Aluminum Camper Forum

Livin Lite Forum => Camplite and Bearcat Modifications => Topic started by: GrampaKilt on February 02, 2018, 11:27:18 PM

Title: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: GrampaKilt on February 02, 2018, 11:27:18 PM
Our long awaited sink installation in the 14DB shower is complete. My long-suffering wife (LSW) had a couple of sink install rules: it had to be in a corner, it had to be SS (Wayfair.ca), the drain couldn't run inside the shower and the faucet had to be high enough so it wouldn't obstruct washing a few clothes. The pictures tell the story, but below are a few details of possible interest:

* The sink's location above the single lever shower diverter (Ultra/etrailer.com) was discussed at length with my LSW (I'm a low mount guy). Now that it's in, the shower feels more spacious than with a sink below [img3,4,5].
* I took apart the tub spout (Amazon) and dismantled the shower diverter pull; obviously the shower outlet is now the spout's water inlet [img7].
* How I shortened a hand held shower hose (feeds the tub spout) is worthy of a Rhodes scholarship...I'm definitely open to easier methods [img5]!
* Just had to upgrade to an Oxygenics Body Spa shower head [img7] but its hose is ridiculously stiff. I found the perfect one made by Waterpik (Walmart). The 5 yr warranty is comforting.
* 3-way shutoff and brass nut (Amazon). [img6]
* The aluminum panel exposing all the plumbing was surprisingly easy to remove [img1]. The most difficult part was separating the panel from the double sided tape that secures it to aluminum framing (I used a 1x4 with a shim like end).
* HEPvO was used for the sink's sewer gas trap [img2]. It's a brilliant invention and is also used by LL for shower drains. Many are replacing the kitchen sink P trap with a HEPvO (more room and no RV anti-freeze needed). I found some interesting ways that PVC and ABS can fit together but it's still a PITA. Transition glue used, of course.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on February 03, 2018, 08:28:34 AM
That's awesome!
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: Chappy133 on February 03, 2018, 08:04:57 PM
Nice job. I got the idea on this forum to do the same in our bath. I did not have the requirement to not drain into the shower. I use a jug to save the gray water tank capacity.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: Merlin on February 03, 2018, 08:53:42 PM
Your LSW is very wise and you are very handy.  8)

Nice!
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: craigd on February 07, 2018, 01:49:32 PM
Very cool thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: bcsnave on March 06, 2018, 08:19:38 PM
Very nice job. Do you have part numbers?
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: GrampaKilt on March 08, 2018, 12:15:48 PM
Quote from: bcsnave on March 06, 2018, 08:19:38 PM
Very nice job. Do you have part numbers?
In my original post, I list where I sourced items. I found a very small oval stainless steel sink on Wayfair.ca but it may not be there anymore. I have seen other sources. I think mine is 13" across. Camping World was the best price for the Oxygenics.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on March 20, 2018, 04:20:46 PM
I'm going to tackle this project for my 13QBB as my wife hates brushing her teeth in the kitchen sink.  It's a bit more constrained since it's a wet bath and nothing can stick out from the wall very far.  I'm thinking I'll have to fabricate almost every part to include the sink so my current plan is to create a sink basin out of a 5 1/2 inch mixing bowl and then use a 3D printer to create the framework to hold the bowl as well as hold some sort of faucet.  I'll steal your 3 way valve idea and then use some combination of piping to bring it all together. Thanks for the pictures above, it's helpful.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: Merlin on March 20, 2018, 08:38:49 PM
Quote from: MitchB on March 20, 2018, 04:20:46 PM
I'm going to tackle this project for my 13QBB as my wife hates brushing her teeth in the kitchen sink.  It's a bit more constrained since it's a wet bath and nothing can stick out from the wall very far.  I'm thinking I'll have to fabricate almost every part to include the sink so my current plan is to create a sink basin out of a 5 1/2 inch mixing bowl and then use a 3D printer to create the framework to hold the bowl as well as hold some sort of faucet.  I'll steal your 3 way valve idea and then use some combination of piping to bring it all together. Thanks for the pictures above, it's helpful.

Here's an idea I almost used that might work fine in a 13QBB wet bath. Command makes a Corner Caddy designed for bathrooms. I planned to install it in the corner of my shower and use a small mixing bowl that just fit inside from Bed Bath and Beyond. With a simple plastic tube out the bottom of the mixing bowl for a drain and a second shower head wall mount lower on the wall right over the sink (for use when the sink was needed), I figured I was all set. I actually bought all the stuff and then discovered the Handy Sink (see above in Chappy133's post) that I eventually used for the project instead.

https://www.amazon.com/Command-Corner-Water-Resistant-Strips-BATH12-ES/dp/B00HDFZM8U/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521588623&sr=8-1&keywords=command+corner+caddy+with+water-resistant+strips

Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on March 20, 2018, 10:12:27 PM
Thanks I'll keep that in mind.  I ordered some plumbing parts today so I have a little time to come up with a working model.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: john on March 21, 2018, 08:07:37 PM
so I missed an opportunity to purchace the 21 rbs.chickend out actually.Now a light remodel to my 16.I installed a tub shower faucet with the idea of putting a sink below it and removed the bunk above our queen bed...what a difference that made.I am now removing the kitchen top and replacing it with granite from one of my company projects and upgrading the kitchen sink.
My question is am I adding to much additional weight. I'm guessing it can't be that big of a deal.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: Merlin on March 21, 2018, 10:43:55 PM
Quote from: john on March 21, 2018, 08:07:37 PM
so I missed an opportunity to purchace the 21 rbs.chickend out actually.Now a light remodel to my 16.I installed a tub shower faucet with the idea of putting a sink below it and removed the bunk above our queen bed...what a difference that made.I am now removing the kitchen top and replacing it with granite from one of my company projects and upgrading the kitchen sink.
My question is am I adding to much additional weight. I'm guessing it can't be that big of a deal.

