7x16 Cargo Trailer Conversion

[@jaimerenteria7538]

I love your trailer.... i watch your video frequently. Hopefully one day I'll buy one, I want it to be this beautiful.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Really appreciate that, and thank you for watching!

[@DevonGennuso]

Y'all put this together very nicely 🤙🏽 The garage space is pretty cool

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching!

[@jeffbaker5038]

Very professional, practical build. You got skillz!!!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@jeffbaker5038 thanks! Appreciate you!

[@FT__Cool_Stuff______-of5pi]

Wow, being able to pull in water from a stream and filter it well is nice. That could allow you to stay in one play for a LONG time

[@wetspotswimwear1199]

Nice to see a matching trailer/tow vehicle combo. Most people don't realize how cool it is to have a trailer that matches...from paint to tires, nice setup

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you! Appreciate ya watching.

[@mikewalker7551]

Badass bro

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks!

[@lookinin123]

Great build! Those metal workshop cabinets instead of particle board units are the way to go. You guys really put some thought into this. Thanks for putting this video up. Cheers!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! Yeah, I put some of these in a dirt bike trailer I built a few years ago and was really impressed with how well they stood up to abuse. Its just nice not to worry about chips, cracks, etc driving on bumpy roads. Also, having the replaceable butcher block countertops is good peace of mind as they’re easy to swap out.

[@2truckersandahound756]

We have been looking for a design that separated the garage from the living area! You win 😂🎉 the Murphy bed “wall” is perfect! Thanks for sharing

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! Here's a link to the hinge we used for the Murphy bed: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0895556VD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

[@2truckersandahound756]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 thank you so much!

[@huckleberrychris]

Love the grass on the deck. I'm in Colorado springs and camp all over Colorado and if I don't get things dirty, I wasn't really camping

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Couldn’t agree more! Keep gettin out there!

[@rossclay3317]

Outstanding! Thank you for sharing this! I would say this is one of the better build outs I seen. Also Bravo to Colorado Trailers! Yes great trailers and good people! Thank you again for sharing this!~

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Appreciate that, Ross! Thanks for watching!

[@kings5223]

I like how simple the trailer is. I completely agree with keeping the built-ins to a minimum.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Simple and easy! Thanks for watching.

[@mustdodiving5263]

Very clean build.. love how everything is pretty much bought off the shelf …

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you! We wanted as much off the shelf as possible for easy replacement. Custom stuff looks great, but is a pain when it breaks.

[@noahriding5780]

When you do this, how high can you go with ceiling height? Like for example... going under bridge overpasses, they aren't all really tall; some are low. So is there like a certain height that you don't go above for the top of the camper? How do you also make sure you don't go to heavy with a longer trailer? (Still pull without an expensive truck?) Thank you.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

I’ve never had any issue with bridge height. You just have to pay attention to your trailer height vs the posted bridge height. But like I mentioned, this has never been an issue for us. From a weight perspective, you need to spec out everything in you build beforehand to make sure it will fit within your tow vehicles payload/towing capacity. I built a spreadsheet that contains everything that went into our build and its dry/wet weight.

[@tamiga80]

Wow!! So impressed! I could easily and comfortably live in this! Happy travels!

[@kennethgardner3090]

It`s small but it has everything you need. I like that, and that is what it`s all about. A good way to wrap it up.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Kenneth! Exactly how we feel.

[@johnstride5761]

Any reason you did not select the tip-down bed option. The space gain and outdoor feel is significant. We had years of use out of our pop -u camper with slide -out beds of a similar type.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

It wasn’t a feature when we first bought the trailer.

[@HabitualButtonPusher]

That is a nice DIY’er. Love the murphybed. That needs to be more a thing with smaller builds like these to maximize space the the rear deck turf is a nice touch. Think I would add awnings to the camp side and the rear deck.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching! Murphy bed is still going strong after two years. We’re very glad we went that route.

[@mikerottler2043]

Nice clean build. Content like this is few and far between. Thank you

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Mike! Really appreciate that. Thanks for watching.

[@chrisr6157]

Wow!!! This is such a thoughtful and well layed out cargo trailer conversation!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks so much, Chris!

[@wheelspin1000]

Thumbs UP! awesome build - thanks for sharing...Really appreciate the modular approach for the storage and such, as well as the fridge and solar/electrical simplicity. This build nailed it. I'm wanting to solo travel and base camp to then use my BMW adventure bike for local exploring/camping and such. This type of build philosophy which allows a motorcycle to be stored inside seems perfect. Glad I found your video - thanks again and and safe travels to you and yours...

