I dont thing UV is a problem, ours has been in the sun for 4 years, still looks perfect. Im glad you used this for years before you did a video about how great it is. Larry
GREAT idea. I might add a protective siding on the forward side to protect from road debris flipping up to knock a hole in the right side of the tank. It looks like the underbelly of the tank is protected ok.
Great idea! One other thing to consider is the amount of road grime and silt/sand that can get into the wheel bushings on the tank when traveling underneath the trailer. Perhaps a wrap or covers for the wheels to protect them?
Honestly, it hasn't gotten all that dirty under there. The RV tires don't throw much forward and its too far back and protected to get anything sprayed up from the truck.
@@rvgearandfar i am actually having difficult trying to find this tire carrier in Canada, none on amazon that will ship, and both RV Places near me will not bring it in. But with that being said I might have a few ideas
I agree with you about the UV rays, so I use a Christmas Tree storage bag and some bungee cords to protect it. It looks like a tightly wrapped bundle on my back bumper.
This is awesome! I will have to make this. I do like your ammo box storage on the bumper. I u-bolted a double battery box on mine, and love the easy access to my black tank stuff.
make sure to put a little anti-seize on the thumb screw. I had one of those spare tire carriers and when I needed it, the thumb screw was stuck tight. Climbed under the RV to remove the tire, then had to drill out the screw when I got to my campsite.
This is actually a very practical idea. There is one small flaw I spotted though, the u-bolts coming up fro underneath, it they contact the tank they can eventually drill a hole in the plastic and cause leaks. As long as the tank isn't resting on any of them, perfect design. Mine hangs off the ladder, and being a 43' long 5th wheel, there is quite a bit of momentum back there and I am afraid the ladder may work loose, it's not really meant to carry anything on it and this idea may just do the trick for me.
Good spot. No, the tote does not touch where those bolts come through, but would absolutely be a point to consider when you decided WHERE to drill for those u-bolts. I made sure to place mine far enough forwards and backwards that they'd never come close to where the actual tote sits.
This is a great idea. I too hate seeing waste water totes hanging off the back of RV's. We stay mostly in full hook-up parks so a tote wouldn't be something we could use but if we did, I sure would consider using this mod.
Hmm, I love the idea but I'd want to build a custom mount to tuck the tank as high as possible, also that tire mount is pricey for what it is. I didn't know these existed, thank you for the video and now I have some ideas.
I'd love to see what you come up with! There are a ton of ways you could go with this, especially if you do it 100% custom instead of modifying off the shelf gear. Keep me updated!
I did not see how you secured it once you lift the BAL implement up into place with you tank on it. Loved the idea about putting a hitch pin in the bumper where the sewer hose is stored 💡
Fantastic ideas and execution. I plan to add some ammo boxes on the rear to hold similar sewer items out of the way. I think I have room for cans in front of our bike rack. I will check to see if I can get a tote under our fifth wheel around the current spare tire carrier and my sewer hose canister that I have under. Hope your channel does well.
I wish I could say the idea was original - but I'm sure I saw the concept on a a forum somewhere, I'm definitely not the first to do something like this - but thought it was helpful to show the steps and materials I used to accomplish the idea. Happy camping!
I have the same tote tank of the same capacity. I’ve heard that it’s not really advisable to hang them on the ladder as the long term stress can cause problems. I’ve thought about a bumper bracket but I’ve heard of problems from that as well. I’m going to have to take some measurements and definitely give this method some thought.
I've found it extremely helpful - a bit more work to get out that taking it off a ladder - but ultimately a better solution in my opinion if you can fit it. Although, significantly more expensive than the ladder mount.
I have done three videos on sewer totes, both the camco and the Barker, I am kind of obsessed with sewer totes. We have been full-time for almost 4 years and I store ours on the back of my bike rack but I’ve always been looking for a better solution. This is a genius idea adapting a current product for this purpose. I think it would be hard to get this to work on my fifth wheel because my clearance is so low, but I am going to do some measurements and check it out. Do yourself a favor and get the magnetic sewer caps from camco. They make setting up at the dump station fast as lightning. Lov your channel, you are on a fast start. Larry
You bring up a great talking point about the amount of gallons a tote holds. We elected to go with the 21 gallon tote because we often boondock in remote areas. As needed we can fill the tote, then Angie and I can lift it into the bed of our truck and take it to a dump station that is often miles away from where we are. When we are in a campground where we don't have sewer but there is a dump on site, I just hook onto it with my ebike, instead of having to fire up my truck. Just a couple things to consider. I love this idea Joshua excellent video. I have been wanting to so something similar for some time. Sean
Nice! I've seen a setup where a family took a hitch basket and mounted it to the front of the truck. Then placed this waste tote in that basket and used a macerator pump to fill it - then drove to the dump station that way! Thought it was a pretty sweet setup.
For the wastewater tote or the ammo cans? BAL 28218 Hide-A-Spare Tire Storage amzn.to/3rMQS8k 3/8 in. x 4 in. x 5 in. Zinc-Plated Square U-Bolt amzn.to/3Q904ht
Extension plates? Do you mean for the spare tire carrier? There are two different versions - a shallow one and a deeper one. If that's not what you're referring to, tell me more as I'm not tracking.
@rvgearandfar yes the spare tire carrier. I followed the link provided and it only shows the short mounting plates. I can't find the plates saperate or a complete kit with the long mounting plates as shown in your video. Thanks for any help
@@marnsmpfi Take a look down in the product dimensions and look at the specs - the photos are too similar to tell by that. I believe 28218 is the long ones and 2817 is the recessed version which will be shorter. Could always give BAL a call to verify the part number of the longest/deepest version
BROOOOO, GENIUS!!!!! You just getting to subscriber Beare for this video alone. Well done look forward to watching some of your content. / 2022 7 x 16 steel trailer converted to livable toy hauler
I take it your not worried that those spare tire bolts will puncture your sewer hose? Great ideas by the way!! One last thing at about 10:00 in to your video I saw what looked to be a gas line with a fitting at the end. First is that a gas line or air line? If it’s a gas line what type of fitting is at the end to take the another fitting.
