Truck Bed Trailer Project

[disciplerocks]

Well I borrowed my mom's trailer to move a few months ago and ever since then it has been at my house and I keep finding uses for it. I also was in the market for a 2wd Ranger for a project and also so I could haul stuff. Well I have decided to wait a while on the Ranger since work has slowed down and I shouldn't spend the money on it. So I came across a Ranger bed on CL for $100 and decided to go for it. And after some constructive criticism from some of you guys on here, I decided to go with 2" square tube for the main frame, and use some left over HREW tube for the braces.

Here it is on my mom's trailer
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0038.jpg

And some work on the frame
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0043.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0044.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0050.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0051.jpg

And here it is sitting on it with bolts loosely attached to keep it in line
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0052.jpg

I must say my welds are getting much better
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0049.jpg

And here is an idea of what I am trying to accomplish
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/wmdsc00835.jpg

[59bisquik]

Thats a good start on your trailer. I toyed with the idea of using a Ranger bod for my trailer too. But they are hard to find around here. Instead, I am building one like this...
http://www.wildyoats.com/images/trailer/trailer%20048.jpg

[RollinWOT]

Looks good disciple. Any plans on using taillights in it for night use or just gonna leave it as a hauler?

[disciplerocks]

I'll pick up some Ranger taillights, but only for brake/turn lights to keep it street legal.

[bilzy7]

I love having projects to do. Been steadily sealing off ever crack in my house as it's summer and it's human vs ant season. Lol
I'd love to have a trailer with an axle and bed fro
Ranger. I'd prefer a cut in half truck to play with but yours looks good.

[disciplerocks]

Mock up of the A frame. It is going to be about a foot shorter for a total length of 4'. The blue thing is going to be a short piece of square tube for the receiver to mount to.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_053.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_054.jpg

[59bisquik]

Gonna use a ball, pintle or max coupler hitch?

[disciplerocks]

Planned on just a ball for now.

[59bisquik]

I planned on using the max coupler since mine will be used primarily offroad.

[disciplerocks]

I'm not really sure the differences, but I do like slo-vo's swivel he has on his. I just don't think I will need it.

[4.0B2]

max coupler is great if you can afford it, and plan on using it for some good offroad stuff.
i plan on building a trailer also, but more like http://i1234.photobucket.com/albums/ff412/88Bronco2/canadian_m101_m416_trailers_06.gif b/c of hauling a 4wheeler... and don't really car for the bed trailers (unless pulled off properly, which i don't feel like doing... lol)

[disciplerocks]

Probably do something like this so I can change it later, and so other people can use it if needed.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/ry3D400.jpg

[bilzy7]

looks good cant wait to see it done.

[59bisquik]

max coupler is great if you can afford it
Pffffttt....pay $250 for a coupler I can make? I think not...I like its design, but I will make my own!
:icon_thumby:

[Scrambler82]

Nice work and good looking trailer.

You said you only wanted Brake and turn signals in your tail lights but a good set of Backup lights that work as normal or can be turned on manually are a plus.

When backing up with the trailer the truck’s BU Light are always getting blocked and you can’t see as well as you would like.

Nice work.

[disciplerocks]

I was also thinking it would be cool to add a factory gas tank for some extra fuel storage.

[Scrambler82]

IMHO… the trail might take more abuse than the truck.
How about an extra gas can or two on the front.
Maybe a water can too.

I like the topper, how about having a fold out topper with tent attached ?

[disciplerocks]

It won't be going down any trails with me. And the person I got it from has a matching fiberglass top for it. I told him if he still had it when this is finished, I'd get it from him.

[disciplerocks]

And the B2 doesn't even have reverse lights

[Ranger Kip]

I was thinking of doing this to my rusting bed off my 84, either that, or just cutting off the outside fenders and using the sheetmetal to make some quick wheel well fenders. Just gonna use a hammer, light torch, and something round.

[4.0B2]

Well the B2 doesn't even have reverse lights

umm why not? mine does.... :thefinger:

i like the jerry can idea more than the underside tank. you'd need a pump or something to be able to pump it out. if you do this, make sure you put a good skid on it.

