These are the feed and return pipes for the hot water system as viewed from the underside of the van at the back. That’s the fuel tank on the right. My brother sourced the pipe, which is radiator hose (he’s in the motor trade, remember?). As these pipes will be exposed and therefore are open to the elements, I thought it as well to protect them. The plastic foam insulation came from Travis Perkins and although meant for domestic use, will keep most little stones off and, of course, protect them from freezing. I found by far the best way to get the insulaton on the pipes was to wrap it round before feeding the pipes under the van (make sure to get the right size insulation for the pipes you want to use or it won’t fit!). Duct tape wrapped tightly round will help to hold it all together whilst you’re doing this.
An important addition to this (posted a year later) is to add some kind of draining system to be able to clear the pipes of water when the temperature drops below freezing and you’re not using the van on a daily basis. It was an oversight that cost me the price of another heat exchanger (£27) as it ruptured during the bad weather and caused antifreeze to be pumped into the water tank when I fired the engine up. Took me a little while to get my sense of humour back. Don’t make the same mistake!
