I think I figured out my build

[friz]

I will start with my design parameters. I need it to be light and reasonably aero efficient. My TV is a 14 Ford Focus with a 5sp. This is the class of car I enjoy driving the most, so for the life of my tear, I don't think that will change. I really like the look of the classic teardrop so the profile will be a Grumman. For economy and light weight I plan to build on an NT 5X8 trailer.

The floor will be 3/4 ply. The sides will be 1/8" birch with exposed 3/4 ply frame for the classic woody look. The roof 1/8 birch as well. I may insulate and double wall the roof so I can keep the wood exposed on the inside and resist condensation. The interior side walls I plan to cover with foam backed carpet for a little noise reduction and minimal R value.

I was debating on including a galley on this build but reading some posts where people regreted not doing one changed my mind. Galley for sure.

Finishing will be a few heathy coats of marine varnish and possibly some paint to match the TV in between the frame work on the sides. The bottom will get a treatment of roofing tar.

Some lights, roof fan, and a simple electrical system and I should be good to go.

Let me know what I am missing or if I am heading down the wrong path altogether. Thanks in advance.

Friz

[KennethW]

3/4 floor is over kill. 3/8 would be enough.One does not walk on the floor of a teardrop so no need for the 3/4.
How will you seal the edges of the 3/4 exposed plywood frame? Might be a problem area.
Be aware that marine varnish require biannual work if outside for longer periods of time.
Good luck.

[friz]

Thanks! One of my last projects was a 24x48 shop so it will live inside when not in use. I was wondering about the edges of the ply. I was hopeful that enough varnish would keep it sealed. I'll scale back the floor as you suggested.

[GPW]

Friz, we’ve had great Luck with a mixture of 75% Mineral Spirits , and 25% Polyurethane varnish , slathered on in multiple coats till it won’t take any more , and it does a really good job sealing the end grains ... and is probably best used everywhere...

[friz]

Friz, we’ve had great Luck with a mixture of 75% Mineral Spirits , and 25% Polyurethane varnish , slathered on in multiple coats till it won’t take any more , and it does a really good job sealing the end grains ... and is probably best used everywhere...

So would it be best to seal everything with this mix then follow up with the marine varnish to get the gloss?

[friz]

Playing with sketchup.

[friz]

Playing some more. Alum skinned rook and corvette tail lights.

[GPW]

Those of us with trailers in rainy parts of the country must seal EVERYTHING ... One little leak can cause major rot/de-lamination problems on unsealed /unprotected wood parts ... Makes a good base for more Glossy varnish or paint ..

[friz]

I corrected the scale of my model and placed it on the model of the trailer I plan to use.

[noseoil]

Fritz, I like it! Looks like a nice clean package & even matches the paint! I'm a bit confused, it's going to be painted to match, yes? Not a traditional "woody" look with exposed wood trim, correct?

[friz]

I have yet to model the wood trim. Soon

[friz]

I also need to refine some of the interior dimensions. I don't think my mattress will fit as it is now.