Trailgater Build

[GTKrockeTT]

Wish I had the funds for an AT trailer...really love that trailing arm suspension. However, I also wanted utility to be able to haul an ATV or dirt bike(s). So, after much research, I turned to Vic at Bear Trailersports in Chatsworth, CA. The trailer specs as built by Vic are as follows:

Base Trailer
Electric Brakes
Spare Tire Mount
Tail Gate
Lock N Roll Coupler
Powder coat
Spring under Axle ~3000lbs
6x5.5 Hubs

I have a RTT, and want to secure/water resist the contents inside, so a lid is part of the build...a major part. Along with that, I need to setup a battery box, outlets, inverter, solar charger, and all the fun electrical stuff.

Here it is at Pismo Beach:

 

[GTKrockeTT]

I've been brainstorming lately with design concepts on a lid for my trailer. To satisfy 2 key requirements, ease of removal, and hinged lid for access, I came up with this. What do you guys think? I keep searching for issues with the concept, but because of the tail gate, I have limited options for having a strut/shock attachment to assist with the lid opening.

The idea is to have a base frame with 4 legs. The legs will naturally be inserted into 4 respective tubes attached to the trailer itself. This will allow for the entire lid unit to be positioned upward, downward, or removed entirely without tools. Naturally, 2 people will make things easier. A hinged and covered lid will be attached to the base frame with struts. This will allow access to the trailer inside without moving the entire lid upwards. I haven't drawn in the rails to support the RTT, but that isn't hard to picture.

*Pics not to scale

 

[ex m38a1er]

As you've mentioned you need to be two people (and very well synchronised)
in order to lift it in the same time equally.Wouldn't it be easier to use the scissors with spring lifting thing(westfalia?) system that many pop up campers use.
And then make a smaller acces panel in the front side of the lid so you can get things with out having to open the tailgate or the big lid(at least that's what i will do).My 2c

 

[GTKrockeTT]

As you've mentioned you need to be two people (and very well synchronised)
in order to lift it in the same time equally.Wouldn't it be easier to use the scissors with spring lifting thing(westfalia?) system that many pop up campers use.
And then make a smaller acces panel in the front side of the lid so you can get things with out having to open the tailgate or the big lid(at least that's what i will do).My 2c

to lift, probably, but what about ease of removal? do you happen to have a picture or link so i can take a look at.

the problem with the access panel is that my RTT is a large one, and will nearly span the entire trailer. unless the mounting rack/rail is very high up, it's going to be a royal PITA to reach and remove items...if at all possible.

 

[XJBANKER]

to lift, probably, but what about ease of removal? Do you happen to have a picture or link so i can take a look at.

The problem with the access panel is that my rtt is a large one, and will nearly span the entire trailer. Unless the mounting rack/rail is very high up, it's going to be a royal pita to reach and remove items...if at all possible.

agreed!!!

 

[sseaman]

It might be easier to have the posts taller and sticking up, and have the lid slid up and down on them instead of the poles sliding in tubs at the bottom. Just a thought.


You also need some type of clamp when it is down to hold it tight enough to seal on the weatherstripping

 

[Old_FJ_Guy]

Thanks for posting the pictures of this trailer. I have been really impressed with this same trailer and have been trying to figure out a way to get one back to Indiana. The shipping starts approaching the cost of the trailer.

I would be curious to know what your impressions of the trailer are and how it has held up for you.

Good luck with your mods and keep us posted.

Thanks,

Mike

 

[GTKrockeTT]

It might be easier to have the posts taller and sticking up, and have the lid slid up and down on them instead of the poles sliding in tubs at the bottom. Just a thought.


You also need some type of clamp when it is down to hold it tight enough to seal on the weatherstripping

wouldn't that inhibit the hinged portion of the lid from opening and closing?

 

[sseaman]

Hummm, maybe the poles would need to be on the outside of the box

 

[GTKrockeTT]

Hummm, maybe the poles would need to be on the outside of the box

yes, the concept above would dictate that everything, including legs and tubes be outside the trailer bed. the problem with the legs being more elevated than what's illustrated in the drawing is that it would prevent the hinged portion of the lid from being able to open, unless the base frame and 2 legs where the hinge side is, is jettisoned further out.