This girl is always so happy and so keen all the time. Lovely to see such enthusisam. Her hubby is very lucky. Seems a great guy though. They say you can't find happiness in material things, they will beg to differ lol.
I think they enjoy the project as much as "having" the toy. As a kid, I built bikes, then I would build a better bike and sell the original bike, then it became cars... etc. Now at 75, I watch others do it on TH-cam.
As for the wrap I would go sleeper on it. Less likely to have any vandalism or attempted theft. When you are looking for any RV parts I always go around Elkhart Indiana. There are several business that deal with over stock or outdated or just surplus parts. I have purchased several exact replacement parts for my travel trail and shipping is very reasonable. Keep the propane tank and covert your generator to propane.
I agree with the sleeper wrap then put the logos on the awning so you can control when and were to advertise. maybe even more awnings or changeable (cost).
The sleeper wrap while looking very nice, if the trailer is stolen, will make it harder to recover. A one off wrap will make the trailer easier to spot and harder to hide. That being said, the one off wrap will also attract attention that could lead to breaking into the trailer. Which means you would have to make sure it is secured properly. If you decide to go with a sleeper wrap, then get a trucker chain that you can run through the rims to chain all three tires together on one side. Or if you want to go the high tech route, then a GPS unit that can track the trailer.
I've lived out on the road for years. Light color wrap! Keeps the heat down. White roof coat reflective for the same reason. Less windows more skylight in bed area=more privacy. You really only need one skylight up there if you can get A/C to move that way with a small fan/duct. Solar panels for power are a must do. Little on demand water heaters work bomb. You can drain them quick too. No holding tank. The platinum mat heaters work well but are expensive. I like them for the lack of fumes. Non vented. Lots of charging ports from your solar system/battery bank. A good little inverter helps too. I know you will have a generator but honestly you can run almost everything on a little solar setup. And you can be maintenance charging your car stuff full time too! You will have to install a holding tank for the head and shower so you will be framing up part of that front section floor to get that in. And that's where you want that weight. Insulating the floor in the living areas makes a world of difference in a camper. You loose soooo much heat through the floor. You might want to think about an insulated curtain to separate the living area when need be. Chain weighted hem. Rain and wind detection awning! Ask me how I know. Oh and bearing buddies on the axles with waterproof grease. Man there's more but I have found these to be essential. Congrats and have fun. Been following you guys for a long while now!
Emily your superpower is your personality always show that smile never quit the etrack on the wall works well we used it to hold copiers for transport, enjoy your trailer
What a great project!! We've been caravaning for decades and it really is several steps up from tent camping.... which is fine when you're young and the weather is fine!!! You'll only need to pack food and clothes as everything else will simply 'live' in the caravan..... We can pick our 'van up from storage and be in rural France in 5 hours!!! The most fun you can have with your clothes on!! XX P
Make sure you get at least w heavy duty casters to mount on the underside of the trailer 1 or 2 inch's from the end of the trailer so if you come across any steep driveways or entrances into parking lots. The wheels will allow the back end of the trailer to roll and not drag the back end and possibly do damage to it.
My enclosed trailer i fabbed baseboards made from angle iron with a piece of rod welded at a diagonal every 18 inches that went around the perimeter. Gave the floor a finished look and many tie down locations.
I bought a 36ft 5Fifth-wheel camper for $100 plan on using it for dry storage. People are always giving away older campers that have had water damage. Good place to gat windows, complete bathroom and a whole bunch of goodies. Good luck!
High Arizona, just helped tear a camper down for a friend of mine, Fridge, wetbath (with tub), water heater, heater, ac. Water tanks, waste tank, battery holders. Bunch of cool stuff. It all worked. Roof had a leak ruined the roof and floor
A mini mansion that hauls 2 cars is super nice for on the road events, but its still really handy to have a single car, open 2 axle just in case something breaks close by. As handy as ya'll are, it don't even cost much, I built mine out of mostly scrap steel and an abandoned boat trailer, been using it for over 25 years and it didn't cost me anything but labor.
Excited to see this build progress. Do a stealth wrap for sure. You can advertise when at events with banners and easy ups. No need to bring additional attention to yourselves while traveling or when at family gatherings.
I bought a donor RV trailer and used all the appliances. Its a big project and that will save allot of time. Ive seen so many conversion videos, Using real RV stuff makes it look pro
I have an 8 X 16 V nose van trailer that I had a camper tent built for the ramp door. When camping the door opens level with the floor and the camper tent is secured giving me an extra seven feet of living space. With 40 feet of trailer, I'd doubt you be interested in such a thing but it sure is nice. Thought I'd share just in case it appealed to you because it is unique and attacks lots of attention. I look forward to future updates on your trailer conversion.
Wrap the outside trailer in vinyl something cool. Keep the interiors white (or at least a really light color), it will feel less claustrophobic. Love your idea for the floors. I think someone might have hauled motorcycles in it which might explain the E-track layout. For the bed just get a 6" foam mattress, but also put in a huge clear bubble skylight in the bed area! The bubble out will give more head space and view of the stars at night. Make a curved curtain rod and curtains, use black out curtains. Party deck on the roof! Make foldable railings. And, must have a kick @$$ radio in it, inside and out, make it bluetooth so you can run it by a small tablet you can take it out side, on the roof or in the bed, but you don't have to run it off your phone so if you walk away it stops music etc. Get Starlink for internet. Would be great for you guys as creators. :)
Very cool project. It will be fun to come along for the build. One small suggestion is to have a propane connection outside the trailer to hook up a Coleman stove and lanterns for your outside kitchen.
what a great project. any flood lights on the outside should be LED and resets into the trailer. also you have a couple of large fire extinguisher om board one at the rear cargo door and one at the front man door. also a propane detector and co detector in the camper area. cant wait to see part 2
A neat place to get stuff is also insurance yards. A friend of mine totalled his RV when he let a toilet overflow accedently. He had floor vents and got a claim approved because of the cost to replace the carpet and vents. Everything in that RV was perfectly good,
Elkhart,Indiana is the place to go for any kind of new ,or used RV parts .I know it's a long way from your home however ,if they don't have what you need there in Elkhart ,Indiana , I'd be highly surprised .They're the RV builders capitol of the nation. Good luck,Love the show ,and stay safe........
