Serenity TearDrop Build

[western traveler-TNT]

Well, I am not going to be posting CAD’s and such. I will be following Tony.Latham’s book closely on this build.

 

[western traveler-TNT]

I started ordering parts and supplies for my build 3 months ago anticipating the delays that were being conveyed to me. It was not unfounded. just recently received my Dexter Tor-flex axle and Challenger doors. I found a local rancher that employs a fabricator/ranch-hand that was willing to build my trailer frame during their calving season this winter. It worked out well though 1/8th inch square tubing was unavailable. We elected to use heavier material. The trailer sat unfinished due to axle and tire delays. I spent the time running to the City to make other purchases and pick up my wood order from the next town over.

 

[western traveler-TNT]

I have a look in mind though I am unsure of my ability to accomplish it. I like the retro look woody’s. We Will see how that all works out.
I ordered automotive paint from a supplier that can put it in rattle cans. My first project while waiting for the axle was to prep and paint out the steel wheels. I was reluctant to paint over powder coat but after sanding on the back of one of the rims I don’t think adhesion is going to be a problem.

 

[western traveler-TNT]

...and the look I am seeking...

 

[western traveler-TNT]

The trailer sat unfinished until the axle finally showed up on the same day the tire order arrived. The trailer was completed the next morning and I brought it home.
We used the plans Tony.Latham provided and the fabricator had practically no questions.

 

[western traveler-TNT]

I sanded, and wiped down to remove the steel residue and wire wheeled where necessary. I then applied two coats of primer and rolled two coats of enamel to finish it off.

 

[western traveler-TNT]

I am pleased with the results.

 

[western traveler-TNT]

I cleared some equipment out of the barn and it has become the work space. I found a set of Job Site sawhorses at a big box store and due to the ability to collapse them when through with the project I decided to go that route instead of building a work table. A couple of 2X4’s and a 3/4” sheet of ply was all that was needed.
I put a tarp over the gravel floor in hopes of catching any stray screws during the build and to be able to vacuum the work space.
I used underlayment for the template. I’ve been a bit concerned about not being able to control the temperature of the environment for glass work but I sealed the template edge with Raka (not pictured) and of course it started snowing a short time later.
It hardened overnight but I will not be attempting that when the glass work begins.
I just had to see what the profile would look like as soon as the template was cut.

 

[Tony Latham]

I have yet to know of a builder that doesn't do what you did... mount a wall or template to the trailer to see how she's going to look.



Tony

 

[twisted lines]

Please put the hub cap back on it looked so good

 

[Capebuild]

That last picture you posted is really great. The landscape in your backyard Is so beautiful. I travelled to Missoula and surrounding areas a couple of years ago. Beautiful country. Enjoy building your trailer.

 

[western traveler-TNT]

[/album]Need clearance measurements for mounting and door clearance. A bit of trimming to do..

 

[Bezoar]

I love the shape of that fender - will go well with the painted wheels and hubcaps!

 

[western traveler-TNT]

[album]

A very worthwhile guide right there...

 

[western traveler-TNT]

I have arrived at the worrisome place of cutting two $90 3/4” ACX sheets at one time. Yep, not a typo.

 

[Tony Latham]

I have arrived at the worrisome place of cutting two $90 3/4” CDX sheets at one time. Yep, not a typo.

Ouch... I'm building a roof right now to protect our teardrop, so I'm bleeding too...

Are you going to cut it a bit proud and then use a trim bit?

Tony

 

[western traveler-TNT]

All and all it went well. I used three passes with the router. The last two without the pattern. I don’t know what happened but I had one small whoop-de-do on a curve. Operator error I guess. It will be an easy fix with some Phenolic Micro-balloons and epoxy and a bit of touch up with a sanding block...

 

[western traveler-TNT]

I have arrived at the worrisome place of cutting two $90 3/4” CDX sheets at one time. Yep, not a typo.

Ouch... I'm building a roof right now to protect our teardrop, so I'm bleeding too...

Are you going to cut it a bit proud and then use a trim bit?

Tony

It Tony does it that way I am likely to follow. Not trying to reinvent the wheel here. Thanks for the tip to level out the jigsaw with a piece of scrap as well...

Oh and happy to share the pain..

 

[Capebuild]

It's true, plywood prices have really gotten out of control. Even here on the east coast. A piece of 5/8 CDX a year ago was around $35. A couple of weeks ago at HD it was $60. I couldn't believe it.
A month or so ago I traveled to the Boson area to a distributor that carries birch ply, okoume and all sorts of exotic wood to take a look at the products they carried. I wish I had bought the plywood then.
The birch has gone up since and the rep said the okoume was about to go up so I decided to make my purchase. That really burned my wallet up. I suppose prices will come down at some point, hopefully...
but I suppose one has to be fully committed to building now with the prices the way they are. My 2 cents.

 

[MickinOz]

That's nice looing ply you have there traveler. What species is the timber it is made from, do you know?