My M101A2 build

[ummmickey]

I bought an M101A2 military trailer a few months ago. The canvas top was not what I wanted, so I removed it and sold it. I found a utility bed topper and it fit almost perfect (had to remove the tailgate).

 

[ummmickey]

The surge brake system was weak -- it would lock when the pulling vehicle was stopping hard. I replaced the shock under the pintle (that job sucked btw).

 

[ummmickey]

More to show.

 

[ummmickey]

Im quite pleased with the outcome, I wanted to contribute because I have trolled this forum and stolen some ideas.
Also, I know it isnt a Toyota in the images- But I can pull it with my 2ng gen 4runner....so I get partial credit.

 

[ummmickey]

More pics

Project so far.

plenty of work to do - but I can camp in it now.

 

[scrapdaddy]

WOW! That topper is perfect. Could you post some more information on it. I'm wanting to make something for one of my 101s and yours would be great for what I want to do.

Thanks for posting.

 

[ummmickey]

WOW! That topper is perfect. Could you post some more information on it. I'm wanting to make something for one of my 101s and yours would be great for what I want to do.

Thanks for posting.

I found it on Craigslist for 200 bucks. I just took measurements and found it's almost the same as a full size truck bed. This particular one is made by A.R.E. and retails for about $2700 back in 2007 when it was new. It was being used by an appliance repairman and he totaled the truck with an interior cab fire.

 

[Solace in Solitude]

Looks like it was always part of the trailer - great job!!

 

[scrapdaddy]

Sure does look like they were made for each other, but sure is pricey. You got very lucky finding one for that price. I'll be keeping an eye out.

 

[BMThiker]

FYI, we have a Trailer section on this forum...Trailer Tech

 

[ummmickey]

please move if needed

my error if "expedition builds" doesn't mean what i thought it meant.

 

[scrapdaddy]

Personally, I don't care where you have the build, I just want to see what you come up with for the inside.

 

[ummmickey]

I thought about building a metal rack system...the width of the trailer but in 2 foot sections...about 16 inches off the floor for storage underneath and removable. Simple angle on the sides ...1 inch (maybe even 3/4) square tubing with expanded metal covering. I could double the storage space plus have a place to sleep if the tent isn't appropriate for really bad weather. Hopefully they would be light enough to just slide out if I needed more height. I have a 10 pound propane bottle.... Hot water on demand...and some led 12 volt lights currently. I plan on a pretty standard battery box mounted on the tongue with the stinger leg from the 7 wire trailer connector to charge it.
The tent opens to the rear of the trailer so I have shade for food prep.
It will be a few weeks...but I'll update as I go.

 

[scrapdaddy]

I built a box in one of my 101s for my son and used old garage door track and rollers for slides. Works darn good for cheap! Look forward to your updates.

 

[PAToyota]

please move if needed

my error if "expedition builds" doesn't mean what i thought it meant.

I’d keep it here if you’re planning to outfit the interior for expeditions - sleeping, cooking, storage, etc. The trailer section seems to be more utility and vehicle trailers. As scrapdaddy says, I’m interested to see what you put together.

 

[poovs]

@ummmickey how did you paint that thing? Looks like you sprayed it in your driveway? Looks amazing. Any updates?

 

[ummmickey]

I finished the inside with a simple platform to sleep and storage.... Then put a RTT on it. Used it all over California and now brought it to Florida.
I did rattle can it in the driveway and used cheap Lowe's camo paint flat... No issues and still use it.

 

[kirvesmies]

very well done sir. like has been said, that contractor top looks like it was designed for the trailer. care to let us see inside? n also, the main roof rack, did you build it? seems quite robust