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks so much! In the winter when we’re back in TX racing motorcross, I swap the mountain bikes out for my Honda CRF250R and we turn it into home base for a race weekends - so can confirm it fits that use as well :)

[@Rachmeg]

How have the gladiator cabinets held up over time? Any issues with the screws loosening with off road travel?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

They’ve done great. 0 issues. After 2 years, they look brand new. Highly recommend.

[@sonnycalzone7784]

This is the deal. I am a new (new to me) gladiator owner looking at ARE color match caps and deck’d boxes..couple years this simple cargo trailer toy hauler/camper is whats next …this is the deal guys ! Beautiful life !

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! We are loving the Gladiator. 40,000 miles over the last year and no issues. We’ll get around to a tour of it one of these days as well.

[@thesoutherncraftsman7228]

Great build! Very well-thought out

[@garrettlong8245]

Thank you!

[@sgthoskins]

Thanks for sharing. Pretty awesome setup.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching!

[@kongstrong1938]

Nice build, scenery, and video!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks!

[@exrhodie1234]

Amazing build! We did something similar with a 7x14 all aluminum trailer, but we also put in a shower with Porta potty and it works well. We have 350w of Renogy panels, charge controller and inverter and it gives us all we need. We can tow with either my F150 or even my wife's Tacoma V6. What does your trailer weigh now?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

That sounds like a great build! Our trailer weights about 5,500lbs now fully loaded. It was 3,500lbs stock before we built anything out.

[@Chris-ut6eq]

Well thought out build. What was starting weight of trailer? how much did your build add, dry weight? I'm considering something similar, but perhaps an 8.5x16. Not sure on vendor yet.

[@garrettlong8245]

Thanks! Starting weight was 3,500. Total wet weight is around 5,500 lbs so added another 2,000 lbs with the full build.

[@patriciamuskevitsch8359]

Beautiful rug. You did a great job.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching!

[@johndoe7171]

Been looking at different solutions, but those Gladiator cabinets are brilliant - great idea. Affordable, tough, and replaceable.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@johndoe7171 exactly! Thanks for watching!

[@HollywoodConnection-jast]

absolutely love it.... I think I'd trade off the garage area for a very nice size wet bath/shower area. I'd put my bike on a bumper rack via a hitch install and cover it well along with a double kryptonite lock which will help keep the thieves away....

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@HollywoodConnection-jast thanks for watching! Great ideas!

[@LilyBecca]

You could have a lot of fun switching out the bottom of the murphy bed. I would print some pictures of different places so it wouod be like looking out the window.

[@ericherrmann6344]

Very nice, thanks for giving us so much inspiration!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching, Eric!

[@tonya9614]

Super cool! Thanks for sharing.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching, Tony!

[@Chantheman235]

This thing is sweet! Looking to build something like this! Great ideas here!!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Chandler! Good luck on your build!

[@Paintbl99]

I was just looking at these trailers this evening and stumbled across your video. Well done sir!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@gregjonesdfw]

Nice build. What's the dry/wet weight?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! Dry is 3,500 and wet is around 5,500.

[@lifequestproperties]

Wow, great job, love the build-out! I recently bought one of their 7x18 trailers & will be building out the interior as well. Love the turf grass idea, will be stealing that, lol! Happy trails!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Steal away! Thanks for watching. Share your build when you’re done :)

[@TheSkydiverphoenix]

Maybe I missed it. What does it weigh? Nice build..

[@garrettlong8245]

Thanks! About 5,500 fully loaded. Empty trailer is 3,500

[@pielcanela365]

love the idea of the drawers in the toe kick area, plus the metal cabinets.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you! They’ve been working out great so far.

[@nomadmac2001]

Very nice, sometimes I wish I went with a larger ctc project. Maybe when I get a more suitable vehicle. Great video.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks!

[@smitty02345]

Thank you man for the inspiration and getting straight to the point of the video 👍

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching, Smitty! Just trying to share some ideas for folks who want to do the same thing.

[@Blcjholl]

Great colors! Also your additions

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@bsellman6881]

Badass Rig man! I like the simplicity and you checked all the boxes, minus the silly s*** you see on other KZbin videos for tiny homes / van life. Cheers be safe have fun!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Ha! Thanks man!

