I need some hardware help

Posted:
Sat Jun 20, 2009 4:21 pm
by alloffroad
I am going to build a sort of covered wagon over my utility trailer for camping. I have a bunch of chainlink fence top rail that is 1" dia. I need to be able to attach it to the trailer at the camp site without the use of tools but what ever it is anchored to the trailer with must be flush so it does not cause a snag point when I am using the trailer for other things. I also has to be rugged to with stand the usage of the trailer for carrying heave items and it needs to be easy to keep clean for easy attachment of the pipe. I wish I could verbally draw a better picture. If you know what I am thinking about or just know of some good building hardware websites please let me know. Thanks.


Posted:
Sun Jun 21, 2009 8:33 pm
by madprinter
Is the trailer a pipe rail type? If you can weld some short pieces of slightly larger pipe to the sides and slide the fence rail into it. You can drill a hole thru both pieces of pipe and use some hitch pins. You can find the pins at Tractor Suppy or a hardware store. There east to pull out and stay secure when latched. Note, most fence toprail is larger than 1", most is 1 3/8 I believe.

Posted:
Sun Jun 21, 2009 11:39 pm
by alloffroad
madprinter, you might be on to something. The top rail is 2.5" X 2.5" angle.There are 2 supports in the middle of each side top rail then the 2 end supports. I could hole saw the top in 3 places, 1 at each end and 1 in the moddle tucked into the support so it doesn't become a hang up or snag point. If I cut the hole slightly larger that the pipe I have now and inserted a piece of pipe to match the hole that would be long enough to reach from the top rail to the bed of the trailer then cut a hole in the bed and put a stopper to support the inserted pipe (1" dia.) but not caping the hole to allow for easy clean out of dirt and debris.
angle &pipe angle &pipe angle pipeipe & angle
Lo______Lo________L_________oL

Posted:
Sun Jun 28, 2009 6:06 pm
by alloffroad
I found some neat accessories for a tarp type tent. They have peel and stick zippers, doors, and grommets. Makes building a tent out of a tarp easy.
http://www.zipup.com/