Input on building a detailing trailer

tmurph01

tmurph01

New member
My first season in the industry I wanted to test the waters and see how the market was. I am happy to report that my sales exceeded my expectations by almost triple what I estimated they would be. Due to the success of my first year, I have decided to take the next step and start thinking about moving my operation out of the bed of my truck and into a trailer.


 


Rather than invest in and buy one already to go, I have decided to build and design it myself. This way I can design it the best way for what works with my system. I usually hand wash, but occasionally will use a power washer and foam lance, so i want to be capable of both.


 


This is my first, and initial parts list and ideas:


 


<u>Water Pump</u> - independent pump for hand washing, as well as to feed the power washer when in use.


http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200352045_200352045?isSearch=108560


340 GPH


115 Volt


 


<u>Pressure Washer</u> - I will already have a generator running, so I would rather just use what's already there and go with electric. Pressure washing is only used on roughly 15-30% of my details anyways.


http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200466710_200466710?isSearch=14927


2,000 PSI


1.4 GPM


 


<u>Generator</u> - This is my first what should I do issue. Louder traditional version with more power, or quieter inverter with less power? I'm leaning towards bigger and louder as it will be in a trailer,.. and I would always have some to grow with and could use as a backup at the house.


 


Choice 1 - http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200402906_200402906?isSearch=169141


     3,250 Rated / 3,750 Surge


Choice 2 - http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200402909_200402909?isSearch=169144


     2,000 Rated / 2,200 Surge


 


<u>Air Compressor</u> - Mainly used to blow out vents and fill low tires


http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200455337_200455337?isSearch=305171


2 Gallon


1 HP


2.2 CFM


 


I will buy a water tank locally as they are always on CL. Trailer will be an enclosed 5x8 or similar with a side door and rear hinged (not ramp) doors. Right now I just want to get my list of these "big ticket" items knocked out so I can figure up a rough estimated cost. Ultimately I want to stay below $1500 for these items.


 


Any and all input would greatly be appreciated!


 
 
If I were starting out, I'd build a rig inside the dodge tradesman van.  It's got the heavy duty suspension, a strong motor with 6 speed transmission, aluminum cargo floor and doors all around.  Really well equipped that can be had new for under twenty thousand.  


http://www.ramtrucks.com/en/ram_cv/


Then, I'd go with the Honda inverter or the Yamaha inverter with power surge.  Both in the 3k watt range.  While the Honda has the best rating over all, the additional 500 watts at start up from the battery in the Yamaha takes care of that ramp up at start that makes my machines lag on start and is just annoying.


http://www.yamahamotorsports.com/powerproducts/products/modelhome/444/0/home.aspx


<span style="font-size:14px;">Then, I wouldn't bother with the compressor.  I'd go with the Metrovac Air Force Master Blaster from blowing.  It puts out 600 miles an hour air at the tip and really gets the job done.  


https://www.metrovacworld.com/Master%20Blaster%C2%AE<span style="font-size:14px;"> 


I'd also get this vacuum. Though I'd have to put a different hose and nozzle set up on it.


http://www.ipceagle.com/products/evo


 


I know this is more money but in the end you'll set yourself apart from your competition.  I'd also wear long pants and a solid color golf style shirt with a buckless belt and waterproof shoes.  Also, I'd look into spending some time with people who do leather  and interior restorations, upholstery cleaning, and in a body shop learning how to colorsand.


 


Remember, this is just what I'd do if I'd known what I know now when I started out.


 


Robert
 
Thanks for the input. I thought about finding a good, used cargo van and converting, but decided on the trailer because, I am still small and growing. The capital needed to invest in this route, as well as the added insurance and taxes on this is why I decided on a trail. I already have the truck to pull it. After looking at the pros and cons, the trailer will just be my best route to go with for where I am right now and see myself going the next few years.


 


I agree with you on the Honda Inverter. The more I think about it, the more I would rather have one of them. The only thing holding me back is the cost...


 


I looked into the MetroVac actually. But ultimately decided on a compressor because as part of my services, I check all tire pressures and make sure they are filled to spec. Just a little extra I do that my customers love. Plus having the compressor available will also allow me to have an impact gun on hand in case I need to take wheels off to really get the inside of the drums.


 


I already have a great vacuum, which is why I didn't list that on my parts list.


 


 


 


As far as competition goes... that is one reason my first year was so successful. Including me, there are only 4 auto detailers in a 30 mile radius. Of those three, I am the only one who is mobile. The other 3 have permanent locations. I have actually gotten some business from some of my competitors due to me coming to them. It is more convenient for them and they prefer it. I do offer paint correction and color sanding and have done it to many cars. when I have these jobs lined up, I usually work it out that I get the car at my house so that I can work on them in my garage with proper lighting and facilities.


 


I know a lot of people will suggest spending more up front to have a bigger and better set-up, but honestly, I just cant afford that right now. (Just bought and moved into a new house while supporting my SO other through nursing school). I also do not want to outgrow by business this early. I have a proper business model established and if things grow as I am projecting, a van will eventually show up, but not until the clientel and business is ready to support and fund it.  


 


Thanks for your input though!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top