newbie

[jasonneuerburg]

Hello,
I'm going to have a builder make me a 4x8 harbor freight trailer teardrop. I want it minimal for now to keep costs down. I need to give hime some simple plans to build this. Can someone recommend some? Also if I purchase an already built used trailer what do I need to do to make it safe with the tilting feature?
thanks
Jason

[Mary C]

Jason Welcome to tnttt. I think it is great to want a tiny teardrop. and I think using the Harbour Freight trailer is great. Your question is not so far fetched everyone has to start somewhere that is why I am answering your question. There are some bolts that are provided to stabilize the folding mechanism. If the bolts are not provided then get some and put them in and no way it can fold up. There is a mountain of help on here but I will suggest you dedicate yourself to really do some reading. read as much as you can then we can help you better. Read trailer and chasis and read some of the build threads. look around on the forum and get to know as much about it as you can. Mention where you live so those nearby can suggest where to purchase things and offer help. There are people from all over the world on here and everyone here is also about building relationships and having fun camping and enjoying the build so relax and read, read read.

Mary C.

[Ptomaine]

There are no bolts provided to prevent 'Tilting'. If you are going to replace the pin/cotter key fastener with a bolt, DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN!
I snugged mine up too much and broke the weld that attached the U braket to the frame.

[wagondude]

As for plans, use the design resources tab at the top of the page. There are several designs there to choose from. You can't go wrong with the Generic Benroy for a first tear build. If you are looking for a more simple design without bending plywood, the Weekender is a good choice. Either of those options will eliminate the folding ability of the Harbor Freight trailer if built to the plans.

[jasonneuerburg]

thanks for the feedback everyone. I have been browsing the forum for a few weeks so I have a little bit of reading done. Ended up finding a used trailer today. Also which version is the weekender? Is that the standard but with straight lines instead of curves?

[wagondude]

This is a Weekender :

It is one of Mike's designs, I believe. You may have to get the plans from him. I know the drawings were posted somewhere, I'll keep looking (or someone else will post a link).


EDIT: Here is a build thread with side profile dimensions. viewtopic.php?f=5&t=17745

[SeaFlea]

Hi Jason,

I believe this is all you'll need:http://www.mikenchell.com/weekender/

Charlie

[Gold5one]

The "weekender" seems to have become a moniker for a fun little camper, that's pretty fast to build, inexpensive ( as they go) and a real freedom machine for all of us Walter Mitty types who have been stuck at home for various reasons. My weekender-XL is going to be my retirement, escape-from-boredom camper. Good luck on building your dream.
I was attracted to that style due to it's emphasis on practicality above the more artsy rounded teardrops. I was raised as a no nonsense farm kid- so, am I ever going to make it to Hillbilly days in Pikestown, KY? I hope so!

[jasonneuerburg]

What would be the best wood for looks and for cost if I wanted to put a clear coat on the wood to give it a natural wood look? Also what would I put on the wood to protect it? Or do I need to use something more heavy duty? Is particle board too heavy?