Old bus windows/caravan would work well for your front cabin. As for the fuel tank section, split that a into generator/water heater on one side and battery box the other with the center door as storage. One large door either side of the small center door would be easy as to make/purchase and keep a eye out for good 2nd hand solar panels and controllers for your roof, for that go anywhere power. You can buy some awesome water tanks from flee-bay if you have enough space under your floor plus they help with weight distribution when towing a empty trailer(keeping the weight forward) Any camping, RV, boat store should have most of the parts if you want new. Oh side thought, you can move one of the AC units into the forward cabin for cooler nights and fill the existing hole with a pop-up sky light if you are keen, they also come in lots of sizes and styles if that helps you guys out. Makes me wish i was in the states and not down under, i would love to help you out so much!!
Have you looked for a used RV that is priced low due to water damage or may be a wrecked Camper? It could be a donor for the bathroom parts, waste water tanks, kitchen appliances, windows, awning and the fold up couch. I have looked at some campers that “need work” for around $3,000.
For the jacks, they now make tube-within-tube jack pads that you pull a pin and they fall to the ground and you re-pin at the next spot so you're not standing there waiting for the electric or worse, cranking. I've retrofit all my trailers with foots or the telescoping pinned jack legs. You also want to put jacks at the rear of the trailer to prevent the vehicle you drive into it "whipping" the rest of the trailer...
Worked at Camping World Corporate and there were always some trades tucked away in the back of the yard that might be a good source for your needs, good luck!
I have a 40 for toy hauler that is going to be tore down . But if you every get up to new England you can have everything ( 2 basin sink , 4 burner stove and oven , neo angle corner shower, new bathroom sink , big fridge with separate freezer runs on gas or electric, floor pockets for tables , couch that folds up flat against the wall , hot water heater , furnace doesn't work , and windows) you can have it all just come and get it . Its rough but everything was used until the roof came apart in the toyhauler area , now I want to make it into an open trailer .
Put your water and black tanks where the fuel tanks are now then look at your GVW to see what you have too play with because with 2 cars in their that may limit what you can do. I would fit it out for 1 car and go all out for the RV side, if you love camping. Looking forward to seeing your vision come to life.
I'd say keep the trailer wrap simple so that it doesn't look out of place if you take it to an event that isn't automotive related. You could look into some banners that you can add to the sides with your logos and stuff on them. Secure them with twist locks through rivet holes and then you could stop when you get close to a an event and put them on. It would keep them out of the elements when the trailer isn't in use. Looking forward to seeing more of this build.
There is a used RV place in Missouri, just east of Carthage off of 44. You can't miss it because they are visible from the highway. And there's billboards advertising it. I believe it is called Colaw RV parts.
Make sure whatever flooring you choose is very light weight. It is amazing how much square footage of flooring you have and how much weight you will add if you choose the wrong flooring
Hi Aaron, congrats on being happy with your new dream. Have you sold the plane? Camping in that trailer will be a blast, would actually be called Glamping. Hope this will compensate for not getting an Instrument rating, but all dreams must end or be changed. Good luck with the project and staying earth bound. Thanks for sharing.
Lots to suggest. Are you installing a kitchen? Either way RV dump valves are always on the drivers side. You will need tanks for grey water & fresh water. Put the shower and bath sink/kitchen sink on the drivers side to make plumbing runs shorter/easier. You'll use schedule 80 PVC for plumbing. Don't install a black tank, instead use a composting toilet and install it on the passenger side. With toilet on one side and everything else opposite you'll use up less interior length. I'd keep at least one of the generator fuel tanks and install a fixed generator inside that front lower compartment in place of the second tank. You'll then have a quieter & higher electrical capacity setup. Higher capacity will be needed to run AC, fridge, lighting (in&out), charge batteries, run a compressor, etc. Last, for the wrap do a collage of all of your cars and the plane with Flying Sparks Garage on the tailgate only then, do the rest of the wrap in a typical RV style. Best of both worlds. Have fun & good luck.
Black and red to match the floor on the wrap. Neutral colors like grays on the inside walls to keep it clean. Leds to keep the power consumption down. 👍
Great setup ! Black it all out for travel and stayovers, Pop up Banners and lights/sound when needed to showcase. Will be great to watch it evolve. Hope you all digging life !
Install a roof top viewing deck with shade cover. If you can't put a large enough black and grey water tank, get potable ones. That way you can drive away from trailer and dump. Replace tires every 5 to 6 years no matter what. Brackets for hanging TV on outside for nights outside without feeling cooped up. Portable satelite dish on tripod. Speakers inside and outside for tunes. They have grills you can hang on outside of trailer. Always use stainless steal screws on outside and only use 100 percent silicone on anything outside even the RV windows you plan to install. Good luck.
