let's say I have 2 or 3 cells with a short circuit or that are faulty).
but does that work or not?
as for my S53, it starts right away, so no problem there. on the other hand, it does smoke a bit, even quite a bit when accelerating, but since it hadn't started for several months, I was told that comes from condensation in the circuit. is that normal?
but does that work or not?
as for my S53, it starts right away, so no problem there. on the other hand, it does smoke a bit, even quite a bit when accelerating, but since it hadn't started for several months, I was told that comes from condensation in the circuit. is that normal?
🙁 No, not the batteries. Bad elements will drain the good ones and you'll have no power—they'll collapse like the one I charged to 12V with a faulty element. You might just have one bad 6V messing up the other 3.
The day you switch to 12V, it's cheaper. 😉
Well, condensation doesn't last forever, but it does exist and sometimes it takes a while. There can also be tiny water leaks that resolve themselves.
You'll only notice it in use, depending on whether it's burning water. That said, with a heavy vehicle, you always have to check the water like the oil, because engines tend to burn a bit of oil depending on age, and the same can happen with water on some engines.
My 797 didn't burn any, while everyone tells me it normally should. 😐 Who knows...
Anyway, in your case, if it's not running, considering the weather, you definitely have a lot of condensation. 😕
Generally, after 1 or 2 minutes it starts producing white smoke, gets worse, then improves and disappears after a few kilometers once the engine warms up (mine took 10 kilometers), but it also depends on the exhaust length. Often engine condensation settles in the exhaust and lasts...
I had a GS (air-cooled, mind you) that dripped water from the exhaust 😮, but it wasn't running on water! 😏
Well, condensation doesn't last forever, but it does exist and sometimes it takes a while. There can also be tiny water leaks that resolve themselves.
You'll only notice it in use, depending on whether it's burning water. That said, with a heavy vehicle, you always have to check the water like the oil, because engines tend to burn a bit of oil depending on age, and the same can happen with water on some engines.
My 797 didn't burn any, while everyone tells me it normally should. 😐 Who knows...
Anyway, in your case, if it's not running, considering the weather, you definitely have a lot of condensation. 😕
Generally, after 1 or 2 minutes it starts producing white smoke, gets worse, then improves and disappears after a few kilometers once the engine warms up (mine took 10 kilometers), but it also depends on the exhaust length. Often engine condensation settles in the exhaust and lasts...
I had a GS (air-cooled, mind you) that dripped water from the exhaust 😮, but it wasn't running on water! 😏
GX47
ex transformation, homologation et utilisation d'un car en CC 9places route en utilisation pro. Plus un CC 6pl VL, plus un fourgon en cabine approfondie 6 pl VL. si je peu aider...
ex transformation, homologation et utilisation d'un car en CC 9places route en utilisation pro. Plus un CC 6pl VL, plus un fourgon en cabine approfondie 6 pl VL. si je peu aider...
Hi everyone
You can also increase the amperages and voltage by connecting them in series/parallel. At that point, you'd need 4 batteries. Image attached.
You can also increase the amperages and voltage by connecting them in series/parallel. At that point, you'd need 4 batteries. Image attached.
Good evening,
I'm not familiar with your tachometers, but in Switzerland on the old models they use much more fuel if you leave it on 'work' with the needle constantly deflecting.
I connected mine after the circuit breaker and I reset it before leaving.
Best regards and good evening
Best regards and good evening
ok, yes so I took the opportunity to completely overhaul the whole setup (fed up with lifting 30kg components to swap them and charging for days on end): 2 new 12V 120A.h batteries + 2m of wiring including terminals (8 euros per meter + 2.50 euros per terminal + 7 euros for the connecting cable between the 2 batteries) + 1 battery disconnect switch to completely cut off the bus circuit (50 euros). all in all about 320 euros. it's unfortunate, because it's an expense I hadn't budgeted for. but anyway, I now have a solid system.
I'm left with 9 6V batteries in my garage (4 of which were given by a VoyageForum member! lol) and the right connectors. if anyone's interested...
thanks, Patrick for the Webasto documentation.
I'm left with 9 6V batteries in my garage (4 of which were given by a VoyageForum member! lol) and the right connectors. if anyone's interested...
thanks, Patrick for the Webasto documentation.
For anyone interested, there's a post on VF by titi77:
http://voyageforum.com/v.f?post=1138223#1138223
http://voyageforum.com/v.f?post=1138223#1138223
CHRISTIAN
"Ne pas rire, ce n'est pas sérieux"
"Ne pas rire, ce n'est pas sérieux"
For those who might be interested, another listing:
http://toulouse.kijiji.fr/...lt-W0QQAdIdZ14438174
http://www.1000-annonces.com/annonce-6318.html
If you've got the cash, a beautiful Iveco: http://cgi.ebay.fr/...545883QQcmdZViewItem
Or if you're on a budget...: http://poitiers.kijiji.fr/c-Voitures-Motos-Bateaux-Caravane-Camping-car-URGENT-VD-bus-S53-declasse-PL-carte-griseVASP-CT-OK-5-places-W0QQAdIdZ12705450
For those unsure about buying or converting a bus into a camper van, you can rent one: http://particulier-locations-camping-cars.cybercampingcar.com/...amping-car_31318.htm
If you've got the cash, a beautiful Iveco: http://cgi.ebay.fr/...545883QQcmdZViewItem
Or if you're on a budget...: http://poitiers.kijiji.fr/c-Voitures-Motos-Bateaux-Caravane-Camping-car-URGENT-VD-bus-S53-declasse-PL-carte-griseVASP-CT-OK-5-places-W0QQAdIdZ12705450
For those unsure about buying or converting a bus into a camper van, you can rent one: http://particulier-locations-camping-cars.cybercampingcar.com/...amping-car_31318.htm
In my last message I forgot to mention 2 things;
I also installed 2 solar panels (12v in series) and the inverter manages the charging.
To couple the batteries when the engine is running, I used a simple industrial three-phase contactor with a 24v control coil, and I wired the 3 contacts together. Plus, if you have trouble starting the engine, you just need to power the coupler and the 'cell' batteries help start the motor (after a prolonged stop or if you forgot to turn off the headlights, for example). This way you can use cheaper or older batteries just for engine starting.
Cheers
To couple the batteries when the engine is running, I used a simple industrial three-phase contactor with a 24v control coil, and I wired the 3 contacts together. Plus, if you have trouble starting the engine, you just need to power the coupler and the 'cell' batteries help start the motor (after a prolonged stop or if you forgot to turn off the headlights, for example). This way you can use cheaper or older batteries just for engine starting.
Cheers
You know, given the number of participants and the fact that the site's not truck-accessible, I think it's off ;)
Aménager un Camping-car dans un bus
I just read your posts and I'm offering to find a nice spot near me...
We've already held a gathering of converted vehicles there😉 and the town hall was super nice...
it depends a bit on how many buses there would be...
it's located in central France so not too far for everyone...
There's a gite but we'd need to hurry since it's probably already booked...
nearby there's a huge lake, with things to do like rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, diving...
it looks roughly like this...

