Trailer Makeover Part 1: Turf the Elephant!

Removing a toilet from a trailer may not make an exciting video, however this is my progress on my trailer renovations. I am modifying my Trillium Outback for Off-the-Grid Camping. More to follow as I continue with improvements.
For a list of all my videos, please use this link: / @slimpotatohead
Website: www.slimpotatohead.com
Products Mentioned (Amazon Affiliate Links):
Mustee Laundry Tub: amzn.to/2UDqppx
My Equipment (Amazon Affiliate Links*):
Osmo Action Camera: amzn.to/2QCSUlh
Action Camera stabilizer: amzn.to/35nRXD2My Equipment
Main Camera: Sony A7Sii: amzn.to/2J9voXk
Camcorder: Sony FRD-AX33: amzn.to/2khCRMT
4K Sports Camera: amzn.to/2Dtsygn
Zoom Field Recorder: amzn.to/2WrLZQU
Shotgun Mic: amzn.to/2kOJqqY
Merlin 2 Steadicam: amzn.to/2X67unS
Tripod: amzn.to/2Xb3EKg
Editing: Powerdirector 17: amzn.to/2KqY8gC
Sports Chair: amzn.to/2OkN7PL
How I get around:
Trailer: 2008 Outback by Trillium
Tow Vehicle: 2010 Jeep Liberty, 6 cyl 3.7L gas engine, 4WD, over 160,000 km
* Amazon Affiliate Links provide me with a very small percentage of the sale with no additional cost to the buyer. Please support Slim Potatohead by using my links for any Amazon purchase. Thanks!

[@virginiatolles1664]

This is what I want to see -- what it takes to make a travel trailer livable. Keep going. You're doing just fine.

[@wildbill23c]

A few people are actually buying cargo trailers and converting them to travel trailers, I guess maybe its cheaper that way sometimes but I think its more so to do with the horrible designs and materials that travel trailers are usually built out of, just buy a shell and design and build it how you want by getting a cargo trailer.

[@anitabackroadsonly9086]

William Sever that's what I did. I didn't know what I was doing, but I like it.

[@meeshyell1]

William Sevier that’s our current plan now put on hold until this virus stuff clears ... we’ve done a few trailer re-builds and figure a cargo trailer built exactly how we want it is the way to go

[@newdogatplay]

@@wildbill23c some places will not accept a cargo trailer for a camper to camp in their camp grounds ,may. Be why he chose an actual camper

[@chadwayne892]

Maybe you have preassure from other viewers, but I have no expectation of this trailer being completed quickly. It seems to me that we can look forward to years of more content that includes the occasional modification episode. So keep having fun and making content material that presents itself in natural progression.

[@MrCrossp]

I’m in coronas virus lock down, you keep the videos coming, I’ve got plenty of time.

[@muditchauhan8990]

I am too in the lockdown in India. I think most of us are in the lockdown. Stay home and stay safe!

[@secondact7151]

@@muditchauhan8990 Just curious about your culture. What type of camping lifestyle is there in India? Growing up in the intermountain west in America, it is what our vacations and traveling consist of.

[@muditchauhan8990]

@@secondact7151 Camping is not much popular in my country (High population density is the reason). However tent camping is popular in the mountainous regions like the Himalayas! But van or caravan camping is next to zero!

[@michaelbarras6950]

The old saying goes, if they don't like it, oh well! 🤪 Slim, you are a man on a mission. Keep on keeping on!👍✌

[@stealthexpressvan8475]

I know this saying but a different ending.

[@michaelbarras6950]

@@stealthexpressvan8475 Haha! That's the one I was thinking but didn't want to say it here with respect to others. 😁✌🍻

[@niceteg]

No matter what others say or expecting from you. You just do it for yourself and it is important! Appreciate it! As always, nice video 👍

[@jimhammit1448]

Land down under

[@davidswatscheno5688]

Slim, the guys who build these trailers should hire you as a designer.