Yay. Congrats. Love it. Am a bit envious..... As to RV Parts - Elkhart IN, and surrounding area, is the place. Major RV manufacturing zone. Western Oregon is the other major zone. I converted a nice 40' coach bus to RV. I found lots of 'scratch n dent' stuff in Elkhart. Also used. Prob a good bit of it online. As to the wrap... hmmm... flash & splash is fun; for about a year. After that, betcha want incognito
Use a mini split a/c.so quiet and efficient. Get one with a heat pump. You can run your whole rig with a honda 2200. Get diesel air heaters.way efficient. Keep those tanks. I just finished building my toterhome.learned alot. Try to stay away from rv stuff. Use marine stuff. Vitrifrigo refrigerator is awesome. Let me know if you want more input. Excited for you guys.
a local rv salvage places perfect to find any interior stuff like stoves and sinks and stuff and exterior like the auning that came off a wrecked rv. These places are awesome because you can find really good parts at lower than new retail price. The couch style you are looking for is like the one found in Toyhaulers.
You should consider installing an electric stabilizer jack (they aren't that much) for the ass end to help support the trailer when you are loading and just sitting there. For the windows, you are wanting for the bed area make sure one of them is an emergency egress window. Leave the fuel tanks and you can bring your own fuel if you happen to be boondocking it you will be able to put fuel in the vehicles without going to town with jerry cans. For the area, you are riping out the cabinet you can order the frame for a slide and then you finish it out. I have a 5th wheel toy hauler and I"m replacing my couch with another so the one I'm taking out you can have. Its horseshoe shaped with each end has a pull out to make it a chase lounger, there is an air mattress that fits in the middle of the hourseshoe that makes it queen bed. I live west of Orlando and if you guys just happen by here one day soon-ish let me know and it's yours.
Hey Emily, Look at Tiny Houses based on gooseneck trailers for good ideas on finishing out that forward space as a bedroom. Like the modular flooring panels since its car friendly and durable... would suggest you keep the track system in floor except where its kinda randomly placed in mid trailer... You can lay down a thin plywood or other underlayment to make it all flush to support the modular floor panels, leaving the ones covering the tracks with a velcro, or magnet mounting if friction can't do the job of holding them down. Then they could be pulled up a panel or two at a time where needed if something has to be secured.
for stairs, they make nice fold up stairs that go inside the door frame when traveling. super sturdy and then they are not full of grunge when you get to site!
Love my 40 footer, hard to tell its behind the truck until a good grade then the ole 7.3 needs some more grunt. Mine was an old transmission sales trailer they took to big events. The front 8 foot and gooseneck is living quarters with heat/ac in it and an AC in back, that door on the landing gear on mine has a center hydraulic ram and i swear the pump looks like the trim pump off of a boat and hooked to a cylinder with a 2” shaft but it lifts it with ease then i hand crank the double jacks down to sit it on for long term. Look on FB marketplace for a damaged camper, pick what you want and turn the frame into your open car trailer or sell it off to fund one.
Nice project, looking forward to watching the progress. I'd go incognito with the wrap just to be safe. Unfortunately we live in a day and age where people would rather steal something instead of working for it.
Awesome Choice Guys, considering the hassles guys like Finnegan had hunting for race transporters I think you have nailed it first shot! Well done in your new Home away from Home!
What an awesome buy. You guys are going to turn that already nice trailer into something special. I was thinking about a graphic on the left and right sides that shows a couple of tow chains low to the ground with sparks underneath them. We've all seen that tow truck or trailer with the tow chains precariously dragging the ground and throwing up sparks. Just an idea. Hence Flying Sparks Garage on wheels. LOL
Do a split wrap half side as advertisement (left) the other side like a regular rv (right). That way while you guys are towing down the highway or set up at the track people can see the left side and know who and what it's about. Meanwhile when you pull up to a campsite or fueling station or the street curb it will look like any other trailer/rv and folks won't bother you for autographs/pictures and such. Also try boat yards for multipurpose furniture like what you have on the boat (tables/storage). It's your trailer so think outside the box for what you want.
Stay stealth on the wrap, put the FSG logos on the awnings. Look at security very carefully. I know of several theft situations in my group. Wheel locks, LoJack, etc. I have used Arizona RV Salvage Online for stuff, heck watch CL and put the word out you may find a wrecked or storm damaged RV you can buy and strip the Fridge, etc out of. Put something impervious to water under the tiles, you want to be able to hose out the car parking area of the trailer without getting water damage. That F450 is gonna hafta stay now that you have this beast!
Excited for this project...especially the wrap the tram at 360 wraps will take good care of you we’ve done quite of few installs for them in Salt Lake City
My thoughts on this is putting solar on the roof. Being living in Texas will work awesome! And for jacks you might look at the ones for a bumper tow that are electric. I put one on my 20ft and was easy and cheap! If I'm not mistaken there are RV salvage yards in Louisiana and Arkansas. I'm drawing a blank on where but Google it
Get a rendering done once you know what colors you want and also do one for the inside. Try and get a show kitchen for the late living area, one of the beds you could use is a roller bed used in VW campers.
Hi, don’t forget to add an emergency escape window, so you can easily get out during any bad situations while staying inside. Make yourself a design on paper before you start. Keep on building!!!!!
Helping my daughter with her camper remodel, have the old water heater, gas and electric. She went with on demand type as it will be tiny house. May have the oven/stove also, have to check.. give me a shout.
You should be able to duct the front A/C into your new bedroom without moving it, but you will need to get into the ceiling. We have a front bedroom, and you definitely want cold air blowing directly in there.
