Boat trailer as a Base for camper ??

[twintrades]

Would a boat trailer work for a camper base ??? Granted there will be need to ajust it to fit certin things. What do i need to know about tire placment forward back im totaly new to this. If some one could give me a good starting place id appreciate it.

I will not be able to buy a trailer kit or anything. I have boat trailers (smaller boat ones.) And one Homemade trailer that has a heavy duty axle.


Any one ??

[looped]

i have considered jon boat trailers for the task before. they are plenty strong for the task,, my concern would be the weight of some of the more heavy duty ones.

[angib]

Those who've used boat trailers often seem to say that they wish they hadn't - and they should be the guys who know best the answer to your question. Frequently they say they should have sold the boat trailer and bought a utility trailer with the money.

But equally they prove you can build from a boat trailer, though the work to convert the trailer to teardrop use is often substantial.

Andrew

[Ken A Hood]

http://sonetpro.shutterfly.com/8

Check with Sonetpro, he built a nice on on a boat trailer......

[twintrades]

Thats great !! Im a pic kinda person so that link is sweet!!

[JIML1943]

I built mine on a boat trailer,will take it over a bolt togather any day.Good luck with your build.

[frank_a]

I built a 4X8 utility trailer on an old Ship Mate boat trailer. I love it in part because I can easily move the axle to increase or decrease tongue weight, and thereby towability!

I thought about using it for a TD, but then sold it to a guy.

Frank

[planovet]

The Dog used one and it turned out nice.



Here is his build thread:

http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?t=29535

[frank_a]

Boy, nice TD he built. Thanks for sharing that thread. I'm still luring around, collecting ideas. So far it's either build a tiny lightweight (under 1000#s) TD, or just go all out and build a standy. I should be able to get through all the ideas in this website by the end of 2011 and then I can start building something!

Frank

[sahaanco]

I used a boat trailer it worked perfect

[Ron Dickey]

I have a boat trailer I got free.
I recomend if you can afford it have one made. It will take more time because you have to know what you are planning to make rather adapting to the premade frame you have.
I did not have the money at the time but I am now looking at having a new one made.

1. if you buy or get one free (like I did) check the welds, and If it was
used in the ocean bewary that the salt may have weekened the metel
on the bottom. Until you remove all the old paint will you really know
if the unit is worth using for your project.
And if you are willing to spend extra money to have
reinforcment welding done.
Mine broke twice.
Once 2 states over had to be towed and welded at a motel
2 days later.
The most resent the Tung snapped at the base of the trailer,
blocking traffic. I had connections and got the weld done
for less expected.
I spent 450 dollars for repairs and towing .... it could have been even
more then to add to that I had the other side of the axel welded
to in sure it would not brake on a third sunday!
1a. I had my tung brake after 3 years of use
and it was from the bottom.
1b. therefore a new frame is in the works. will I move the body over
or build a new body is yet to be seen.
2. If it is a center bar like mine with a T at the end and over the axel
you will need to add a bar for the front
and make sure you add a 2x4 or metal bar running on the outer edges
of both sides to support the front corner weight.
2a. if you have one with frame on both sides it is best.
3. check all welds grind off all old paint and inspect the unit for holes
have someone who knows metal and welds check it to see if any
new ones be needed.
You may have a real investment or you may be spending money in places where you have never been and hope AAA covers your trailer.
I wished I had gotten Sam club breakdown insureance and if I go over 500 + miles again I may just do that.