New 7x14 Toy Hauler Build

[zroadhouse]

I hadn't been thinking about that. I have been planning on a roof mounted AC unit.

[zroadhouse]

One thing occurs to me, if you have an idea to use a 5500 BTU window shaker A/C that runs on a carriable 2000 watt genny then you can side mount it in a six footer and it's still less far out a side than the wheel fender. Mine sticks out 7 inches with all the condenser vents out in the air while the wheel well is out 11 inches. With a seven foot wide the A/C will stick out further than the wheel fender.







Not a deal killer mind you, it's still just 7 inches. The canopy sticks out four.

Did you need any special support for that AC? I honestly hadn't thought through using a window unit, but now that I see it it's growing on me - though I think I would put it on the other side so that it's not blowing hot air on me if I'm sitting under the awning.

6x10 is super appealing to me in many ways when I think about actual usage of the trailer (home at the track). Mainly it's the family case that would push me to the 7x14 - and admittedly that will probably happen less often so perhaps I could get by with an extra bunk for my daughter (my son and I could split the main sleeping area).

Mostly I feel like 6x10 isn't a big deal and like I would want to use it more - plus there's less work to do since it's a smaller space.

Hmm, time to re-read your thread again...

[AZ_Desert_Rat]

Hi Glenlivet,
What awning and what is the actual size you used; I like the way it tucks in close when rolled up?

Can you give us any additional details (Mfg, Model, size 5500) on the A/C you used ... it also tucks in nicely ...

[zroadhouse]

Also, do you remove it when traveling? I like Tahoe Neil's solution (and build overall): http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=42&t=50275&start=15#p948419

[zroadhouse]

Certainty has arrived. I mocked everything out in SketchUp and then with masking tape on my back porch and 7x14 tandem axle it is!





I am taking lots of elements from lots of trailers on here.

The galley will be on the port side and will have a wrap-around counter that blends into the workbench area. The cabinet in the center will house the ice box, microwave, and food stuffs. Under the galley will be the water and porta potty. Under the workbench will be where I secure my various track oriented bits like stands, tires, etc. Eventually, I think I would build overhead cabinets in this area too - and perhaps a closet by the entry way to hang my racing leathers and store my boots. On the starboard side there will hopefully be just enough space to fit in a 26" rolling tool chest in between the door and the D-ring in the floor.

In the back will be a split fold down bed with a center piece that will double as a dining table. I didn't model it here since I was just trying to get enough fidelity to actually go ahead and order the trailer.

[AZ_Desert_Rat]

Lookin' good!! I like the sketchUp drawings; they give you a good idea where you are going.

Good luck and we will keep an eye out for your build ...

[zroadhouse]

Heading out in a few minutes to Magnum Trailers to place the order!

I'm planning on doing the build in stages:

• Install A/C
• Paint and finish the walls and ceiling
• Workbench in the front
• Beds in the back
• Galley - sink/burner/potty
• Icebox/microwave/pantry
• Upper cabinetry

Hopefully this will let me use the trailer as I build it out!

[Rainier70]

I don't see insulating on there. You might consider it. It helps keep the trailer cool, especially the roof. Also it will be much quieter. Rain on a uninsulated trailer is like being inside the drum while a party is goin on!

Good luck on your build!

[zroadhouse]

Just placed the order! They say 8-10 weeks now.

I'm having insulation, windows, etc. installed by the factory. I'm a pretty busy guy, so I'll trade off a little money for time and focus on building out the interior myself.

One question - we specified that spare tire would be mounted three feet above the tongue to give me space to mount a tongue box (for generators, battery etc.). Has anyone else done this? I need to scan through the threads again. The dealer stated that he'd request drawings back from the factory so that we could confirm placements on everything before they begin the build. So if I need to adjust, I may have a little time to do so.

[zroadhouse]

To answer my own question, I've requested that they mount the spare on the rear ramp door like tnriverluver did in his build.

[aggie79]

Congratulations! I'm officially jealous, but will be following your build for ideas.

[Glenlivet]

Hi Glenlivet,
What awning and what is the actual size you used; I like the way it tucks in close when rolled up?
Can you give us any additional details (Mfg, Model, size 5500) on the A/C you used ... it also tucks in nicely ...

I can take no credit for the awning, it was an option ordered by the first owner, as were the windows. The A/C is called a 'Simplicity', though I'm certain it's the product of some factory that sells/sold them to a number of suppliers who put their own tag on it as I have seen identical ones with a different name. It is 12" by 16" x 12" deep and these dimensions work so well in intruding just 3 inches into the interior, just 7 inches outside, and the louvers for the condensor just clear the outside 1 1/2" of the mounting frame as well as balancing almost perfectly in the opening that it seemed almost as though it were designed for this application. It was just serendipity though, I had the air conditioner on a shelf and it had been given me by a buddy.
It didn't need any additional support and the case riveted to the frame and screwed to the 3/8" plywood inner wall, and helped by the outer frame, is strong enough that I can shake the whole trailer by it. I'm confident I could stand on the thing if I wished and if the cabinet held up to it.

The mockup looks good, what a great way to visualize your project zroadhouse!

[zroadhouse]

Congratulations! I'm officially jealous, but will be following your build for ideas.

And I'm officially poorer. But in a good way.

It's been a couple years since I've utilized my woodworking tools/skills. I will do most of the cabinetry by hand as my power tools are limited to a drill, sander, and a circular saw. I do have a nice collection of hand saws, chisels, planes, etc. I'll try to keep the construction simple and lightweight so that it actually gets done.

[AZ_Desert_Rat]

I don't see insulating on there. You might consider it. It helps keep the trailer cool, especially the roof. Also it will be much quieter. Rain on a uninsulated trailer is like being inside the drum while a party is goin on!

Good luck on your build!

Hi zroadhouse,
I agree with Rainier on the insulation ... On early prospecting trips, I spent a couple of nights in an uninsulated trailer; the night temps dropped down in the high thirties and low forties ... that wasn't the problem, it came after we lit the little heater and put on the coffee. The inside walls condensed moisture and it started raining inside ... everything was damp

Rainier made a great point --- the insulation will help knock the noise down ...

[AZ_Desert_Rat]

Hi Glenlivet,
I can take no credit for the awning, it was an option ordered by the first owner, as were the windows.

Hi Glenlivet,
Thanks for the pics and reply on the awning ... I keep weighing what I want to put up on my CTC and lean towards the rope and pole, then think of trying to put that up by myself when the top of the trailer is a little over 9' ... I bet that would get a laugh!

I have about decided to go with something like yours but, will probably hold of a bit longer to see what the first few trips are like with the wife ...