I just remodeled a camper into a tiny home and have a few things you could use, but I'm in KY, so not much help. Just gave away some windows also... should be able to find an RV scrapyard somewhere close to ya.
Some people have converted 2500 lb atv winches to convert to an electric jack cheap. It may be cheaper to finish out the inside by buying an inexpensive travel trailer and use the pieces fro, that inside. Also there is a Crawler Hauler FB page that has had some builds like this.
Looking forward to your mods. As for the RV awning, don't be swayed by the speakers built in to the awning. They're pretty much useless (ask me how I know). If you want out door audio, just get marine speakers. As for the living quarters, not sure what route you want to go but RV refrigerators are expensive an tiny in capacity. GE Appliances now sells a few 12 volt refrigerators up to 10ft capacity that may work with a custom build like yours.
You might want to look into Sunsetter awnings. I have a motorized one that is 18 ft. wide and has been trouble free for years. It is self-supporting so you don’t have to watch out for posts.
put hooks in the walls, hang hammoks.... :) you always sleep level in a hammock!!!! :) ...one RV I saw had a king sized bed that dropped down from the ceeling!!!!!
Like the buslife people, you should gut it, strip everything out and check for rust, holes, damaged areas. Get under it and check everything. As for a wrap, I think you should put your logo and the shoot from your intro with the hair flip.
line the living quarters with Reflectix insulation. Leave a 1/4" air space on one side. This will give you an R4 and will also block 96% of the radiant heat from entering / leaving your living space making it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Is is also a vapor barrier. Great product!
Fantastic Guys,exactly what you have needed for years,as someone who lives 100% of the time,completely off grid,my no one priority, would be Solar panels, with storage batteries, inverter,then pottable(drinking) water tank,a kitchenette, sink,stove(propane), Refrigeration (FRIDGE), toolboxes, Spares storage for Roxy?A Reversing Camera on rear,is a must when positioning in Reverse,with plenty of LED rear lighting?
I didn't notice where you live, but going to Elkhart, Indiana, is the place to go. There are countless rv surplus places there, and in that general area. where you can get everything you need to build an rv for a fraction of the cost retail. Most everything there is new. Plan on spending a few days there. There are so many huge places there.
Aaron said y'all would put an awning on it. As a certified TV tech I just want you to know there are a lot of issues in putting a power awning on a hauler type trailer. It can be done, but it will be an aggravating adventure. You most likely will want to get rid of the house electric panel and install a rv converter and panel since most of the things you will put in it will need a 12vdc source. There are several rv scrap yards, but they are expensive and if you price shop you can get most things new at close to the same cost.
The e-trac is so much more versatile & tons stronger due to it spreading the load over a long area. You can tie down a Smart Car, then next a long bed truck. No way old school d-rings can accommodate different vehicles easily, d-rings also requires reinforced floor (Steel) to really secure a car during a accident where impact stops you Instantly. Otherwise they just pull out of the floor & cars squish everything as it flies forward. With d-rings a simple tow rig hitting a car at a stop sign can turn into a major wreck for trailer also if car comes loose in trailer.
There are a lot of wrecked RV's in central and eastern Iowa from the derecho in August. Look for a wrecked RV for your windows, hatches and appliances.
I was thinking a foldable wall between the car space and front space, door in the center and wings that fold flat to the walls for 2car mode. Also Solar panels for an awning would be neat. Could fit 3+ kw on 40 foot, and fold down to side for transport.
If I were you, I'd be watching for RV shows and visiting them. You'll probably see lots of neat ideas for different design features scattered around all of the different brands and manufacturers, that you can compile and copy make this trailer what you want it to be. Also, before you commit to building something inside, do a mockup with cardboard or foam board, so you can see how things will work out. That can really help you visualize and understand how a design layout works and save money by heading off mistakes.
We did the E Trac because it always seems like no matter how good you plan it, it always changes and the D Rings were never in a good spot, either different length cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc. make sure you put mirror tint on the widows so no one can see inside.if they can’t see it they can’t steal it. Don’t advertise what’s in it. Composting toilet for sure, out door shower
This girl is always so happy and so keen all the time. Lovely to see such enthusisam. Her hubby is very lucky. Seems a great guy though. They say you can't find happiness in material things, they will beg to differ lol.
I think they enjoy the project as much as "having" the toy. As a kid, I built bikes, then I would build a better bike and sell the original bike, then it became cars... etc. Now at 75, I watch others do it on TH-cam.
As for the wrap I would go sleeper on it. Less likely to have any vandalism or attempted theft.
When you are looking for any RV parts I always go around Elkhart Indiana. There are several business that deal with over stock or outdated or just surplus parts. I have purchased several exact replacement parts for my travel trail and shipping is very reasonable.
Keep the propane tank and covert your generator to propane.
I agree with the sleeper wrap then put the logos on the awning so you can control when and were to advertise.
maybe even more awnings or changeable (cost).
The sleeper wrap while looking very nice, if the trailer is stolen, will make it harder to recover. A one off wrap will make the trailer easier to spot and harder to hide.
That being said, the one off wrap will also attract attention that could lead to breaking into the trailer. Which means you would have to make sure it is secured properly.
If you decide to go with a sleeper wrap, then get a trucker chain that you can run through the rims to chain all three tires together on one side.
Or if you want to go the high tech route, then a GPS unit that can track the trailer.
This will be a cool build! Find a wrecked or hail damaged camping trailer on Copart (or similar), for all the parts/appliances you need.
Check out Visone RV. Salvage yard in Kentucky. They have thousands of RV's on their property. Following your project....really enjoy it!
