TJs M101 CDN2 trailer build

[mamefreak]

Trailer - M101 CDN2 Trailer

Purpose - To haul it behind my Jeep Wrangler for camping, general use, and auto shows.

Goal: To match the style of my Jeep as close as possible.


My adventure started as most do on CraigsList.
I purchased a " Garden Trailer" for $50 which turned out to be a Bantam T-3 Military use trailer. ( Not a T-3C - Civilian trailer)

I brokered a deal to trade it to a fine gentleman from Montreal Canada for a M101 CDN2 trailer.
Below is my build and progress.

 

[mamefreak]

Note: all removed parts are going to a friend to help him restore his trailer.

New hubs to convert the bolt pattern to 5x4.5 to match Jeep.
http://i.imgur.com/AQ4SLzv.jpg

Test fit hubs in new tires - 33x12.5R15 Goodyear MTR Kevlar

Tires replaced - this wheel is missing black center cap

 

[mamefreak]

Rear view with new tires

Pintle lock for security

Black out TJ style tail lights - match ones on Jeep

Blackout license plate cover - match Jeep cover

 

[mamefreak]

Now my jeep is completely blacked out and the trailer needs to match; on issue. The triangle rear reflectors.

So I unbolted one and set about finding a way to black them out.
Im not a fan of NightShade over red plastic as they still look red and bad.

So I disassembled one of the original units and found that the plastic triangles could have their back removed.
Mine are not in great shape

So I figured maybe I could mold these reflectors and recast them in clear plastic and then tint them
( I have absolutely no experience in doing any of this )

At this same time I managed to find some of these reflectors for sale in the UK and ordered them
They turned out to be far better than the originals as they have a plastic surrounding frame and all the smaller triangles are free to be removed when the support section is removed.
This is far preferable to the original hard rubber in metal frame.
Total cost $20 for the pair including shipping.

So I purchased the following materials and am currently in the process of molding new reflectors.

My first attempt at molding

looks like it should work well. Just have to wait 24 hours for full cure and I can start the casting.

 

[Boatmonkey]

Looks great! I have the exact same trailer that I just bought. Any more info on the hubs? Where did you purchase them? I'm looking for 5X5 for my JK but I've heard that there are fitment issues with some of the aftermarkets on the original axle. Also, what's the backspacing of your rims on the trailer? Thanks.

 

[mamefreak]

Thanks!!

They are Dexter hubs I got off https://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hubs-and-Drums/Dexter/84546UC3.html

- you should be able to match the stats from mine with the different bolt pattern.

As for the back spacing I'm not really sure
The rims are Cragar soft 8 397 and they fit with back space to spare.

 

[harv3589]

Nice build! They are fun to do, I really enjoyed my M101 CDN2 build...well still enjoying

 

[Boatmonkey]

Thanks for the quick response. Appreciate your help. Now off to buy some new hubs...

 

[xnavy8or]

Your reflectors

I realize this thread is a year old, but do you happen to remember from whom you bought the reflectors, I would love to get a pair

 

[ratled]

I realize this thread is a year old, but do you happen to remember from whom you bought the reflectors, I would love to get a pair

May not quite the same but close and CHEAP!!! https://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/2Pcs-Rear-Light-Car-Truck-Trailer-Fire-Triangle-Reflector-Safty-Warning-Board/1759910_32484073766.html#!

Or these

http://www.foxtaillights.com/product/pmc-1274r/