Wow! I appreciate the shout out man! Your trailer is siiiiiccckkkk. Couple of recommendations for your 2025 trailer. - no deep cycle batteries, go with Li-Ion batteries. By 2025 the cost difference will be minimal for the upgrade. Much more usable amp hours. - go overboard on axles. 2 axles should be your requirement. 6-7k axles would be ideal for your 12-14ft length.
Thanks for checking out the video Richard!! I appreciate it. A big thanks for the advice about the future trailer. I am fairly sure the largest I can entertain will be a 8x12 with as much height as I can get (7ft or taller interior). I agree with you that tandem 5000lb (or bigger) axles will be a must. The closer I get, I will keep a closer eye on the power technology as I make a plan on how to make the new trailer self-sufficient for power away from plugged in shore-power. Li-ion sounds good to me! Full confession: Part of my plan when I get closer to an actual purchase will be to become a R&R patreon so I can directly consult with you and take advantage of your knowledge and advice of low voltage and of trailer power systems. I have admired your trailer build for some time and want to make sure my next one is as functional as yours. I am not thinking on board generator at this time because I am very rarely somewhere for extended times where there is no power so batteries and solar should be enough. Thanks again for commenting! (congrats on the basement build. That.....is very very cool.)
Hey There TheMueth! Thanks for the comment. I never got a notification for your comment so my apologies for not catching it back a year ago! I live and contract and build in upstate central NY about 10hrs away. I deployed from Kalamazoo with a Army reserve special operations unit back at the beginning of the Iraq war. I didn't get to run around and explore Kalamazoo while I was there as they kept us pretty busy! Again, apologies for taking a year. If I ever head that way, I would find you for a cup of coffee on my way to Michigan to look up Renovations and Repairs, Richard!
I just purchased a 6x12 today and along with Milwaukee packout tool system. I decided to do it this way because, when Im rehabbing, the tool system allows me to be very detailed between plumbing, flooring, electrical and painting. But its mobile, so if I want to repurpose the trailer for fun and haul my kayaks, dirt bikes, or hunting supplies I can.
Congratulations on the purchase!! Sounds like a great trailer size (I could certainly use an extra 2ft of trailer). Nice idea on the packout system. I have seen others use this idea to great effect and just like you, it makes for great tool groupings per job and keeps up efficiency all while keeping the trailer as a multipurpose system (like you said, for dirt bikes and such ..... I have seen some that are emptied of the packouts to haul cabinets and material too). It sounds like you are going to have a great time with this set up and even more so, like it will help make you some money in your business! Thanks a ton for commenting and sharing your plans on your new trailer. Best of luck!
Compliments all go to you and your innovative design! It was fun to build and had paid for itself time and again. If I make it to Florida, I owe you a glass of ice tea! Thanks Ron
Really like the break down of pros and cons. Just purchased a 7x14 used to start my side gig. Going to make my shelving on rollers so I can remove when estate selling or delivering large kitchen tables. Thanks for info and good luck!
Thanks for commenting! Great idea on making your trailer multifunctional! I know a couple guys that have done that and are happy for the ability to clear it out for hauling. They tell me it is not easy to clear out with heavy drawer units or shelving units but they can do it and that is what they needed. Best of luck with your build out!
Thanks for checking out the video and commenting. I will be getting a video around about the building and using of the jig. The plan is to release it this fall, likely in November.
Based on local experience, two major "cons" of having any size trailer is having a place to park/store it, and also theft. If you MUST park it on the street or driveaway, there is going to be at least one neighbor that will complain. Spend extra on a GPS and security devices! I've had a customer's trailer stolen within 5 hours of dropping it off at our shop. Even a local Snap-On rep had his trailer stolen from a secure storage facility.
Hi DB68. Thanks for commenting. You have some very valid points! Theft is always a fear despite how many deterrents placed in the way of the criminal. I really concur to have money invested in a good GPS system and security!!! As for parking, I have the luxury of a small city/big town and have my own off-street parking but I have watched hundreds of trailer videos and know that many operate in larger more populated areas where parking has to occur off-site at a paid facility. No small issue to be sure. If someone has a van or truck only, this is likely not a problem.
New sub here! Awsome smart trailer! I'm a contractor as well, currently using a 6' x 12' trailer great trailer but like you i've out grown it. Just bought a 7' x 7' x 16' time will tell if i went to big. LoL Thanks for sharing.
Very nice trailer, good advice. I'm in the mountains with lots of steep driveways so trailers longer than 12' of so can hang up when pulling in or have limited space to turn around.
Thanks for checking out the video and your comments. You bring up a good point about trailer size. I have a relatively steep entry to the alley I park in behind my house and should consider that before upgrading to a longer trailer. I have borrowed 12ft trailers before but anything longer might be a major issue. Very appreciated! Best of luck in your business MHP489!
Great video! I have gotten so much work from my trailer set up. Same as you, having people just walk in and taking pictures. I think that when they see the consideration and care we put into our equipment and organization, it’s not hard to assume you will do your work in their home with the same care and integrity. I did all my own designs, but I was inspired by how thoroughly Ron designed all of his trailers. I think he has done 8 different trailers. I realized that there is no wrong way to do this. You will inevitably be making changes and improvements as you use your stuff. It’s old but I have a walk through of my trailer up and I have a review on Bravo brand trailers as well. Keep up the innovation and content my man!
Great comments SDA979! I very much agree with your thoughts and experiences. I know that I am not imaginative or clever enough to design my own but can take a great idea and make it work for me. Envy to you and your ability to do what I would have much trouble with. I will be certain to check out your walk-through! Thanks for checking out the video and for commenting.
I don't know if you do any actual work out of your trailer or if it acts more like a mobile storage unit, but if you plan to do any amount of work out of your new trailer you should consider attaching a canopy to the ladder rack. You see them on off-road rigs all the time and some of them can go 270 degrees around a corner. It would be faster and easier to deploy for shade and rain protection than a pop up tent, but if you use them in conjunction with one another it would give you a lot of real estate to work with
Hi Pate. Thanks for the comments and suggestion. It is a really good one. My trailer being so small inside with little countertop space does not lend itself to working in the trailer much so I am doing the work either in a house/garage or outside on the jobsite. I do have a 10x10 popup I can roll out when weather dictates but it is not tall enough or wide enough to be associated with the trailer to be effective as a continuation of the space. Ideally I would like a 10x20 popup for the extra room when working outside since that would accommodate bench w/table saw and room to rip, miter saw on stand and room to cut, and maybe materials or other workspace. With a new trailer on the horizon, an 8x12 in 2025, I am still not sure if I will end up with room enough in the trailer to do much. So to end a long answer your short question --- My current and my future trailers are really mobile tool sheds with some material storage (i.e. hardware, fasteners, electrical, plumbing). If I did more out of the trailer like Ron Paulk's two-ago buildouts which was a box truck I think, where he had a rolling workshop and could miter saw and table saw rip material right in the his set up, then I would think about extensions like you describe. (I have used one for camping back in the day for my pickup at the time.)
Great video. If any of you are debating a trailer purchase I would recommend a 16 foot trailer if possible. It can be a little more difficult to park but from my experience most places only start to get crammed when people bring in 20 foot trailers. The crew i work with is mainly carpentry but we frame and do log work as well. That being said all three of my older co workers have 16 foot trailers and from what i can tell only the oldest has his completely full. The other two have most space filled but could fit a lot more if they tried. The main reason I plan on going with that size is so I can fit a Wheel barrel compressor, Table saw with stand, and a chop saw with stand. And even after those three you can still fit like four ladders in the middle of the trailer and all your other tools on the sides. My boss has at least 5 full sized shainsaws in his trailer at all times and you can still walk down the middle without hitting them. Another plus is you can run a microwave and maybe a minifridge and still have space up around your head. These might seem like a waste but when you can fit luxury you might as well. We even go as far as insulating our trailers and installing permanent heaters for the winter. This way all your tools can stay warm and you can keep your gear dry through the winter.
Great comments 441! For my area, 16ft is the longest I would go. I know a guy who has a 16ft all outfitted and is planning a 20ft or longer! I would love the luxury of a 16 but parking at my house is the hitch in my system. A 12ft is the longest I can go and still get it into position in my area off the narrow alley at my backyard. Even then, I will likely end up with a trailer valet to move it into position. I like your idea of the microwave and minifridge. Maybe even a coffee pot/keurig. I am doing well with tools so by going to the 12 or maybe even a 14, I can spread out and be more efficient in the arrangment of tools. At that point, I will have the luxury of keeping more materials on board such as a variety of plumbing fittings, a variety of residential electrical parts, and so on. 2025 is my target date to purchase a new trailer. Ideally 8x12 and as tall as I can get it. Vertical realestate is free space for building out. Best of luck with your trailer! If you document the buildout or do a finished tour, I would like to hear about it. I have a weakness for trailer tours.
