Almost every Sprinter van and Class B RV could use more room for storage. There is always something like shoes, camping supplies, and other miscellaneous items that do not have a designated spot because there isn’t really a good place to put them.
One way you can get more room is by utilizing the space above the driver and passenger seats. A headliner shelf can easily be installed over the cab without making any major vehicle modifications.
A headliner shelf can be purchased already manufactured from RB Components, but the price tag is not cheap. You can save a lot of money by purchasing a DIY template and cutting out your own shelf with plywood.
The US-based company Vancillary teamed up with a professional engineer to create a more affordable Headliner Shelf Kit. Their kit includes digital CAD plans, an optional paper template for a wooden shelf, mounting hardware, and detailed instructions with photographs. The shelf kit was designed to fit any Mercedes Sprinter Van high roof model from years 2007 to 2019.
The digital template and instructions are sent right away upon ordering. The included bracket and fastener kit takes about 3-5 days to receive.
No drilling is required—all you’ll need is a 3/8″ wrench, a flat-head screwdriver, a Philips screwdriver, T-20 & T-27 Torx bits. The shelf and brackets can be powder coated (or wood stained) in any color you choose to match the rest of your interior.
The digital plans can be taken to a local metal shop for production, but you’ll save the most money by cutting out your own shelf with their paper template and some plywood. A DIY plywood shelf will only cost you around $50 on average, while the metal fabrication could cost $150 or more depending on your area. Both options are still much less than buying a shelf already manufactured.
Using a template will save you not only money but also hours of your time. Creating a shelf without a predesigned template would take several hours of research and would not be guaranteed to fit right.
The Vancillary shelf plans have already been carefully measured to ensure a perfect fit above the cab. Once everything is ready, it only takes about an hour or two to set up the shelf.
Their Sprinter Van Headliner Shelf Kits are only $89.95 through their website with the option to also include the paper template for a wooden shelf ($29.95). You can learn more on their website at Vancillary.com.
See also: Watch This New Van Conversion Video Series For Free
Do It Yourself RV is a proud affiliate of Vancillary
