trailer build

[spookypt]

Deano, I went down this track some time ago. I owned already a USA built Featherlite all alloy trailer flat bed and went about extending it and enclosing it in aluminium honeycombed panels. My lessons learned in general were:

- Over 2.4 metres width the honeycomb panel bows so you need some reinforcing ribs to eliminate sag.
- Put some extraction scuppers to the rear roof to suck out fumes etc.
- Make the front V shaped as it seems to keep the trailer channelling straight when buffeted by side wind.
- I ran to an internal height of 1.6m (1.9m overall) so as it can be parked in residential garages if needed. Its 6.3m x 2.43m x 1.9m so it fits in a standard garage. But unless your short you can't stand tall I in it!
- Put the axles slightly aft.
- Build a removable tire rack and make it sit over the cars bonnet. Don't put it all the way to the front as it creates too much unnecessary ball weight.
- Put in opening roof vents (above your head where you sleep) as they get stuffy and smelly.
- Run proper load rated truck tyres NEW not re-treads.
- Overhead storage is a must and works well.
- I have ramps under the trailer but using the door as the ramp would have been better. I have 2 sets so when I load the car at home I don't have to use the ones already under the trailer.
- Put carpet in it as its much nicer sleeping in/on carpet.
- Weld a nut (Same size as your cars wheel nuts) for me 19mm, to your jockey wheel and then you can raise and lower your trailer with your wheel gun. So quick.
- Don' run any stickers (I know you love stickers) as it keeps people guessing as to what's inside and attracts less unwanted attention.
- Strap all 4 wheels independently and don't leave your winch attached when travelling. I faulty solenoid will run your winch and pull the front off your car, potentially. Have at least 1 dead tie off point with chain on top of your 4 wheel straps.

I run power feed off my F truck to charge the battery while underway and have on board winch and lighting.

Lastly, make sure your tie downs compliment your cobras wheel base and have the trailer well balanced. It makes towing so much easier and nicer. Oh and of course tow it with something capable.

I'd essentially sold mine as I wanted something bigger but for the amount of sleep overs I do the numbers didn't stack up.

Looking forward to your build pics....

Spookypt