Howdy folks! Today, I want to talk about a topic that many of you have asked about – how to repair your hot dog cart on the cheap.

Whether you're dealing with a used cart that's seen better days or just need to make a few tweaks to keep your business running smoothly, I've got some tips and tricks to help you out.

First Tip: Buying a Used Cart

Before we dive into repairs, let's talk about buying a used cart.

If you're in the market for one, it's crucial to know how to bargain and what to look for.

I've been teaching this for years, and all the information you need is available for free at learnhotdogs.com/usedcart.

This guide will save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars when buying a food truck, food trailer, or cart.

(Helpful Read: Used Hot Dog Cart For Sale – How To Get The Best Deal)

When Your Cart Needs Fixing

So, you've got a cart, but it's in rough shape.

(Very Helpful: DIY Cart Repair Videos)

What do you do?

Well, first off, don't panic.

Hot dog carts are pretty simple machines.

They look good, especially mine, but they are straightforward to work on.

Typically, the tops are made of stainless steel, but they can be constructed from any non-porous material.

Replacing the Burner Unit

One common issue is a faulty burner unit. If your burner is on the fritz, you can easily replace it.

Head over to a company like V-E-V-O-R and buy a two-burner cooktop stove that comes with 20,000 or 30,000 BTU per burner, including the regulator.

This will allow you to replace the entire gas system in a snap.

You might need to mount some clamps to hold it to your cart, but it's not complicated.

If You're Not Handy

Now, if you're like Mike or me and not particularly handy, don't fret.

You can always call in a local handyman.

These jacks-of-all-trades can handle gas, electrical work, and even rerun your lights for you.

Look on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or local Facebook groups in your town to find a reliable handyman.

DIY Water System Replacement

Need to replace the water system?
No problem!

We've got detailed videos on learnhotdog.com that show you how to do it yourself.

Sometimes it's cheaper to DIY, and you'll get the same quality since most components come from China anyway.

(Helpful Read: How To Convert A Hot Dog Cart Water System)

Testing Propane Lines

It's easy to test your propane lines with some soapy water.

We even have a video that shows you how to pressure test it so you can do it yourself.

We had a pro vendor in our Vendors United group, with 30-something years of experience in propane, who teaches our members how to do this.

Talking about Vendors United…

If you want to take your vending business to the next level, go and get together with the best vendors on the planet inside the Vendors United community.

You can learn about it HERE (it is 100% free to try it out for 5 days!!)…

🧡🧡 Vendors United – 100% FREE 5 Days Trial – Try It Today! 🧡🧡

The Bottom Line

And there you have it, folks! Your go-to guide for fixing up that hot dog cart without breaking the bank.

No matter how bad your cart looks, you can fix it, or you can have someone fix it for you, and it doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Whether it's the burners, water system, or propane lines, these repairs can be done on the cheap.

(Helpful Read: Should I Buy a New or Used Cart? Or Build My Own?)

Don't stress out about it; you've got this!

I love you all, and I'll see you soon.

Ben