Yes, this is the way to go. I am retired and converted a cargo trailer and pull it with my pickup truck. I am a fulltime camper, been on the road for 6 yrs. now. I run around the southwest with plenty of BLM land and forest service roads for boondocking. I am a free range camper.
I would add that finding a HORSE trailer can be really good, too. They are built even stronger, and usually have insulation. They also have solid doors and windows already installed. Some of them have a "tack room" in the front, which can have built-in cabinets and desks, and some have bunks. On the local craisglist, I was too late to get one that had all those features with dual axles, built-in spare tire, and extensive tack room. It was in excellent shape - and they sold it for $2700.
Thank you for this video! I was going to buy a camper and I have looked at a few. No way am I going to pay those big bucks for a slap together piece of junk. So, I decided to build one. I stumbled onto your video and boy am I glad I did! This IS the answer. Thank you for saving me from thinking I should build the shell. The cargo trailer is a perfect solution.
one good thing about a cargo trailer, if your "builder inept" like I am, you can buy wood/chipwood/ heavy duty plastic tables from garage sales/and bolt them to your cargo trailer instead of trying to/hiring someone to build them. Depending on your weight limit and what is going to be housed on them, you can outfit your trailer for $100. I wanted to save up for small camper but they were running for $20k+ and wanted $2-5k down payment. I'm on a fix income of $900 and I don't want to be in debt for an rv for the next 10 years. There's a place about 300 miles from me that'll install any type of door and windows (just 2) for $500, which I know if a good deal. Also, if you need to upgrade/downgrade, the value of these pretty good for a resale.There's no hidden issues with them as with RVs. You can look in, walk around and see there's no water spots, "soft" areas or crappy installation (or if there is, its simple and cheap to replace)
Thank you. The act of building the camper is itself recreational, exercising the body and mind. Even if you end up never using it, building a camper is the same as camping.
Very good points, and I have always loved airstream.... Originally, I wanted to live in a warehouse, so I could have a studio and live in the same place. And you can just lock it up, steel bars across doors when you're not there, & nobody knows the difference. Still haven't given up on it, just want a freestanding out alone building now. Privacy/security. But in interim, a cargo trailet would be good! Just me and my 4legged child, & an F150Crew. Hard part, giving up 1.5 acres fenced in a small town of 22k. But thanks for the wonderfully great ideas. Muchly appreciated! Kudos!👍😎🙏🇺🇸
This is completely spot on! We bought a used 24ft RV years ago and fought with leaks constantly. Just last year, we converted our 10 x 6 box trailer into a camper/box trailer and love it so much! I will never purchase anything else and because our conversion was so well made, I feel like it will last a lifetime. Nice video! I subscribed and gave it a like.😊
PERFECT. I did the same research and came to the same conclusion. I started with a 8.5 x 18 Continental Cargo trailer. I wanted a drop door to haul my dune buggy. I wanted to use it as a camper, at the same time. I wanted solar, batteries and hot and cold water. I built it for the bed to lower to 15 inches off the floor, raise to the ceiling to get the buggy in. I can travel with it up. I can drop it half way down and sleep above the buggy. The drop leaf table goes against the wall or drops for use. 75 cu liter dual zone refrig and shower, etc.
All facts...cheaper also in registration especially in California...cargo trailers are only $10 every 5 yrs where true campers are paid yearly almost always over $150 +/-....
You are spot on and the cargo trailer lets you fabricate it how you want. If you are creative and designey you can make it as simple or elaborate as you would like. I just bought a vintage camper this week. It leaks from everywhere and will get sold next week. Cargo trailer and industrial loft design here we come. Thanks for the vid.
Loved the video. I am on my 2nd Cargo conversion. What I have never been able to figure out is where do you put your fresh water/grey/black tanks? Only thing I can figure out is to raise the floor in a section and put the tanks between the raised floor and original floor. Any video or explanation on how to do this? How much "drop" do you need for a shower/toilet to drain? I have known for years that I'd rather have a small cargo trailer for myself & dog, than a traditional RV. The main reason is that most small RV's do NOT have dual axles. I won't tow any trailer that does not have dual axles. Flat tire on the highway and you are done. Dual axle, you have a chance to pull over and replace a flat. After reading tons of the comments here, let me say, I am female 68 years old. I do have a husband that occasionally gives me a hand. If you don't require "running water" or grey/black tanks, it is very simple to convert. I removed wall/ceiling paneling put up foil backed foam insulation and reattached the paneling on the walls ,then painted them. For the ceiling: foil foam insulation and then aluminum house eave sheets. Did this by myself. Interior was simple. metal storage cabinet for all the "stuff", camp cot in the front for the bed with storage underneath. Simple camp table. Hubby cut hole in top side of trailer for "roll out" air conditioner & also put in a window. I have a storage trunk for other "stuff". 5 gallon water jugs that go under the bed for front tongue weight (they are actually 7 gallon but 5 gallon is all I can carry). A couple of wash basins, hooks for hanging clothes (behind front wall that is covered by a curtain). Also, a porta potty. All the other camping gear I had from tent camping, i.e. propane heater/stove/cooler etc. I am good for weekend camping. I'm working on a design for another conversion with running water and waste tanks (OR, may NOT.)
@@extremebudget Thanks for the response. I did find a couple of videos that showed putting in waste tanks. Although I think I could do it, I am not sure it's worth the hassle for no longer than I use it on weekends. Long trips or more people I take my regular camp trailer Nash 22H. It's not huge but does the trick.
I'm the same. I'm more than likely going to use this portable black tank. I could just wheel into my truck to dump without moving the whole trailer. If there is sewer access then go from toilet directly to sewer and I don't need to use the portable tank. I like that idea. There are different designs and sizes. www.amazon.com/Camco-Portable-Accessories-Durable-Odorless-39004/dp/B07K87FR5C/ref=asc_df_B07K87FR5C/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312089957955&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=18310108171801410830&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9017787&hvtargid=pla-584223612162&psc=1
The company that I work for has 20 of these cargo trailers. Very sturdy , built to last and the options for customizing are virtually limitless. The only down side is that they are heavy and you'll burn more gas hauling them. Happy trails y'all !!! 😃😉😎
My friend went the other way on insulation and stuffed the walls of his house so full of insulation that he had serious humidity and mold problems. It's so hard trying to achieve the best in the absence of accumulated, cultural knowledge. Thank you for this vid. It helps.
My ex and I converted a cargo trailer. It was easy with the straight walls. It never leaked. Was super strong. I’ve remodeled 9 vintage campers. Every single one had water damage.
I have watched 100 of these, because I am about to get started on converting my 7x16 tandem axle, which I bought because I had to transport a riding mower and a bunch of furniture. Now the original mission is done and I want to build one of these to hit the road and actually live in for a long time. I look forward to your progress. I have determined that I want something with a functional shower toilet setup and small kitchen. Something that I can set up eventually to run completly solar, but initially to run off propane and shore power. Mine is a V front so I am settling in on the idea of putting the bathroom and storage areas (for batteries, electrical panels ect..) in the V and making the kitchen setup modular and removable. Like a cabinet with the sink, stove ect on castors that I can position over the axles. The thing I have noticed in all of the others I have watched - nobody really seems to pay attention to weight and weight distribution. I am going to be towing this thing with my tow package equipped V6 Taco (no I am not going to buy a bigger truck...I am working with what I have). You seem to be on a budget like me so hope to see your process. Good job so far!
Thanks for the video. I have lived in a dozen or more of the major brand of commercially built recreational vehicles including Airstream. I am now in a converted Wells Cargo trailer. BTW...I worked in the RV industry for decades and in the better built brands, leaks are almost always from the holes cut at the factory for various vents, windows and access doors. I once had an EMC fiberglass "seamless" class B and it leaked at every one of the 17 holes cut at the factory. You are correct that cargo trailer holds its value well. Especially if you buy a newer well known brand and keep it nice.