In the photos, you can barely see half of the entire site...
Anyway, there you have it, it's just a proposal from a young member of the forum... I was just saying...

In the photos, you can barely see half of the entire site...
Anyway, there you have it, it's just a proposal from a young member of the forum... I was just saying...
retrouvez All in One sur :
www.myspace.com/kamizone
www.myspace.com/kamizone
Hey, you live in Saviem? That's funny, where is that? 😉
Hey everyone!
It's been a good while since I was last on the forum—about ten pages behind, but it's okay, not too bad—just took me 3 hours..😇 Patrick, what you're going through really isn't cool, but I'm relieved you're not selling Arvik..😉
We've gotten back to work and it's progressing pretty well. I just have a quick question about the furniture angles: what's the standard again? I can't find the AFNOR guide that was lent to me.
Thanks everyone.. see you soon!
Boniz
It's been a good while since I was last on the forum—about ten pages behind, but it's okay, not too bad—just took me 3 hours..😇 Patrick, what you're going through really isn't cool, but I'm relieved you're not selling Arvik..😉
We've gotten back to work and it's progressing pretty well. I just have a quick question about the furniture angles: what's the standard again? I can't find the AFNOR guide that was lent to me.
Thanks everyone.. see you soon!
Boniz
Hello.
It's on page 19, everything is explained about this standard.
Article 3.8.2
The parts located near seats used while the vehicle is moving must not have any dangerous protrusions or sharp edges. The edges of elements surrounding the seating areas, when the vehicle is in motion, must have a radius of curvature of at least 3.2 mm or must be covered with energy-absorbing materials.
Regards.
Regards.
Eh ben, Ya du boulot!!
http://www.aavl.fr
http://gasmobil.skyrock.fr
Hello everyone
Gasmobil meant to write 3.2 cm or 32mm 😉
My bad
!!!
Please give me a break😕.
It's indeed 3.2 cm !!
!!!Please give me a break😕.
It's indeed 3.2 cm !!
Eh ben, Ya du boulot!!
http://www.aavl.fr
http://gasmobil.skyrock.fr
Your proposal is interesting, but you didn't specify the village, TGV access, etc...
Plus, you'd need about ten people—with just 3, it doesn't work as well ;)
Aménager un Camping-car dans un bus
Hello Patrick,
I've read your message carefully.
I'm a journalist for Zone Interdite (M6), and I'm preparing an investigation for a documentary scheduled to air in summer 2008. It's a show about passions and ambitious projects from enthusiasts. In this context, I would like to follow campervan enthusiasts who have a project to undertake this year that we could document. For example, custom fitting out of the vehicle (innovative work, original ideas)—the aim is to follow a human story from its preparation to its completion.
If this project interests you, or if you know anyone who might be interested, please don't hesitate to contact me.
This request is very urgent, and I hope to hear from you as soon as possible.
Best regards,
Mélanie van der Endemelvde@msn.com
I've read your message carefully.
I'm a journalist for Zone Interdite (M6), and I'm preparing an investigation for a documentary scheduled to air in summer 2008. It's a show about passions and ambitious projects from enthusiasts. In this context, I would like to follow campervan enthusiasts who have a project to undertake this year that we could document. For example, custom fitting out of the vehicle (innovative work, original ideas)—the aim is to follow a human story from its preparation to its completion.
If this project interests you, or if you know anyone who might be interested, please don't hesitate to contact me.
This request is very urgent, and I hope to hear from you as soon as possible.
Best regards,
Mélanie van der Endemelvde@msn.com
hello everyone
we're going to become stars!!!😎
more seriously, I'm looking for a 12/24 220V 1500-2500W converter, a switching charger with floating 24V, and 2 deep-cycle batteries of about 130Ah. If anyone knows where we can find this kind of equipment at a reasonable price, thanks to all
cheers jose
we're going to become stars!!!😎
more seriously, I'm looking for a 12/24 220V 1500-2500W converter, a switching charger with floating 24V, and 2 deep-cycle batteries of about 130Ah. If anyone knows where we can find this kind of equipment at a reasonable price, thanks to all
cheers jose
Hi everyone
José, you can find chargers/converters (12v or 24v to 230volt, 2000w or higher) at MASTERVOLT - phone 04 93 902 902 or 06 62 29 648 (technical manager) I've installed a MAS combo 12/2000/100 - 12=voltage 2000=watts at 230volt, supports peak 4000 watts, 100=ah charger. The charger has three stages: bulk, absorption, and float
Do you have a photo of the charger/converter on your blog
José, you can find chargers/converters (12v or 24v to 230volt, 2000w or higher) at MASTERVOLT - phone 04 93 902 902 or 06 62 29 648 (technical manager) I've installed a MAS combo 12/2000/100 - 12=voltage 2000=watts at 230volt, supports peak 4000 watts, 100=ah charger. The charger has three stages: bulk, absorption, and float
Do you have a photo of the charger/converter on your blog
Hi.
So the 32 mm or 3.2 cm is the curve you'd add to a table corner, for example, instead of a right angle. Of course, it's impossible to apply this to all profiles.
Best regards.
So the 32 mm or 3.2 cm is the curve you'd add to a table corner, for example, instead of a right angle. Of course, it's impossible to apply this to all profiles.
Best regards.
Eh ben, Ya du boulot!!
http://www.aavl.fr
http://gasmobil.skyrock.fr
Hello everyone.
Kamizol's site is called "the Pont des Piles site" in the town of Cuizon (36190). There's already been a Mercedes meet-up there. It's near Argenton sur Creuse. It's 116 km from my place (03100 Montluçon).
I'm definitely planning to join in even though I'll be in a caravan.
Patrick26, like many others, I'm with you wholeheartedly through this difficult time. But one more question for you: Where do you stand with the association project?
For the July 14 meet-up, can we get more information? Do we need to sign up or prepare anything (questions, paperwork to prepare...)?
All the best to you all and keep up the good work! Thank you for your commitment.
Kamizol's site is called "the Pont des Piles site" in the town of Cuizon (36190). There's already been a Mercedes meet-up there. It's near Argenton sur Creuse. It's 116 km from my place (03100 Montluçon).
I'm definitely planning to join in even though I'll be in a caravan.
Patrick26, like many others, I'm with you wholeheartedly through this difficult time. But one more question for you: Where do you stand with the association project?
For the July 14 meet-up, can we get more information? Do we need to sign up or prepare anything (questions, paperwork to prepare...)?
All the best to you all and keep up the good work! Thank you for your commitment.
In my case, it goes from 4h30 of driving to 7h30—that's pretty huge as an increase!
I also don't see easy train access either :/
