Teardrop Suspension Modification Advice

[Colin Hughes]

I'm new to the trailer scene but we've been bitten by the Teardrop bug. There is one for sale close to me at a reasonable price which is built on a 10 1/2' platform with a queen bed and a very good sized galley that would accommodate my ABB fridge and our other chuck supplies rather nicely. The unit is built with composite panels so there are no seams visible and weights around 750-800 lbs. It was also the owners of the companies personal unit so it has a few extra features. However, it sits low and I'd want to get it up a bit as we have an LR3 for towing and we may find ourselves on backroads. The frame, photos attached, appears to be a triangle shape and I'm wondering what the best route would be to raise the height of the unit. Could I modify the frame, attached something (new axle) or would I be best to build a new frame and transfer the trailer over. Any advice, suggestions or questions to help make an informed decision are welcome and appreciated.

 

[Scott B.]

From the picture, it looks like you could remove (cut off) existing axle, and attach a new one (such as a Dexter) with some spacer blocks.

However, IMO, that frame is on the light side for serious off-road use. From the pictures, it appears the bottom of the TD body is flat and just sits on the frame. If that is the case, you could build a new, stronger frame (sized to fit the body) and attach the body to your new, heavy-duty frame and be good to go.

 

[Colin Hughes]

Thanks Scott. I found a few threads over lunch which showed adding a 2"x3" or 2"x4" steel spacer to raise the height. Short-term, this may be the way to go. Ideally, I'd like to go the stronger frame and upgraded suspension route but I'm still a real newbie about this so more research is required on my end. The price of the teardrop is quite reasonable so even if we buy it and replace the frame/suspension, I think we'd still be well below the cost of a basic Little Guy and way under an AT or Moby which I just don't have the budget for. I'm going to see it this week-end so I'll have a better idea of how things are attached/built after that.

 

[skersfan]

I think Scott nailed it on the frame. I really like the look of the trailer, very smooth, can see it behind a bright red 32 Ford. But the trailer is not designed for the slightest of off road use. The frame really is not existent. I would imagine the box is the main strength for them, and on the highway that is fine, but when the frame starts to twist under the trailer on some rough fire roads, the problems will begin. If you buy it, and I think I would, I would change the frame the first thing I did with it. 2X2 box and a max coupler and that thing looks ready to go and have fun. But if you break the frame, it will most likely do quite a bit of damage to the fiberglass box and where it is bolted to it.

 

[jah310]

Agree with the guys above. Build a new frame - it wouldn't be that difficult and you'd have a great set up with that tear drop. I think using the original frame off high-way will give you more problems than it's worth...

 

[Colin Hughes]

Thanks guys. Will look into a new more robust frame. The unit has Flexride torsion axles so they may be able to be used with the new frame too.