I work in a Specialty Vehicle shop or we custom build and or modify Freightliners trailers campers winnebago's and we built our own truck assembly and to be honest with you everything is commercially out there is junk everything classified as a camper or an RV uses substandard inefficient material
After owning two truck campers and two travel trailers I came to the exact same conclusion. It doesn't matter if you buy new or used, a traditional RV is just too prone to leaks, and those leaks can cause mega-bucks of damage real fast. We sold our travel trailer a few months ago and never again! I will not be lured in by how pretty they look when they are new, the maintenance headaches and expense are just too much. But buying an old piece of crap leaking camper can be used for salvaging parts on the cheap. If bought new a few windows, a table, the water tank can add up fast or you can pick up a damaged truck camper for a few hundred bucks and strip out all the useful parts (sell what you don't use).
No kidding Bart, That is why people who understand the engineering only purchase molded fiberglass, monocoque constructed trailers and truck campers. Built like single piece fiberglass boats. They will outlast your children.
Don'tt be afraid to invest money in a quality cargo trailer and converting it as time allows. You are correct...an older RV that is a mess can still be a treasure trove of good parts.
I've noticed people buying old beat campers. They tear them down and build tiny homes. That's probably the only part worthwhile on the whole structure.
What I like about them is the fact that they are already empty. If you are looking for an RV with a complete remodel in mind a lot of the work to do that is done already so you don't have to pay for removing all those outdated fixtures and furnishings, you can just get to work on putting in what you envision you need or want. (Lol As you said.)
This is exactly what I want to do. We could use a cargo trailer for tools while we do some renovations and when we no longer need to store tools in it we can convert it to travel. I told my husband and he is all for it. Need to save up more but we will buy one soon. Really like yours. LA
Built mine in 2003. It's a Cargo Craft 16' tandem. Two beds, 21 CF Fridge, 6' kitchen countertop, sink, porta potti. Open the back doors & drive my UTV in, shut the doors & roll. Open the doors, shove the UTV out & I am ready to dry sleep in about 20 minutes. Have put thousands of miles on it.
Best to shop around before you buy a cargo trailer some have a pretty low quality workmanship . and make sure they can support a roof air if your plan on a roof air, I would prefer a portable A/C unit or wall mount myself. Just do your homework ,Good luck on your search.
All true about the campers, bought a used one many years ago & spent a lot of time & money repairing water damage & leaks. This seems to be a good idea. Also, think about aerodynamic drag. A V nose will tow a lot easier than one that is flat on the front. Good video.
Great video! I knew all this stuff so bought a 7x16 dual axle/electric breaks April 2018. Still working on it but hope to hit the road late May. 4 Windows, Tub, sink/counter, 6.7 cu ft 3-way fridge, fantastic vent and pantry to cook to my heart's content. At least that's the plan. It's half finished.
I just bought a 2019 Northern Lite 10-2 CDSE and I've had so many problems with this damn thing! $45,000! They call this a 4 season yet it gets cold even here in California
I'm a retired welder/fabricator and have the tools and metalworking skills to build my own trailer frame from scratch (recycling wherever I can, such as reusing parts and trailer running gear). Kind of a tiny-home/RV hybrid, but framed tall for lofts with house style roofs yet in lightweight square and rectangular steel tubing instead of the heavy wood timber framing most tiny homes use. With welded steel corner and perimeter framing, the middles of the walls can use lightweight metal studs (the extra wall thickness can accommodate higher R value insulation and more room for wiring and plumbing). Just sort of a dream I'm contemplating. Watching videos like this gives me ideas and inspiration.
My camper is a 2003 Cargo Craft 7'x16'. It has roof top A/C, two beds, Porta Potti, 21 CF Fridge etc. The rear bed folds up & I drive my Honda('s) in the back. Shut the doors & off I go with no worries. It has been Overlanded so many times I can't remember. Been thru ditches, gullies, creek beds with nary a trouble. It has a receiver on the back for towing a second trailer. One thing I strongly suggest, keep your wheel bearings snugged up!! Unless, you want to replace an axle on a road trip.
Don't just any type of foam for insulation because the wrong kind could start to break down and if the foam was made from toxic chemicals, you would end up breathing it. I do plan on using a closed cell spray foam for when I restore my vintage airstream. Also I will replace the flooring with mdo plywood instead of marine plywood. Way more expensive but worth it.
Manufactured units that are made well and last: DRV Suites Oliver Travel Trailers Lance But best of all, buy a car/cargo trailer and build it out yourself, like this man says.
You bring up a few good points. My experience is that no one builds a cargo trailer out with all the important stuff. I have seen exactly one that looked good (Windows, real doors, graphics) the rest look like they would be tough place to spend a weekend, sitting in the dark with no place to wash your hands.
@@extremebudget Yes, if you hav TOYS this could be GREAT- I saw a motorcycle trailer from TEXAS, it had the interior lined in textured steel, Fold down wall beds heavy duty, 70" wall TV, kitchen, 400 watts solar, bathroom and office inside with heat and AC with drop down doors by remote controler!
This is just what I needed to hear. I made my first camper completely DIY from the frame up but now that I’m getting married in the family is growing I needed something bigger I think this is the best way to go as a matter fact I’m gonna trade my handbill camper for a guy who has a 6 x 12 camper
..started looking for a travel trailer a few weeks ago and realized these things are trouble, a cargo trailer would be my first choice. Superior design , i bought one. I am very happy but not as delighted ( and still am) as the day I showed my other half this video. Thank you and God bless.
Some of camp grounds allow only 10 year old or newer campers in, and I've heard they give some people grief who converted the cargo trailers into campers. I guess if one could register the converted cargo trailer as custom camper and title it off that way, maybe that could solve that issue.
Some potential! Especially the strength, stealth, However, the mini van gives you full stealth, excellent gas mileage, rear ac/heat standard, full r twin rear bed, Tv built in or easy to add, dual battery isolation kit, DRIVE thru accessibility, FITS A 2/12 gallon Lugaloo toilet for EASY PEASY USAGE WITHOUT black tank! Im currently driving a Pacifica, and CANNOT believe the ride quality, features, automatic folding full function rear seats and middle folding seats that you could ACTUALLY use as a pick up truck! If there is ONLY one person, this PACIFICA (or any minivan) will be HEAVEN on EARTH! I have been through a Class B (few times) they are NICE but VERY limiting!!!!!!!!!!! Pull travel trailers will not give you stealth...........................SO depending on your needs I HOPE u make the RIGHT one!
