Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 6 days ago
Here's how to make cheap shelter for doing an engine swap outside. I couldn't find a portable structure on the market that would fit an entire 158-in Sprinter van. I didn't want something really heavy and large with a bunch of poles to lug around. this is what I came up with using a 30 ft by 60 ft silver tarp, 60 lb magnets from harbor freight, 1000 lumen 20 volt Bauer work lights with Braun lighting tripods, a folding table, folding chair, six rolls of 6 ft x 8 ft outdoor carpet from home Depot, a pop-up canopy, and four 20 ft long 2x4s on the roof ($11 each). This setup is only 70 lb, and it can roll up into a tote or one big roll. I probably could have made this setup work with a 30 ft by 40 ft tarp or a 30x50 tarp but I figured too much is better than too little. reviews say the harbor freight 30x60 9 mil silver tarp may only last 3 months in the sun before ripping on corners especially. the tarp is so big I would be able to double it up and cover my entire 158-in sprinter.
Here's how to make cheap shelter for doing an engine swap outside. I couldn't find a portable structure on the market that would fit an entire 158-in Sprinter van. I didn't want something really heavy and large with a bunch of poles to lug around. this is what I came up with using a 30 ft by 60 ft silver tarp, 60 lb magnets from harbor freight, 1000 lumen 20 volt Bauer work lights with Braun lighting tripods, a folding table, folding chair, six rolls of 6 ft x 8 ft outdoor carpet from home Depot, a pop-up canopy, and four 20 ft long 2x4s on the roof ($11 each). This setup is only 70 lb, and it can roll up into a tote or one big roll. I probably could have made this setup work with a 30 ft by 40 ft tarp or a 30x50 tarp but I figured too much is better than too little. reviews say the harbor freight 30x60 9 mil silver tarp may only last 3 months in the sun before ripping on corners especially. the tarp is so big I would be able to double it up and cover my entire 158-in sprinter.
