How about a scale model trailer build?...or build off?

[Minicamper42]

Since I am going to build my trailer in a scale model version first...I thought how cool it would be to have others build their versions or their ideal of what they would like to build...build cost would be minimal, maybe a $100 bucks or less, depending on your resources...anyway I thought it would be cool to have a thread dedicated to trailer model builds...why not!?...they sell old car models right?...and since most TD trailers are home built anyway I thought I would get your input on what you think...most of us have bobbies and need some time to kill...balsa wood and foam board is cheap compared to building the real thing...plus you will get a chance to express your designs and ideals.

The other cool ideal is selling your model on-line, why not?...I can't express enough the need for TD trailers that would look cool behind that cool '57 Chevy Nomad model sitting in some guys office...I worked commercial construction for about 12 yrs. and can't say how many model cars that people had in their office or home on display...I believe there is a nitch in the market for a fully customized TD trailer that needs to be on display behind some ones childhood build or adult build.

So please leave your point of view on the subject below as I am wanting to hear your opinion

[Minicamper42]

Soooo 21 people read my post but no one has anything to say?

I thought since this forum consists mostly of builders that I would have some response...I guess either I have to be first or unless there are pictures to view, no one is interested in a model build

Mini 4-2

[irondance2003]

It would be something to do in the computer room when you get sick of on line poker !
Now what scale would you do it in/? 1:43 and you can get them off the shelf at toy car shops "Cararamar" make them I have 2 a Mini with a woodie TD and a VW with a alloy and black, Mind you they are back wards in the fact that the Mini is towing the Big Woodie.
I work in Gn15 scale 1:22.5 - 1:24 which is a bit small as well.
The Wallace and Grommit Anti Pesto Van (Austin A30) that I have started is about 1:12 and even that would be a lot of fun trying to scratch build, But it is an idea as with Wallace you would not need any windows or doors as the thing would have some sort of mech to do all the camp set up.
So about 1:5 would have to be around the scale so you could have all that opens and shuts.
So a model would be about 16in's (400mm) long for an 8ft'er (2440mm).
Wait till I finish this build and I will wash it in warm water and see if it shrinks as there would be all most as much in that model build as a real build.
Now in the Hall Of Fame there is a model any idea on the scale used there?
NO I'm not knocking the idea I'm for it

[PaulC]

I've built a half scale which will be towed behind my motorbike. That's about as small as I would build. If others see the need then I'm all for it but only as an observer.
Cheers
Paul

PS there's two responses and they are both from Downunder

[irondance2003]

OK Paul
Unlike most people in this forum I have had the pleasure of your company!
How the hell do you fit?
And opening the kitchen hatch so ya feet stick out to sleep don't count.

[Minicamper42]

I guess if you have a model that is 1:16 then match it to that...the cast iron collectibles I've seen come much bigger...it really doesn't matter how big or how small your build is, it's the art of designing a model that might appeal to someone that may want one, and if the roof can be removed to review the interior design and content that would be cool.

I will have some progress pictures of my own model build...I first will need to pick up a cheap car model kit so that I will have an axle for my trailer and build a frame for it...my build will be done in a 1:1 scale...meaning that 1 foot will equal 1 inch...I need it this big for design reasons and to layout the galley and potty room...I will be back later in the week with some progress pics and hope to see more interest in the model build...if anyone here has built one then please share some pics.

Mini 4-2

[Miriam C.]

This is my version of what I would build if I had the time and money to goof off..... It is close to scale.

[doug hodder]

A number of us already do have scale models, but they had to be more of a functional coasting model to be raced. We raced them at the IRG in '08. Check the Pamplin grove topic above for some You Tube of the races. Here's my entry....Miriams is pictured above. Doug

[Sam I am]

I built a 1/25 scale model of my tear a while back. There are pics of it in my album. Right now I'm working on a 1/12 scale tear to go with this 1/12 scale 57 Chevy. the tear model will be candy red and silver to match the car, and use two of the stock 57 chevy wheels & wide whitewall tires.

The tear model will have an opening door and hatch, and a soft foam mattress with foam pillows. Models are cool!
Sam

[Minicamper42]

A number of us already do have scale models, but they had to be more of a functional coasting model to be raced. We raced them at the IRG in '08. Check the Pamplin grove topic above for some You Tube of the races. Here's my entry....Miriams is pictured above. Doug

WOW! that is a very good model that represents your actual trailer...great job Doug

I want to also think everyone else who submitted a picture of their model...I am looking forward to see the '57 trailer and the double smiley face trailer is very cute.

Thank you all

Mini 4-2

[Sam I am]

My 1/12 scale tear is under construction. It's mostly 1/8" birch plywood and has a basswood frame. The fenders are from an old Tonka toy trailer, made of steel. I had to drill out spot welds to get them off!

The top sheeting will be 1/32" balsa with aluminum flashing glued over it. The door and hatch will open, and there will be a foam mattress and pillows inside. I'm having fun with this build!

[jackdaw]

I built a 12th scale model of the Coppertop , just to see if the proportions were somewhere handy.
Its a bit crude, but it served it's perpose



Here it is sitting on the 'work in progress'



Happy building

Dave

[Dean in Eureka, CA]

MC,
Here's the link to Rich's video of the IRG 2.0 Summer Nationals

[caseydog]

A number of us already do have scale models, but they had to be more of a functional coasting model to be raced. We raced them at the IRG in '08. Check the Pamplin grove topic above for some You Tube of the races. Here's my entry....Miriams is pictured above. Doug

You MUST be retired. There is no way a guy with a day job can build the things you build.

CD

[rossjools]

, Hmmmmmmm! Being a plastic modeler I could be interested in this idea. Can any material be used or does it have to be wood? I was thinking of using plastic card for mine.

,
Ross.