I always like the “what I would do differently” videos. Some of the things you pointed out can be modified and some (like the trailer size) are a little more permanent. But even there, you can create a tent extension out the back whatever size you want. Where there is a will, there is a way. Great video.
They need a group page of people who do these types of camping and projects. I am using a 6by8 steel floor and 2 foot metal wall setup and starting out with a campers shell, fits perfectly except for 2 inches. Giving me 60 inches inside from floor to ceiling. Wheel well is outside the wall so two storage areas down each side at 18-20 inch wide and my cot in the middle. Buddy heating with two tanks on the front area outside with the tool box.
Watched the time-lapsed build and then this video. Your attention to detail and workmanship is fantastic. From wood work to metal work to electrical to design. All looks professional. I hope your channel takes off. So much good info here. Good luck!
We have a 5x10 v-nose trailer with a side door. The extra 2 feet make a HUGE difference - and is quite adequate for my son's use as a dorm room in college ( 2 years so far ).
great info and nice build no matter how much forethought goes into something, the design will have issues. it is the process of iteration and experience that enables you to move closer to the perfect setup.
Good informative video Joel, and with my very recent purchase of a 6'x10' the multiple sources of information are invaluable, and have to be for my wife as well as myself in design. A week at the hunt camp might be o'k for me and that is where it ends. Now in costing batteries, solar panels, invertors, charge controllers and whatever, the power banks that are expensive, seem to be a good option.
Good lessons learned. After watching the walk-around video, I was feeling a little guilty about having a 6x10 to work with, but now that you've realized a little more space would be nice, I feel better. ;-)
I think for the bothersome lights at night I'd just velcro some black fabric/material to block off the glow of the lights...much like you putting tape over them. great video thanks for sharing...
Just catching up on the videos I’ve missed. This is a good one... always easier after everything is built to see what we could have done differently. I hear you with those lights from the gauges, got the same issues. In the end awesome trailer and I think it’s nice to have a smaller trailer... perfect fit for your ranger. 👌 Let’s see some of those winter camping videos now. 😄
@@JoelTremblayCA Thanks for the video. What is the total weight of your trailer? I am building a similar floor plan in 6X10". I am also pulling it with a Ranger equipped with 3.0 L engine and manual transmission. I am trying to keep the weight down to a minimum because of this. I also already realized i should have gone with thicker paneling as it is already buckling on the walls. Hope to have it on the road before spring.
@@tractormandeere I haven't weighted the trailer yet but my rough estimate is 1500lbs. I'd be careful and just triple check your load rating. I know manual transmission, your tow rating is less. Thanks for watching!!
Great video! Thanks for sharing! With regards to the battery monitor; I've got the same one and found that if you hold down both arrow buttons at the same time, for about 3 seconds, it dims the display considerably. It's only one of the lights, but, damn, it sure is a bright one. Saw your beauty trailer on Cheaper Jeeper and love it! Well done man!
Hi Joel, at least all the things you mentioned, are easy Fixes. It’s just a matter of making a Cover for the Lights. Changing the Battery might be Costly, but it would be worth it where you are located. I would still Love to have a Trailer like that.👍😁
Hi Joel. I am going through 2nd level upgrades. That is why I copied your cedar ceiling. It turned out great. The reason why I did that was a bit like one of your regrets. I also used 3x8 panels to cover the ceiling and the walls. It is 1/8" luan and although cheap it degrades. For the walls it isn't too bad but the ceiling it looked awful. In the near future I am going to install maybe 2 windows. So I also will have to cut through that paneling. I hope I don't make any mistakes. Lasly your primary concern was the size of your trailer. From the second I first saw your project I felt it was too small. I have a 6 x 12 V nose and sometimes that is too small. However because of improving my design and stuff like the new cedar ceiling it becomes more and more liveable. This size makes it a good compromise between a tiny house on wheels and being able to go away from the cement at least a little. Lastly it is tough to build around yourself. I live in mine full time and have done for 4 years. Working inside while living there is a pain.
So, on the bed comfort, I've seen people who have purchased something similar and what they do is add one of those very thin inflatable backpacking sleeping pads underneath. I don't know if that would slip around too much, but they say it adds a lot of support to the thin foams.
Thermarest! That's exactly what I've been doing. It works good. Only thing is I can't fold the wall up if they're inflated and on the bed. The other thing I've done is just use an air mattress.
@@JoelTremblayCA I'm going to be looking into a 7x14 but 6x12 is very popular, too. Well, I hope you get another one and do another series. I enjoyed it so much. I've watched tons and yours is at the top. No idea why it doesn't have more views. Although, some of those fast-forward head-cam shots made me queasy...hahah.
@@amythinks haha yes, no more headcam time-lapse videos, they didn't turn out that great. I am very eager to get into a larger trailer and see what I can come up with! For now, I will enjoy this little prototype :)
Great video & thank you for sharing your experiences. I'm in the process of building a 4'X8' (limited by tow vehicle) enclosed trailer and your videos have been a great help in building my trailer. Thank you again for sharing your experiences.
