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Congrats on your purchase. Two accessories to get pronto for starters
Recessed wall/foldable cup/can holder for interior. You will thank me later.
I can't tell if you have an awning attached but you will want a foldable 12x12 straight legged canopy.
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Enjoy the adventures and challenges.
They make deflectors for air vents. You might have to look around for one that fits properly.
We travel with both a Coleman 2 burner and a propane grill and often find ourselves camping where there is no provided table. Our GCI camp kitchen is the bomb for solving that...all one piece, no parts that have to be clipped or inserted (or lost). Just unfold and go.
I'm in the Canuck version of the PNW, lots of wind and rain in winter and we battle mould and mildew all year.
I built a simple structure, 6 posts, metal roof. no foundation, no walls. sort of like the shade structures ranchers place in fields for cattle, etc. But nicer as its in my back yard.
At end of season I back the trailer under this pavilion, plug in the dry air thing and bingo no mould, no exterior damage.
BTW, this pavilion also keeps the kayaks, my two metal smokers and the utility trailer under cover. Plus I love the sound of rain and a metal roof.
Nah it’s the adhesive stuff! Here’s what I used: RoomMates RMK11950WP Twigs Green Peel and Stick Wallpaper https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08NMZ39SP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_YSZ754NZ471J1NYZAK2A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I also highly recommend getting something like this little kit - all the tools were tremendously helpful and things I didn’t have on hand already!
Wallpaper Smoothing Tool Kit for Adhesive Contact Paper Application Window Film Craft Vinyl https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JQHC5W3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9HBEB7ZDDDV85Q6TKBVZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Good luck! I still have to do the other side & it’s far from perfect, but slowly the camper is feeling more and more like a home away from home for us!
I put these on my homebuilt teardrop. Have held up great with just the double stick tape it came with.
Magnetic Door Stopper,ZjarFwg 2... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07964YYVC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I'm building this now, 90% done. I used this hardware and finished birch plywood. Really easy.
Velcro strips and strong magnet knife holders. Yes, they stay in place! Took it out for a spin last night just to test it.
Buy a battery tester and test them. Good tool for your shop and can save you from wasting money. But deep cycles I normally recommend replacement in 5 years regardless of test results for non-life safety applications. Here’s one on Amazon for <$50
It’s still a folding one but the one that came with my teardrop has been extremely comfortable. Milliard Tri-Fold Foam Folding Mattress and Sofa Bed for Guests (Queen) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FBJS2DZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_WQE4D1P18MSJ94N9JYA7
It’s our trash can!
This is the dish rack: Spectrum Diversified Vintage Extra Large Cabinet & Wall-Mounted Basket for Storage & Organization Rustic Farmhouse Decor, Sturdy Steel Wire Storage Bin, Industrial Gray https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J7ZAHM4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SEHTFS4R9Z3MDW2T263E?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I just ordered this, haven't used it yet but it will use way less power than a heater, I'd say its safer than using propane or something in such a small space, also I like that its underneath you so the heat rises and surrounds you as opposed to a heated blanket, I think I saw in the questions the wattage it uses 300ish watts for a full night, idk if thats gospel. Mine will be here nov. 3rd can let you know how it works out! I have solar, but haven't really learned the ins and outs of it yet. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FHW8O22/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_qS1LFb9M8DV28?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Thank you.
I'm not 100% sure this is the same brand - my father-in-law bought them, but they look identical.
You can also use something like a Rockpals or Jackery.
They have more 12v ports and are easy to wire up with DC 5.5MM x 2.1MM pigtails:
I have used this method and it has been rock solid so far.
I just finished building my camper this last weekend and based my build process mostly off of Oregon Batman’s build. He goes into a good amount of detail for each step and the assembly is very solid. I was able to easily adapt his build to fit my camping/travel needs. Also want to mention that rooftop tents are expensive. We considered one but instead opted to get the ARB awning tent as we were already going to get the awning. It’s huge (bigger than the camper) and could easily sleep 5. And if you’re worried about rain the floor is a thick waterproof tarp that extends a foot up the walls.
My kids, now young adults, each have tents that you take out of the bag, hold the center hub, give it a shake and it self sets up.
Bit longer to put back into the bag but not much. Under a minute for sure.
