Utility Bed Build - Project: Big Bend

[blueboxfj60]

Hi All,

I made a breif intro thread a while back about my new expo trailer project using a fiberglass utility bed.
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/165633-New-builder-with-a-utility-bed

Ill be using this thread going forward to document the build, ask questions and gather input.

My wife and i have set a goal of building this and taking our now 2 years old daughter out to Big Bend for a 10 day trek by 2018.
We are build a s single income budget, so it may take the full 12+ months to complete.

So far since my intro I have planned out a rough frame and material design. Last night i picked up some used wheels ill be using. So this weekend i up to make some final measurement and order my axle.
Ill be ordering a 3500lb straight axle from Southwest Wheel out of Dallas.
https://www.southwestwheel.com/c-1248-3500-lbs-straight-trailer-axles.aspx

below are a few pics of the bed and plans.
Looking forward to your input and learning as i go on my first trailer build.

 

[Mark Harley]

Looking forward to this build.

 

[damon1272]

Should be interesting. I like the fiberglass bed. Did mine with a steel bed and it is too heavy.

 

[Nryke]

Utility Bed Trailer

Working on something similar than yours, got an ex military trailer made of aircraft aluminum, curb weight 1330 lbs. Removed the fenders and installed the sides of an fiberglass/ aluminum utility bed. Remove the floor and set aside for future use on may be a ceiling/rack?. Utility bed floor is 48" and the width of the trailer is 56".
Here some pictures of work in progress.

 

[blueboxfj60]

Looking good Nryke

my project timeline as been delayed even more so than before. Single income family budget has hit some speed bumps.....:smilies27

Was able to find a great deal on some wheels and tires for the project

 

[brbobcat]

I have a similar project going on. I have the same brand bed, but with the full width cross though and the enclosed cover/rear doors. I have build a stainless slide out kitchen for the passthrough. Currently, I'm having a boxed frame built with a swing away tongue and fully articulating hitch. Axles are independent swing arm, 6000# rated. Might be with comparing notes. I'm at $15,000 so far.

 

[blueboxfj60]

Got a build Thread or some pics ?

I have a similar project going on. I have the same brand bed, but with the full width cross though and the enclosed cover/rear doors. I have build a stainless slide out kitchen for the passthrough. Currently, I'm having a boxed frame built with a swing away tongue and fully articulating hitch. Axles are independent swing arm, 6000# rated. Might be with comparing notes. I'm at $15,000 so far.

 

[brbobcat]

I'm not sure if these pics are going to attach or not. I hadn't tied before.

 

[brbobcat]

I'm waiting on a fab guy to complete the frame. I have about 5K into the hard side tent that goes on top. Underside has fuel tanks and water. Has propane tanks, on demand HW, exterior shower, 2 batteries, solar, inverter, etc.

 

[brbobcat]

 

[brbobcat]

Axle

 

[brbobcat]

 

[blueboxfj60]

I got a few more parts in last week for the build. 3500# axle, springs, nuts/bolts etc.

Hopefully i can place my metal order in the next 6 weeks and get some real progress made

 

[blueboxfj60]

Made some good progress this weekend
:wings:

 

[Expedition.Report]

Its starting to look like a trailer! Keep the posts coming!