@@troyqueen9503 I know a few contractors who have done just that and have been real happy with their decision too! Congratulations on your change out. Did you or are you building out the interior at all?
Great video! I was super excited because I thought you were going to show the trailer from the side to show what it looks like with the new axle, wheels and tires. I am that guy that has an 'ISMART" 5' x 8' trailer. It is amazing how much stuff I can get into that space. It is a 1998 (that is not a typo) United 5 x 8 trailer that is in really good shape. It has never seen salt which helps a lot. I used Weatherguard cabinets for my tool storage, and I have had a friend of mine make me some custom shelves and storage ideas which helped with weight, and saving space. I installed ladder racks on top of the trailer years ago, and I always have a 24 foot extension ladder on top of it for when I need a ladder. I pull it with a 2008 Ford Ranger with 30,000 original miles. The truck has a Leer DCC cap that I have maximized all the nooks and crannies with. I don't do nearly the work I did in my younger years, so it works great for the projects I do.
Hi Russ...your trailer and truck sounds incredibly efficient! Even though I said otherwise in the video, If I had to, I could make a 5x8 work. It is reassuring to hear that you have a great setup with it. You should do a video tour and get it up on YT! I would be ready with a thumb's up. About the axle. I recently shot a "after the swap out" axle discussion and showing the tires/trailer and clearance. I really don't have an intro and "before" video for it so I will have to go through my video folders and see what I have for the "before" and when I find something that will work, I will get an axle video around but I will say that the change on camera is really subtle so I am not sure how great a comparison it will be but.....I will get something together and get it out sometime in November.
Great video! Thanks for the info. I’ll be sure to subscribe. A small trailer is better than no trailer 😬 I’ll be sure to get the right size when I’m ready to “trailer up”
Thanks for commenting and subscribing JS! I fully agree with you that something (small trailer, truck, van, push cart....) is better than nothing! I am really happy with my trailer and even though I can see the benefits of the 8x12 with extra height, this trailer is really working well for me and my "cons" are really first-world problems that are certainly negligible. Good luck when you trailer up! If you video your build out, let me know. I will tune in.
I would say it depends on what you do and what you want your trailer to do. If I were Warren and did what I do, I would go for a 7x12 (nice compromise) where, importantly, you get "free" width that you will appreciate over the 6ft which is what I have. The extra 2ft length will really come in handy depending on what you plan on hauling but is not any more hassle than a 10ft for parking and towing. My ideal and next trailer will be an 8.5ft wide by 12ft long. I get the great width for the isle and the tool storage in my organizer build out and I get the length for the banks of cabinets and long drawers for materials. I will also go for as much height as I can get since to me that is "free real estate" to have taller cabinets for tool storage. I don't plan to have any more tools than I do now, I am just hoping to spread them out more (along with having the added space for storing materials like Renovations and Repairs does, as well as Ron Paulk too.) Thanks for commenting and best of luck with your purchase and build out in any capacity for your tools or business!
I have a 6ft long 5ft tall for my handyman and an 18ft long 7ft tall for my shop, the big one is a pain to pull, so your right in a 12-14 long at 7 or so high
Hey there themueth! Thanks for commenting and checking out the video. Thanks for the reinforcement on my target size for the next and last trailer. I am thinking 12ft because I have a bear of a job parking it in my alley accessed space. 8ft wide for the isle space and flexibility of the right side buildout and……all the height I can get. Ideally I would like 7ft if I can get it. Sure…..no parking garages can be in my future but it is trade I would be willing to make for the interior ht.
Nice video. Always great to hear about custom storage projects like this. The visual quality was good. It would be nice to see an actual close-up tour of the trailer itself. The audio quality was adequate. A few other questions left unanswered by this video: what kind of vehicle do you use to tow this trailer? Are you happy with how the trailer and the vehicle work together? Do you use more than one vehicle? What are your feelings on the best configuration? That's why so many UA-cam personalities have gone to wireless audio rigs with lapelle mics.
Thanks Wingsley for commenting and with the advice. See below for playlist links if you want to see more of the trailer details. 1) I first towed the trailer with a 2012 VW Touareg SUV and then upgraded to a 2018 GMC Canyon, which I am currently towing it with. It tows well. The truck/trailer combination work well together. 2) I am very happy with this trailer and its build out compliments of Ron Paulk's design and purchased pdf plans. 3) Currently I only have one vehicle that will tow so the truck is my only go-to for towing the trailer. 4) A "best configuration" for me eventually involves a 2500 series truck and an 8x12 (by 7ft ht) trailer combination. A "best build-out" is very personal to the person and the reason for the build out and their tool/organizational needs. For me, a full SMART 8x12 trailer build out with minor "spencer" modification would work best. 5) I have in my Amazon cart, a GoPro camera, a better tripod system, and a wireless lapel mic. I will pull the trigger on these purchase when my meager YT channel earns enough money to pay for them. It is my trade off for a hobby to have the hobby pay for itself (and in this case, the equipment to make the hobby a bit more viewer/listener friendly)! For a section by section approach to "deep diving" into the trailer, check out this playlist. ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl_tbHTwk8lxiHLWcue0CrrC.html For a collection of videos around/about the trailer including my first "deep dive" into the trailer which is one of my first video sets (and it shows) check this playlist out: ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl9q3CylL-tKcP3KMVH2yF-_.html
Great job on that build out. Whats the approx. shelf depth on the right and left side? curious what you're left with in the middle? I was dead set on a 7 x 12 W/ upgraded 5k axle, now Ive been looking at a 6 x 12 w/ 80'" interior height. Im worried I wont be happy with the width. what are you're thoughts on the barn doors verse ramp door?
Thanks for commenting Joseph! The shelf depth on the right side about 24 inches. Essentially, I have 24in on the left, 24in on the right, and the isle is just under 24in. As far as recommendations, here are my thoughts on how I have experienced work-life with my trailer: While I am incredibly happy and feel blessed I have this trailer and the Paulk build out, I can honestly say I am not happy with the trailer width. I am about a year away from a new trailer and will minimally purchase a 7ft wide but will likely go with the 8ft or 8.5ft width. The greater width really will help with the large tools and will get me more isle space. I will also go with as much height as I can get since vertically, it is "free" real estate and will allow me to get an additional tool cubby bank (3 instead of 2) and taller cabinets all around. I think I am pretty firm on the 12ftV-nose trailer length since parking it is a consideration where I live and work. I am sold on the ramp door for the ease of walking in and out of the trailer and I plan on building out a couple workbenches that will go with me to jobsites and I will have them on carts/dollies and the ramp is critical for that. Given this, I will not have the barn door style since it would not allow for my workflow. Hope this helps and best of luck with your trailer!! I purchased my trailer before I discovered Ron Paulk but my "philosophy" about what I needed my trailer to do was guided by the first video I watched of his, ua-cam.com/video/Vb3c0ZRYt90/v-deo.html&ab_channel=RonPaulk (Ron Paulk's Woodshop Tour), and once I decided on what I wanted my trailer to do then the buildout decision was easy. There are hundreds of great trailer build out videos out there and there is no wrong way to go about it. I am excited for you!!!
Thanks for commenting! On my next trailer, I will definitely have a tandem axle. Likely 5000lbs each just for good measure. Best of luck with your build !
Thanks for commenting Jamie! You are appreciated. When I am heading into the job site, besides my belt, I usually take a drill and driver. If I need more than that (elec, plumbing, saws, multi tool, etc) I keep a large and two medium size DeWalt bags in the trailer and will load in and out using those. If I upgrade to a new trailer from my 6x10 to a 8x12, I will have a full “Ron Paulk” sized large tool garage with plenty of space. If this is the case, I would look into the rigid-sided tool totes and keep one or two on hand for loading in and out of job sites. I have seen many contractors on YT that make these totes up as ready-to-go preloaded kits where they drop in a saw, router, multi tool, etc and they are heading in to a job. I like that idea. If the next trailer build out is a Paulk SMART styled build, I would not go in the direction of the rolling pack out systems (whatever the brand) on trolleys but that is a great idea too. For now, the DeWalt bags work just fine!