I've been using this:
Can use while hitched or unhitched.
Works fine so far but I don't think anyone has tried to steal it yet...
Thank you!
Here's the link for the window: RecPro RV Exit Window 36" W x 22" H Optional Trim | RV Window Replacement (with Trim Ring) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087V4W645/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_ZCPSS3WTSAYZ1VNM2FCH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We use this: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ENUINIO/
It's a fold up but works quite well. TBH I'd rather have a 6" thick version though. Thought about adding a 2" Pillowtop to ours for the colder months.
And Fold ups are really the way to go, otherwise you can't pull the mattress out between trips.
> Napier Backroads
So this one? https://www.napieroutdoors.com/shop/suv-minivan-tents/backroadz-suv-tent-19-series/
I don't see how that wouldn't work. There are also vestibules for cars that I'm sure would work fine on at TD, too:
https://www.amazon.com/ARB-813208A-Awning-Deluxe-ARB4402A/dp/B071NNY2G4/ref=asc_df_B071NNY2G4/
I'm betting either solution would fit because these tents and vestibules need to be able to work with a variety of different vehicles so they'd be adjustable enough to fit on the side of a TD.
I have this bolt on receiver hitch that the bike rack slides into mounted on the tongue. I tested turing my wheel as far as it'll go in both directions and barely had the bikes touch the bumper through the turn, and it wasn't a problem driving.
Here you go: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078T6SCW8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
They are 120 lbs each. Pretty powerful things!
That looks to me to be a ventilation issue more than a leak issue.
If it were mine to fix I'd get a trailer air dryer for storage and install a couple of clam vents, one on each side.
That is what my teardrop has and we live in the Canadian version of the PNW, so wet and humid all winter long. 10 years along and literally zero moisture issues. None at all.
Passive wall vent: https://www.etrailer.com/Enclosed-Trailer-Parts/Redline/HMAV2-AVT2.html
We LOVE our Gazelle pop up tent. Quick setup and an extra room. Stake it down if you live near Texas winds!
Gazelle G6 8 Person 6 Sided 124" Portable Canopy Screen Tent with Wind Panels https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GZVJB3H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_CiocGbCB9PXMH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/SPORTZ-BY-NAPIER-86000-Dome-To-Go/dp/B0016DBTNC
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it works great with my LG. I lose a little bit of space because i run the tent floor under the camper a bit so the rear stabilizer jacks hold it down. Have never staked it down this way and no issues with wind or rain. Was always nice being able to set clothing and other items out there and be inside from the elements still. I even once ran my buddy heater in there and pulled the heat thru the LG with the fantastic fan.
​
I may just buy another one and take better care of it, maybe if i store it indoors the zipper metal wont break down again....
Amazon of course. This link isn’t available any longer but I’m sure they’re not hard to come by. Pretty cheap Chinese product.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00M6INHGI/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I used this one in my teardrop:
https://www.amazon.com/LINENSPA-Inch-Innerspring-Mattress-Twin/dp/B0113977EI/
With a 2" memory foam topper. I was able to get both parts in reasonably easily, and personally I find it pretty comfortable.
Still in build phase, but we've been car-camping for years. Want a hot shower? Plop one of these on the roof in the sun for a couple of hours
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WFKP8QD/ref=cm\_sw\_r\_tw\_dp\_x\_uNnkFbFVG5NMT
We bought it from Amazon: Wenzel Magnetic Screen House, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B5C2LWP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.cwxFbR7CQZZ5 It’s a fantastic screen tent. The best part is instead of a zipper it has magnets, so makes it easier to enter/exit
I am probably going to put some gas springs to help lift it. If it is light enough, I leave them out as I would rather not pay for them. To hold up the hatch, I will use an over center hinge (I don't know what else to call it). I was going to make my own from aluminum rods and simple bushings, but these things use the concept:
Basically, the long hinge folds one way, but not the other. So as you pass the full extention of the hinge, it will come to a point where it will just stop and will stay near the full extension. To close, you need to pop the hinge to the other side where it can fold all the way closed. For mine, I will have two hinges in the corners with a rod to connect them for stability. The pipe will stop the rotation in the other direction and can be pulled to close the hatch. I'll try to sketch up an example if this is not clear.
Are there truck stops up in the mountains?