I'm about to buy a 6x10 trailer and build it out. I'm looking at going with a minimalist style, as it appears to me you have chosen to do. I'm going to go with a twin hybrid mattress on a custom built frame. I am older now, so I need a little more height to be able to get out of bed easier, and the added height will allow me more storage underneath. I'm not planning on building in a kitchen. Instead, I'm planning to use a pop up screen tent as a kitchen, and until I build in a 3/4 bath, my bathroom. I'm not going to put solar on the roof initially, instead I will use portable panels, or build folding prop up frames and use the same flexible panels I will eventually put on the roof. I'll need to build the trim where the top of the wall meets the ceiling, so that I can easily take it off, and put in any future wiring. With the added length, I can put in a wall at the rear of the trailer, set inside from the rear door a couple feet, to use as a garage and porch. That's where I'll put in the gravity feed to fill future standard water tanks, as well as a pass through for solar. All my internal solar components can be installed here for easy access. In that wall, I plan on putting in a cut down storm door, and installing whichever vent fan I choose to go with. Not sure if I am going to go with a drop down ramp door, or barn doors. Both have their appeal. If I go with a ramp, I think I'm going to take it off, and mount it so that it opens upwards, and I have a built in awning. I watched a video where they did that, and I really liked the idea. We'll see. Until I get a proper solar system installed, I' going to go with something along the lines of a Jackery. I won't have many power needs. This should suffice, for now. Eventually, I will go with LiPO batteries, mounted in the inside front, so they don't drop below freezing. Every wall, all the doors, the floor, and the ceiling will be insulated, so I can operate in all four seasons if I wish. Any future white/black tanks will be installed on top of the floor insulation, and I'll need to raise the floor over them. That's down the road, with a proper 3/4 bath install in the nose. For cooking, I plan on using a mix of induction plate and at least a rocket stove, if not a standard two-burner camp stove. Cassette toilet for restroom needs, at least to start. As for heating, I am really liking the idea of using a small wood burning stove, like y'all use for hot tents and ice fishing. I don't necessarily want to have to rely on a steady supply of propane. The folks in the videos I've seen these being used said they were very effective, with the only downside of having to tend it a couple times a night. Not really an issue for me. So I think the only modifications to the side of the trailer, is a hole for the smoke stack tubing, a hole for solar in, and probably a means to hang and secure a ladder so I can clean off the roof panels. I'll be moving in with family very short term once my current lease is ended. That will allow me to secure the trailer, and fit it out to at least be liveable. My mother is going to allow me to use her home as a permanent address, and she will forward my mail to me. In exchange, I will pay her a couple/few hundred bucks a month. That will help her out, Social Security just isn't cutting it. Once on the road, I'll avail myself of friends across the country, as well as fellow nomads with the know how, to finish up my trailer. I hope to be at the RTR for the first time, at the end of the year down in Quartzite. I'm actually aiming to be on the road fully by the end of summer, with a few short test runs before that. And who knows, we may run into each other up in Ontario. I have a friend up there I want to visit. Haven't seen her in several years. She has plenty of space for me to park a trailer for a visit, and having a place of my own, rather than a hotel stay, will be very welcome.
Not a bad little build, really. Extra studs in the framing would help the wall flex. Locking legs on the beds and table are an easy fix. Folding chairs instead of sitting on the bed fixes the table leg issue
You can buy heat pads for your battery, they would be cheaper than the four hundred they want for the upgraded battery. Freely roaming used them in his battery build if you haven't seen them and want to check them out. Your build looks nice, God bless!!
Yes I'm aware of the heat pads! The only problem with them is throughout the winter, if they're connected to the battery, they will be on continuously. I will end up installing a heat pad for mine, but if I were to do it again I'd just get the battery with it built in, that turns on only when needed. Thank you for commenting! :)
@@JoelTremblayCA for ten bucks you can get the temperature control, it draws on next to nothing. So it doesn't run unless temperature drops below your shutoff temp. The pads are around twenty bucks for four, so for 370 less than the 400 dollar upgrade you can do what they have done. Not knocking them, from what i hear they have good batteries, i hear battleborn are good to. But for the thousand plus they get for a hundred amp i built a 280ah lifepo4 bank and was able to but a 60a mppt controller, and a 1,500 watt inverter and have a complete system with nearly 3x the ah. I haven't priced your battery, how much was it if you don't mind my asking?
@@checkingoutgypsymike2075 The difference between battleborn and canbat cold rated batteries is the "phasing" of charging in sub-zero temps. What I mean by this is that traditional heated batteries will have a built-in temp sensor, and will turn the heater on once the temp drops below a certain value. (same thing with diy like you have mentioned) and that is great but imagine that battery sitting for 2 weeks without charge with the heater running, it will eventually run the battery out. What Canbat has told me is that their heater will only draw power from a charger, when the bms detects it connected. So the battery will see a charger connected, turn the heater on, and once the temp of the battery is above freezing, let current enter the battery to charge. It makes total sense in my mind. It sounds like you know what you're talking about when it comes to batteries and the complexities of off-grid systems. I'm not an expert, just some guy sharing my honest experiences. I have a couple of other videos where I go over my electrical build, prices, and reasons for selecting certain products. The battery cost me around $1000 tax in. Yes building your own batteries is definitely cheaper than buying from a company. I was going for peace of mind and convenience of not having to worry about messing something up. Given that I had built everything else, I wanted a head-ache free process when it comes to the electrical system. I think when I add my heat pad, I will install a switch, so if I plan to charge my battery I will turn the heat pad on first a few hours before I plug the charger in. When I am not using the battery I can simply keep it turned off. Think that would work? The other thing that I might run the numbers on is to see if my solar can make-up the heater running continuously, I think those pads are 45watts. Some insulation around the battery would help.
