Building a wooden micro-camper

Sdílet
Vložit
  • čas přidán 4. 12. 2020
  • In this video, I transform a rusted and worn Harbor Freight, 4x8 trailer into a super lightweight wooden trailer. Then I used it for my summer job and towed it 21,000 miles over 107 days. $650 total build. It towed easily with my four cylinder car. The window air conditioner was far more than needed for keeping it cool on a warm summer night even though it wasn't insulated. I lived in this camper full-time from June 2020 to January 2021.
    #microcamper #tinycamper #smallcamper #diycamper #camping #homemadecamper #smallcamper #tinycamper

Komentáře • 404

  • @flisms
    @flisms Před 2 lety +15

    Screws and glues!!! 21,000 miles!!!?? Really? That's crazy! I love watching small trailer build videos. Yours was a unique approach. Enjoyed it.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +4

      Thanks for checking out the vid. Greatly appreciated. In my one-year review video, of that camper, you can see the damage from where a semi truck backed into the camper. It held up really well. I've learned to trust glue very much in woodwork after building cabinets and such over the years. Often the glue is so strong that it will rip the wood from a surface when forced apart from another surface. Plus I'm always broke, so I had to build cheap hahaha!

  • @martinhernandez6506
    @martinhernandez6506 Před 3 lety +3

    Good evening Mike, thanks for sharing your awesome build ! It doing what you wanted it to do ! That's all that matters, keep smiling !

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety +1

      Thank you sir, and thanks for watching!

  • @bonniface-qd9ux
    @bonniface-qd9ux Před 14 dny

    Excellent job. Simple but smart. I'm impressed and I'm sure I will use your blueprint to get some ideas. Genius

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 13 dny

      Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @JelvinCS
    @JelvinCS Před 3 lety +29

    I love the simplicity of your build! You have inspired me to try that out myself :D

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you, and thanks for checking out the video. I hope it helps with your build. It would be great to see your results once you're finished.

  • @colinlawrence2186
    @colinlawrence2186 Před 2 lety +4

    That is one awesome little trailer thank you so much for sharing it in detail I'm sure you are an inspiration to many people
    God bless you and stay safe out there 🙋‍♂️ 🇬🇧

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you for checking out the vid! God bless you too, my friend.

  • @COMtnPilot
    @COMtnPilot Před 3 lety +5

    Solid work Brotha! Love the build! 👍🏼🇺🇸

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you and thanks for checking out my vid!

  • @Tsiri09
    @Tsiri09 Před 3 lety +1

    Looks wonderful!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you ma'am, and thanks for watching!

  • @garyarbogast6703
    @garyarbogast6703 Před 3 lety +1

    Very nice! Simple, light weight, easy to tow, affordable, dependable. Who could ask for anything more?

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you sir. And thanks for watching!

  • @arunsai3358
    @arunsai3358 Před 2 lety +8

    This simple and great at the same time 😊
    Would love to see what you did inside, like bed and cabinets

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Check out this video for a good view of the inside. czcams.com/video/4lD_obdALDg/video.html
      I didn't finish the inside. I just put a mattress right on the wood and rolled with it. Thanks for checking out the video, and safe travels to you!

  • @allancarn7863
    @allancarn7863 Před 2 lety +1

    Just watched your video on 9/14. Great job great idea of pull out rear door. I will experiment this concept of a back room extension concept. Cheers Al

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you, and thanks for checking out my build. That's a great idea for the back room extension. I'd love to see what you come up with. I'm thinking the next one I build will have slide out kitchen shelves.

  • @johnw65
    @johnw65 Před 2 lety

    Great Job! Thanks for sharing

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you, sir. And thanks for checking out the video.

  • @CrudelyMade
    @CrudelyMade Před 17 dny

    I like the approach of wooden dowel pins , sliding door frame, etcetera.. simple, neat ideas. that might have other potential uses.:-)

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 16 dny

      Thanks for checking out the trailer!

  • @videomejoe
    @videomejoe Před 3 lety +1

    Nice job Mike, smart build.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thanks, my friend. Thanks for watching as well.

  • @mikem9006
    @mikem9006 Před 2 lety +1

    Outstanding video, very informative, looks like a project I want to do for camping!!!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you! Thanks for checking out the video, too. I hope your camper build goes smooth!

  • @TeezerDriz
    @TeezerDriz Před 6 měsíci

    ❤ fabulous job.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 6 měsíci

      Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @kcb5336
    @kcb5336 Před 2 lety +7

    So glad I clicked this vid. Been binge watching builds and the thumbnail on this isn’t that impressive.
    That rear door pulling out a little before it hinges is absolutely brilliant!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for checking out the video, my friend! Greatly appreciated!