[@constancemiller3753]

yep.I have a trailer with an oven. we take it to Nevada in fall. Never look at 100 degree heat and think hey let's bake a casserole in our trailer. Just want more cooler, storage or movement room. Redesign drawer closers modification ideas?

[@dinasyoyos6384]

Agreed

[@dinasyoyos6384]

On using you as a designer

[@kmbbmj5857]

Yes, I like Slim's designs better than what comes from the factory. Slim builds things for how you actually live.

[@cyndifoore7743]

David Swatscheno yeah really. He needs to patent the stove he made for his previous trailer.

[@ramonyanez3773]

You are my hero! My wife wants me to stop watching you because I want to take a perfectly good Winnebago FB1706 and destroy it!

[@Jean-qn4fy]

Be careful of what you do if you unit is still new. DH made great modifications to our class A that were a real improvement for us and the way e lived. But those changes knocked about $20,000 off what we were able to sell it for, just because they were different.

[@cyndifoore7743]

Jean216 that’s a lot of money!

[@Jean-qn4fy]

@@cyndifoore7743 Yes, it certainly is. We were NOT happy about it. But if you have a fairly new unit, don't make non-standard modifications unless you are ready to lose money. If we are able to get a small trailer and get back on the road part-time, we will get an old one at a price level that we won't care about the resale value.

[@Tahoetom1977]

“The nasty work”. That would have been good for the recent factory modification visit. Really looking forward to more of your boring videos!

[@rcsproject627]

Life would be boring without Slim's modifications of his trailer. Love these videos! Someone wake me up, Not!

[@janandbruceadamsvanadventu3226]

You remind me so much of my father. He never owned a RV or van that he didn't make major modifications to them. All of which made our units so much more livable.

[@JTOwens89]

It's awesome to see the custom shower content that launched this channel coming full circle and now being implemented in your new abode! I feel as though I've just witnessed the phoenix rising from the ashes of Abner! 🤣

[@maryfrady7149]

I bought this house and an renovating it. Within 2 months, people were asking if I was done! Ha!

[@uweschroeder]

Funny. I'm down to the last room and we bought the house in 2005.

[@bustermcmahan8493]

Well done Slim! I do enjoy your ingenuity and design, that corner is so much more useful, as well as that end of the camper! Looking forward to the next video!

[@russakawinderstempling505]

Work Work Work.......so you can Travel Travel Travel.....comfortably!!! Good luck on this new chapter of your travels and adventures Slim!!!

[@susanl4219]

You’re doing really well! Good things come to those who take their time!

[@WeirdSeagul]

perfect upload time. just got back from my 6am shift at my ''essential'' job. shelf stacking a hardware store

[@freespirit6209]

Thanks for doing that essential job! Hardware keeps the world turning so we can all eat and survive the chaos. You are appreciated.

[@johnpurdum8126]

It beats sitting around the house. I'm on modified work schedule for half days and glad I can get out of the house.

[@stevecolby6505]

I love it! Your trailer projects are always very interesting. They get me thinking about what I could do to my trailer. I look forward to the next one as I shelter at home practicing social distancing......

[@MrSparks54]

Good thing you removed the toilet. You know the old saying "don't poop where you eat",

[@kc3503]

Too funny! Thanks for the laugh! 😂

[@bertadelaudebri7179]

At the very least, it keeps you busy during the pandemic period...

[@faithrada]

Truly... if he finished this too fast.. what would he do? How would he entertain us? Warmer weather will be here. Be patient. I loves the process... and spending time with Slim! 😊

[@EerieVonIII8574]

I love this guy!! Slim you saved me about $300 with this video. I was going to have custom bed cushions for my 1970 fiberglass trailer I'm rebuilding. I found some chase lounges that will work better for the space at a fraction of the price. Thank you sir!

[@keithhicks1750]

Excellent Slim. Very interesting and i watched to the end. Looking forward to your next instalment.