@@JoelTremblayCA Your absolutely correct on the ease of mind lol, if i had 7,000 bucks to get the almost 600 ah's my 2 banks give me it wouldn't have taken me 6 months of research to figure out the little i know. From what I've read renogy has the same capabilities on power saving, you can have the heat pads run directly off the solar panels thus saving draw from the battery. I live in michigan, so the snow covering them if i wasn't here would keep that from working not to mention there wouldn't be a need if im not hear to use it. Luckily sitting in -20 below won't hurt the lifepo4 cells so it's not an issue. Im looking into the ability to turn on heat pads via remote, i came across an article mentioning it and want to check it out more in depth. I imagine it is done thru a smart shunt, but i don't want to assume that's a fact. You know what they say about that lol. I just thought I'd mention it, i didn't know if you were aware of the option. Or others who may be in the same boat, no sense in throwing the baby out with the bathwater, if you have a good working battery that will last 10 years getting rid of it for a better one would be hard to do. And i have watched your solar install videos, really enjoyed them. Especially the panel install, that's a nice garage you were working in. Made me wish i had tall ceilings like yours, i can barely back my trailer up to get it under my lean-to when it rains. It's been a scorcher working in it with the sun beating down, my baggage door is 6 weeks out so i can't put my window ac in yet. I took the day ofc today to hydrate lol, and thanks for the videos, much appreciated. Yours and Luke Fugates were great in helping me learn, be safe and God bless!!
Hey Joel, did you have to change the trailer hubs to match the lug pattern of the wheels on your truck? Great vid. A lot of this can be fixed very easily . Like a wedge piece that swings out of the back wall to support the table maybe?
Love your videos man, just bought myself a 6x10. Stripping it down right now and getting to work. My layout will have to be a bit different due to the fact that it has a side door, but all in all I’m stoked about it. Any ideas?
Great set up on your electrical. I'm building something similar for my 10x12 off grid cabin. Curious, any complaints on the Renogy 2000 w Inverter Charger? I'm thinking about adding one to my system. Thanks
Honestly I haven't had any issues with the inverter but I wouldn't recommend you go with Renogy based on experiences I've heard. Go with Victron! Thanks for watching
Yes most of these are totally fixable! I have thought about making an insulated battery holder, just haven't gotten around to designing and building it yet! :) thanks for watching.
Thanks for sharing your video Joel! I always enjoy watching your videos! I do like the 5x10 but I think we will always wish we went the next size up no matter what we got but I do admit I am very happy with the 5x10. I used the last 20" for a rear kitchen galley. Would you want a side door if you were to do it again and had a 5x10? I think you should build another one Joel, however that is me being selfish as I just like your videos!
Yeah that always seems to be the problem! Always wanting more. I've given it some thinking and the problem I see with the back galley (a great design) but you lose the functionality of the utility trailer / toy hauler. My goal with this was multi purpose and I personally think a back galley would strictly turn it into a camper. Nothing wrong with that at all, I just wanted to explore different uses :) I'd love to build another one!
I completely get that thought!...and if thats the goal to not be just a camper makes total sense. I will say I made my entire cabin portion removable and my side door is 31" wide so I can still use it to move a decent amount of cargo no problem but wouldnt be able to load a quad or something like that. I was suprised how wide the side door was which then made me more willing to do the galley kitchen. I think the ultimate would be a 6x12 but I really want to keep it small and be able to tow it easily and to be able to take it places a larger one couldn't go.
@@projectsandadventureswithm7457 I agree with you on that one. I think a 6x12 would make the ultimate micro camper, with kitchen, shower and you could have interesting bed configurations to support a couple and a few kids!
I mean it works and I haven't had an issue with it. That being said, I've heard customer support is a nightmare. I'd go with Victron second time around. More expensive but higher quality product. www.canbat.com/battery/7/
@@JoelTremblayCA thanks. There's so many different opinions out there checking forums that it gets confusing to me. I've already set up 30 amp shore power, but my battery system isn't right for it. I'm lacking in the bank size and want more than one way to charge my bank. I'm in the middle of a leather shop conversion and live offgrid already. Using a isolation system in my truck with a high amp alternator, but it's still not enough to run things like my air compressor or heater. I've got 2 100ah batteries now, waiting for some other things to show up. I'm definitely adding solar so that I'll have a total of 3 ways to charge, dc to dc via truck, shore power on generator or if I'm lucky to get actual power, and solar. I plan on being mobile and traveling while working.
Yes that's exactly what it means. The extra "foot" I'm talking about is because I currently only have 1 foot at the end of the bed, so having another foot would help a lot. Thanks for watching
Love your videos but still don't have the confidence to start. I am sure we live close by. If you want a job on the side I have a 5x8 v nose that I want to convert and could use the help getting started.
