I've been working on this design, either in my head, my dreams, or on my computer for years now and I've decided that it's finally time to start building - but I'd like to get some feedback before I get too deep into the build.
General Build details:
- Custom 5x10 welded steel trailer with #9 Torflex Torsion Axle rated at 1800#, 15' wheels, 10" electric brakes
- Skeletonized/insulated plywood wall construction w/ |3mm baltic birch|3/4" ACX ply or foam|3mm baltic birch|.040 aluminum| sandwich
- Floor intended to be (from ground up) |6mm baltic birch|3/4" poplar or foam|3mm baltic birch|
- Galley designed around a 45 liter cooler, pull out stove, and 10-12 gallons of water storage
- Plan to use custom 280ah LiFePo4 battery for extended boondocking
- Total weight estimated at 1600lbs
Biggest design questions as I get started:
- Where to put the spare tire?
- -Sidewall mounting on the rear quarter - concerned about the weight damaging the wall
-Under trailer mounting - concerned about access, ground clearance reduction, and how to attach and manage stress in the floor - any hardware suggestions?
- Skip the spare tire or put it in the tow vehicle (not preferred)
- - Best adhesive for laminating the sidewall sandwich construction? - leaning to PL Premium
- Which undercoating for floor? - leaning to just using exterior grade paint
- - Intentions would be that you could load clothes and whatnot into the footlocker without having to crawl into the cabin
- Does this use case seem viable or is this a big waste of time/money?
I have many many more questions, but these are some of the key questions remaining in my brain as I get started.
I'm hoping to start welding the frame this weekend and will start sharing build progress photos and updates as they happen.
I welcome your thoughts and feedback on the design - there's a brief window to make some major changes, but I'll be requesting feedback on smaller decisions as I go.
Thanks for looking and I hope you enjoy the journey with me!
-uberpixel