Read this step-by-step guide on installing the Cuddy Composting Toilet or Cuddy Lite in your van!
This guide is taken from Tim and Katie's installation video on their YouTube channel, Tim and Katie. Their innovative design demonstrates how to build a retractable toilet drawer into a wetbath/shower.
Constructing the Wetbath/Shower
First things first, Tim and Katie began their shower build by installing a 24x32 inch shower pan at the front of the van, ensuring it aligned with their layout and was near the fan to help with ventilation. They used sheet vinyl flooring for the shower walls to keep the van's weight low and installed a Nautilus self-cleaning retractable door. For the water supply, they used a 34-gallon freshwater tank, a 4-gallon hot water tank, and a 20-gallon gray water tank with an electronic ball valve. Additional features included a niche with tension rods, a retractable clothesline, and a waterproof toilet paper holder.
Guide to Building the Retractable Toilet Drawer
This guide will take you through the basic steps to construct and install a retractable drawer for the Cuddy Composting Toilet. Watch the video for a more in-depth, visual guide
A quick note: We are not experts. Please if you are unsure, especially with electrics.
Shower Base Installation and Framing
Positioning the Shower Base: Place the 24x32 inch shower pan as far forward in the van as possible while maintaining a comfortable position for the driver's seat. This placement helps with the overall layout and ensures the fan can effectively ventilate steam.
Framing the Shower: Use 2x3s to frame the rear of the shower, taking into account where the ACU door hatch will be positioned. This involves ensuring there is enough space for the door hatch and the pullout drawer mechanism.
Constructing the Drawer
Building the Drawer Base and Sides: Use the Baltic Birch plywood to construct the base and sides of the drawer. Connect the base to the back and sides using pocket holes. A pocket hole is a type of joinery technique where a hole is drilled at an angle, typically 15 degrees, into one workpiece to join it to another with a screw. This method provides a strong joint and is especially useful for creating sturdy frames and structures.
Designing the Drawer: A three-sided drawer allows for easy removal of the toilet and saves space inside the dinette seat.
Installing the Drawer Slides - tricky bit
Aligning and Securing the Slides: Install 500 lb drawer slides inside the framed dinette seat. Proper vertical and width alignment is essential for smooth operation. Secure the slides loosely initially, then fully tighten them outside the van to ensure accurate alignment.
Ensuring Proper Fit: Make sure the drawer slides fit well but aren’t too tight, allowing the drawer to slide in and out with ease.
Attaching the ACU Door Hatch
Cutting the Wall for the Hatch: Mark and cut out the area for the ACU door hatch in the Baltic Birch wall. Apply a generous amount of silicone sealant around the hatch flange to create a waterproof seal.
Securing the Hatch: Attach the hatch to the wall securely, ensuring it is properly aligned and sealed.
Final Adjustments and Waterproofing
Testing Drawer Movement: Test the drawer’s movement to identify and address any friction points. Ensure the toilet fits snugly within the drawer and that the drawer locks securely in both open and closed positions.
Applying Silicone: Apply clear silicone around all edges of the hatch and drawer to ensure a waterproof seal.
Wiring the Toilet
Connecting the Fan and Light: Connect the wiring for the built-in fan and light on the Cuddy composting toilet. Make sure the wires have enough slack to prevent tension when the drawer is in use.
Testing the System: Test the wiring and functionality of the toilet to ensure everything operates smoothly.
Conclusion
I think this setup by Tim and Katie is practical and convenient for van life enthusiasts. For a detailed visual guide, watch the video of course and for more van conversion tips, visit Tim and Katie's YouTube channel.
