DIY Beach Cart - UPDATE

Update to my original video to discuss the issues with the original wheels and how I replaced them with ones specifically designed for the sand. See the original video that explains the cart design here: • DIY Beach Cart
If you want to see the details of how to attach the wheels and axle to the PVC frame, check out this video: • How to Attach Axle and...

[@mssixty3426]

Your video is the only one that actually addressed the problem I had in mind. Thank you!

[@centerforceone]

You are most welcome! I made the video because I could not find anything like it already on the web. Please let me know how your build goes. Good Luck!

[@yolo-cars]

Thank you for this video! I'd like to build the lightweight beach cart. I wonder if is there anything lighter than those PVC pipes? Last time I checked Home Depot those pipes are pretty thick, so I'm not sure if this is the best choice. Definitely cheap though...

[@davidc3311]

the weight of the cart, sits on the axle which seems to be only supported by the end piece hole in the end stopper.....just wondering if there is a way to strenghten this maybe filling with a cement to provide a more robust end piece that holds the axle?

[@pcdonahue]

Great video! I'm looking to build a pvc beach cart that I could attach to my bike and this is a great help. I'm having wheel dilemma though. I really want to use the wheeleez wheels for beach/sand purpose but I'm worried how they hold up on alot of road usage. Plus they are pricey as you mention in a comment below!

[@centerforceone]

That is a dilemma. I think the wheeleez would hold up to light road use. My concern would be their resistance. They have greater surface area on the road surface, and they don't have a bearing where they connect to the axle. The best thing would be an easy way to swap wheels for use - bike tires for the road to beach parking lot and then wheeleez for the trek from the parking lot to the beach.

[@jaredepstein417]

Love this idea, thanks for the video! @pcdonahue did you ever make a bike attachment?? I’m going down that same rabbit hole... ;)

[@wesreynolds7285]

Can you send me some plans on how to build this and what to purchase...thanks

[@wesleyhackney]

can you mention or list website or store where you got the wheel kit. thanks nice design

[@centerforceone]

www.wheeleez.com/

[@mikeh7592]

It looks like the two pieces of PVC that run long ways have bowed a bit over time. Is this the case? I was thinking I could possibly prevent that by putting in two shorter pieces of PVC to reinforce them. Think that would work?

[@centerforceone]

Those pieces of PVC are bowing due to the tension of the 550 cord I used for the lacing to keep items from slipping through the gaps. You are right about reinforcements helping to prevent that, but it would add weight and complexity to the build.

[@rachelmisurac2524]

Is the shaft just press-fit in the two pvc plugs? Any issues with wear and tear? I've seen a few designs that use washers between the plugs and wheels but don't think that's necessary.

[@centerforceone]

Hi Rachel. I have not encountered any issues. I don't think the washers are necessary.

[@markjensen9453]

With all the requests for plans, would it be worth a 2nd update with the plans included in the video (possibly redrawn for clarity)?

[@centerforceone]

That's a good idea Mark. I need to get back to shooting videos.

[@dorian345]

@@centerforceone yea i need a beach cart! lol help

[@hzgottlieb]

It’s been awhile since this had active comments but mine is a little different. I’m handicapped and a beginning rockhounder. I want to make a beach walker from pvc with fat tires however it will be used on gravel bars mostly. I guess I missed the part of your axle and did you just make holes in the one and a quarter pvc or did you make a bracket for the axle to go through. Do you think that wheelbarrow wheels would work?

[@centerforceone]

Hi Harris! Check out this video to learn more about the wheels and axle assembly and let me know if you have additional questions. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gGXIfah3ps6fbKc

[@JohnnyBelize49]

I have been looking to build a beach cart like this, what was the total cost in parts if you don't mind me asking?

[@centerforceone]

When I built it back in 2015 everything but the wheels was right around $100.

[@3jesusfreak8]

Can I get the plans for this? Love your build!

[@centerforceone]

I am happy share my plans, but I'll warn you they look a lot like scratch paper. In a general sense, the length is about 5.5' (for the canopy) and the inner width at the top is around 32" (to accommodate our ice chest). I would post a pic of the plans here, but it appears I can only leave text. If you let me know how to find you on Facebook or by another means, I can message the plans to you.

[@StefaniDiGiovanni]

I would also LOVE them. Or at least a shopping list to go by 😎

[@zseeley]

Hmm, interesting. I would want two more wheels...

[@toddbrasseaux3706]

Where can u get the kit

[@timcreef2488]

What size PVC pipe do you use? Looks great and would like to build one for vacation this year. Any other do's/don'ts?

[@centerforceone]

Tim Creef I used 1-1/4" PVC, but not Schedule 40 grade which is thicker (and heavier). The standard PVC pipe seems plenty strong. As far as general guidance, make sure you get all your dimensions figured out before you start cutting and gluing.

[@dorian345]

@@centerforceone How much weight can this cart hold?