For Full Timing, low budget or medium budget, I agree this is the best combination...hightop Van that is full function livable and Travel Trailer or Converted Cargo Trailer for the "luxurious" living space and extra storage. You can drop the trailer and then explore with the van or run errands or do jobs or take short trips where there is not enough parking or clearance for the trailer or long trips where you want to keep gas costs down and get "good" mileage by not towing thousands of pounds along with you that you don't need. You could have a Solar Power System that is transferable between the Trailer and the Van. The Trailer and Van would each have fixed wiring from the roof to the inside Components and components to all the receptacles. A plywood board holding your components (controller, charger, inverter, fuses, shunt ++) could slide in and out of a mount on both the Van and Trailer and you could move your 3 - 100 Ah Lithium batteries from one to the other when you moved your Components and Solar Panels. On long trips without the trailer where there is a lot of driving and not much sitting in one spot you may not even need to transfer the solar panels over to the van...just use a solenoid to charge batteries while van is running down the road. If using a high efficiency compressor refrigerator that component could also be transferable between platforms and maybe your mattress too? Lot's of possibilities with the right planning, imagination and design. If on rollers, you could have quite the modular system. Back up van to rear of Trailer and roll in or out from one to the other the stuff you want to take or leave behind. The other nice thing about the Van/Trailer combo is you can grow into it slowly. Save up and get a good Van first. Build it out over time. Then get the trailer and take your time building it out while you tow it behind you. You'll have space to work, space for tools and materials, a dry environment to work in. When you're not touring, you can work on the Trailer. When you need a break from the Trailer build, you go touring for awhile. Good luck with your build. ps - the next video I looked at after yours is below....it is incredible and inspirational ua-cam.com/video/JHg4ZMNERFE/v-deo.html
Although I agree with you, MOST people don't want to spend all that effort and time. BTW, I bought a Wells Cargo trailer for the Boy Scouts 18 years ago and the side door rotted out from the inside out. Make sure you block rain from getting inside the walls and doors.
yeah, I started researching rv's recently and realized they're all overpriced garbage, with the exception of Lance and airstream, but even then, they're super expensive for what you get. Especially if you need a very custom application. Cargo conversions are 100% the way to go.
We are going to convert a 6' by 12' cargo trailer. The cost of a factory travel trailer with questionable components and build quality put them out of the running. Used ones are a nightmare waiting to happen, I have heard too many horror stories from my customers. I will purchase and install every component myself. From the sink to the solar - it is on my head.
He is telling the truth, folks. We did all our maintenance perfectly and found a piece of the floor “melted” from water leaking from the exterior wiring for lights! We ended up having to gut the floor and finding the bottom joists to the walls were basically mulch. The excuse for insulation was barely enough to make you itch...btw, the wall stringers and roof trusses were out of 1”x1”’s and that floor board was made of pressed wood (2x the weight of plywood or wood and 100% more likely to melt if damp)...we’ve fixed all that, but starting from scratch would have saved us tons of stress. O! And our manufacturer was out of business within a year of our new purchase...
Great Video! A Camper will always be just that, a camper. A flatbed trailer will always be just that, a flatbed trailer (with exceptions). A cargo trailer can double as both a camper and cargo hauler depending on how you need it increasing the likelihood you'll actually use the darned thing instead of it being a lawn ornament.
Nice video. Just a minor correction, they aren’t “campers”, they are RV’s. A $500,000 Class A Motorhome isn’t a camper. A camper fits on the back of a pickup truck. I have owned two pickup campers, two Class A Motorhomes and a 5th Wheel Trailer. I now own a Ford Transit Van and a 6x10 Cargo Trailer. This is the most practical and cost effective way to go. I have lost a little luxury but I gained reliability, safety and convenience. I can take or not take the trailer depending on the trip. Without the trailer I can park in a normal parking place. Not so with a motorhome or travel trailer. Going through a large city with a motorhome or travel trailer can be a white knuckle experience. If I didn’t have the van to sleep in I would convert a larger utility trailer. You can make it fancy, or not. If we take a guest or two we use camp cots in the trailer. Very versatile. I wish I had all the money I wasted on RV’’s. They are a money pit and you end up with a pile of junk.
Well done, good information and presented in easy listening way. Really like the footage along with detailed narrative made many good points. Thumbs up! Have done several of these in n.w.wisc. and they hold up much better than commercial campers unless you go upper bracket & pay. Good job!
Bought Jay series 1406 tandem axle pop up yesterday, hoping it lasts me a bit. I think at the end of it's camping life, it will become another sort of useable trailer.
We've got a 2005 Montana. Pretty happy with it and don't have to go outside to change my mind. Has a arctic package and solar set up. For camping...a gooseneck horse trailer. Aluminum.
Just a quick tip Guys n Gals.... Boat hatches are a lot cheaper than Seitz windows... They are not double 'glazed' but the windows are 10mm thick Polycarbonate !
Howdy, We have a new 6 by 12 cargo trailer sitting in the back driveway. It is waiting for me to finish painting the house, then time to start the conversion. My wife and I can't afford a new travel trailer and did not want the problems with a used one. I will make all of the modifications myself. Most of the components, high quality, are stacked up and waiting. If you have the know how, room and tools - this, in my opinion, is the best way to go. I really like the one-piece roof. Our solar panels will be mounted just above the roof, using aluminum square tubing attached to the trailer sides.
I live in Central Florida, a mecca of RV waste....can there possibly be a greater WASTE of $$$? Maybe the old time shares...never saw so many SUCKERS. This is a really good reality check for having an RV in the first place and if you do believe you could justify one...a cargo conversion makes a HUGE argument in favor of reason/logic. Thank you.
We had a 19 1/2 ft Taurus by Terry that we bought used in the mid 70s. It was used hard for 20 years with none of the problems you suggest. Sell your great idea by building it up, not by tearing others down.
I'll be getting a extra-tall cargo trailer sometime in the near future, and will eventually convert it into a "toy hauler" / camper. I probably won't be making it self contained with all the usual camper stuff, but I will have some place to go at night while out four-wheeling with the side-by-side. What concerns me mostly is the emergency exit, or lack thereof. Most if not all campers now days must have this. I'm also concerned about the door latches and locks, so a typical RV door latch is necessary. If you have the swinging bar type door latch, you have to have some way of locking it open so you don't get trapped and locked in.I know, worrying about these tings is the way I am.....I'm old and this shit happens.Great video, Thumbs up!
Yeah, I ordered a cargo trailer last week and spec'd the RV door with the RV latch. I'm also having them install the swing latch too since I don't like the security of just those RV latches. Going to figure a way to keep the swing latch secured open with a lock while we're inside.
I have been thinking about converting a cargo trailer into an RV. After looking at and thoroughly examining new and used RVs, they were all junk. Very poorly constructed junk. So I started looking around for better option and was almost settled on a cargo trailer. Then I watched your video. Guess I am buying a cargo trailer to convert/remodel into an RV. Lol. Thank you!
Even Airstream trailers and their counterparts are not worth what people pay for them. It's true that the aluminum shell is strong but it's attached to a plywood floor with basic lag screws and sheet metal so when they do leak the plywood rots and the shell comes right off from the rest. I attempted a restoration of one and found this out the hard way.
Ya I've been on this a while and it makes the most sense. Think about 2weeks of boondocking or 2week stints in State Parks. 55g water barrel (me and 2dogs at 1g each a day) at the front of a 12*6' V nose so the weight sits at the tongue. Easy to have the suspension, tongue, and tires built up as well. Don't forget the pin lock so it' can't be stolen, maybe hub lock as well. Also allows you to set camp and then go run around- holding your place. I did 6months and 8k miles in an 88 Dodge Xplorer and it was so filled with crap and materials I'd never (and didn't) use. What a waste of space and weight. For me, a V8 SUV and a VNose 6*12- and build as you go. Do the insulation, floors, windows, walls, vents, external wiring in conduits, solar, feed for water fill and propane- cassette toilet (that you'll most likely never use, but need to have for some Fed. boondocking), Murphy bed. But a soon as you're insulated and roughed in (Priority) a small wood burning stove- I have to recommend SilverFire- with oven and secondary burn. Check them out. Thanks for the vid. Def. the way to go. *A.
Great video. The biggest problem with buying a new camper is our fellow consumers, we'll buy crap, so that is what is on the market. That factory footage where the workers are running around and shoddily putting together the campers is from Jayco, good luck if you have one. I have a couple of friends that have put together camper cargo trailers and they love them, they have the features they want, and nothing they don't. Plus, they know how things were put together making pairs easier and faster. But, if you spend just a little more, there are some utility trailer makers out there that offer conversion packages.
