Trailer Tech Questions

[SAR_Squid79]

I'm building an adventure trailer this winter. Hopefully it will be finished before my move back to San Diego.

I'm getting parts together now. The trailer is going to be based off of the Chaser. Roughly the same size, and features. Adventure Trailers uses independent suspension on the Chaser, and I'm going with a straight axle. I'm ordering the axle with 6 x 5.5 hubs so that the trailer's tires and spare will be interchangable with my Tacoma.

ANYWAY - I need to know what width to order the axle... If I'm not mistaken, the Chaser is based on the M101. Could someone tell me if that is correct and the axle width for an M101?




...I started this thread because I'm sure I'll have more questions as the build progresses.

 

[Willman]

I just ordered and installed a new axle under my Bantam.....Same size box but with a tailgate & round fenders.

My axle came out like this:

-38" box
-4" tire spacing (2" on both sides)
-10 1/2" for the spacing on the wheels/tires

52 1/2" axle hub face to hub face

Hope this helps!

 

[Grim Reaper]

I'm building an adventure trailer this winter. Hopefully it will be finished before my move back to San Diego.

I'm getting parts together now. The trailer is going to be based off of the Chaser. Roughly the same size, and features. Adventure Trailers uses independent suspension on the Chaser, and I'm going with a straight axle. I'm ordering the axle with 6 x 5.5 hubs so that the trailer's tires and spare will be interchangable with my Tacoma.

ANYWAY - I need to know what width to order the axle... If I'm not mistaken, the Chaser is based on the M101. Could someone tell me if that is correct and the axle width for an M101?

...I started this thread because I'm sure I'll have more questions as the build progresses.

IFS mini thought at least 95 is 58 face to face. outside of frame rail to frame rail is 42. That's with something like 4.5 inch backspace rims. That would be my goal is to match the track of truck.


The big killer on trailers is over stiff suspension. You could make a three link (two control arms and a track bar) and run bags like the AT trailers. It would be a lot easier then fabricating the IFS set up they have. Not quite as good as it but better then "trailer springs" and will allow you to tailor the ride to the weigh.

 

[gearnut]

Exp. trailers

My trailer is basically custom built for these type applications. It's definately true that the O.E. springs on the military trailers are way too stiff. I bought some used springs fropm the rear of a jeep cherokee and added add-a-leaves (rancho $60) and it rides like a dream w/ shocks. I always carry 2 propane lanterns and only every 3 years or so do I replace mantles. i ALSO KNOW OF A GREAT MILI TRAILER BUILT LIKE AN ADVENTURE CHASER W/ TENT FOR SALE-- BEST DEAL ON TWO WHEELS!!!!!!!!!!

 

[TheMike]

...I always carry 2 propane lanterns and only every 3 years or so do I replace mantles...

That would explain the add-a-leafs. Those must be serious lanterns! (I just couldn't let that go)

I look forward to seeing what you come up with Jamie. You've done good with the truck so I expect good things! Any measurments you need from the Chaser, let me know.

HAPPY HOLLIDAYS EVERYONE!!

 

[SAR_Squid79]

Thanks everybody!

This trailer is pretty much going to be custom from the ground, up - as opposed to modifying an existing trailer. I printed off the Chaser's schematics from AT's website. The main cargo box of the trailer will be exactly the same, minus the part at the top that flares out. It will have a hard clam-shell top like the chaser, and a tailgate. I'm going to put flush-mounted LED tail-lights, a "bumper" with integrated receiver on the rear. As I've already said - I'm going to match the tires and wheels so they'll be interchangable with the Tacoma. I'm planning on 4 Jerry Can mounts identical to the ones on my truck. The trailer will be wired for a fridge, and 12V aux power outlets. Since I'm planning on doing dual batteries in my truck this Winter, I think I'm just going to route the power from the truck instead of building a battery box on the trailer. I'm planning on Line-X'ing the interior of the trailer. So far I'm planning on 2 x 1000 lb leaf springs, with a 1" shackle, on a solid axle. I'm not even going to mess with trying to design an independent suspension.

I'll definitely keep you guys posted, and like I said earlier, I'm sure I'll need more answers, recommendations, and/or measurements.

 

[nruller]

Check out R an P Carriages on ebay for good deals on LEDs. They are in your area. They have a good amount of trailer parts.

 

[UK4X4]

Start with making the frame, position the wheels in place, tyres against the frame rails measure the distance, from wheel center to wheel center.

add 4" and your done.

That will give you hub spacing and 2" either side for clearance

Axles are normally ordered if they are funny sizes, and you'l need the frame center measurement for the mounts, around $150 delivered from ABC

Springs longer flexier, more thin leaves give more flex than 1 big one, plus you can remove one to get more movement.

depending on the height of your truck, the width of the frame and the arch of your springs...you may need higher or lower spring mounts, longer shackles.

Don't order till you have the basic parts....otherwise you'll be buying a second set, unless of course your a perfect planner....

me i do loads of dwgs.......then with the pile of steel in front of me...things change during the build........

even to the point of frame width....ooohhh thats looks better I'll just leave it that width instead.

i only cut when required and do not cut a whole pile of parts and then join them together

 

[SAR_Squid79]

Expedition Trailer in OJ

In the new issue of OJ, there's a ************ trailer picture on Pg. 74. This trailer is almost EXACTLY what I'm planning on building...

...Anyone know where to find more pics of it online?

 

[Willman]

In the new issue of OJ, there's a ************ trailer picture on Pg. 74. This trailer is almost EXACTLY what I'm planning on building...

...Anyone know where to find more pics of it online?

Going to have to send a PM to Redline......James "Redline" is who did the writeup....

 

[SAR_Squid79]

Chaser Tailgate

Can someone tell me the size of the Tailgate on the Chaser?

I have planned my tailgate at 36" x 18". That will give me plenty of room, and I'm probably sticking with that, but the Chaser Tailgate looks smaller than that, so I was just curious.

On a side note - I have decided to go with a 60" axle. The Tacoma axle being 61", I've decided to go with a 60" axle for the trailer to try to make the truck and trailer track as close as possible.

 

[UK4X4]

I've no idea on the size....but really if your building your own....just decide on what you want and like the look of.

half the fun of a self build is building something to your own design and not being limited to whats available in the market place.

Ie will what you intend to carry fit through the door..?

you might like this trailer design too being a military guy......

The build design being simple square frame and panels is pretty easy to do, rather than trying to weld 18 gauge sheet steel.

Website here
http://www.milspecoffroad.com/

 

[SAR_Squid79]

I'm basing my design ideas off of the Chaser by AT, and this trailer that I saw in the Winter issue of Overland Journal.

​

My trailer should mostly resemble the trailer pictured above. Construction should start in a week or so - currently amassing parts. So far I have:

• Steel
• Tires
• Wheels
• Lock 'N Roll Hitch & coupler
• De-Sta-Co Lid latches
• Gas springs & hardware
• Hinges for lid & tailgate

Next payday:
Axle, springs, locking T-handles (for tailgate), LED lighting, etc, etc, etc....

 

[SAR_Squid79]

Chaser Tailgate is 31" 5/8" across and 15" 1/2" tall.

Thanks Taco Chaser!

 

[SAR_Squid79]

Trailer Spare

Where have you guys mounted your Trailer spare tires?