Got a truck, what's next?

Porkanbeans

Porkanbeans

O RLY?
I got a 2004 Dodge Ram Quadcab on Saturday. I obviously now have the ability to go mobile. I've been trying to think of ideas to organize the bed for all my stuff, but I can't seem to come up with anything that won't cost me an arm and a leg. A truck toolbox is too small, I'd rather have a container or system of organization that is removeable and easy to work with. Any ideas?

Also, can you guys suggest any equipment that would make for a more efficient operation? I'm torn between investing in a pressure washer, water tank, and generator and using the customer's water and power. What do you think is a better setup in the long run, considering I only detail during the summer and weekends during the school year?

Thanks!
 
Sorry I can't offer you any answers to your questions :(
But I wanted to say "Congratulations" on the new wheels & all that goes with them!! Be safe out there!! :)
 
to be honest most customers don't mind if use their power or water, but some are strange about it......I have a 200 gallon water tank that I bought from a friend for 100 and a 200o watt generator that i boiught for 200...so to have your own power and water is inexpensive, so i would recommend having it, but always use the cusotomers if they don't mind......300 is worth it if ur serious about it........to get a cheap water tank, go to a farming store in your area, they specialize in this type of thing
 
i recently got into the business. Its always good to have your own water and power. I have found that a lot of my business is coming from people that want there vehicles done while they are at work. That way i have the water and power in the parking lot away from everyone else. I also pick up business this way, by passer-bys. I have a 300 gallon tank $225(most of my business is 35-40 mintues from home, refill site), a 1200 watt generator $199, a 36" chest tool box $125, a pressure washer from lowes $999. You can get a smaller pressure washer but i went ahead and got the commercial grade one so i can use it around the house also. With u wanting every thing in the bed of your truck its going to be tuff. You really need a trailer. Email me if you need anymore help! [email protected]
 
I was able to fit everything into my mini van, so I would think You should be able to fit into a truck bed...I have a 3500 wat gen, an electric pressure washer, carpet extractor, shop vac, and a 65gal water tank.( I can do four cars before I refill ) I dont do fleet work so I dont need a big tank. Its a tight squeese, but it works well ,and I can lock it up, and in my hood thats a must..
 
Thanks everybody. I looked at some possibilities for a trailer setup today, and it seems like the most logical way to go. I also like that a trailer gets a lot of attention, but on the other hand, isn't stuck with you when the detailing day is over.

Thanks again for the suggestions. I'll try to get some pics of the truck tomorrow after I detail it!
 
Well since you are doing this part-time maybe you should keep it simple.

I always use my customers water and only have used my generator twice. The gen. costs 700 bucks . Honda 1K watts , So to me the generator hasn't really paid for itself. Good to have around the house though for luau's and stuff .

Will your clientel be at garages or business's? Do you need a gen and water tank? start small and then grow, thats my advice.

My most important piece of equip is the hot water extractor. Thats got me alot of jobs.

Good luck , I'm not trying to discourage you at all just want to help you make good business decisions..
 
Beans!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A little styling user friendly cover.
http://www.subcaps.com/store/products/are.php
LSII Tonneau Covers,

Mine is with Wing and 3rd Brake light....no more stuff blowing in the wind.
comes painted the color of your truck. I have had 2 of these all redi and the color match is Dead Nuts on.

Mine set me back 1,300 w/ wing, if memory serves correctly it as a grand for the cap 300 for wing, no charge for brake light a few years ago and it paid for it self a few times over,
Set backs:
Weight:
The one I have is heavy just a tad under 120lbs+.

2-3 times a year I need to remove the cap for one reason or another...It takes two or more to lift it. There are others out there that offer a Lower profile and lighter if weight is an issue.

Good luck.
 
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