another newdie

[cpowell243]

I am checking in for the first time after making the decision to build a Grumman2 using the Harbor Freight 4X8 1720 GVW trailer.
I've done many project but nothing quite like this, so I'm hoping the forum will help me gain form the experiences of others who have built similar trailers.
My base trailer is almost done - I abandoned the folding feature and used the cross members to permanently connect the 2 4' pieces together and strengthen the 8' run. I also plan to place the axle 38" from the rear to provide additional support for the galley. Make sense?
I found a piece of 4X10 pressure-treated plywood at Menard's, so what I'm thinking is this:
Build a 5X10 frame for the floor with 2X4's laying the 2x4's on edge (with 2X2's every 16" between the side rails), routing a 3/4" rabbit on the inside of the 2X4, laying the plywood inside of the frame to conceal the end grain of the plywood, then filling the 5 1/4" gaps along the each side with 1X6. Then thought I could add a 2x4 sole plate on the inside and attach the walls to the sole plate.
I think I'll stay with stock HB fenders since much of the fender should be concealed by the wooden box over the wheels, which I'm not sure how to build.
I am also a little confused about the best way to connect the floor and the walls, and how to build the box over the fenders.
Any suggestions.comments out there?

[Roly Nelson]

Hi Powell, welcome to the forum. I'm not sure what you plan to use as a hauler, but by your description of your planned floor construction, It sounds like it is gonna be kind of heavy down there. I have a 4 x 8 woody TD that I built 10 years ago, and it only has 2x2s bolted to the HF frame, with 3/8 plywood glued and screwed to them. Empty, it weighs just under 500 lbs, probably due to the fact that the walls and roof plywood is only 1/4" thick. I ran my side plywood down over the sides of the 2x2s that were bolted to the frame. Your build will be quite a bit bigger, and it seems you have some experience in this type of construction. It would be helpful if you could check with some of local builders and pick their brains. Good luck.
Roly ~~

[Junkboy999]

Hey Powell4

Welcome to the forums. Where are you at that has a Menard's. I bet you’ll like the sign hanging in my living room.

My little Teardrop is a HF trailer. It has two sheets of plywood as a floor and the side just glued and screw to them.
There is a piece of trim that cover the side to floor joint and half way down the frame. I did not build it just got it second hand.

[cpowell243]

Terry,
I'm in Casper, WY - do like the sign.
Charlie

[cpowell243]

Roly,
Thanks for feedback. Weight is a concern as I am hauling with a 4-cyl. Subaru. I'm hoping to keep weight down with limited cabinetry, 1/2" walls, and use of masonite covered by fiberglass for roof. Since yours is 4X8 I assume you did not have to deal with a wheel well to cover the fender (?)

[Junkboy999]

Powell4

If you check in Roly Nelson Signature block under his post you will get to a page that had his TD build. This
is one of this forums best example of a beautiful small 4x8 build that has a lot in a small package. Fold up
front cabinets and movable back cabinets to allow a small table to be set up in side. He made his Finders,
hubcaps, tow hitch and ball, license plate, drawer pulls.. ect.. ect.. all of wood

If you look at my signature block “ reworking Lil’ Wood , you see my little 4x8. Not the best example of the
most basic camper, but really bare bones as it can be. My fender are standard HF Fender. The trim wood
that cover the wall to trailer joint is notch cut out over the fender mount, and notched out for the reflectors
as well.

[cpowell243]

Thanks Terry,
I will check them both out. Part of my dilemma is adjusting design to 5' width and how to cover the fender with a wheel well.
Charlie Powell

[sagebrush]

Howdy neighbor. We are just around the corner and down the street from you in Casper We'll maybe get together and tell some lies or have a cuppajoe?

Will and Lisa

[cpowell243]

Will and Lisa,
Cool. I'm on Allyson Place (near 42nd and Arroyo). You have a tear?
Charlie Powell

[Vedette]

Welcome Charlie
We look forward to meeting you when we attend Walk in the Winds in August!
Good Roads
Brian & Sandi

[sagebrush]

Down the street and around 2 corners! Sent you a PM.

Will

[Junkboy999]

Charlie

Two new member in the forums had the same question about the fenders.

This guy is building up a platform to raise his sleeping deck. So he is build over the fenders.

Over the wheel RT Build


This guy has welded support on the side of his. not sure how he will do his fenders but you’ll see it soon I bet.

Wild Idahos Compact Build


Both looks like good build threads to watch.

[_Ryan_]

Terry,
I'm in Casper, WY - do like the sign.
Charlie

Hello Charlie,

I'm down in Cheyenne, and I know slowcowboy is down the road in Pavilion. Welcome to the best forum on the web from another Wyoming teardropper!

Cheers,
Ryan

[Rlowell]

Welcome aboard.

You will find the info you need in here if you are looking for info about the TNTTT.

Good luck on your build.

Rod

[nevadatear]

Welcome, i like the shape!