I've lived out on the road for years. Light color wrap! Keeps the heat down. White roof coat reflective for the same reason. Less windows more skylight in bed area=more privacy. You really only need one skylight up there if you can get A/C to move that way with a small fan/duct. Solar panels for power are a must do. Little on demand water heaters work bomb. You can drain them quick too. No holding tank. The platinum mat heaters work well but are expensive. I like them for the lack of fumes. Non vented. Lots of charging ports from your solar system/battery bank. A good little inverter helps too. I know you will have a generator but honestly you can run almost everything on a little solar setup. And you can be maintenance charging your car stuff full time too! You will have to install a holding tank for the head and shower so you will be framing up part of that front section floor to get that in. And that's where you want that weight. Insulating the floor in the living areas makes a world of difference in a camper. You loose soooo much heat through the floor. You might want to think about an insulated curtain to separate the living area when need be. Chain weighted hem. Rain and wind detection awning! Ask me how I know. Oh and bearing buddies on the axles with waterproof grease. Man there's more but I have found these to be essential. Congrats and have fun. Been following you guys for a long while now!
Emily your superpower is your personality always show that smile never quit the etrack on the wall works well we used it to hold copiers for transport, enjoy your trailer
What a great project!! We've been caravaning for decades and it really is several steps up from tent camping.... which is fine when you're young and the weather is fine!!! You'll only need to pack food and clothes as everything else will simply 'live' in the caravan..... We can pick our 'van up from storage and be in rural France in 5 hours!!! The most fun you can have with your clothes on!! XX P
I would paint match it to the truck pulling it. That would look sleek.
Make sure you get at least w heavy duty casters to mount on the underside of the trailer 1 or 2 inch's from the end of the trailer so if you come across any steep driveways or entrances into parking lots. The wheels will allow the back end of the trailer to roll and not drag the back end and possibly do damage to it.
My enclosed trailer i fabbed baseboards made from angle iron with a piece of rod welded at a diagonal every 18 inches that went around the perimeter. Gave the floor a finished look and many tie down locations.
I bought a 36ft 5Fifth-wheel camper for $100 plan on using it for dry storage. People are always giving away older campers that have had water damage. Good place to gat windows, complete bathroom and a whole bunch of goodies. Good luck!
I love Aaron, he looks like he is just along for the ride with Emily but enjoying every minute of it.
High Arizona, just helped tear a camper down for a friend of mine, Fridge, wetbath (with tub), water heater, heater, ac. Water tanks, waste tank, battery holders. Bunch of cool stuff. It all worked. Roof had a leak ruined the roof and floor
A mini mansion that hauls 2 cars is super nice for on the road events, but its still really handy to have a single car, open 2 axle just in case something breaks close by. As handy as ya'll are, it don't even cost much, I built mine out of mostly scrap steel and an abandoned boat trailer, been using it for over 25 years and it didn't cost me anything but labor.
Awesome trailer!!! You'll get a lot of use from it.
Best channel ever,never boring! Don't know why you two don't have a reality show. Probably too real.
Excited to see this build progress. Do a stealth wrap for sure. You can advertise when at events with banners and easy ups. No need to bring additional attention to yourselves while traveling or when at family gatherings.
So practical. Been in mine since 2003. I was Cargo camping when it wasn't cool.
love little Findley , lost my last Yorkie in march he was 20yrs old, love the show keep up the good work. Your fan in England
I bought a donor RV trailer and used all the appliances. Its a big project and that will save allot of time. Ive seen so many conversion videos, Using real RV stuff makes it look pro
I Love your enthusiam,, its infectious. looking forward to following your journey on this build.
I have an 8 X 16 V nose van trailer that I had a camper tent built for the ramp door. When camping the door opens level with the floor and the camper tent is secured giving me an extra seven feet of living space. With 40 feet of trailer, I'd doubt you be interested in such a thing but it sure is nice. Thought I'd share just in case it appealed to you because it is unique and attacks lots of attention. I look forward to future updates on your trailer conversion.
Wrap the outside trailer in vinyl something cool. Keep the interiors white (or at least a really light color), it will feel less claustrophobic. Love your idea for the floors. I think someone might have hauled motorcycles in it which might explain the E-track layout. For the bed just get a 6" foam mattress, but also put in a huge clear bubble skylight in the bed area! The bubble out will give more head space and view of the stars at night. Make a curved curtain rod and curtains, use black out curtains. Party deck on the roof! Make foldable railings. And, must have a kick @$$ radio in it, inside and out, make it bluetooth so you can run it by a small tablet you can take it out side, on the roof or in the bed, but you don't have to run it off your phone so if you walk away it stops music etc. Get Starlink for internet. Would be great for you guys as creators. :)
So nice you guys got that big dually. You pretty-much don't have to worry about hauling anything!!
Very cool project. It will be fun to come along for the build. One small suggestion is to have a propane connection outside the trailer to hook up a Coleman stove and lanterns for your outside kitchen.
what a great project. any flood lights on the outside should be LED and resets into the trailer.
also you have a couple of large fire extinguisher om board
one at the rear cargo door and one at the front man door. also a propane detector and co detector in the camper area. cant wait to see part 2
A neat place to get stuff is also insurance yards. A friend of mine totalled his RV when he let a toilet overflow accedently. He had floor vents and got a claim approved because of the cost to replace the carpet and vents. Everything in that RV was perfectly good,
Elkhart,Indiana is the place to go for any kind of new ,or used RV parts .I know it's a long way from your home however ,if they don't have what you need there in Elkhart ,Indiana , I'd be highly surprised .They're the RV builders capitol of the nation. Good luck,Love the show ,and stay safe........