In ascending order: body wipes, baby wipes, wet washcloth, bucket of warm water and washcloth, hand filled bag shower, any number of propane powered portable shower units.
We use the hand filled bag shower. NEMO is the most often reviewed one but far less expensive knockoffs are available. This is the one we use, in Canada's far north. https://www.amazon.ca/WADEO-Portable-Outdoor-Pressure-Backpacking/dp/B07P9941TD
Just remember when planning a shower system of any sort in a teardrop you have have the capacity to carry the water needed. We use a collapsible hose and a 12V RV water pump and just filter the chunks out of the water from stream or lake for showers, washing the SUV and teardrop off so we can get in and out, etc thereby saving potable water for drinking and cooking.
If you have the resources (time, money,desire) to start over on that frame, perhaps tear off existing and start over. Look at door prices, etc. ( I hear homemade doors can be difficult). If so, buy (Tony Latham's](https://www.amazon.com/Building-Teardrop-Trailer-Crafting-Heirloom/dp/B083XVH9XQ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3KU7AG5MNX14R&keywords=Teardrop+Camper+book&qid=1666610838&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIyLjE5IiwicXNhIjoiMS44MyIsInFzcCI6IjEuNjQifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=tea...) book.
I would be ok with ratchet strap, but I would use footmans loops on each side instead of D-rings. They are lower profile and you can bolt them in instead of using the screws if you wanted them stronger.
Keeps mold and mildew away by not allowing the dew point to fall. Really helpful in winter around here. It is what allows us to keep our trailer packed and stocked.
Mine has these pneumatic, magnetic catches: https://www.amazon.com/Neoera-Hydraulic-Absorbent-Technology-Soft-Catch/dp/B08CXMJLSQ?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A237EF2TXPAXWE
You can fling the door open hard and it just goes tap, and holds in place.
I got this hanging scale I can hook to the hitch, to confirm my trailer tongue weight as I work on my build, might help as you adjust items forward: https://www.amazon.com/Outmate-Digital-Crane-600lbs-Aluminium/dp/B06X1GY9K4
ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00G6HT0AM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
These duck chairs are low to the ground, but comfortable. Ive used them daily for work, for several years.
Maybe not what you’re looking for, but worth mentioning.
That’s what I’m afraid of! Someone else suggested I buy something like this: axle kit. What do you think of that idea? The trailer itself really solid. Or is it not worth it?
Thru the door!! Is the door completely closed? I know that sounds obvious but mine I really have to pull on the door from the inside to get the passenger side door to latch. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01DC5PPWM?ref=nb_sb_ss_w_as-reorder-t1_ypp_rep_k0_1_4&amp=undefined&crid=3TTUC180WCEIX&sprefix=dehu&th=1
This is the one I have. It serves me, my husband, and 2 dogs. There is still come condensation but it does work. Sorry it's raining on your first trip. We always seem to end up packing up in the rain to leave.
I'd second the vote for a general-purpose cable gland but if you need to pass a larger connector through, the Blue Sea Systems CableClam (https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Sea-Systems-CableClam-1-40/dp/B000MMH1B2/) might suit your needs.
Trying to find some options on mounting a bike rack to my CLC teardrop and getting kind of nowhere and wondering if anyone had some suggestions..
I currently have a hitch rack where the bikes sit in there, I am looking to do this style of bike rack mostly since I guess you shouldn't use the bike rack that clamp to the top tube for a carbon bike and I do plan to get one of those some day, current bike is a road bike so very much not heavy
There isn't a lot of room between the box so I am kind of considering just getting rid of this stupidly large box I only have the battery in there I don't use it for much else but even then its not clear how I would install a bike rack in that space
I bought a hitch mounted bike rack but its a 1 1/4 hitch on my car and I guess you can't get an adapter that would effectively split that into two hitches although it does look like those exist for 2" receivers which I guess would have been nice to know before I got the hitch installed on my car, swapping is maybe possible but .. expensive..
not sure if its possible to weld another receiver onto the trailer frame up front? (I guess adding one to the rear is an option but the teardrop bounces around so much already I'm not sure how I feel cantilevering a somewhat heavy bike rack out the back)
I have been looking at rv frame mount racks like the Futura GP but it looks like I'd have to remove the box to get it to fit anyway but so far seems like the best option
Your right about the transmission issues. That would be my primary concern. For a cheap solution I would get an OBD reader and a phone app to go along with it. The cars computer should give you an ATF transmission temp readout in real-time. This will let you know if your pushing too hard and when it might be good to take a cooldown break. You should shop around but maybe something like this could work. I think tracking the temps would give you peace of mind too.
