2016 Diamond Cargo 8.5 x 20 v-nose Conversion

[mrjeff]

I have just begun converting the cargo trailer to a 2 motorcycle toy hauler/ camper. I have done some test loading of the bikes that combined weigh about 1500lbs. Final positioning will come once I get my built-ins done. Under counter dual voltage fridge, microwave and small bar sink in the v. Porta-pottie somewhere and an ac in the front wall. I should have somewhere between 8 and 11 ft from the cabinets to the motorcycles. I have almost finished insulating the ceiling and have started removing the plywood walls.
My first major surprise was what looked like philips screws are in fact nails and they don't come out very easy. I called the salesman, who claimed he thought they were screws, he had me call the factory and they said to get screws, you have to have the trailer built for you and then you can request screws. More to come.

I was going to post a picture of the ceiling insulation, but because it is blue and looks like all the the other blue ceilings, I will will skip the pic for now.

[m.colley]

Welcome. A 8.5x20 was one of the original sizes I contemplated buying/building before settling on my 7x16. Like you I'm building mine as a multi-purpose toy hauler & camper. Nothing as fancy as some, not as plain as others. I chose to build mine so that it would be built to mine and the wife's needs, not to some blue print that everyone else has. Good luck with your build. We like pictures so don't be afreaid to post them up.


Martin

[McDave]

Welcome mrjeff,
Good luck with your build.
That's a pretty good sized trailer, You should be able to do just about anything you can imagine with that.
Have fun!

McDave

[mrjeff]

Work started

[mrjeff]

First layer of 3/4 insulation on the ceiling and 3/4 furring strips almost complete. drivers side of trailer insulated and most 110volt wiring done on that side. I plan on re-installing the plywood on that side before I remove it on the passenger side. Got most of my light fixtures and wire last week and am about to start the overhead 12volt wiring, then add 1/2 inch more foam and install the luan ceiling. Need to post some pics soon.

[AnthonyH]

Looking good. Getting serious about it when you get the ax out. Haha

Sent from my SM-N910V using Tapatalk

[mrjeff]

Outside lights

[m.colley]

Outside lights

Those outside spotlights are pretty popular. I added a pair at the rear of mine as well to use as loading/unloading lights. I wired mine thru a simple rocker switch at the rear door.


Martin

[mrjeff]

I am putting my switch just inside the side door. They are going to be used as backup lights also.

[McDave]

+1 on the back up lights. flboy had a nice run down on the wiring specifics in his build journal. Check it out, he's a pretty smart cookie.

McDave