Oregon Tailer Newbie

[cbasstb95]

Hello builders! 

I just joined up and am working out the details for a small camper build. There's so much info on this forum it's a bit overwhelming but I'm doing my best to go through as much as I can. My carpenter skills are not the strongest as I'm a metal fabricator not a tree chopper but I'm confident I can pull this off.

I'm still a bit undecided on what design style I should do.  I have weight restrictions of under 1k pounds loaded as my car can't tow more.  I have a lightweight trailer already and my new tow hitch is on the way from across country.  Teardrops are my favorite but with a 11 month old child I can't see much room for her to sleep. I've been considering a bunk for her. 

Here is my unused trailer (pics below) I'm using. Bed size 7'3" X 4'7" @ 330lbs dry. If I measure inside rail to rail it's 5'x8'. 






I'll start by removing the tail ramp and metal grate stuff.  That should save probably 50+ pounds there. The rails I kinda want to keep for a off road rugged kinda look and side protection, I don't know yet though as I probably will need the extra width and length for the cabin.  If I did a raised floor I can probably get that extra since it will clear the bottom curved of the rails more. 

She's not the biggest trailer but with me being to cheap to trade in my perfectly good running fully payed off Ford Focus I'll make it work.  I only need this for sleeping in and hauling minor gear,  food and water anyway.  I'm a tent camper and a minimalist at heart but back injurys stop me from sleeping on the ground anymore but with a baby and my sissy pants woman who wants a heater and toilet and etc. instead of a shovel and jacket I'm trying to meet in the middle. Still won't put in a toilet haha. Here's your shovel babe...

More pics because I love more pics.

[Mary C]

Welcome!! I can tell you have been reading, cause you know how much we love those pictures. Just keep reading and learning about the different places to find information. I read most of it, when I joined. I will keep a watch out for your build.

Mary C.

[cbasstb95]

Thanks for the welcome. I've been reading off and on for several days now. I get so distracted sometimes from reading one thread and following a link then their is another link to some thing else. Before you know it im on a completely different topic and changing my design plans

Finding 4 affordable windows seems to be whats holding me up right now. I want the windows before I start making the cab since I plan to do a skeleton 3/4 ply sandwich. I'll make them if I have to (Wiley method) but would prefer a RV style for better looks and fit. I've been looking at second hand and others for some. I think I have most everything else covered so far ether I already have it or can get it from the hardware store across town.

[lee senn]

Welcome onboard. Looks like you are off to a good start with your trailer. Might look at some of the bunk arrangements on this forum for the little one. I would suggest the luggable loo to make things more pleasant for the missus. You will find many ideas here for a way to provide the missus with privacy and easy access to the loo. Some have an arrangement to attach a circular ring just outside one door from which you can affix a shower curtain allowing access to the loo and privacy. As to windows one resource, often overlooked , is junkyards. Every junkyard in america seems to have a bunch of stickbuilt travel trailers off in the corner and you just might be able to snag some windows affordably. Keep us posted. Lee