    • @logmeindangit
      @logmeindangit Před 2 lety

      Just a thought, here: if you used hinges with a 90-degree bend to locate the pivot point (pin) at the back inner edge of the side walls, while having the door still be recessed, would that have worked? That way you wouldn't have needed to put the doors on sliders, even though that seemed to be an ingenious solution.
      Also, did you weigh the trailer when it was complete, and then again when loaded? Small cars are often rated to tow only very modest weights, around 500 lbs.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +3

      @@logmeindangit Thanks for the questions. The door slider method was kind of a desperation move during the build. From the beginning of the build, there were two goals I didn't want to compromise on. One was a recessed door so that the metal roof would overlap and help keep the weather out. The other was a clean, minimal-hardware look of the rear doors from the outside. I wanted the doors to look as 'all-wood' as possible, like the sidewalls.
      Though I should have filmed the failures, I tried to mount hinges six times in as many configurations. The biggest issue was that when the door was mounted by hinge to the furthest stud in the rear, in the recessed position, the outside edge of the door would push into the sidewall plywood and stifle it from opening more than a quarter of the way when I tried to open it. There was a bind. Then I thought of using kitchen cabinet hinges for the way they operate, but since they're countersunk I'd need thicker, heavier doors, or heavier framing on the inside of the rear doors (*granted the sliders aren't exact light). Still, the sliders may be lighter than a thicker sheet of plywood for a door.
      Another thing I found was that the top of my sidewalls are curved inward to allow the sheet metal to overlap one inch on either side. When I tried hinges alone, this curve in the sidewalls and the doors created a fitment issue and there was too much of a gap once the doors were closed.
      Overall, hinges alone would work for the rear doors but I learned you'd end up seeing the framing used to hold the hinges, and it would be less finished looking, or you'd sacrifice most of your roof overlap.
      One of these days, I'll weigh that thing. A lot of people have asked about that. I've been hauling motorcycles on trailers, by car, for years without issue so I figured my car would pull it alright. Heck, I have no idea what my car's towing capacity is haha.
      I am very grateful you chose to share your thought and it was worthy of a detailed response. All the best.

  • @jackmahones3855
    @jackmahones3855 Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks mike well done. Inspired me to make one myself

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you sir, and that's awesome to hear! I hope your build goes great

  • @rogermuir3514
    @rogermuir3514 Před 2 lety +1

    Good job!!👍👍 nice and light trailer.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you sir, and thanks for checking out the video

  • @persistent25u
    @persistent25u Před 2 lety +2

    Great job, I really like your camper!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you, and thanks for watching!

  • @houstonsheltonbees814
    @houstonsheltonbees814 Před 2 lety +1

    Great job man 👍 thanks

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for checking out the vid!

  • @johnnyhall4856
    @johnnyhall4856 Před 3 lety +2

    Thats AWESOME!!!brother 👍

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety +1

      Thank you sir. Thanks for checking out the vid!

  • @joshuaclewes1883
    @joshuaclewes1883 Před 7 měsíci +1

    I love the Saab!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 7 měsíci

      Thanks for checking out the video. It's been a good car and was great for pulling the trailer. This past January it broke a balance shaft guide, but I fixed it and it's still kicking. 183,000 miles so far.

  • @disciplemaker7488
    @disciplemaker7488 Před rokem

    Love the look!

  • @toddbartel6300
    @toddbartel6300 Před 2 lety

    I got a 7x 14 old camper frame. Strengthened the corners and added a extra piece of metal on back too protect rear bumper. Had the wheels moved from inside too outside too ma,e it easy for tire changing. Got 3/4 inch plywood for flooring. Finish it in spring time. Mine will have shower toilet and a bed with a sink too plus cooking area. Insulate it too. Nice build

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Sounds like a great project you have going there. I like that you're putting in all the accessories, too. Would be cool to see how it turns out. Thanks for checking out the video and my build.

  • @brucefiset5736
    @brucefiset5736 Před 3 lety +1

    Good job, well done.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thanks you sir. Thanks for watching

  • @eutimiochavez415
    @eutimiochavez415 Před 3 lety +1

    U did a great job!

  • @tonygallo8570
    @tonygallo8570 Před 2 lety +2

    Did an absolute wonderful job it does its purpose looks great

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you sir. And thanks for checking out the video.