Aménager un Camping-car dans un bus
Honestly I'm not sure, but just go with a bus then 😉, with enough determination you can make it work anywhere
Personally, I hadn't thought about the Saint-Chartier festival which takes place during this period and which I participate in...
Nothing prevents you from meeting up at Pont des Piles of course...
The best thing would be for you to come to this festival, which is the European gathering of luthiers and master bell-ringers...
Otherwise, contact the town hall of Cuzion or the tourist office of Eguzon or else the SIVOM of Eguzon (municipal community)... But in my opinion, the best thing to do is come to Saint-Chartier... It's 60 km from Argenton-sur-Creuse, next to Issoudun more precisely...
Otherwise, contact the town hall of Cuzion or the tourist office of Eguzon or else the SIVOM of Eguzon (municipal community)... But in my opinion, the best thing to do is come to Saint-Chartier... It's 60 km from Argenton-sur-Creuse, next to Issoudun more precisely...
retrouvez All in One sur :
www.myspace.com/kamizone
www.myspace.com/kamizone
Hi everyone,
I have a small concern about the Afnor book. After reading gasmobil's post, I'm wondering if I bought the right book.
Actually, my book doesn't discuss furniture angles on page 19!
It's a white book titled "Motorhome Outfitting / Comfort and Safety of Occupants"
It covers standards S56-111, S56-320, S56-203, and D35-358.
All the best to everyone.
I have a small concern about the Afnor book. After reading gasmobil's post, I'm wondering if I bought the right book.
Actually, my book doesn't discuss furniture angles on page 19!
It's a white book titled "Motorhome Outfitting / Comfort and Safety of Occupants"
It covers standards S56-111, S56-320, S56-203, and D35-358.
All the best to everyone.
zut
Hey B10M.
You can read and reread your damn book, but you won't find that in there.
However, normally it's in black and white in the E27 folder that DRIRE sent you if you requested it. That's what they send us, even though it's meant for light vehicles.
Regards.
Regards.
Eh ben, Ya du boulot!!
http://www.aavl.fr
http://gasmobil.skyrock.fr
hi pandrée
thanks for your reply, but I just got pricing straight from a wholesaler—much cheaper! example: a 50A charger combined with a 2500A converter, 3000W for 30 min, 5000W for 5 sec + solar panel regulator for just over €1000 HT, pure sine wave if anyone's interested?
catch you, jose
thanks for your reply, but I just got pricing straight from a wholesaler—much cheaper! example: a 50A charger combined with a 2500A converter, 3000W for 30 min, 5000W for 5 sec + solar panel regulator for just over €1000 HT, pure sine wave if anyone's interested?
catch you, jose
Hello everyone, I'm new here. I need your advice because I want to convert a Renault 8 bus, 5 meters long, and here are the problems I'm worried about running into. It's an old blood donation bus.
First concern: It was rebuilt by a professional company called "Brevet", but it's always passed inspection since then, even though it's not officially registered as modified because the conversion isn't mentioned on the paperwork.
Second concern: It's from 1999 — will I be forced to meet strict standards to convert it the way I want?
And finally: It hasn't been declassified as VASP yet.
Am I getting in over my head with this, what do you think? Thanks in advance
First concern: It was rebuilt by a professional company called "Brevet", but it's always passed inspection since then, even though it's not officially registered as modified because the conversion isn't mentioned on the paperwork.
Second concern: It's from 1999 — will I be forced to meet strict standards to convert it the way I want?
And finally: It hasn't been declassified as VASP yet.
Am I getting in over my head with this, what do you think? Thanks in advance
ERRATUM!!!
A thousand apologies, I should have verified before putting such an error online.
It was indeed 3.2 mm radius. I finally found my original document again.
For my penance, I'm going to retranscribe the entire relevant paragraph.
Interior fittings: - Interior fittings must comply with the December 19, 1958 regulation concerning the modification of motor vehicles. Parts located near the seats must not have dangerous edges or sharp corners. The edges of elements surrounding the seating areas, during vehicle movement, must have a radius of curvature of at least 3.2 mm or be covered with energy-absorbing materials.
There, the rest we know—it's for 100 L tanks, the fire extinguisher, and NF S 56-200.
Plus I found this in my 1994 "do-it-yourself" special issue about motorhomes already, but not heavy-duty vehicles. It's an idea that's been rattling around in my head for quite a while, just over 13 years.... 🤪
Best regards.
Interior fittings: - Interior fittings must comply with the December 19, 1958 regulation concerning the modification of motor vehicles. Parts located near the seats must not have dangerous edges or sharp corners. The edges of elements surrounding the seating areas, during vehicle movement, must have a radius of curvature of at least 3.2 mm or be covered with energy-absorbing materials.
There, the rest we know—it's for 100 L tanks, the fire extinguisher, and NF S 56-200.
Plus I found this in my 1994 "do-it-yourself" special issue about motorhomes already, but not heavy-duty vehicles. It's an idea that's been rattling around in my head for quite a while, just over 13 years.... 🤪
Best regards.
Eh ben, Ya du boulot!!
http://www.aavl.fr
http://gasmobil.skyrock.fr
Hi everyone,
Man, I really messed up !!!
I was convinced we were talking about the book.
Anyway, no big deal—I've probably made some people laugh.
Catch you later.
Man, I really messed up !!!
I was convinced we were talking about the book.
Anyway, no big deal—I've probably made some people laugh.
Catch you later.
zut
Hello everyone
Don't be as confused as Gasmobil, anyway I'm not and I'm not even ashamed...😏 I was convinced it was a typo, when I think that I had to take it all apart and cut it all again😕 I'm annoyed
But I still have some concerns, as far as I'm concerned I'm incapable of creating a 3.2 mm radius on laminate😏 it will break right away or else you need moldings that are already the right size or you need to know how to work with wood like Pandree and I tip my hat to him here😉 me, I don't know, I have my limits.
3.2 mm doesn't that seem like a strange measurement to you?? it's not 3 or 3.5 but 3.2
are we working to the nearest tenth of a mm??? Now you need calipers or a micrometer?? Well then I really think the one who came up with this has a problem, that's why I won't apologize.
In any case, for an amateur like me, it's much easier to create radii larger than 3.2 mm, of course.
As for the 100-liter tanks, these aren't for heavy trucks (HGVs), otherwise you'd have to change the original fuel tanks.
See you soon
Don't be as confused as Gasmobil, anyway I'm not and I'm not even ashamed...😏 I was convinced it was a typo, when I think that I had to take it all apart and cut it all again😕 I'm annoyed