[@centerforceone]

@@dorian345 I estimate our everyday beach gear weighs around 120 pounds with the majority of that being the canopy (65 pounds) and loaded ice chest (30 pounds). FYI, Our canopy is an oversized rectangular one, where most are square.

[@bsmiller64]

@@centerforceone so still holding up years later?

[@derekobidowski5784]

Wheeleez is the way to go as im going to build a Ames wheelbarrow to a beach cart using the Wheeleez 16.5 X7.9 wheels as it uses a 1 inch axle as the wheels are lightweight makes this wheelbarrow easy to transport its a 4 cu ft capacity poly tray. some people use lawn tractor replacement tires not sure if they work or not they are the 15 X6-6 i seen videos they use them on homemade beach carts. i prefer Wheeleez. the wheelbarrow is neglected when i found it the handles are not good as im not using wood on this project. the handles are metal the original legs and braces will be used as ill put it together using the original wheel for now till i can obtain the two wheeleez wheels. as the wheelbarrow will be a dual wheel configuration but will be only strictly for beach use when i vacation. the expensive part of the project will be of course the wheels. but worth it and cheaper and more sturdier than the Wheeleez WZ-1-BC beach cart and will hold more than the wheeleez cart which only has a 3 cu ft capacity as the wheelbarrow i got is 4 cu ft.

[@fedemon76]

Does the rotation of the axes consume the PVC cap? How do you prevent? Thank you

[@centerforceone]

It does not because the wheels are free to spin on the axle. When the cart is loaded, the pressure of the cart/PVC holds the axle fixed and the wheels rotate around the axle.

[@specfever2]

I'd like to see how you attached the bigfoot wheels. I found 3 Barbie-type cars in the trash and have 12 wheels. Problem is they're pink, but I'll get over it. I did not keep the axles I don't think, but I do have some threaded rod, some nuts, washers, etc. I'm hoping that will work. If the plastic wheels rotate around the shaft (threaded rod), then I'd expect them to wear out pretty quick. If the axle rotates with the tire, then I'm more confident in it all. What do you think.

[@centerforceone]

+Alan Meijer, I no longer have the wheels, so I can't show you, but I can explain how I did it. I salvaged the wheels, axle, bushings and cap nuts. I used all these in pretty much the same configuration they were on the toy. It was not easy to remove the axle from the gear box, but it can be done. I don't think threaded rod would work. If I remember right, the axle was 7/16" solid steel. You should be able to buy that at a big box store. However, you will not be able to put much weight on the cart as the axle is not stiff enough. See my "Beach Cart Update" video for a discussion of the issues with the salvaged wheels and how I choose to fix it.

[@specfever]

+centerforceone Thanks. I think I chucked the original axles, or at least busted the pressure caps trying to get them off. I've seen some guys building kayak carts using threaded rod although they were attaching more rugged pneumatic tires with metal rims (i.e. the kind you get from Harbor Freight, etc.).

[@DavidLMadWI]

+centerforceone Excellent video. My question is how much weight your axle, wheels and PVC support legs will take. What's the max? If you needed a setup just like yours, but to support even more weight, what would you have done differently? Thanks.

[@centerforceone]

+DLMADWI Thanks for the positive feedback on the video. The salvaged wheels and axle could not hold much weight all. The WheelEEZ I used are rated for 158 lbs. I wish I had used the next size larger. See the link below for the complete selection with weight ratings. www.wheeleez.com/wheel-axle-kit-PU.php

[@centerforceone]

+DLMADWI In addition to the right wheels based on the expected load (see my previous reply), you may need to stronger PVC pipe. You would step up to Schedule 40 (thicker wall) and/or a larger diameter. Before doing this, I recommend you visit a big box store and pick up each type of pipe. You will see the thicker/larger pipe is much heavier and will add considerable weight to the cart.

[@kllerk9]

Dave do you list anywhere the dimensions of your cart? thats a good size and it would be so much easier if i knew the measurements. Thanks

[@centerforceone]

kllerk9 I am happy share my plans, but I'll warn you they look a lot like scratch paper. In a general sense, the length is about 5.5' (for the canopy) and the inner width at the top is around 32" (to accommodate our ice chest). I would post a pic of the plans here, but it appears I can only leave text. I will try to send to your G+ page.

[@kllerk9]

That would be great. anything is better than what I have which is nothing. Its come down to crunch time as well, next week we head to the beach for a few days. That will be the perfect time to show off my cart while our friends lug all their stuff by hand in multiple trips. Thanks again I really appreciate it.

[@centerforceone]

kllerk9 For me to get you the plans, you need to accept my invite on Google Hangouts or provide me your Facebook name or email address.

[@Noricocin]

@@centerforceone Can I get your plans as well. noricocin at yahoo dot com

[@centerforceone]

@@Noricocin...I am planning to do a video in the next few weeks where I will share the complete plans and go through the steps to build. How soon are you planning to do your build? Can you wait until Aug 10th? This is the latest I hope to release the video.

