Newbie from Louisiana!!!

[randyscrog]

hi there everyone, names Randy ive been fascinated by teardrops my whole life. Well i have a great career now and can afford to build one now. i need help in building a simple teardrop thats gonna be plain but is comfortable that wont break my wallet. please help!!!

[aggie79]

Welcome Randy!

Now that you've decided to build, you need to get moving in a hurry. The biggest gathering of the Southwest Section is at the end of October at Lake Bisteneau. Ready or not, please join us.

Take care,
Tom

[randyscrog]

thanks ill try . i just need some advice on how to get started.

[CAJUN LADY]

Hi Randy and welcome! What part of Louisiana are you from? I'm from South Louisiana (White Castle) but currently living in Florida. I can't help you with the build but when you are ready to decorate or add your accessories, I'm sure a lot of us ladies will chime in. Good luck!

[randyscrog]

im from cameron pairsh . holly beach area but i live in leesville la by FORT POLK Army base

[Roly Nelson]

So you said, "I just need some advice on how to get started". Well Randy, here are a few tips on getting started. First, you have to be committed, and the best way to do that is to get that trailer frame into your shop or garage. Some folks have custom made frames and wheels fabricated to their liking, but the easiest (and cheapest) way to go, is to buy a ready-made trailer, complete with painted steel frame, axle, springs, wheels, tires, fenders, tongue, hitch, safety chains, and brake lights with elect hook-ups to the hauler. That sounds like a pretty hefty order, but can be had at Harbor Freight for about 150 bucks, if you catch one on sale. It can be delivered to your place in just a matter of days, and when it arrives, you are on the way to building your own, one-of-a-kind teardrop trailer. I have used HF frames with 12 inch wheels, on both of my teardrops and have had no problems what so ever.

All you have to do now, is decide how long and wide it will be, the materials you plan to use and what comforts you desire to help you enjoy your camping experience. Some have been built for as little as 500 bucks, which requires a bit of scrounging, but depends on what materials and over-all looks you decide upon. Remember, as you said, you want a simple teardrop that is plain, but comfortable. Good for you, that narrows it down quite a bit. On this board, you can find some genaric plans that will give you some pointers regarding some standard methods and ideas that you will find useful. Remember, most of us have been right where you are right now and probably asked questions, just like you probably will. We are here to help, so just ask. Oh yes, take plenty of pics and post em, you can't go back and take em later. Try to make it to a local Gathering, or better yet, find a forum member living near you.
Roly, So Calif TD builder..........(remember, you can't build just one!)

[randyscrog]

will do . i ordered some plans already im going for either a 4x8 or 5x8 offroad weekender. something simple but will keep me dry and is way better then a tent. i have a 26 foot camper but what fun is that? I will post pics asap right now im just in the planning stage but it is happening. fairly skilled with tools so thats no prob. i just need all the help i can get with the td because thats new to me lol. It rains alot here in Louisiana and is usually about 90 percent humidity year round . heck this morning i had the ac on and im wearing shorts and a polo to work so i need something to handle moisture. I am installing an A/C thats a given. i want a roof rack for a canoe and def a spot in the tongue to put a 2500 to 3500 kw gen > tow rig is a 92 toyota pickup 4x4. second one ive owned same year model. tow cap is 3500# but ive towed 12000 with the yota so im comfy with any weight. but i learn quickly and appreciate any help and very thankful to be a part of a great site and forum.

[John T. Hodgen]

Hey Randy,
Welcome to T&TTT I use to know a girl from Cameron named Glenda Pechoff (last name spelling ?) My family lives in Sulphur and I grew up in Starks. I hear Holly Beach is now for the rich n famous since Rita knocked down all the camp Now I live in the mountains of Wv. Building is a rewarding effort. Take your time and think things out before the next step. I built a woody 4x8 by myself in 4 months at a cost of $1900.00.
By the way, what's the name of the lake up by Fort Polk, use to fish there but can't remember it's name, must be CRS
Til later by the fire--John T. & Linda

[CAJUN LADY]

Hey John, you talking about Toledo Bend Reservoir?

[honeask]

Welcome Randy, we've been to Holly Beach to play at a party for some friends, his name Winston and wife, Benita. Really liked it but don't want to go back and see the devastation of the storm . Enjoy your build and try to make the Lake Bisteneau event, it really is fun.

[randyscrog]

wow havent been on here in awhile things have been crazy this past year but im back on track.

[Mud_Bug]

Dang, there's a few of us here. I'm originally from Franklin. Now residing in the piney woods of East Texas. Welcome here.

[randyscrog]

lol thanks im from holly beach but i reside in leesville la by fort polk and toledo bend. im going to be starting within the next week on the tear

[John T. Hodgen]

Hey MudBug,
I lived and worked out of Morgan City for 25+ yrs. I Know a couple of people from Franklin-Wally Pugh, a biker named Foot and one Named Bo Bo. You wouldn't happen to know them would you?
Til later by the fire--John T. & Linda

[Mud_Bug]

Hey MudBug,
I lived and worked out of Morgan City for 25+ yrs. I Know a couple of people from Franklin-Wally Pugh, a biker named Foot and one Named Bo Bo. You wouldn't happen to know them would you?
Til later by the fire--John T. & Linda

Yes, I know them all. My mom owned Polito's cafe in Franklin for a very long time. I met them all several times there. All are really good people.