Yup, just got a new trailer because of the large slide out. But your correct regarding quilty, it's construction is junk. But I love the size and slide out.... I store it in doors hopping it will last a bit longer... I will build my own, when I have the time. Love to travel in retirement years and now I truly know what I want in a trailer :). Good share and ideas thanks
I thought about buying a cargo trailer and converting. Researching the idea on the internet gave me inspiration and so I bought a 6x12 v nose. Newly built for $2000
Air streams are not leak free! My friend got a leak in his around one of the cut outs. FYI The aluminum construction skins are very reliable from water penetration.
This is exactly what I did with the cargo trailer. bunkbeds solar panels Flatscreen TV .It has just about everything .but nobody would know you’re camping in it😏
I really likliked your video. I'm currently doing research on DIY camp trailers. I plan on building my own in the near future. You have really useful information about construction, installation, configuration. I'm looking forward to having my own unique cargo/ camp trailer. Thanks again for the great information. GF1 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😎
If and when i do this it will be a module that slides out when i need it for my other needs. It really only needs to be a false floor, with everything mounted on it.
I was about to add that they still make airstreams, but then you already said it ur self lol. I just bought my first home in the city that theybarw made, Jackson center Ohio, iv already put in an application to work there haha
He's correct. Crappy build. I saw a big new camper roll over without hitting anything. Still, it burst like a dropped watermelon. ... and right on every other point as well.🙂 I would recommend spray in foam where you can. Spendy, but very efficient.
heads up, must put one more layer over the metal ribs, will drip in winter creating sweat/condensation mold too, i spray foam ceiling 586.00 7 x 16 , ua-cam.com/video/POJlZk_t3gY/v-deo.html built truss extension with pipe strap galvanized , hanging down from each ceiling rib, spent winter in it -40 f, sweat from self tap screws only not any on the wall since had one more inch plus thermal emergency blanket as 99 % radiant heat reflector to inside .. . this video is only ceiling more to come ,,,,,,,, ,,, many look pretty but are not year round or even fall or spring just summer campers.. . filling in between only big mistake ... if u did that and went out on extreme cold u know it :)
Luv the rv toilet at 3:52😂😁what you are saying about trailers is very true. I bought a good one from Taylor Coach, they are all metal also and marine grade plywood and furniture grade pine. Ultra light on a heavy duty frame and it also has industrial caulking that lasts from 7-10yrs!, if I had the time and knowhow And was younger,lol, I would try what ur doing!
Even Airstream is mostly an expensive style statement. They definitely still have seams, and especially rivet holes, and they don't have much room for insulation so all that aluminum just transmits the heat or cold right past whatever insulation they are using. A guy on the Airstream Owners' forum tried to use one of the older "good ones" to overwinter in Alaska. He lost use of the plumbing somewhere in the 20's (F), the door started freezing shut, and after a lengthy period in the teens he was getting frost on the interior walls at the points where rivets were on the outside. The whole industry is a joke except for the extreme customizers that actually engineer their products, mostly on the high end of the price ranges (Marathon / Prevost in motorhomes, SpaceCraft in 5th wheels / towables, and Nord Euro Mobile in the industrial / cargo trailers).
You need to watch quality on cargo trailers also, I recently went shopping for one and at one lot tried to open the door on a new trailer, the damn door was rusted shut because the sealing was so bad, I got it open but needless to say I did not buy from that company.
I think insurance is a large caveat to this idea depending on the extent of your conversion. If you're going to do a simple conversion and not alter the trailer a lot I think ensuring it as a cargo trailer might be okay. If you're going to do a 100% RV conversion full ac/dc electric plumbing and gas Insurance becomes much more problematic.
Airstreams are the better of all the builds, except for the Freightliner and coach models, but they still can spring the frame VERY easily. Once you spring the frame with a slight impact, your sunk. You have to take the outer panels off to resquare the body frame, and without the jig, you won't be able to weld it well enough to ensure it's strength again.
In general there is no reason to think a camper manufacturer requires their employees to move faster than an enclosed trailer manufacturer. Showing a single factory moving quickly and another moving slowly is not proof of industry standards. Having said that, I am still looking and your video is definitely interesting.
I love your project and your enthusiasm. I won't do it. A used class C motorhome is cheaper in my area than a good empty cargo trailer of any decent size. Even doing it myself and pretending my time is only worth a couple bucks an hour I would end up with WAY less of a home for tons more money than just buying an RV. And I don't need a tow rig, which adds thousands to your final budget. But hey, I completely understand the satisfaction of a unique home project successfully done!
Its true that some campers people just give away for very cheap. even it is crappy it is worth it for the price. someone gave me a camper - it was crappy, but worth it because it was free. good point.
Thanks for the comparisons. I believed that this would be a great option and you have confirmed that view, and since I will be living in my build I want it to be the best it can be.
I don’t disagree with your points, but I think about resale. Who wants my converted cargo trailer? I’m really thinking more about a horse trailer. Solid, built to hold up to a horse, and you can buy one with living quarters. The horse portion can be used for toys or a man cave!
![АЛАУДИНОВ у Скабеевой: эти их ВСУ нас НЕ ДОГОНЯТ 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/an0anqU4WGQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Yes, this is the way to go. I am retired and converted a cargo trailer and pull it with my pickup truck. I am a fulltime camper, been on the road for 6 yrs. now. I run around the southwest with plenty of BLM land and forest service roads for boondocking. I am a free range camper.
I would add that finding a HORSE trailer can be really good, too. They are built even stronger, and usually have insulation. They also have solid doors and windows already installed. Some of them have a "tack room" in the front, which can have built-in cabinets and desks, and some have bunks. On the local craisglist, I was too late to get one that had all those features with dual axles, built-in spare tire, and extensive tack room. It was in excellent shape - and they sold it for $2700.
good idea. I saw a long one and the guy was asking for $800. It was old, but tough.
Thank you for this video! I was going to buy a camper and I have looked at a few. No way am I going to pay those big bucks for a slap together piece of junk. So, I decided to build one. I stumbled onto your video and boy am I glad I did! This IS the answer. Thank you for saving me from thinking I should build the shell. The cargo trailer is a perfect solution.
You bet. thank you.
one good thing about a cargo trailer, if your "builder inept" like I am, you can buy wood/chipwood/ heavy duty plastic tables from garage sales/and bolt them to your cargo trailer instead of trying to/hiring someone to build them. Depending on your weight limit and what is going to be housed on them, you can outfit your trailer for $100. I wanted to save up for small camper but they were running for $20k+ and wanted $2-5k down payment. I'm on a fix income of $900 and I don't want to be in debt for an rv for the next 10 years. There's a place about 300 miles from me that'll install any type of door and windows (just 2) for $500, which I know if a good deal. Also, if you need to upgrade/downgrade, the value of these pretty good for a resale.There's no hidden issues with them as with RVs. You can look in, walk around and see there's no water spots, "soft" areas or crappy installation (or if there is, its simple and cheap to replace)
Linux Goddess where is the place that does the door install?
This video has changed my plans of going full time RVing ! This is the only way to go. THANKS !
:)
ua-cam.com/video/CJtmOPdWrlE/v-deo.html
Most of them are trailers. Consider flipping a van or a box truck too.
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You said it! Makes total sense.
Thank you. The act of building the camper is itself recreational, exercising the body and mind. Even if you end up never using it, building a camper is the same as camping.
Very good points, and I have always loved airstream....
Originally, I wanted to live in a warehouse, so I could have a studio and live in the same place. And you can just lock it up, steel bars across doors when you're not there, & nobody knows the difference. Still haven't given up on it, just want a freestanding out alone building now. Privacy/security. But in interim, a cargo trailet would be good! Just me and my 4legged child, & an F150Crew. Hard part, giving up 1.5 acres fenced in a small town of 22k.