[@johnw65]

Awesome camper, thanks for the video! My 4x6 v-nose toy hauler-camper-theater is quite compact. Front 4x5 deck plus roof rack and hitch rack is extra room for 2KW Inv-Gen, Solar pnl, and Awning. 3 cabinets house cooking equip. and the 24"TV/entertainment ctr. Twin tri-fold sofa-bed, 5K BTU AC, elec heat and induction cooktop complete the collection (so far). Planning a folding room pinned onto my ramp that will be outside galley and inside privy w/shower pan. that will tie down on the front deck. Pulling it with a 1.8L Scion XD gets 20mpg (headwind) and 28mpg (tailwind)

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, John! Would love to see your build when you're done!

[@johnw65]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 Thanks Garrett, I've never done a video but have lotsa pics of my conversion. Being a newbie, I watched hundreds of conversion and DIY videos to get ideas. Like your floor for instance. Where's it from?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@johnw65 Apologies for the late response. Missed your comment. We got the flooring from Amazon. Here's the link: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08528N2CV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1&psc=1 If that doesn't work for any reason, search "We Sell Mats Forest Floor Farmhouse Collection 3/8 Inch Thick Printed Wood Grain Mats, 24 in x 24 in" There's almost endless options. We've had the floor for 3 months now and it's held up incredibly well to water, dirt, hiking boots, etc. No real sign of wear to be honest. We'd definitely go this route again.

[@bonexsher]

did u insulate the walls and ceiling? great build love the bed saw some one the other day with the kitchen in the back like a teardrop. how many backup batteries did you have?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! The trailer came insulated from the Cargo Craft factory. We have 3 3,000 watt batteries.

[@chirogirl67550]

Incredible build…excellent! Peace and Blessings

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks so much!

[@coloradotrailersinc]

Love what you guys did to the trailer! It looks amazing!! So creative and I love the finishes!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks guys! We get so many compliments on the exterior of the trailer too. It’s been a great platform as the base for our custom build.

[@lifequestproperties]

Love what they did here! Trailer looks awesome!!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@lifequestproperties Thanks!

[@JoelTremblayCA]

Awesome build!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Joel!

[@rickgrimes931]

Can you do a video on what you have done to the Jeep? And what do you do for bathroom and shower needs?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Absolutely, we’ll get around do that one day. For bathroom/shower, we have an outdoor propane hot water shower we use. We didn’t want to dedicate an interior space for a shower since we could just do that outside and because we didn’t want all the additional moisture in the trailer from a shower. From a bathroom perspective, all of the dispersed sites we typically visit have bathroom facilities, so we prioritized our garage space for that reason.

[@rickgrimes931]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 - My family tends to camp off grid so bathrooms are not quite as available. One of the things that popped to mind was a two sets of brackets to put a shower "stall" and a potty "stall" on the outside easily. Mostly to keep direct sun and insects off of you. Maybe under an awning in case weather was towards the colder side? Either way, I love your setup. I have been looking at Novak helping setup a Jeep as that would give me more power and towing capacity. I look forward to seeing your setup.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@rickgrimes931 Thanks for the great suggestions, Rick. Safe travels out there!

[@hldye7442]

Like that C.T. Camper , A Quality Build Out .

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@chewar7537]

Very nice!! Did I miss seeing the bathroom area? Cool idea for the flooring indeed...all nicely thought out.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! For bathroom/shower, we have an outdoor propane hot water shower we use (It's the Joolca HotTap mounted on the wall in the garage). We didn’t want to dedicate an interior space for a shower since we could just do that outside and because we didn’t want all the additional moisture in the trailer from a shower. From a bathroom perspective, all of the dispersed sites we typically visit have bathroom facilities, so we prioritized our garage space for that reason. We carry a portable Cleanwaste Toilet, but have never used it. This has been fine for both my wife and I.

[@chewar7537]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 Cool. Enjoy your travels!!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@chewar7537 thank you!

[@abedowner]

Are you able to run the dometic heat/ac unit that comes with these trailers with your bluetti setup? Or is that only used when connected to shore power?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

We can run it from the BLUETTI, but rarely do given the power draw (about 1500 watts on average), which would drain our batteries in about 6 hours.

[@calmlikeabomb1340]

Great setup

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@chadgillaspie7203]

Awesome Build!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Chad!