  • @workinonlifetilidie
    @workinonlifetilidie Před 3 lety

    Looks clean bud great job

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you sir, and thanks for watching

  • @palletwoodcamper
    @palletwoodcamper Před rokem +1

    some good ideas thank you, helps me with my build planning

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem +1

      Anything I can do to help, is the goal. Thanks for checking out my video.
      I watched your video and that wooden teardrop is hands-down the best looking teardrop I've ever seen. You guys did a FANTASTIC job building it! I feel like such an amateur hahaha! Take care

    • @palletwoodcamper
      @palletwoodcamper Před rokem

      @@mikekrabal thx mike , the image is our ideal looking camper but due to my monility scooter ere hsving to make a squaredrop , it remains coloured as shown and made all from pallet wood , hence wht your video caught my eye. I think its gonna end up like yours from the eternal shape, but some fancy wood cosmetics will make it more retro .. :)

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem

      Oh, I see. My mistake. May your build turn out great! I hope you will continue too share it with us on CZcams. Thanks!

  • @OhighOSkater
    @OhighOSkater Před 3 lety +5

    I think I’m going to build something like this. I want to take a trip to California and something like this would be perfect for my little Acura 3.2TL. It will be a lot cheaper than hotel rooms the whole way lol. I hope that trailer is treating you well

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety +2

      Awesome! I wish you the best on your build and your road trip. Thanks for watching!

  • @pprattpratt
    @pprattpratt Před 3 lety +12

    Love the sliders for the doors, gives me some ideas for my next trailer build..great job on the camper..

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety +3

      Thank you sir. Thanks for watching. I'm thinking about doing a slide out kitchen on the next build. Would be cool to see what you come up with, too.

    • @llbailey9946
      @llbailey9946 Před 8 měsíci

      ​@mikekrabal I'm not totally grasping the door slide. I see it for closing, but when open the door the hinge looks like it will bind prior?

  • @darylbeyersdorf7932
    @darylbeyersdorf7932 Před 3 lety +3

    I've read several comments and you have answered several questions in detail. . Awesome...

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you. I hope those details will help others in their builds. Thank you for watching, as well.

  • @stephanfrank7763
    @stephanfrank7763 Před 2 lety +1

    Hallo Mike, thank you for this video. Without a professional garage or workshop, without professionell (and expensive) tools. Building a camper like normal people do. Many thanks for not rtying to sell plans for teardrop caravans. ;o)

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you, sir for checking out the video . I appreciate it, and I hope it's useful to others. There's no limit to what we can build as long as we have the will to do so. I do finally have a garage to build in, but it took me 40 years to get one haha. My tools are all about the same though. I'm building the next one now. Hopefully it will be done soon. All the best to you!

  • @AssortedVideosforALL
    @AssortedVideosforALL Před měsícem

    this more simple video than all the others... thanks much

  • @dottiec8002
    @dottiec8002 Před 3 lety +1

    WOW, you are really talented.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you, my friend! I hope you enjoyed the build.

  • @manowar4046
    @manowar4046 Před 6 měsíci

    Good job.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 6 měsíci

      Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @fredfreiberger7878
    @fredfreiberger7878 Před rokem

    Thanks I appreciate what you shared

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem

      Thanks for checking out the video. Sorry for the late response. I just discovered a list of comments I'd never seen and I'm replying.

  • @kingwah9009
    @kingwah9009 Před 2 lety

    Great journey , at a great cost , the destination is closer

  • @bajar.m.6953
    @bajar.m.6953 Před 2 lety +1

    Don’t forget to check the wheels bearings and spare tire. I see a lots of trailers on the highway with a missing wheel. Great job 👏

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Good call! I did replace a wheel bearing in Tennessee. I forgot to mention that in my follow-up video. Thank you and thanks for checking out the video!

  • @cuernavacadave
    @cuernavacadave Před 9 měsíci

    Great little trailer. I’m always looking for something that my corolla will haul. I kick my butt 1000 time for selling my Boler!! Hind sight is 2020! Great job, thanks for sharing.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 9 měsíci +1

      Thanks for checking out the video! My saab towed that thing easily over 20,000 miles.

  • @ingridhansen8278
    @ingridhansen8278 Před 2 lety

    Awesome!

  • @eltonkatana3718
    @eltonkatana3718 Před 2 lety +1

    Sei un grande! Hai la mia totale stima!

  • @samuelhelderman
    @samuelhelderman Před 3 lety +1

    Such a great video. I subbed

  • @OverlandTrailer
    @OverlandTrailer Před 2 lety

    Nice work Mike. Refurbing a Harbor Freight trailer is never fun. You made it better than new. A fun build.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you. The next build, I'm starting with a new trailer haha. I'm going to go have a look at your channel. All the best.

  • @doneown503
    @doneown503 Před 2 lety

    Very nice !

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for checking out the video

  • @1ico007
    @1ico007 Před 2 lety

    Great job mate, ecstatically wonderful but structurally inadequate.

  • @thomasholiday4094
    @thomasholiday4094 Před 2 lety

    Proud of you both.