But I still have some concerns, as far as I'm concerned I'm incapable of creating a 3.2 mm radius on laminate😏 it will break right away or else you need moldings that are already the right size or you need to know how to work with wood like Pandree and I tip my hat to him here😉 me, I don't know, I have my limits.
3.2 mm doesn't that seem like a strange measurement to you?? it's not 3 or 3.5 but 3.2
are we working to the nearest tenth of a mm??? Now you need calipers or a micrometer?? Well then I really think the one who came up with this has a problem, that's why I won't apologize.
In any case, for an amateur like me, it's much easier to create radii larger than 3.2 mm, of course.
As for the 100-liter tanks, these aren't for heavy trucks (HGVs), otherwise you'd have to change the original fuel tanks.See you soon
Yeah, as long as the equipment is near the seating areas—in my case that only affects the 2 corners of the table facing the hallway. A jigsaw cut and you're done. Then you just run some edge banding over it, same as around the table perimeter, and that's all.
For the tanks, wouldn't there be a trick—like, say, some chassis mounting constraint (approved by the manufacturer, of course)? Don't truck fuel tanks already come compartmentalized from the factory (like 100+200+100)?
Catch you later.
Isn't that Volvo actually a B10M? Got any photos?
Later.
For the tanks, wouldn't there be a trick—like, say, some chassis mounting constraint (approved by the manufacturer, of course)? Don't truck fuel tanks already come compartmentalized from the factory (like 100+200+100)?
Catch you later.
Isn't that Volvo actually a B10M? Got any photos?
Later.
Stainless steel chassis? Whoa, that's wild—totally indestructible then? So no need to worry about rust like some lucky Volvo owners! 🤪
They're really lucky... were there a lot of buses with stainless steel chassis?
Log in first, then come back to this page.
You might also like
Storm in the Canary Islands
New adventures from Perpignan to Ranchi (Jharkhand)
Amazing Kyrgyzstan!
Argentine and Chilean Patagonia from El Calafate to Ushuaia
Turkey 2026: Riviera, Antalya, and Cappadocia
Page by Page on the Assisi Way – 1,200 km on Foot
How to nail your trek in wet climates: which pants keep you truly dry?
Densha Otaku - Lesser-Known Regions
More discussions
Hi, I’m planning a trip to Minorca in a camper van. Is it possible to sleep in parking lots near villages?
Or do you absolutely have to go to a campsite?
Hi everyone.
We’re planning a two-month trip to Morocco and Mauritania this fall (2026). We’d like to use this trip to get some bodywork and paint done on our VW T4 camper bus.
Does anyone have recommendations for trustworthy auto body shops (either personally tested or firsthand recommendations)?
Thanks in advance.
Hi,
How do you manage to charge your battery using a solar panel while keeping your vehicle in the shade so it doesn’t turn into an oven?
I have a Renault Trafic, unfortunately black, and my cooler, battery, and BougeRV solar panel.
My battery is mainly used for my electric cooler.
https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0CQ4LFVVR?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_3
Thanks in advance! Nath
How do you manage to charge your battery using a solar panel while keeping your vehicle in the shade so it doesn’t turn into an oven?
I have a Renault Trafic, unfortunately black, and my cooler, battery, and BougeRV solar panel.
My battery is mainly used for my electric cooler.
https://www.amazon.fr/dp/B0CQ4LFVVR?ref_=ppx_hzsearch_conn_dt_b_fed_asin_title_3
Thanks in advance! Nath
Hi everyone, I don’t think there’s already a thread on this topic,
we’re planning—two or three years from now (I know, it’s a ways off...)—a cross-Canada trip from east to west, meaning Montréal ====> Vancouver, and leaving the RV in Vancouver. First, we’ll spend a few days visiting Québec City, then pick up the RV in Montréal. The trip will likely be around 5 weeks, late August to early September. If you’ve got any route ideas, we’d love to hear them! Banff is probably a must-see stop for us. Thanks in advance!
Didier and Nicole
Hello,
Today is January 7th, Orthodox Christmas Day.
It’s the perfect occasion to share on VF a religious site that left a lasting impression on us.
For a long time, we’d admired photos of the Makaryevo Women’s Monastery on Russian websites. They’re always taken from cruise hydrofoils that, in season, depart from Nizhny Novgorod.
This gave us the idea for a crazy challenge: to visit the monastery during a river cruise, with our little plumber’s van that’s become the common thread of our travels!
This challenge seemed impossible to pull off.
The equation was indeed impossible to solve
1. Find a dock 2. Load the van onto a boat 3. Cross the Volga 4. Arrive at sunset 5. Sail past the monastery 6. All with no reliable information. NONE!
Incredibly, every obstacle fell into place one after another! Gifting us unforgettable moments.
The photos follow our exact journey.
1. We arrive on the southern bank of the Volga, searching for a ferry to Makaryevo. First attempt, first failure—we’re way too far east. We find a second ferry, but it serves a different town on the northern bank.

