What size angle iron

[greg55]

I've been lurking here for a while and getting lots of ideas.I'am still trying to decide what to do.I like the idea of a bolt together frame using angle iron.I can get 10' lengths of 1.5"x1.5"x3/16" and 2"x2"x3/16".The 2" is 6 lbs heavier per 10'.I've seen people here use 2"x2"x1/8".Would the 1.5" x3/16" be strong enough? I would like to keep the weight to a min.as I'am pulling with a PT cruiser.

[Miriam C.]

Hi there,
There is a trailer tutorial in the (Stickies) under important information.
It seems pretty complete.

Find a buddy selling iron or steel, get a discount.

Hope it helps!
Miriam

[mikeschn]

Check out dguff's album. He's built a nice trailer. You could do the same. He's also included a parts list in this thread...

http://tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?t=7717



Mike...

[angib]

1-1/2"x1-1/2"x3/16" angle is 20% less strong than 2"x2"x1/8" angle and 40% less stiff.

For most of the frame, like under the floor, I can't see that being a problem - assuming you're not intending to use this material for the tongue. The only difficulties would be the two cross-members that the tongue bolts to, but if you use an A-frame tongue or a Y-braced tongue like in the photo above, that's also no problem.

Andrew

[greg55]

Thanks for the replys.Thats a nice frame Andrew.Thats what I had in mind.I figure I would only save 37 lbs using 1.5" angle instead of 2".Being a bit more stronger would be worth the extra weight. I would use 2"x3" tubing for the tounge.

[mikeschn]

I would use 2x2x1/8 for the main chassis and 2x2x3/16 for the tongue... Maybe I'm overbuilding, but that's where I feel comfortable...

BTW, I have a set of chassis plans from a registered engineer, and he used 2x2x3/16 all over... the difference of course, is those plans are a utility trailer, which doesn't have the benefit of a really strong box sitting on top of it!

Mike...

[hammer & tongs]

TSC uses 2"X2"X1/8"....works good for me

[BigDaddyCool]

thats what i'm using for my tear 2''x2''x1/8'' angle and 2''x2''x1/8'' tube for the tong...