[@pmmurf101]

As a fellow Canadian, I think you’re doing a great job, Slim. Doing things right the first time (doesn’t Mike Holmes say that? LOL) is best!

[@gerrymorcom5001]

He doesn’t use enough duct tape.

[@bushwhacker2198]

What ever happened to Mike Holmes? He was good.

[@sharong8511]

Bush Whacker He’s still doing the odd program. He’s got his custom house, garage, and property to enjoy and has handed the reins over to Mike Junior who is now married and has built his own house or rather renovated an older house.

[@macbeckett259]

Sir Slim, pour sand around the boards beneath the shower making a level floor to set the shower tub on. No more bounce or soft spots.

[@robertgullickson8758]

Sand works too, but if you want insulation, maybe expanding foam in the can?

[@cyndifoore7743]

Mac Beckett good idea, I was thinking of silicone.

[@baileydillion9331]

I love the added space and lets face a lounge is always a great addition. I can honestly say going slowly On this project is very important. So you take as much time as you need I’ll continue to learn stuff and be impressed. And I’m really happy to see the elephant is gone from your home.

[@richardchurch3146]

Great Job! No problem staying awake. Your videos are a great diversion from the current problems. I look forward to the day I can get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Keep on keeping on, Eh?

[@vonnettacox4860]

Big azz toilet !!! Love it... I died laughing... Keep up the good work

[@Barchenhund]

I concur with trial and error. It’s like relationships. Trying things out. Somethings work somethings don’t.

[@hopeslife5578]

I like this kind of video's, Good as always. Hope you soon hit the road again

[@susanmboudreau]

Always love watching your modification videos I’ve done tons of modifications to my A-frame as well

[@LaCatLady]

Susan Boudreau Do you have a YT channel, Susan?

[@Deanna52ish]

Wow, you're so creative. So multifunctional.

[@scout437]

So helpful to watch your modifications. I'm always looking for ideas to make my small truck camper more livable. Your videos are great!

[@cotydenise]

Slim, absolutely genius!

[@davidpeters265]

Agree big time

[@stellarhodes4162]

Speaking for myself, I just like “hanging out” with you, whatever you’re up to. Enjoy how you problem solve, and your POV which is always creative.

[@davesimmons8640]

I don't understand people placing judgments on your trailer, how you're modifying it, and whether your work is "pretty" enough. Slim, it's YOUR trailer! If you like the way something works or looks, ignore those who don't like it. They're not going to be using it, anyway. You're going camping, after all, not building a 5-star hotel!! Enjoy making your alterations, and enjoy your new trailer.Can't wait to see what you do with it! One question: What's your plan for protecting the fabric wall in your new shower area? I'm sure you have a great idea. Keep up the good work, Slim. And if someone doesn't like you're trailer, they don't have to go camping with you, do they? BTW, while you were -5F today, we were 86F (30C) in Dallas. Just sayin'.

[@sylviajones4907]

Amazing, Man! And an amazing man! 🙂

[@janmariolle]

It’s so much fun watching you make that trailer your own. That’s how I found your channel in the first place; back when you only had 4000+- subscribers.

[@clarktferrill]

My God,Man...Was there anything about the trailer you liked? I just can't watch! Check back with you much later..this is just too much stress watching destroy this fine trailer..

[@wakeupamerica4610]

....yawn...cough....snort...oh boo i nodded off during your intro lololololol i didnt really.i agree with what you are doing,ive had 2 rv's and both toilets developed leaks ,cracks and worst of all odors.what you are doing is sensible and simple.i like it.

[@samanthadodd8112]

Love ur "own touch" videos. Thanks for taking us along.

[@danmanx2]

Slim, your point at the end of the video is completely true. I modded one of those small 3/4 arcade cabinets. You've probably seen them in WalMarts. The reason was to play more games. I had no experience with woodworking, drilling or modifiying anything except a computer. In the end, I switched out all of the parts myself and drilled through the cabinet to place more buttons. Doing it myself, gave me a huge feeling of accomplishment. You are an inspiration to us all.