Old bus windows/caravan would work well for your front cabin. As for the fuel tank section, split that a into generator/water heater on one side and battery box the other with the center door as storage. One large door either side of the small center door would be easy as to make/purchase and keep a eye out for good 2nd hand solar panels and controllers for your roof, for that go anywhere power. You can buy some awesome water tanks from flee-bay if you have enough space under your floor plus they help with weight distribution when towing a empty trailer(keeping the weight forward) Any camping, RV, boat store should have most of the parts if you want new. Oh side thought, you can move one of the AC units into the forward cabin for cooler nights and fill the existing hole with a pop-up sky light if you are keen, they also come in lots of sizes and styles if that helps you guys out. Makes me wish i was in the states and not down under, i would love to help you out so much!!
You two are so entertaining ,
Love your vision and so looking forward to the progress. Best of U tube you are!
Have you looked for a used RV that is priced low due to water damage or may be a wrecked Camper? It could be a donor for the bathroom parts, waste water tanks, kitchen appliances, windows, awning and the fold up couch. I have looked at some campers that “need work” for around $3,000.
I cant wait for the trailer build videos. Probably going to be one of my favorite series because I've always wanted to do this type of thing
For the jacks, they now make tube-within-tube jack pads that you pull a pin and they fall to the ground and you re-pin at the next spot so you're not standing there waiting for the electric or worse, cranking. I've retrofit all my trailers with foots or the telescoping pinned jack legs. You also want to put jacks at the rear of the trailer to prevent the vehicle you drive into it "whipping" the rest of the trailer...
Worked at Camping World Corporate and there were always some trades tucked away in the back of the yard that might be a good source for your needs, good luck!
I have a 40 for toy hauler that is going to be tore down . But if you every get up to new England you can have everything ( 2 basin sink , 4 burner stove and oven , neo angle corner shower, new bathroom sink , big fridge with separate freezer runs on gas or electric, floor pockets for tables , couch that folds up flat against the wall , hot water heater , furnace doesn't work , and windows) you can have it all just come and get it . Its rough but everything was used until the roof came apart in the toyhauler area , now I want to make it into an open trailer .
Put your water and black tanks where the fuel tanks are now then look at your GVW to see what you have too play with because with 2 cars in their that may limit what you can do. I would fit it out for 1 car and go all out for the RV side, if you love camping. Looking forward to seeing your vision come to life.
Excellent point. GVWR of truck and trailer with load intended to see what’s left.
There is a huge rv salvage in Carthage, MO. It is called colaw rv.
Need stereo system before anything lol 🤣 awesome tralier.
A nice mural painted on the sides ! Flying Sparks Garage !!
I'd say keep the trailer wrap simple so that it doesn't look out of place if you take it to an event that isn't automotive related. You could look into some banners that you can add to the sides with your logos and stuff on them. Secure them with twist locks through rivet holes and then you could stop when you get close to a an event and put them on. It would keep them out of the elements when the trailer isn't in use. Looking forward to seeing more of this build.
Dometic makes really nice super small stoves and sink combos for rv/boats
There is a used RV place in Missouri, just east of Carthage off of 44. You can't miss it because they are visible from the highway. And there's billboards advertising it. I believe it is called Colaw RV parts.
Make sure whatever flooring you choose is very light weight. It is amazing how much square footage of flooring you have and how much weight you will add if you choose the wrong flooring
MAN, you all have hit the big time!!!!! Bob H., Flat Rock, N.C.
Wow that is a lot of work.
Good Luck. I will definitely be watching.
Hi Aaron, congrats on being happy with your new dream. Have you sold the plane?
Camping in that trailer will be a blast, would actually be called Glamping.
Hope this will compensate for not getting an Instrument rating, but all dreams must end or be changed.
Good luck with the project and staying earth bound.
Thanks for sharing.
You guys have a guardian Angel watching over you both. Good luck just comes y'all way. Really enjoy the videos.
Lots to suggest. Are you installing a kitchen? Either way RV dump valves are always on the drivers side. You will need tanks for grey water & fresh water. Put the shower and bath sink/kitchen sink on the drivers side to make plumbing runs shorter/easier. You'll use schedule 80 PVC for plumbing. Don't install a black tank, instead use a composting toilet and install it on the passenger side. With toilet on one side and everything else opposite you'll use up less interior length. I'd keep at least one of the generator fuel tanks and install a fixed generator inside that front lower compartment in place of the second tank. You'll then have a quieter & higher electrical capacity setup. Higher capacity will be needed to run AC, fridge, lighting (in&out), charge batteries, run a compressor, etc. Last, for the wrap do a collage of all of your cars and the plane with Flying Sparks Garage on the tailgate only then, do the rest of the wrap in a typical RV style. Best of both worlds. Have fun & good luck.
Black and red to match the floor on the wrap. Neutral colors like grays on the inside walls to keep it clean. Leds to keep the power consumption down. 👍
Great setup ! Black it all out for travel and stayovers, Pop up Banners and lights/sound when needed to showcase. Will be great to watch it evolve. Hope you all digging life !
Install a roof top viewing deck with shade cover. If you can't put a large enough black and grey water tank, get potable ones. That way you can drive away from trailer and dump. Replace tires every 5 to 6 years no matter what. Brackets for hanging TV on outside for nights outside without feeling cooped up. Portable satelite dish on tripod. Speakers inside and outside for tunes. They have grills you can hang on outside of trailer. Always use stainless steal screws on outside and only use 100 percent silicone on anything outside even the RV windows you plan to install. Good luck.
