Construction Question on Square Trailers

[spinrock9]

My question involves the Grasshopper type of trailer. Actually any squared off trailer.

For those that have built one... why do I notice that one common denominator for these trailers is on the front wall. Instead of a 90 degree roof line/front wall interface, there is an angular offset of varying degrees. Is this necessary for some reason? Some are quite extreme and some are very slight. I realize this has more of a pleasing asthetic line to it, but is it structurally required or easier to build?

The reason I'm asking is because I am going to build a 5X8 box type trailer and have worked through most details now except for this front wall roof interface.

Thanks for any input.

[sunny16]

The nice thing about building a trailer is that you can do whatever you want. Any profile is acceptable. I haven't heard any too many negative comments at all here on the forum for anyones designs. Mostly great comments and suggestions. As you can see, my trailer profile is a bit squared than most. It is a profile I worked on for a while and it give me a bit more head room and more storage room in the galley area. So design away and build it how you want. Good luck!

[madjack]

...aerodynamics............................................

[SmokeyBob]

As MJ said ...aerodynamics... and I thought it looked better.

Doing that front angle required doing some bevel cuts on the spars. If you don't have a table saw find someone that does. I did mine with a jig saw and that was a learning experence. And a lot of Bondo or wood filler will come in handy.

[angib]

If you're worried about aerodynamics, a rounded corner (like sunny16's) is much more benefit than a sloping front.

Most slopes are only of aesthetic benefit, not a drag benefit, if they end in a sharp corner.

Andrew

[Arne]

To me, they look like trying to hold a 4x8 sheet of ply against a 60 mph wind.... I'm too old for that.

[Joanne]

Hey SpinRock!

First, welcome to the forum! I am just finishing my Desert Dawg which is a grasshopper style trailer. I laid back the front of mine purely for asthetic reasons. After I had the sides and roof on I found a window that I decided to install across the front. I really like the light and openess that it provides.



I'm looking forward to seeing photos of your build.

Joanne

My question involves the Grasshopper type of trailer. Actually any squared off trailer.

For those that have built one... why do I notice that one common denominator for these trailers is on the front wall. Instead of a 90 degree roof line/front wall interface, there is an angular offset of varying degrees. Is this necessary for some reason? Some are quite extreme and some are very slight. I realize this has more of a pleasing asthetic line to it, but is it structurally required or easier to build?

The reason I'm asking is because I am going to build a 5X8 box type trailer and have worked through most details now except for this front wall roof interface.

Thanks for any input.