Project Downsize- a 5x8 build

[dulltip]

Given I've learned a lot from the build posts here I figured I will add to the mix.

My wife and I sold our 5th wheel and opted to find something that we can tow with our Jeep.

A big thanks out to @Jmanscotch for his inspiration and detailed build threads. I won't be able to match his level of craftsmanship but hopefully someone finds it informative. Worst case, you can learn how not to do things.

With our kids looking to leave the nest soon we didnt need a large trailer and settled on a 5x8 enclosed trailer. Our plans are to build it out to meet our needs.



First step was to seal the roof with Henry's Tropicool.


Then we spent hours and hours working on layout ideas. Which we've already changed up a few things as we've started the build. I envision more changes as we keep moving forward.

 

[dulltip]

Removed all the paneling to expose the framing as we were about to make some modifications.


We went with some Leisure doors and Recpro windows via Amazon for both sides.


S pent some time figuring out a layout that works with minimal impacts to the factory framing, and yet met our design needs, it was time to cut holes and weld in new square tubing for new frames and supports.

 

[dulltip]

I made the decision to pull out the flooring as it would make it easier for other modifications I was dreaming up.


Plans is a 30-40gal water tank underneath, as well I want to try and have a hidden storage box in the floor.


Looking to extend the tongue. Mostly to make towing a bit easier, but also allows for a box and other items to be stored out front.



I had an old yardsale truck tool box rusting out back and thought it might work for a box. But we found a little too much rust in the bottom. No worries I have another one that will work.



Working on extending the tongue. Design allows for tailgate of jeep to swing open while hitched, as well I can almost jack knife the trailer 90deg to allow for navigation in our tight backroads.





I was looking to go with some old jeep springs but wasn't happy with the overall lift as it was going to put our rear kitchen galley counter top too high for our liking. Also the axle was going to impact the water tank at full squish. So I placed an order for a Timbren suspension which dropped me back down and allows for the water tank where I want it. With a skid plate of course.

This was just a mock up picture. Don't roast me over all the hangers in the wrong geometry. Lol

 

[dulltip]

Starting to ponder a tongue box and how big to build it.


The Timbren also arrived (bought from eTrailer)


I went with brakes as we see a lot of long and steep grades and I'd like to not cook my tow rigs brakes if I can.


Before I could mount the suspension I needed to do some work on finding a proper tongue weight. Lots of adding up weights and then math I never thought I'd use since high school.




I settled on something I hope works out and figured I can move it back further if needed. Just need to finalize it before I build fenders and sliders.

Install went pretty easy. Measured spindle to hitch more times I can remember. I've built some bigger trailers, including tandems, and know the importance of getting those spindles matching.


Timbren inclueded hardware to mount the spindles to the trailing arms. It might look like grade 8, and even have markings for grade 8, but it didn't get beyond 80ft/lbs and they call out a torque of 90-95ft/lbs. For fun I tried two other bolts in the kit and they stretched out like an hour glass.

So I'm putting in all new grade 8 hardware throughout the install. Not the first time I've given myself a fat lip from a snaped bolt, but I'd be fine if it was my last.



More to come as we make more progress....

 

[b63215b]

Nice are you worried about ground clearance with the water tank below?

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[b63215b]

Before I got to the pictures of your tongue area I was going to say you should extend and you already did, nice. It will back up so much better with extending it for sure.

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[dulltip]

Nice are you worried about ground clearance with the water tank below?

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I'm adding an aluminum skid plate to protect the water tank.

 

[Moyshe Kapoyer]

Looks like a fun project.

 

[dulltip]

I was not liking the ride height of the trailer both in ground clearance and lining up with my receiver hitch and wanted it a little higher.

So I lifted the frame by adding in a 2x3 tube under the existing frame.



Happy with that I moved on to working on the underfloor box idea.
I relocated one of the cross members to create a snug fit and some rails at both the ends for the box lips to rest on. I plan to stitch weld the box to the cross members then seam seal all the joints with Eastwoods brush on seam sealer. I lean towards adding a 1/4" aluminum skid plate and some angle iron to the outside bottom for added protection. The water tank will sit at the same height with similar protection. .



Next up....
I'm waiting on a 30gal water tank and corner stabilizers to arrive so I can wrap up everything on the underside and install the floor.

In the meantime I will put in some plate metal in the walls between some studs for attaching exterior boxes to on the back. Boxes will hold stove/sink on one side and water heater on the other.

 

[dulltip]

Not much progress lately as I've had other priorities and the heat in the garage is unbearable after work.

But I managed to work on the fresh water storage tank some. Frame is painted and aluminum skid plate is cut out and will get glued down, forgot to get pics of that.

Need to weld on some bolts to the crossmembers I added and then install the setup.

Then on to installing the rear crank down stabilizers. I really want to get a floor back in this thing.