Dumb Trailer Build Questions

[Brettski]

Hello everyone!

I've been a long time lurker on Expo and have gotten the build a trailer bug. Previously, I had an All Terrain Camper on a Tundra and have built a drawer/sleeping platform setup in the back of my '02 Land Cruiser. Also have a '15 4Runner I'm looking to start getting dirty. I've done a little bit of welding (but have some friends who can do much better) and am an able woodworker. Mechanicals- I've got friends for that.

Now that I'm totally sucked into starting an off road build, I have a few dumb questions (even after reading like 50 threads). Maybe others have these too (and I won't feel so dumb).

First, to be clear, my goals for this build:
-Teardrop style WITHOUT the kitchen
-High clearance 5x8 platform (trying to keep it as small and maneuverable as possible- I'd even do 5' x 7')
-Hatch in the back so I can use this for general hauling stuff too (like furniture or other errands).

So here comes the dumb questions. And thanks in advance.
1. MOST IMPORTANT- what base trailer to use? El cheapo and change the axle, add strength, or something beefier? Where to get it?
2. How have so many of you attached the wall to the frame? I see lots of adhesive, but what about interior mounting of cabinets...do you bolt through the steel members or simply machine screw into them? Or just use the internal ply walls for support?
3. I see a lot of nice trim where two exterior walls meet. How is that edging fixed on?
4. I've seen reference to registering at the DMV. Anyone know what the requirements are in CO? I couldn't find the info online, though it must be there.

I'm sure I'll have more, but maybe others can add their simple dumb questions to this thread too. Thanks.

 

[old_man]

I built the trailer from scratch, including suspension design. Not everybody can do that but trailers like the Harbor Freight one are simply not rugged enough for the back country stuff I do.

My walls are actually framed with steel and are welded to the trailer platform. After that I sheet and insulate them.

The edging is soft aluminum and has holes to screw it to the edge. Once that is done, you slide a vinyl insert in to hide the screws. Don't forget to seal under the extrusion before screwing down.

Registering in Colorado isn't that hard. You may be required to show that you built it, such as receipts for materials. You get the form online, fill it out, schedule with the CSP to inspect it, and pony up the $$$. It wasn't that expensive several years ago when I did mine, but the yearly tags run around $80.

Where in Colorado are you? I live in Loveland and work in Boulder.

Here is a link to my build thread.

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/77927-quot-Old-Man-s-Toy-quot-offroad-teardrop-trailer

 

[Brettski]

Thanks for the response. I read your entire thread the other day with great interest and admiration. I'm in Highlands Ranch, but I'll drive up to meet you someday.

I was hoping not to have to fabricate the frame- I'm worried about getting it true. Mine will be lighter than yours (no kitchen). I wonder if a HF frame will work, especially if I add some extra bracing? And my strength goal is not extreme rock crawling, but being able to drag it over something if I mess up my line. I'm generally on trails rated 3-4, 5 at most.

 

[jonesw3]

My recent/ on going trailer build is similar to what you are wanting to build. I used a 5x8 big Tex utility trailer as my base. Here is my build thread.

Utility trailer teardrop/ off roadish camper build
https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink?ur...&share_tid=161384&share_fid=7335&share_type=t



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[old_man]

Getting it true isn't that hard. Surprisingly enough, it doesn't matter that much either. I really recommend going with air bag suspension instead of leafs. It isn't any cheaper and you can adjust bags any way you want. I also recommend shocks.

If you were to get the steel and parts, I'm sure we could work something out where I would weld it up and give you some guidance.

 

[Brettski]

Another, totally different topic: trailer skin

Has anyone ever skinned with marine plywood and then just rhino lined it? That seems like it would be weatherproof, durable and easy to clean with a regular power washer. Am I off my rocker?

 

[Waygoner]

I picked up a 5x8 utility trailer from Tractor Supply brand new for $600. I had a coupon for $100 off. I couldn't find anything used even close to that. It came with all of the paperwork for the DMV. Registering it was no problem. It would make a good base for what you're planning.

 

[old_man]

That would probably work but would look weird :Wow1:

 

[jwiereng]

check out monstaliner link.

Some ExPo members have used it over plywood

 

[Brettski]

Super naive question: what does everyone do for a trailer jack? Foot or wheeled? What sort of cranking lift is optimal?

I ask because my axle, on 31" tires is going to be about 15" off the ground and the frame/tongue is probably going to be about 24" off the ground (guessing, since I just started welding it all up and the springs aren't on yet). So if the jack hangs below the frame, say 7", then I'll still have ample clearance, but need about 16" of lift. Or am I just overthinking this?