Start With a One-Line System Diagram
Draw the battery bank, main protection, positive and negative distribution, solar charge controller, DC-DC charger, shore charger, inverter and the major loads. The first drawing should show relationships, not every wire route.
Then Build a Circuit Schedule
For each circuit, record the device, voltage, expected current, protection rating, conductor size, approximate one-way length and destination. This makes purchasing and troubleshooting far easier.
Separate Diagram Logic From Physical Routing
A clean schematic shows electrical relationships. A second drawing can show where cables physically travel through the van. Keeping the two views separate reduces clutter and helps you plan penetrations, conduit and service access.
Label Both Ends of Every Cable
Labels should survive heat and vibration. Use consistent circuit names that match the fuse panel and your documentation. Future-you should not need to guess which red wire feeds the refrigerator.
Update the Diagram When the Build Changes
Real builds evolve. If a component moves or a circuit changes, update the documentation before closing the wall. An outdated diagram can be more confusing than having no diagram at all.
Safety Comes Before Convenience
Cable sizing, overcurrent protection, grounding and 120V AC practices are safety-critical. Follow component manuals, recognized electrical standards and local requirements, and have a qualified professional review the system when appropriate.
Turn the research into a build plan
The free guides on this site explain individual decisions. The Van Conversion Manual is designed to keep the major systems organized in one complete digital reference for the project.