[@stealthexpressvan8475]

Good thing you didn't use the word A-frame in the title of your channel. You must have know the saying: nothing lasts for ever.

[@surfpapo]

People are going to bitch doesn’t matter what especially old people that watch this they’re bored and got nothing else to do , do whatever makes you happy 😃

[@johnarmstead1094]

👍🏼

[@JJs-ClassC-Adventures]

You are doing great. Thank you for showing the "boring" details. I never learn anything from videos like these portrayed in a timelapse. Showing the details helps others take from what you have done and apply these strategies to their own projects.

[@Dr-Zoid-Berserk]

Slim’s personality and his DIY reminds me of the red green show.

[@johnsparkman2007]

Just a little surprised you didn't get Outback to remove the toilet along with the other modifications..but you would've had to modify that as well to your liking I guess so it's just as well 😃. Shower looks like a tight fit now but I know you'll whip up something nice and functional. Anxiously awaiting the next video Slim!! Lol.

[@bextar6365]

In the long run... Would have been much wiser and cost efficient to spend a few $$$$ more to purchase the right unit from day one.

[@SlimPotatohead]

The opposite actually. This way I get exactly what I want, for LESS money. SP

[@sylviajones4907]

But he is a "doer," and he wouldn't have had the satisfaction from someone else "doing."

[@conservativegirl7823]

Wow....you are doing it. I know it’s way down the road but when you get your window balance changed to the red that matches your pillows, it will be a most awesome space. Have fun you only live once. Keep safe and enjoy you videos and your creativity.🚐

[@UncleBuckle50]

You might see more major shrinkage if you try cold showers 😉

[@borealiswan2363]

"20 years from now" you won't be in this trailer, you'll be in your next one ... at least you're not babling on about this unicorn (that's what I call this thing going round). You're keeping healthy, busy, constructive, proactive ! Thanks for great example ✌👍

[@jeffreyhebert5604]

I like boring..boring for me is good.. that's why I put your videos on usually late at night...so stay boring...also have a great day.. cheers

[@amascia8327]

Pure genius ! ! ! Of course, "genius" and "loose screw" tend to be somewhat related... Nontheless, I appreciate your brilliant design ingenuity and simplicity. You'll still need to be careful of moisture/condensation in the hidden spaces... ventilation detail will be the antidote. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@Scorpyon7]

Excellent video! Awesome modifications!Love the intro. 😊 Keep em coming.

[@blanchecangas2240]

Good for you slim 👍

[@carolm7828]

Greetings Slim!🙋🏻‍♀️. Your ingenuity is just pure genius!😁. You’re practical which is good, you imagine what you want & need to get it done and your humor & personality is welcoming! With all the things going on in the world, there are some I would truly stand with, enjoy their friendship and have each other’s back and you are one of them! Keep strong, safe and Joyful up in Canada🇨🇦 and in all your travels! 💕Always, Carol

[@dougzirkle5951]

Yes, I must admit, virtually traveling with you on the open road is one of my favorite aspects of your channel. However, equally enjoyable is watching your well thought out modifications...no kidding. Not boring to me at all.

[@barrysoutthere]

Multi-purpose is imperative in our small spaces. Nice work !

[@BackcountryBanter]

Loved it! I'm currently renovating a truck camper and this video has given me some great inspiration. Thanks.

[@ShinerBockGirlz]

Slim, I love the use of reporposing stuffs, but how do you use the restroom now? Could You show that? perhaps in a video(not actually using it lol).....Love Love Love!!!

[@sharong8511]

My question too, Shiner. A guy can easily pee from the doorway but what about women? As we age, male and female, waking up in the night to pee happens at least once, more likely twice, and often thrice! If it’s raining or snowing I’d rather have somewhere to pee inside. I guess a chamber pot with a cover would do for the night. Number one only of course!

