Time to Roam Magazine Issue 12 - December/January 2015 | Page 57

| feature reno rescue What were the biggest challenges in the restoration? I started with the floor and installed a floating timber floor. Vinyl would have been easier as there are so many cabinets to cut and fit around, but the result was worth it. Next I purchased a gas lift double bed to increase storage and a good quality mattress as sleep has to be comfortable. We also attached a couple of LED reading lights to the bedhead. A two speed Camec 12v rangehood with to LEDs was ducted through the roof over the existing four burner gas hob. I have kept the original dome lights but added some led strip lights at various points. A portable reverse cycle air conditioner has been fitted in the front room and ducted outside through the body. It really helps on those hot days. I found a place to fix a 24” LCD TV on an arm. It’s combined with a Blueray/DVD/FM tuner for that cinematic surround sound. A stand alone 240v hot water tap gives up to 50 degrees water, enough to wash the dishes. The door was replaced with a second hand “new” door as the original fell off. The curved corner windows were replaced in clear Lexan that is flexible enough to do the curve and slimline venetians were itted. The biggest challenge was the painting of the exterior. Firstly I cleaned it well, scoured the old paint with Scotchbrite and filled in dents and holes. I painted the roof with three coats of a great product called Thermoshield. This cuts down the heat dramatically through the roof and also seals any leaks and cracks. I have really noticed the difference in the van, great stuff! I applied etch primer to any bare aluminium panels and then sprayed the sides of the van with automotive white enamel. The side strip and wheel spats were done in a metallic green enamel that sets off the van nicely. I learnt to use a spray gun very quickly and found out that it is 80 per cent masking what you don’t want painted and 20 per cent actual painting. After the paint job a Carefree roll out awning went on, just makes life that little bit easier when setting up camp. The next part of the project is installing four 100w thin flexible solar panels, an AGM battery, solar regulator and inverter to be able to enjoy the van away from power. Any tips for others? I have really enjoyed bringing the old Viscount back to life and if you’re thinking about it you should go for it. The more of us doing this and sharing stories and information will keep these classic vans on the road. Read Roam, join forums and go up to people who have renovated vans as they will be pleased to have a yarn about renovation! What are your favourite memories? We use the van for local weekends away near Port Macquarie and annual Christmas holidays at Yamba. We’re joined by cousins who have a Millard from the same era. The best memories are the long dinner table under the stars with family realising you don’t need all the creature comforts of home, just an old Viscount. Family photo with Van. Left to right Luke, Olivia, Sue and Paul Share you renovation rescue: [email protected] Issue 12 Dec/Jan 2015 57