[disciplerocks]

Have these. Could make a double pivot joint.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_057.jpg

Trying to use what I got. Thankfully I have my stock rear bumper and this spare 8.8. Rims came off the donor Explorer.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_055.jpg

Will be using those tires for the now, but will have these 32s put on later.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_056.jpg

Only thing I really need are tail lights, tailgate, and some leaf springs, but I am supposed to be getting a set of FSB leafs tomorrow for $20.

[86 slo-vo]

Pffffttt....pay $250 for a coupler I can make? I think not...I like its design, but I will make my own!
:icon_thumby:


exactly, way to pricey for something pretty simple.

here's mine.
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l106/jonhagan490/94%20ranger/565c852e.jpg
http://i94.photobucket.com/albums/l106/jonhagan490/94%20ranger/19e81fa8.jpg

Have these. Could make a double pivot joint.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_057.jpg

Trying to use what I got. Thankfully I have my stock rear bumper and this spare 8.8. Rims came off the donor Explorer.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_055.jpg

Will be using those tires for the now, but will have these 32s put on later.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_056.jpg

Only thing I really need are tail lights, tailgate, and some leaf springs, but I am supposed to be getting a set of FSB leafs tomorrow for $20.

youll need some way for it to spin if you do it with that setup.

also i wouldnt put a b2 tank in the back, with a trailer and a small truck you have to keep an eye on your tongue weight cant be too heavy or too light or youll have alot of problems. a full tank of fuel in the back and the trailer will be all over the road. its all a balancing game.

i would run some gussets in the corners or run some X's on the frame

[disciplerocks]

Its kinda hard to explain what I was thinking with the pivot. How did you do yours?

[86 slo-vo]

2x2 1/4 inch with 1/4 welded on the end with a 5/8 grade 8 bolt through the center with a washer at all points to spin on.

with yours being heavier i would go with a pintle setup

[disciplerocks]

Yeah I was looking at those. Maybe later down the road. For now I am just going with a ball if I can ever find a 2 3/4 coupler.

[86 slo-vo]

a ball will work fine if your staying on the road, but with the bell you really need to watch the tongue weight. would suck for the coupler to slip over the ball chains or not its gunna be a wild ride.

i would say your going to need 200-250lb on the ball, possibly more depending on how much the whole thing weighs.

[disciplerocks]

I dont see it weighing that much empty, but I really don't know anything about it. I'll weigh it once its on its own wheels.

[disciplerocks]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_058.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAGE_060.jpg

[disciplerocks]

Think I have an idea for an off road hitch. Gonna see if I can get a hold of the parts pretty cheap.

[railman]

at least ya now have a completion date to shoot for :icon_thumby:

l8r, John

[86 slo-vo]

its going to be heavier then you think with a full axle and bed along with a camper shell and whatever you load it with, mine is just under 1K and id say youll end up at 1500-1600lb's

[disciplerocks]

Yeah I knew that, I meant the tongue weight.

[disciplerocks]

This is what I am going to try to build.
http://www.sierra4x4trailers.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/sep-2010.jpg

[RangerSVT]

Looks good, Dustin. Can you get that last pic a little bigger?? I can't see it real well... :D
SVT

[disciplerocks]

Lol I copied and pasted it with my phone. Couldn't really resize it.

Think I am going to use a leaf spring eye and part of the flat stock for the mounting tab. and the other piece I'll either make, or use the female side of a u joint from possibly a tractor for the smaller shaft size.

Thoughts, suggestions?

[strvger]

think i'd just go with a pintle hitch and a lunnette eye (tow ring) on the trailer...
but that's just me.

[RangerSVT]

Yep, take 2 leaf spring eyes and weld them 90* from each other, this will give you the double swivel that Jon was talking about, then all you have to do is make the piece that slides into the receiver and another on the trailer end to accept the other end of the swivel...
SVT

[snoranger]

I've read alot about the Max coupler, Lock-n-roll, Etc over on expedition portal. The guys there have a problem bending them off-road when they get into a jack-knife situation and have to back up. Do a little research on it here:

http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=42

[88_Eddie]

well it's no tree house build, but it'll work i guess lol

looks good man. those welds are NICE too, i cant believe you're able to do that with that welder. i used to have the same one and hated it.

def get the camper top too, you could use that for all sorts of things

[disciplerocks]

Thanks. Yeah I dont see me bending it. It aint going down any trails. Just want it to be able to perform if the need arises.

