Building The Ultimate Mobile Workshop Trailer

Building the Ultimate Work Trailer

Introduction to the Work Trailer Project

• The speaker introduces their new project of converting a trailer into a work trailer, having previously used an abandoned house as a workshop.

• They acquired an 8.5x20 ft trailer, which they believe is the optimal size for their needs, emphasizing the importance of space for tools and equipment.

Design Goals and Features

• The speaker aims to create a high-end work trailer with built-in features such as a workbench, storage solutions, solar panels, and power banks.

• Plans include installing hardwood floors using leftover laminate flooring from previous projects, ensuring stability by using heavy-duty adhesive instead of floating installation.

Flooring Installation Challenges

• As they near completion of the flooring installation, there are concerns about having enough material to finish due to special ordering requirements.

• The speaker expresses frustration over not being able to easily acquire additional flooring materials from local stores.

Interior Organization and Planning

• The existing wood panels in the trailer will be assessed for removal; this will help in planning cabinet arrangements for better organization.

• Balancing personal life with building projects can be challenging; the speaker acknowledges both good and bad days while working on this project.

Mental Health Awareness Segment

• A sponsorship segment begins discussing BetterHelp, highlighting how therapy has become more accessible through online platforms.

• BetterHelp connects users with licensed therapists quickly (within four hours), allowing them to receive support conveniently from home.

Workshop Layout Considerations

• The speaker discusses potential layouts for benches and cabinets within the trailer, aiming for efficiency in tool access.

Organizing a Trailer for Tools and Equipment

Designing Compartment Sizes

• The speaker discusses the importance of compartment sizing, suggesting about an inch of space to ensure tools fit without being too loose or too tight, which could lead to bouncing during transport.

Creating Efficient Storage Solutions

• Plans are made to create three compartments with a 1x2 support below to prevent items from sliding out while still allowing access.

• The speaker expresses challenges in organizing tools due to the variety of trades involved (plumbing, electrical, carpentry), emphasizing the need for specific organization strategies.

Layout and Tool Arrangement

• A strategy is proposed where tools will be laid out efficiently before building storage around them, ensuring that each tool has a designated space.

• The speaker mentions making cutouts for toe kicks and creating sections for miter saw placement as part of the organizational plan.

Adjusting Design Features

• There’s a realization that certain design features may interfere with functionality; adjustments are considered to improve usability.

• The idea of adding dividers to create mini drawers is introduced as a solution for better organization within compartments.

Utilizing Totes for Organization

• Four totes are designated for different materials: tile, drywall, electrical components, and plumbing fittings. This helps in reducing unnecessary trips to hardware stores.

• A frame will be built using 1x2 studs to hold these totes securely in place within the trailer.

Enhancing Accessibility and Storage Capacity

• Rigid totes from Home Depot are acquired for storing screws and other small parts; three totes may be more than needed but provide flexibility.

• Shallow shelves with slots will be installed above equipment like air compressors and miter saws to maximize overhead storage efficiency.

Finalizing Workbench Design

• Plans include extending the workbench further out while maintaining structural integrity by using a triangle template as a guide.

• The speaker notes difficulties using laser levels due to trailer movement but plans on reinforcing the workbench with additional legs for stability.

Future Storage Considerations

• Discussion includes wrapping surfaces with plywood and considering additional storage solutions beneath the workbench for miscellaneous items like vacuum cleaners or buckets.

Trailer Storage Solutions

Efficient Use of Space

• The speaker discusses creating a cubby divider to optimize space for tools, preventing them from rolling around during transport.

• The cubby section is praised as an efficient storage solution that keeps items snug and secure while driving.

Aesthetic and Functional Design

• Plans are made to paint the area an accent color, possibly black, and add LED lights for both aesthetics and functionality.

• The speaker considers incorporating spinning plastic pieces to prevent storage compartments from opening during turns.

Innovative Storage Ideas

• New storage units are being designed for awkwardly shaped tools like framing nailers, enhancing organization within the trailer.

• A battery-powered cooler with a power bank is introduced, featuring USB chargers and solar panel connectivity for added convenience.

Challenges in Construction

• The speaker encounters difficulties with tight spaces in construction but remains optimistic about overcoming setbacks.

• Technical issues arise with painting equipment leading to frustration; however, the speaker continues working on the project despite challenges.

Final Touches and Electrical Setup

• Bungee cords are used effectively to keep tools organized during transport without popping out.

Powering the Work Trailer

Setting Up Power for the Trailer

• The speaker discusses using an RV cable to bring power into the trailer without running a long extension cord, aiming for a clean setup.

• A challenge arises due to the thickness of the gap where the power cable needs to fit, leading to a decision to cut a square around it for proper installation.

Organizing Power Systems

• Power is successfully brought from the house into the trailer's power bank, which also receives solar energy from panels on the roof.

• The speaker expresses excitement about having organized power systems that eliminate messy cords, allowing tools like miter stations and table saws to be powered efficiently.

Custom Lighting Solutions

• A custom LED light is introduced as part of creating a high-end work trailer; it features an inspirational quote tattooed on the speaker’s chest.

• Plans are made to mount two lights strategically in the trailer while ensuring wires are neatly supported by power cables.

Testing and Adjustments

• The lights are tested successfully, showcasing an impressive setup that draws attention from outside observers.

• Discussion shifts towards lighting connected directly to truck power; concerns arise about needing lights when disconnecting from the truck.

Innovative Light Mounting Ideas

• A work light with threading will be mounted underneath for versatility; it can swivel for different tasks and has options for battery or cable use.

• An extension cord can be plugged into the power bank, enhancing flexibility in lighting solutions within the trailer.

Improving Safety and Functionality

Addressing Ramp Issues

• The speaker identifies issues with an ugly ramp that lacks traction when wet; plans include sanding down surfaces and applying anti-slip paint.

Application of Anti-Slip Paint

• The chosen product is "porch and patio anti-slip floor paint," which contains aggregate material but comes only in white.

Preparing for Final Touches

• Initial observations reveal that existing paint is durable epoxy; plans include applying multiple coats of anti-slip paint for better coverage.

Tour of Mr. Builda's Mobile Workshop

Overview of Setup Features

• Introduction to Mr. Builda's mobile workshop includes details about powering systems, such as a battery-powered refrigerator stocked with drinks.

Efficient Organization Inside Trailer

• Solar panels charge batteries while portable tools are organized inside drawers secured with bungee cords during transport.

Mobile Workshop Overview

Features and Organization of the Mobile Workshop

• The mobile workshop includes various tools such as track saws, circular saws, and a big mixer. The paint on the trailer has a grip that prevents items from sliding during transport.

• A dedicated stand for the miter saw is present, along with organized levels and jigs. Essential screws are neatly stored to ensure easy access.

• The workshop features a spray section for paint and texture sprayers, alongside a ladder rack. Ryobi tool packs are secured with bungee cords to prevent movement.

• Additional storage includes clamps and space-efficient organization in corners. A fan is available for ventilation when working in hot conditions or drying textures quickly.

• The layout allows for convenient storage of drywall squares and extra batteries. There’s also a motivational sign displayed prominently within the workspace.

Efficiency of Space Utilization

• Concerns about the trailer's length (20ft vs 16-18ft) are discussed; however, the extended length provides ample countertop space which serves as workbenches.

• Countertops facilitate easy access to tools without needing to place them on the floor, enhancing workflow efficiency by allowing quick retrieval of needed items.

• Emphasis is placed on creating a mobile workshop that maximizes space while maintaining cleanliness; this setup aims to replace traditional garage functionality effectively.

Conclusion