[@cregp72]

Awesome set up and build. Keep us updated on your adventures would like to see how it goes

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Creg. Appreciate you watching. Will do!

[@fencepost5369]

Great job one of the best best wishes 😊

[@AdmiralLobeam]

Thanks for the video! Our Great Lakes Unmanned Systems business has the next size bigger trailer from Colorado Trailers in Castle Rock. Same color as yours. I picked it up right before the COVID pandemic hit and have acquired a few things to make the trailer into something that can serve to store and transport our small unmanned water rescue, sonar, and water sampling USV's. And to live in while we're on the road going around the Great Lakes. If we had to stay in hotels we'd be loosing money!!! Your video provided solutions to about 4 things we need to accomplish. Any advice you can give on drilling into the walls would be appreciated!!!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

That’s awesome! As far as drilling into the walls, we didn’t do anything special. We mainly used wood screws with stainless steel washers (when needed for mounting) and didn’t run into any issues drilling into the plywood backing. Drilling a pilot hole was helpful at times to penetrate the aluminum side panels. Good luck on the build!

[@keletienne7947]

Love the solar on top and power station as storage instead of batteries and inverters. Little more expensive but easier to reconfigure, move to another unit, etc.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! You’re exactly right. We wanted a system that would be easy to switch to a different build, be it another trailer, off-grid cabin, etc. Thanks for watching :)

[@skylarshirley9385]

This is the closest build out to what I want to do with my trailer. I have a cargo trailer I used for hauling cabinets but going to turn it into an adventure rig. Do you use your trailer in the winter up there in Colorado? If so how warm is it?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Latest we’ve lived out of it in CO was late October, so 20s at night and 40s during the day. It did fine using a propane heater.

[@thetrailninja3791]

Nice conversion. I am looking at a 7x16 to convert to a camper/ATV hauler. I haven't done one before but wondering if it can be done where I an haul a Honda Rancher and keep the unit under 4000lbs total. I plan to use an aluminum frame trailer to save 900lbs of weight. Hauling with a 2012 Ford F-150 with a 3.7L V6

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@thetrailninja3791 aluminum will certainly help. Weight is a tricky one. We started at 3,500 stock, and were meticulous to stay below 6,000 pounds total with the build. Good luck!

[@maxdaly8185]

This is very cool. I like that it can be repurposed easily, as opposed to just getting a camper.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@maxdaly8185 Thanks! That was our intention. If we ever wanted to change platforms or build an off grid camping, we could take this build back to a base cargo trailer in under a week.

[@nojnoj3069]

Hi guys...ive just come across your video. Absolutely outstanding set-up and incredibly well thought out. The Murphy bed has to be the icing on the cake.... Getting a good night's sleep is paramount when you're enjoying the outdoor activities, especially cycling. I can't imagine how you'd change anything doing this creation again...apart from an outside or inside shower. I had to subscribe to your channel. You are living the dream and im interested in future adventures. Outstanding!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks so much for the kind words! We feel the same way after living in it full time for 3 months. Nothing we’d really change if we did it over again.

[@marleneibarracapezza4894]

Where is the toilet?

[@bigoper]

NEW SUBSCRIBER HERE!!! LOVE the build, the presentation and the good vibes :) How heavy is the trailer (dry/wet)? Thanks!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for following along! The trailer stock was about 3,500 lbs. Dry is about 5,500 and wet is about 5,750.

[@bigoper]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 are you happy with how your Gladiator tows? Was curious how comfortable it might be. Thanks!!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@bigoperI’m surprised with how well it tows (for a Jeep). We’re not going anywhere fast, but from a stability perspective it does great. We struggle in open parts of Texas when the speed limit is 75mph because it wants to be in 5th or 4th. So we typically stay around 65 mph to be in 6th or 7th for better fuel economy. But all in all, for a jeep on 37s with stock 4:10 gears, it does great.

[@devinhedge]

I'm curious what vehicle are you pulling this trailer with?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Jeep Gladiator with the 3.6 and Max Tow.

[@MrKeenaz]

I really like this unit. Where do you actually shower, is there a fold out room. Also no mention of a toilet. For a male it’s no issue but women do into the comfort of a portaloo.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

For bathroom/shower, we have an outdoor propane hot water shower we use. We didn’t want to dedicate an interior space for a shower since we could just do that outside and because we didn’t want all the additional moisture in the trailer from a shower. From a bathroom perspective, all of the dispersed sites we typically visit have bathroom facilities, so we prioritized our garage space for that reason. This has been fine for both my wife and I. We carry a portable Cleanwaste Toilet, but have never used it.