When you add granite to a camper, you should consider several things.

How well is it fastened down to take the rigors of travel and emergency maneuvers?
How does it affect the side to side balance of the trailer?
How does it affect the front to rear balance of the trailer (especially tongue weight)?
Do you have enough load capacity remaining for the things you normally pack along? (Actually weigh your camper at a scale fully loaded; don't go by the LL data)
Will the structure of the cabinets below take the weight as it bounces down the road?
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: john on March 22, 2018, 06:53:08 PM
the counter weighs in at 85 lbs. call me crazy but I can't imagine it making that big of a difference. once in place it won't move.also wirh the new models having quartz I can't be adding that much more
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: GrampaKilt on March 27, 2018, 01:18:19 AM
Great ideas from MitchB, Merlin & John. Given the cost difference between an SS mixing bowl and SS sink, I'd go with the mixing bowl idea if I did it again.

I can fabricate granite and probably will consider a counter upgrade in the future. I'd choose 3/4" marble or quartz. At 1/2" thick, a piece of corian would not weigh much. Any stone should be glued to 3/4" plywood substrate. GK
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on March 30, 2018, 01:04:58 PM
I think I've got my plan finalized and the bulk of the parts purchased.  The time consuming part is printing the 4 pieces that go together to become the sink/bowl countertop. 
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: GrampaKilt on March 31, 2018, 08:22:24 PM
Mitch, the braided stainless steel supply hose is genius as is the miniature faucet with the lever on/off. GK
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on April 01, 2018, 08:10:29 AM
Genius might be a strong word but I appreciate the sentiment. Thanks. I'll post a picture when it's complete.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on April 21, 2018, 03:29:36 PM
Here's where I'm at with this project, if it ever warms up enough to dewinterize the water system I can finish it up.  Overall I think it's going to work out pretty well.

Another sideways image, not sure why

Edit by Paul: Rotated the pictures
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on April 28, 2018, 01:35:21 PM
Here it is, it's held on with 4 wet environment command strips and feels really solid.  We'll see how it holds up going down the road.  Of course the first thing my wife said is can we paint the black pipe white.  :o I guess you know what I've already ordered.

Why do these silly pictures come out sideways?!

Edit by Paul: Rotated pictures
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK, MITCH VERSION
Post by: GrampaKilt on April 28, 2018, 10:45:40 PM
Mitch, excellent look and workmanship. Don't tell my LSW, but I'm thinking of changing my sink 'tub' faucet for the trim looking goose neck faucet you sourced. GK
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: MitchB on May 01, 2018, 05:21:25 PM
Your secret is safe with me! I was surprised at the flow rate from that little spigot, it's pretty high.
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK, MITCH VERSION UPGRADE
Post by: GrampaKilt on June 11, 2018, 02:08:07 PM
I am indebted to Mitch for this upgrade of my original mod. The good news is that my LSW gave the new faucet a big thumbs up!

I felt the outlet spud from the main valve was destined to break, never designed to handle the torque of another valve body screwed to it. A 1" length of 3/4" copper pipe was the perfect diameter to encase the spud (image 2). Note the new soap dispenser mounted up beside the shower head.

Now, what to do about the hole! GK
Title: Re: 2014 14DB FINALLY GETS A BATHROOM SINK
Post by: Retharts on June 12, 2019, 07:02:41 AM
Quote from: john on March 22, 2018, 06:53:08 PM
the counter weighs in at 85 lbs. call me crazy but I can't imagine it making that big of a difference. once in place it won't move.also wirh the new models having quartz I can't be adding that much more
I found an article that says quartzite weighs lesser than quartz. Maybe you can consider that option? Check it out here, it is actually pretty cost effective too.  quartzite countertop cost (https://marble.com/articles/what-to-expect-from-quartzite-countertop-costs).
Title: Re: Weight of Quartz vs Quartzite
Post by: GrampaKilt on June 13, 2019, 01:35:44 PM
I think one of the benefits of a light weight trailer like the CL 2014 14DB (DW 2300 lbs) with a GVWR of 5000 lbs (got to love the tandems) is that it allows one to add items of significant weight without much ado. And now that my TV is a GMC 1500, it makes even less difference. In fact our 14DB is almost too light.

I debated a long time about replacing the uberlight but flimsy laminate countertop with 3 cm solid quartz. The weight, the weight, can I even call my trailer a C 'L' anymore? Then I thought about the wt of an extra battery and propane tank added to the tongue? Then my mind turned to mush. I have no answer save for the 'benefit' comment.

As an aside, our best 14DB towing experience was when we moved. The TT was packed to the roof and not just with light stuff either. We had to be close to the GVWR. It was a very smooth ride. GK