  • @canadiansaabfreak6530
    @canadiansaabfreak6530 Před 2 lety

    Love the SAAB!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks. It's been a good little car so far. Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @mr.chaosvicious5968
    @mr.chaosvicious5968 Před 5 měsíci

    One of the things I would have done is upgraded the plywood on the sides from 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
    Yes, it MAY have added a bit of cost and weight to the camper, BUT it would have also been sturdier than the 1/2 and it would have added just a bit more strength and rigidity to the camper.
    I say that because I was always taught (by my papa and some other older folks that I knew) to take whatever you are going to build components and take them up at least a notch, possibly two, to ensure the longevity and strength in whatever you built and that it won't just fall apart on you.

  • @emilflognoid1532
    @emilflognoid1532 Před rokem

    Beauty!!

  • @yavasrodrigo
    @yavasrodrigo Před 2 lety

    Nice job man.

  • @Curt100
    @Curt100 Před rokem

    I love it bro!

  • @ytfeverguy8367
    @ytfeverguy8367 Před 2 lety

    Nice build.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for checking out the video

  • @mikethefenceguy
    @mikethefenceguy Před 2 lety

    Badass sir. The ending is hilarious

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for checking out the video

  • @F-N-C
    @F-N-C Před 9 měsíci

    Well, I'm about to attempt to build this. Fingers crossed lol

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 9 měsíci

      I wish you the best on the build. It will be a solid unit.
      In 2020, a semi truck driver backed into mine while I was sleeping in it. It was 1:30am. Scared me to death. Thought I was going to be crushed. Instead the camper just pushed sideways and didn't collapse in. Saved my life.
      I hope to see your finished product. Feel free to reach out when you're done. Thanks for watching!

  • @patrickjobling8676
    @patrickjobling8676 Před 2 lety

    Gotta tellya pilgrim .. thats a super nice lil camper ..i canny wait furr mark 2..😁pip pips and carryon pilgrim

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank ya, sir. And a big thanks for checking out the video!

  • @flexapex9801
    @flexapex9801 Před 2 lety

    Oh I love the trailer I have an old harbor freight rotting in my backyard I think I’m gonna following your lead.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks for checking out the video! I appreciate the kind words and wish you the best on your build! It would be great if you post your build in a video as well so we all can enjoy it. Thanks again!

  • @lindaSee89
    @lindaSee89 Před rokem

    Wow beautiful

  • @flyinggyros9745
    @flyinggyros9745 Před 3 lety

    Very nice.

  • @averagecamper695
    @averagecamper695 Před 3 lety +9

    Nice Job. I'd like to see how you finished out the inside.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety +8

      Thank you, and thanks for watching. I built that thing in a time crunch, as I needed it for work. I only finished putting wood panels on the ceiling. Later on, I put an AC in it. It's still barebones on the inside.

    • @jeepsanddragons
      @jeepsanddragons Před 3 lety

      I also would like that

  • @johnw65
    @johnw65 Před 2 lety +1

    With lumber going crazy, that 1/4" ply is looking good! I'm thinking of making foam-laminate with 1/4" ply both sides and framing doors and windows with wood as well as a more conventional roof like you made. Notching foam and inner ply then glue and screw from outside. What's the details on your roof metal?

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      That sounds like a solid plan. I'd also like to build with more materials to keep the heat out and the cool in.
      That roof is 26 gauge galvanized sheet metal. The same stuff they use for duct work. I got it at Ferguson supply in 2020 for about $49, I think. It's a 4x10' sheet.

  • @sunnyscott4876
    @sunnyscott4876 Před 3 lety +37

    I'd like to see how it holds up after a couple of years of use.

    • @tommysimmons5266
      @tommysimmons5266 Před rokem +1

      Really, you take it somewhere and hide

    • @thistexanspov6337
      @thistexanspov6337 Před rokem +19

      Hey if you get even 1 year for $650 what more could you ask for

    • @Itried20takennames
      @Itried20takennames Před 9 měsíci +7

      @@thistexanspov6337Totally agree….if it falls apart after a year or two, already paid for itself and someone who likes building will probably have ideas for and want to build a “new, improved” version anyway.
      Don’t think he is building it to ride out the apocalypse…just for a comfortable cheap place to sleep while traveling.

    • @Ziro666cpm
      @Ziro666cpm Před 5 měsíci

      @@Itried20takennamesit’ll be good as long as he maintains it iv had a wooden trailer for a few years and I maintain it like cutting new bords out when something splits

    • @Lappillainen
      @Lappillainen Před 2 měsíci

      If it is towed only in sunnu days It shoul hold

  • @toomanychickens1771
    @toomanychickens1771 Před 3 lety

    That's a great job, no fucking around, just get it done, and what a brilliant solution for the doors!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      Thank you, and thanks for watching!