2. We keep going and meet some fishermen. But even they don’t know where to board a vehicle for the monastery.

3. After several fruitless searches, a young man who speaks a few words of English points us to a dock where, in summer, boats *might* serve the monastery. Miraculously, at the end of a rough track, we find an old ferry moored. But no one’s on board, and a chain blocks the entrance.
After an hour of waiting, a worker arrives and tells us they *will* cross the Volga tonight,
but the exit ramp at Makaryevo isn’t accessible for our vehicle.
The captain joins him, and seeing our disappointed faces, they confer, discuss,
and load some planks to raise the ramp!
Another miracle!
4. We board, with just one passenger accompanying us— the Trafic is the only vehicle on board.

5. The crossing was magical. And longer than expected, since the Volga here is several kilometers wide, and we’re navigating between countless islands!

6. Under a sky that gradually clears, we discover there are homes on the river— invisible from the banks—that form small communities where people get around by boat!

7. Then, suddenly, around a bend in the channel, the monastery appears in the distance on the northern bank.

8. At the exact moment our boat rounds the buoy and nears the monastery, the sun breaks through the clouds!

9. A breathtaking sight, with our boat gliding along the monastery walls in absolute silence.

10. The sky, now a deep blue, makes the vibrant colors of the onion domes pop.

11. We sail slowly past the monastery under extraordinary light— something our little compact camera can’t fully capture.

12. As promised, the captain and his crew adjust the exit ramp. You can’t tell from the photo, but even with the planks, it was a close call— the van’s chassis barely cleared the ramp. We thanked them warmly.

13. By the end of the day, the monastery is, of course, closed. But another miracle happens! It turns out the passenger who crossed with us is the mayor’s wife. When Sylvie told her we were from France, she called her husband, who immediately contacted the Mother Superior. Like in a dream, the monastery opens just for us. A nun and a guard come to meet us and take us through the chapels and gardens!

14. A visit all the more intimate since only the silent nuns, deep in prayer, are present in these sacred spaces.

15. After dinner in our little van, we enjoy the exceptional light illuminating the now-closed monastery. We’re the only visitors, and the site feels like a massive ship anchored on the Volga.

16. The setting sun now bathes the monastery walls in gorgeous pink hues!

17. Gradually, the legendary Volga itself takes on magical colors! For the night, I’ll just back the van up to level it. It’ll take us a while to fall asleep after such intense moments.

18. Just as inexplicably, the magic continues the next morning! Seeing I’m struggling with my knee, the guard lets us drive slowly along the monastery’s perimeter path. So there we are at dawn, solitary wanderers between the Volga and the monastery walls.

19. The morning light now illuminates the monastery’s eastern façade, which we hadn’t admired yesterday. An exceptional moment.

20. Even more impressive when we realize we’re on the nuns’ prayer path. We cross paths with them—tall, silent, black-clad figures, fully covered.

We leave Makaryevo with regret, following the Volga toward Kostroma on the Golden Ring. That’s about all there is to add.
We’ve already taken three long trips through Russia in our little van. The travel journals are shared in the link in our signature.
Best regards, Sylvie & Bernard
Today is January 7th, Orthodox Christmas Day.
It’s the perfect occasion to share on VF a religious site that left a lasting impression on us.
For a long time, we’d admired photos of the Makaryevo Women’s Monastery on Russian websites. They’re always taken from cruise hydrofoils that, in season, depart from Nizhny Novgorod.
This gave us the idea for a crazy challenge: to visit the monastery during a river cruise, with our little plumber’s van that’s become the common thread of our travels!
This challenge seemed impossible to pull off.
The equation was indeed impossible to solve
1. Find a dock 2. Load the van onto a boat 3. Cross the Volga 4. Arrive at sunset 5. Sail past the monastery 6. All with no reliable information. NONE!
Incredibly, every obstacle fell into place one after another! Gifting us unforgettable moments.
The photos follow our exact journey.
1. We arrive on the southern bank of the Volga, searching for a ferry to Makaryevo. First attempt, first failure—we’re way too far east. We find a second ferry, but it serves a different town on the northern bank.