[@adalbertomartinez8878]

Looks awesome! Could I get the plans from you?

[@centerforceone]

What I have is more scratch paper than plans, but I will share them with you. Please provide an email address or a way for me to find you on Facebook and I will send them.

[@centerforceone]

I just sent them. Let me know if you have questions trying to figure anything out...Good luck on the your build!

[@garypate552]

Thanks for the update. Where did you order the wheel ez beach wheels.

[@centerforceone]

Last time I looked, they were only available from wheeleez.com/. They should sponsor me for all the times I've sent people to their website. :-) Good luck with your build!

[@garypate552]

@@centerforceone I agree they should give yo a cut.

[@garypate552]

What size do I need they have so many sizes. Sorry if I missed that.

[@centerforceone]

@@garypate552 I recommend the 11.8" diameter wheels

[@garypate552]

@@centerforceone Thank you.

[@Bettebet79]

I need to make a rolling cart that is about 24" BY 30". Can you assit in adapting your plans to a smaller cart?

[@Bettebet79]

www.staples.com/Mount-It-Rolling-Utility-Cart-Folding-and-Collapsible-55-Lbs-Capacity/product_24148263

[@Bettebet79]

Similar to this but with fatter / tougher wheels

[@edvango]

Do you have the link for the wheels kit?

[@centerforceone]

Link below. I went with the 9.4" wheels based the weight I expected to haul, but I wish I had gone a size bigger to the 11.8" wheels. I think they would roll better in sand. wheeleez.com/shop/products/wheels/wheel-axle-kits/wheel-axle-kits-with-polyurethane-wheels/

[@claudeloi]

If you are a little handy there are ton of ways to solve certain issue, like wheel shafts, bearings to prevent wheel wobble and tear the shaft whole. Since you don't use the cart very often, there is plenty time to research and find solution or ideas on the internet. I come up with a lot of fix that way rather spend hundreds of dollar.

[@randotex]

Hello Centerforceone, excellent idea. I want to create a kayak cart and I can run pvc up my scupper holes. Need some suggestions on acquiring the axle and spacers. Any suggestions? Any plans would be welcome if you can email me.

[@randotex]

email is [e-mail] Go Hogs!

[@centerforceone]

I ordered the wheel, axle and spacers from WheelEEZ.com. My plans for more scratch paper than blueprints, but I am happy to share them if you give me an email address or way to find you on Facebook or Linked-In.

[@tonkarose4926]

do you have plans for the beach cart?

[@centerforceone]

+Tonka Rose, I do have plans for the cart that I can share, but I have two warnings. 1) They are rough. They look more like scratch paper than blueprints. 2) All the dimensions were based on my specific materials and gear - original recycled wheels & axle, canopy and ice chest. You will need to modify the height and width of the lower assembly based on your wheels and canopy, the width of the upper assembly based on your ice chest, and the overall length based on your canopy. If you want them, please reply with a way for me to send them electronically.

[@tonkarose4926]

+centerforceone I mainly just need a list of what I need from the store lol. anything would help. thank you!!!

[@tonkarose4926]

+centerforceone my email is [e-mail]

[@NUROCK]

Where can I buy those wheels ???

[@centerforceone]

wheeleez.com

[@tleone911]

So where did you get the freaking wheels?

[@centerforceone]

www.wheeleez.com/

[@PaulaBrett]

Where did you get the wheels? WHEELEEZ??

[@centerforceone]

Paula Brett Yes, I bought them from Wheel-Eez

[@justinsanagustin4011]

+centerforceone What size wheel did you go with from wheeleez?

[@centerforceone]

Justin San Agustin I went with the smallest size with a 9.4" wheel diameter. They are plenty strong, but I kind of wish I had gone with the next larger size for better rolling and clearance.

[@simplyrise5217]

Great video. I'm going to the playground tomorrow and hijack some kids toy truck. " Give me your wheels!" 🔫😎

[@retiredoldsarge5938]

from the looks of the price of those wheels and axle it looks like it would be much less expensive to just go ahead and buy a wagon and then just do a little modification to it then spend 150 to 175 bucks for wheels and axles then add in pvc costs, time etc trying to build one which will dry crack after a while of being in the sun and elements. Or even just get a already finished wagon and lengthen it a couple feet looks like it would be easier to do and last longer.

[@boarlegion5077]

I knew it would be a good video, since it was done by a Razorback. WPS!🐗🐗

[@centerforceone]

Go Hogs!

[@ebonystahr]

is wheeleez paying you for this video???

[@centerforceone]

No, I wish. When it was clear the recycled wheels would not work, i searched and searched for another low-cost option. All my research led me back to WheelEEZ. They are not cheap, but they work like a champ. Maybe if I get a few more opportunities to say that, they will at least send me a t-shirt.