do I need a 2x2 frame

[drobe56600]

Hi Teardroppers
I'm wondering if I need a 2x2 wood frame or can I bolt the sides and 3/4 ply floor right to the metal frame? I'm using a northern tools kit frame. 1 place I read said the only reason for the frame was to screw the sides to. I'm putting the sides on the outside of the frame so the frame doesn't show.
Thanks
Dave in Northern Ca.

[steve cowan]

No,there is no need for the wood frame.In fact ,if you haven't already bought the floor you might consider 1/2" ply to reduce weight.

Steve

[KCStudly]

A lot of people do that because they are building up over the tires and need the added height for the axle to be able to articulate; so they build the floor up over the fenders.

If you are only planning on camping alone and are only going 4 wide, no problem. If you have a partner/sigother/wife, then I would advise you to reconsider building 5 wide. (Two of the most popular build regrets are building 4 wide for two people and only installing one side door.)

[Jdw2717]

I added 1.5" stringers to the frame to make my in floor storage deeper (see photos in my album). The bottom of the bins are 1/2" ply flush with the bottom of the frame rails so the 1.5" stringers plus the 4" frame rail gave me a depth of 5". Just another option to think about.

[drobe56600]

Thanks for the suggestions. We rented a 4x8 teardrop before we decided if I should build one. I'm building. 5x9.
Dave.

[bobhenry]

Chubby is a 5 x 10 on a modified HF frame. It was smashed by a bolder they thought it should be able to carry.

The 3/4 osb lays flat on the frame and I added a 2x4 skirt board under the floor to secure the walls to.









more pics way way back in my album