I built my teardrop on a Snowbear 8000 trailer chassis. This chassis offers many benefits, such as a removable tongue; heavy, tube-steel construction; and better weight capacities. I built my teardrop at a width of 54", which cost a lot more. This unique width allows me to have a real full-size (double) mattress inside the teardrop. It also allowed me to fasten the walls to the outside of the frame, concealing it entirely. After I cut off the "box-style" turn signals and gate-sleaves, I had little tabs left which I set the sidewalls on, providing much greater strength. I built my trailer 10 feet long, though the frame is just under 8 in length. To do this, I simply centered the sidewalls front to back and framed in the extra floor with heavier-than-normal stock.
Snowbear trailers are readily available at many Home Depot stores and Costcos and cost around $750. They are often for sale in the classifieds. I have been very happy with my Snowbear chassis and would recommend it for anyone with reservations about a lighter-weight chassis.
Outside Frame Dimensions 54" x 92"
Fender to Fender Width 70"
Trailer GVWR* 2090 Lbs
Trailer Payload ** 1592 Lbs
Tire Description 5.3 x 12 Class C 80 PSI
Tire Bolt Pattern 5 Bolt Pattern
Pre-Wired
Built in Load Bearing Tailgate
Tiltable
Adjustable Axle
Heavy Duty Light Covers
Extendable Tongue
Automotive Powder Coat Paint
http://www.snowbear.com