2. We keep going and meet some fishermen. But even they don’t know where to board a vehicle for the monastery.

3. After several fruitless searches, a young man who speaks a few words of English points us to a dock where, in summer, boats *might* serve the monastery. Miraculously, at the end of a rough track, we find an old ferry moored. But no one’s on board, and a chain blocks the entrance.
After an hour of waiting, a worker arrives and tells us they *will* cross the Volga tonight,
but the exit ramp at Makaryevo isn’t accessible for our vehicle.
The captain joins him, and seeing our disappointed faces, they confer, discuss,
and load some planks to raise the ramp!Another miracle!
4. We board, with just one passenger accompanying us— the Trafic is the only vehicle on board.

5. The crossing was magical. And longer than expected, since the Volga here is several kilometers wide, and we’re navigating between countless islands!

6. Under a sky that gradually clears, we discover there are homes on the river— invisible from the banks—that form small communities where people get around by boat!

7. Then, suddenly, around a bend in the channel, the monastery appears in the distance on the northern bank.

8. At the exact moment our boat rounds the buoy and nears the monastery, the sun breaks through the clouds!

9. A breathtaking sight, with our boat gliding along the monastery walls in absolute silence.

10. The sky, now a deep blue, makes the vibrant colors of the onion domes pop.

11. We sail slowly past the monastery under extraordinary light— something our little compact camera can’t fully capture.

12. As promised, the captain and his crew adjust the exit ramp. You can’t tell from the photo, but even with the planks, it was a close call— the van’s chassis barely cleared the ramp. We thanked them warmly.

13. By the end of the day, the monastery is, of course, closed. But another miracle happens! It turns out the passenger who crossed with us is the mayor’s wife. When Sylvie told her we were from France, she called her husband, who immediately contacted the Mother Superior. Like in a dream, the monastery opens just for us. A nun and a guard come to meet us and take us through the chapels and gardens!

14. A visit all the more intimate since only the silent nuns, deep in prayer, are present in these sacred spaces.

15. After dinner in our little van, we enjoy the exceptional light illuminating the now-closed monastery. We’re the only visitors, and the site feels like a massive ship anchored on the Volga.

16. The setting sun now bathes the monastery walls in gorgeous pink hues!

17. Gradually, the legendary Volga itself takes on magical colors! For the night, I’ll just back the van up to level it. It’ll take us a while to fall asleep after such intense moments.

18. Just as inexplicably, the magic continues the next morning! Seeing I’m struggling with my knee, the guard lets us drive slowly along the monastery’s perimeter path. So there we are at dawn, solitary wanderers between the Volga and the monastery walls.

19. The morning light now illuminates the monastery’s eastern façade, which we hadn’t admired yesterday. An exceptional moment.

20. Even more impressive when we realize we’re on the nuns’ prayer path. We cross paths with them—tall, silent, black-clad figures, fully covered.

