Hello everyone, I have the itch to build and I wanted to of course tap into the vast knowledge we have here and to discuses opinions and ideas. I want to build a fiberglass utility bed into a expo camper. Now I have been reading on other projects and I ran across one mention of a fiberglass utility bed build but I can’t seem to find it again even after using the website and Google to search. Now I currently have a M101A2 built with a ARE contractor cap, ladder rack, RTT and all the other goodies. It performed great going cross country last year and we stayed in it every night without issue. But with everything it can be improved upon and I love its ruggedness and durability but I see tons of wasted space. So I want to convert it back to a utility trailer for use on my property hauling wood and what not.
I have found a fiberglass utility bed in great shape and looks to be hardly used if at all. Since I will be using the M101 I cannot simply swap bodies and I am glad I have not swapped axles yet to lighten it up as initially I had planned. So my options are to then either use the existing back end of a pickup and convert it to into a trailer or build a trailer frame from scratch. I would like some recommendations if anyone has any concerning this. I will be buying a new axle but I am unsure of the payload I should go for thinking of what its total weight could be when loaded down with gear. I know I will be planning on two water tanks under the body (potable and grey) to keep weight low and balanced. There should be rock and corner guards tied into the frame to protect the tub. I am also open to a aluminum tub since I have a little time yet until I return from my deployment I want to plan and work out any issues with my thinking for this build.
I would like to see some ideas to utilize the outside boxes as a kitchen with a sink and all the amenities for easy access and whatever else you think should be outside in these boxes. The actual bed will be two large pull out drawers which I think will take advantage of all the space and organize food and dry goods along with gear. I am working on a sketchup layout which I hope to have available soon. I plan on being able to tow this with my YJ, WJ, GW and pickup as the trip will dictate the trip and is needed. As with most expo trailers the intent is to setup a camp and be able to roam with the vehicle.
Thank for your input. Mike
I have found a fiberglass utility bed in great shape and looks to be hardly used if at all. Since I will be using the M101 I cannot simply swap bodies and I am glad I have not swapped axles yet to lighten it up as initially I had planned. So my options are to then either use the existing back end of a pickup and convert it to into a trailer or build a trailer frame from scratch. I would like some recommendations if anyone has any concerning this. I will be buying a new axle but I am unsure of the payload I should go for thinking of what its total weight could be when loaded down with gear. I know I will be planning on two water tanks under the body (potable and grey) to keep weight low and balanced. There should be rock and corner guards tied into the frame to protect the tub. I am also open to a aluminum tub since I have a little time yet until I return from my deployment I want to plan and work out any issues with my thinking for this build.
I would like to see some ideas to utilize the outside boxes as a kitchen with a sink and all the amenities for easy access and whatever else you think should be outside in these boxes. The actual bed will be two large pull out drawers which I think will take advantage of all the space and organize food and dry goods along with gear. I am working on a sketchup layout which I hope to have available soon. I plan on being able to tow this with my YJ, WJ, GW and pickup as the trip will dictate the trip and is needed. As with most expo trailers the intent is to setup a camp and be able to roam with the vehicle.
Thank for your input. Mike