  • @phjohnso
    @phjohnso Před 6 měsíci

    really love this super nice camper video - can I license this for reuse please??

  • @Melicoy
    @Melicoy Před 9 měsíci

    nice

  • @robertoler3795
    @robertoler3795 Před 2 lety

    well done

  • @deepsouthNZ
    @deepsouthNZ Před 2 lety

    Nice

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @sic-n-tiredtired4273
    @sic-n-tiredtired4273 Před 2 měsíci

    That came out awesome nice job.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 měsíci

      Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @solarpoweredboat
    @solarpoweredboat Před 2 lety

    Great micro camper, and video- thanks
    What will you do differently next time??????
    Thanks

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you for checking out the video. It's greatly appreciated.
      On the next build, I plan to make a one-piece rear door, and a slide out kitchenette setup on the opposite side of the camper as the door hinge. I plan for larger windows on the side and a window in the rear door for a more fun/whimsical look, and I'd like to incorporate an outside shower somehow for multi-day camping. The shape of the side panels may be modified to include more rounded edges for a more fun look. It's all about making fun, functional, and economical projects.

  • @psdaengr911
    @psdaengr911 Před 3 měsíci

    Should have sealed the surfaces and edges of the plywood before mounting it to the steel frame. The plies of that interior grade plywood will convey moisture and delaminate. That will make make the difference between a disposable requiring restoration and a legacy camper needing a little maintenance. .

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 měsíci +1

      That's good advice for sure. I still have a lot to learn. What's even worse than that is a semi-truck driver backed into it and punctured a giant hole in the side one night while I was sleeping in it. The camper held up well and just slide sideways while not caving in. Scared the heck out of me!
      We have since scrapped the body and reused the trailer for another build. Pulled it almost 30,000 miles before scrapping it. There's another video on the channel showing how it held up after a year's use. Thanks for watching!

    • @super_rae
      @super_rae Před 3 měsíci

      I am attempting to rebuild a similar (traditional teardrop shape with plywood walls and with aluminum roof) - I found there was rot at the bottom of the walls and the floor - the underside did not appear to be waterproofed and the walls were mounted inside the steel trailer lip. Short version being I think I need to seal the edges as you suggest when rebuilding... what should I seal them with? epoxy? I had not intended to rebuild the camper but bought it used and discovered the rot one year in...so I essentially have no idea what I am doing...camper by CZcams.
      Any advice appreciated.

  • @martyfly8619
    @martyfly8619 Před 2 lety

    I'm all about the simplicity and freedom. Low cost is an added plus. Nicely done ! Any idea what the total weight after build is ? Considering the trailer is around 250lbs. to 270lbs. Thx

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks for leaving a question and checking out the video. It weighs 426lbs total. As a guy who's never had much money, I had to build it as cheap as I could. It sure helped me feel free as I pulled it around America in 2020. Good little camper. Safe travels to you. Freedom means more than ever right now.

  • @charlestait5303
    @charlestait5303 Před 2 lety

    I have that exact trailer! RUST???? You ain't seen nuthin' yet!!!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Hahaha, I've heard those things are born to rust! Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @hawaiidogs9277
    @hawaiidogs9277 Před rokem

    Ty sir

  • @REVNUMANEWBERN
    @REVNUMANEWBERN Před 2 lety

    Ingenious solution to the door hinge issues, BUT I believe there is a special type hinge you could of used to where you wouldn't of had to do such

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Hey, thanks for checking out the video! Greatly appreciated. I thought of using hinges without successfully finding the one that would work at the time. Since then, I've found one that would work. I may use them on the next build.

  • @orfilestrada883
    @orfilestrada883 Před 2 lety

    Hi mr mike great video! I’m planning to build mine soon but I have a question. How did you attach the floor plywood with the trailer?

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for watching the video, friend!
      I hope your build turns out great.
      To attach the floor plywood, I drilled bolt holes through the plywood and trailer frame and used a bolt, washer, and locknut to hold it in place. You could also use the holes in the frame cross members and only have to drill your bolt holes in the plywood once you line it up with the frame. Either way will work.

  • @melinda5777
    @melinda5777 Před měsícem

    I'm new to your channel. This is my second video! Last night I watched the complete build video of your most recent, (i think) build. It was about an hour long. Loved the voice over instead of music! You drove coast to coast pulling this? What was the final weight and which route did you take? Very curious! Thanks in advance. ✝️🙏❤🇺🇸👣🍍☘🤗

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před měsícem +1

      Thanks for your time in watching multiple videos. I greatly appreciate that!
      In 2020, I pulled that little camper coast to coast a few times, (roughly 21,000 miles). I lived out of it as I worked a travel job for the professional motocross series. Our job was to make the tracks look pretty for television with sponsor banners and hospitality tents. When the other guys on the crew would go back to a hotel room each evening, I'd just stay at the track where we were working and I'd sleep in the camper. It, and a cooler, was everything I needed. I brought along a makeshift shower too. The final weight was 426lbs.
      As far as the route, we would start the racing series in California. So, I had to drive out there from the east coast. Then the series would work it's way east, then west to Washington State and back to the east coast and finish up in Indiana. Later that year, I took a side gig in Florida and pulled the camper down there to live in for that job. Thanks for the questions!