I bet it doesn't have the trailer brakes. Might be worth adding. The kit is like 400$ or so. Here is the etrailer website. Make sure you get the right ones and you can call the etrailer people they are helpful.
Awesome adventure OP! I hope there are many more in your future.
I am building right now and had a similar question. I calculated a nightly usage of 290 watt-hours to power a Maxx-air fan on medium, one 12v personal fan, a couple chargers, and LED lights. So, I got a 12v 40Ah LiFePO4.
It sounds like you have similar power requirements, so you should be good. Your battery is 600 watt-hours (12v x 50a), and so in ideal conditions may be able to just barely go two nights.
You are going to want a faster charger. I'd get something that can charger between 50-150 watts, so you can charge up your 600 watt-hour battery in 4-12 hours. A 12v charger most likely will have the amps advertised instead of the watts, so I'd look for a 5-15 amp 12v charger. I'll list one below.
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https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08Q3C8BYF/ref=ask_ql_qh_dp_hza
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A 100 watt solar set up likely wouldn't take your battery from 0-100 in a day, but it would add more than you would use in a day.
I’m not familiar with the tab setup but we use a trifold memory foam mattress from Amazon. Very comfortable & you can get it out of the camper to clean under periodically. Not sure if that would work for you. mattress
Just search on Amazon for 12VDC / 120VAC coolers. All the listings have sizes. This one is only 15L, but would fit: https://smile.amazon.com/AstroAI-Portable-Freezer-Refrigerator-Vehicle/dp/B088FDTTY4/?th=1 .
You want dual voltage so you can pre-cool it at home, is my thinking.
I am looking for one that fits in the back of my truck, and then I pull it out and put it next to my trailer (110V AC outlet on the outside). Perhaps you can do similar so that its only in that slot when you are onsite? And maybe slides out so you can open from the top. That way it wouldn't matter if it stuck out from the curved edge a bit.
My tongue box for the past 8/9 years has been a Rubbermaid Action Packer. Held up very well, a little road rash on the leading edge but otherwise pretty much dust and rain proof and 1/3 the weight of a metal tongue box while holding the same stuff.
https://www.amazon.ca/Rubbermaid-1949210-Actionpacker-Lockable-Storage/dp/B076CFRDWH
Absolutely. Can you pm me? I can send detailed pics of how I did it. These are slides I used.
AOLISHENG Heavy Duty Drawer Slides 32 Inch with Lock Full Extension Ball Bearing Locking Industrial Drawer Slides 3 Section Drawer Tracks and Runners 410 lb Load Capacity Side Mount 1 Pair https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08C588ZLP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_12AWTZG4NNY4G18GB0N8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I used 500lb slides from Amazon. Just make sure you order enough length to clear the door of the box it’ll go in. My cooler is only 29” but I needed 32” to close the door so the lid can open all the way.
AOLISHENG Heavy Duty Drawer Slides 32 Inch with Lock Full Extension Ball Bearing Locking Industrial Drawer Slides 3 Section Drawer Tracks and Runners 410 lb Load Capacity Side Mount 1 Pair https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08C588ZLP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_12AWTZG4NNY4G18GB0N8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
In case anyone sees the rest of your link broken, here's the short one that works for me: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00U9BHKM6
I have the similar one, that extends slightly with a built-in plastic-cloth sink: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07C3WK867
This one is so good, we decided to buy a 2nd (one for cooking station and one for washing station).
I use a 600w OUPES on my trailers. It has a better battery technology than mentioned product above and a better price at this point. I can charge by vehicle, solar, generator or shore power. I run two 60watt panels to keep it topped off. One thing to know about the solar generators is most have a max limit to input wattage to the unit. The Oupes is capable of 100watts max through the side port (although I have gotten more than that) and another 60 watts through the USB-C port.
Yeah I’m sure you can find some cheap plastic bins to do the same thing. I just had extra wood laying around so I built some quick and dirty boxes.