[@TrailFire]

Bought their 8.5 X 20 full front bedroom build coming soon 🔜 👍

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Very nice! Can’t wait to see your build.

[@rockymtncampergirl641]

I built out my 6x12 cargo craft 2017 as well. I love it. I have new age cabinets in mine. Would love to share my pics with you, somehow! You did a great job on yours! 🙂

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

That’s awesome! 6x12 is a great size for more maneuverability.

[@loftninefivefour4611]

my favorite build so far!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@loftninefivefour4611 thank you!

[@YouTubeMaster1611]

What is in the tongue box? What do you do for heat and ac?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Two 20lb propane tanks in the tongue box. Typical RV AC unit on the roof. Options to use small electric space heater or Wave 6 Propane heat depending on the scenario.

[@GeardUpNorth]

How long did the entire build process take.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

About a month working in the evening and on the weekends.

[@richardfoster8692]

Nice trailer and build ...Didn't see a toilet . You do showers outside?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! And yep, have a portable clean waste toilet and Joolca Hot Tap outdoor shower.

[@dta97392]

Love what you have created/ me being a senior/ really can’t build one one/ but I am flexible to have one done/ any ideas? thx

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

I'd look for local fabricators, builders, carpenters, cabinetry folks. I imagine if you did the design, they could build you something similar.

[@solo_robo]

If the weight of the trailer is focused towards the rear, wouldn't that be dangerous?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

The weight is evenly distributed throughout the trailer. I created a spreadsheet to map the weight allotment across the footprint of the trailer. The heaviest concentration was positioned directly over the axles.

[@rpcpressurecleaningandsoft2535]

You did a very nice job

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@KempOutside]

Nice build!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@Painfulwhale360]

Looks awesome!!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@nickgp]

We're about to buy on of these trailers! How does the gladiator do towing the 7x16? I have a 2010 4runner (5,000lbs towing capacity) and live at 6,000ft and was advised to go with the 6x12 size. The extra room seems like it would be nice though.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Hey there! Yeah, I think you’d be exceeding your capacity with the 7x16 as it’s already 3,500 pounds with nothing in it. The Gladiator is rated for 7,000 pounds and does surprising well towing it (ours is around 5,500 pounds fully loaded). You definitely can tell the engine is working towing over passes, and MPG is between 7-10, but overall stability, breaking, etc has been fine for us. I try to only get to 80% of a vehicles max tow capacity, which is why we were meticulous about stopping at 5,500 lbs for our build. They’re great trailers though :) Good luck on your build and hope that helps!

[@nickgp]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 Ah yeah that makes sense. Better to play it safe than be sorry later. I didn’t realize the gladiator had such a high towing capacity. Glad to hear you guys like the trailer, there aren’t too many reviews on them. You did an excellent job, I’ll definitely be copying some of your designs.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@nickgp we were in the same boat, they’re pricey trailers without a ton of long term reviews but we’ve probably put 5,000+ miles on ours and it’s going strong.

[@YorkBallersInc]

What did the Colorado Trailer cost. Love your Bluetti System. Man, ton of solar - what we're the brand of your panels

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! Trailer was ~$20k. We used Renogy panels. Two 320w panels and two 200w panels.

[@YorkBallersInc]

@theoffroadnomads8341 They really make some great trailers

[@hughseagraves7036]

Great point about not doing anything custom unless you absolutely have to. A friend of mine said the same thing when I was renovating my house. Sometimes things need to be replaced and it's much cheaper and easier with standard sized components.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks for watching!

[@DrMott]

Terrific job!

[@traviswiest1556]

Holy Solar Batman! That's a lotta juice! Great build guys!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@traviswiest1556 Thanks, Travis! It's definitely a bit overkill from a power perspective but that's what we wanted. We never wanted to have to worry about power production or storage.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Dr Mott!

[@dpchait7793]

How’s the starlink working while traveling

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

It's been amazing. Absolute game changer for us. Highly recommend it.