The spare tire bolts are U-bolts, so they go around the bumper, not into it and therefore, no I have no concerns of puncturing my sewer hose. The quick connect is a propane line. It was installed from the factory for the bumper grill that came on our rig.
@@rvgearandfar Yes sir. I was actually talking about the spare tire bolts at 7:45 of your video that go through the bottom of the spare battery box and inside the box itself. Have you had any issues with puncturing the hose when it’s stored? Appreciate your response by the way!
Won't work on my 5R the frame is way too low to the ground. If it had an open frame maybe but it's enclosed a little speed bump will take it out. I had a custom rack 6" lift and hitch built (welded to the frame very well) for my rig that can hold a Big Honda 3000is generator a Ebike and the large tote, I was afraid it couldn't handle the weight on rough roads but I made it from Tennessee to Sturgis, then Quartzite and now in the Michigan Illinois area. It handled everything like a champ.😊
Great video. Can you share with me the link to the one that you actually use(enclosed underbelly). The Amazon link you have is for the shorter version.
The one linked is the one in my amazon order history and is for the underslung version. In the description it details that it’s for trailers with an enclosed underbelly.
I have a 2017 Wildwood 26TBSS (30' total length) and bought the BAL hide a spare (non-enclosed frame version) for my spare tire. However, when I went to install it just aft of the wheels it was going to be in the middle of my slide rails. Just forward of the wheels it'll be right around those same rails. Have you run into the same problem? Has it interfered with your slide at all? Have you had any issues with installing it near a propane line on the camp side of your frame? I have had it for a could years now and been hesitant to install because of these factors so I'm interested to hear your experience with the actual install.
I haven't personally run into this issue at all as there is several feet in front of my axles before the slide rail comes through the frame. I do have a propane line running along the frame rail and didn't have any issues with installation as the line runs at the bottom of the I beam and therefore didn't interfere when installing the bolts. My suggestion would be to mock up the installation - use several clamps on each side to attach the brackets to the frame and see how it functions - this would allow you to test clearances (put your slide in and out too!) and move it around to find the best solution - or to verify that it won't work and you can focus on alternatives with that knowledge
I'm sorry I haven't responded sooner - I'm currently traveling to some RV events away from my rv - and can't grab any measurements - I'm going to screenshot your question and reply with my measurements when I get back to the rig in a few weeks.
Got out the tape measure today - no 19 inches in front of the axle isn't going to be enough - you'd definitely run into the tire. From the axle to the front most part of the tote/carrier is 41 inches on my rig. And for reference my axles are 12.5" off the ground.
@rvgearandfar I don't have my trailer it's in storage. I have no idea where I got the 19" from tire. I will check in the spring. To bad I couldn't post a picture.
I have a two wheel tote and rigged my bicycle with a 1” ball to drag it to the dump station. It’s ugly, but functional. I love this idea, but I don’t think it would work on my class c. But this is still cool.
New subscriber, I actually thought about doing this but I was worried running over ripped up truck tires laying on the road and popping a hole in my tank. Plus my belly sits to low. I might try building some sort of box to protect the tank.
i would be far more worried about my motors oil pan, or the transmission pan, the steering linkage, and such than a spare tire or honey tote. but this is why you must NEVER tailgate anyone. give yourself room to live. as a commercial truck drive for over 40 years. (now retired). stay away from big trucks for more than a tire blowing up. please do not cut us off, and give us room to stop before we hit you from behind.
@@larryjanson4011 I as well a retired truck driver over 40 years and almost 40 years having my CDL licenses. I one of few do not tailgate but it’s hard to see ripped up tires on the road at night time. I drive at night due too very low traffic. The last thing I worry about is my oil pan getting hit by something on the road, Really!
Nice idea! 2 years full time and only 17k miles? you are rather stationary. we only get to travel for summer/winter breaks and weekends, we average 12k a year in our 33ft fifth wheel. I only have 7 years to get all 51 CONUS National parks done before my oldest graduates Highschool. we have 6 down... 45 to go! (we are east coast so hard to hit the concentrated west coast states. Have fun on your travels!
I think your under carriage storage idea is clever, but I'd be concerned about diminished clearance. I looked around and found a low profile 62 gallon rv black tank from Rec Pro-Restore Your RV. It measures 60L x 36W x 8 3/8 D. The axle will actually be quite a bit lower than the tank. My buddy and I are planning/fabricating a system to (very) secure the tank and feed the original black and gray tanks into this one. If it's too complicated I may just use a macerator pump to move waste/water from the original tanks to the added tank. However it works out, even though there's good clearance, the leading edge will be protected by galvanized sheet metal. I'll then have the original 30 gallon fresh water, supplemented with a 60 gallon fresh water bladder (bed of pick up), and the original two 30 gallon gray and black tanks. If all works out, I'll have a total of 90 gallons fresh and 120 gallon gray/black capacity. Thx, your clever idea was a great inspiration.
I have had zero clearance issues in 2 years and over 18,000 miles. So you’re adding another holding tank? Doesn’t sound like its portable- why not just install it and plumbing it in like the other waste-tanks between the frame?
@@rvgearandfar It's still a work in progress, planning stage actually. I don't have your experience/expertise in these matters. I'm not quite sure I can configure the plumbing to safely and securely move the gray and black to the extra tank. Portability isn't a big issue for me, I like to boondock and stay in one place/area for 2 weeks. I'm thinking I can basically fill the 2 original tanks, use a macerator pump to dump into the extra tank, then refill the 2 originals. I can then dump all 3 tanks when I hit the 2 week limit on BLM land. I travel alone, so when I'm in an LTVA, I may be able to stay in one place for 3 or more weeks.
@@Justmakingobservations I think an easier and more flexible option would be to use the macerator to pump the onboard tanks up into the truck bed into a portable tank. I've even seen folks use one of those hitch baskets off the front of the truck and place the portable tank there instead of in the bed. Adding a whole extra waste tank - full - eats up a TON of cargo capacity on your rig and if you'd then potentially be driving with 3 full waste tanks -- in my opinion you're asking for trouble and some part of it will fail - suspension etc.