Great video I just bought a 6 x 10 trailer enclosed 2007 Leonard. I am wanting to do the same thing I may steal some ideas from you. I’ve been working out of a toolbox and ladder rack on a pick up truck for far too long. Any ideas on running power two lights from a actual battery from a tool such as Milwaukee, Makita Dewalt?
Hi Justin. Thanks for checking out the video and for commenting. Best of luck on the build! As for any ideas.....free for the taking always, no theft required (since I stole them all myself). Definitely go to the source of Ron Paulk. Also try ShooshineJonnie and Renovations and Repairs (both have killer videos of their awesome trailers). RealWorldCarpentryRemodeling has some videos on his trailer and he uses 20V batteries to power his lights in his trailer. I copied him in a ghetto way in that I bought a USB adapter to fit my 20V dewalt batteries and then bought USB driven LED light ribbons and fed them off a battery for lights when I was off shore power. RWCR has a switch and really did it up professionally. I just plug in the USB when I need those lights. The battery adapters are on Amazon. Easy to find. Not sure about wiring up a switch but it should not be too hard especially if the LED strips have a switch built in.
Hello I absolutely loved your videos and felt greatly inspired by them. In fact, I’ve decided to build a 6x12 work trailer myself thanks to your guidance. Your presentation and attention to detail are fantastic and made the process seem manageable and exciting. I was wondering if you have the sketch files for sale? Obtaining them would significantly assist me in my project. Looking forward to your response and eager to start my build with your expert advice in mind. Keep up the excellent work, and thank you for sharing your knowledge and inspiration with all of us!
Thank you very much for checking out the video and your kind comments! Best of luck on your build. Unless I miss my guess, I believe you will really enjoy the process of the build as much as the finish project. It has really changed my entire outlook on how I approach work and my workflow. I do not have any drawings or CAD/Sketchup files for my build since it is not my design. All credit goes to Ron Paulk, The Smart Woodshop for his 30 years of designs and build outs as a full time Washington high end contractor. He inspired me with his videos and build outs to do my own. Go to his website and for a small cost, you can purchase his plans and they are immediately download ready as a pdf file. I purchased his SMART trailer plans for my build and found them easy to follow and to modify for my smaller trailer. His trailer is an 8x12 (I am 6x10). He also has a 30 video series documenting his build that I watched several times during my build. I found it all very helpful. I am not sponsored by Ron by the way. I am just a grateful fan of his work and his youtube channel. His website is ----- thesmartwoodshop.com/ Where you can get his plans --- stores.modularmarket.com/paulk_homes/trailer-mobile-shop-plans-c2.php His YT channel ------- www.youtube.com/@TheSmartWoodshop His video series for the buildout ------ ua-cam.com/play/PLB1ATCukiUGQ_gnJtfVPm7ZYnnsXeW0St.html I hope all this helps and again, best of luck with your build out!!! spence
Thank you! I’ve purchased and am studying Ron Paulk’s design. I was hopeful you might have your own design sketched out as well. No worries though! Best of luck with your future projects, and thanks again for the inspiration!
Glad to help. I have not made any sketches because it would a tremendous amount of time and could not charge for them since it is just a modification of Ron's hard work and I would not want to take anything away from Ron's ability to sell his plans even by offering my modifications for free. I do have an "a-la-carte series" of shorter and very focused videos that look at each section of the build independently and often cite measurements of the builds. Not sure if they are necessary for you but you are welcome to go to the channel and check out the playlist or click here for the playlist ------- ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl_tbHTwk8lxiHLWcue0CrrC.html
Great video. If your anything like me. I buy a bigger trailer and love it to death and then tell myself I could pull two more feet. And little by little you are shopping for a 8.5x20. Maybe just me😂
Oh....Adam. You are spot on with what could happen to me. Next is my last forever trailer at 8.5x12 but then, I see what I could do with just 2 more feet and as you said.....before I know it, I am looking for that 20fter or maybe the 24fter! Dangerous slopes and I might have stepped in grease at the top of the incline. Thanks for commenting!!!!
Thanks for checking out the video and for commenting! I have seen a Concord Carpenter YT video on the Milwaukee sander and he has good things to say after putting it through its paces. I had not heard of the Rigid sander until you mentioned it. Personally, I have not used either yet. Chances are , my good ol’ Black and Yellow have one in development so if I am patient, I might just be able to stay with the DeWalt battery platform with this tool too. If, after this time next year, I don’t see any hint of one coming to market, I might just go with the Red!
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082KJ57QM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Thanks for checking out the video! I really appreciate the comments/compliment. Above: This is a link for the 4oz jars in my hardware store. I also have the 8oz and the 16oz as well. I have been very happy with them. I like the metal lids.
Let me start off with saying Nice job... But either I'm missing something here, or it's just never mentioned... PARKING... I'm 72, and have been in business since 1974... went from remodeling, to home building, to commercial work... then as the years went on , I dropped back to remodeling, specializing in kitchens, and baths... Now I mainly work out of my shop. and only go out in the field 16 hrs. a week... ( I just can't seem to bring my self to full retirement..) But when I was full time remodeling.. 90% of my work was in a town, with NO driveways... and it was just to time consuming trying to find the perfect parking spot in front of the customers house...So if you're working in town and your customers don't have a driveway.. where do you park??
Howdy LJG! Great question! And thanks for the comments. Congrats on the partial retirement and I believe I will be just like you in a few years when I consider retiring but will never fully retire but will keep building in some aspect as long as health allows! Parking: I have the luxury of working in an area where on street parking is usually an option, even if I am across the street, where there is no driveway to take advantage of. If I am more than three houses away from the job site, it is an unusual day. So parking......typically not a big problem but when it has been, I am back to loading up the truck bed with necessary tools and unloading them at the end of the day/tarping for weather etc. I count myself very lucky to be in this position. I know, that the more urban/dense suburban areas, parking is a major issue. I follow The Handyman on YT and he is in a major city and has a trailer he usually tows. He often has talked about being a block or two away from his jobsites and the hassles of getting tools and materials to and from the JS. I guess I am in the middle of Ron Paulk (Smart Woodshop) and The Handyman. Ron mostly seems to have a driveways and garages to set up in when he was building full time. The Handyman....just the opposite when on a jobsite. I do know enough to count myself lucky on this point.
Hi Josh. Thanks for commenting! I will give a thought to setting up a camera and drive down the street a couple times but am not sure how "cinematic" it would be but really, not hard to do. Currently, my truck bed is open so I can haul debris and trash barrels so I do not have a cover or a cap so building out the truck is not an option but I have seen videos on truck buildouts that are really cool and incredibly functional.
@@sdsconstruction Ah great response. Im considering putting a lightweight welding rig in on a skid on the back of my F150 so it can be put on or taken off.
Totally not what this video was meant to share, but my curiosity has gotten the better of me and have to ask: What's the remote control for just over the miter saw? BTW: GREAT Video and GREAT Trailer!!!
Thanks for the comment! The remote over the miter is for a battery powered set of LED as secondary lighting used primarily when I am not on shore power and in lieu of using a flashlight.
Great Video - Liked-Subscribed-Notified. Love all the pro's and con's You could easily sell that tool trailer to a fellow craftsman - and buy your dream trailer.
Very very appreciated Joe! As to selling it, I have had many contractors over the past 4 years make offers that I assume at least some, were serious. Just this past week, I was sub-ing with a crew building a deck and one of the guys made an offer when I mentioned that in 2025, it is my goal to get a new trailer and build it out, he asked if I was selling this one and if I did to call him first. Nice to know I should be able to offset some of the costs of a new trailer by selling this one with its build out.
@@sdsconstruction I know its nice to customize to your particular needs and work style - but I bet you could sell the old one and pay for most of the new one. Around here (Detroit Michigan) Trailers don't depreciate much unless they are butchererd. So... might help you.
@@joecnc3341 this is my hope that when the current trailer sells, it will be a nice offset to the cost of the new. No idea what I would attempt to charge in a year and a half but it would be sold with the build out intact, including the air hose and reel and the 10/3 cord and reel. Maybe even the air compressor. I would off-load the tools, materials, chargers, etc, of course.
Thanks H for the comments. I am with you. This will be my one and only trailer with a single axle. The next one is planned to have tandem 5000lb axles under an 8.5ft x 12ft trailer with at least a 7ft interior ht.
