6. Side Mount Ladder Install
Installing a ladder on an adventure van build can significantly enhance its functionality and accessibility, making it easier to reach rooftop gear or perform maintenance tasks.
Purpose of a Ladder on the Van
My van build design includes a pretty active use of the roof space all of which will require a well placed ladder. Like most conversion van builds, I will have solar panels, LED spot lights, and a lightbar which may require occasional cleaning and maintenance. I also plan to mount a roof top storage box for emergency roadside gear, traction boards, a flagpole mount for my Paramotor windsock, and if I can pull it off, a rack for my Kayak. To access all of this fun I will of course require a well placed ladder.
Other uses vans require ladders for can include: Hanging camp lights such as string lights, or even to access a space to enjoy panoramic views.
Ladder Location Considerations: Side Access vs. Rear Access
When evaluating ladder location options for my sprinter van conversion, the two most common setups I considered were a side mount ladder, and a rear door mount ladder. Both of these options have their advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right location can be crucial for maximizing its utility and minimizing inconvenience.
Rear Access Ladders - Rear access ladders are mounted at the back of the van, providing direct access to the entire length of the roof. This is particularly beneficial for loading and unloading gear such as my desire to mount a Kayak. Rear ladders are also a more streamlined setup than a side mount ladder as they of course don’t protrude from the side of the vehicle. Rear access ladders are also offered in versions with a built in tire carrier. Moving the spare tire to the rear doors is a major advantage as the factory spare tire access is not easy to work with, and many aftermarket tire combinations wont fit the space. Additionally, the void left behind by moving the spare tire is extremely valuable space that can be repurposed for things such as a water tank, diesel heater, water pump, underfloor storage, and more! The disadvantage of rear mount ladders is that it is harder to access gear or components mounted toward the middle or front of the van.
Side Mount Ladders - Side access ladders are mounted on the side of the van as the name implies, providing easy and immediate access to one side of the roof. The advantage of this setup is that it offers a broader access to the roof. It also leaves the rear doors open for more storage such as cargo boxes, ski racks, and bike racks. The trade off here is that the side ladder protrudes off the side of the van.
Choosing the right ladder for a custom van build is a personal decision that hinges on your specific needs and preferences. When deciding between side and rear access ladders, consider how you intend to use your van or more specifically, what you plan to access on the roof and where will it be located.
Wheel Wrap Side Mount Ladder
After weighing all the pros and cons, and thinking about the specifics of my adventure van build, I decided on the wheel well side mount ladder from Flatline Van Co. The ladder is strong but lightweight, and easy to to install. I already decided on my roof rack from Flatline Van Co, so this made even more sense.
The wheel wrap design enables the ladder to cheat just enough toward the rear of the van to allow my newly install T-Vent passenger window to open and close. The ladder is also far enough away from the body of the van that it is compatible with Flarespace which I plan to install in the near future to allow room for my rear bed. I opted for the side mount ladder as I think the location is central enough to give me the maximum access to the components that I plan to mount on the roof which include: the solar panels, Maxx Fan, gear box, and traction boards. The one question that may be a bit of a stretch yet is a kayak rack but time will tell on that. I also intend to put a flagpole mount on the side of the ladder for my windsock when I go paramotoring. The side mount ladder is a better fit for the windsock because it is a fixed location vs the rear doors which I am in and out of too often.
Installing the Wheel Well Side Mount Ladder from Flatline Van Co.
The installation of the Side Mount Ladder is pretty simple. Make sure of course you have roof tracks. I did not, and had to install them in the previous article with my roof rack.
Assemble the Ladder - The ladder comes in a couple parts for ease of shipping. Assembly is pretty quick and straight forward. Make sure to install the screws hand tight until its assembled before tightening so you dont strip the screws out.
Layout & Test Fit - Test fit the completed ladder. Make sure it fits the space and needs that you are going for. For my design, I am checking that it works with my roof rack, which it should of course, and that it will clear my T-Vent passenger window and allow it to open and close. Other obstacles that could be a problem are a drivers side full length side step, or an undermount water tank.
Roof Track Nuts - Once we know that ladder fits well, we will slide the Track Nuts into position. The roof rack and the side mount ladder fasten the same way using track nuts. The nuts are slid into the tracks from the ends. Keep this in mind as you can pre-position the track nuts for the other component (roof rack or ladder whichever order you are working) during the install and avoid having to disassemble part of one install to do the other.
Secure to the Tracks - Align the ladder to the wheel well and connect it to rail nuts. Do not tighten yet.
Mounting Bracket - Attach the bottom mounting bracket to the ladder.
Support Bracket - Locate, mark, and drill the frame for the support bracket. (When marking the location, hold it in position and have a second person confirm fitment of the ladder and that it is still clear of the passenger window.) Fasten the support bracket to the van.
Mounting Plate - Fasten the mounting plate to the van
Final Check - Confirm fitment of the ladder one more time, and tighten everything in place
Final Thoughts
Whether you're planning to access your solar panels for cleaning and maintenance, or a rooftop cargo box for additional adventure gear, installing a ladder can significantly enhance your van's functionality and your overall travel experience. I found the install to be pretty easy, and really enjoy the benefits the ladder is providing. For my build it’s safe to say this is an essential upgrade.