[koda6966]

Right click on the huge image and click "view image" it will resize it to your browser.

I use that when those people post the 2321391938901x290781037923 sized images.

[bilzy7]

Lol I post that size sometimes as my phones set to 2100+ x like 1900 somethin.

[disciplerocks]

Here is what I have so far. There will be a hole in the leaf spring end and attach to the shackle in front of it. That takes care of the side to side and up and down.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0063.jpg

For the pivot, I will be doing something like this with the tube in the above picture.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/hitch141.jpg

[4.0B2]

nice hitch setup... it's gonna be nice.

[disciplerocks]

Thanks. I hope it works like I am thinking.



Mock up.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0065.jpg

Toying with what I want to do with the dead space.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0066.jpg

[86 slo-vo]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0063.jpg



i would go with some heavier materials, i cant see the leafspring piece lasting long.

[disciplerocks]

It aint no dinky one. But I'll keep an eye on it. I had another idea, but its pretty much like yours and I didn't want to copy it.

[86 slo-vo]

copy away if you want, just dont wanna see a trailer running down the highway with a B2 in pursuit.

[disciplerocks]

Lol We'll see how this turns out.

[snoranger]

i would go with some heavier materials, i cant see the leafspring piece lasting long.

I gotta agree with slo-vo. That looks awful light for what it will be used for. You'd be surprised how much force is really exerted on a hitch.



http://cnynrat.smugmug.com/Adventure-Vehicles/FJ/2010-Maze-Trip-254-Hitch-from/1083643122_NkunE-M.jpg

This happened on a recent trip to the Maze. Pretty sure this happened in Teapot canyon where there is a very tight turn that few vehicles can make without backing. At the same time you are also dealing with some 10-12" rocks, and you are sort of turning through the bottom of a small wash. Pretty sure this happened when we backed up, jackknifing the trailer to make the turn. It was all done at a snail's pace, so speed was definitely not a factor.

We took the hitch off and tried to straighten the bent ear with a 5# sledge hammer - we could not make it budge.

[bilzy7]

My imagination went wild picturing a bronco 2 chasing down a trailer.

[RangerSVT]

Dustin, where your level is at, I would take and cut a fish plate to cover both the top and bottom of the A frame joint...And if you are gonna use the plate from the leaf spring eyelet, I would take and build the material up to at least 5/8 thick that connects to the square tubing, might want to gusset both sides of the plate as well just for extra insurance...Remember, over build it and you won't have to worry about it :icon_thumby:
SVT

[disciplerocks]

I really wasn't worried about the leaf, I was more worried about the channel its gonna sit in. Its rated at 5k, but I was going to gusset it. The hitch I am using is rated at 10k. Not sure how I could gusset the leaf.

[RangerSVT]

Not sure how I could gusset the leaf.

I would gusset it on both sides, like turning it into an I-beam...
SVT

[disciplerocks]

I could do that, but I'd have to cut it down about 1/2" more.

[RangerSVT]

What about cutting the "tail" off completely and welding 2" tubing to it??
SVT

[disciplerocks]

I was trying to keep the number of welds on the hitch itself at a minimum.

[disciplerocks]

Not much to report today. Pulled the bed off the frame to make permanent leaf spring brackets and to paint it. Only got 2 brackets done. Hope to get the other 2 on and the frame painted tomorrow.

[disciplerocks]

Front leaf brackets done. Didn't get to start on the rear ones, but I did get the frame painted.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0068.jpg

[Bennybooster]

I would mebbe add a couple of triangles to the frame section

[disciplerocks]

I thought about it. Gotta see what I have left once everything is complete.

