Hi there. My name is Mark and I'm considering joining the ranks of those who have converted their own vehicles. I'm an RAC patrol by trade so the mechanical/electrical side of things shouldn't be too much of a problem- although my knowledge of commercial vehicles is pretty much zero.

I also like working with wood and have made my own furniture in the past so again, that side of things will be an interesting challenge rather than a nightmare.

If I go ahead with this project (& it's very likely that I will) I will be going for something up to 8m long, as my sister tells me that many sites do not like motorhomes longer than that (she has an 8m Ducato based Euromobil). 

My research so far has pointed me in the direction of an Iveco Daily, with a 65C15 Iris Mellor welfare bus a seemingly perfect choice as it is already winterised (insulated and equipped with a diesel heater), but it's right at the top of the price range I can afford and I'm concerned about potentially low gearing. Would I be better with a LWB 50C? A mobile library is also looking very attractive, as much of the work needed is already done. It would be for four of us plus the dog.

I intend to do the conversion bit by bit and to use used parts where possible to keep costs down (fridge, heater, hob, etc). Is there anything in particular I should avoid or look for? I intend to build all the furnishings and to wire it for every eventuality but to install things first that are essential, such as a (beer/wine) fridge and a hob, but leave things like a shower/toilet until funds permit and use onsite facilities until then.

Any advice/insults/inspiration is very welcome.