# \#lex-tutorial **URL:** https://diyrvforum.com/tag/lex-tutorial/2.md [Latest](https://diyrvforum.com/latest.md) · [Categories](https://diyrvforum.com/categories.md) · [Tags](https://diyrvforum.com/tags.md) --- ## [Meet Lex and the Lex Van Build Tutorial](https://diyrvforum.com/t/meet-lex-and-the-lex-van-build-tutorial/90)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [June 6, 2023, 9:42am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/meet-lex-and-the-lex-van-build-tutorial/90 "2023-06-06T09:42:28Z")
Meet Lex Lex lives in Southern California and has been building his own vans and helping others for years. His series on building out a Ram Promaster was instrumental in my build of a Ford Transit and Nate’s build of a N… --- ## [3. Layout and C-channel](https://diyrvforum.com/t/3-layout-and-c-channel/50)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 21, 2023, 11:26pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/3-layout-and-c-channel/50 "2023-05-21T23:26:03Z")
The Layout This is not about the design of your van, your cabinet size, or where to place the bed. It’s about the construction process that will help you make your vision a reality in the easiest way possible. Let’s fac… --- ## [2. Before You Start The Layout](https://diyrvforum.com/t/2-before-you-start-the-layout/49)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 21, 2023, 10:48pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/2-before-you-start-the-layout/49 "2023-05-21T22:48:27Z")
Before You Start The Layout One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is what type of floor covering you want to use. You can use sheet goods like vinyl or linoleum, interlocking flooring, or tiles. If you choose s… --- ## [Making Drawers, Several Systems](https://diyrvforum.com/t/making-drawers-several-systems/69)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2023, 9:09pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/making-drawers-several-systems/69 "2023-05-28T21:09:41Z")
I’ve had a lot of questions lately on making drawers. I’ve used several systems in the past including dovetails, miter locks, dados, Kreg Jig, and Drawer Lock router bits. Let’s face it. We’re not making heirloom furni… --- ## [Urban Stealth Camping](https://diyrvforum.com/t/urban-stealth-camping/76)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 29, 2023, 11:36am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/urban-stealth-camping/76 "2023-05-29T11:36:13Z")
Our favorite place to sleep when on the road is in the best hotel parking lots. These usually have conference or business centers that are abandoned after 10pm. This gives unfettered access to spotlessly clean restroom… --- ## [Solar Install & Roof Fan](https://diyrvforum.com/t/solar-install-roof-fan/75)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 29, 2023, 11:33am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/solar-install-roof-fan/75 "2023-05-29T11:33:52Z")
Got a message from @Matt saying that I needed a photo of the entire install. Because I have the 136 promaster and wanted a roof fan, I didn’t have room for 3 full 300 watt panels but wanted as much solar as possible. To… --- ## [Rivet Nuts, Size & Supplier](https://diyrvforum.com/t/rivet-nuts-size-supplier/74)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 29, 2023, 11:29am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/rivet-nuts-size-supplier/74 "2023-05-29T11:29:02Z")
Folks, I use 1/4-20 rivet nuts to attach the wall panels, cabinets, and shelves to the vehicle’s framework. Like cross dowels, this allows me to take things apart and put them back together again if needed. The proble… --- ## [Wall Panel Details](https://diyrvforum.com/t/wall-panel-details/73)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 29, 2023, 11:19am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/wall-panel-details/73 "2023-05-29T11:19:21Z")
My wall panels are 1/4 inch plywood painted with a sponge roller with 4 different shades of green paint, (dark, medium, light, and cream). The sponge pattern keeps them from showing scuff marks and dirt. The panels are… --- ## [Promaster Solar Panel Installation](https://diyrvforum.com/t/promaster-solar-panel-installation/72)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2023, 10:27pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/promaster-solar-panel-installation/72 "2023-05-28T22:27:41Z")
This is how I install 60 cell (nominal 300 watt) solar panels to a Promaster. The 60 cell panels are roughly 65 – 66 inches long by 39 – 40 inches wide. This will easily fit 2 panels to a 136 Promaster plus a roof fan,… --- ## [Plywood Edges & Cabinet Door Hinges](https://diyrvforum.com/t/plywood-edges-cabinet-door-hinges/71)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2023, 10:12pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/plywood-edges-cabinet-door-hinges/71 "2023-05-28T22:12:17Z")
