Pilot Point, TX - Just Registered

[M C Toyer]

I've visited this site for ideas in the past and more frequently since last December after meeting some of the South Central group at Lake Ray Roberts. I am really impressed by the craftsmanship, designs and ingenuity of many examples on this site but even more by the good humor, friendliness, and willingness to share those skills.

I had just completed my first build, a 4 x 8 TTT set up to haul my kayak and bike and tow my sailboat, fully self-contained for boon-docking. I had planned a larger version for my second build to serve as a base camp for extended excursions. Plans changed and now I'm leaning toward a traditional TD for a long trip through the western and north-western states this coming fall.

I did not take a lot of build pics of my first, but will post what I do have soon with brief details. My goals then were quick and cheap, focused on function more than form - its not pretty, but is sturdy and satisfied my needs. It is fully water tight and well ventilated and comfortable down to 15 -20 degrees and the 90s this past weekend. I have a rig for a 10 x 12 rain and shade awning made from pvc and emt that attaches to the trailer top with bungee cords. The whole trailer took two weeks to build and about $200 out of pocket expense. I was fortunate to have a donated trailer and access to a good supply of surplus and salvaged building materials.

I already have a trailer for the next build salvaged from a 7 x 12 pop-up. I'll probably save that rather than cutting it down for the TD. This one will be mainly for sleeping and snacks and the focus will be on light weight and good aerodynamics. I expect to visit a number of old Army buddies and distant relatives along the way and look to them for showers and hot meals rather than a lot of camping out.

I've owned a pop-up and tents in the past but really preferred a hammock and rain fly. My shift to TD and TTT is for the convenience of having all my gear packed and ready to go and for minimal set-up on arrival.

M C Toyer

I see that some include their tow vehicles in the signature block. I haven't set that up yet nor an avatar but for those interested I have a 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac 4 x 4. I will use my 2012 Kia Sportage for the TD.

[Vedette]

Welcome to the Forum.
Two to build? That is what I planned last summer when I started my build, but it has got a little out off control.
Good Roads
Brian & Sandi

[M C Toyer]

Brian and Sandi -

Thanks for the welcome.

I'm just starting to post some build photos in a separate thread and you'll see mine was pretty simple and straightforward construction - all 90 degree angles.

I had viewed your album a couple of days ago. Really looking forward to seeing it progress. My thinking for my TD would be to mimic the shape of my KIA but body work is way beyond my capabilities. I am going to try to match the side profile and to some extent the squared off rear but don't have any clue how to taper the nose.

I did see another build, by Arne I think, where he had done that with plywood, but don't recall if it was to be skinned with metal or fiberglass or painted. I'll be watching his progress also.

M C

[Fishingtomatoseed]

Welcome,

You might look at aggie79 http://tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?t=26988 He has a good build from around here in Texas. I love Ray Roberts for all the things it offers. Good luck on your build.

[aggie79]

Welcome MC!

Glad to have you on board and hope to see you at LCG.

[wolgie]

Hey MC, welcome. I just started mine a few weeks ago. And now I am starting to rattle around ideas on a second one. Don't go toward the light, leave now before it's too late. JK.. I'm down here in the Grapevine area, I know Ray Roberts well. Good luck, I'll keep an eye out for your next build.

[M C Toyer]

Thanks -

I had already browsed your build thread. My second project was going to be somewhat along those lines with some influence from the sherpherds' wagons I remember from visiting my grandparents in Idaho when I was a kid.

Lived in Grapevine from 60 - 83 and still have family there.

M C

[wolgie]

Cool, I actually have family in pp. well in-laws I guess I'll claim them.

[M C Toyer]

To Clint and Tom -

Thanks for the welcome.

I've read through both of your build threads. Lots of inspiration and good ideas.

M C