But thanks for the wonderfully great ideas. Muchly appreciated! Kudos!👍😎🙏🇺🇸
This is completely spot on! We bought a used 24ft RV years ago and fought with leaks constantly. Just last year, we converted our 10 x 6 box trailer into a camper/box trailer and love it so much! I will never purchase anything else and because our conversion was so well made, I feel like it will last a lifetime. Nice video! I subscribed and gave it a like.😊
PERFECT. I did the same research and came to the same conclusion. I started with a 8.5 x 18 Continental Cargo trailer. I wanted a drop door to haul my dune buggy. I wanted to use it as a camper, at the same time. I wanted solar, batteries and hot and cold water. I built it for the bed to lower to 15 inches off the floor, raise to the ceiling to get the buggy in. I can travel with it up. I can drop it half way down and sleep above the buggy. The drop leaf table goes against the wall or drops for use. 75 cu liter dual zone refrig and shower, etc.
sounds awesome
TWO thumbs up and then some! ! !
Excellent. I've been trying to convince my wife why this is the best way to go for a trailer. I'm hoping she'll listen to you.
All facts...cheaper also in registration especially in California...cargo trailers are only $10 every 5 yrs where true campers are paid yearly almost always over $150 +/-....
You are spot on and the cargo trailer lets you fabricate it how you want. If you are creative and designey you can make it as simple or elaborate as you would like. I just bought a vintage camper this week. It leaks from everywhere and will get sold next week. Cargo trailer and industrial loft design here we come. Thanks for the vid.
Loved the video. I am on my 2nd Cargo conversion. What I have never been able to figure out is where do you put your fresh water/grey/black tanks? Only thing I can figure out is to raise the floor in a section and put the tanks between the raised floor and original floor. Any video or explanation on how to do this? How much "drop" do you need for a shower/toilet to drain? I have known for years that I'd rather have a small cargo trailer for myself & dog, than a traditional RV. The main reason is that most small RV's do NOT have dual axles. I won't tow any trailer that does not have dual axles. Flat tire on the highway and you are done. Dual axle, you have a chance to pull over and replace a flat. After reading tons of the comments here, let me say, I am female 68 years old. I do have a husband that occasionally gives me a hand. If you don't require "running water" or grey/black tanks, it is very simple to convert. I removed wall/ceiling paneling put up foil backed foam insulation and reattached the paneling on the walls ,then painted them. For the ceiling: foil foam insulation and then aluminum house eave sheets. Did this by myself. Interior was simple. metal storage cabinet for all the "stuff", camp cot in the front for the bed with storage underneath. Simple camp table. Hubby cut hole in top side of trailer for "roll out" air conditioner & also put in a window. I have a storage trunk for other "stuff". 5 gallon water jugs that go under the bed for front tongue weight (they are actually 7 gallon but 5 gallon is all I can carry). A couple of wash basins, hooks for hanging clothes (behind front wall that is covered by a curtain). Also, a porta potty. All the other camping gear I had from tent camping, i.e. propane heater/stove/cooler etc. I am good for weekend camping. I'm working on a design for another conversion with running water and waste tanks (OR, may NOT.)
I haven't done that since my trailer has a frame from an old camper. I think you could find a camper and measure it to get an idea.
@@extremebudget Thanks for the response. I did find a couple of videos that showed putting in waste tanks. Although I think I could do it, I am not sure it's worth the hassle for no longer than I use it on weekends. Long trips or more people I take my regular camp trailer Nash 22H. It's not huge but does the trick.
I'm the same. I'm more than likely going to use this portable black tank. I could just wheel into my truck to dump without moving the whole trailer. If there is sewer access then go from toilet directly to sewer and I don't need to use the portable tank. I like that idea. There are different designs and sizes. www.amazon.com/Camco-Portable-Accessories-Durable-Odorless-39004/dp/B07K87FR5C/ref=asc_df_B07K87FR5C/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312089957955&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=18310108171801410830&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9017787&hvtargid=pla-584223612162&psc=1
The company that I work for has 20 of these cargo trailers. Very sturdy , built to last and the options for customizing are virtually limitless.
The only down side is that they are heavy and you'll burn more gas hauling them.
Happy trails y'all !!! 😃😉😎
I have heard RV/camper construction described as "sticks and staples", and it really is.
My friend went the other way on insulation and stuffed the walls of his house so full of insulation that he had serious humidity and mold problems. It's so hard trying to achieve the best in the absence of accumulated, cultural knowledge. Thank you for this vid. It helps.
Cargo van and cargo trailer conversions are the way to go...Indiana made RVs are a rolling nightmare!
only truly smart people get this far into research. cargo trailer is the cheapest best option
My ex and I converted a cargo trailer. It was easy with the straight walls. It never leaked. Was super strong. I’ve remodeled 9 vintage campers. Every single one had water damage.
wow.
I have watched 100 of these, because I am about to get started on converting my 7x16 tandem axle, which I bought because I had to transport a riding mower and a bunch of furniture.
Now the original mission is done and I want to build one of these to hit the road and actually live in for a long time.
I look forward to your progress. I have determined that I want something with a functional shower toilet setup and small kitchen. Something that I can set up eventually to run completly solar, but initially to run off propane and shore power.
Mine is a V front so I am settling in on the idea of putting the bathroom and storage areas (for batteries, electrical panels ect..) in the V and making the kitchen setup modular and removable. Like a cabinet with the sink, stove ect on castors that I can position over the axles.
The thing I have noticed in all of the others I have watched - nobody really seems to pay attention to weight and weight distribution.
I am going to be towing this thing with my tow package equipped V6 Taco (no I am not going to buy a bigger truck...I am working with what I have).
You seem to be on a budget like me so hope to see your process.
Good job so far!
Best of luck! :)
Thanks for the video. I have lived in a dozen or more of the major brand of commercially built recreational vehicles including Airstream. I am now in a converted Wells Cargo trailer. BTW...I worked in the RV industry for decades and in the better built brands, leaks are almost always from the holes cut at the factory for various vents, windows and access doors. I once had an EMC fiberglass "seamless" class B and it leaked at every one of the 17 holes cut at the factory.
You are correct that cargo trailer holds its value well. Especially if you buy a newer well known brand and keep it nice.
It is good to know I wasn't the only one experiencing this :)
I work in a Specialty Vehicle shop or we custom build and or modify Freightliners trailers campers winnebago's and we built our own truck assembly and to be honest with you everything is commercially out there is junk everything classified as a camper or an RV uses substandard inefficient material
After owning two truck campers and two travel trailers I came to the exact same conclusion. It doesn't matter if you buy new or used, a traditional RV is just too prone to leaks, and those leaks can cause mega-bucks of damage real fast. We sold our travel trailer a few months ago and never again! I will not be lured in by how pretty they look when they are new, the maintenance headaches and expense are just too much.
But buying an old piece of crap leaking camper can be used for salvaging parts on the cheap. If bought new a few windows, a table, the water tank can add up fast or you can pick up a damaged truck camper for a few hundred bucks and strip out all the useful parts (sell what you don't use).
Good idea. I thought of doing that for my cargo trailer. Just buying a crappy camper and transferring the useful parts to my cargo.
No kidding Bart, That is why people who understand the engineering only purchase molded fiberglass, monocoque constructed trailers and truck campers. Built like single piece fiberglass boats. They will outlast your children.
Don'tt be afraid to invest money in a quality cargo trailer and converting it as time allows. You are correct...an older RV that is a mess can still be a treasure trove of good parts.
I've noticed people buying old beat campers. They tear them down and build tiny homes. That's probably the only part worthwhile on the whole structure.
