Bedwell's M416 Trailer Build

Bedwell

Observer
We hooked up the trailer and took a quick spin down the driveway. It was my first time ever towing anything, so I took it slow and was very careful. I was surprised how level it sat so I guess I don't need to do a spring over or lift!






 

Crush Jeep

Adventurer
When I broght my trailer home we flipped it up side down on the trailer and it fit fine. Enjoy the project, it's never ending. It looks like you have a good starting point.
 

Bedwell

Observer
When I broght my trailer home we flipped it up side down on the trailer and it fit fine. Enjoy the project, it's never ending. It looks like you have a good starting point.

This is not the first M416 to come home on that trailer. :sombrero: So I knew it would fit snug, but it would fit. I will remember to flip it if we need to for next time though. I am exicited to start on this since it will be a change from working on the TJ all the time.
 

Bedwell

Observer
Looks like a really nice trailer. Have you said how much it set you back?

Not until now. :sombrero: I paid $800 (he was asking $950) and about $50 in gas to check out the trailer and to bring it home this weekend. Not as good as some of the deals I've seen on here but the platform is solid and was worth the price. I don't expect to replace any panels or the frame. I will properly restore it so the trailer can last another 47 years on the road. :)
 

Flashole

Adventurer
Not until now. :sombrero: I paid $800 (he was asking $950) and about $50 in gas to check out the trailer and to bring it home this weekend. Not as good as some of the deals I've seen on here but the platform is solid and was worth the price. I don't expect to replace any panels or the frame. I will properly restore it so the trailer can last another 47 years on the road. :)

If it's as solid and straight as it looks, then I'd say you did good. Congrats!!!
 

Bedwell

Observer
The trailer is a nice fine. I can't wait to see the final product. The TJ is sweet! The tube work looks great.

Thanks! The cage was built by AtoZ Fabrication in Schuylkill Haven PA. Custom cage tied into the frame and ability to use dual tops.

Does the park brake still hold? I see its not being used.

The parking brake works. I guess I forgot to pull the lever when I took the picture. :sombrero:

If it's as solid and straight as it looks, then I'd say you did good. Congrats!!!

I guess I will find out when we start restoration. Next post I am going to put some ideas out.
 

Bedwell

Observer
I want to get some feedback on some ideas I have for the trailer...

***Tagged and titled before any modifications begin. :sombrero: ***

1. Frame off restoration (sandblasted and repainted.) I'm thinking olive drab for the tub (bedlined inside and underneath) and military rims, black powder coated frame. I will paint the stenciled military numbers and stars on when finished. Id like to add corner steps that tie into the tub and fenders.

2. 3500# trailer axle with electric brakes and functioning parking brake. Replace springs and shocks. (Stock height)

3. New military tires (mine are dry rotted)

4. Extended frame / tongue? I want to add the harbor freight box to the front and the Jeep tire carrier and tailgate will not be able to open all of the way.

5. Proper hitch setup (The ball hitch on there now is kinda hacked together, I might keep the ball hitch until I feel comfortable towing and may convert to something better suited for the trail. Suggestions?)

6. Redo trailer electrical system and lighting.

7. Misc.
- Tire Carrier
- Harbor Freight tongue box
- Trasharoo
- Lockable Metal Lid
- Roof Top Tent
- Alot of cool electrical gadgets

Feedback and criticism is welcome.
 

Flashole

Adventurer
My only suggestion is to do ALL of the fabrication work before sandblasting, powder coating, bodywork, etc.
 

Bedwell

Observer
Spoke with one of the local tag and title companies today, both good and bad news.

Good news is that I can get it registered, bad news is its not through MD. I will have to go through Maine to get my tags since MD makes it near impossible to register.
 

Bedwell

Observer
So I may have located a vin on my trailer. But its only 16 digits? Its stamped on the right side tongue / frame (facing trailer.) Its engraved into the frame and not like cars where it has a plate that can be removed. Very interesting and might help in getting a proper title for it.

Might pull the trailer in the shed and begin teardown today too. :sombrero:
 

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