Stove or NO stove

[sdwindansea]

We do not have a built in stove. Originally our SMB was going to be outfitted with propane and we still not want a permanent stove taking up the valuable counter space. However, we ended up deleting the propane system and are completely single fuel (diesel for the van, Espar furnace, flat plate). We started out with a portable propane stove and now use a portable butane stove. Both have worked great and the flexibility to use inside or outside of the van has been perfect for our needs. I also have a Cobb grill for when we want to go that route

I choose our camping meals based on several factors: ease of preparation, storage (does it take up a lot of fridge/cabinet space), taste/variety and finally ease of clean up. Almost all our meals taste great and can be cooked in a single pot and/or frying pan. We do not have a microwave, so that is not an option for us.

That all being said, everyone's needs and wants are different. I do like the suggestion of having the line plumbed in but do not add the actual stove. You can always add it later if needed.

[Ocsmb]

If money was no object I would go single source and run water heater, stove, furnace off diesel. So pricey going that route, however.

[purana182]

But diesel is no longer an option on a *new* build right? I thought the diesel engine was gone and only the V8 & V10 were options?

[Ocsmb]

Last time I checked a couple of years ago smb west was open to converting used vans.

[rob_gendreau]

Not sure if they are still doing them but propane can also run the fridge.

That being said it's one of those features where if in doubt, leave it out.


You can still cook inside without propane, and there are portable water heaters and space heaters too. But space, once sacrificed to built-ins, is hard to reclaim. And you may never need it. And the omit button saves money.

[Scalf77]

I will say the built in stove is the most underused item on my build sheet. But when I have to use it also one of the most appreciated. I also have propane heat and water heater, yes they take up room, but again when I need to use them they are so appreciated. They tend to extend the camping season, they are also useful on those long hauls where a rest stop or Walmart is your "campsite" for a night.

-greg

[BroncoHauler]

This would be on my list during a build.



http://dometic.com/enie/International/S ... taid=86361


Herb

[boywonder]

Herb: Any idea if these are available Stateside? .....seems like all of the online vendors are across the pond.

[rockbender]

Panther RV on ebay is about the only place I've seen the SMEV units, but I do know of folks that have come out of Van Specialties with them installed. If you're interested, I would contact VS and see if you might be able to buy one through them.

[Pntyrmvr]

Hi,

I think these units only come with an EU rating as they don't show up on the US Dometic web site.

Sweet looking piece of engineering though.

Regards,

Gavin