Nate contacted me and asked me to suggest ways to finish exposed plywood edges. He also wanted to know how to attach cabinet doors since there is no face frame in cross dowel construction. Here’s my response. I made m… --- ## [Painting Wood Surfaces](https://diyrvforum.com/t/painting-wood-surfaces/70)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2023, 9:28pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/painting-wood-surfaces/70 "2023-05-28T21:28:13Z")
How did Lex get the multi-color paint effect? Credit: Element Life I used a 1-part pre-catalized water based epoxy paint from Home Depot along with their premium primer. Makes a tough finish. BEHR PRO 1 gal. White … --- ## [Inverters, High & Low Frequency](https://diyrvforum.com/t/inverters-high-low-frequency/68)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2023, 9:00pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/inverters-high-low-frequency/68 "2023-05-28T21:00:55Z")
Inverters are a deep subject and things can get really complicated really fast. Let me see if I can break it down into basic bite sized chunks. (this is where I tell you how to build an inverter :wink:) There are two … --- ## [Espar-Webasto Furnace Install](https://diyrvforum.com/t/espar-webasto-furnace-install/67)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2023, 8:54pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/espar-webasto-furnace-install/67 "2023-05-28T20:54:11Z")
My Espar D2 furnace is installed directly behind the driver’s seat. I created a foot rest and put the furnace inside. The space is fairly large but the only thing in there is the furnace and any excess cable. These fur… --- ## [Lex's Electrical System](https://diyrvforum.com/t/lexs-electrical-system/66)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 28, 2023, 7:42pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/lexs-electrical-system/66 "2023-05-28T19:42:00Z")
There is so much confusion on how to wire the electrical system. Many have never seen a schematic and don’t know how to read one. I created this drawing of how my electrical system is wired. I’ve substituted Renogy charg… --- ## [Crimping Wire Lugs](https://diyrvforum.com/t/crimping-wire-lugs/65)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 26, 2023, 10:24am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/crimping-wire-lugs/65 "2023-05-26T10:24:08Z")
Making a proper crimp when putting lugs on the ends of wires requires that 3 things all work in concert. The wire should be of the correct type (though there’s some leeway) The lug must match the wire type and size as … --- ## [DC to DC Charger](https://diyrvforum.com/t/dc-to-dc-charger/64)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 26, 2023, 10:05am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/dc-to-dc-charger/64 "2023-05-26T10:05:07Z")
The 60 amp DC to DC charger is fine and will not stress your new alternator. The only difference between a 20 amp, 30, amp, 40 amp and 60 amp DC to DC charger is how much power it pulls from the vehicle’s alternator an… --- ## [Batteries, lithium is the way to go](https://diyrvforum.com/t/batteries-lithium-is-the-way-to-go/63)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 26, 2023, 10:00am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/batteries-lithium-is-the-way-to-go/63 "2023-05-26T10:00:41Z")
As far as I’m concerned, lithium is the way to go. However, they have their strong and weak points and like everything else in life it’s a trade off. Lithium batteries don’t like being charged like lead acid batteries… --- ## [1. Van Build with Cross Dowel Construction, The Floor](https://diyrvforum.com/t/1-van-build-with-cross-dowel-construction-the-floor/48)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 21, 2023, 10:20pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/1-van-build-with-cross-dowel-construction-the-floor/48 "2023-05-21T22:20:27Z")
Van Build with Cross Dowel Construction Note from @Matt: This build series @dodge-promaster is by my friend @Lex. I used this series to build my Ford Transit. After having built out three vehicles of my own and helped o… --- ## [4. The Basic Cross Dowel Joint](https://diyrvforum.com/t/4-the-basic-cross-dowel-joint/51)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 22, 2023, 2:18pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/4-the-basic-cross-dowel-joint/51 "2023-05-22T14:18:32Z")