    • @melinda5777
      @melinda5777 Před měsícem

      @mikekrabal WOW, that's the kind of thing I would dream of doing. You saved a lot of green backs that way! East Coast. It sounds like your from the West coast. LOL. Thanks for the response, I liked that too!

  • @coalcamp8784
    @coalcamp8784 Před 6 měsíci

    Where did you get your roof metal. I’ve searched everywhere and can’t anything wider than 20”

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 6 měsíci

      I bought it at Ferguson's HVAC supply. I recently bought a 4x8 sheet of aluminum from our local sign shop. That could work if you can't find the galvanized sheet metal. Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @christopherhorton3555
    @christopherhorton3555 Před 2 lety

    How did you do your cross members are they just bolted into holes you drilled? Curious for my own future project

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for checking out the video and for the question. Every piece of wood above the trailer was assembled using wood screws combined with the highest grade wood glue I could find. For the bottom side of the cross members, I used wood screws and sent them up through the floor into the stud. I think a heavier lag type of screw/bolt would work even better with a pre-drilled pilot hole. Good luck on your build!

  • @hellhound1389
    @hellhound1389 Před 2 lety

    Built a camper that fit in the bed of my S10 but I built mine out of aluminum and made a clam shell door set up where you used the main entry that was an old screen door from a house then you could undo the latches on the inside and it could open wide to still use the truck as a truck

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      That sounds like an awesome build! I especially like that you focused on keeping the bed of the truck usable. Very practical and original. Thanks for checking out the video.

  • @montereyspike
    @montereyspike Před 2 lety +1

    Hi. Great job on your camper. I was wondering what you did for A/C and how you powered your air conditioning. Thank you.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks for checking out the video! Greatly appreciated.
      For the A/C I used a regular window unit. It was a small 5000 btu model. I powered it with a small generator. I ended up cutting a hole for it in the front of the camper, above the tongue. It worked great. Not the trickest setup, but it was close to the cheapest setup.
      Here's a link to the video where I review the camper after one year. It has more info regarding the A/C, too. czcams.com/video/4lD_obdALDg/video.html

    • @montereyspike
      @montereyspike Před 2 lety +1

      @@mikekrabal Thanks. I'll check it out. Back in 2012-13, I traveled from California to Maine and then Florida and back, over 30 states with my dog for a whole year sleeping in a restored 1956 Benroy teardrop trailer. Not the easiest year of my life, but definitely one of the best. Great job on your trailer and thanks again for getting back to me. Rich

  • @amyrodgers9887
    @amyrodgers9887 Před 2 lety +1

    could we see the inside? Love the port holes

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Hey, thanks for checking out the video! Just last night, I posted a video that shows the entire camper inside and out. Here's the link to that video - czcams.com/video/4lD_obdALDg/video.html

  • @showspotter
    @showspotter Před rokem

    whered you find a 4x8 sheet of metal or aluminum, cant find any at the big box stores around me

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem

      I buy those sheets of metal at Ferguson HVAC supply stores. They're galvanized. They run from $45 to 75 dollars depending on the size and gauge. Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @yardsausage
    @yardsausage Před 10 měsíci

    that is so cool..i have watched many camper builds thru the years and i wonder if anyone has ever used balsa wood in non critical parts of the camper for weight reduction?

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 10 měsíci

      I think balsa wood would definitely have it's place in any lightweight build. I guess it comes down to how the builder engineers their pieces. I wouldn't count it out. But hey, I'm no engineer. Just a backyard building hillbilly.
      I hope you'll check out my other camper builds on my channel. They are way neater than that one. Thanks for watching!

    • @nmartin5551
      @nmartin5551 Před 4 měsíci

      Nose around youtube and you will find a guy with a channel using foam board for non-stressed furniture. And I’m sure you know there is a group that builds lightweight campers from it!!

  • @mikethefenceguy
    @mikethefenceguy Před 2 lety

    I was born in Harrisburg. Ain't been back since.

  • @1999mikedunn
    @1999mikedunn Před 2 lety

    How did you power the small air condition located at he front of your trailer? Nice job.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you, and thanks for checking out the video. I used a Yamaha EF2000 generator.

  • @MarkMayhew
    @MarkMayhew Před 2 lety

    how much did it cost to build?

