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