Let’s start with the tools you’ll need. You’ll need a cross dowel jig. Some clamps. These are Bessey clamps but there are similar clamps at the big box hardware stores. I don’t like the “trigger” clamps. I prefer a … --- ## [5. Anchoring cabinet divider panels with cross dowels](https://diyrvforum.com/t/5-anchoring-cabinet-divider-panels-with-cross-dowels/53)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 22, 2023, 2:50pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/5-anchoring-cabinet-divider-panels-with-cross-dowels/53 "2023-05-22T14:50:02Z")
A few words before we start. The model we’ve been working with is a close representation of the lower bunk in my personal 136 Promaster. It has a head board, foot board, and I chose drawers instead of cabinets or bins … --- ## [6. Bed Construction, Head and Foot panels](https://diyrvforum.com/t/6-bed-construction-head-and-foot-panels/54)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 22, 2023, 4:10pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/6-bed-construction-head-and-foot-panels/54 "2023-05-22T16:10:20Z")
The head and foot boards present very similar problems as the cabinet dividing panels. The only real difference is that they are taller, at about 36 inches and now the rear cabinet panel, which acted as the “outside” a… --- ## [7. The Bed Platform](https://diyrvforum.com/t/7-the-bed-platform/55)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 22, 2023, 6:36pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/7-the-bed-platform/55 "2023-05-22T18:36:58Z")
Bed Platform: Introduction The bed platform serves as the top of the lower cabinet section. In securing the bed platform to the rear panel and middle divider panels we’ll use the extended layout lines we drew on the fl… --- ## [8. Locating Points](https://diyrvforum.com/t/8-locating-points/56)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 22, 2023, 6:53pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/8-locating-points/56 "2023-05-22T18:53:49Z")
I’m going to interrupt the sequential flow of the van build and cover a subject that many people struggle with. How do you accurately locate where to drill a hole in a panel or cabinet so that it lines up with an exist… --- ## [9. Adding a Face Frame to the Bed Platform](https://diyrvforum.com/t/9-adding-a-face-frame-to-the-bed-platform/57)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 23, 2023, 12:32am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/9-adding-a-face-frame-to-the-bed-platform/57 "2023-05-23T00:32:23Z")
After driving around in my van for several months, I was constantly annoyed by the mattress slowly slipping off the bed platform and landing in the isle way as I bobbed and weaved around corners and did my best to dest… --- ## [10. Extending the Cabinet & Anchoring Cabinets to the C-Channel](https://diyrvforum.com/t/10-extending-the-cabinet-anchoring-cabinets-to-the-c-channel/58)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 23, 2023, 1:44am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/10-extending-the-cabinet-anchoring-cabinets-to-the-c-channel/58 "2023-05-23T01:44:05Z")
First lets look at what’s involved in adding to our existing cabinet assembly. Most other construction methods would require building a completely separate cabinet and setting it beside the existing cabinets. With cros… --- ## [11. Dividing Cabinet Space](https://diyrvforum.com/t/11-dividing-cabinet-space/59)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 23, 2023, 8:45am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/11-dividing-cabinet-space/59 "2023-05-23T08:45:29Z")
Let’s get back to our new cabinet addition. This is a tall cabinet at around 35 inches. The question is how do we want to divide up the vertical space, and how do we keep our measurements consistent when we have to dup… --- ## [12. Installing Fixed Countertops Using C-channel](https://diyrvforum.com/t/12-installing-fixed-countertops-using-c-channel/61)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 25, 2023, 12:13pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/12-installing-fixed-countertops-using-c-channel/61 "2023-05-25T12:13:17Z")
A countertop is just an upside-down floor. We used C-channel to hold our cabinets to the floor. We can just as easily use C-channel to attach countertops to our cabinets. The process is straight forward, but slightly d… --- ## [13. Ceiling and Wall/Ceiling Transition](https://diyrvforum.com/t/13-ceiling-and-wall-ceiling-transition/62)
**Author:** [@RV-Builder](https://diyrvforum.com/u/RV-Builder)\ **Replies:** 0\ **Last updated:** [May 25, 2023, 9:10pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/13-ceiling-and-wall-ceiling-transition/62 "2023-05-25T21:10:14Z")
The ceiling is a modified T-Bar installation. You’re probably familiar with T-Bar ceilings in office buildings where there is a thin metal frame with 2’x4’ tiles that drop into the frame. The tiles are usually white wi…