  • @barbarawalker3620
    @barbarawalker3620 Před 8 měsíci

    👍👍👍👍👍👍

  • @TheREALOC1972
    @TheREALOC1972 Před rokem

    During Covid My Gf and I rebuilt a 1973 20' Shasta Camper that I bought a couple years earlier for $40 at a real estate auction so we could stay in on weekends when we go out of commuting distance for car shows. I have a 66 International Truck hot rod and she has a 65 Plymouth Belvedere, we live in Jacksonville but we regularly go to 2-3 to Savanah Georgia, Daytona, Orlando and sometimes go to Penacola, Mobile and even down to Miami a few times a year. Paying $15-$20 a night to stay at a state/national park in the camper we paid almost nothing to buy and rebuild is a LOT cheaper than paying $100-$150 a night on a hotel room, it literally paid for itself the first year we did it. We have used for 9 days strait last year for Cruising the Coast and did well, since then we have talked about doing it full time once we retire.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem

      Man, that turned out to be a great deal! I'm happy to hear that you rebuilt it and actively use it. Those road trips you've been on sound fun. Sure would be nice to see pictures of your finished project. Thank you for checking out the video. I greatly appreciate it!

    • @TheREALOC1972
      @TheREALOC1972 Před rokem

      @@mikekrabal Had we thought about it we would have videoed it and uploaded it to to here but we didn't think it, The one thing that we did when we painted it was we painted it with Silver Majic Tractor paint we got from a Farm and Home Store, alot of people just do the cheap Rustoleum paint, which works but we wanted a more finished look and tractor paint is cheaper when though you have to buy and add a reducer and hardner it's still cheaper, our paint cost us $35 for the gallon, $9 for the reducer and $13 for the hardner. those prices have gone up but it's still cheaper, the only draw back is it takes a week to completely dry as opposed to the 20 minutes for Rustoleum but it looks better IMO and it also alot more durable than the Rustoleum too.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem

      Thanks for the paint tip. I used Rustoleum on my last project. It turned out decent. Maybe I'll look into the tractor paint on the next one. Especially if I can save some money.

    • @TheREALOC1972
      @TheREALOC1972 Před rokem

      @@mikekrabal yep, that's what I'm here for, to help people. I've never rolled on or brushed on tractor paint but I don;t see why you can't, it's a spray on paint but I build Bobber Motorcyles for a living so I already have that but I don't see why you couldn't run to Harbor freight and get a cheap paint gun and 8 gallon air compressor, I have a 21 gallon tank and it never even comes close to shutting down to refill so a 8 gallon one should be more than fine.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem

      Do you have a website to see these bikes you build?

  • @BBare.
    @BBare. Před 2 lety

    Hello Mike, perfect trailer! Do you know how much it weighs?

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thank you very much for checking out the video! That thing weighs 426 lbs. I kept it as light as possible by not finishing the inside so that my small car could pull it easily. For a more in-depth review of that trailer, here's my one-year review video of it. czcams.com/video/4lD_obdALDg/video.html

  • @johnoceanyang5522
    @johnoceanyang5522 Před 2 lety

    Good

  • @kelliecorum5427
    @kelliecorum5427 Před 2 lety

    ❤TFS!

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @stephenandloriyoung5716
    @stephenandloriyoung5716 Před 2 lety +5

    Nice job! I like the sheet metal roof and the portholes. Starting with the same trailer, I lengthened and widened it with wood framing, so my inside dimensions are about 11'4" L x 56" w x 63" H. We enjoyed it for one camping season, then Covid cramped our style. Maybe next year. I used HD's 1/2" basic plywood, and wouldn't do that again. Warping and not uniform thickness made it a pain. I'd use 3/8 Smart Panel siding, and I'd make it another foot wider.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for checking out the video! Greatly appreciated! Your build sounds really cool. It would be awesome to see a picture of it. There are few limits to what's capable with a little know-how and imagination.
      I haven't heard of Smart Panel. I'm about to build another micro-camper, (just bought another trailer) so I'll look into that as an option for the walls. Thank you for making me aware of it. Safe travels!

    • @stephenandloriyoung5716
      @stephenandloriyoung5716 Před 2 lety

      @@mikekrabal I took a few pictures with my phone, if you'd like me to send them. Smart Panel is OSB based, and has a heavily embossed wood pattern face, grooved to look like boards, and comes with a very durable primer. I recently discovered it is available without the grooves, too, and used that kind to build a box for my utility trailer. The manufacturer is Weldwood, I think. Have fun with the new build. I just read yesterday that lumber prices are way down. Hope the local suppliers (yours and mine) reflect that, because the high prices are sure project killers.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      @@stephenandloriyoung5716 Thanks for the info on Smart Panel. It sounds like a really useful product for these types of builds. Fortunately, lumber has came down around here too. A 2x4 in WV is $2.98 from a high of $7.37 at our local Home Depot.
      I'm not sure how to share photos on CZcams, but if you have a suggestion I'd like to see those pictures for sure. Would you consider making a video of your camper? A lot of folks like me would love to see it.