We leave Makaryevo with regret, following the Volga toward Kostroma on the Golden Ring. That’s about all there is to add.
We’ve already taken three long trips through Russia in our little van. The travel journals are shared in the link in our signature.
Best regards, Sylvie & Bernard
"Hey fellow road-trippers! 🚐🔥
After 4 years on the road, I’ve noticed something simple: we’re all looking for the same things. Authentic welcomes, great local eateries, and stops that don’t feel like supermarket parking lots.
But it’s always bugged me to see small producers or local guesthouses getting their margins eaten up by big booking platforms.
That’s why I created TerraNomad.
The concept is straightforward:
The pro (farmer, restaurant, small campsite, guesthouse) pays no commission to be on our map. In return, they offer a special welcome or discount to members.
It’s direct, local, and human. We’re starting in France, then heading together toward Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. Quick question: Does this kind of "no-middleman" network speak to you? I’m opening the first 100 Founding Member spots this Friday night (special launch price at 12 € for the year—just 1 € per month). Can’t wait to read your thoughts and see if you’d be up for this adventure! 🌍✋"
The pro (farmer, restaurant, small campsite, guesthouse) pays no commission to be on our map. In return, they offer a special welcome or discount to members.
It’s direct, local, and human. We’re starting in France, then heading together toward Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. Quick question: Does this kind of "no-middleman" network speak to you? I’m opening the first 100 Founding Member spots this Friday night (special launch price at 12 € for the year—just 1 € per month). Can’t wait to read your thoughts and see if you’d be up for this adventure! 🌍✋"
Is it complicated to rent a car and drive in Morocco? Also, is an international driver’s permit mandatory? Thanks
hi
where can you park a camper van in Trieste to sightsee and sleep?
thanks
Hi there,
Does anyone have a good agency recommendation for renting a camper van in Morocco (Marrakech or Essaouira) for about two weeks in March 2026?
Thanks for your tips!
Hi everyone,
We’re a family of four—two adults with two kids aged 4 and 7—about to embark on a year-long round-the-world trip in a camper van. I’m currently planning the Asia leg, which should last about 6 months. We’ll arrive in Thailand in January, head north, then move on to Laos. Ideally, we’d continue to Vietnam, Cambodia, and then return to Thailand to head south into Malaysia. If the budget allows, we’d love to include China and Japan. The big question after lots of research is: how easy is it to temporarily import a vehicle into these countries? The info I’ve found is outdated (2019–2020), and given how quickly regulations change, I’d love to hear from anyone currently (or recently) traveling in these countries with their vehicle. I’ve read that you need a local guide in Vietnam, local license plates in China, and that importing a vehicle into China is quite complicated—are these rules still in place? More generally, is there a recommended route for this part of the world with a camper van?
Thanks in advance!
We’re a family of four—two adults with two kids aged 4 and 7—about to embark on a year-long round-the-world trip in a camper van. I’m currently planning the Asia leg, which should last about 6 months. We’ll arrive in Thailand in January, head north, then move on to Laos. Ideally, we’d continue to Vietnam, Cambodia, and then return to Thailand to head south into Malaysia. If the budget allows, we’d love to include China and Japan. The big question after lots of research is: how easy is it to temporarily import a vehicle into these countries? The info I’ve found is outdated (2019–2020), and given how quickly regulations change, I’d love to hear from anyone currently (or recently) traveling in these countries with their vehicle. I’ve read that you need a local guide in Vietnam, local license plates in China, and that importing a vehicle into China is quite complicated—are these rules still in place? More generally, is there a recommended route for this part of the world with a camper van?
Thanks in advance!
hello fellow travelers
For my golden years, I'd like to drive to India in my 508. I want to avoid Iran and Pakistan. Instead, I’m thinking of going through Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, then taking the ferry from Baku to Türkmenbaşy in Turkmenistan, followed by the Silk Road through Central Asia—Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.
After that, China? I’ve seen that some travelers manage to drive through China with their own vehicle... Then Tibet, Nepal, and India... But things get tricky with the Himalayan crossing. I’ve checked on Google—it looks tough.
Any tips or info on these routes? Thanks
After that, China? I’ve seen that some travelers manage to drive through China with their own vehicle... Then Tibet, Nepal, and India... But things get tricky with the Himalayan crossing. I’ve checked on Google—it looks tough.
Any tips or info on these routes? Thanks
Hi,
It seems that vans and campervans aren't allowed on Hurtigruten ferries?
We have a California van with a bike rack—length: 5.70 m / height: 2.20 m / width: 1.95 m.
We'd like to take the ferry from Trondheim to the Lofoten Islands this coming September.
Thanks for sharing any info!
regions Brittany, Rhône-Alpes, and Massif Central (Auvergne Limousin)
Hi fellow travelers,
We’re planning our first trip to Iceland.
We’re considering renting a 4x4 where we could sleep from time to time.
My question is: What’s the current regulation in Iceland? Which areas allow sleeping in your vehicle, and where is it prohibited (requiring you to stay in campgrounds)?
In June, is it possible to find spots without having booked in advance?
Sergio
Hi there,
We’re traveling in our camper van from Haute-Savoie.
We’ve got 2 weeks in April and want to explore northern Portugal.
We’re thinking of:
- Peneda-Gerês National Park - the Douro Valley - Porto
We love nature, hiking, and culture (and also good food and wine).😉
Do you have an itinerary to suggest?
Thanks in advance for your replies
We’re traveling in our camper van from Haute-Savoie.
We’ve got 2 weeks in April and want to explore northern Portugal.
We’re thinking of:
- Peneda-Gerês National Park - the Douro Valley - Porto
We love nature, hiking, and culture (and also good food and wine).😉
Do you have an itinerary to suggest?
Thanks in advance for your replies
Hi there,
We're planning a full week in Iceland in April. Given the short timeframe to prepare, I’m asking for some help on the forum.
We’re considering renting a camper van to be more independent with our travel. - Is this really a good idea at this time of year due to weather conditions (cold nights, poor road conditions, etc.)? - Can we just "park" anywhere for the night to sleep, or do we absolutely have to go to a campsite? What are the approximate rates for a van with 2 people? Do we need to book in advance? - If this mode of transport is recommended, do you have any good places to rent one?
Iceland is still a big island with lots of points of interest, so I think it’ll be tough to see everything in 8 days. - Are there parts of the island we should prioritize in April? We like hiking (nothing too long—6 or 7 hours is out of the question) and unique landscapes. - Are some sites inaccessible at this time of year? - Is Reykjavik worth stopping for a day or two?
Thanks in advance for your answers!
Jeff
We're planning a full week in Iceland in April. Given the short timeframe to prepare, I’m asking for some help on the forum.
We’re considering renting a camper van to be more independent with our travel. - Is this really a good idea at this time of year due to weather conditions (cold nights, poor road conditions, etc.)? - Can we just "park" anywhere for the night to sleep, or do we absolutely have to go to a campsite? What are the approximate rates for a van with 2 people? Do we need to book in advance? - If this mode of transport is recommended, do you have any good places to rent one?