At some point one has to say when is enough ENOUGH? You can’t possibly drive around with every tool Home Depot offers. Soon you will be towing a 40’ rig. Just a thought
Hey there @pit! Thanks for checking out the video and for the comment. I certainly agree with you on the idea that there comes a point when the next tool is one tool too many (I cringe to say it but it is tool gospel truth). I think I am about at that point in that I seem to have all I need and don't really run into situations where I have trouble because I don't have that "one tool." This to me, is a great place to be! That being said, and as you saw in the video, I am maxed out in my trailer for tool storage. My goal stated in the video, and it still is by the way, to get a 8.5x12 (with max height) trailer in 2025 after my addition is done and the back deck is built (big expenses out of the way). When I get this trailer and build it out more or less like this trailer, the great plan is to not get any more tools but to simply be able to spread what I have out in a more efficient storage system. The bigger trailer will also afford the ability to carry limited materials like Richard (Renovations and Repairs) and others do. Again, thanks for the spot on observation.
@@sdsconstruction the title of the vid is “small smart tool trailer” and that’s exactly what you have accomplished you have made every square inch work for you and in a very impressive way. I’ve seen much larger trailers used by contractors but by no means as organized as yours. Yes I have noticed it’s a little cramped when you open the draws you cant be in front of the ‘em. Also you work in a 4 season state snow becomes a problem when towing or trying to find a spot to park. Don’t take my comment as being negative I’m just impressed with the organization of your small trailer. Best of luck
@@pit4955 good morning @pit! Hope the day is off to a great start! I very much appreciate the comments and observations you made about my Paulk tool trailer and know they are spot on as to size, layout, and organization as well as having an isle that is so narrow I cannot be in front of a drawer I open unless I just need something inside the first three inches of drawer. At no point did I ever perceive anything other that good comments positively intended that allow for great dialogue/exchange about the tools and trailer. Good stuff Brother Pit…..good stuff! I really do appreciate you taking the time to not only watch a video I post but to then take the time to comment. By the way….are you a contractor? I am a full time chem and physics teacher that has had contracting as a side-hustle since 1989.
@@sdsconstruction no not a contractor just a DIY who enjoys to watch/observe all that work in a trade. I’m retired worked 48 yrs for utility company in NY (Con Edison) never paid for any repairs or remodeling always found a way to do it myself. Now living in NC just siting back and relaxing. Had a new home built because I didn’t want any fixer upers but even new I find myself redoing what a professional screwed up “can’t win” Being a teacher isn’t the easiest job today, dam if you do and dam if you don’t. Betcha you’re more relaxed sweating installing a deck. I see your better half also assists you my wife was always a great third hand still today we do it together just a little slower but now there’s no rush. Keep the videos coming you doing a great job. Just realized your trailer has NY plates small world I’m from Suffolk county Long Island was raised in the Bronx 😊
@@pit4955 I found that getting hired on to Mountain construction in 1989 and then CS August Construction in 1990 were blessings in disguise of work and sweat. I stuck with CS August every summer through college after the army and then found my old boss in 2005 when we moved back to the area and we teamed up as a 2-man contracting crew. All those years I was leaning how to be a contractor and a building I was also learning how to be self-sufficient with the ability to make it or fix it around the house. I actually became handy (much to my wife's relief). The only contractor I ever had work on my house was a steam plumber to install a new boiler and add 3 radiators. Everything else, my wife hires me. She doesn't pay well but she is the only client who hugs me at the end of a job so I guess I am pretty affordable. My buddy up and left me and headed to TN to enjoy the retired life. I hear he is ripping out his kitchen this week! I have another 12 years before I can wake up at the end of August and wonder what I am going to do that day, not having the hour commute to my rural high school. I will bet I wake up that day to a list. Good times! And....like you, I will have a great and beautiful extra set of hands right there waiting to catch the board! Very good times.... Thanks for the comments!
Thanks for commenting! As far as I know it should weigh in around 4000lbs at this time but I need to get to some scales to verify now I have the new axle.
@@wbertino80 howdy WB! Since the reply chain, back and forth here, from a few months ago, I have not had an opportunity with the trailer hooked up to get to a scales so I am still at the “over 4000lbs” estimate. If I am over 4600lbs, I would be very surprised. If I get it on some scales this summer, I will be sure to report back and would likely do a video on it! I do know that with the 5k lb axle, the trailer rides very well and I have had it on the road for a job 150 miles away, 3hrs on the road. Zero issues. I was over 3500lbs last time I weighed it (3700?lbs maybe) on the smaller axle and that clinched the decision to upgrade. In fact, I called the trailer shop the next day and got the process started while limiting how often I traveled with the trailer. The new axle will weigh more so there will be that added to the trailer. Otherwise, my trailer and tool setup can’t grow since I am maxed out so when I get a new tool, a tool has to leave the trailer to make space. At this point, the weight is a fixed number (whatever the number is) and will not change one way or another with exception to when I put something in the isle for specific jobs (like a tile saw). Thanks for reminding me I haven’t weighed it recently and should probably do so!
Howdy Opie! I checked with the trailer and it said it was approximately equal to 10^(.9030899699). I confess to being skeptical so I ran the trailer's logarithm through a calculator and 8 was the answer. Darned ol trailer was just showing off! Thanks for the comments!!!
Thanks for the request and checking out the video AO! Here is a recent "fly around shallow dive into the trailer .... a quick-ish tour" ua-cam.com/video/2phHxuSHcyQ/v-deo.html And if you are still interested, here are a couple playlists of videos that have trailer tours and such. The "a la carte" series looks at specific areas of the trailer in shorter videos. The main trailer playlist has longer videos. And....if you watch my most popular video (one of my first videos) be warned that I was real new to making videos and had no way to edit anything so my original tours are longer than need be and have comments and stories I would now edit out if I shot it today. Hope you find something you like: Playlists of mine Trailer .......and then .........trailer a la carte ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl9q3CylL-tKcP3KMVH2yF-_.html ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl_tbHTwk8lxiHLWcue0CrrC.html
Thanks for checking out the video! In a couple years I am planning on upgrading to an aluminum 8x12 trailer and building that out as a new SMART trailer. When I have that one completed, my current plan is to sell this one. The buildout would stay, only the tools and material would transfer to the new trailer. It is a while from now to be sure but when it happens, I will definitely put the word out to any interested party.
Thanks for the comment! You are half right. It is indeed a tool trailer and jobs pay for fasteners. My trailer also has a decent and varied selection of hardware both common things like 16d nails and 2in drywall screws but I also have a lot of not often needed hardware like fender washers and mirror holders. My goal is to show up to jobs next notmhave to drop everything and head to Home Depot for two #6 x 1in pan head screws because the ones provided were missing or stripped out during installation. The “hardware store” in the trailer inspired by Ron Paulk and a number of other trailer-using contractors out there and how efficient it is to have it with me and not have to constantly worry that I remembered it for each job.
Howdy Krypto! Thanks for the comment and the observation. Indeed, if I carried fewer things, I would have more room. I carry what I use and what I would use for potential circumstances on jobs. Other than masonry, I am a one stop shop to do most things on a job site so I carry what I need to make the work happen and get a paycheck. If I specialized, you would be entirely spot on …. As if I were a trim carpenter for instance…..then I would need way fewer tools. Send me a link to your trailer videos and I can see how you have been able to streamline your contracting operation. Thanks!
Wow! I appreciate the shout out man! Your trailer is siiiiiccckkkk.
Couple of recommendations for your 2025 trailer.
- no deep cycle batteries, go with Li-Ion batteries. By 2025 the cost difference will be minimal for the upgrade. Much more usable amp hours.
- go overboard on axles. 2 axles should be your requirement. 6-7k axles would be ideal for your 12-14ft length.
Thanks for checking out the video Richard!! I appreciate it.
A big thanks for the advice about the future trailer. I am fairly sure the largest I can entertain will be a 8x12 with as much height as I can get (7ft or taller interior). I agree with you that tandem 5000lb (or bigger) axles will be a must. The closer I get, I will keep a closer eye on the power technology as I make a plan on how to make the new trailer self-sufficient for power away from plugged in shore-power. Li-ion sounds good to me!
Full confession: Part of my plan when I get closer to an actual purchase will be to become a R&R patreon so I can directly consult with you and take advantage of your knowledge and advice of low voltage and of trailer power systems. I have admired your trailer build for some time and want to make sure my next one is as functional as yours.
I am not thinking on board generator at this time because I am very rarely somewhere for extended times where there is no power so batteries and solar should be enough.