Yay. Congrats. Love it. Am a bit envious..... As to RV Parts - Elkhart IN, and surrounding area, is the place. Major RV manufacturing zone. Western Oregon is the other major zone. I converted a nice 40' coach bus to RV. I found lots of 'scratch n dent' stuff in Elkhart. Also used. Prob a good bit of it online. As to the wrap... hmmm... flash & splash is fun; for about a year. After that, betcha want incognito
Use a mini split a/c.so quiet and efficient. Get one with a heat pump.
You can run your whole rig with a honda 2200.
Get diesel air heaters.way efficient. Keep those tanks.
I just finished building my toterhome.learned alot. Try to stay away from rv stuff.
Use marine stuff.
Vitrifrigo refrigerator is awesome.
Let me know if you want more input.
Excited for you guys.
a local rv salvage places perfect to find any interior stuff like stoves and sinks and stuff and exterior like the auning that came off a wrecked rv. These places are awesome because you can find really good parts at lower than new retail price. The couch style you are looking for is like the one found in Toyhaulers.
You should consider installing an electric stabilizer jack (they aren't that much) for the ass end to help support the trailer when you are loading and just sitting there. For the windows, you are wanting for the bed area make sure one of them is an emergency egress window. Leave the fuel tanks and you can bring your own fuel if you happen to be boondocking it you will be able to put fuel in the vehicles without going to town with jerry cans. For the area, you are riping out the cabinet you can order the frame for a slide and then you finish it out. I have a 5th wheel toy hauler and I"m replacing my couch with another so the one I'm taking out you can have. Its horseshoe shaped with each end has a pull out to make it a chase lounger, there is an air mattress that fits in the middle of the hourseshoe that makes it queen bed. I live west of Orlando and if you guys just happen by here one day soon-ish let me know and it's yours.
Hey Emily, Look at Tiny Houses based on gooseneck trailers for good ideas on finishing out that forward space as a bedroom. Like the modular flooring panels since its car friendly and durable... would suggest you keep the track system in floor except where its kinda randomly placed in mid trailer... You can lay down a thin plywood or other underlayment to make it all flush to support the modular floor panels, leaving the ones covering the tracks with a velcro, or magnet mounting if friction can't do the job of holding them down. Then they could be pulled up a panel or two at a time where needed if something has to be secured.
for stairs, they make nice fold up stairs that go inside the door frame when traveling. super sturdy and then they are not full of grunge when you get to site!
Love my 40 footer, hard to tell its behind the truck until a good grade then the ole 7.3 needs some more grunt. Mine was an old transmission sales trailer they took to big events. The front 8 foot and gooseneck is living quarters with heat/ac in it and an AC in back, that door on the landing gear on mine has a center hydraulic ram and i swear the pump looks like the trim pump off of a boat and hooked to a cylinder with a 2” shaft but it lifts it with ease then i hand crank the double jacks down to sit it on for long term. Look on FB marketplace for a damaged camper, pick what you want and turn the frame into your open car trailer or sell it off to fund one.
Nice project, looking forward to watching the progress. I'd go incognito with the wrap just to be safe. Unfortunately we live in a day and age where people would rather steal something instead of working for it.
Rad, I darn near spit out my adult beverage, i remember that movie ;) I am so excited for you guys!!! Have fun
RV scap yard in Phoenix friends have said when I was looking for some parts. not sure.
Awesome Choice Guys, considering the hassles guys like Finnegan had hunting for race transporters I think you have nailed it first shot!
Well done in your new Home away from Home!
What an awesome buy. You guys are going to turn that already nice trailer into something special. I was thinking about a graphic on the left and right sides that shows a couple of tow chains low to the ground with sparks underneath them. We've all seen that tow truck or trailer with the tow chains precariously dragging the ground and throwing up sparks. Just an idea. Hence Flying Sparks Garage on wheels. LOL
Do a split wrap half side as advertisement (left) the other side like a regular rv (right). That way while you guys are towing down the highway or set up at the track people can see the left side and know who and what it's about. Meanwhile when you pull up to a campsite or fueling station or the street curb it will look like any other trailer/rv and folks won't bother you for autographs/pictures and such. Also try boat yards for multipurpose furniture like what you have on the boat (tables/storage). It's your trailer so think outside the box for what you want.
A Milwaukee 1/2 angle drill makes a great jack motor. Lots of people use them for winch motors on sailboats.
I would let world know I am here. Flying sparks all the way
Stay stealth on the wrap, put the FSG logos on the awnings. Look at security very carefully. I know of several theft situations in my group. Wheel locks, LoJack, etc. I have used Arizona RV Salvage Online for stuff, heck watch CL and put the word out you may find a wrecked or storm damaged RV you can buy and strip the Fridge, etc out of. Put something impervious to water under the tiles, you want to be able to hose out the car parking area of the trailer without getting water damage. That F450 is gonna hafta stay now that you have this beast!
Excited for this project...especially the wrap the tram at 360 wraps will take good care of you we’ve done quite of few installs for them in Salt Lake City
My thoughts on this is putting solar on the roof. Being living in Texas will work awesome! And for jacks you might look at the ones for a bumper tow that are electric. I put one on my 20ft and was easy and cheap! If I'm not mistaken there are RV salvage yards in Louisiana and Arkansas. I'm drawing a blank on where but Google it
Get a rendering done once you know what colors you want and also do one for the inside. Try and get a show kitchen for the late living area, one of the beds you could use is a roller bed used in VW campers.