[@bobtovar321]

Say hello to Drew at Restless Spirit and the girls at Packer Saloon from Sysco Bob.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Ha! You got it 👍🏻

[@johnstride5761]

Love the trailer. About the Gladiator: 1) which engine does it have and 2) how does the Jeep handle towing in the mountains and offroad?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@johnstride5761 it’s the 3.6l V6 Gas Engine. The Gladiator is rated for 7,000 pounds and does surprising well (for a jeep) towing the trailer (ours is around 5,500 pounds fully loaded). You definitely can tell the engine is working towing over passes, and MPG is between 7-10, but overall stability, breaking, etc has been fine for us. I try to only get to 80% of a vehicles max tow capacity, which is why we were meticulous about stopping at 5,500 lbs for our build.

[@johnstride5761]

@theoffroadnomads8341 I suspected the mountains would push the V6. I have towed heavy trailers with full-size diesel trucks in the mountains and enjoyed four jeeps that were never used for towing. Love the concept of the Gladiator but the engine should be upgraded -- it is a truck, not a Wrangler. Unfortunately, the diesel has been dropped and Stellantis is hanging on by the thinnest of threads. Worse, the aftermarket has not bypassed the GPEC5 yet, so no forced induction available on late-model Gladiators. Perhaps a Colorado ZR2? How satisfied are you with the build quality of the trailer? Would you buy one again?

[@TheAmericanWanderer]

Nice Job.... I am in the process of converting an 8x16 v-nose cargo trailer into an RV and Mobile Sign Shop. I am just starting the walls and cabinet construction. I just sold a 15-passenger shuttle bus that I lived in for 3 years and traveled out west during the winters. I had to sell the shuttle bus because I purchased a large format color printer to make contour cut decals/stickers, koozies, t-shirts, magnetics, banners, mousepads, etc. The large format color printer would have taken up a lot of storage space so I needed to get something bigger. I did a complete conversion series on the shuttle bus from the ground up and now am doing a new series on the cargo trailer conversion. They are on my YT channel.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! I’ve looked at doing 15-passenger conversions in the past. Will definitely check it out. Good luck on the new build!

[@patrickconrad396]

Hey man can you do a video of your water filtration system? You said you had to seperate filters so I'm curious your setup

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Yes, we’ll do one eventually, just haven’t had time yet. We use both the Life Saver 5 gallon Jerry can filter system, as well as the MSR Guardian - all depending on the circumstance.

[@patrickconrad396]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 oh okay I see. That's a great idea. Looking forward to the video. Also thanks for the flooring idea. Love that wood look without any unnecessary weight. I'll be stealing that one from you too!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@patrickconrad396 here's the link to the floors: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08528N2CV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1&psc=1

[@himotoma]

awesome design.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks!

[@Rceped]

Where did you put the air vent for your plumbing. Did you run it to the roof or half way through the wall? Thanks

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Hey Rafael, do you mean the air vent for our water system plumbing? If so, we don’t have one. Plumbing system is very simple. Just using a 7 Gallon Reliance jug for freshwater, and another one for grey water from the sink. Basic 12v water pump to power it all.

[@mycocoaone]

Looks perfect!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks!

[@anamericanpatriot5032]

What do u do for the bathroom fun?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

For bathroom/shower, we have an outdoor propane hot water shower we use (It's the Joolca HotTap mounted on the wall in the garage). We didn’t want to dedicate an interior space for a shower since we could just do that outside and because we didn’t want all the additional moisture in the trailer from a shower. From a bathroom perspective, all of the dispersed sites we typically visit have bathroom facilities, so we prioritized our garage space for that reason. We carry a portable Cleanwaste Toilet, but have never used it. This has been fine for both my wife and me.

[@JeremyDBrown-zt7ci]

Amazing build here...thanks for taking the time to make this video -- for the cabinets, how do you bolt them down or prevent shifting during transit? Thanks again!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Jeremy! The cabinets are screwed into the walls. No issues with that yet and we’ve been down some pretty bump roads.

[@JeremyDBrown-zt7ci]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 Awsome thank you! I have the same trailer as you and are installing gladiator cabinets based on your build too - thanks for the info!

[@JeremyDBrown-zt7ci]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 And did you do the same for the tall cabinet as well? Or is that in the ground? Thank you!

[@JeremyDBrown-zt7ci]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 Cool - I appreciate the intel!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@JeremyDBrown-zt7ci sorry for the delay, missed you comment. All the cabinets are screwed to the wall, and to the wooden drawers I built below them. I had to add a 2x4 piece behind the tall cabinet as it was spaced further from the wall due to a slightly different design than the other cabinets.