Thanks again for commenting! (congrats on the basement build. That.....is very very cool.)
What area do you run in? I'm in Kalamazoo, would love to meet up if your close.
Hey There TheMueth! Thanks for the comment. I never got a notification for your comment so my apologies for not catching it back a year ago! I live and contract and build in upstate central NY about 10hrs away. I deployed from Kalamazoo with a Army reserve special operations unit back at the beginning of the Iraq war. I didn't get to run around and explore Kalamazoo while I was there as they kept us pretty busy!
Again, apologies for taking a year. If I ever head that way, I would find you for a cup of coffee on my way to Michigan to look up Renovations and Repairs, Richard!
I just purchased a 6x12 today and along with Milwaukee packout tool system. I decided to do it this way because, when Im rehabbing, the tool system allows me to be very detailed between plumbing, flooring, electrical and painting. But its mobile, so if I want to repurpose the trailer for fun and haul my kayaks, dirt bikes, or hunting supplies I can.
Congratulations on the purchase!! Sounds like a great trailer size (I could certainly use an extra 2ft of trailer). Nice idea on the packout system. I have seen others use this idea to great effect and just like you, it makes for great tool groupings per job and keeps up efficiency all while keeping the trailer as a multipurpose system (like you said, for dirt bikes and such ..... I have seen some that are emptied of the packouts to haul cabinets and material too).
It sounds like you are going to have a great time with this set up and even more so, like it will help make you some money in your business!
Thanks a ton for commenting and sharing your plans on your new trailer. Best of luck!
same thing i did for my trailer as well
You should upload a picture of your setup.
Sounds very cool. Did you post any video or pics of the trailer?
I second this comment.
I like the smaller trailer! You have done a great job using the space well.
Compliments all go to you and your innovative design! It was fun to build and had paid for itself time and again. If I make it to Florida, I owe you a glass of ice tea! Thanks Ron
Really like the break down of pros and cons. Just purchased a 7x14 used to start my side gig. Going to make my shelving on rollers so I can remove when estate selling or delivering large kitchen tables. Thanks for info and good luck!
Thanks for commenting! Great idea on making your trailer multifunctional! I know a couple guys that have done that and are happy for the ability to clear it out for hauling. They tell me it is not easy to clear out with heavy drawer units or shelving units but they can do it and that is what they needed. Best of luck with your build out!
Good info. I’d love to see that router jig for the cubby!
Thanks for checking out the video and commenting. I will be getting a video around about the building and using of the jig. The plan is to release it this fall, likely in November.
Based on local experience, two major "cons" of having any size trailer is having a place to park/store it, and also theft. If you MUST park it on the street or driveaway, there is going to be at least one neighbor that will complain. Spend extra on a GPS and security devices! I've had a customer's trailer stolen within 5 hours of dropping it off at our shop. Even a local Snap-On rep had his trailer stolen from a secure storage facility.
Hi DB68. Thanks for commenting. You have some very valid points! Theft is always a fear despite how many deterrents placed in the way of the criminal. I really concur to have money invested in a good GPS system and security!!!
As for parking, I have the luxury of a small city/big town and have my own off-street parking but I have watched hundreds of trailer videos and know that many operate in larger more populated areas where parking has to occur off-site at a paid facility. No small issue to be sure. If someone has a van or truck only, this is likely not a problem.
New sub here! Awsome smart trailer! I'm a contractor as well, currently using a 6' x 12' trailer great trailer but like you i've out grown it. Just bought a 7' x 7' x 16' time will tell if i went to big. LoL Thanks for sharing.
I am envious William!!!! 7x7x16! Oh....the possibilities. Thanks for subscribing and for the comments.
Very nice trailer, good advice. I'm in the mountains with lots of steep driveways so trailers longer than 12' of so can hang up when pulling in or have limited space to turn around.
Thanks for checking out the video and your comments. You bring up a good point about trailer size. I have a relatively steep entry to the alley I park in behind my house and should consider that before upgrading to a longer trailer. I have borrowed 12ft trailers before but anything longer might be a major issue. Very appreciated! Best of luck in your business MHP489!
Great video! I have gotten so much work from my trailer set up. Same as you, having people just walk in and taking pictures. I think that when they see the consideration and care we put into our equipment and organization, it’s not hard to assume you will do your work in their home with the same care and integrity. I did all my own designs, but I was inspired by how thoroughly Ron designed all of his trailers. I think he has done 8 different trailers. I realized that there is no wrong way to do this. You will inevitably be making changes and improvements as you use your stuff. It’s old but I have a walk through of my trailer up and I have a review on Bravo brand trailers as well. Keep up the innovation and content my man!
Great comments SDA979! I very much agree with your thoughts and experiences. I know that I am not imaginative or clever enough to design my own but can take a great idea and make it work for me. Envy to you and your ability to do what I would have much trouble with. I will be certain to check out your walk-through! Thanks for checking out the video and for commenting.
@@sdsconstruction Noproblemmo my man. I look forward to seeing you next set up and evolution.
I don't know if you do any actual work out of your trailer or if it acts more like a mobile storage unit, but if you plan to do any amount of work out of your new trailer you should consider attaching a canopy to the ladder rack. You see them on off-road rigs all the time and some of them can go 270 degrees around a corner. It would be faster and easier to deploy for shade and rain protection than a pop up tent, but if you use them in conjunction with one another it would give you a lot of real estate to work with
Hi Pate. Thanks for the comments and suggestion. It is a really good one.
My trailer being so small inside with little countertop space does not lend itself to working in the trailer much so I am doing the work either in a house/garage or outside on the jobsite. I do have a 10x10 popup I can roll out when weather dictates but it is not tall enough or wide enough to be associated with the trailer to be effective as a continuation of the space.
Ideally I would like a 10x20 popup for the extra room when working outside since that would accommodate bench w/table saw and room to rip, miter saw on stand and room to cut, and maybe materials or other workspace. With a new trailer on the horizon, an 8x12 in 2025, I am still not sure if I will end up with room enough in the trailer to do much.
So to end a long answer your short question --- My current and my future trailers are really mobile tool sheds with some material storage (i.e. hardware, fasteners, electrical, plumbing).
If I did more out of the trailer like Ron Paulk's two-ago buildouts which was a box truck I think, where he had a rolling workshop and could miter saw and table saw rip material right in the his set up, then I would think about extensions like you describe. (I have used one for camping back in the day for my pickup at the time.)
Great video. If any of you are debating a trailer purchase I would recommend a 16 foot trailer if possible. It can be a little more difficult to park but from my experience most places only start to get crammed when people bring in 20 foot trailers. The crew i work with is mainly carpentry but we frame and do log work as well. That being said all three of my older co workers have 16 foot trailers and from what i can tell only the oldest has his completely full. The other two have most space filled but could fit a lot more if they tried. The main reason I plan on going with that size is so I can fit a Wheel barrel compressor, Table saw with stand, and a chop saw with stand. And even after those three you can still fit like four ladders in the middle of the trailer and all your other tools on the sides. My boss has at least 5 full sized shainsaws in his trailer at all times and you can still walk down the middle without hitting them. Another plus is you can run a microwave and maybe a minifridge and still have space up around your head. These might seem like a waste but when you can fit luxury you might as well. We even go as far as insulating our trailers and installing permanent heaters for the winter. This way all your tools can stay warm and you can keep your gear dry through the winter.
Great comments 441! For my area, 16ft is the longest I would go. I know a guy who has a 16ft all outfitted and is planning a 20ft or longer! I would love the luxury of a 16 but parking at my house is the hitch in my system. A 12ft is the longest I can go and still get it into position in my area off the narrow alley at my backyard. Even then, I will likely end up with a trailer valet to move it into position.
I like your idea of the microwave and minifridge. Maybe even a coffee pot/keurig. I am doing well with tools so by going to the 12 or maybe even a 14, I can spread out and be more efficient in the arrangment of tools. At that point, I will have the luxury of keeping more materials on board such as a variety of plumbing fittings, a variety of residential electrical parts, and so on. 2025 is my target date to purchase a new trailer. Ideally 8x12 and as tall as I can get it. Vertical realestate is free space for building out.
Best of luck with your trailer! If you document the buildout or do a finished tour, I would like to hear about it. I have a weakness for trailer tours.
@@sdsconstruction Ill make sure I send the video when i get around to it I have the same problem haha.
Sold my truck and trailer, bought a fed ex style with a power tailgate, take 16 ft materials, best decision.