Thanks for watching! Glad you've been enjoying the videos. It's something new and fun to learn, the beauty of it all is you can do it at your own pace. If you are able to physically, I say give it a go!
Very interesting. Thank you for sharing what you would do differently. We’re getting ready to do a cargo trailer build for full time nomad life. We’re downsizing and minimizing from a travel trailer. Your videos are so helpful!! ~carol
When I first saw your video, it was obvious to me (I'm over 65, so I know how to use a screw driver and draw a layout to scale..!!!) that you should have taken the time to review other boob toober builds before building yours, so you would not have to re-build the entire thing again, wasting more time and especially money.. The table leg was painfully obvious.. LOL!
That's great that you've been able to get the experience and skills to be able to know these things. Any kind of trade skill is... well... That, a "skill". Skills are only improved over the act of doing, patience, and practice! I hope that you're able to take the time and share your wisdom to others! The younger generation can definitely use it :) I won't be rebuilding anything. I have no regrets taking under the construction of something that works for me and that I actually use! The purpose of this video was to inform others who might want to know some do's and don'ts. Thanks for watching.
@@JoelTremblayCA The point being that if you would have drawn the layout to scale, you would not need 2' in the length.. The mattress topper material is a dead giveaway to lack of thought.. Also, I would not trust that 3/4" chine strip under the plywood deck (bed) for adult usage. The table leg would work if the trailer was wider...!!! As it is, the trailer is a small bathroom, and you have to go outside to change your mind... LOL! But, it works as a sleeper/out of the weather habitat and I do like most of your workmanship.. Good luck..
@@pjf7943 I appreciate your opinion but maybe you should have a look through some of my other content. Every single element of this trailer was carefully thought out. It may not be the trailer for you, and that is fine. It is the trailer for me and that's what matters. I could give you reasons for every nit picky thing you have mentioned above but I would rather spend my time doing something more rewarding. Thanks for commenting.
@@JoelTremblayCA How can you possibly say "Every single element of this trailer was carefully thought out", when you made this video saying the complete opposite..????? LOL!!!! IT'S ALL IN THE TITLE OF THIS VIDEO.!! LOL!!! I DID watch "some of your other content" , laughed at the design and process, then moved on realizing that you don't have the qualifications or thoughtfulness necessary because you had $$$$ signs within 2" of your face instead of stepping back and realizing that a few $$$$ more would have built a more accommodating trailer..... Continue trying to alibi for your shortsightedness and have the last word if you must.... People of your mindset always do.. boob toobers, ya don't have to luv 'em... LOL!
I always like the “what I would do differently” videos. Some of the things you pointed out can be modified and some (like the trailer size) are a little more permanent. But even there, you can create a tent extension out the back whatever size you want. Where there is a will, there is a way. Great video.
You are correct! Thanks for watching.
They need a group page of people who do these types of camping and projects. I am using a 6by8 steel floor and 2 foot metal wall setup and starting out with a campers shell, fits perfectly except for 2 inches. Giving me 60 inches inside from floor to ceiling. Wheel well is outside the wall so two storage areas down each side at 18-20 inch wide and my cot in the middle. Buddy heating with two tanks on the front area outside with the tool box.
Watched the time-lapsed build and then this video. Your attention to detail and workmanship is fantastic. From wood work to metal work to electrical to design. All looks professional. I hope your channel takes off. So much good info here. Good luck!
Amazing! Thank you for your support. Cheers!
Thank you for the update, I am sure many people will benefit from your experience.
Thanks for the support! Got a new update video now on-top of this one haha.
We have a 5x10 v-nose trailer with a side door. The extra 2 feet make a HUGE difference - and is quite adequate for my son's use as a dorm room in college ( 2 years so far ).
That's awesome to hear :)
great info and nice build
no matter how much forethought goes into something, the design will have issues. it is the process of iteration and experience that enables you to move closer to the perfect setup.
Agreed! Thank you!
Good informative video Joel, and with my very recent purchase of a 6'x10' the multiple sources of information are invaluable, and have to be for my wife as well as myself in design. A week at the hunt camp might be o'k for me and that is where it ends. Now in costing batteries, solar panels, invertors, charge controllers and whatever, the power banks that are expensive, seem to be a good option.
Thanks for watching! Good luck with your build. Make sure checkout the other videos on the channel!
Good lessons learned. After watching the walk-around video, I was feeling a little guilty about having a 6x10 to work with, but now that you've realized a little more space would be nice, I feel better. ;-)
Thank you and good luck with your build Don!
Easy fix for your table is to use rope or chain to hold it in place from the top to where it folds down from
That's a great idea!
I think for the bothersome lights at night I'd just velcro some black fabric/material to block off the glow of the lights...much like you putting tape over them. great video thanks for sharing...
Yeah that's a great idea! Thanks for the feedback :)
All the things can be modified and fixed. DO it as you have time and money. Great job!
Thanks Lee!
BRO, VERRY CLEAN WIRING BATTERY BUILD! ! ! Sweet job!
