M416 Aluminum 30 lb Lid build

[brian90744]

Just started making a Lid for my M416, I found a truck fiberglass Tonneau cover, and cut it down to 51.25"x74" to fit the top of the M416. After I cut it to size it still weights 50lbs. IMO that's too heavy. I can walk on this fiberglass on top of the trailer, It would make a great RTT base. However I decided to use Aluminum 4" U channel .062 gauge for the outer frame plus 3 each 1x1"sq cross bars, had it tacked together to see how it looks and it weights 21lbs, I still got to get a .035 aluminum sheet for the top. This is a non weight bearing lid ( no RTT ), This trailer is to carry and for security my supplies behind my camper. Trailer build thread=http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/131046-M416-reconditioning-to-Army-Specs

 

[Kiddmen57]

Looking good! A nice and simple approach. Need a couple brackets to help mount the hinges? I have a couple of the ones I used.

 

[brian90744]

more done to top

Added 1x1 sq center cross bracing and test fit top aluminum. The top aluminum was purchased pre-painted white on one side. Next drill perimeter for rivits, seal and glue top to frame. add hinges and locks. Total weight with top and X braces as of now is 29lbs.

 

[cruisertoy]

Looks good. I did the same thing with 3 x 1 1/2" aluminum tube...But I butted the tube instead of mitering it. I had a sheet of .25" thick ABS sheet kicking around so I skinned the top with that.

 

[brian90744]

Primed & painted top

Well, I sealed and riveted the Top aluminum to the outer frame, and used self etching primer, then Painted first coat of OD paint. Next Rubber seal between top and tub, add the hinges and locks. Close to finish,=brian

 

[brian90744]

More info on lid build

Started to add the hinges, however this is what the tub seal looks like, I think this will stop dirt and water from invading the interior of the trailer. What I like about this lid build is it light weight and no struts needed, I will be using a car hood rod to prop it open. I hope to finish this project in the next 2 days.=brian

 

[brian90744]

Hinges and lift handle

Installed unpainted hinges and lift handle, Now to finish paint on the top, hinges & handle with the 2nd coat of OD, The hinges must be flat to fit side of trailer & lid. I followed Fiberglass M416/M100 Military-style Trailer Tub Kit thread= by JSCHERB post #392 (page40) to flatten the hinges, great idea, brian

 

[harv3589]

Great build! Nice that the top is light weight

 

[brian90744]

Mine is 1966 M416, when I was looking I just wished I could found one like you have=NICE. I paid US$1400, and spent so far $ 650 plus my labor to get to this day. see my thread= http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/131046-M416-reconditioning-to-Army-Specs thanks for your interest.=brian l

 

[Kiddmen57]

Nice work. Super light too.

 

[harv3589]

Mine is 1966 M416, when I was looking I just wished I could find one you have=NICE. I paid US$1400, and spent so far $ 650 plus my labor to get to this day. see my thread= M416 reconditioning to Army Specs. thanks for your interest.=brian l

I paid $1400 Canadian for my trailer and I'm into now many times over what u r and mine isn't close to being done. My lid cost me that to build alone...I can see the light at the end of the tunnel though!

 

[brian90744]

Finished=THE END

I finished painting the lid. No more mods required. I still have to install the auto(hood) lid support rod I got from the JY. thanks -brian

 

[4runnerteq]

That is pretty doggone cool

 

[brian90744]

I did not know just how light my lid project would be? It's nice to open the lid with one hand. I had a taup cover previously and that was a pool of water if it rained.
see attached copy of a aluminum 58lb lid plans posted by GregB_00XJ back in 2012. "Click to enlarge"

thanks=brian

 

[brian90744]

Lift top rods installed

Install final items= 2 Lid top rods,(car hood support rods) I installed one rod in the middle of the tub, and another at the rear so the lid is extra wide open.