New M416 build and questioning frame

[maust]

I'm finally to the stage starting to build on an old M416 trailer. It had a few bumps around the edges, but for the age it is in great condition.

Now I'm questioning if I have a RTT hard mounted to a welded frame 22" off the top of the trailer deck if it would be to tall. Problem is I'm tall.
Concern is that it will see highway speeds along with the obvious off roading and it might get tippy.

Alternative thought is to build a hinged lid and mount a RTT lower down, but then access is only viable through the top as there is no tail gate.

Recommendations and insights from other experts are welcome!

 

[Airmapper]

Alternative thought is to build a hinged lid and mount a RTT lower down, but then access is only viable through the top as there is no tail gate.

That is how mine is set up and I like it that way. It has drawbacks but also key benefits.

Fully enclosed means my stuff can be out of the weather and can be locked up if I leave camp or the vehicle. The top of the tent is about level with the truck roof or a bit lower for better aerodynamics. Even with the tent set up I can lift the lid, tilts the tent and it's a bit heavy to lift, but I can access it if needed both while traveling and set up.

Personally I don't like M416 setups with full height mounted RTTs, I've never heard of tipping problems but honestly to me it just looks ghetto. You get higher than the tow vehicle and it looks like some redneck engineered portable deer stand, which is fine if you are a redneck going deer hunting, not so much if you actually want to tow this thing around all over.

Only issue with mine is space can be limited a bit because with the lid it's like packing a suitcase, seems like you always want to bring one more thing that won't fit. Also the low mounting kills awning options or annex rooms which there are time I would really like to have.

To have it both ways would involve a lifting rig and it will be added complexity and weight. So far that idea hasn't been worth it for me to pursue, it's an idea but one I'm in no hurry to investigate.

 

[maust]

Your set up looks great!

 

[NatersXJ6]

If you build tall, it is probably easier to cut down and reattach than to add to something later.

this is the rack I’m working on now for my trailer, it stands about 18” off the lid and so think the lid will be at about 48-50” off the ground. I won’t be able to walk under tent without ducking, but my wife and kids should be able to.

 

[dirtweazle]

Build it at road height. Build a separate frame for just the RTT. Use linear actuators to rise the tent on its stable frame to a comfortable height. Use outriggers on chassis with trailer stands for lateral stability.
my M116a2 has outriggers and I need about 6" more in height. Will be doing the actuators at a later date.