Thank you! I Appreciate the comment. Thanks for watching
Just catching up on the videos I’ve missed. This is a good one... always easier after everything is built to see what we could have done differently. I hear you with those lights from the gauges, got the same issues. In the end awesome trailer and I think it’s nice to have a smaller trailer... perfect fit for your ranger. 👌 Let’s see some of those winter camping videos now. 😄
Thanks for watching! Yes I'm excited to get out and do some winter camping paired with overnight ice fishing!
@@JoelTremblayCA Thanks for the video. What is the total weight of your trailer? I am building a similar floor plan in 6X10". I am also pulling it with a Ranger equipped with 3.0 L engine and manual transmission. I am trying to keep the weight down to a minimum because of this. I also already realized i should have gone with thicker paneling as it is already buckling on the walls. Hope to have it on the road before spring.
@@tractormandeere I haven't weighted the trailer yet but my rough estimate is 1500lbs. I'd be careful and just triple check your load rating. I know manual transmission, your tow rating is less. Thanks for watching!!
Great video! Thanks for sharing! With regards to the battery monitor; I've got the same one and found that if you hold down both arrow buttons at the same time, for about 3 seconds, it dims the display considerably. It's only one of the lights, but, damn, it sure is a bright one. Saw your beauty trailer on Cheaper Jeeper and love it! Well done man!
Yess I accidentally changed the brightness and have been loving it haha. Thanks for coming by and watching! Cheers.
With the table you can use some kind of pull system instead of a leg with cable wire on each side. Which you can still do
How we grow you have a super life my friend with that newborn.
You did a great job with the wireing,you kept it neat.
Thank you!
I agree!
Cool, When I build mine I will go with portable solar generator, small wood burning stove, wire for 110, propane appliances. That's all you need.
Right on! Sounds like a good plan.
Hi Joel, at least all the things you mentioned, are easy Fixes. It’s just a matter of making a Cover for the Lights. Changing the Battery might be Costly, but it would be worth it where you are located. I would still Love to have a Trailer like that.👍😁
Make sure to checkout my latest video on my trailer. Thanks for watching! Cheers!
Love the ideas. I'll keep this in mind when I get a cargo trailer myself for work and maybe camping too
Thanks for watching! Good luck on the trailer hunt.
Many of the 10 things you’d do differently can still be done differently and won’t cost much. Great videos
For sure, I will be doing some of the changes. Thanks for watching :)
Really like the front storage, wish id taken the time to do that in mine
Thanks Sean!
Thanks Joel! You've given me more to think about as I plan my conversion.
Awesome to hear! Thanks for watching.
Hi Joel. I am going through 2nd level upgrades. That is why I copied your cedar ceiling. It turned out great. The reason why I did that was a bit like one of your regrets. I also used 3x8 panels to cover the ceiling and the walls. It is 1/8" luan and although cheap it degrades. For the walls it isn't too bad but the ceiling it looked awful. In the near future I am going to install maybe 2 windows. So I also will have to cut through that paneling. I hope I don't make any mistakes.
Lasly your primary concern was the size of your trailer. From the second I first saw your project I felt it was too small. I have a 6 x 12 V nose and sometimes that is too small. However because of improving my design and stuff like the new cedar ceiling it becomes more and more liveable. This size makes it a good compromise between a tiny house on wheels and being able to go away from the cement at least a little. Lastly it is tough to build around yourself. I live in mine full time and have done for 4 years. Working inside while living there is a pain.
Thanks for sharing your experience and feedback! Safe travels and don't forget to step back and admire all the hard work you've put into it. Cheers!
I think the wall board looks good. Maybe just a glue adhesive might of helped.
Yeah perhaps! I did add adhesive to the wall strapping when putting the boards on... Just not on the insulation. Thanks for watching.
So, on the bed comfort, I've seen people who have purchased something similar and what they do is add one of those very thin inflatable backpacking sleeping pads underneath. I don't know if that would slip around too much, but they say it adds a lot of support to the thin foams.
Thermarest! That's exactly what I've been doing. It works good. Only thing is I can't fold the wall up if they're inflated and on the bed. The other thing I've done is just use an air mattress.
@@JoelTremblayCA I'm going to be looking into a 7x14 but 6x12 is very popular, too. Well, I hope you get another one and do another series. I enjoyed it so much. I've watched tons and yours is at the top. No idea why it doesn't have more views. Although, some of those fast-forward head-cam shots made me queasy...hahah.
@@amythinks haha yes, no more headcam time-lapse videos, they didn't turn out that great. I am very eager to get into a larger trailer and see what I can come up with! For now, I will enjoy this little prototype :)
@@JoelTremblayCA You should have said "It works well"...! LOL!
The next build will be even more fun Joel!
Thanks for sharing Joel,,, It saved me from making some mistakes also,, THANKS!
Awesome glad you found the video helpful! Thanks for watching.
You could use a small cable to support the table.
Yeah I thought about this but struggled on how I'd keep it out of the way.
Could you show what you did for a doorknob/lock for the barndoor? I want to build a 5x8 too. Thanks.
All of that can be found on my channel! I have a seperate video just on the RV door latch. Thanks for watching.
Great video & thank you for sharing your experiences. I'm in the process of building a 4'X8' (limited by tow vehicle) enclosed trailer and your videos have been a great help in building my trailer. Thank you again for sharing your experiences.