Best wishes, waiting for the videos on the build a great idea for a project ✌🏽
Hi, don’t forget to add an emergency
escape window, so you can easily
get out during any bad situations
while staying inside.
Make yourself a design on paper
before you start.
Keep on building!!!!!
Love the enthusiasm you guys have. I love watching your videos.
Helping my daughter with her camper remodel, have the old water heater, gas and electric. She went with on demand type as it will be tiny house. May have the oven/stove also, have to check.. give me a shout.
Looking forward to watching y'all do this project as I have a cargo trailer that I'm modifying as well.
You should be able to duct the front A/C into your new bedroom without moving it, but you will need to get into the ceiling. We have a front bedroom, and you definitely want cold air blowing directly in there.
I just remodeled a camper into a tiny home and have a few things you could use, but I'm in KY, so not much help. Just gave away some windows also... should be able to find an RV scrapyard somewhere close to ya.
Some people have converted 2500 lb atv winches to convert to an electric jack cheap.
It may be cheaper to finish out the inside by buying an inexpensive travel trailer and use the pieces fro, that inside.
Also there is a Crawler Hauler FB page that has had some builds like this.
Looking forward to your mods. As for the RV awning, don't be swayed by the speakers built in to the awning. They're pretty much useless (ask me how I know). If you want out door audio, just get marine speakers.
As for the living quarters, not sure what route you want to go but RV refrigerators are expensive an tiny in capacity. GE Appliances now sells a few 12 volt refrigerators up to 10ft capacity that may work with a custom build like yours.
You might want to look into Sunsetter awnings. I have a motorized one that is 18 ft. wide and has been trouble free for years. It is self-supporting so you don’t have to watch out for posts.
Networked cameras - rear & all sides. Cover blind spots while towing and switch to security when unhitched.
put hooks in the walls, hang hammoks.... :) you always sleep level in a hammock!!!! :) ...one RV I saw had a king sized bed that dropped down from the ceeling!!!!!
Like the buslife people, you should gut it, strip everything out and check for rust, holes, damaged areas. Get under it and check everything. As for a wrap, I think you should put your logo and the shoot from your intro with the hair flip.
Looking forwards to the build. Always nice to see something different.
Looking forward to this story coming up!
Awesome!! Can’t wait to see what you transform this trailer into!! Can’t wait!! Seriously, I CANNOT WAIT!!
line the living quarters with Reflectix insulation. Leave a 1/4" air space on one side. This will give you an R4 and will also block 96% of the radiant heat from entering / leaving your living space making it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Is is also a vapor barrier. Great product!
Fantastic Guys,exactly what you have needed for years,as someone who lives 100% of the time,completely off grid,my no one priority, would be Solar panels, with storage batteries, inverter,then pottable(drinking) water tank,a kitchenette, sink,stove(propane), Refrigeration (FRIDGE), toolboxes, Spares storage for Roxy?A Reversing Camera on rear,is a must when positioning in Reverse,with plenty of LED rear lighting?
I didn't notice where you live, but going to Elkhart, Indiana, is the place to go. There are countless rv surplus places there, and in that general area. where you can get everything you need to build an rv for a fraction of the cost retail. Most everything there is new. Plan on spending a few days there. There are so many huge places there.
Aaron said y'all would put an awning on it. As a certified TV tech I just want you to know there are a lot of issues in putting a power awning on a hauler type trailer. It can be done, but it will be an aggravating adventure. You most likely will want to get rid of the house electric panel and install a rv converter and panel since most of the things you will put in it will need a 12vdc source. There are several rv scrap yards, but they are expensive and if you price shop you can get most things new at close to the same cost.
The e-trac is so much more versatile & tons stronger due to it spreading the load over a long area. You can tie down a Smart Car, then next a long bed truck. No way old school d-rings can accommodate different vehicles easily, d-rings also requires reinforced floor (Steel) to really secure a car during a accident where impact stops you Instantly. Otherwise they just pull out of the floor & cars squish everything as it flies forward. With d-rings a simple tow rig hitting a car at a stop sign can turn into a major wreck for trailer also if car comes loose in trailer.
There are a lot of wrecked RV's in central and eastern Iowa from the derecho in August. Look for a wrecked RV for your windows, hatches and appliances.
I was thinking a foldable wall between the car space and front space, door in the center and wings that fold flat to the walls for 2car mode. Also Solar panels for an awning would be neat. Could fit 3+ kw on 40 foot, and fold down to side for transport.
If I were you, I'd be watching for RV shows and visiting them. You'll probably see lots of neat ideas for different design features scattered around all of the different brands and manufacturers, that you can compile and copy make this trailer what you want it to be.
Also, before you commit to building something inside, do a mockup with cardboard or foam board, so you can see how things will work out. That can really help you visualize and understand how a design layout works and save money by heading off mistakes.
Oh L track can also be used as a bolting surface so it good for hanging stuff like cabinets and making it easy to remove
When you do the wrap try adding a spark shower ( like when cutting metal with a cutting disk ) and some Roxy red , for a splash of color
Skylights that can be opened for ventilation and natural lighting plus nighttime sky and stars watching.
We did the E Trac because it always seems like no matter how good you plan it, it always changes and the D Rings were never in a good spot, either different length cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc. make sure you put mirror tint on the widows so no one can see inside.if they can’t see it they can’t steal it. Don’t advertise what’s in it. Composting toilet for sure, out door shower
Excited about our partnership on the Midwest Man Cave flooring! Going to look bada$$!!! Thanks Emily and Aaron!
Jeff Leverton we’re stoked too!!! The flooring is going to be so rad!
Can't wait to see what you do with it. Nice buy.