@@rvgearandfar As I said, this is a work/plan in progress. You're right about the cargo weight limitations, so now I'm thinking of a 30, not 60 gallon extra tank. But that's almost beside the point. My goal is to stay off grid comfortably for at least 2-3 weeks; 2 weeks being the BLM/National Forest limit. I'm enjoying the engineering challenge, but it's taking me down a rabbit hole. Now, in addition to the extra black tank, I'm trying to figure out a way that I can reuse gray water to flush the toilet, thus preserving my fresh water supply. As it is now, when I go off grid, I return with an empty fresh, a full gray and a full black. But, if I add the extra black tank, and re-use the gray water, I’m leaving with an empty fresh, an empty gray and 2 full black tanks. Same amount of fresh, but by re-using the gray, I’m extending my stay without adding too much extra weight BTW, I've checked with both the BLM and the National Forest Service, they actually allow the dumping of gray water in dispersed camping areas, as long as it's more than 200 feet from a fresh water supply. It's state laws that prevent it; Nevada, Wyoming and Montana actually allow dumping gray water in dispersed camping areas. I haven't checked other states, but that's not something I want to do. One Ranger I asked replied, "Of course, just put up a privacy tent and shower outside." Like I said, my goal is to stay comfortably off grid for as long as legal, reusing gray water to flush toilets preserves fresh water, and I'm enjoying the engineering challenge. Happy travels.
Cool idea but looks like you could have done the one with less clearance as looks like it hangs down 3 or 4 inches of empty space between the tote and bottom of the rv
Its Swagman bike racks on Yakima crossbars and towers attached to DeeZee Siderails and a GatorTrax retractable tonneau. Works well and I've got a video coming up soon about how we carry our bikes ◡̈
I looked into BAL and they don’t seem to do retail sales to the public. Who did you buy your carrier through? Great idea though I would like to it to my rig.
You can find them on Amazon ◡̈ Here is an affiliate link if you'd like to check it out: amzn.to/44OSE7R Otherwise search "BAL 28218 Hide A Spare Tire Storage" and you should come up with the item! Happy Camping!
Haven’t heard or seen anyone do that- I’d bet going 8” long front to back you’d bottom out on the boat at some point while traveling - most likely in/out of a fuel station
A tire and the tote would most likely be over the weight limit. Depending on how your undercarriage is setup up might be able to install two of them - one for the tote and one for the tire. Or look into mounting one at the bumper
UV going to make tote brittle? Over what time period? Guaranteed that tote sitting in full sun will outlast the length of time most RV owners own their RV.
I dont do social media, but if you can otherwise tell me where and how to do it (without agreeing to another privacy policy) i would be glad to post some pictures
Let me just try to explain it instead of getting my lawyer involved in reviewing privacy policies. Yes, I'm a conspiracy theorist. NOTE: My trailer has a belly pan from the front of the trailer that covers all the tanks but stops at the axles. I mounted the tank rack just behind the rear axle. This allowed the tank to occupy the 8" of space between the bottom of the frame rails and the bottom of the trailer floor structure. I'm not sure this idea would work if the belly pan went the full length - the ladder would hang down awfully low. My steps: 1. Retrieved a bent aluminum extension ladder my neighbor was throwing away. 2. Cut out a section of ladder long enough to go from the outside of the trailer frame I beam from side to side. I cut out every other ladder rung to reduce weight. ALuminum ladders are incredibly stiff. 3. On the drivers side of trailer I drilled holes in the frame i-beam flange to mount two 3/8" eye bolts the width of ladder. I also mounted matching eye bolts to both rails on one end of the ladder. They were placed so the ladder eye bolts aligned with the frame eye bolts. Place a short 1/2" bolt thru the two eye bolts and it forms a hinge. 4. on the passenger side of the trailer I drilled one hole in the frame flange and tapped it to 3/8" NC. I fabricated a U-shaped bracket out of 3/16" x 2" flat stock the width of the ladder, and used a threaded rod with a handle welded on the end to secure the U shaped bracket to the frame with the end of the ladder captured in-between. In operation, the ladder "rack" will drop down to the ground on the passenger side as it pivots about the eye bolts on the drivers side. This allows easy access to the sewage wagon (mine 27-28 gallons) which is incredibly bulky and heavy, just slide it up or down the incline now formed by the ladder rack. The only other challenge is to secure the buggy to the ladder. The tank wheels straddled the ladder rails, so I used some wall mount J hooks from a big box store to capture the tank axle when the tank was pushed up against the J hooks on the drivers side. I used bunge to secure the other end to the ladder. The rack system weighed 28 lbs not counting the buggy. All you could see from the side was the ends of a ladder up against bottom of the frame.
Great idea for your particular rig. Now we no long have to stare at your sewer can strapped to your ladder while we drive down the road behind you. Lol We also use the plastic ammo cans……for carrying backup plumbing and electrical parts as well as miscellaneous screws, etc. They seal, are light weight and overall convenient.
We have used the ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y for probably 30 hours with our camper and it’s been great! The noise level is really only noticeable when running the AC and other appliances like the microwave, hair dryer, or coffee pot. It’s not huge like other ones and it has wheels so even at 90lbs, I can move it!
in all of my years (single male), i have never found a need for a tote. but then i also boondock. up to three weeks without moving on. within 10 miles of were i home base. there is a core of army lake, so almost free dumping. and lots of "other" places i pass by that offer dumping. (free if you buy fuel). but it does look very ghetto having that honey bucket hanging on the back. and i have been told those ladders are not all that well bolted up on the end of a rv. but i personally have not see a ladder fall off. and if it can hold my 220 pounds. maybe if i can ever afford a new rv? mine is now 23 years old, and going strong.