@@troyqueen9503 I know a few contractors who have done just that and have been real happy with their decision too! Congratulations on your change out. Did you or are you building out the interior at all?
Great video! I was super excited because I thought you were going to show the trailer from the side to show what it looks like with the new axle, wheels and tires. I am that guy that has an 'ISMART" 5' x 8' trailer. It is amazing how much stuff I can get into that space. It is a 1998 (that is not a typo) United 5 x 8 trailer that is in really good shape. It has never seen salt which helps a lot. I used Weatherguard cabinets for my tool storage, and I have had a friend of mine make me some custom shelves and storage ideas which helped with weight, and saving space. I installed ladder racks on top of the trailer years ago, and I always have a 24 foot extension ladder on top of it for when I need a ladder. I pull it with a 2008 Ford Ranger with 30,000 original miles. The truck has a Leer DCC cap that I have maximized all the nooks and crannies with. I don't do nearly the work I did in my younger years, so it works great for the projects I do.
Hi Russ...your trailer and truck sounds incredibly efficient! Even though I said otherwise in the video, If I had to, I could make a 5x8 work. It is reassuring to hear that you have a great setup with it. You should do a video tour and get it up on YT! I would be ready with a thumb's up.
About the axle. I recently shot a "after the swap out" axle discussion and showing the tires/trailer and clearance. I really don't have an intro and "before" video for it so I will have to go through my video folders and see what I have for the "before" and when I find something that will work, I will get an axle video around but I will say that the change on camera is really subtle so I am not sure how great a comparison it will be but.....I will get something together and get it out sometime in November.
Great video! Thanks for the info. I’ll be sure to subscribe. A small trailer is better than no trailer 😬 I’ll be sure to get the right size when I’m ready to “trailer up”
Thanks for commenting and subscribing JS! I fully agree with you that something (small trailer, truck, van, push cart....) is better than nothing! I am really happy with my trailer and even though I can see the benefits of the 8x12 with extra height, this trailer is really working well for me and my "cons" are really first-world problems that are certainly negligible. Good luck when you trailer up! If you video your build out, let me know. I will tune in.
Nice vid. Having a hard time deciding on trailer size right now for my business. Thinking of a 7x10 or a 6x12 with V nose.
I would say it depends on what you do and what you want your trailer to do. If I were Warren and did what I do, I would go for a 7x12 (nice compromise) where, importantly, you get "free" width that you will appreciate over the 6ft which is what I have. The extra 2ft length will really come in handy depending on what you plan on hauling but is not any more hassle than a 10ft for parking and towing.
My ideal and next trailer will be an 8.5ft wide by 12ft long. I get the great width for the isle and the tool storage in my organizer build out and I get the length for the banks of cabinets and long drawers for materials. I will also go for as much height as I can get since to me that is "free real estate" to have taller cabinets for tool storage. I don't plan to have any more tools than I do now, I am just hoping to spread them out more (along with having the added space for storing materials like Renovations and Repairs does, as well as Ron Paulk too.)
Thanks for commenting and best of luck with your purchase and build out in any capacity for your tools or business!
I have a 6ft long 5ft tall for my handyman and an 18ft long 7ft tall for my shop, the big one is a pain to pull, so your right in a 12-14 long at 7 or so high
Hey there themueth! Thanks for commenting and checking out the video. Thanks for the reinforcement on my target size for the next and last trailer. I am thinking 12ft because I have a bear of a job parking it in my alley accessed space. 8ft wide for the isle space and flexibility of the right side buildout and……all the height I can get. Ideally I would like 7ft if I can get it. Sure…..no parking garages can be in my future but it is trade I would be willing to make for the interior ht.
Nice video. Always great to hear about custom storage projects like this. The visual quality was good. It would be nice to see an actual close-up tour of the trailer itself. The audio quality was adequate. A few other questions left unanswered by this video: what kind of vehicle do you use to tow this trailer? Are you happy with how the trailer and the vehicle work together? Do you use more than one vehicle? What are your feelings on the best configuration? That's why so many UA-cam personalities have gone to wireless audio rigs with lapelle mics.
Thanks Wingsley for commenting and with the advice. See below for playlist links if you want to see more of the trailer details.
1) I first towed the trailer with a 2012 VW Touareg SUV and then upgraded to a 2018 GMC Canyon, which I am currently towing it with. It tows well. The truck/trailer combination work well together.
2) I am very happy with this trailer and its build out compliments of Ron Paulk's design and purchased pdf plans.
3) Currently I only have one vehicle that will tow so the truck is my only go-to for towing the trailer.
4) A "best configuration" for me eventually involves a 2500 series truck and an 8x12 (by 7ft ht) trailer combination. A "best build-out" is very personal to the person and the reason for the build out and their tool/organizational needs. For me, a full SMART 8x12 trailer build out with minor "spencer" modification would work best.
5) I have in my Amazon cart, a GoPro camera, a better tripod system, and a wireless lapel mic. I will pull the trigger on these purchase when my meager YT channel earns enough money to pay for them. It is my trade off for a hobby to have the hobby pay for itself (and in this case, the equipment to make the hobby a bit more viewer/listener friendly)!
For a section by section approach to "deep diving" into the trailer, check out this playlist.
ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl_tbHTwk8lxiHLWcue0CrrC.html
For a collection of videos around/about the trailer including my first "deep dive" into the trailer which is one of my first video sets (and it shows) check this playlist out:
ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl9q3CylL-tKcP3KMVH2yF-_.html
Great job on that build out. Whats the approx. shelf depth on the right and left side? curious what you're left with in the middle? I was dead set on a 7 x 12 W/ upgraded 5k axle, now Ive been looking at a 6 x 12 w/ 80'" interior height. Im worried I wont be happy with the width.
what are you're thoughts on the barn doors verse ramp door?
Thanks for commenting Joseph! The shelf depth on the right side about 24 inches. Essentially, I have 24in on the left, 24in on the right, and the isle is just under 24in.
As far as recommendations, here are my thoughts on how I have experienced work-life with my trailer:
While I am incredibly happy and feel blessed I have this trailer and the Paulk build out, I can honestly say I am not happy with the trailer width. I am about a year away from a new trailer and will minimally purchase a 7ft wide but will likely go with the 8ft or 8.5ft width. The greater width really will help with the large tools and will get me more isle space.
I will also go with as much height as I can get since vertically, it is "free" real estate and will allow me to get an additional tool cubby bank (3 instead of 2) and taller cabinets all around.
I think I am pretty firm on the 12ftV-nose trailer length since parking it is a consideration where I live and work.
I am sold on the ramp door for the ease of walking in and out of the trailer and I plan on building out a couple workbenches that will go with me to jobsites and I will have them on carts/dollies and the ramp is critical for that. Given this, I will not have the barn door style since it would not allow for my workflow.
Hope this helps and best of luck with your trailer!! I purchased my trailer before I discovered Ron Paulk but my "philosophy" about what I needed my trailer to do was guided by the first video I watched of his, ua-cam.com/video/Vb3c0ZRYt90/v-deo.html&ab_channel=RonPaulk (Ron Paulk's Woodshop Tour), and once I decided on what I wanted my trailer to do then the buildout decision was easy. There are hundreds of great trailer build out videos out there and there is no wrong way to go about it. I am excited for you!!!
Great content. I’m getting ready to build mine and am leaning toward a dual axle. It helps with sway and if you get a flat or blowout.
Thanks for commenting! On my next trailer, I will definitely have a tandem axle. Likely 5000lbs each just for good measure. Best of luck with your build !
Awesome trailer!!! What is your system for bringing tools from the cubbies to the job if you need multiple tools?
Thanks for commenting Jamie! You are appreciated. When I am heading into the job site, besides my belt, I usually take a drill and driver. If I need more than that (elec, plumbing, saws, multi tool, etc) I keep a large and two medium size DeWalt bags in the trailer and will load in and out using those. If I upgrade to a new trailer from my 6x10 to a 8x12, I will have a full “Ron Paulk” sized large tool garage with plenty of space. If this is the case, I would look into the rigid-sided tool totes and keep one or two on hand for loading in and out of job sites. I have seen many contractors on YT that make these totes up as ready-to-go preloaded kits where they drop in a saw, router, multi tool, etc and they are heading in to a job. I like that idea. If the next trailer build out is a Paulk SMART styled build, I would not go in the direction of the rolling pack out systems (whatever the brand) on trolleys but that is a great idea too.