Another addition to this is we also had these mats down outside each door (the teardrop had a door on each side): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008S927GA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NSN2CHKKMNZB7JF4XPWS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Pinned them down with stakes and they were nice because they didn’t soak up water and you could go barefoot on them while taking off / putting on your shoes going in and out.
I really like my awning, it goes over the whole camper so I can store clothes on the camper roof and operate the fan even if it's raining
Versatility Teardrop Awning for SUV RVing, Car Camping, Trailer and Overlanding Light Weight Truck Canopy Durable Tear Resistant Tarp with 2 Sandbag https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ZKYSCOM/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_BY58BYBXSHAARPE5MDFA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I love my fan, super quiet on low settings powerful enough to suck the bugs onto the screen for easy killing on high
Maxxair (00-04000K) 12V Roof Top Fan/Vent https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0050EEO94/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_E0JQGBHV4EM6NR9RFK6H?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I did some other mods I like. I removed the sink it was too small to be useful but consumed counter space. I made a pull out piece for extra counter space, i installed an extra door (having just one sucks so bad)
When I started camping like this, i always made sure to charge the battery before going. Sometimes you forget a USB plug is drawing power, etc. You might want to to install one of these between the battery and the fuse box if it doesn't have one already.
I use this battery and have been very happy with it for 3 years now. I use a 100W solar panel with MPT controller to charge it up. Honestly never really gone below 80% or so. I keep it on a trickle charger in the winter.
Folding Mattress, Inofia Memory Foam Tri-fold Mattress with Ultra Soft Bamboo Cover, Non-Slip Bottom & Breathable Mesh Sides - Queen 6-Inch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QQ9JYSX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_696ZDT18F4D8VQCTGBG8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Here is a link to what we use: it attaches to the ARB awning. https://www.amazon.com/ARB-813108A-Awning-Deluxe-ARB4401A/dp/B071NP2QNC/ref=sr\_1\_2?crid=14THEX8V0DDDB&keywords=arb+awning+room+2500x2500&qid=1645644606&sprefix=%2Caps%2C242&sr=8-2
Mothers 05100 Mag & Aluminum Polish, 5 oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00068GEJM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2Q97RDZAZM0R6Q3HPQ29
Stuff works wonders, requires some elbow grease but will make all the aluminum look brand new
It's probably not worth the money, but could you put your extra battery under your hood or in the trunk, then hook it up when you set up camp? I'm thinking something like this set up: https://www.safaribooksonline.com/library/view/car-pc-hacks/0596008716/ch01s11.html
It'd free up the space in front of the trailer for your bikes.
For the humidity needs: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H0XFCS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
No camper myself (yet) but it claims to be good for 333 cubic feet. I put 2 in my tiny gun cabinet/safe (safe is an exaggeration for a glorified office cabinet with a key) in a garage, in south Florida, and have zero moisture issues. It is not air tight, humidity in the area is usually very high. 1 or 2 of these might do the trick in a teardrop.
I'm a fan of 1) lowering the air pressure in the tires a bit, say 20% and 2) putting the trailer up on proper jacks to take weight off the tires/wheels and suspension.
If you are on concrete at least place a barrier between the tire and the concrete, lengths of 2x6 work but so does a foam pad.
We also remove, clean and reset before we walk away for the winter because you never know when the ski hill might call. I leave a RV air dryer in and on all winter so zero issues with moisture, mould, mildew.
We leave paper products, bedding, towels, etc in and this thing keeps it all fine with nothing to empty or refill or whatever. https://www.amazon.ca/Stor-Dry-9406CAABX-Warm-Air-Circulator/dp/B0009L675W/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Stor-Dry+Warm+Air+Circulator&qid=1634254667&sr=8-2
I am using a number of ports on this model:
Each “channel” can be independently controlled. I use the cigarette lighter for my water pump, the 2.1mm pigtails for all lighting/USB ports/fan (dual in the front, dual in the galley) and the additional USB ports if necessary.
With LED power draw you can run one pigtail to a breakout block and have multiple out leads since each port can support 4 amps.
Additionally, I can either remove it to charge with AC or run the foldable solar panel wherever I stay. The nice thing about a portable solar panel is you can move it to the sun and keep the trailer in the shade.
