As an RV owner, it is necessary to utilize tools and accessories that the rest of the population might not ever consider! Take, for example, the Barker 4-Wheel Tote Tank. It’s something you need only if you’re an RV owner, and only if you camp at locations with no sewer connection. But you may have questions about how this thing works! Keep reading my affiliate review of the Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank and I’ll show you around!
Commonly Called a Blue Boy
Commonly called a Blue-Boy, this unit is constructed from blow-molded polyethylene, zinc-plated steel, and aluminum, and is designed to be a quiet, smooth-rolling unit. Depending on the size you select, it could look something different from these images.
Be aware that some models are constructed differently! I selected this model because the WHEELS got good reviews!
The double-wheel on the front is mounted to an extra-large, heavy-duty plate, and is swivel engineered for easy maneuvering. The pneumatic premium wheels, in two sizes, have axle bearings and grease fittings. (50 PSI 10″ and 30 PSI 6″ premium wheels.)
An Adequate Tow Handle
Each “tow on the ground” tank has a handle that serves as a tow bar and can be pulled for short distances behind a bicycle, ATV, or any vehicle. Tie-it-down, though! Because it will bounce right off!
Additionally, each unit is equipped with a quality, 3″ diameter conventional waste valve for ease of use and dependable performance.
It Comes With Necessary Hoses (except one)
It comes with a 3” diameter hose that is long enough to reach from the RV to the Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank. It also has an attachment for connecting a water hose to the top of the unit without getting everything wet. The small gadget in the picture is the bobber that indicates the fullness level, but I rarely use it.
However, it does not come with a 90-degree elbow that allows the waste to flow into the pit. And you’re going to need one! Sometimes the waste station provides it, but I wouldn’t count on it! Fortunately, as an RV owner, you probably already have one of those. If not, this one will attach to the end of the hose that comes with the unit.
The Best Size Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank
These tank capacities will accommodate virtually all sizes of RV. But before you make a purchase, there are a couple of things to consider.
- First, consider the storage space when it is not being used. Perhaps space limits the size tank you decide to purchase. In which case, get that one!
- Also, the unit is bulky and awkward. So if you’re thinking about lifting it to store it, give some consideration to its weight.
- Then, determine the ideal size Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank you need. They are available in 16, 25, 32, and 42-gallon capacities, and they are made in the USA.
- To do this, take the size of your RV’s grey water holding tank, and add it to the size of your RV’s black water holding tank.
- Ideally, your Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank should be that big. At the very least it should hold the contents of one of the tanks.
The 25-gallon unit is perfect for my T@B. It weighs 35 pounds and measures 37 x 24 x 11.5 inches.
Here’s The Rundown
So if you’re new at this like I was, let me give you the rundown:
- First, inspect the unit for damage, and if this is the first time using it, make sure the wheels are mounted in the proper direction (and not backward, as some users have reported.)
- You might even run clean water into the tank to be sure there are no leaks.
- Roll the empty tank to a position near the waste exit valves on your RV.
- Look near the base of the Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank. And make sure the discharge valve is shut.
- To transfer the goods from your RV’s holding tanks into the Tote-Tank, attach one end of the hose to the RV,
- And attach the other end of the hose to the top of the Tote-Tank.
- Some people use a clear 90-degree attachment (link below this paragraph) so they can see the contents fill the unit, but that’s not necessary.
Blackwater, Greywater, Freshwater in That Order
Once the hose is attached at both ends:
- On the top of the Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank, open the air-vent / filler valve.
- At the RV, pull open the lever for the blackwater tank and drain it first. That way, the greywater will rinse most of the blackwater from the hose.
- Close the blackwater tank and open the greywater tank.
- Once the greywater is drained, run a gallon (or so) of clean water into both the black and grey tanks, (from inside the RV) and let that drain again.
Determining the Volume of the Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank
- There is a gauge that shows you how full the caddy is getting, but it must be removed so that air can leave the unit as fluid is coming into it.
- But there are other ways of telling how full the unit is getting. And after you’ve done this once or twice, you just know.
- For example, you already know the capacity of your holding tanks, and you might have an idea of how full they are, even if the sensors on the RV holding tank are dirty. So, if necessary, make more than one trip.
- Once the RV holding tanks are empty, or the caddy is full, remove the hose from the RV first, allowing the remainder of the water to drain into the caddy. Allow some fresh water to run through the hose. Then remove the hose from the caddy, too.
- Put the caps back on: The big 3” cap AND the smaller vent cap.
- Now you are ready to transport the goods.
Transporting The Goods
Now that the RV is empty and the Caddy is full, it’s time to transport it to the waste station. The round handle can be dropped over a trailer hitch ball, but you should tie it on, somehow, so it doesn’t bounce off.
This unit can be pulled by hand, by motorcycle, ATV, or by vehicle. Some people report towing it over a mile with no trouble. And some people choose to upgrade the wheels depending on how far they must travel. Your call.
When you arrive at the waste station, don’t get too close! The hose works best when it’s stretched out (and not coiled).
At The Waste Station
- Sometimes, the waste station provides the hose that goes into the pit (the one with the elbow) but you should come prepared.
- Attach the bent end of the waste hose into the pit. Attach the other end to the side/bottom valve on the caddy.
- Open the top vent for air, and then pull the handle up to dispense the contents into the pit.
Clean Up Your Barker 4-Wheeler Tote-Tank
- As it empties into the waste station, run some freshwater into the caddy (there’s usually a water source at the waste station). Hose it out, and then tip it a little, so it all drains out.
- Once the caddy is empty, push the lever shut, disconnect the hose from the caddy, and run fresh water through the hose into the pit (where it is still attached).
- Cap-off the valve on the caddy. Put the air-valve cap back in place. Don’t tighten the big caps too tightly, as they’re difficult to get open when you use the caddy again.
A Few Final Tips and a Video
Once the holding tanks are empty, be sure to replenish the holding tank treatment. This treatment will break down solid matter and will minimize the odors. Follow the directions on the label, pouring it directly into the toilet bowl (the black water tank), as well as pouring some down the drain, into the gray water tank.
And now that the Barker 4-Wheeler is empty, where do you put it? If you’re on a campground, just push the caddy under the RV, and run a cable/lock through the handle to deter theft.
Alternatively, mount it to the side of the RV, store it on a porch or platform, or put it in the bed of your truck.
I’m on private property at the moment, so I store mine in the garage.
In short, if you can’t tell, I absolutely LOVE this unit and I appreciate you reading this Affiliate Review of the Barker 4-Wheeler Tote-Tank.
Take a few minutes to watch this video, especially if you have any questions or concerns. Meanwhile, if you have a story to share about your experience(s) on this topic, Please DO TELL!