[RangerSVT]

Because the bed has 6 points of attachment to the frame, I wouldn't bother with X-bracing the frame, but I would X-brace/cross-brace the tongue/A-frame...Looks great so far Dustin :icon_thumby:
SVT

[disciplerocks]

Sounds good. And I also wanted more strength on the tongue. I planed on making a V from the middle of the bed outward. I wont do it until I have her together though because I want my spare to sit there and I need to build around that. Dont think I will have enough square or round tube left so my plan is to make some square tube out of 1" angle.

[RangerSVT]

You won't need to "make" square tubing out of angle, but when you put them in, position the angle where its laying down like a triangle ( /\ , not I_ or _I ) This will give you the lateral strength you need for bracing, since this is all you are trying to accomplish. (Round tubing can be used as well) This will also save you on material so you don't have to "double up" on the angle...
SVT

[disciplerocks]

Just wanted to make sure it held.

[disciplerocks]

Got the rear brackets 95% done and ran out of wire. Went ahead and threw the bed back on the frame. I can finish the rest with the bed on it. Got it on and the damn thing has Ranger lean! Front driver corner is about 3/4in lower than the rest.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0069.jpg

[Boggin]

looks good bud. you gonna brace the shackles ?

[disciplerocks]

I don't know yet. I thought about it, but they are made to run like that.

[azbronco2]

I always wanted to build one but I want to mount a tent to the top like one of those jeep trailers they want 7 grand for

[59bisquik]

My master plan was to add a tent to mine once completed.

[disciplerocks]

That would be something I will consider if I don't end up with the topper.

[-Nathan-]

just get a truck tent for it like i have.
http://i111.photobucket.com/albums/n123/nshamilton/IMG00150-20100602-1553.jpg

[disciplerocks]

Well I am going back to square one for the hitch. I just can't get things to clear like I need without taking more support off than I would like.

[disciplerocks]

Some work on the under side
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0071.jpg

Got a little creative flipping it
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0072.jpg

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0073.jpg

Mock up. Gonna hack one the brackets off the top one, then gusset it. The ball coupler will sit on the bottom channel and be removable. Think I am going to weld some 2" angle to either side of the top piece so it will also be removable.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0074.jpg

[disciplerocks]

Need to build a top piece for the rear pin, but you get the idea. Sorry for copying your idea slo-vo, but thanks.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0075.jpg

[disciplerocks]

Knowing now how I am doing it, I see I should have bought another receiver tube for the top. Would have made it easier to build and remove. Oh well.

[Boggin]

not really under standing whats happening there

[disciplerocks]

I'll post better pics of function after its done.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0076.jpg

And started on the truck side of the hitch.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0077.jpg

[RangerSVT]

Dustin, don't forget to set your pinion angle!! Did you figure out a parking brake for the trailer?? Looks good, keep it up :icon_thumby:
SVT

[Boggin]

yeah, I was thinking maybe an ARB or detriot too.








































lol.

[RangerSVT]

It's welded!!
SVT

[disciplerocks]

Its not welded, its a L/S!

[disciplerocks]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0079.jpg

[disciplerocks]

As you can see I picked up a set of tail lights and a tailgate today. There's a spot of rust on it, but it was the only one that wasn't smashed in and its a 1st gen which is what I was looking for. Got everything tightened down and hooked it up. Pay no attention to the crap on top of the B2. Need to make a run to the scrapper.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0080.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0082.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0083.jpg

Still a few things to finish to make it road worthy. Swivel needs trimmed and reinforced, "A" frame needs braced, wiring needs finished.

Still debating on whether I want to put the stock B2 bumper on it. It doesn't need one. I just wanted a place for the plate, but I think fabbing brackets might be too much work for just that.

[88_Eddie]

looks good



http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0080.jpg


i have no idea what's going on there

[Bray D]

from left to right: the 'vertical U' shaped piece attached to the hitch on the truck allows up and down rotation of the trailer, the pin connection to the 'horizontal U' shaped piece allows the trailer to articulate (drivers side tire higher than the passenger side tire), and the pin from the 'horizontal U' shaped piece to the trailer hitch allows the trailer to turn (jack-knife if you will).

