(Work In Progress)
All data, software and tools contained are open source licensed under GNU GPL V3.0, however all of the written content and photos are unlicensed and I retain full copyrights. I would appreciate any feedback, my email is [email protected]. The repository for this project containing the LICENSE file, among other things, is located here: https://github.com/dragosrotaru/skoolie
I am not a licensed engineer, or an expert in anything. My academic background is an uncompleted bachelors in Mathematics and Computer Science. I assume no liability and provide no warranties, as permitted by the law. if you choose to replicate or apply anything from this document, you should consult certified professionals, get appropriate training and follow the laws specific to your jurisdiction.
Welcome to my school bus camper project. I like to call him Claude Debussy (after the composer), or Claude for short. Claude is my full time project and shelter, he is a 2007.5 GMC Savana 3500 Girardin/Microbird G5 6.6L Duramax LMM with a 4L80e Transmission.
In writing this, my intention is to rigorously consider and document every aspect of designing, building, living in and maintaining Claude. I try to make it useful for other people working on a van, cube truck, ambulance, pickup truck (or anything else in between).
<aside> đź’ˇ This doubles as an owners manual for the next person that owns Claude! There is lots of data and documentation - maintenance logs, costs, schematics, environmental impact, fuel consumption, step by step manuals for every maintenance task, sources to buy a bus and so much more.
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I am a 26 year old, my most recent job title being Software Engineer, and I reside in Montreal. I have dreamed of converting a van for almost a decade, and I quit my job August 1 2021 to begin work on Claude. I finally decided to do this because I could see myself inching towards burn out and needed a break. I wanted to work on my feet and with my hands, have the space to think deeply about design, and to spend the winter skiing across North America.
There are many viable ways to do a conversion. I just want to acknowledge that my way is NOT the only “right” way to build a bus.