New off road build

[Endo]

We need an update........any more progress?

[jamscal]

I've been busy with work but I did get some windows in the mail, and built the rear door yesterday.

I'll post some more pics when I have the side doors made.

Thanks,

James

[jamscal]

Latest update:

Have the doors made. Holes for the windows cut out.

One pic shows the window and door handle mocked up.

‘slit’ windows are going to have some fixed lexan.

Probably do a similar window in the front and a hatch or vent up top.

[BC Dave]

Nice work; heavy metal ... da da da ....

.... your using rigid insulation? I found on my CT conversion; steel with aluminum skin, heat and cold is transfered fast anwhere there is a continuous connection; despite having put 1X3 strapping; 3/8 ply and 4" batten insulation in the walls the screw heads still get frost / condensation on them...

other question ... why did you go with a solid axel? and not the independant coil spring type? (... it would have better center clearence; from what i've seen on the Ausi off rd campers)

[jamscal]

Nice work; heavy metal ... da da da ....

.... your using rigid insulation? I found on my CT conversion; steel with aluminum skin, heat and cold is transfered fast anwhere there is a continuous connection; despite having put 1X3 strapping; 3/8 ply and 4" batten insulation in the walls the screw heads still get frost / condensation on them...

other question ... why did you go with a solid axel? and not the independant coil spring type? (... it would have better center clearence; from what i've seen on the Ausi off rd campers)

Yes, rigid insulation (The blue foam from Lowe's). We don't need to consider the cold as much down here though.

Stick axle: Simplicity. This is my first build. I would like to try one of the 'exotic' suspensions in the future though.

Thanks,

James

[Wolffarmer]

Nice looking build, glad it is you and not I doing the boat look. Different.

One thing i would think about is the front spring hanger. I have seen pics of another person's off road trailer that the hanger tore the welds apart where they are welded to the tube. I was thinking if I ever used that type of construction I would weld little plates from the hanger side up the 2" frame for added support. Should not be much more weight and though would have been easier to do with out the body attached. From the looks of your welding skills you will be able to do it with no problems.

Just imagine in your mind what it would look like if the axle was to pull those hangers off. I think you will get the idea what i am talking about.

[jamscal]

It would take a serious situation to pull that spring hanger off.

That said, I don't really like the way it looks either and will probably put some sort of plates in there.

The tube is 2" and the bracket is about 2 1/2" wide, so I can't just go up with a plate, but I'll think of something.

__________

No progress this week unfortunately. I think things will slow down enough over the holidays to make some good progress.

-James

[Moosemt]

Any new progress, I am interested as I am starting my build soon and might steal some of you ideas if you dont mind. Started my build journal as well, http://tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?t=34302

[S. Heisley]

That trailer looks bullet proof...literally! It reminds me of a Brinks truck! It looks like you'll be able to go off road without worrying about much damage.

[jamscal]

Not much visible progress.

I welded a bunch of the seams but haven't had as much time as I thought I would.

I'm going to do a bit more welding/grinding, tackle the weatherstripping issue, and then maybe have something pic-worthy.

Fenders maybe.

Thanks,

James

[Pat's 49]

Any trouble with warpage when welding the seams? I'm ready to start welding 24 gauge sheetmetal to 14 guage tube, plug welding I can do but edge seams worry me.

[jamscal]

Pat, I sent you an email.

Long story short, mine is warping along the seams, and it's 18 ga backed up by the tubes.

I'm not too worried as I'm going for the Olive Drab Military Trailer look, and I expected some warpage.

It sure won't be like some of the aluminum skinned beauties on this site.

There are several 'fixes' including basic bodywork but I think I'm going to clean and paint.

-James

[Moosemt]

Looks like you are planning a roof rack in the sketch. Are you using the flanges you have built on the top to raise it off of the metal?

[jamscal]

A roof rack is possible. I don't know if I'll put one on.

The flanges will be welded on either way as tie downs/ part of the 'look'.

I would use those to mount the rack.

[Mikey1975]

Yea i was wondering whats the finish ceiling height going to be?

By the way it looks great i am building a 5x10 trailer and was planning on 5'3" inside ceiling but i like the look of yours.

SEE YA!!