Jumping Jack Trailer......build?

[supersaver18]

Jnich,

I really want to go with the heavier 8000 Frigidaire model http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FJ32BSW/ref=psdc_3737721_t3_B003O970PW for the extra btu's, remote option, and better reviews on amazon than the 5000 but option. Only thing is, it requires 14inch min height instead of 13. I measure it out and there is exactly 13inches without cutting into the top side of the frame. I'm thinking of still doing it though as I don't think it would ruin structural support to shave an extra inch off. Thoughts?

Also, how did you cut, mount and seal the one you had? Feel free to PM me It looks fantastic and I'd like to do the same. If you would rather/be willing to explain over the phone send your number via PM and I'll give you a call. Thanks in advance!

 

[Deleted member 9101]

I think mine barely fit. I just made the hole 1/8th of an inch bigger than the A/C then used 3M-5200 to seal it. I had to make some little trim pieces to hold the fabric around it.

I cut it with my reciprocating saw and a find point metal blade on the "inside" of the line. I went pretty slow so I could get a straight cut. Then I used my grinder to get to get it exact. To make things easier, I pulled the tent portion out of the trailer.

I don't think it will really effect the strength of the trailer, unless you are loading some really heavy toys on top. Even then you could build a header to span the opening and reinforce it.

 

[supersaver18]

Jnich that definitely helps. I'll be sure to post pictures once everything is complete. So far I've turned the propane rack into a double propane rack. It seemed like a good idea since in the winter I run the buddy heater and sometimes use the propane for the grill or a generator at the same time but now that I am putting the A/C in, the A/C will block me from using the second hole...didn't think that one through! I'll post pictures of the deck and my entire set up once complete.

 

[RubiconGeoff]

The reason I brought up the tongue weight is because on my similar Lifetime Tent Trailer, I was tired of the back of my Jeep squatting down from the increase in tongue weight as soon as I'd load anything onto my trailer. I had to be very mindful of how I'd load even a little bit of stuff into my trailer to properly manage tongue weight. Unloaded, my trailer's tongue weight was 115lbs, but by moving the axle forward 4.5 inches, I dropped it to 85lbs. The tongue weight difference is even greater when gear is added, for instance when I load my tongue-mounted jerry cans onto the trailer. A fullsize pickup won't mind big tongue weight, but a Jeep definitely does.