Barefoot Expedition Trailer Build (1 Viewer)

[barefoot]

Here is my attempt to document my expedition trailer build. At this point I feel that the trailer is most of the way through fabrication, but nowhere near finished.

First, I must give credit where it is due... I found this thread
https://forum.ih8mud.com/trailer-te...expedition-style-trailer-build-up-thread.html
while searching for information on RTT's and It should be very obvious that I am impressed with and borrow heavily from REZARF's design.

Frame
Most of the frame is 1/8" wall 2"x4" tubing.
The tonge is effectively an extendable receiver which will allow for the use of a Max AT hitch.

 

[barefoot]

more frame

 

[barefoot]

Suspension
I am using the springs/hangers from an early 90s 2wd toyota pickup.

Axle
The axle is from ABC...
-3500 lb w/ electric brakes
-2" spacers used to allow the use of matching wheels

note the bags of concrete for balast to double check spring hanger locations

 

[barefoot]

Body
REZARF's method of body construction (thin tubes and sheetmetal) works for me, so I "borrowed" it.
I laid out my plan on graph paper first and then re-did it at 1:1 scale on poster board. Then it was a matter of cutting the tubes and piecing it together.
the sides are 16ga that I had bent at a local steel vendor. The floor is 14ga.

 

[barefoot]

more body...

 

[barefoot]

more body II....

 

[cruiserjunkie]

that is some fine looking work cannt wait to see this really come together

 

[barefoot]

More body III...
with lid(incomplete), back panels, & tail gate "frame"

 

[barefoot]

more body IV...
tailgate is skinned, mockup install of tail lights.

pic w/ jeep for size reference.

 

[barefoot]

random parts notes...
The hinges are welded to the tailgate and lid, then bolted to the tub.
The tailights are standard m-series LEDs that work on 12v & 24v systems.
The Gas springs are 250lb units from mcmaster.
The entire center section of the trailer will slide out like a drawer. I found a used bedslide on CL and shortened it to fit. It will eventually be decked with marine ply.

This is my first attempt at fabrication so this has been a slow process, but I am starting to see light at the end of the tunnel.
I welcome any questions/ comments you may have.

 

[barefoot]

Side shot of tail lights

 

[MtnAddict]

Very nice work.

 

[TRAIL TAILOR]

Looking very good.

 

[speedmesh]

what is that tool called that u are using to get those perfect 90 degre angles?

 

[cruiserpilot]

I have an idea, which I thought of with REZARF's design and yours. Why not hinge the rear tailgate at the top? With a good set of gas shocks, it would actually be a great way to A. not break taillights re: rezarf. But would also be a cover and a source for lights supposing one was to put a camp stove and other stuff that otherwise does see use in the dark?
But I am truly impressed, for a first timer at fab you are very skilled. Look forward to you build.
Great taillights, post where you got those for sure.
Also really innovative and great frame design.
J

 

[IBCRUSN]

Nice work!! Quick question since it's still early in your build...what did you use as a brake to bend the side panels?

They are corner or framing vices. Not sure of the brand but this gives you a good idea. Awesome tools. If you're patient and have a welder you can fab your own using angle iron and various sizes of Vice Grips. I don't recommend the ones Harbor Freight offers, didn't have any luck with them being square at all.

Strong Hand© Tools

I'll find the article that showed how to build the corner vises and add it.

 

[skersfan]

Great ideas, great fab skills, very impressed.

 

[climber8483]

IBCRUSN,

Post #4

Body
the sides are 16ga that I had bent at a local steel vendor. The floor is 14ga.

those are some nice side panels.

 

[climber8483]

Just curious, how much do you think you have invested into it?

 

[IBCRUSN]

Dam...devil is in the details.

I haven't had much luck finding the link I had on how to fab the corner jigs.