trailer lid/tailgate

[Mace]

Lid Vs Tailgate for a custom trailer/chowbox.

I am building a 4x8' trailer box. The front portion of it will house a 16 gal water cell and all the necessary plumbing/wiring for a 12 V pump.

I am at a quandry wether to make a drop down tailgate for it or to just give it a lift lid.

The problem with a tailgate is getting to the stuff in the front of the "bed". The problem with the lift lid is that I am planing on being able to mout stuff to the lid. I do nto want to haul off a tent, boat or motorcycle whenever I want to open it..

I do not want to do both because of sealing issues. I really want this trailer to seal up nicely. Fine dust is a major issue around here and it will get into EVERYTHING if you are not carefull.. But if you happen to have ideas on doing both and making them seal well I would be interested..

Ideas?

 

[photogod]

I have both on mine and sealing it is really no issue with the proper foam stuff. I got some weather seal from HD and it works great. I really enjoy the ability to load stuff and not have to lift it over the sides of the trailer and my camp kit slides right in. JMHO

 

[Mace]

pics?

 

[photogod]

Trailer and camp Kit. I made the hinges to fit nice and tight. The weather seal is 3/4" wide and 1/4" high and compresses just fine to keep stuff out.

 

[Mace]

Why a curved lid?

 

[gavman]

Why a curved lid?

You should say "why the awesome looking curved lid"

 

[photogod]

I liked the retro look. It has that caravan kinda look. I have plenty of room on the roof rack and in the drawer system so I didn't think I needed storage on top of the trailer. I put folding chairs and slat topped kitchen tables in the gap of the arch on the inside and still have half the interior for other things not wanting to get wet or dusty. I'm taking the unit on a real shake down trip this summer. A solo around Lake Superior to do a photo documentary on the lighthouses of the greatest lake. Two weeks all by myself with my cameras. No people, no students, no interruptions, no distractions. Can't F'ing wait!

PS, thanks Gavman

 

[Ebag333]

Why a curved lid?

Aerodynamics.

 

[missipboy]

i've got both and it seals great. pics are in my sig line. no pics of any weatherstripping though.