Teardrops n Tiny Travel Trailers

Need some help on deciding whether or not to proceed with construction on The Tackle Box as originally planned.

What determines the actual weight capacity of the axle? The trailer I am salvaging for my chassis has an 1800 lb GVW rating. It does have brakes so that is a definite plus. It has 10" 4 bolt wheels which seem to be readily available in 12" or 13" for upgrades.

My main concern is that The Tackle Box being a larger TTT @ 11ft long x 7ft wide x 6ft-6in high in it's present design may get close to that rating.

Is there anything that can be done to increase the weight capacity?

I can pick up a 3500 lb axle at my local tractor supply for $179.00 but then need to add springs, brake assemblies, and wheels and hardware to complete the install.

Beginning to think that I may abandon the Tackle Box until I can afford a custom frame and axle for it. Maybe go back to an OWW like I was originally interested in. Any suggestions?

Your input is ALWAYS appreciated!

I don't think that I could personnally walk away from the Tackle Box...it's way too cool!!! We need to get the frame guru's to get a plan together!!!

That’s already a pretty high rating. If you pay attention to weight, I’m thinking you could come under it and saver yourself a ton of hassle and money. The number one (or nearly so complaint from most builders is that their first build was to heavy. Think those metal self-assembly kitchen shelves; they are quite flimsy until the whole shebang gets bolted together. A light-weight tear or travel trailer is going to be a bit similar – any particular component won’t be too much on its own, but derives most of its strength from being in the overall assembly.

I watched some caravan (camper) racing on a u-tube Top Gear episode this weekend. Whilst they were crashing about, it became quite apparent that they were VERY lightly built. Generally, as long as the water is kept out of the inside, even though they are what would appear to be flimsily built, they will last for decades (as long as they are not raced and smashed into each other!).

I have decided that I am going to stick with the chassis as it is and rethink my build strategy for The Tackle Box. I may need LOTS more help in coming up with construction details that will make it possible and practical.
Already did a bit of redesign on the profile and overall size without losing that look that I wanted. Will have some sketches to post in my build thread soon.
Thanks for the encouragement!

The Lady Bug WW is 10" ft long, 6.5 ft wide and weighs in at 950 lbs (trailer included)- It can be dome but you have to think light! Every joint and screw has to be evaluated as necessary - Can I glue that joint instead of screwing?. What joints MUST be screwed together? Curtains over cabinet openings instead of wood doors, wire racks instead of planking. it's enough to keep you up at night!

is the axle rating because of the smallness of the spindles and cross piece, or because of the spring rating..you can always add a spring or two if the axle assembly itself is beefy enough to handle the load..and if it has built in brakes, it sounds like it is a de-rated higher capacity axle.