Welp, new here, but not to forums. Hang out more on the FJ cruiser forums, but now that I am close to starting my build I wanted to post here!
You guys are a great resource of information, and so please provide help as you see fit! I like when other people can tell me about their mistakes, so I dont have to make them myself..
Here is the overview so far..
Initial idea, quick and dirty!
The idea is to have a removable box which locks in using latches of sorts so I can haul the bikes, or when im not riding haul camping gear in the back. There will be a fold out extendable section for the bikes when I am towing them that way I can keep the trailer short.
The wedges you see will be some sort of brackets, but not sure what kind yet.
Here was what I got done today..
I will be using a trailer kit from ABCTrailers, which was recommended by some Expedition Portal members.
$180 plus shipping for everything I need besides the metal to get the thing rolling. (cheaper than a harbor freight trailer!)
Im estimating around 400-500 for metal right now..I have been using Metals Depot Online for ideas of price.
To get rough prices. I will get quotes from local industrial suppliers in the California Bay Area when I get close to the build portion. Im thinking I can score some great deals at an industrial metal supply I know of near the Oakland Airport.
Decided on Channel Iron instead of square tube for the frame as
1. It offers similar strength and is even utilized on many MIL trailers guys love to tow.
2. Dont have to worry about trapped moisture and rust
3. Slightly lighter than square tube, and should be easier to fab
4. Because I like to be different and I feel that this approach will get the results im looking for!
I am planning on making the tailgate load capable for towing two dirt bikes on the ramp along with one more on the straight through hitch/tongue combo.
I have NOT played with weight and balance and axle position too much..I figure I have to fab the frame up first and go from there.
Tips are welcome....!
You guys are a great resource of information, and so please provide help as you see fit! I like when other people can tell me about their mistakes, so I dont have to make them myself..
Here is the overview so far..
Initial idea, quick and dirty!
The idea is to have a removable box which locks in using latches of sorts so I can haul the bikes, or when im not riding haul camping gear in the back. There will be a fold out extendable section for the bikes when I am towing them that way I can keep the trailer short.
The wedges you see will be some sort of brackets, but not sure what kind yet.
Here was what I got done today..
I will be using a trailer kit from ABCTrailers, which was recommended by some Expedition Portal members.
$180 plus shipping for everything I need besides the metal to get the thing rolling. (cheaper than a harbor freight trailer!)
Im estimating around 400-500 for metal right now..I have been using Metals Depot Online for ideas of price.
To get rough prices. I will get quotes from local industrial suppliers in the California Bay Area when I get close to the build portion. Im thinking I can score some great deals at an industrial metal supply I know of near the Oakland Airport.
Decided on Channel Iron instead of square tube for the frame as
1. It offers similar strength and is even utilized on many MIL trailers guys love to tow.
2. Dont have to worry about trapped moisture and rust
3. Slightly lighter than square tube, and should be easier to fab
4. Because I like to be different and I feel that this approach will get the results im looking for!
I am planning on making the tailgate load capable for towing two dirt bikes on the ramp along with one more on the straight through hitch/tongue combo.
I have NOT played with weight and balance and axle position too much..I figure I have to fab the frame up first and go from there.
Tips are welcome....!