Thanks for watching! I appreciate the feedback and good luck with your build!
Joel me encanta el concepto de tu trailer..espacio...múltiple uso...
Gracias!
Great vlog, super functional trailer. Regards from U.K. AJ
I'm about to buy a 6x10 trailer and build it out. I'm looking at going with a minimalist style, as it appears to me you have chosen to do. I'm going to go with a twin hybrid mattress on a custom built frame. I am older now, so I need a little more height to be able to get out of bed easier, and the added height will allow me more storage underneath. I'm not planning on building in a kitchen. Instead, I'm planning to use a pop up screen tent as a kitchen, and until I build in a 3/4 bath, my bathroom. I'm not going to put solar on the roof initially, instead I will use portable panels, or build folding prop up frames and use the same flexible panels I will eventually put on the roof. I'll need to build the trim where the top of the wall meets the ceiling, so that I can easily take it off, and put in any future wiring.
With the added length, I can put in a wall at the rear of the trailer, set inside from the rear door a couple feet, to use as a garage and porch. That's where I'll put in the gravity feed to fill future standard water tanks, as well as a pass through for solar. All my internal solar components can be installed here for easy access. In that wall, I plan on putting in a cut down storm door, and installing whichever vent fan I choose to go with. Not sure if I am going to go with a drop down ramp door, or barn doors. Both have their appeal. If I go with a ramp, I think I'm going to take it off, and mount it so that it opens upwards, and I have a built in awning. I watched a video where they did that, and I really liked the idea. We'll see. Until I get a proper solar system installed, I' going to go with something along the lines of a Jackery. I won't have many power needs. This should suffice, for now. Eventually, I will go with LiPO batteries, mounted in the inside front, so they don't drop below freezing. Every wall, all the doors, the floor, and the ceiling will be insulated, so I can operate in all four seasons if I wish. Any future white/black tanks will be installed on top of the floor insulation, and I'll need to raise the floor over them. That's down the road, with a proper 3/4 bath install in the nose.
For cooking, I plan on using a mix of induction plate and at least a rocket stove, if not a standard two-burner camp stove. Cassette toilet for restroom needs, at least to start. As for heating, I am really liking the idea of using a small wood burning stove, like y'all use for hot tents and ice fishing. I don't necessarily want to have to rely on a steady supply of propane. The folks in the videos I've seen these being used said they were very effective, with the only downside of having to tend it a couple times a night. Not really an issue for me. So I think the only modifications to the side of the trailer, is a hole for the smoke stack tubing, a hole for solar in, and probably a means to hang and secure a ladder so I can clean off the roof panels.
I'll be moving in with family very short term once my current lease is ended. That will allow me to secure the trailer, and fit it out to at least be liveable. My mother is going to allow me to use her home as a permanent address, and she will forward my mail to me. In exchange, I will pay her a couple/few hundred bucks a month. That will help her out, Social Security just isn't cutting it. Once on the road, I'll avail myself of friends across the country, as well as fellow nomads with the know how, to finish up my trailer. I hope to be at the RTR for the first time, at the end of the year down in Quartzite. I'm actually aiming to be on the road fully by the end of summer, with a few short test runs before that. And who knows, we may run into each other up in Ontario. I have a friend up there I want to visit. Haven't seen her in several years. She has plenty of space for me to park a trailer for a visit, and having a place of my own, rather than a hotel stay, will be very welcome.
Sounds like a solid plan! Good luck with the build. Thanks for watching. Safe travels and building!
Very cool setup 👍
Thank you! I appreciate it.
you can add a thermostat and a heater to your battery from parts on amazon
Yes correct, but then the heater will always be drawing power from the battery when it's below freezing.
Not a bad little build, really. Extra studs in the framing would help the wall flex. Locking legs on the beds and table are an easy fix. Folding chairs instead of sitting on the bed fixes the table leg issue
Very good points! Thanks for watching.
What is the longest period of time you have spent in your trailer? Could you live in it for months at a time?
Thanks for watching! I've done several days but that's it so far. If I had the free time, I definitely could see a few months being possible!
You can buy heat pads for your battery, they would be cheaper than the four hundred they want for the upgraded battery. Freely roaming used them in his battery build if you haven't seen them and want to check them out. Your build looks nice, God bless!!
Yes I'm aware of the heat pads! The only problem with them is throughout the winter, if they're connected to the battery, they will be on continuously. I will end up installing a heat pad for mine, but if I were to do it again I'd just get the battery with it built in, that turns on only when needed.
Thank you for commenting! :)
@@JoelTremblayCA for ten bucks you can get the temperature control, it draws on next to nothing. So it doesn't run unless temperature drops below your shutoff temp.
The pads are around twenty bucks for four, so for 370 less than the 400 dollar upgrade you can do what they have done. Not knocking them, from what i hear they have good batteries, i hear battleborn are good to. But for the thousand plus they get for a hundred amp i built a 280ah lifepo4 bank and was able to but a 60a mppt controller, and a 1,500 watt inverter and have a complete system with nearly 3x the ah. I haven't priced your battery, how much was it if you don't mind my asking?