What I like about them is the fact that they are already empty. If you are looking for an RV with a complete remodel in mind a lot of the work to do that is done already so you don't have to pay for removing all those outdated fixtures and furnishings, you can just get to work on putting in what you envision you need or want. (Lol As you said.)
This is exactly what I want to do. We could use a cargo trailer for tools while we do some renovations and when we no longer need to store tools in it we can convert it to travel. I told my husband and he is all for it. Need to save up more but we will buy one soon. Really like yours. LA
Built mine in 2003. It's a Cargo Craft 16' tandem. Two beds, 21 CF Fridge, 6' kitchen countertop, sink, porta potti. Open the back doors & drive my UTV in, shut the doors & roll. Open the doors, shove the UTV out & I am ready to dry sleep in about 20 minutes. Have put thousands of miles on it.
Best to shop around before you buy a cargo trailer some have a pretty low quality workmanship . and make sure they can support a roof air if your plan on a roof air, I would prefer a portable A/C unit or wall mount myself. Just do your homework ,Good luck on your search.
I have a 7x12 cargo i want to build a tiny house log camper out of, this video just made it a lot easier for me! Thanks
All true about the campers, bought a used one many years ago & spent a lot of time & money repairing water damage & leaks. This seems to be a good idea. Also, think about aerodynamic drag. A V nose will tow a lot easier than one that is flat on the front. Good video.
Great video! I knew all this stuff so bought a 7x16 dual axle/electric breaks April 2018. Still working on it but hope to hit the road late May. 4 Windows, Tub, sink/counter, 6.7 cu ft 3-way fridge, fantastic vent and pantry to cook to my heart's content. At least that's the plan. It's half finished.
Awesome. give me an update. Promote your channel here if you want. I think that is awesome.
This one might give you some ideas, ua-cam.com/video/Ro4HYLXoWqM/v-deo.html
I just bought a 2019 Northern Lite 10-2 CDSE and I've had so many problems with this damn thing! $45,000!
They call this a 4 season yet it gets cold even here in California
I'm a retired welder/fabricator and have the tools and metalworking skills to build my own trailer frame from scratch (recycling wherever I can, such as reusing parts and trailer running gear). Kind of a tiny-home/RV hybrid, but framed tall for lofts with house style roofs yet in lightweight square and rectangular steel tubing instead of the heavy wood timber framing most tiny homes use. With welded steel corner and perimeter framing, the middles of the walls can use lightweight metal studs (the extra wall thickness can accommodate higher R value insulation and more room for wiring and plumbing). Just sort of a dream I'm contemplating.
Watching videos like this gives me ideas and inspiration.
awesome! those skill come in handy. you should record your progress. I'd like to see it
My camper is a 2003 Cargo Craft 7'x16'. It has roof top A/C, two beds, Porta Potti, 21 CF Fridge etc. The rear bed folds up & I drive my Honda('s) in the back. Shut the doors & off I go with no worries. It has been Overlanded so many times I can't remember. Been thru ditches, gullies, creek beds with nary a trouble. It has a receiver on the back for towing a second trailer. One thing I strongly suggest, keep your wheel bearings snugged up!! Unless, you want to replace an axle on a road trip.
Don't just any type of foam for insulation because the wrong kind could start to break down and if the foam was made from toxic chemicals, you would end up breathing it. I do plan on using a closed cell spray foam for when I restore my vintage airstream. Also I will replace the flooring with mdo plywood instead of marine plywood. Way more expensive but worth it.
Manufactured units that are made well and last:
DRV Suites
Oliver Travel Trailers
Lance
But best of all, buy a car/cargo trailer and build it out yourself, like this man says.
You bring up a few good points. My experience is that no one builds a cargo trailer out with all the important stuff. I have seen exactly one that looked good (Windows, real doors, graphics) the rest look like they would be tough place to spend a weekend, sitting in the dark with no place to wash your hands.
Should spend your weekend outside and not in the trailer, Isn't that most of the point?
Just finished mine. 300 watts solar, solar water heater w/ elec. back up and it's great. And still get the toys in. Your imagination is the limit.
awesome. you should make a video and post it :)
POST IT FOr ALL to See ! ! !
@@extremebudget Yes, if you hav TOYS this could be GREAT- I saw a motorcycle trailer from TEXAS, it had the interior lined in textured steel, Fold down wall beds heavy duty, 70" wall TV, kitchen, 400 watts solar, bathroom and office inside with heat and AC with drop down doors by remote controler!
Cost?
This is just what I needed to hear. I made my first camper completely DIY from the frame up but now that I’m getting married in the family is growing I needed something bigger I think this is the best way to go as a matter fact I’m gonna trade my handbill camper for a guy who has a 6 x 12 camper
..started looking for a travel trailer a few weeks ago and realized these things are trouble, a cargo trailer would be my first choice. Superior design , i bought one. I am very happy but not as delighted ( and still am) as the day I showed my other half this video. Thank you and God bless.
Some of camp grounds allow only 10 year old or newer campers in, and I've heard they give some people grief who converted the cargo trailers into campers. I guess if one could register the converted cargo trailer as custom camper and title it off that way, maybe that could solve that issue.
That's my retirement home; a converted cargo trailer pulled by a high-top van.
Some potential! Especially the strength, stealth, However, the mini van gives you full stealth, excellent gas mileage, rear ac/heat standard, full r twin rear bed, Tv built in or easy to add, dual battery isolation kit, DRIVE thru accessibility, FITS A 2/12 gallon Lugaloo toilet for EASY PEASY USAGE WITHOUT black tank!
Im currently driving a Pacifica, and CANNOT believe the ride quality, features, automatic folding full function rear seats and middle folding seats that you could ACTUALLY use as a pick up truck!
If there is ONLY one person, this PACIFICA (or any minivan) will be HEAVEN on EARTH! I have been through a Class B (few times) they are NICE but VERY limiting!!!!!!!!!!! Pull travel trailers will not give you stealth...........................SO depending on your needs I HOPE u make the RIGHT one!
Michael Smith a 5 gallon bucket with a trash bag is cheaper and no nasty crap to deal with.
Better make sure you over engineer the drive train in the van for the excess weight being put into the trailer.
Mine will be towed by an ambulance....
For Full Timing, low budget or medium budget, I agree this is the best combination...hightop Van that is full function livable and Travel Trailer or Converted Cargo Trailer for the "luxurious" living space and extra storage. You can drop the trailer and then explore with the van or run errands or do jobs or take short trips where there is not enough parking or clearance for the trailer or long trips where you want to keep gas costs down and get "good" mileage by not towing thousands of pounds along with you that you don't need.
You could have a Solar Power System that is transferable between the Trailer and the Van. The Trailer and Van would each have fixed wiring from the roof to the inside Components and components to all the receptacles. A plywood board holding your components (controller, charger, inverter, fuses, shunt ++) could slide in and out of a mount on both the Van and Trailer and you could move your 3 - 100 Ah Lithium batteries from one to the other when you moved your Components and Solar Panels. On long trips without the trailer where there is a lot of driving and not much sitting in one spot you may not even need to transfer the solar panels over to the van...just use a solenoid to charge batteries while van is running down the road.
If using a high efficiency compressor refrigerator that component could also be transferable between platforms and maybe your mattress too? Lot's of possibilities with the right planning, imagination and design. If on rollers, you could have quite the modular system. Back up van to rear of Trailer and roll in or out from one to the other the stuff you want to take or leave behind.