Thats awesome that you've been able to work around without one - they are incredibly helpful when they are, and a pain to deal with when they're not necessary ◡̈
Nope. And I'm not the first to do this type of thing - just wanted to share HOW I accomplished it. The storage idea is not original as I've seen other versions floating around the interwebs
🏘 *Join the RV Gear & Far Group Here:* www.rvgearandfar.com/rvgfyt ⭐🌟 *Check out ALL the products and gear we recommend here:* ⭐🌟 📦 www.amazon.com/shop/rvgearandfar 📦 ⭐⭐ *Examples of Products Used In This Video* ⭐⭐ 🔷BAL 28218 Hide-A-Spare Tire Storage amzn.to/3rMQS8k 🔷Rhino 28 gal Tote with Tongue & Wheels amzn.to/44CILd9 🔷Rhino 28 gal Tote amzn.to/3Y6uvXW 🔷Rhino Wheel & Tongue Kit amzn.to/3Y0au5f 🔷Wire Lock Pin 2 Inch amzn.to/3Dsb7uE 🔷3/8 in. x 4 in. x 5 in. Zinc-Plated Square U-Bolt amzn.to/3Q904ht 🔷Plastic Ammo Can www.harborfreight.com/050-caliber-ammo-box-57766.html 🔷XL Large Plastic Ammo Can (Fits Spray Paint Cans) www.harborfreight.com/tactical-ammoutility-box-64113.html *_DISCLAIMER_*_ We participate in several affiliate programs that earn us a commission on purchases made through our links at no extra cost to you!_ _Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we will receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases._
This is a great idea for the tote. But those totes are problematic. Stop pulling the tote by hand or by your truck. Put the tote in the bed of your truck and use a macerator and garden hose to fill the tank. No dragging 200+ lbs of water along your trailer and you can drive at normal speed to the dump site without damaging its wheels.
Internal waste tanks are stored underneath - this is a portable version- to use when you're not close to a dump station - so this is in addition to what an RV comes with.
Actually, that is not true. Sewage is a mix of solids and urine(Sterile). A compost toilet that separates the two, and keeps them separate, eliminates the creation of sewage in the first place. Thus, eliminating the hazards . Dump the urine , dump the solids(compost), separately, far less mess and hazards. @@Elizabeth-rq1vi
I hear you on empty tote’ing. But how unrealistic would it be to rig up a 15 gallon tote that contains 12 gallons of wastewater? Just under the 100lb mark if one assumes 8lb per gallon. The small tote would put it over, of course. But not by much I imagine.
I think it'd be too much dynamic weight in one spot - the liquid would slosh and the whole thing would be like a little kid spinning a necklace between both hands with a heavy weight in the middle.
@@rvgearandfar on the ladder, but now I have a toy hauler and the ladder is on the side I have my brother carry it on his motorcoach. I realize that it's better for me if I have a pump service come out once every week if I don't have full hook ups.
I dont thing UV is a problem, ours has been in the sun for 4 years, still looks perfect. Im glad you used this for years before you did a video about how great it is. Larry
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment on so many videos Larry!
GREAT idea. I might add a protective siding on the forward side to protect from road debris flipping up to knock a hole in the right side of the tank. It looks like the underbelly of the tank is protected ok.
Totally could - haven't done it myself and haven't noticed any issues except for dirt
Brilliant idea for the ammo cans on the bumper! I am heading to HF now to get this done. Thank you.
Its super helpful for sure, enjoy!
I sent an email to BAL about 12 years ago to do that very same thing! Great job !
Maybe we can get enough momentum behind it now for a new product!
this is fantastic one of the best DIY projects for RVer's I have ever seen! well done!!
Thanks! Its been helpful - hopefully others can adapt it to fit their needs.
Great idea! I love people who think out of the box! Thank you!
You are so welcome!
Great idea! One other thing to consider is the amount of road grime and silt/sand that can get into the wheel bushings on the tank when traveling underneath the trailer. Perhaps a wrap or covers for the wheels to protect them?
Honestly, it hasn't gotten all that dirty under there. The RV tires don't throw much forward and its too far back and protected to get anything sprayed up from the truck.
Great idea. Don't have a ladder on my wolf pup & kinda needed a storage idea for the portable blk tank. I'll look into this idea now!
😎 Hope it works out for you!
Wow I like this, I normally have my 36 gallon tote in the back of the truck. I am going to look into this now
I'd be really curious to know if the big 36 will work with this setup - if you try it out let me know!
@@rvgearandfar i am actually having difficult trying to find this tire carrier in Canada, none on amazon that will ship, and both RV Places near me will not bring it in. But with that being said I might have a few ideas
I agree with you about the UV rays, so I use a Christmas Tree storage bag and some bungee cords to protect it. It looks like a tightly wrapped bundle on my back bumper.
Nice!
This is awesome! I will have to make this. I do like your ammo box storage on the bumper. I u-bolted a double battery box on mine, and love the easy access to my black tank stuff.
Battery box is great idea! Do you use the strap to keep it shut?
@@rvgearandfar I do, I use 2 straps.
make sure to put a little anti-seize on the thumb screw. I had one of those spare tire carriers and when I needed it, the thumb screw was stuck tight. Climbed under the RV to remove the tire, then had to drill out the screw when I got to my campsite.
GREAT tip, I'm going to go spritz a little penetrating oil on mine right now!
This is actually a very practical idea. There is one small flaw I spotted though, the u-bolts coming up fro underneath, it they contact the tank they can eventually drill a hole in the plastic and cause leaks. As long as the tank isn't resting on any of them, perfect design. Mine hangs off the ladder, and being a 43' long 5th wheel, there is quite a bit of momentum back there and I am afraid the ladder may work loose, it's not really meant to carry anything on it and this idea may just do the trick for me.
Good spot. No, the tote does not touch where those bolts come through, but would absolutely be a point to consider when you decided WHERE to drill for those u-bolts. I made sure to place mine far enough forwards and backwards that they'd never come close to where the actual tote sits.
This is a great idea. I too hate seeing waste water totes hanging off the back of RV's. We stay mostly in full hook-up parks so a tote wouldn't be something we could use but if we did, I sure would consider using this mod.
That and its out of the sun! Thanks for watching ◡̈
Hmm, I love the idea but I'd want to build a custom mount to tuck the tank as high as possible, also that tire mount is pricey for what it is. I didn't know these existed, thank you for the video and now I have some ideas.
I'd love to see what you come up with! There are a ton of ways you could go with this, especially if you do it 100% custom instead of modifying off the shelf gear. Keep me updated!
