Thinking of starting a winter build...

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Thinking of starting a winter build...

Postby Chris00WJ » Sun Nov 01, 2009 4:47 am

Hey Everybody. I've been lurking for quite a while. Finally signed up a few weeks ago and continued to lurk. Now Im starting to get more serious about my potential build. My BIGGEST problem (aside from time and money like everyone else) is the fact that I LOVE to start projects but suck at finishing them, haha.

I think I've settled on a larger teardrop build modeled after the Grasshopper design. My 2 favorite styles so far are the Mega Mini's and Stomper XJ's SawTooth XL. Looks wise I love the Sawtooth, but size leads me more towards a Mega Mini. Whatever it ends up being will be towed behind my Jeep WJ (V8, 3" lift). I'd like something similar in height to the jeep (approx 6'3" from ground level) and it WILL see offroad use quite a bit. I like the rear galley design. Im thinking a 5x10 frame? Perhaps slightly wider.

Has anyone done a teardrop build that incorporates an area to transport a dirtbike? I've seen a few builds where a hitch receiver is added to the rear of the trailer either for bicycles or whatever and that's an option for the dirtbike too. My concern is that with that much weight that far back from the axle my tongue weight will be much lighter. I can compensate for that by moving the axle back further but then when the dirtbike isnt on the back my tongue weight will be much higher. Which is the lesser evil? Too much or too little tongue weight?

Im not too picky as far as options go. A basic cook top is on the list and Im DEBATING adding water or not. I thought about just using portable jugs and using that weight on the tongue to offset the weight of the dirtbike if necessary. Fridge would be nice if I could get a nice cheap propane unit.

Another issue I run into is due to my climate. I live in Alberta, Canada and its anywhere from 30 degrees Celsius to -40 degrees Celsius and can drop 20 degrees C within a couple hours. I'd like to have the ability to use the trailer year round as I do a TON of fishing. Generally 1-2 times per week year round (ice fishing rocks my world). I'd love the option of staying out on the ice overnight in the trailer. So, air conditioning and a decent heating system are high on the list. The problem is power consumption. I also want an LCD TV in there for slow fishing days.

Are there any super small propane furnaces out there? A furnace for a standy seems like extreme overkill and a waste of space, but I'd like SOMETHING. I've seen the ceramic candle heaters etc and dont think those would fit the bill for me.

Im pretty used to dealing with metal, but wood is a challenge for me so it should be interesting. Im hoping to start buying some of the larger items within the next month or so. I've been spending the last few weeks drywalling and organizing the garage so I have room to work over the winter.

Wish me luck! Any advice? :twisted:
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Postby bc toys » Sun Nov 01, 2009 6:49 am

good luck with your build you can do it your way yes there are gas heaters out there go back on here a few weeks you will find topic heaters think it under gen. disc. keep us informed with pics
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Postby John T. Hodgen » Sun Nov 01, 2009 7:20 am

Hey Chris(?)
Try JCWhitney RV Catalog for your compact heater. They have a Excalibur IV lp gas furnace-16,000 btu, 240 cfl, 4.4-amp horizontal mount one. GAX075551F for $398.99 that requires only 18in mounting depth and 16-7/8w x 7-3/8"h clearance. Or a small generator with small electric heater. JCW has alot of rv stuff that you can use in TTT. They also have water tanks that could be built under the front frame to offset that dirt bike. Good luck on your build, I alO think my next one will be along the Sawtooth XL design as I have a 2000 Cherokee Sport and want to get away to the mountains.
Til later by the fire-John T. & Linda 8)
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Postby mikeschn » Sun Nov 01, 2009 8:31 am

Hey, I got that catalog yesterday in the mail too!!!

But on page 7 there is a 12,000 BTU that only draws 1.8 amps... :lol:

Yes, it's a few dollars more, but if you are watching every amp... it's worth it!

http://www.jcwhitney.com/jcwhitney/prod ... id=1022666

Mike...
The quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten, so build your teardrop with the best materials...
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Postby Corwin C » Sun Nov 01, 2009 9:51 am

Perhaps a little inspiration ... I have been considering the possibility of having a propane fridge in the galley. What if the ductwork behind the fridge was made of sheet metal and against the dividing wall between the galley and the cabin? Would a removable insulated panel allow the heat from the fridge heat the cabin? :roll: The sheet metal would provide a seal for the combustion gasses. Has anyone tried anything like this?

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Postby Chris00WJ » Mon Nov 02, 2009 9:11 pm

That's not a bad idea. I may end up just using a small 110v heater with some sort of thermostat and timer and some solar panels to charge up the batteries during the day. Maybe a wind turbine too :twisted:

Im sure most of you have already seen it, but I found Lee Valley to be a WICKED source for woodworking tools and their hardware catalogue is AMAZING. Google it and you'll see what I mean. Im gonna swing by there tomorrow and pick up a pocket hole jig and some other router bits.

The garage is cleaned out (Mostly). The table saw is set up. New router is here along with a new planer and sander. Im almost ready to start building the frame.

Im starting to get excited.
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