[@tamiweber9409]

Great multifunctional use of space 💖

[@bettybrigance6784]

Love your sense of humor....can't wait to see your next video

[@yuiorinthiasanada9448]

slim how are you going to wash your dishes you use when you fix your breakfasts,lunches,and suppers.when you go camping.?slim how are you going to go to the potty in your trailer?when you have to go potty.?

[@SlimPotatohead]

Pamela, this is only part one. Full details will be shown in later videos. Thanks! SP

[@wanmustaffa4633]

The name is Slim. Licensed to grill.

[@greenbillslawncare]

1:20 in I was like "yeah I have some extra time" I'm watching.

[@lizrivard474]

Mr. Potato head, I love your iimagination and ingenuity. Sending you love from Southwestern Ontario. Peace and Many Blessings Li

[@jimh.8138]

I think that you secretly like all the tinkering that you do to your rigs...and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. BTW, I didn’t fall asleep at all. ☺️

[@CheaperJeeperTV]

Hey Slim, Great walk through of your vision so far.

[@TheCampoholics]

Your right I fell asleep when you dropped in the laundry tub.

[@yahyahboy2]

discount billy bob thornton...

[@mohammadarief5203]

This is what I call.."real slim back on business"...👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@felixcat9318]

You make interesting, informative and entertaining videos in which you maximise the limited space you have, making it multifunctional to suit your needs and choices. You have excellent presentation and narration, lighting and sound, ensuring that your viewers can get the most from your videos. The only design, fit out and equipment choice that matters is yours, because this is your trailer and you'll be using it as you choose. You are considerate in explaining your decisions to include or exclude different aspects of the trailer (for example the water heater and the inbuilt toilet and black tank). Thank you for continuing to make these great videos, none of which have ever been boring (other than when you used your drill).

[@maryfrady7149]

Great idea using a laundry sink!

[@bielebah1312]

some nice modification you made..take care n stay safe slim..

[@SuperLaplander]

Good job Slim! Thanks for sharing.

[@danmanx2]

Great video slim! I'm happy to see you in any new video regardless of excitement!

[@sharonnorris4258]

No napping here!! Lol. I always enjoy your videos. Great job!

[@SaintCoemgen]

17:54 -- well, I have been following projects like Sail Life, or Tally Ho, or Skill Builder (they have several projects that progress each week). for a few years now. So, no, not everyone is instant gratification minded. It is like "This Old House" series. Some people actually like that. I do, for example. So you may loose some viewers who need 30 minute gratification, and gain new viewers who like to watch a series. Do what works for you. And you will find an audience. You can not please everyone. So simply please yourself. :)

[@desertrat1357]

Or as whistlendiesel would say, I can't make everyone happy, so i don't try! Check him out!! I guarantee that you will be kept plenty busy watching him during this pandemic! #whistlendiesel

[@jessegarlick2583]

I’m about to start work so I can’t watch the whole video but I’m dropping a like and added it to my watch later

[@carlaifera5254]

.......thank you so much for not talkin' about 'you know what'........yeah........nice, you got rid of that nasty black tank, etc........hasta luego.......🙋‍♀️

[@theresadupuis8475]

GOOD MORNING SLIM 😀 THIS IS A WOW VIDEO 😊 AND A HAPPY ONE FOR TAKING THE TOILET OUT YIPPEE SEE YOU LATER 😊

[@alvashoemaker8536]

...brrr....THAT'S COLD, Slim... I LOVE to see your additions/subtractions/modifications:your.ideas are unique!, Slim; AND, they WORK fantastic!! 👣👍😃

[@adavell]

You can not rush creativity!!! :)

[@hueypilot1950]

What kind of saw blade are you using? I had to cut some holes in a Fiberglas cabinet and the Fiberglas ate up the teeth on my saw blade. Some evening, could you put a 1500 watt heater in the trailer for a couple hours to see what temperature differential the trailer insulation can manage? My goal might be a comfortable 70 F on a 40 degree F night. Camping solo and making videos like you do, if it were me, I would try to figure a way to expand the table top or otherwise find ways to utilize the other seat space for more desk top area. Maybe a two layer desk top that would fold out over the other seat area or out into the isle. Good job.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Hi William, Yes I will do a heating comparison shortly. Just waiting for a reasonable temperature so I can compare it later on. Thanks! SP

[@hueypilot1950]

Did I see a small electric heater in one of your next videos? How did it work for you?

