Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

Hi Gang,

Really getting ready to build soon. I'm building simple and looking to do this on a budget. Would be interested in any surplus, unused, "been laying in the garage gathering dust" parts that anyone might have, and are willing to part with (pardon the pun)! They don't have to be pretty or authentic. More than willing to pay bottom dollar via PayPal or in-person, for anything that you do not want hauled away for free! (Grin)

At this point, I need just about everything. In particular I am thinking about needing windows, a vent, electrical stuff, hardware/hinges/trim, interior lights and stuff. I am planning on buying a Tractor Supply 4x8 trailer, but need all the extra trailer stuff, too. Probably need stuff I haven't even thought of yet. Before I start shopping Ebay, Walmart, Home Depot and thrift stores, I thought I would check with you all first.

Also, if anyone knows any good, reasonable RV Salvage or surplus suppliers within 100 miles of Asheville, NC, please let me know!

Thanks, Al Lyons in Asheville

Depending on what size (width) you are building, the door hinge on most old aluminum camper shells (or at least the 4 I have) look the same as the pix of teardrop hatch hinges I have seen on here. The side windows will also work for door windows. Lot of times you can find folks that will give you old camper shells just to get rid of them. Other times you may have to pay 20 to 30 bucks for one in fairly good condition. Lot of aluminum trim on them too.

Just my $0.02

Good luck with your build! Keep us posted.

depatty wrote:The door hinge on most old aluminum camper shells (or at least the 4 I have) look the same as the pix of teardrop hatch hinges. The side windows will also work for door windows. Lot of times you can find folks that will give you old camper shells just to get rid of them. Lot of aluminum trim on them too.

I hadn't thought of that. Darn it, I gave an old, ugly aluminum truck camper top away about 5 years ago. My Wife hated it, because it was so ugly. She didn't like it on the truck. But you're right, you see them all the time on CraigsList other places, except now I won't, because now I will be actually looking for one.

I have found in my anecdotal research that my chances of finding something on CraigsList, Ebay, or the local classifieds at a good price are inversely proportional to how frantically I am searching for the item!

Al in Asheville

I bought my windows form a place that makes pickup camper shells.

I've been looking to scrounge up some parts for a utilitear that I'd like to build and use for my DJ Biz. I plan on using windows from a salvage yard bound donor. Most bathroom windows on older campers look like they would make great TD door windows. Just food for thought. You can also get metal fenders from TSC for as little as $10 each.

kurtibm wrote:http://asheville.craigslist.org/zip/454888966.html

Hi!

Yes, I saw this ad and contacted him. He has two windows sized 14" by 58". I might be able to use one on one side, if I don't put doors on both sides. Otherwise, I think they are too big for what I am building...Any thoughts?

Thanks, Al Lyons

Alfred wrote:Hi!

Yes, I saw this ad and contacted him. He has two windows sized 14" by 58". I might be able to use one on one side, if I don't put doors on both sides. Otherwise, I think they are too big for what I am building...Any thoughts?

Thanks, Al Lyons

I think that is way too big for the side of a teardrop but I've never built one so it may just be me.

My $0.02...

Later,
dave

Check out your local auto salvage for trashed truck toppers, slide in campers or RV's. Old VW campers and some older mobile homes had some great crank out windows also. Old boats often have stuff we can use. Recycle shop is good too. I built an entire tear a few years ago for $297 out of pocket scrounging, trading and recycling.

Hi Gang,

Just a reminder, as per my earlier post, I am still gathering parts for my "Weekender for a Family of Five" project. Anyone who comes up with any surplus hardware, electrical parts/12volt stuff, and are willing to part with it for a reasonable amount to a fellow teardropper on a budget, please let me know.

Thanks, AL in Asheville!