The other nice thing about the Van/Trailer combo is you can grow into it slowly. Save up and get a good Van first. Build it out over time. Then get the trailer and take your time building it out while you tow it behind you. You'll have space to work, space for tools and materials, a dry environment to work in. When you're not touring, you can work on the Trailer. When you need a break from the Trailer build, you go touring for awhile. Good luck with your build.
ps - the next video I looked at after yours is below....it is incredible and inspirational
ua-cam.com/video/JHg4ZMNERFE/v-deo.html
Although I agree with you, MOST people don't want to spend all that effort and time. BTW, I bought a Wells Cargo trailer for the Boy Scouts 18 years ago and the side door rotted out from the inside out. Make sure you block rain from getting inside the walls and doors.
yeah, I started researching rv's recently and realized they're all overpriced garbage, with the exception of Lance and airstream, but even then, they're super expensive for what you get. Especially if you need a very custom application. Cargo conversions are 100% the way to go.
Many people are getting into the full time RV living theses days. Having an RVIA certification on the build will work in your favor.
We are going to convert a 6' by 12' cargo trailer. The cost of a factory travel trailer with questionable components and build quality put them out of the running. Used ones are a nightmare waiting to happen, I have heard too many horror stories from my customers. I will purchase and install every component myself. From the sink to the solar - it is on my head.
He is telling the truth, folks. We did all our maintenance perfectly and found a piece of the floor “melted” from water leaking from the exterior wiring for lights! We ended up having to gut the floor and finding the bottom joists to the walls were basically mulch. The excuse for insulation was barely enough to make you itch...btw, the wall stringers and roof trusses were out of 1”x1”’s and that floor board was made of pressed wood (2x the weight of plywood or wood and 100% more likely to melt if damp)...we’ve fixed all that, but starting from scratch would have saved us tons of stress. O! And our manufacturer was out of business within a year of our new purchase...
Great Video! A Camper will always be just that, a camper. A flatbed trailer will always be just that, a flatbed trailer (with exceptions). A cargo trailer can double as both a camper and cargo hauler depending on how you need it increasing the likelihood you'll actually use the darned thing instead of it being a lawn ornament.
That's really about the speed those guy's work at building RV's..
Nice video. Just a minor correction, they aren’t “campers”, they are RV’s. A $500,000 Class A Motorhome isn’t a camper. A camper fits on the back of a pickup truck. I have owned two pickup campers, two Class A Motorhomes and a 5th Wheel Trailer. I now own a Ford Transit Van and a 6x10 Cargo Trailer. This is the most practical and cost effective way to go. I have lost a little luxury but I gained reliability, safety and convenience. I can take or not take the trailer depending on the trip. Without the trailer I can park in a normal parking place. Not so with a motorhome or travel trailer. Going through a large city with a motorhome or travel trailer can be a white knuckle experience. If I didn’t have the van to sleep in I would convert a larger utility trailer. You can make it fancy, or not. If we take a guest or two we use camp cots in the trailer. Very versatile. I wish I had all the money I wasted on RV’’s. They are a money pit and you end up with a pile of junk.
;)
Well done, good information and presented in easy listening way. Really like the footage along with detailed narrative made many good points. Thumbs up!
Have done several of these in n.w.wisc. and they hold up much
better than commercial campers unless you go upper bracket & pay.
Good job!
Thanks for sharing your life and thoughts with us here on UA-cam.
You're welcome :)
I agree buy a cargo trailer and convert it. I had that Jay Flyght trailer they were building and they are garbage. NEVER BUY JAYCO!!!!
Bought Jay series 1406 tandem axle pop up yesterday, hoping it lasts me a bit.
I think at the end of it's camping life, it will become another sort of useable trailer.
We've got a 2005 Montana. Pretty happy with it and don't have to go outside to change my mind. Has a arctic package and solar set up. For camping...a gooseneck horse trailer. Aluminum.
My cargo trailer which I paid about $2,300 for it...started leaking within 2 years. But I still plan on converting it.
This is really informative and accurately explains why a cargo trailer is the only way to go.
Henry’s 587 + Hardener from TCP Global = LineX/Rhino Liner
awesome! thank you
Just a quick tip Guys n Gals.... Boat hatches are a lot cheaper than Seitz windows...
They are not double 'glazed' but the windows are 10mm thick Polycarbonate !
Howdy, We have a new 6 by 12 cargo trailer sitting in the back driveway. It is waiting for me to finish painting the house, then time to start the conversion. My wife and I can't afford a new travel trailer and did not want the problems with a used one. I will make all of the modifications myself. Most of the components, high quality, are stacked up and waiting. If you have the know how, room and tools - this, in my opinion, is the best way to go. I really like the one-piece roof. Our solar panels will be mounted just above the roof, using aluminum square tubing attached to the trailer sides.
Very educational. I think I may go this route instead of buying a camper trailer
True. In defence of the workers. They are going so fast because they have done the exact same thing thousands of times.
Having worked for a mobile home manufacture I can tell you the difference is they don't stop and fix mistakes they just keep going.
I live in Central Florida, a mecca of RV waste....can there possibly be a greater WASTE of $$$? Maybe the old time shares...never saw so many SUCKERS. This is a really good reality check for having an RV in the first place and if you do believe you could justify one...a cargo conversion makes a HUGE argument in favor of reason/logic. Thank you.
We had a 19 1/2 ft Taurus by Terry that we bought used in the mid 70s. It was used hard for 20 years with none of the problems you suggest. Sell your great idea by building it up, not by tearing others down.
I'll be getting a extra-tall cargo trailer sometime in the near future, and will eventually convert it into a "toy hauler" / camper. I probably won't be making it self contained with all the usual camper stuff, but I will have some place to go at night while out four-wheeling with the side-by-side. What concerns me mostly is the emergency exit, or lack thereof. Most if not all campers now days must have this. I'm also concerned about the door latches and locks, so a typical RV door latch is necessary. If you have the swinging bar type door latch, you have to have some way of locking it open so you don't get trapped and locked in.I know, worrying about these tings is the way I am.....I'm old and this shit happens.Great video, Thumbs up!
Yeah, I ordered a cargo trailer last week and spec'd the RV door with the RV latch. I'm also having them install the swing latch too since I don't like the security of just those RV latches. Going to figure a way to keep the swing latch secured open with a lock while we're inside.
I have been thinking about converting a cargo trailer into an RV. After looking at and thoroughly examining new and used RVs, they were all junk. Very poorly constructed junk. So I started looking around for better option and was almost settled on a cargo trailer. Then I watched your video. Guess I am buying a cargo trailer to convert/remodel into an RV. Lol. Thank you!
Even Airstream trailers and their counterparts are not worth what people pay for them.
It's true that the aluminum shell is strong but it's attached to a plywood floor with basic lag screws and sheet metal so when they do leak the plywood rots and the shell comes right off from the rest.
I attempted a restoration of one and found this out the hard way.
Ya I've been on this a while and it makes the most sense. Think about 2weeks of boondocking or 2week stints in State Parks. 55g water barrel (me and 2dogs at 1g each a day) at the front of a 12*6' V nose so the weight sits at the tongue. Easy to have the suspension, tongue, and tires built up as well. Don't forget the pin lock so it' can't be stolen, maybe hub lock as well. Also allows you to set camp and then go run around- holding your place. I did 6months and 8k miles in an 88 Dodge Xplorer and it was so filled with crap and materials I'd never (and didn't) use. What a waste of space and weight. For me, a V8 SUV and a VNose 6*12- and build as you go. Do the insulation, floors, windows, walls, vents, external wiring in conduits, solar, feed for water fill and propane- cassette toilet (that you'll most likely never use, but need to have for some Fed. boondocking), Murphy bed. But a soon as you're insulated and roughed in (Priority) a small wood burning stove- I have to recommend SilverFire- with oven and secondary burn. Check them out. Thanks for the vid. Def. the way to go. *A.