[@robertputnam6324]

Now you have a place for sleep overs .Plum the h2o to the outside for outside showers.Rob

[@K7CARadio]

Yes, now the real elephant in the room is upon us!....... :) To the horror of all those mobbing the stores/online buying up 10 years worth of toilet paper. You pulled out a fully functioning toilet and replaced it with a shower...... LOL Good to see you Canadians have your priorities in check. I'm looking forward to the wood stove installation. Always good to think outside the box and keep them guessing. Stay safe and happy travels.

[@maryfrady7149]

That was a bad spot for the toilet. In the way and hard to get to.

[@marysstilllearning5803]

AGAIN!...slim your a genius. Super impressed. With the ingenuity an fore thought. .. live your best life!

[@HoneyandMe]

I have never owned an RV of any kind that I haven't begun ripping stuff out of or changing it somehow to make it 'my own'. I don't think I could ever buy a new RV, because I'd do the same thing with it. Really looking forward to seeing the transformation of this little beauty, Slim!

[@JC.Journey]

Great video, Slim! Our little fiberglass was built without a shower so we found this entire video intriguing and very interesting. Looking forward to future videos. Keep 'em comin'! Take Care.

[@Uncle-Duncan-Shack]

Awesome work, you certainly know how to organize a trailer by know with your experience. Put some washed river sand in the void under the shower tray and it should be good and firm when stood in? That conversion of the corner has come out super neat, I like! Regards, D

[@charlesknight3204]

Slim ... Very well done!!! I love your patient one step at a time do it yourself common sense approach!!! You keep fixing, I’ll keep commenting, you keep videoing and I’ll keep watching!!! God bless you and yours!!! Chuck Knight from Buffalo, Texas. 🤠👍

[@tusk242]

I would not have wanted the toilet where it was, OUTSIDE would be fine. Did see you convert it to a shower.. I know, to others who think how fast someone doer art on line, think I am able to crank out art just as fast. Nature is not as easy. Wild life does not sit still. Then there is a lot of hidden things I need to do, before I can paint on a flat board canvas, I prime first with Rust-olium flat white paint, sand . Once the under layer of canvas no longer shows i lay down an undercoat of colour. Then I check my sketches. and locate my GOLDEN MEANS ( focal Point) To make post card copies, each one I crop after I made a print and cropped it , then clear coat it, and then glue a backing. or white what it is, species of bird., then remove excess paper WORK

[@uol1051]

Enjoying your thought process as well as renovation techniques. Subscribed right after I found you.

[@DudeMannn]

Ah.... toilet. One of my favorite topics because it involves many sounds and bouquet fragrances.

[@TagNameMaca]

Great job on the video and modification!

[@garym9356]

Hi Slim..What is the dry weight of your trailer?....And I like the modification ...Well done.

[@loreneknight9755]

Slim...keep @ it, my friend. Your mind is always clicking along. It's kind of amazing. I don't understand it, but I don't need to. Can't wait to see your progress. Exciting times, Slim!!!

[@MaDukesMaDukes]

Living the life Slim 😁 Truly blessed... (I'm the queen of insomnia... it didn't bore me to sleep 😜 but I must say, you have a nice voice. Very calming, reminds me of the guy on PBS that did that travel show) Enjoy, stay safe...

[@lynnwendel4302]

I really love your ingenuity. Good luck with your build.

[@shiftintohigh5564]

Hot water doesn’t need heating anyway.🤔🤔😁 Yes! Mr. Potato Head, may I call you Slim?? I am here for the distraction. Dude! You are much more of a man than I am!👍👍👍 Well, this is really getting nutz, huh??.