I did not see how you secured it once you lift the BAL implement up into place with you tank on it. Loved the idea about putting a hitch pin in the bumper where the sewer hose is stored 💡
There is a screw in bolt with a safety cotterpin to hold that bolt in place and prevents it from backing out.
@@rvgearandfar awesome, thanks for such a quick response. I subscribed right after I watched your video 😁
This is genius! Thank you for sharing! I will need to see how it fits with my enclosed underbelly.
You’re welcome! I wish I had a spare RV with an underbelly to be able to test it for yall! Let me know if you try it out
Fantastic ideas and execution. I plan to add some ammo boxes on the rear to hold similar sewer items out of the way. I think I have room for cans in front of our bike rack. I will check to see if I can get a tote under our fifth wheel around the current spare tire carrier and my sewer hose canister that I have under. Hope your channel does well.
I also have a 5th wheel. Mine has enclosed undercarriage. Think this is very good idea as I don't have bumper or ladder on my Cougar Sport
Much appreciated, thank you!
Pretty cool idea. I like it when people think outside the box.
I wish I could say the idea was original - but I'm sure I saw the concept on a a forum somewhere, I'm definitely not the first to do something like this - but thought it was helpful to show the steps and materials I used to accomplish the idea. Happy camping!
Great video!! I carry a portable tank on a hitch style carrier attached to the rear bumper of the camper. Your solution is awesome!!
Thats a super versatile way to do it! Add a front receiver to your truck and with a macerator pump you could have a mobile dump truck!
Great ideas! Don’t think it will work with my class A but it would have on my old 5th wheel!
True. Where do you store the tote on/in your Class A?
Dude this is great!!! I have a tank that I can’t hang because it doesn’t have the hook for it and I hate putting it on the back of the truck.
Its worked well for me- hopefully your setup pans out that it’ll work for you too!
Great idea, we just picked up a 41 gallon toot-tank. I was thinking about building something similar for ours.
Let us know if you get it to fit! Ours is 28 gallons
I have the same tote tank of the same capacity. I’ve heard that it’s not really advisable to hang them on the ladder as the long term stress can cause problems. I’ve thought about a bumper bracket but I’ve heard of problems from that as well. I’m going to have to take some measurements and definitely give this method some thought.
Its definitely worked well for me if you have the room
I like this idea, I was thinking of the ladder but I might do this instead.
I've found it extremely helpful - a bit more work to get out that taking it off a ladder - but ultimately a better solution in my opinion if you can fit it. Although, significantly more expensive than the ladder mount.
Thanks for sharing! Subscribed! Very Clever. I carry mine in the bed of the truck but if I was full-time, this is prime space.
Welcome aboard!
I have done three videos on sewer totes, both the camco and the Barker, I am kind of obsessed with sewer totes. We have been full-time for almost 4 years and I store ours on the back of my bike rack but I’ve always been looking for a better solution. This is a genius idea adapting a current product for this purpose. I think it would be hard to get this to work on my fifth wheel because my clearance is so low, but I am going to do some measurements and check it out. Do yourself a favor and get the magnetic sewer caps from camco. They make setting up at the dump station fast as lightning. Lov your channel, you are on a fast start. Larry
Thanks! I've seen the camco magnetic bumpers but haven't tried them out - you've found the magnet to be strong enough I assume?
Good idea. We have the 21 gallon option but we are lucky to have a lot of storage on our trailer we just store in one of our storage spaces.
Dang that sounds like a ton of storage - what is your RV?
You bring up a great talking point about the amount of gallons a tote holds. We elected to go with the 21 gallon tote because we often boondock in remote areas. As needed we can fill the tote, then Angie and I can lift it into the bed of our truck and take it to a dump station that is often miles away from where we are. When we are in a campground where we don't have sewer but there is a dump on site, I just hook onto it with my ebike, instead of having to fire up my truck. Just a couple things to consider. I love this idea Joshua excellent video. I have been wanting to so something similar for some time. Sean
Nice! I've seen a setup where a family took a hitch basket and mounted it to the front of the truck. Then placed this waste tote in that basket and used a macerator pump to fill it - then drove to the dump station that way! Thought it was a pretty sweet setup.
It's a great option, where did you get those brackets?
For the wastewater tote or the ammo cans?
BAL 28218 Hide-A-Spare Tire Storage amzn.to/3rMQS8k
3/8 in. x 4 in. x 5 in. Zinc-Plated Square U-Bolt amzn.to/3Q904ht
Like your idea. Applying wax to the poles should reduce the friction considerably.
Great idea!
Great idea, I might try this, at present mine is strapped to the front beside my battery..
Sounds like a big space up there -nice!
Very clever! Very well explained too.
Much appreciated!
Love these kind of videos, good job.
Glad you enjoyed! Welcome aboard!
Great idea! Love the innovation that you put into this!
Thanks so much!
Great idea! Going to look and see if this is a solution to carrying mine. Thank you for the content :)
Absolutely, Thanks for watching!
So practical and clean
It is! Wish there was a commercial version available for every towable.
Love the idea. Where are the extention plates? Followed your link, but nothing on the plates.
Extension plates? Do you mean for the spare tire carrier? There are two different versions - a shallow one and a deeper one. If that's not what you're referring to, tell me more as I'm not tracking.
@rvgearandfar yes the spare tire carrier. I followed the link provided and it only shows the short mounting plates. I can't find the plates saperate or a complete kit with the long mounting plates as shown in your video.
Thanks for any help
@@marnsmpfi Take a look down in the product dimensions and look at the specs - the photos are too similar to tell by that. I believe 28218 is the long ones and 2817 is the recessed version which will be shorter. Could always give BAL a call to verify the part number of the longest/deepest version
10:43 I was thinking 🤔 the same thing… cut the bracket and Hinge it 😮
👍
Brilliant!
Hope you found it helpful!
You should share this video with the tire rack company. It would be easy for them to make ones for rv's.
Agreed, it would require very little modification to get a product out of the box for this application.
BROOOOO, GENIUS!!!!! You just getting to subscriber Beare for this video alone. Well done look forward to watching some of your content. / 2022 7 x 16 steel trailer converted to livable toy hauler
Glad you found some value in it - welcome aboard!