@@checkingoutgypsymike2075 The difference between battleborn and canbat cold rated batteries is the "phasing" of charging in sub-zero temps. What I mean by this is that traditional heated batteries will have a built-in temp sensor, and will turn the heater on once the temp drops below a certain value. (same thing with diy like you have mentioned) and that is great but imagine that battery sitting for 2 weeks without charge with the heater running, it will eventually run the battery out. What Canbat has told me is that their heater will only draw power from a charger, when the bms detects it connected. So the battery will see a charger connected, turn the heater on, and once the temp of the battery is above freezing, let current enter the battery to charge. It makes total sense in my mind. It sounds like you know what you're talking about when it comes to batteries and the complexities of off-grid systems. I'm not an expert, just some guy sharing my honest experiences. I have a couple of other videos where I go over my electrical build, prices, and reasons for selecting certain products. The battery cost me around $1000 tax in. Yes building your own batteries is definitely cheaper than buying from a company. I was going for peace of mind and convenience of not having to worry about messing something up. Given that I had built everything else, I wanted a head-ache free process when it comes to the electrical system.
I think when I add my heat pad, I will install a switch, so if I plan to charge my battery I will turn the heat pad on first a few hours before I plug the charger in. When I am not using the battery I can simply keep it turned off. Think that would work? The other thing that I might run the numbers on is to see if my solar can make-up the heater running continuously, I think those pads are 45watts. Some insulation around the battery would help.
@@JoelTremblayCA Your absolutely correct on the ease of mind lol, if i had 7,000 bucks to get the almost 600 ah's my 2 banks give me it wouldn't have taken me 6 months of research to figure out the little i know. From what I've read renogy has the same capabilities on power saving, you can have the heat pads run directly off the solar panels thus saving draw from the battery. I live in michigan, so the snow covering them if i wasn't here would keep that from working not to mention there wouldn't be a need if im not hear to use it.
Luckily sitting in -20 below won't hurt the lifepo4 cells so it's not an issue. Im looking into the ability to turn on heat pads via remote, i came across an article mentioning it and want to check it out more in depth. I imagine it is done thru a smart shunt, but i don't want to assume that's a fact. You know what they say about that lol. I just thought I'd mention it, i didn't know if you were aware of the option. Or others who may be in the same boat, no sense in throwing the baby out with the bathwater, if you have a good working battery that will last 10 years getting rid of it for a better one would be hard to do.
And i have watched your solar install videos, really enjoyed them. Especially the panel install, that's a nice garage you were working in. Made me wish i had tall ceilings like yours, i can barely back my trailer up to get it under my lean-to when it rains. It's been a scorcher working in it with the sun beating down, my baggage door is 6 weeks out so i can't put my window ac in yet. I took the day ofc today to hydrate lol, and thanks for the videos, much appreciated. Yours and Luke Fugates were great in helping me learn, be safe and God bless!!
Hey Joel, did you have to change the trailer hubs to match the lug pattern of the wheels on your truck? Great vid. A lot of this can be fixed very easily . Like a wedge piece that swings out of the back wall to support the table maybe?
Thanks for the comment! No, luckily the hubs of the trailer are a matching bolt pattern as the truck. Great idea on the table!
That's a nice trailer !!
Thank you!
"Having that extra foot would make this a little bit less awkward" That is what she said when he took out his micro -- "trailer". :) 1:11
😂😂
Love your videos man, just bought myself a 6x10. Stripping it down right now and getting to work. My layout will have to be a bit different due to the fact that it has a side door, but all in all I’m stoked about it. Any ideas?
That's awesome Adam! Good luck with your build. It's a blank slate, make it yours. Thanks for watching.
I have a 5x10 and want a 6x10+. 😆. Put a little Velcro on the bed/table legs
Haha always want to go bigger 😂
Great set up on your electrical. I'm building something similar for my 10x12 off grid cabin. Curious, any complaints on the Renogy 2000 w Inverter Charger? I'm thinking about adding one to my system. Thanks
Honestly I haven't had any issues with the inverter but I wouldn't recommend you go with Renogy based on experiences I've heard. Go with Victron! Thanks for watching
i noticed the table thing in your last video but all is fixable! Maybe an insulated battery holder?
Yes most of these are totally fixable! I have thought about making an insulated battery holder, just haven't gotten around to designing and building it yet! :) thanks for watching.
I really enjoyed these videos
Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed.
It’s called 2footitis!!!! It’s like when you buy a boat or a camper, you always wish you had 2” more!!!!! Lol
🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for the review. Overall still a good build.
Thanks Frank!
Really great video!
Thanks guys! Really appreciated :) safe travels.
Thanks for sharing your video Joel! I always enjoy watching your videos! I do like the 5x10 but I think we will always wish we went the next size up no matter what we got but I do admit I am very happy with the 5x10. I used the last 20" for a rear kitchen galley. Would you want a side door if you were to do it again and had a 5x10? I think you should build another one Joel, however that is me being selfish as I just like your videos!
Yeah that always seems to be the problem! Always wanting more. I've given it some thinking and the problem I see with the back galley (a great design) but you lose the functionality of the utility trailer / toy hauler. My goal with this was multi purpose and I personally think a back galley would strictly turn it into a camper. Nothing wrong with that at all, I just wanted to explore different uses :) I'd love to build another one!
