Things to know before you buy a Cargo trailer to convert into a Camper
So you saw your neighbors roll in with a shiny new cargo trailer. They invite you over to check it out and WOW – it’s a camper – a lovely tiny home on wheels. OMG it’s adorable and you want one, so and you decide that you would like to build your own cargo camper. Here are things to know before you run out to buy a Cargo trailer to convert into a camper.
But before you run out to buy a trailer to convert into a camper, you should take a few things into consideration. Not all trailers are created equal and some will not suit your needs. So reading this article could save you time, money and headaches down the road.
Thickness of Outside Skin
Trailers are built with either .024 or .030 aluminum skin. The thicker skin .030 skin will be more durable and less likely to bend, ding or show “oil canning”.
Things to know before you buy a trailer to convert into a camper –
Wall Stud Spacing
Studs that are 16 inch or 24 inch on center are the most common. Studs that are spaced more closely at 16″ will be more sturdy when they are rumbling down the highway.
Roof Material
The best leak-proof roof you can get will be a one piece aluminum room that wraps down the sides of the trailer and is sealed.
Plywood Interior and Floors
3/8″ plywood floors and 3/4″ plywood walls are preferred over any kind of particle or strand board.
Header Caps made of Fiberglass
Header caps can be made of plastic or fiberglass but of course fiberglass is more durable.
Things to know before you buy a trailer to convert into a camper –
Quality Durable Axle
A quality axle will last longer and it will also be easier to find parts for a quality axle. A Dexter Torsel Torsion Axel comes with a 10 year warranty.
Spring Assist Rear Door Ramps
This is the mechanism that makes it easier and safer to open and close your ramp door. These doors can be heavy and this is something that you appreciate literally every time your open or close your ramp door.
Warranty
Be sure to read the warranty – even the fine print and make sure the axle is covered under the warranty.
Trailer is painted and sealed to resist elements
Trailers that are painted and or sealed will be more water resistant.
Other things to consider before you buy a trailer to convert into a camper
- Steel or Aluminum – Aluminum will not rust – but your will pay more for it.
- V-Nose or flat nose – The V-nose will give you about 2 more feet of space, although it may be difficult to work with depending on your camper design. The V-Nose will nose be a wind-breaker and help with gas mileage, as the tow vehicle will be punching through the wind (not the trailer).
- Radial or Bias ply tires – Radial tires may cost a bit more but they will last longer and give you an added confidence on the road.
- Standard height or custom height – 6 foot high is the most common height. Of course, if you are 6’4″ you may want to go with a 7′ high ceiling.
- Flat or rounded roof – a rounded roof will repel water better.
- Screw or screwless – In a screwless design, the aluminum will be fastened on with some kind of glue or adhesive. This will be more appealing, to the eye however, some people are concerned that the integrity of the adhesive may not work as well as screws.
- Ramp or Barn doors – This is a matter of preference, you design idea and intended use. If you are planning on hauling a motorcycle, then of course, you will opt for the ramp doors.
- Size of the Tow vehicle.– Before you purchase a trailer, know the weight that your tow vehicle can handle.
Be sure to check online for for some great building ideas. Here is a link to our youtube channel Cargo On Cargo Conversion Build & Camp to get you started with your build after purchasing a trailer to convert into a camper.