Iceland is still a big island with lots of points of interest, so I think it’ll be tough to see everything in 8 days. - Are there parts of the island we should prioritize in April? We like hiking (nothing too long—6 or 7 hours is out of the question) and unique landscapes. - Are some sites inaccessible at this time of year? - Is Reykjavik worth stopping for a day or two?
Thanks in advance for your answers!
Jeff
Hi there,
Most of the time when I travel, I tow a trailer with an ATV for my local trips... I’d love to hear from anyone who’s traveled with a trailer and a second vehicle of any kind—especially the downsides of towing a trailer in Norway, aside from ferry costs.
Thanks!
Most of the time when I travel, I tow a trailer with an ATV for my local trips... I’d love to hear from anyone who’s traveled with a trailer and a second vehicle of any kind—especially the downsides of towing a trailer in Norway, aside from ferry costs.
Thanks!
hi,
I’m planning a trip to Albania in a camper van, most likely between May, June, and early July (2027), for about 60 days. On the way down, I’ll go as far as Bari (or Brindisi) and cross by ferry, and on the way back, I’ll go through the former Yugoslavia (or maybe take the return ferry?).
Has anyone been there recently? What are the roads like, the must-see spots, and any general tips you can share?
There’ll probably be two of us traveling together.
Thanks
Hi there,
During our last trip to Greece in 2021, we used Anek Lines' open deck offer, which allowed us to spend the night in our van on an open deck by the sea with access to the ferry's bars, restaurant, and showers (on the Ancona-Igoumenitsa route).
From my initial research, it seems this service no longer exists—can anyone confirm this?
Any alternatives?
Thanks
Hi everyone,
I’m planning to drive my camper van to southern Spain in autumn 2026. Ideally, I’d like to find a ferry leaving from France (Marseille or Toulon, doesn’t matter) that drops me off as far south in Spain as possible. I’ve done some research but haven’t had any luck.
Thanks for your tips!
Vanouk
We’d like to spend 15 days in August visiting Normandy by camper van, starting from Lyon.
Has anyone got an itinerary to suggest for exploring Normandy?
We’d like to go to Calvados to visit: Flower Coast, Honfleur, Cabourg, Deauville, D-Day landing beaches
Mont Saint-Michel
Alabaster Coast, Étretat cliffs, and maybe Rouen Fabienne
We’d like to go to Calvados to visit: Flower Coast, Honfleur, Cabourg, Deauville, D-Day landing beaches
Mont Saint-Michel
Alabaster Coast, Étretat cliffs, and maybe Rouen Fabienne
Hi there,
I have a bit of a crazy dream... I'd love to drop everything and hit the road with my wife and kids in a camper van.
I want to visit villages to learn, immerse ourselves in other cultures, and see different perspectives on the world. To teach my kids different values.
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a campervan road trip and would love some tips from those who know these countries: Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia again. At the moment, nothing’s set in stone, but for example, is it better to visit Slovenia or Bosnia? My preferences lean toward landscapes (rivers, sea, lakes)—basically anywhere there’s water! :) Wild camping, cheap or even free spots, and a *very* tight budget—it’s the discovery, curiosity, and meeting locals that drive me. I’ll visit cities and sites only if access is easy (by bike, for example, or by train from an affordable campsite) and if visitors aren’t treated like cash cows. Just reasonable stuff, really. So, any advice is welcome—like swimming spots or easy hikes along coasts or rivers. I love caves and offbeat visits (salt mines in Poland, La Roque Saint-Christophe in France, etc.). Castles and old ruins? Not really my thing... Thanks for your help! Sylvia
I’m planning a campervan road trip and would love some tips from those who know these countries: Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia again. At the moment, nothing’s set in stone, but for example, is it better to visit Slovenia or Bosnia? My preferences lean toward landscapes (rivers, sea, lakes)—basically anywhere there’s water! :) Wild camping, cheap or even free spots, and a *very* tight budget—it’s the discovery, curiosity, and meeting locals that drive me. I’ll visit cities and sites only if access is easy (by bike, for example, or by train from an affordable campsite) and if visitors aren’t treated like cash cows. Just reasonable stuff, really. So, any advice is welcome—like swimming spots or easy hikes along coasts or rivers. I love caves and offbeat visits (salt mines in Poland, La Roque Saint-Christophe in France, etc.). Castles and old ruins? Not really my thing... Thanks for your help! Sylvia
Hi, I’m planning to pick up a camper van in Dubai and drive it back to France... is this even possible? What’s the best route? What are the main challenges? Are there secure parking areas along the way? Is diesel fuel available for the whole trip? ... So many questions... Thanks for your help! See you soon!
I'm planning to drive to the UAE by road, going through Iraq. Has anyone done this and can give me some info? Specifically about the border crossings Turkey/Iraq and Iraq/Kuwait.
Hi there,
I’d love to hear your thoughts on a trip to New Zealand in a campervan. Is it a good idea to mix hotels and a car on the North Island and a campervan on the South Island? Or should I do the whole trip in a campervan—though visiting big cities seems trickier that way.
Other questions: which companies do you recommend, and what are the least tiring or most sensible routes? 😄
Thanks for sharing your experiences and ideas!
Hi there,
We’re planning to tour Scandinavia by camper van—Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway (in that order)—for 5 weeks from late May to late June 2026.
I’ve done it before, but that was way back in 1980 😎 and by hitchhiking!
We’d love to hear from anyone who’s done this trip about the best routes, great tips, must-know advice, and what to do or avoid (ferries, campsites, etc.).
Thanks in advance!
hi there,
We’re heading to southern England this summer in our camper van, including a stop in London.
Does anyone have a good experience with a campsite near London that has easy access to public transport to get into the city center? Ideally, we’d like to leave the camper van at the campsite...
Thanks so much in advance for your help!
We’re heading to southern England this summer in our camper van, including a stop in London.
Does anyone have a good experience with a campsite near London that has easy access to public transport to get into the city center? Ideally, we’d like to leave the camper van at the campsite...
Thanks so much in advance for your help!
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a trip with my camper van in autumn 2026 to head to southern Italy from Genoa by ferry.
Ideally, I’d like to leave from Genoa for southern Italy (like Messina) or another city in the boot.
I’ve done some research online but haven’t had any luck.
Can you help or give me some advice?
Thanks in advance!
Vanouk
Hi there, we’ll be in Portugal from March 9 to April 14, 2026. We’ve booked our first five days in Lisbon for sightseeing. After that, we’d like to rent a campervan (RV), but we’re having trouble finding a good site for the rental. The rental would be for about three weeks. Do you have any suggestions for us? We think it’s best to book the campervan before we arrive. And since we’re not mechanics, we need a vehicle in good condition...
Thanks so much for your suggestions. We’re open to everything—even route ideas and places to visit! Pierrette
Thanks so much for your suggestions. We’re open to everything—even route ideas and places to visit! Pierrette

