I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Converting Cargo Trailers into TTTs

Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby pete42 » Wed May 30, 2012 9:22 pm

Jeff
I just wanted to give you a heads up but sounds like you were ahead of me.
I did not know propane companies used galvanized underground, I have only seen them using copper or plastic.
again nice build enjoy and thanks for showing it to us the bed design sounds like it may be "copied".

pete
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby Glenlivet » Thu May 31, 2012 12:26 pm

'Copied' sounds kind of... I prefer the thought that it's an 'homage' to the earlier builder, to adopt his ideas for ones own. :D
viewtopic.php?f=42&t=46134

I'm behind on the A/C, and I have a new 5200 window shaker that I'm going to fab into it. Just tested it and my nice 53 Db. Champion 2000 watt genny runs it just fine. Your install inspires me.
Last edited by Glenlivet on Fri Jun 29, 2012 12:06 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby markp1988 » Thu May 31, 2012 3:36 pm

what do you use to cover the a/c with your travling
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby thejonescompany1 » Thu May 31, 2012 7:35 pm

Trainman45
Here is the list of propane parts I used. Any questions please ask.
From the regulator in to the heater (each piece listed separate)
Camco 59333 RV Horizontal Two Stage Propane Regulator with P.O.L.
3/8 in male NPT right angle to 3/8 in male NPT custom hose (approx 6 ft length)
3/8 in female to ¼ in male adapter
¼ in Parker series 60 quick disconnect (double seal, when disconnected both male and female seal)
3/8 in female to ¼ in male adapter
3/8 in street elbow
3 in long 3/8 double thread nipple (large fender washer drilled out and welded to the nipple, sealed, two holes drilled, to make a flange for outside of trailer, after installation flange sealed to exterior with OSI window sealant)
3/8 in street elbow
3/8 in ball valve
3/8 in male NPT to 3/8 in female flare custom hose (approx 12 in length)

A 20 pound tank lasts a very long time (I did the math some time ago, I think 150 plus hours on high) and with the insulated inside roof “low” power is plenty most of the time. And I camp a lot in the winter hunting season.

Remember to install good ceiling vents, windows, floor vents, and carbon monoxide/fire/smoke detector, Kidde has a good all in one for like $35 on Amazon (safety is not to be taken lightly).

markp1988
As far as the AC cover, I use a old tarp, cut it down and bungee cord it tight

Jeff
Check out my build.
http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=42&t=50577
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby Trainman45 » Thu May 31, 2012 11:40 pm

Hi Jeff,
Thanks for the reply and detail on your Wave 3 hookup. Very nice.!!
Ride the Rails,
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby d30gaijin » Sun Jun 03, 2012 9:36 pm

Jeff,

Such a fabulous build thread! :thumbsup: Thanks so much for sharing it all with us. Your build skills are incredible. I am envious, I wish you lived near me so I could beg you to help me with mine. 8) But then again, thank you for posting your build and providing me with so many great ideas I can incorporate into my build.

I have a question about your AC unit installation, something I have been going round and round about. I originally intended to buy and install a 5k BTU unit in my 6x10 CT like yours. I became concerned about water intrusion so went another route and bought a roof mount RV AC unit (used)... but it is huge, heavy, and obnoxious and now I don't really want to install it so am rethinking a home/window AC unit like you installed. With that said, I am looking at an installation similar to yours, at the front of the CT, but am wondering if hauling my CT down the road in a rain storm with the AC unit out there is going to be a water duct that will flood into my CT? Any experience in that regard, or thoughts?

Thanks,

Don
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby thejonescompany1 » Mon Jun 04, 2012 8:54 pm

Don
window AC units are made to be exposed to the elements. The inside and outside are separated with a barrier (most of the time foam). This keeps all water from just flowing in to the inside, and the cold air in and the hot air out. I did experience water inside once due to the condensation drainage being clogged with debris. This “water” came from the inside, dripping off the coils, and not flowing outside. This was a old unit I used at my shop for a long time in very dirty conditions. This was solved by removing the AC unit, disassembling, and washing out the unit. Lesson learned: keep debris from entering the unit. I also enlarged the drainage holes in the outside bottom pan to ensure small leaves and crap will just flow out when water builds in the pan (rain or condensation). A good cover will keep any water from even getting to the unit.

It is important to seal the frame (that holds the AC unit) to the outside wall. This ensures water does not run down the inside of the wall. The expanding foam is great for this. I guess that why they call it “great stuff”.

I guess what I’m saying is no, I have not had trouble. I say give it a try. Measure twice, then measure again.

If you have questions please ask.
Jeff
Check out my build.
http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=42&t=50577
"The ultimate authority resides in the people alone."- James Madison
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby viffer07 » Fri Jun 29, 2012 12:00 am

in the immortal words of the duke, ya done good pilgrim. really a good job. it looked sterile at first till you added the counter. and the cabinet doors. yeah i tried my bed out too.
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby pappaw » Fri Jun 29, 2012 10:04 am

looking good there Jeff :thumbsup:

Cheers :beer:
Image Cheers from Granny, Pappaw, and Cocoa (the Dachshund) Image
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby bc toys » Fri Jun 29, 2012 12:34 pm

great job like the bed and counter top and shelf well just liked it all :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby gwl2225 » Fri Jun 29, 2012 7:29 pm

This is my first post and I am starting to plan a build. What kind of mpg's are you getting while loaded. I am in planning stage now so just fishing for info.
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Re: I’m tired of tents, so I build this. (lots of pics)

Postby thejonescompany1 » Sun Jul 01, 2012 2:34 pm

gwl2225

I have a 2006 Toyota 4runner v6 4wd. With no trailer I get about 21 mpg. This is about 50/50 city/highway and obeying the speed limit. All my mpg numbers are real calculated mpg’s, but my mpg gauge is very close (+ 1.5 mpg).

On a trip, with the trailer fully loaded I get about 15 mpg round trip. This is doing mostly highway, and a normal speed of 65-70 mph. If I increase to 75-80 I get much worse mileage (12-13).
I do not drive aggressively. This will lead to really bad mileage.

If you have questions please ask.

Thanks for looking.
Check out my build.
http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=42&t=50577
"The ultimate authority resides in the people alone."- James Madison
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