I completely get that thought!...and if thats the goal to not be just a camper makes total sense. I will say I made my entire cabin portion removable and my side door is 31" wide so I can still use it to move a decent amount of cargo no problem but wouldnt be able to load a quad or something like that. I was suprised how wide the side door was which then made me more willing to do the galley kitchen. I think the ultimate would be a 6x12 but I really want to keep it small and be able to tow it easily and to be able to take it places a larger one couldn't go.
@@projectsandadventureswithm7457 I agree with you on that one. I think a 6x12 would make the ultimate micro camper, with kitchen, shower and you could have interesting bed configurations to support a couple and a few kids!
how do you like your renogy products? I'm looking at adding a DC to DC charging system with solar and still trying to find the right product
I mean it works and I haven't had an issue with it. That being said, I've heard customer support is a nightmare. I'd go with Victron second time around. More expensive but higher quality product. www.canbat.com/battery/7/
@@JoelTremblayCA thanks. There's so many different opinions out there checking forums that it gets confusing to me. I've already set up 30 amp shore power, but my battery system isn't right for it. I'm lacking in the bank size and want more than one way to charge my bank. I'm in the middle of a leather shop conversion and live offgrid already. Using a isolation system in my truck with a high amp alternator, but it's still not enough to run things like my air compressor or heater. I've got 2 100ah batteries now, waiting for some other things to show up. I'm definitely adding solar so that I'll have a total of 3 ways to charge, dc to dc via truck, shore power on generator or if I'm lucky to get actual power, and solar. I plan on being mobile and traveling while working.
@@maddawgnoll awesome to hear! Sounds like you've got a good plan. Good luck with the rest of your build. Thanks for watching!
Wouldn’t a 5x10 mean 2 extra feet in length versus a 5x8?
Yes that's exactly what it means. The extra "foot" I'm talking about is because I currently only have 1 foot at the end of the bed, so having another foot would help a lot. Thanks for watching
How is the inverter handling so far
It's holding up absolutely fine. I don't use it that often, but when I do use it, it works as it should! Thanks for watching.
Where do you buy a cargo trailer? Can someone pay you to create a trailer like this?
I bought mine used! You can also buy them new from any trailer dealer. I custom built everything for this. You could hire a contractor.
Love your videos but still don't have the confidence to start. I am sure we live close by. If you want a job on the side I have a 5x8 v nose that I want to convert and could use the help getting started.
Thanks for watching! Glad you've been enjoying the videos. It's something new and fun to learn, the beauty of it all is you can do it at your own pace. If you are able to physically, I say give it a go!
Very interesting. Thank you for sharing what you would do differently. We’re getting ready to do a cargo trailer build for full time nomad life. We’re downsizing and minimizing from a travel trailer. Your videos are so helpful!! ~carol
Thank you! That's awesome to hear. Good luck with your build.
When I first saw your video, it was obvious to me (I'm over 65, so I know how to use a screw driver and draw a layout to scale..!!!) that you should have taken the time to review other boob toober builds before building yours, so you would not have to re-build the entire thing again, wasting more time and especially money.. The table leg was painfully obvious.. LOL!
That's great that you've been able to get the experience and skills to be able to know these things. Any kind of trade skill is... well... That, a "skill". Skills are only improved over the act of doing, patience, and practice! I hope that you're able to take the time and share your wisdom to others! The younger generation can definitely use it :)
I won't be rebuilding anything. I have no regrets taking under the construction of something that works for me and that I actually use! The purpose of this video was to inform others who might want to know some do's and don'ts.
Thanks for watching.
@@JoelTremblayCA The point being that if you would have drawn the layout to scale, you would not need 2' in the length.. The mattress topper material is a dead giveaway to lack of thought.. Also, I would not trust that 3/4" chine strip under the plywood deck (bed) for adult usage. The table leg would work if the trailer was wider...!!! As it is, the trailer is a small bathroom, and you have to go outside to change your mind... LOL! But, it works as a sleeper/out of the weather habitat and I do like most of your workmanship.. Good luck..
@@pjf7943 I appreciate your opinion but maybe you should have a look through some of my other content. Every single element of this trailer was carefully thought out. It may not be the trailer for you, and that is fine. It is the trailer for me and that's what matters. I could give you reasons for every nit picky thing you have mentioned above but I would rather spend my time doing something more rewarding. Thanks for commenting.
@@JoelTremblayCA How can you possibly say "Every single element of this trailer was carefully thought out", when you made this video saying the complete opposite..????? LOL!!!! IT'S ALL IN THE TITLE OF THIS VIDEO.!! LOL!!! I DID watch "some of your other content" , laughed at the design and process, then moved on realizing that you don't have the qualifications or thoughtfulness necessary because you had $$$$ signs within 2" of your face instead of stepping back and realizing that a few $$$$ more would have built a more accommodating trailer..... Continue trying to alibi for your shortsightedness and have the last word if you must.... People of your mindset always do.. boob toobers, ya don't have to luv 'em... LOL!
There's no shame in earning honest money.
6 x 10 works better...
@@billisnice harder to pull down trailer though!