I want to build a hard lid for my M416, but I need some ideas regarding the hinges and the seal. Ideally, the end result would be similar to this though the jury is still out on side opening or front / back opening.
But what I really need is some specific ideas, or better yet, pictures, of the hinge and seals. What have others used? Piano hinges? I thought about maybe using the hinges from a 60 series tailgate. Would I need to reinforce the sheetmetal where they attach to the M416?
The other issue is the seal. I'm need to find a source for a rubber seal that will crush and kind of conform to the round lip at the top of the trailer.
On the topic of sealing, the hinge comes into play again. Different pivot points and hinge designs impact the way that the lid will contact the trailer as it closes - particularly on the side where the hinges are. For instance some hinges will cause the lid to come down on the trailer near vertically, while some will cause the lid to "slide" into place. Does anyone have any input as to what design would work well?
If you can't tell, I'm lost. I can handle the easy part - welding up the lid - it's the engineering parts I need help with.
Thanks
Reid
BJ70, FJ60, FZJ80, M416
But what I really need is some specific ideas, or better yet, pictures, of the hinge and seals. What have others used? Piano hinges? I thought about maybe using the hinges from a 60 series tailgate. Would I need to reinforce the sheetmetal where they attach to the M416?
The other issue is the seal. I'm need to find a source for a rubber seal that will crush and kind of conform to the round lip at the top of the trailer.
On the topic of sealing, the hinge comes into play again. Different pivot points and hinge designs impact the way that the lid will contact the trailer as it closes - particularly on the side where the hinges are. For instance some hinges will cause the lid to come down on the trailer near vertically, while some will cause the lid to "slide" into place. Does anyone have any input as to what design would work well?
If you can't tell, I'm lost. I can handle the easy part - welding up the lid - it's the engineering parts I need help with.
Thanks
Reid
BJ70, FJ60, FZJ80, M416