Great mods and a very well put together video. Subscribed thank you
Much appreciated! Welcome aboard
BRILLIANT!
Hope it was helpful!
What is the BAL model # you are using?
🔷BAL 28218 Hide-A-Spare Tire Storage geni.us/YAVjsK (Amazon)
I take it your not worried that those spare tire bolts will puncture your sewer hose?
Great ideas by the way!!
One last thing at about 10:00 in to your video I saw what looked to be a gas line with a fitting at the end. First is that a gas line or air line? If it’s a gas line what type of fitting is at the end to take the another fitting.
The spare tire bolts are U-bolts, so they go around the bumper, not into it and therefore, no I have no concerns of puncturing my sewer hose.
The quick connect is a propane line. It was installed from the factory for the bumper grill that came on our rig.
@@rvgearandfar Yes sir. I was actually talking about the spare tire bolts at 7:45 of your video that go through the bottom of the spare battery box and inside the box itself. Have you had any issues with puncturing the hose when it’s stored?
Appreciate your response by the way!
@@KnuckleDragginDad Just saw this reply - sorry! Nope - haven't had any issues with the bolts in the box to store the accessories :)
Wonder if that works on a class c rv
Highly doubt it - they tend to sit much lower than trailers.
Won't work on my 5R the frame is way too low to the ground. If it had an open frame maybe but it's enclosed a little speed bump will take it out. I had a custom rack 6" lift and hitch built (welded to the frame very well) for my rig that can hold a Big Honda 3000is generator a Ebike and the large tote, I was afraid it couldn't handle the weight on rough roads but I made it from Tennessee to Sturgis, then Quartzite and now in the Michigan Illinois area. It handled everything like a champ.😊
Sounds like a nice mod!
While I am no expert, would drilling holes into the frame affect any warranties?
You'd have to refer to each warranty specifically.
What a great mod!
I agree!
Great video. Can you share with me the link to the one that you actually use(enclosed underbelly). The Amazon link you have is for the shorter version.
The one linked is the one in my amazon order history and is for the underslung version. In the description it details that it’s for trailers with an enclosed underbelly.
Ok.. quick question..
What are you doing with the tow bar? Did you just use a hitch pin instead of the bolt and nylock?
The tow bar on the tote? Yeah it came with a removable pin so I just take it off and store it in the pass through until I need it.
I'll have to switch mine over, it has a bolt and nylock.
I have a 2017 Wildwood 26TBSS (30' total length) and bought the BAL hide a spare (non-enclosed frame version) for my spare tire. However, when I went to install it just aft of the wheels it was going to be in the middle of my slide rails. Just forward of the wheels it'll be right around those same rails.
Have you run into the same problem? Has it interfered with your slide at all?
Have you had any issues with installing it near a propane line on the camp side of your frame?
I have had it for a could years now and been hesitant to install because of these factors so I'm interested to hear your experience with the actual install.
I haven't personally run into this issue at all as there is several feet in front of my axles before the slide rail comes through the frame.
I do have a propane line running along the frame rail and didn't have any issues with installation as the line runs at the bottom of the I beam and therefore didn't interfere when installing the bolts.
My suggestion would be to mock up the installation - use several clamps on each side to attach the brackets to the frame and see how it functions - this would allow you to test clearances (put your slide in and out too!) and move it around to find the best solution - or to verify that it won't work and you can focus on alternatives with that knowledge
@rvgearandfar thanks for the recommendation.
I have 19 inches in front of axle and not enclosed under. Would this work? Axles are at 12" from ground
I'm sorry I haven't responded sooner - I'm currently traveling to some RV events away from my rv - and can't grab any measurements - I'm going to screenshot your question and reply with my measurements when I get back to the rig in a few weeks.
Got out the tape measure today - no 19 inches in front of the axle isn't going to be enough - you'd definitely run into the tire. From the axle to the front most part of the tote/carrier is 41 inches on my rig. And for reference my axles are 12.5" off the ground.
@rvgearandfar I don't have my trailer it's in storage. I have no idea where I got the 19" from tire. I will check in the spring. To bad I couldn't post a picture.
Great idea
Thanks! Its worked well for us.
I have a two wheel tote and rigged my bicycle with a 1” ball to drag it to the dump station. It’s ugly, but functional.
I love this idea, but I don’t think it would work on my class c. But this is still cool.
Probably wouldn't work well on a motorhome - the bike drag sounds pretty cool though!
Genius!😊
How it give you some inspiration!
great idea
Thank you! Cheers!
By drilling into your frame, doesn't that void your warranty?
I can't comment on that - you'll have to reach out to your specific manufacturer on their warranty requirements.
New subscriber, I actually thought about doing this but I was worried running over ripped up truck tires laying on the road and popping a hole in my tank. Plus my belly sits to low. I might try building some sort of box to protect the tank.
Do you run over ripped up truck tires often...?
i would be far more worried about my motors oil pan, or the transmission pan, the steering linkage, and such than a spare tire or honey tote.
but this is why you must NEVER tailgate anyone. give yourself room to live.
as a commercial truck drive for over 40 years. (now retired). stay away from big trucks for more than a tire blowing up. please do not cut us off, and give us room to stop before we hit you from behind.
@@larryjanson4011 I as well a retired truck driver over 40 years and almost 40 years having my CDL licenses. I one of few do not tailgate but it’s hard to see ripped up tires on the road at night time. I drive at night due too very low traffic. The last thing I worry about is my oil pan getting hit by something on the road, Really!
Great idea!
I think so too! Welcome!
Nice idea! 2 years full time and only 17k miles? you are rather stationary. we only get to travel for summer/winter breaks and weekends, we average 12k a year in our 33ft fifth wheel. I only have 7 years to get all 51 CONUS National parks done before my oldest graduates Highschool. we have 6 down... 45 to go! (we are east coast so hard to hit the concentrated west coast states. Have fun on your travels!
We average about 3 weeks in a place. My definition of "stationary" would be in a single place for more than 3 months at a time.