That type would not work because it couldn't attach to the edge of the hatch, it has to attach 4 feet back on the roof making the awing cover the hatch itself not the aera behind the hatch where you would stand
We have an not to expensive beach/suv/minivan tent style awning that doesn't mount, but has to be deployed that does a similar thing but at least it's like 11 feet long so it still covers a big area behind and even around the hatch.
Maybe a nice bluetooth speaker? It's not strictly teardrop related, but it's a nice, cheap way to give your teardrop a sound system for music and he could take it everywhere.
A small, portable folding table could also be incredibly useful.
If that's the Coleman cooler I'm thinking of, the power usage is high because it's using a thermoelectric (peltier) junction that's pretty much always on. I can't recommend these, since they only cool about 40 degrees below ambient temperature.
A 12v refrigerator uses an actual compressor that cycles on/off as needed, and will maintain a cold inside in nearly all conditions. Smaller units can be found under $300 nowadays.
On our homemade teardrop, we used a hurricane hinge that extended a bit past the edge of the roof. But rain would flow into the galley when we'd open the door. We added a rubber, stick-on gutter to our galley door facing such that it would catch water when the door was open. I think our hurricane hinge got overwhelmed catching water from both sides so the additional gutter helped. Used the same gutters over our side doors. https://www.amazon.com/Trim-Lok-Drip-Rail-White-Height/dp/B08HRPMH86
The Pamapic! It had been a lifesaver. It really is easy up easy down. Make sure to buy the side panels as it doesn't come with them. About $350 all in.
Pamapic 12’ x 12’ Portable Pop-up... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08ZCPNRMN?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
A big problem is also people don't seem to maintain them so they quickly become worn out looking.
Speaking of, whatever you get, this stuff is fantastic:
303 UV Protectant Spray - Ultimate UV Protection - Helps Prevent Fading And Cracking - Repels Dust, Lint, and Staining - Restores Lost Color And Luster, 1 Gallon (30320) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00L4TF32G/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_XKCECCHYYZF9TCNV38DS
And this for getting micro scratches out of the windows or cleaning yellowed solar panels (if you get any - check out misc videos/posts for details) :
NOVUS 7100 Plastic Polish Kit - 8 Ounce https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B002UCYRZU/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_8ST1MF3FZW304A8SDGGV?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Like the others said you need to put the bolts through the side. Using a stepped drill bit for metal will eat right through that metal, makes that job a lot quicker.
Neiko 10193A Titanium Step Drill Bit Set, High Speed Steel | 3-Piece Set | Total 28 Sizes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001OEPYWK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_BQM08CJWFG9YKZG474WK
Old school trickle chargers provided float and bulk charging and were fine when lead acid batteries were $59.95 with the exchange of your old worn battery.
Today, the newest and best trickle chargers are digital, provide the same bulk and float but also run a desulfation cycle.
In the simplest of terms desulfation is scrubbing the plates of deposits so that optimum performance is maintained.
My 4 amp NOCO trickle charger takes 3 full days and nights to complete the cycles, pulsing red to pulsing green to steady green. The battery was the least expensive one I could find at Walmart 10 years ago that provided reasonable amp hours. My mechanic and his $2,000 tester tells me it remains at 87% at 10 years old.
today, batteries are hundreds of dollars while that NOCO is well under $100 and gives me a high functioning battery ten years later.
I see NOCO has a 5 amp one, temperature compensation, 6V/12V/12V AGM/ 12V Lithium for just over $100 CAN.
buy it, you won't be disappointed.
Interesting, thanks u/Anabeer. If I understand correctly (which I'm not saying I necessarily do), a 4 amp charger would day ~ 1 day (25 hrs) to charge a 100 ah battery, right? So if you have four (4) 100-ah batteries, it'll take a full 4 days to charge?
This one doesn't seem half bad, but I know nothing about these: https://www.amazon.com/NOCO-GEN5X2-Fully-Automatic-Temperature-Compensation/dp/B08G3STB1N/ref=zg_bs_3397951_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=1A1NVD5FYV9K0J18FFF3
I'm entering my 10th years with our 5x8. It is only insulated in the roof and hatch, the rest is single layer of plywood, sides and floor. Skinned with 040 aluminum. We have never been cold in it, even when I'm out solo above 3-4,000 feet in early spring with sub zero overnights.
