Hi all, I am playing with ideas for very light Teardrop. Target weight is under 400 pounds, I would like to use the lightest of Timbren suspension systems "axle-less" units. http://timbren.com/products-page/400lbs/asr400s02/
Basic idea is a very minimalist trailer, that on it's own will be pretty bendy. The shell of the camper itself will be built around a plywood bed platform, with bulkheads and box outs front and rear. Foam is shaped around that, and then fibreglass wrap. The base is formed around the frame, and then bonded, and possibly bolted or riveted as well. the intention is the fibreglass and minimal frame together are sufficiently rigid/strong for towing. Typical rear galley under a hatch out back. Doors and hatch made out of light frame with fibreglass over foam. Part of my design involves temporary formers between the bulkheads to permit shaping of the foam roof. Floor plan is around an inflatable mattress about 77"x 52" with a head height of 44-48" Overall dimensions of 100" x 68" height 60"
Projected tow vehicle is a ford focus, so wanting to keep weight down, and not much wider/taller than the car. So far, estimated weight for the frame, such as it is, is coming in at 150# including suspension units, wheels, including spare. I am coming up with similar numbers or slightly less for the plywood.
I have no idea what the glass will weigh, other concerns are around the finishing of the fibreglass, which I expect to be the biggest chore in the building, and if it might be too light. This will be a very aero design, and a teardrop is close enough to an aerofoil shape that it might generate enough lift make the trailer become unmanageable.
Please hack away at my ideas, and chime in if you have relevant experience with any of this.