Trailer tub size - need bigger than M416 but smaller than 3/4 M101 - Options? (1 Viewer)

[re_guderian]

So I have a dilemma... I have owned an M416, and now have a M762 (flatbed M416) with an MDO box on it. However, I find the storage capacity kind of limited for all the hassle of hooking up a trailer. My typical usage is family camping, with 4-6 adult-sized humans (4 teenage kids) and a dog in the Cruiser, and camping gear in the trailer. Other (more) common application is me and another adult or two and ~10 Scouts going camping with all our gear, so again, the cruiser is full of people with little to no room for gear. In both scenarios, the third seat is in use. I'd also like to be able to use it for yard/general hauling use, for which the M416 w/o a tailgate is at a significant disadvantage.

What I'd REALLY like, is something configured like the 3/4 ton M101A3, or the newer aluminum M1101, but on a slightly smaller scale. I don't need 8' of length, and 1200 pounds empty, and 37" tires. So, what options are there? Here's a few of my thoughts, chime in with others. Extreme off-road isn't a requirement, but I drag the family and the Scouts on plenty of rough roads and "off-the-beaten-path" places, just not "Rubicon-required".

1. Build (have built, since I don't weld) a custom tub for the M762 that's at least 4'-5' wide and ~ 7' long. This would require a custom axle to widen the distance between the hubs.
2. Sell the M762, and start over with something like a Willys or Sears David Bradley. Not as tough, but have a 4'x6' (inside bed) with stake sides that you could pile up high with gear. Downside, these are all 60+ years old now.
3. Go custom ground-up build?

Any one else struggle with the gap between the 1/4 tons and the behemoths? I don't need RTT, or built-in kitchen, just a rugged, off-road capable cargo hauler.

 

[cruiserpilot]

http://www.expresscustom.ca/expresstrailer.com/viewcategory.php?groupid=59
These guys are on Vancouver Island, I know that a few people from Washington State have come up and bought their
trailers. Look over the site carefully, basically they make every size and weird option or need you could come up with.
And the prices aren't too ridiculous, since alum is never cheap. Even if you don't get one from them, it should give you
an idea of what you need.

 

[re_guderian]

Thanks for the link.

I also found this when surfing around. Sigh, I may just have to learn to weld.

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/79542-Patchwork-Hauler

 

[titanpat57]

There was a build over on ExPo where a guy cut a M101A2 and moved the sides in. Pretty close to same track as the truck

Why not get a M116A2 and build sides/front/back on it, so you basically end up with a 4' x 8' trailer. Remember, all those models are only 45-46" between the wheel wells.

Time to learn to weld...

 

[Mark Harley]

Agree with Pat. The M116A2 is the best rolling frame to start with.
Sell your trailer and fund the new one. Steelsoldiers.com had a classified section
check there for local trailers.

 

[Mark Harley]

Found this parts trailer in Arizona narrow the tub, a custom off road hitch paint and ready to go.
http://tucson.craigslist.org/cto/4456531002.html