For now, the DeWalt bags work just fine!
Great video I just bought a 6 x 10 trailer enclosed 2007 Leonard. I am wanting to do the same thing I may steal some ideas from you. I’ve been working out of a toolbox and ladder rack on a pick up truck for far too long. Any ideas on running power two lights from a actual battery from a tool such as Milwaukee, Makita Dewalt?
Hi Justin. Thanks for checking out the video and for commenting. Best of luck on the build! As for any ideas.....free for the taking always, no theft required (since I stole them all myself). Definitely go to the source of Ron Paulk. Also try ShooshineJonnie and Renovations and Repairs (both have killer videos of their awesome trailers).
RealWorldCarpentryRemodeling has some videos on his trailer and he uses 20V batteries to power his lights in his trailer. I copied him in a ghetto way in that I bought a USB adapter to fit my 20V dewalt batteries and then bought USB driven LED light ribbons and fed them off a battery for lights when I was off shore power. RWCR has a switch and really did it up professionally. I just plug in the USB when I need those lights.
The battery adapters are on Amazon. Easy to find. Not sure about wiring up a switch but it should not be too hard especially if the LED strips have a switch built in.
Hello I absolutely loved your videos and felt greatly inspired by them. In fact, I’ve decided to build a 6x12 work trailer myself thanks to your guidance. Your presentation and attention to detail are fantastic and made the process seem manageable and exciting. I was wondering if you have the sketch files for sale? Obtaining them would significantly assist me in my project. Looking forward to your response and eager to start my build with your expert advice in mind. Keep up the excellent work, and thank you for sharing your knowledge and inspiration with all of us!
Thank you very much for checking out the video and your kind comments! Best of luck on your build. Unless I miss my guess, I believe you will really enjoy the process of the build as much as the finish project. It has really changed my entire outlook on how I approach work and my workflow.
I do not have any drawings or CAD/Sketchup files for my build since it is not my design. All credit goes to Ron Paulk, The Smart Woodshop for his 30 years of designs and build outs as a full time Washington high end contractor. He inspired me with his videos and build outs to do my own. Go to his website and for a small cost, you can purchase his plans and they are immediately download ready as a pdf file. I purchased his SMART trailer plans for my build and found them easy to follow and to modify for my smaller trailer. His trailer is an 8x12 (I am 6x10). He also has a 30 video series documenting his build that I watched several times during my build. I found it all very helpful. I am not sponsored by Ron by the way. I am just a grateful fan of his work and his youtube channel.
His website is ----- thesmartwoodshop.com/
Where you can get his plans --- stores.modularmarket.com/paulk_homes/trailer-mobile-shop-plans-c2.php
His YT channel ------- www.youtube.com/@TheSmartWoodshop
His video series for the buildout ------ ua-cam.com/play/PLB1ATCukiUGQ_gnJtfVPm7ZYnnsXeW0St.html
I hope all this helps and again, best of luck with your build out!!!
spence
Thank you! I’ve purchased and am studying Ron Paulk’s design. I was hopeful you might have your own design sketched out as well. No worries though! Best of luck with your future projects, and thanks again for the inspiration!
Glad to help. I have not made any sketches because it would a tremendous amount of time and could not charge for them since it is just a modification of Ron's hard work and I would not want to take anything away from Ron's ability to sell his plans even by offering my modifications for free. I do have an "a-la-carte series" of shorter and very focused videos that look at each section of the build independently and often cite measurements of the builds. Not sure if they are necessary for you but you are welcome to go to the channel and check out the playlist or click here for the playlist ------- ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl_tbHTwk8lxiHLWcue0CrrC.html
Great video. If your anything like me. I buy a bigger trailer and love it to death and then tell myself I could pull two more feet. And little by little you are shopping for a 8.5x20. Maybe just me😂
Oh....Adam. You are spot on with what could happen to me. Next is my last forever trailer at 8.5x12 but then, I see what I could do with just 2 more feet and as you said.....before I know it, I am looking for that 20fter or maybe the 24fter! Dangerous slopes and I might have stepped in grease at the top of the incline. Thanks for commenting!!!!
Thanks for the video. You mentioned belt sanders. I know Ridgid and Milwaukee makes a battery version. Any experience with these sanders?
Thanks for checking out the video and for commenting! I have seen a Concord Carpenter YT video on the Milwaukee sander and he has good things to say after putting it through its paces. I had not heard of the Rigid sander until you mentioned it. Personally, I have not used either yet. Chances are , my good ol’ Black and Yellow have one in development so if I am patient, I might just be able to stay with the DeWalt battery platform with this tool too. If, after this time next year, I don’t see any hint of one coming to market, I might just go with the Red!
.Can you share what fifty cent containers you use. Awesome trailer,!
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B082KJ57QM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Thanks for checking out the video! I really appreciate the comments/compliment.
Above: This is a link for the 4oz jars in my hardware store. I also have the 8oz and the 16oz as well. I have been very happy with them. I like the metal lids.
Let me start off with saying Nice job... But either I'm missing something here, or it's just never mentioned... PARKING... I'm 72, and have been in business since 1974... went from remodeling, to home building, to commercial work... then as the years went on , I dropped back to remodeling, specializing in kitchens, and baths... Now I mainly work out of my shop. and only go out in the field 16 hrs. a week... ( I just can't seem to bring my self to full retirement..) But when I was full time remodeling.. 90% of my work was in a town, with NO driveways... and it was just to time consuming trying to find the perfect parking spot in front of the customers house...So if you're working in town and your customers don't have a driveway.. where do you park??
Howdy LJG! Great question! And thanks for the comments. Congrats on the partial retirement and I believe I will be just like you in a few years when I consider retiring but will never fully retire but will keep building in some aspect as long as health allows!
Parking: I have the luxury of working in an area where on street parking is usually an option, even if I am across the street, where there is no driveway to take advantage of. If I am more than three houses away from the job site, it is an unusual day. So parking......typically not a big problem but when it has been, I am back to loading up the truck bed with necessary tools and unloading them at the end of the day/tarping for weather etc.
I count myself very lucky to be in this position. I know, that the more urban/dense suburban areas, parking is a major issue. I follow The Handyman on YT and he is in a major city and has a trailer he usually tows. He often has talked about being a block or two away from his jobsites and the hassles of getting tools and materials to and from the JS.
I guess I am in the middle of Ron Paulk (Smart Woodshop) and The Handyman. Ron mostly seems to have a driveways and garages to set up in when he was building full time. The Handyman....just the opposite when on a jobsite. I do know enough to count myself lucky on this point.
I wanna see your rig hauling that. Maybe put storage in the truck too
Hi Josh. Thanks for commenting! I will give a thought to setting up a camera and drive down the street a couple times but am not sure how "cinematic" it would be but really, not hard to do.
Currently, my truck bed is open so I can haul debris and trash barrels so I do not have a cover or a cap so building out the truck is not an option but I have seen videos on truck buildouts that are really cool and incredibly functional.
@@sdsconstruction Ah great response. Im considering putting a lightweight welding rig in on a skid on the back of my F150 so it can be put on or taken off.
@@joshfixall7938 That should work out real well and it keeps your truck bed fairly ready for anything when not on-site welding.
Totally not what this video was meant to share, but my curiosity has gotten the better of me and have to ask: What's the remote control for just over the miter saw?
BTW: GREAT Video and GREAT Trailer!!!
Thanks for the comment! The remote over the miter is for a battery powered set of LED as secondary lighting used primarily when I am not on shore power and in lieu of using a flashlight.
Great Video - Liked-Subscribed-Notified. Love all the pro's and con's You could easily sell that tool trailer to a fellow craftsman - and buy your dream trailer.
Very very appreciated Joe! As to selling it, I have had many contractors over the past 4 years make offers that I assume at least some, were serious. Just this past week, I was sub-ing with a crew building a deck and one of the guys made an offer when I mentioned that in 2025, it is my goal to get a new trailer and build it out, he asked if I was selling this one and if I did to call him first. Nice to know I should be able to offset some of the costs of a new trailer by selling this one with its build out.
@@sdsconstruction I know its nice to customize to your particular needs and work style - but I bet you could sell the old one and pay for most of the new one. Around here (Detroit Michigan) Trailers don't depreciate much unless they are butchererd. So... might help you.
@@joecnc3341 this is my hope that when the current trailer sells, it will be a nice offset to the cost of the new. No idea what I would attempt to charge in a year and a half but it would be sold with the build out intact, including the air hose and reel and the 10/3 cord and reel. Maybe even the air compressor. I would off-load the tools, materials, chargers, etc, of course.