We've been up to the ski hill, out east with high heat/humidity and it lives on northern Vancouver Island, temperate rain forest space. Mildew capitol of Canada too.
We use a Stor Dry Warm Air Circulator when it is in storage and can leave all clothing, bedding, towels, etc in it year round with zero mold or mildew.
Ours is 5x8, I do wish it was 5x10...that extra galley space would be nice.
Think of the "look" you want, bed liner gives a very specific vibe, eh?
I got this 8" memory foam mattress in 2017 and it it awesome. We sleep so well. Having a good night's sleep was very important to us and this does the trick. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006L9U4PK/
This is where I got the pieces I used to keep the pipe from moving: https://www.amazon.com/Nilight-90027B-Horizontal-Mounting-Warranty/dp/B07TNH72SG
And here’s a link to the straps. https://www.amazon.com/Kwik-Bandit-All-Weather-Industrial-Equipment/dp/B07SBJQYKW
Wow thats a lotta power! We have about 350 W of panels and a 170 Ah LiFePo4 battery for our tiny vintage trailer (120V tiny dorm fridge, lights, phones, tablets, laptop, TV and even small AC for a couple hours if needed) and were told that we overpowered. Thats a big battery that should last for days.
Yeah I got one of these for a dish rack drying space: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K7S9PNC/ and I do use it as well, but I love my buckets.
Wolfwise has lots of models, but this is the one we use: https://www.amazon.com/WolfWise-Privacy-Tent-Changing-Black/dp/B0716HQXST/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=wolfwise+pop+up+tent&qid=1618423816&sprefix=wolfw&sr=8-8
I have The Handmade Teardrop Trailer: Design & Build a Classic Tiny Camper from Scratch by Matt Berger
Some good ideas in there that I'll be using on mine when I start it.
I also bought this book and found it very informative:
One thing I love is my switchable red-white ceiling light. Red seems to attract less bugs and helps keep my eyes adjusted to darkness for those nights that I do astronomy.
I just used clear paint protection film on my painted fiberglass fenders. I never got any chips on mine. It was something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Paint-Protection-Bulk-25-inches/dp/B00B3IXSMA
You could also get them coated in LineX bed liner or something similar if you like that look.
Easy solution for camp grounds is one of these and an extension cord.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B074LVQK8H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_ABB9JZ3DNZ3452GJGKAS
If you want to get fance with it, you can do what u/pudding7 suggested as well (I would)
Also, most camp grounds in my area have a regular outlet on the power hookup anyway so the 30amp adapter may not even be necessary.
We got this one for $30 and it was awesome. It's small but works great to heat the cabin and only draws like 4-5 amps. I uses the round "cigarette lighter" port (I built my camper, and I installed those parts at the foot of the bed with a hook to hold the cord). https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009Y2CFS/
Here you go. My only issue with it is you only have on or off. No timer or anything. Other than that it's great in our opinion.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009Y2CFS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_c6IcmXcOxp7Cv
I found these on Amazon, looks like a good price but i think they are for a Right Hand Door, my teardrop will have 2 doors so i will need a Right hand and a Left hand
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00IV1ZVL8/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&psc=1
I’d love that book for a coffee table reader but it’s a bit pricey, $24.30 on Amazon.
Most people in the van building world are getting the 6kW-10kW but that's overkill. I know that HappyBuy has been around for a long time.
2kW or 3kW would be plenty (don't oversize these as you don't want them turning on and off a lot). The only thing that fails on these things is the glow plug and then it just stops working (in fact a lot of people order a glow plug to keep on hand for that reason). If installed correctly, there is not really an opportunity to be unsafe. In the van world, these are by far and away the safest option.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07LFXMNMD
https://m.facebook.com/groups/146837062640024/
This is a Facebook group where people talk about what brands are best and how to fix.
Get the 12volt electric blanket. It plugs into the "cig lighter" port and pulls under 5 amps. Way better and safer than a space header. I got this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009Y2CFS/
Something to store dirty shoes in so you don't dirty up the camper?
Maybe a raised platform by the door, even a palette would so. Get up out of the dirt/mud/snow.
