Greetings Everyone...
I am new to the T&TTT and have enjoyed searching and reading thru a number of the forums.
I am contemplating a utility trailer build/design that would mimic a pick up truck camper, in that I would like to be able to drive the utility trailer out from under the Expedition POD. I intended to use the trailer for traditional work chores as well as Camping.
My tow vehicle is a 09 Grand Cherokee, 4.7 V8 with Quadra Drive II, 265/60R18 Wrangler Silent Armor AT tires and an Air Lift 1000 system in the rear for adjusting tongue weight sag. So I will be somewhat limited in my degree of trail difficulty, which is OK.
My Jeep has a 6500 lb gross towing weight rating but I don't plan to come anywhere near that with my final gross towing weight.
OK... so here are the concept specs for the base trailer.
5x8 steel-side A frame utility trailer
- 12" steel sides
- matching 12" steel-side gate
- 4' landscaping gate
- pressure treated wood floor
- 3500 lb GVWR axle with over slung set up from factory
- (4) leaf suspension
- electric brakes
- interchangeable bolt on coupler (2 5/16" ball & Pintle hoop)
- 2000 lb top wind jack
- full DOT lighting & 7 pin hook up
- 5 x 4.5 lug pattern (5x5 optional)
- 205R/75R15 tires ( I could run bigger but not sure I want to just yet)
- matching spare
- 700 lb trailer weight
I discussed the option of bolting on the fenders so a future tire size & fender mod would be easier.
Some additional factory install ideas for the trailer build.
- Diamond plate platform welded over the A frame from the tub front to the jack stand.
- Diamond plate running boards from the front/rear body corners angled out to meet the outside fender edges.
- 2" receiver hitch on rear of trailer
- pre-cut tie down locations ready for hardware install
- Color Choices (black, equipment yellow, grey, red, regatta blue, tractor green and white)
My tow vehicle is a Stone White. I'm not sure I would go with a white trailer, but... Let me know your thoughts on color choice. Black sure is east to repaint down the road.
I'd love to hear if you favor a specific brake controller for off-road use.
May I say my local trailer guy has become as excited as me regarding this project. I hope to put my order in on Monday with an early December delivery.
I welcome your comments and feedback on my base trailer build to help me get this project off on a good foundation.