I think your under carriage storage idea is clever, but I'd be concerned about diminished clearance. I looked around and found a low profile 62 gallon rv black tank from Rec Pro-Restore Your RV. It measures 60L x 36W x 8 3/8 D. The axle will actually be quite a bit lower than the tank. My buddy and I are planning/fabricating a system to (very) secure the tank and feed the original black and gray tanks into this one. If it's too complicated I may just use a macerator pump to move waste/water from the original tanks to the added tank. However it works out, even though there's good clearance, the leading edge will be protected by galvanized sheet metal. I'll then have the original 30 gallon fresh water, supplemented with a 60 gallon fresh water bladder (bed of pick up), and the original two 30 gallon gray and black tanks. If all works out, I'll have a total of 90 gallons fresh and 120 gallon gray/black capacity. Thx, your clever idea was a great inspiration.
I have had zero clearance issues in 2 years and over 18,000 miles.
So you’re adding another holding tank? Doesn’t sound like its portable- why not just install it and plumbing it in like the other waste-tanks between the frame?
@@rvgearandfar It's still a work in progress, planning stage actually. I don't have your experience/expertise in these matters. I'm not quite sure I can configure the plumbing to safely and securely move the gray and black to the extra tank. Portability isn't a big issue for me, I like to boondock and stay in one place/area for 2 weeks. I'm thinking I can basically fill the 2 original tanks, use a macerator pump to dump into the extra tank, then refill the 2 originals. I can then dump all 3 tanks when I hit the 2 week limit on BLM land. I travel alone, so when I'm in an LTVA, I may be able to stay in one place for 3 or more weeks.
@@Justmakingobservations I think an easier and more flexible option would be to use the macerator to pump the onboard tanks up into the truck bed into a portable tank. I've even seen folks use one of those hitch baskets off the front of the truck and place the portable tank there instead of in the bed. Adding a whole extra waste tank - full - eats up a TON of cargo capacity on your rig and if you'd then potentially be driving with 3 full waste tanks -- in my opinion you're asking for trouble and some part of it will fail - suspension etc.
@@rvgearandfar As I said, this is a work/plan in progress. You're right about the cargo weight limitations, so now I'm thinking of a 30, not 60 gallon extra tank. But that's almost beside the point. My goal is to stay off grid comfortably for at least 2-3 weeks; 2 weeks being the BLM/National Forest limit. I'm enjoying the engineering challenge, but it's taking me down a rabbit hole. Now, in addition to the extra black tank, I'm trying to figure out a way that I can reuse gray water to flush the toilet, thus preserving my fresh water supply.
As it is now, when I go off grid, I return with an empty fresh, a full gray and a full black. But, if I add the extra black tank, and re-use the gray water, I’m leaving with an empty fresh, an empty gray and 2 full black tanks. Same amount of fresh, but by re-using the gray, I’m extending my stay without adding too much extra weight
BTW, I've checked with both the BLM and the National Forest Service, they actually allow the dumping of gray water in dispersed camping areas, as long as it's more than 200 feet from a fresh water supply. It's state laws that prevent it; Nevada, Wyoming and Montana actually allow dumping gray water in dispersed camping areas. I haven't checked other states, but that's not something I want to do. One Ranger I asked replied, "Of course, just put up a privacy tent and shower outside." Like I said, my goal is to stay comfortably off grid for as long as legal, reusing gray water to flush toilets preserves fresh water, and I'm enjoying the engineering challenge. Happy travels.
@@Justmakingobservations Sounds like you're enjoying the problem solving scenario! Love it ◡̈
Cool idea but looks like you could have done the one with less clearance as looks like it hangs down 3 or 4 inches of empty space between the tote and bottom of the rv
Possibly, but at that point I'd have to pay to ship it back and it wasn't worth it. I've never had any clearance issues as it is right now.
Awesome
Happy Camping!
Off topic, but what brand is that rack in the truck bed for your bike?
Its Swagman bike racks on Yakima crossbars and towers attached to DeeZee Siderails and a GatorTrax retractable tonneau. Works well and I've got a video coming up soon about how we carry our bikes ◡̈
Can these tanks take beating from road rocks and other things that may hit it. I rather buy it my truck bed
I looked into BAL and they don’t seem to do retail sales to the public. Who did you buy your carrier through? Great idea though I would like to it to my rig.
You can find them on Amazon ◡̈ Here is an affiliate link if you'd like to check it out: amzn.to/44OSE7R Otherwise search "BAL 28218 Hide A Spare Tire Storage" and you should come up with the item! Happy Camping!
Great job god bless
Happy Camping!
Has anybody used 2 of these spread apart maybe 8' to carry a kayak ?
Haven’t heard or seen anyone do that- I’d bet going 8” long front to back you’d bottom out on the boat at some point while traveling - most likely in/out of a fuel station
Great video !
Thanks!
Could I do a tire and the tote? Need to find someone that would do this for me I would be worry I drill the wrong thing.
A tire and the tote would most likely be over the weight limit. Depending on how your undercarriage is setup up might be able to install two of them - one for the tote and one for the tire. Or look into mounting one at the bumper
Genius
Thanks for watching!
Good job! Subbed!
Welcome aboard!
UV going to make tote brittle? Over what time period? Guaranteed that tote sitting in full sun will outlast the length of time most RV owners own their RV.
Too many variables- is it on a ladder rack facing south in Texas? Or under a shaded tree in Northern Michigan?
I built one of these out of a section of aluminum ladder 8 years ago. Much lighter.
I love that idea! Do you have photos posted anywhere? I'd love to take a look at how you rigged it up.
Me too, please
I dont do social media, but if you can otherwise tell me where and how to do it (without agreeing to another privacy policy) i would be glad to post some pictures
Let me just try to explain it instead of getting my lawyer involved in reviewing privacy policies. Yes, I'm a conspiracy theorist.
NOTE: My trailer has a belly pan from the front of the trailer that covers all the tanks but stops at the axles. I mounted the tank rack just behind the rear axle. This allowed the tank to occupy the 8" of space between the bottom of the frame rails and the bottom of the trailer floor structure. I'm not sure this idea would work if the belly pan went the full length - the ladder would hang down awfully low.
My steps:
1. Retrieved a bent aluminum extension ladder my neighbor was throwing away.
2. Cut out a section of ladder long enough to go from the outside of the trailer frame I beam from side to side. I cut out every other ladder rung to reduce weight. ALuminum ladders are incredibly stiff.
