Here's what I started with (more pictures in my album):
I picked up a 2000# Tractor supply axle 5' wide to use on the modification and some 14" wheels. I'll have to move the underslung spring perches in about 1.5" in order to have clearance between the tire and trailer sidewall.
I dismantled the frame, wire brushed it, rust treated it, and so far have hit it with 2 coats of tractor supply oil based sandable implement primer. Once it is assembled, I'll hit it with another coat of primer and then 2 top coats.
Among the pieces are a 2 part tongue (hat channel over C-channel) plus coupler, 4 C-channels that were the side-rails and 6 cross members that are in a 1/2 hat channel shape. All of the metal is 1/8 thick
C-Channel
1/2 hat channel:
Here's a picture of what I'd like to do (as I don't want to spend any more money than necessary)--of course I'd be cutting off the material sticking out to the sides:
HERE ARE THE QUESTIONS:
1) Will the front cross member be strong enough by having a crossmember sandwiched on top of 2 C-channels? These would be bolted together on the vertical sides (front and back) with 6 bolts each side. The floor would be above this and most likely a bulkhead above that.
2) The 2nd cross member would be constructed the same as the 1st. How far back from the front crossmember should this be?
3) I think it would be ok to use 2 of the former crossmembers as siderails, 1/2 hat part hanging down, with cut off C-channel from revised crossmembers inserted to bolt them together on the vertical surface. These pieces are about 18" long--I'd like to get 6" inside each piece to lengthen it about 6"
4) The angled tongue pieces may need to be longer. How far out on the tongue from the front cross member should they be and how far back on the side-rails should they go?
5) A few more cross members would be created from 2x4 wood and inserted as needed.
Thanks for your comments and input!
joe
