M416 hybrid (updated w lots O' Pics)

[preacherman]

M416 hybrid (updated rebuild v 3.0!)

(Updated in post #36 with version 3.0!)

I have been threatening to build a trailer for a while when this week I finially found a reason. This week I acquired a m416 tub that is solid and ready to become a trailer. I have the tub, axles, leaf springs and hangers but nothing else. Considering I paid $96 I'm not complaining about the little detail that I am missing a frame...

I am not worried about finding an original frame bc I like the idea of building my frame to my measurements and desires. This will allow me to do things like make a longer front section for a trailer tongue box or a max coulpler as well as add features i want. This will also let me save time by not having to hunt down an old frame.

So my first question on this build is thus...if building an m416 frame from scratch what would you use. I am thinking 2x2 square tubing. I want it to be heavy enough to withstand being used but light enough to pull behind a lifted jeep.

Also does anyone have exact measurements of an 416 frame? I could use that to start from.

 

[SWITAWI]

Closest thing I could find - http://forum.ih8mud.com/trailer-tech/151174-m416-dimensions-specs.html

 

[Smksignals]

M416 frame in So Cal -

http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...ind-In-SoCal-Craigslist?p=1003399#post1003399

 

[bob]

2x2 120 wall should be more than enough for your build. Looking forward to seeing it develop. Great buy!!!!!

 

[Hill Bill E.]

M416 frame in So Cal -

http://www.expeditionportal.com/for...ind-In-SoCal-Craigslist?p=1003399#post1003399

Not sure what that is, but it's not an M416 frame.

Preacherman, I have the M416 manual in PDF form. If you PM me your email, I can send it to ya. (can't figure out how to post it here :snorkel: )

Like bob said, 2x2x.120 wall will be more than adequate.

 

[preacherman]

Thanks, pm sent

 

[Hill Bill E.]

Thanks, pm sent

Hopefully got it emailed to you. :snorkel:

You may end up with 2-3 emails from me, since I had to figure out how to send/attatch it!

 

[socaljeeper]

I think most off road trailer manufactures go with 2"x3"x.120 for thier frames. I used 2"x3" for my trailer. It is plenty strong and it gives you and extra inch of room for whatever. Think about what accersories you will be putting on the trailer like racks, lighting, spare tire and how they will attach.

 

[preacherman]

The more I think about it the more I am leaning towards 2x3. It looks like the original steel used was 2x3. 2x3 would also better accommodate some of the plans I have for it.

 

[Hill Bill E.]

The original M416 frame is made from a 2x3 "C" channel, instead of 'box' tube.

I think you would be better off using the 2x3 box style tube like you say. It will be stronger, and accommodate any additions, like a rear receiver for bike racks, etc.

The extra weight will be down low, so the COG shouldn't be effected very much.

 

[preacherman]

Today I was able to get alot done on the trailer. The trailer was solid (no rust) but does have some body damage and some issues. Here are some pics from today. (sorry for the crappy cell phone pics, I didn't want to wast time getting the good camera out)

The body;

The rust free bottom

The main problem was a bent top rail on the passenger side. To show how bent it is I placed a piece of wood on it.

I spent a lot of time trying to figure out how I wanted to bend it back. I beat it with a hammer for awhile and then got smart. I used some pipe clamps and my hi-lift to slowly bend it back. The hi-lift worked great as a clamp with the clamp attachment.

After a few hours of bending and body work ( I also spend some time working over small dents) I moved on to cutting out the tailgate section. I am actually going to have to use the front as the back and the back as the front. The back of the trailer is pristine and the front is trashed, so I flipped it and cut the front out. I am going to be building a tailgate from scratch and it just made more since to cut out the trashed section. I like the data plate on the front anyhow.

That was as far as I got today. I may start welding up the frame tomorrow. I went with 2x3 .120 wall for the frame. I have most of it cut out already (sorry no pics yet).

I have some big plans for this trailer and I am excited to get it started. I will try to keep updates...up to date

 

[Hill Bill E.]

Nice!! I would love a tailgate, but can't bring myself to cut one in yet.

 

[preacherman]

Nice!! I would love a tailgate, but can't bring myself to cut one in yet.

It was an easy decision, the only part of the trailer that was unrepairable was the section I cut out.

 

[Dirtytires]

^^^Usually the way it goes.. Looking forward to see the progress.

 

[preacherman]

I'm working on the frame today and ran into a question. Does anyone know the location measurements of the spring perches? I think I know the axle center line but I need the measurments for where the spring Perches are located. I.e. how far apart and how far back.