Oh - and what outback do you have? The Outback CVT is not known as a good towing transmission - you’ll need to keep your trailer light (<1000lbs) or install a transmission cooler and get a trailer with brakes.
Here’s the teardrop trailer book - https://www.amazon.com/Building-Teardrop-Trailer-Crafting-Heirloom/dp/B083XVH9XQ
You can contact the author on the TNTTT site.
Off grid with solar power at my cabin for 20 years now.
You are correct that a conventional solar panel and batt would add weight and thus reduce gas mileage to your teardrop.
The reason for having solar is if you are doing longer trips or will be camping in the outback and you don't want to run a genny or take a chance on draining your vehicle battery.
Running an AC unit in a teardrop off a genny has always seemed ridiculous to me and you can park a teardrop under the trees and use a fan or micro swamp cooler run off DC, but that is just me.
If hooked up correctly you can use your vehicle battery for running lights, fan and laptop and a small foldup solar panel to recharge the battery during the day.
I use this one to keep my truck batt charged in winter and has a built in power controller with idiot lights to tell you if the batt is full, low or charging:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EB3PE0I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Looks like it is currently sold out but you can find something similar. I like that one because it has a fold out support and I have used it every day for 3 years now without any problems.
For about $60 it is peace of mind when camping that I won't drain the battery and be stranded and you can use it to keep your vehicle batts charged in winter.
I use this cover for mine. The cover works great, but after only 6 months the top ripped down the whole length. They sent me another one under warranty, but I am not confident this one won't do the same thing. 0/10 would not recommend.
I store mine along side my house with a wheel lock, ball lock, and hitch pin lock. I also have a blink camera on it. I am in a relatively safe city though so I am not too worried about theft. I also do have jack stands so it is not resting on the tires.
Solar panel is light weight. I got these aluminum brackets https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KV30GIC/ and like them. Only 4 lag bolts and they go into 2x2s in the ceiling anyways. Although I found I never needed to tilt them since the recharge was fast once it got into the sun.
Luci lights. I'm sure they are cheaper at .com https://www.amazon.ca/MPOWERD-Luci-Original-Inflatable-Solar/dp/B00DQ1RDWS
leave them laying around in the sun all day, they run all night if you want.
although those multi coloured rope lights protect you from the bears and wolves...they see those and they know you have no taste so they move on.
I'm in the Canadian version of the PNW...northern Vancouver Island. We get all the rain you do plus as we are right on the coast out of the rain shadow of the Beaufort mountains.
we use a 10x10 EZ Up that fits over our hatch and sill leaves sufficient room to sit, read, watch Netflix, etc while you wait out a rain event.
If it is wind driven rain squall then I had a marine upholstery shop make me two "tarps" out of the white vinyl screen stuff they use on boats. These things knock rain down and reduce wind to a breeze. If we need to close off the third opening I just use a normal tarp.
https://www.amazon.ca/Z-UP-SR9104BL-Sierra-10-Feet/dp/B000NRPN8E
You can spend what you want on a canopy...our was around $100CAN and has lasted 7-8 years of regular use including a 3 month road trip across Canada and a month in the far north, up past the Arctic circle to the Beaufort sea (Arctic Ocean).
I use AGM sealed for my off grid cabin. 125AH and the ones designed for solar.
The card table/umbrella idea is good, but make sure you try it out. Glare on a PC screen can be really bad. If you tow vehicle is decent size you could also look at a set up for that, there are many options for traveling sales people /
Things like this
I'm looking at this one (with shunt for highly accurate readings)
I'm actually a stay-at-home dad, and yes, my wife does realize I'm the guy who gets stuff done. That's why I'm with the kids!
When I had to use the jigsaw to cut the foam, I used the shopvac, and that really helped cut down on the foam scraps, but yes, that stuff makes a huge mess.
As for the hot-wire, I actually used the gun style, like this. Iron
I took out the tip, and bent a section of copper wire to the shape I wanted, and put it in the gun. The fumes weren't great, and I definitely tried to only do it outside, or at least have the garage door open. I wouldn't want to do it inside the house, for sure.
It does.... quite a bit. That's what pushed me over to cheap cover in the end. Picked up. Camco 45761 8'-10' ULTRAGuard Pop-Up Camper Cover (46"H x 87"W) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001IZKDZS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_w3FVDbAGHR3AM