Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

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Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

Postby Kevin_pnw » Mon Dec 02, 2024 4:14 pm

Hi everyone,

I'm starting planning for my custom teardrop build and I want to start by nailing down a source for the trailer chassis. I've never welded before and I'm not very comfortable with my first welding project being towed down the highway...so I'm looking to buy or get custom made.

Does anyone know of a good reputable welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region that I could look into?

My initial plans are for either 5x11 or 5x12 to give a little extra sleeping room for me, my wife, and 2 medium/large dogs.

Thank you!
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Re: Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

Postby tony.latham » Mon Dec 02, 2024 9:26 pm

I don't, but you are welcome to use my plans for your trailer. They've been used for numerous teardrops.

Image

It's built from 2" .120" square tubing.

Here are the axle details:


• #9 Dexter Torflex axle, downrated to 1600 pounds
• Start Angle: 22.5” down
• Trailer width: 59.5”
• Hub face: 74”
• Hub diameter: 6.5”
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 4-1/2” with standard studs
• Lubrication: EZ Lube
• Electric Brakes: Yes

Image

Good luck with your build,

Image

Tony
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Re: Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

Postby Kevin_pnw » Mon Dec 02, 2024 10:42 pm

tony.latham wrote:I don't, but you are welcome to use my plans for your trailer. They've been used for numerous teardrops.


It's built from 2" .120" square tubing.

Here are the axle details:


• #9 Dexter Torflex axle, downrated to 1600 pounds
• Start Angle: 22.5” down
• Trailer width: 59.5”
• Hub face: 74”
• Hub diameter: 6.5”
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 4-1/2” with standard studs
• Lubrication: EZ Lube
• Electric Brakes: Yes


Good luck with your build,


Tony


Thanks Tony! I've actually got a copy of your book from amazon which I'm basing my design on :thumbsup:

If no one else chimes in, I'll use that to get some quotes from welders in the area. I've got plenty of time since I probably won't start construction for another year or so. Also going to keep my eyes on used markets in the area.
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Re: Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

Postby tony.latham » Mon Dec 02, 2024 11:12 pm

I'm basing my design on :thumbsup:


Don't be shy with the questions.

Tony
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Re: Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

Postby halfdome, Danny » Tue Dec 03, 2024 5:47 pm

I would avoid using a welder next to hwy 512 close to Pacific Ave.
My first frame was built there and they got it wrong and had to cut the Dexter axle down.
He said they were the best plans he had ever seen, well
After that I bought a welder and a DVD on welding and made my own.
:D Danny
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"Conditions are never just right. People who delay action until all factors are favorable do nothing". William Feather
Don't accept "It's Good Enough" build to the best of your abilities.
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Re: Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

Postby Kevin_pnw » Tue Dec 03, 2024 6:00 pm

halfdome, Danny wrote:I would avoid using a welder next to hwy 512 close to Pacific Ave.
My first frame was built there and they got it wrong and had to cut the Dexter axle down.
He said they were the best plans he had ever seen, well
After that I bought a welder and a DVD on welding and made my own.
:D Danny


Thanks for the tip! The more I think about it the higher chances that's also the route I go down. Maybe with a few extra bolts to give me more confidence in the structural integrity...
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Re: Welder or trailer fabricator in the Puget sound region?

Postby halfdome, Danny » Tue Dec 03, 2024 7:35 pm

I use 24 elevator bolts to hold my 3/4” plywood floor to the chassis.
It’s a lot more work welding brackets to the chassis but the structure integrity increases.
Also more welding practice for the novice.
:D Danny

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"Conditions are never just right. People who delay action until all factors are favorable do nothing". William Feather
Don't accept "It's Good Enough" build to the best of your abilities.
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