3. On the drivers side of trailer I drilled holes in the frame i-beam flange to mount two 3/8" eye bolts the width of ladder. I also mounted matching eye bolts to both rails on one end of the ladder. They were placed so the ladder eye bolts aligned with the frame eye bolts. Place a short 1/2" bolt thru the two eye bolts and it forms a hinge.
4. on the passenger side of the trailer I drilled one hole in the frame flange and tapped it to 3/8" NC. I fabricated a U-shaped bracket out of 3/16" x 2" flat stock the width of the ladder, and used a threaded rod with a handle welded on the end to secure the U shaped bracket to the frame with the end of the ladder captured in-between.
In operation, the ladder "rack" will drop down to the ground on the passenger side as it pivots about the eye bolts on the drivers side. This allows easy access to the sewage wagon (mine 27-28 gallons) which is incredibly bulky and heavy, just slide it up or down the incline now formed by the ladder rack.
The only other challenge is to secure the buggy to the ladder. The tank wheels straddled the ladder rails, so I used some wall mount J hooks from a big box store to capture the tank axle when the tank was pushed up against the J hooks on the drivers side. I used bunge to secure the other end to the ladder. The rack system weighed 28 lbs not counting the buggy. All you could see from the side was the ends of a ladder up against bottom of the frame.
The problem with Camco tote tanks is the wheels (wheels are from China) will break or the tank will split at the seams.... Good luck.
Thanks! We've had this tote and used it for a little over two years now and haven't had any issues. Which brand of tote do you like the best?
I just put it in my pickup truck bed.
👍
Great idea! If you put it behind the axle it will get pelted with stones and covered in mud…
Definitely more likely than in front of them!
Great idea for your particular rig. Now we no long have to stare at your sewer can strapped to your ladder while we drive down the road behind you. Lol We also use the plastic ammo cans……for carrying backup plumbing and electrical parts as well as miscellaneous screws, etc. They seal, are light weight and overall convenient.
The plastic ammo cans are handy little containers aren't they!
We have used the ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxOTeIs0vv4_9B5hsmnLsk9r930uDQLu_Y for probably 30 hours with our camper and it’s been great! The noise level is really only noticeable when running the AC and other appliances like the microwave, hair dryer, or coffee pot. It’s not huge like other ones and it has wheels so even at 90lbs, I can move it!
Which part worked right out of the box?
in all of my years (single male), i have never found a need for a tote. but then i also boondock.
up to three weeks without moving on.
within 10 miles of were i home base. there is a core of army lake, so almost free dumping.
and lots of "other" places i pass by that offer dumping. (free if you buy fuel).
but it does look very ghetto having that honey bucket hanging on the back.
and i have been told those ladders are not all that well bolted up on the end of a rv. but i personally have not see a ladder fall off. and if it can hold my 220 pounds.
maybe if i can ever afford a new rv? mine is now 23 years old, and going strong.
Thats awesome that you've been able to work around without one - they are incredibly helpful when they are, and a pain to deal with when they're not necessary ◡̈
Have you tried to either patent or sell your idea /design?
Nope. And I'm not the first to do this type of thing - just wanted to share HOW I accomplished it. The storage idea is not original as I've seen other versions floating around the interwebs
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This is a great idea for the tote. But those totes are problematic. Stop pulling the tote by hand or by your truck. Put the tote in the bed of your truck and use a macerator and garden hose to fill the tank. No dragging 200+ lbs of water along your trailer and you can drive at normal speed to the dump site without damaging its wheels.
Macerator is a great additional piece of gear.
Anyone with a class A do this? 2021 Fleetwood Bounder 36f
I've not had anyone with a Class A comment back that they did this
Well I didn't know I needed another project until now😅
Bahahaha sorry, not sorry! 🤣
save your money
Seriously? I don't own an RV and don't know much about them, but I always assumed this was how the sewer tote was stowed.😄
Internal waste tanks are stored underneath - this is a portable version- to use when you're not close to a dump station - so this is in addition to what an RV comes with.
thumb 👍
👍👍 Happy camping!
👏🏼
👍🏻
Just buy a cover for it.
But to store it where with said cover? I didn't have bumper space or a ladder to hang it from...
You don't see it driving behind the rv 😆
True... but every time I walk outside the rig I have to look at it!
Bruh... You could store batteries there...
I don't think I'd be comfortable with that - but maybe you could make it work.
another gadget to spend money and time just cover your tote with the same material you use for storing your automobile. and keep it moving.
Sounds like this isn't for you, have a good day!
Get a far superior compost toilet, then replace you black tank with another freshwater tank. Never deal with messy sewage again, Much better solution
You’re still messing with sewage, it’s just mixed with composting material.
That is a fantastic option! You still have to mess with the waste in some form or another - plus a composting toilet is QUITE the investment.
Actually, that is not true. Sewage is a mix of solids and urine(Sterile). A compost toilet that separates the two, and keeps them separate, eliminates the creation of sewage in the first place. Thus, eliminating the hazards . Dump the urine , dump the solids(compost), separately, far less mess and hazards. @@Elizabeth-rq1vi
I hear you on empty tote’ing. But how unrealistic would it be to rig up a 15 gallon tote that contains 12 gallons of wastewater? Just under the 100lb mark if one assumes 8lb per gallon. The small tote would put it over, of course. But not by much I imagine.
I think it'd be too much dynamic weight in one spot - the liquid would slosh and the whole thing would be like a little kid spinning a necklace between both hands with a heavy weight in the middle.
@@rvgearandfargreat point! Thanks for all you do!
Lol no thank you.
to which part?
Good idea, but I don't want to deal with my tote if not needed to. If the sun shortens the life I'll just buy a new one. Thanks for ideas.
I agree, the same for trailer tires. They need replacing even if covered.
You have to deal with it somehow though... where do you store it when not in use?
@@rvgearandfar on the ladder, but now I have a toy hauler and the ladder is on the side I have my brother carry it on his motorcoach. I realize that it's better for me if I have a pump service come out once every week if I don't have full hook ups.