Just subscribed thanks for the review
Axe! Thanks for the SUB and thanks for the comment!
I'll never do a single axle again. Follow one and you'll see why everything gets so banged up inside
Thanks H for the comments. I am with you. This will be my one and only trailer with a single axle. The next one is planned to have tandem 5000lb axles under an 8.5ft x 12ft trailer with at least a 7ft interior ht.
At some point one has to say when is enough ENOUGH? You can’t possibly drive around with every tool Home Depot offers. Soon you will be towing a 40’ rig. Just a thought
Hey there @pit! Thanks for checking out the video and for the comment. I certainly agree with you on the idea that there comes a point when the next tool is one tool too many (I cringe to say it but it is tool gospel truth). I think I am about at that point in that I seem to have all I need and don't really run into situations where I have trouble because I don't have that "one tool." This to me, is a great place to be!
That being said, and as you saw in the video, I am maxed out in my trailer for tool storage. My goal stated in the video, and it still is by the way, to get a 8.5x12 (with max height) trailer in 2025 after my addition is done and the back deck is built (big expenses out of the way). When I get this trailer and build it out more or less like this trailer, the great plan is to not get any more tools but to simply be able to spread what I have out in a more efficient storage system. The bigger trailer will also afford the ability to carry limited materials like Richard (Renovations and Repairs) and others do.
Again, thanks for the spot on observation.
@@sdsconstruction the title of the vid is “small smart tool trailer” and that’s exactly what you have accomplished you have made every square inch work for you and in a very impressive way. I’ve seen much larger trailers used by contractors but by no means as organized as yours. Yes I have noticed it’s a little cramped when you open the draws you cant be in front of the ‘em. Also you work in a 4 season state snow becomes a problem when towing or trying to find a spot to park. Don’t take my comment as being negative I’m just impressed with the organization of your small trailer.
Best of luck
@@pit4955 good morning @pit! Hope the day is off to a great start! I very much appreciate the comments and observations you made about my Paulk tool trailer and know they are spot on as to size, layout, and organization as well as having an isle that is so narrow I cannot be in front of a drawer I open unless I just need something inside the first three inches of drawer. At no point did I ever perceive anything other that good comments positively intended that allow for great dialogue/exchange about the tools and trailer. Good stuff Brother Pit…..good stuff! I really do appreciate you taking the time to not only watch a video I post but to then take the time to comment. By the way….are you a contractor? I am a full time chem and physics teacher that has had contracting as a side-hustle since 1989.
@@sdsconstruction no not a contractor just a DIY who enjoys to watch/observe all that work in a trade. I’m retired worked 48 yrs for utility company in NY (Con Edison) never paid for any repairs or remodeling always found a way to do it myself. Now living in NC just siting back and relaxing. Had a new home built because I didn’t want any fixer upers but even new I find myself redoing what a professional screwed up “can’t win”
Being a teacher isn’t the easiest job today, dam if you do and dam if you don’t. Betcha you’re more relaxed sweating installing a deck. I see your better half also assists you my wife was always a great third hand still today we do it together just a little slower but now there’s no rush.
Keep the videos coming you doing a great job.
Just realized your trailer has NY plates small world I’m from Suffolk county Long Island was raised in the Bronx 😊
@@pit4955 I found that getting hired on to Mountain construction in 1989 and then CS August Construction in 1990 were blessings in disguise of work and sweat. I stuck with CS August every summer through college after the army and then found my old boss in 2005 when we moved back to the area and we teamed up as a 2-man contracting crew. All those years I was leaning how to be a contractor and a building I was also learning how to be self-sufficient with the ability to make it or fix it around the house. I actually became handy (much to my wife's relief). The only contractor I ever had work on my house was a steam plumber to install a new boiler and add 3 radiators. Everything else, my wife hires me. She doesn't pay well but she is the only client who hugs me at the end of a job so I guess I am pretty affordable.
My buddy up and left me and headed to TN to enjoy the retired life. I hear he is ripping out his kitchen this week! I have another 12 years before I can wake up at the end of August and wonder what I am going to do that day, not having the hour commute to my rural high school. I will bet I wake up that day to a list. Good times! And....like you, I will have a great and beautiful extra set of hands right there waiting to catch the board! Very good times....
Thanks for the comments!
What does your trailer weigh?
Thanks for commenting! As far as I know it should weigh in around 4000lbs at this time but I need to get to some scales to verify now I have the new axle.
@@sdsconstruction Did you ever get to weigh it. I'm also curious to know what the trailer weighs loaded.
@@wbertino80 howdy WB! Since the reply chain, back and forth here, from a few months ago, I have not had an opportunity with the trailer hooked up to get to a scales so I am still at the “over 4000lbs” estimate. If I am over 4600lbs, I would be very surprised. If I get it on some scales this summer, I will be sure to report back and would likely do a video on it! I do know that with the 5k lb axle, the trailer rides very well and I have had it on the road for a job 150 miles away, 3hrs on the road. Zero issues. I was over 3500lbs last time I weighed it (3700?lbs maybe) on the smaller axle and that clinched the decision to upgrade. In fact, I called the trailer shop the next day and got the process started while limiting how often I traveled with the trailer. The new axle will weigh more so there will be that added to the trailer. Otherwise, my trailer and tool setup can’t grow since I am maxed out so when I get a new tool, a tool has to leave the trailer to make space. At this point, the weight is a fixed number (whatever the number is) and will not change one way or another with exception to when I put something in the isle for specific jobs (like a tile saw). Thanks for reminding me I haven’t weighed it recently and should probably do so!
Smart trailer.. Can you ask your trailer what is the square root of 64? Thanks...
Howdy Opie! I checked with the trailer and it said it was approximately equal to 10^(.9030899699). I confess to being skeptical so I ran the trailer's logarithm through a calculator and 8 was the answer. Darned ol trailer was just showing off! Thanks for the comments!!!
@@sdsconstruction LOL!!!!!! You really do have a smart trailer. :)
Tour please.
Thanks for the request and checking out the video AO!
Here is a recent "fly around shallow dive into the trailer .... a quick-ish tour"
ua-cam.com/video/2phHxuSHcyQ/v-deo.html
And if you are still interested, here are a couple playlists of videos that have trailer tours and such. The "a la carte" series looks at specific areas of the trailer in shorter videos. The main trailer playlist has longer videos.
And....if you watch my most popular video (one of my first videos) be warned that I was real new to making videos and had no way to edit anything so my original tours are longer than need be and have comments and stories I would now edit out if I shot it today.
Hope you find something you like:
Playlists of mine
Trailer .......and then .........trailer a la carte
ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl9q3CylL-tKcP3KMVH2yF-_.html
ua-cam.com/play/PLIG9oMcYNIl_tbHTwk8lxiHLWcue0CrrC.html
i’ll buy it from you
Thanks for checking out the video! In a couple years I am planning on upgrading to an aluminum 8x12 trailer and building that out as a new SMART trailer. When I have that one completed, my current plan is to sell this one. The buildout would stay, only the tools and material would transfer to the new trailer. It is a while from now to be sure but when it happens, I will definitely put the word out to any interested party.
Its called a tool trailer not hardware store howany poeple3dont understand that. Each job should pay.for all.your hardware amd. Materials
Thanks for the comment! You are half right. It is indeed a tool trailer and jobs pay for fasteners. My trailer also has a decent and varied selection of hardware both common things like 16d nails and 2in drywall screws but I also have a lot of not often needed hardware like fender washers and mirror holders. My goal is to show up to jobs next notmhave to drop everything and head to Home Depot for two #6 x 1in pan head screws because the ones provided were missing or stripped out during installation. The “hardware store” in the trailer inspired by Ron Paulk and a number of other trailer-using contractors out there and how efficient it is to have it with me and not have to constantly worry that I remembered it for each job.
You would have more room with out the extra crap you carry
Howdy Krypto! Thanks for the comment and the observation. Indeed, if I carried fewer things, I would have more room. I carry what I use and what I would use for potential circumstances on jobs. Other than masonry, I am a one stop shop to do most things on a job site so I carry what I need to make the work happen and get a paycheck. If I specialized, you would be entirely spot on …. As if I were a trim carpenter for instance…..then I would need way fewer tools. Send me a link to your trailer videos and I can see how you have been able to streamline your contracting operation. Thanks!