Horsebox builders/ gurus. van built changed to coach built

china

china

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I have a Renault master van conversion 3.5t, that I have had for quite a few years now. I love it to bits! however, I am now trying to make some improvements to make life easier for me when staying away, and it's like trying to build into loft eves due to the shape!
How easy/ complicated would it be to have this box changed into a coach build? (By a professional!) there are a lot of things I would like to keep, such as the interior of the horse area, the partition and ramp etc! Hence why I don't want to buy a new box, but in an ideal world, I would like it converted into a coach build to give me the space I need, and a small Luton!

I'm not a horsebox builder so I really have no idea if this is a completely far fetched, or overly complicated idea, and wether it would just be easier to buy a new box in a couple of years!! I just like my own box to much to part with :-D
 
The Master is built on a chassis - so it is do-able - but there would be a serious amount of work to be done, highly unlikely to be at all cost-effective.

You could try looking at caravans and yachts for ideas on how to squeeze things into a tiny space.

A clever alternative - tho it might look a bit odd- would be to fit out a lightweight box trailer for living and storage. You'd need to look at towing capacity and power and licence requirements - first.

Or even stick a caravan behind it, Just brace yourself for the looks you get.
 
Ive got a renault master van and much prefer the shape of the coach built ones, however, I dont think there is much more room inside them actually. My hubby has changed the back of ours so we have a small day living area, sink with running water, cupboards, nice comfy bench seat and a camping loo for emergencies!. There is a nice work top over the cupboard and we use a camping hob with the tiny gas cannister as this keeps the weight down. I often meet up with a friend who has a beautiful looking coach built 3.5 and actually the grooms area at the back is smaller than in mine, so although I think it looks much more like a horse box than my little van, it doesnt offer more room.
 
That is what I'm thinking of having done in mine, having a small unit built in with a small gas cooker in the top and possibly a small fridge in the bottom, it's just hard to invisage how it will all fit in.
Perhaps I need to get my measuring tape out.
My friend has a coach built but most of her stuff is on the floor in her grooms bit as she doesn't have much storage. I do have a lot of cubby holes!
 
We used Ikea units. took out the existing bits that were over the wheel arches and built up and over them. On the left is a row of 3 cupboards with worktop over, the sink is nearest the back doors and the camping hob sits on top of the worktop. On the right is a small cupboard with 2 drawers above it and the bench seat which has room for 2 bums. Seat has storage underneath it. We have 2 hooks on each back door for coats, hay bag and bridle bag. The portaloo is just popped in if we are going anywhere with dubious toilet facilities, the windows have roller blinds for privacy. It has a Luton big enough for storing spare riding boots, all my hi viz, spare bandages, boots, rugs and grooming kit, the cupboards have room for all the bits I need day to day including first aid stuff. It is snug but theres usually only me and 1 horse, occasionally OH and the dog. You do need to be very mindful of weight when adding bits but it is doable. If I was young and agile and wanted to stay away, I would pitch a tent or get an awning attached to the side and customize it to work.
 
I must admit, I do love it. I was very sceptical when OH suggested doing it cos I really craved a nice coach built job, or even a 7.5 one. Now though, Im glad we stuck with it cos its just so easy for me on my own. Dont have a single picture Im afraid but Im out in it tomorrow so if you really would like to see it Ill try and take a couple.
 
I would love to see if you do get a chance to take pictures.
I'm getting more and more ideas in my head. I'm going to get some funny looks when I take it to the horsebox people and try to explain 😂😂
 
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