Great video. The biggest problem with buying a new camper is our fellow consumers, we'll buy crap, so that is what is on the market. That factory footage where the workers are running around and shoddily putting together the campers is from Jayco, good luck if you have one. I have a couple of friends that have put together camper cargo trailers and they love them, they have the features they want, and nothing they don't. Plus, they know how things were put together making pairs easier and faster. But, if you spend just a little more, there are some utility trailer makers out there that offer conversion packages.
oh nice. I think the cargo people are starting to catch on
After seeing many conversions, this one has me convinced, thank you -:)
Reflectix is good for windows, not so much for walls. It’s a radiant barrier, not thermo barrier. But a foam board with foil on the inside is good.
Yup, just got a new trailer because of the large slide out. But your correct regarding quilty, it's construction is junk. But I love the size and slide out.... I store it in doors hopping it will last a bit longer...
I will build my own, when I have the time. Love to travel in retirement years and now I truly know what I want in a trailer :).
Good share and ideas thanks
Thank you for your Video and for doing the research, I appreciate all your hard work
much appreciated :)
I thought about buying a cargo trailer and converting. Researching the idea on the internet gave me inspiration and so I bought a 6x12 v nose. Newly built for $2000
Where did you buy this and what brand?
@@JNCHRH plain 'ol trailers, I had to drive from NC to GA to pick it up, total was about $1900
@@kennethterrell1167 Thanks very much! :)
Just bought a 2020 cargo trailer and excited to get home and start converting
Air streams are not leak free! My friend got a leak in his around one of the cut outs. FYI The aluminum construction skins are very reliable from water penetration.
ok good to know. thank you
Airstream has always made trailers. They never stopped.
Thomas Sirman they were bought out in the 80s
A lot of great points. I’m really glad I watched this video. Thanks for taking the time to put all this info together. Cargo conversion is way to go.
This is exactly what I did with the cargo trailer. bunkbeds solar panels Flatscreen TV .It has just about everything .but nobody would know you’re camping in it😏
I really likliked your video. I'm currently doing research on DIY camp trailers. I plan on building my own in the near future. You have really useful information about construction, installation, configuration. I'm looking forward to having my own unique cargo/ camp trailer. Thanks again for the great information. GF1 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😁😎
If and when i do this it will be a module that slides out when i need it for my other needs. It really only needs to be a false floor, with everything mounted on it.
My sentiments exactly. Just put 4 corner jacks on it, jack it up, take it off - or vice-versa.
LOL I can see it now "I am storing my tiny house in my garage while I help someone move".
Harry Krumpacker and castors!!! You will need castors to pull this off and at least 4 lock-in bolts for during transit! Cool idea & be safe!
That sounds very complicated. They're only like 4-10k dollars, just buy another trailer lol.
I was about to add that they still make airstreams, but then you already said it ur self lol. I just bought my first home in the city that theybarw made, Jackson center Ohio, iv already put in an application to work there haha
God bless. hopefully it will go well for you
He's correct. Crappy build. I saw a big new camper roll over without hitting anything. Still, it burst like a dropped watermelon.
... and right on every other point as well.🙂
I would recommend spray in foam where you can. Spendy, but very efficient.
heads up, must put one more layer over the metal ribs, will drip in winter creating sweat/condensation mold too, i spray foam ceiling 586.00 7 x 16 , ua-cam.com/video/POJlZk_t3gY/v-deo.html
built truss extension with pipe strap galvanized , hanging down from each ceiling rib,
spent winter in it -40 f, sweat from self tap screws only not any on the wall since had one more inch plus thermal emergency blanket as 99 % radiant heat reflector to inside ..
. this video is only ceiling more to come ,,,,,,,,
,,, many look pretty but are not year round or even fall or spring just summer campers..
. filling in between only big mistake ... if u did that and went out on extreme cold u know it :)
Airstream never stopped making trailers.
Those are the vaunted Amish working too fast to make Jayco junko units. The Indiana RV industry uses them to work too fast on several brands.
Great video! You come across very honest and sincere. Keep it up!
Luv the rv toilet at 3:52😂😁what you are saying about trailers is very true. I bought a good one from Taylor Coach, they are all metal also and marine grade plywood and furniture grade pine. Ultra light on a heavy duty frame and it also has industrial caulking that lasts from 7-10yrs!, if I had the time and knowhow And was younger,lol, I would try what ur doing!
Stay away from Jayco just garbage. I agree. Build your own with a cargo trailer if you can.
Even Airstream is mostly an expensive style statement. They definitely still have seams, and especially rivet holes, and they don't have much room for insulation so all that aluminum just transmits the heat or cold right past whatever insulation they are using. A guy on the Airstream Owners' forum tried to use one of the older "good ones" to overwinter in Alaska. He lost use of the plumbing somewhere in the 20's (F), the door started freezing shut, and after a lengthy period in the teens he was getting frost on the interior walls at the points where rivets were on the outside. The whole industry is a joke except for the extreme customizers that actually engineer their products, mostly on the high end of the price ranges (Marathon / Prevost in motorhomes, SpaceCraft in 5th wheels / towables, and Nord Euro Mobile in the industrial / cargo trailers).
"A little more weight"
Airstreams are usually twice the price, and twice the weight. And their biggest complaint is...wait for it...leaks.
Yep. those leaks. I guess all we can do is minimize the leaks as much as possible
You need to watch quality on cargo trailers also, I recently went shopping for one and at one lot tried to open the door on a new trailer, the damn door was rusted shut because the sealing was so bad, I got it open but needless to say I did not buy from that company.
Good point. I haven't really done much research into that yet. I have been concentrating on the one I bought.
This taught me so much
I think insurance is a large caveat to this idea depending on the extent of your conversion. If you're going to do a simple conversion and not alter the trailer a lot I think ensuring it as a cargo trailer might be okay. If you're going to do a 100% RV conversion full ac/dc electric plumbing and gas Insurance becomes much more problematic.
Airstreams are the better of all the builds, except for the Freightliner and coach models, but they still can spring the frame VERY easily. Once you spring the frame with a slight impact, your sunk. You have to take the outer panels off to resquare the body frame, and without the jig, you won't be able to weld it well enough to ensure it's strength again.
In general there is no reason to think a camper manufacturer requires their employees to move faster than an enclosed trailer manufacturer. Showing a single factory moving quickly and another moving slowly is not proof of industry standards. Having said that, I am still looking and your video is definitely interesting.
Horse trailers too.
I love your project and your enthusiasm. I won't do it. A used class C motorhome is cheaper in my area than a good empty cargo trailer of any decent size. Even doing it myself and pretending my time is only worth a couple bucks an hour I would end up with WAY less of a home for tons more money than just buying an RV.
And I don't need a tow rig, which adds thousands to your final budget. But hey, I completely understand the satisfaction of a unique home project successfully done!
Its true that some campers people just give away for very cheap. even it is crappy it is worth it for the price. someone gave me a camper - it was crappy, but worth it because it was free. good point.
absolutly thats the way to go ,thats exactly what I did
thumbs up!
Thanks for the comparisons. I believed that this would be a great option and you have confirmed that view, and since I will be living in my build I want it to be the best it can be.
You hit it on the nose.best idea in trailers
I don’t disagree with your points, but I think about resale. Who wants my converted cargo trailer? I’m really thinking more about a horse trailer. Solid, built to hold up to a horse, and you can buy one with living quarters. The horse portion can be used for toys or a man cave!
Plus they are mostly 5th wheel or Gooseneck. Much better going down the road.
This is great! Thank you! Looking forward to getting our trailer and making it the way we need it to be!
awesome!
Great video, definitely food for thought as I get ready to retire and go RVing. Really like the idea of designing my own to fit our needs. Thanks.