    • @stephenandloriyoung5716
      @stephenandloriyoung5716 Před 2 lety

      @@mikekrabal I thought of email for the pictures - maybe you don't want your email address on YT, though. I should be able to do a basic video using my phone, but I haven't looked into how to upload to You Tube. Might have to take counsel from someone under the age of twelve.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety

      @@stephenandloriyoung5716 Hahaha, yeah the younger generation is so much better at the digital stuff! I just subscribed to your channel and if you make a video I'll get notified to watch it. And you're correct, I'm leery of putting my email on here.

  • @muskyful
    @muskyful Před 2 lety +2

    Very nice build....Keeping it simple ! love the sliding door solution. What glue did you use to attach the roof down ?

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you sir for checking out the vid. Greatly appreciated!
      I used a roof caulk from Home Depot. I went there the other day to get the brand name, but they didn't have any in stock. It was a clear type with yellow markings on the tube. It claimed to adhere to galvanized metal. That's what sold me on it. I'm sorry I don't remember what type it was. In addition to the caulk, I used a few shiny wood screws to help hold down the roof metal. If I do happen to see it in stock again, I'll update this comment.

  • @timwegman5776
    @timwegman5776 Před 3 lety

    Mind if I ask what you paid for the sheet of stainless steel and what gauge it was? I had planned on laminating my whole box but now the cheapest 4x8 I find is $500 per sheet and I would need close to 10 sheets and at $5,000 I will definitely be going another route and with the rise in wood prices the studs and cabinetry I had planned will add another $2,250. So add a cheap $800 trailer, $1,400 for appliances (stove, horizontal fridge, cheap media center, speakers, tv and Catalytic heater) now another $1,400 for solar system 12volt and AC 120volt batteries and $500 for the air-conditioning and a couple thousand for miss and I could buy 5 new tear drops

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 3 lety

      I don't mind at all. I paid $49 (if I remember correctly) for the roof metal from Ferguson Supply in the summer of 2020. It's a 4x10 sheet of 26 gauge galvanized steel. It's not stainless. It's what HVAC companies use for duct work. Thanks for watching, and I wish you the best on your build.

  • @brettiusmaximus8059
    @brettiusmaximus8059 Před rokem +1

    You mentioned the floor thickness of 3/4 was more than needed, what did you end up using for the floor?

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem +1

      I used half inch.

    • @brettiusmaximus8059
      @brettiusmaximus8059 Před rokem

      @@mikekrabal Thanks, trying to work out how to do my deck/floor for my utility camper.

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem +1

      @@brettiusmaximus8059 Glad to help and I hope it turns out well for you.

  • @MSWcryptoworker
    @MSWcryptoworker Před 4 měsíci

    Great!! But it’s a shame you didn’t put insulation in the roof

  • @wyattmackenzie4967
    @wyattmackenzie4967 Před 4 měsíci

    how much does this weight? and is it possible to have something like this transported by bike or....foot? LOL

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 4 měsíci

      It weighs 426 pounds. I think it's far too heavy for foot or bicycle, unfortunately. It can be moved around by foot, but it feels heavy doing it like that. Thanks for checking out the video!

  • @epenaloza52
    @epenaloza52 Před 8 měsíci

    Where did you get the metal top from?! There was a short rain here were I am and everything on the inside got wet

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 8 měsíci +1

      I bought the metal from Ferguson Supply. They are an HVAC supplier. Thanks for checking out the video!

    • @epenaloza52
      @epenaloza52 Před 8 měsíci

      @mikekrabal I look it up, and it's just showing up as a plumbing supplier in my area

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před 8 měsíci

      I'm sorry. I don't know of anywhere else to purchase it locally. Maybe a local HVAC contractor will sell you a sheet. It's worth a try.

  • @vincebrogan2878
    @vincebrogan2878 Před 5 měsíci

    2:48 corner piece is a gusset

  • @robertheuer7670
    @robertheuer7670 Před rokem

    im wanting to do something similar but us the trailer or trailer camper for some overland....my frame is going to be welded plus the bolts

    • @mikekrabal
      @mikekrabal  Před rokem +1

      Sounds like a good idea. I hope you'll share the build with us on CZcams. Thanks for having a look at my video.

    • @robertheuer7670
      @robertheuer7670 Před rokem

      you are welcome!....i will try to atleast take some pictures of the build