The "TRD " M101A2 trailer build

jonesw3

Adventurer
edit: I don't know how to change the thread title but it's a m101a2, not a3!


Several months ago I found a steal of a deal on a M101A3 trailer.So good of a deal I couldn't pass it up even Though I told myself "no more trailers!"
The trailer was about 4 hours away so I had the owner send me several detailed pictures. It was in great shape so I left out early one sat morning to go get it.

Here are a few pictures the day I got her.
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jonesw3

Adventurer
The canvas top, bows, and side rails were all in great shape. She has pretty much brand new tires. The only the needed right away was 12v lights.
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jonesw3

Adventurer
My build plans quickly changed the week after I got her. I found a fiberglass camper shell that was pretty close to the dimensions of the trailer. The best part, it was FREE!
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It's was in pretty rough shape because it had been sitting in the guys yard for almost two years. None the less, it works.

I did a quick clean up and rattle can paint job for the time being.



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jonesw3

Adventurer
Shortly after that I painted the trailer. It will do for now until I have time to completely sand it down and use "real" paint.



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jonesw3

Adventurer
I didn't do a good job of documenting my progress. I removed the surge brakes, welded on an adjustable Lunette bracket and carpeted the interior.
Mounted some 12v led brake lights and led strip lights on the interior and across the back hatch.
Then she sat for about 1 1/2 months because work and family life took up all my time.


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jonesw3

Adventurer
The "TRD " M101A3 trailer build

After a long of of having family pictures taken and then going to a 4 yr olds b day party, I was desperate for some relaxation in nature. So at around 9pm last night I decided to go on an impromptu camping trip to the local national Forrest. I loaded up my sleeping bag, foam mattress, food, and Molly ( our dog ) and we hit the road.
The was the first time I got to use the led strip lights. They worked great!
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The weather was amazing this morning so Molly and I layed around and relaxed before cooking breakfast.
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That's when the trailers name came to me. I am a big Toyota fan so it fits perfectly. The "T. R. D. " , trail relaxation den.


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jonesw3

Adventurer
After a quick bacon breakfast we headed out.
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I found a great spot to test mine and the trailers abilities.
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jonesw3

Adventurer
Thanks! I almost did away with the Lunette and Pintle hitch all together and was going to go with a ball hitch. After today, I'm so glad I didn't. She still has a long way to go but I happy with her.



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jonesw3

Adventurer
I am about to make some changes the the "TRD". After taking a few weekend trips I quickly realized I needed more interior storage space. I started designing a sleeping platform with storage underneath. Then I realized I only left my self with less than 3 ft of head room. That's wasn't going to cut it.

While killing time on my lunch break yesterday I stumbled across another shell that would fit the trailer and was taller. After a few text back and forth with the owner we worked out a trade. I traded a set of wheels and tires I had sitting around for the shell. Win , win situation!

It's going to take some tweaking and a little fab work to get it to fit just right but I think I will be much happier with it over the old one.
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On a side note. I need to get rid of the old shell. If anyone out there wants it and is willing to come to Auburn, Al to get it. I will give you a great deal on it!
I got the shell free and spent about $70 on shocks for the back glass and led lights. I will be willing to let a expo member have it for $50.


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