[@messickk1]

How was the trailer lifted? What did Colorado Trailers do to achieve the lift on the torsion axle?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Hey Keith, I'd reach out to Colorado Trailers on that. I'm not sure on all the specifics.

[@plsadventures961]

Beautiful nice job

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thank you!

[@DesmoDadV2]

How does your jeep tow that trailer? The trailer looks pretty heavy? And really nice video btw.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

I’m surprised with how well it tows (for a Jeep). We’re not going anywhere fast, but from a stability perspective it does great. We struggle in open parts of Texas when the speed limit is 75mph because it wants to be in 5th or 4th. So we typically stay around 65 mph to be in 6th or 7th for better fuel economy. But all in all, for a jeep on 37s with stock 4:10 gears, it does great. Trailer is about 5,500 lbs fully loaded. Thanks for watching!

[@DesmoDadV2]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 wow that is still impressive! Thank you!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@DesmoDadV2 sure thing!

[@alexandersprout7992]

This is awesome! Are you guys full time? Been living out of my 2020 Tacoma & was thinking on purchasing a trailer, hopefully set up a home base somewhere, preferably Colorado since living an active lifestyle. Any suggestions finding county land in CO that permits camping long term? Similar to what you have set up in this video. Would like to build a structure in the future, although understand zoning & permits can be limited in CO due to septic & electrical requirements. Keep up the great work. Thanks in advance!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks! We live in it 6-8 months a year, depending on locations and weather conditions. Haven’t done a full winter yet. We lived out of our Gladiator for a summer before building this, so been in your shoes, and definitely recommend the trailer to have a more homey vibe. We move around a lot, so haven’t tried to figure out permits or anything. Not sure on the best options if you want to stay put for awhile. Enjoy your adventures!

[@alexandersprout7992]

Thank you so much! You two stay safe & enjoy!

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@alexandersprout7992of course 😊

[@vikingbladeworksllc7747]

Way cool. I want one to haul my Harley.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

It’d look great with a Harley in it! We used it to haul my dirt bikes before we did the whole build out. Worked great!

[@Rocky-or4rz]

This is pretty genius, I actually don't live too far from Castle Rock, I've been wanting to do a build like this for a long time and I think I might actually steal your design

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Appreciate ya! Go for it!

[@Rocky-or4rz]

​@@theoffroadnomads8341I absolutely love the drop-down bed, that's the best idea I've seen yet in a DIY camper build

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@Rocky-or4rz thanks! We racked our brains for awhile on space saving ideas. Our 1st plan was to build a raising system using electric actuators, but we’re glad we went this route as it keeps the head room above the dinette and was significantly cheaper.

[@KeywordManagement]

Nice build

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@KeywordManagement thanks for watching!

[@MrOsoverde]

Do you haul that with your Gladiator?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Yep!

[@salmazzei5882]

Where is the bathroom set up?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Most of the dispersed sites we stay near typically have public bathrooms at them, so for us we prioritized the garage space over a bathroom. Certainly not the choice for everyone, but we’re happy with the decision.

[@austinleach6968]

Love the build. Curious to know full build costs.

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

Thanks, Austin. We’re about 35k all in. 20k for the trailer, 15k for the build - though about 60% of that is allocated towards solar and batteries, so could definitely be done cheaper.

[@mschumaker1]

@@theoffroadnomads8341 love the build, very thoughtful, nicely done. But you can buy a nice toy hauler of similar size and quality already done for that much, no?

[@theoffroadnomads8341]

@@mschumaker1 Thanks for watching. It really depends on what you're looking for. If you're primarily wanting a toy hauler that has some fold down couches and a kitchenette, then yes - you can get those in the 30k range. For us, none of those had the layout we wanted, particularly when it came to the size of the kitchen area and the dinette. Since we work from the road, a large dinning area to double as a workspace was key, and most everything on the market had those "4 person" dinettes which just wasn't appealing to work at 10 hours a day. Our dinette seats 6 and is more conducive to our lifestyle. The other toy haulers in that price range didn't have nearly the solar power we wanted either. Our solar/battery system is 25% of the entire cost of our build, including the trailer. It's excessive for most, but we love never worrying about power and even running our AC off our batteries. All in all, we didn't choose to build our own to save money. It was about getting exactly what we wanted :)