It allows for all of the degrees of freedom as a ball hitch, but opens up a larger range of motion.

That being said, there's gotta be a simpler way to do it. lol

[disciplerocks]

The reason it is so complicated is because I want to be able to remove it all easily and throw a ball coupler on it if needed.

[88_Eddie]

oh ok, still looks awesome. nice work

[Boggin]

im convinced. its trailer building time. gonna see what i can come up with using parts around the garage like a 7.5 axle, leaf springs, leaf perches. a whole lot of steel from the shop down the road, a 1st gen ranger tailgate and 79 for tail lights.
look what you got me into now dustin

[86 slo-vo]

The reason it is so complicated is because I want to be able to remove it all easily and throw a ball coupler on it if needed.

i would just go to a pintle setup. much safer and stronger and can be had for $50-75

[disciplerocks]

All the ones I seen were $100-$125 for both pieces.

[86 slo-vo]

but this...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Trailer-Coupler-Adjustable-Pintle-Tow-Ring-w-Bracket-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem256362d53eQQitemZ16058 1211454QQptZMotorsQ5fRVQ5fTrailerQ5fCamperQ5fParts Q5fAccessories

and i have a pintle reciever you can have

[shane96ranger]

Wow, that looks a lot like mine. Your bed is in better shape though. I dig it man!

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0083.jpg

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab233/shanedyches/My%20Ranger/1022001010.jpg

http://i867.photobucket.com/albums/ab233/shanedyches/My%20Ranger/truckandtrailer.jpg

[ranger_mclaren]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0080.jpg


Looks good, but I just don't see that bolt holding up to well. exspecially the the trailer weighed down and swiveling. Now If i'm looking at that right you have it set up so you can use different hitch points but the swivel is for offroad use correct?

[disciplerocks]

Exactly

[koda6966]

Once you get it on the road let me know how it handles. I'm debating if I want to build one of these or just go get a dime-a-dozen tractor supply trailer.

I wouldn't ever need to take mine offroad, so clearance isn't an issue. I just like the look of these.

I would of course make mine with a removable bed (not sure if yours is) so I can rock an S10 bed for now and bolt on a Ranger bed once I get my good truck back on the road.

Although I might go fullsize, who knows.

[Ranger Kip]

I'd replace that bolt with a 1/2" or 3/4" rod with a lock pin through it, heck, I'd even go up to a 1" rod, but thats me saying I carry a large load. I wouldn't trust that trailer on the highway if it had a small cooler in it.

Actually, replace that entire connection between the hitch reciever and the trailer bolt, you need something thicker of a gauge and I see a large potential for it becoming mangled when going over an offroad 'hilly' area. Dont quote me on that last part though.

[disciplerocks]

Which bolt are you talking about? And why would I replace a grade 8 bolt with a pin?

[disciplerocks]

I would of course make mine with a removable bed (not sure if yours is) so I can rock an S10 bed for now and bolt on a Ranger bed once I get my good truck back on the road.

Its removable in a sense. 6 bolts and its off. I have had it on and off the frame a handful of times already just checking things in the building process.

[azbronco2]

Looks good!

[Ranger Kip]

Which bolt are you talking about? And why would I replace a grade 8 bolt with a pin?

I have seen taffy machines pull a grade 8 bolt in half from the turning cycle with a 20 horse electric motor. Its not fun to watch, and it wont happen here (no motor :icon_rofl:).

But think about it, a small diameter bolt, with a HUGE trailer, connected to a HUGE Bronco II... (size in comparison). Think about using a steel rod with a pin or something.

Not saying the pin wont have a chance to bend (like to see if it does, cause it would only be like 3" or 4" long), but the bolt is too small for the size of the trailer, you either need a large diameter bolt, or a new system, cause thats a lot of load to go onto a bolt.

[disciplerocks]

You know the tensile strength of a 5/8" grade 8 bolt is over 30k lbs? Not saying it won't break, just that it should be fine. But like stated before, It will only be used off road and it will have safety chains too.

[disciplerocks]

Make more sense now?
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0084.jpg

[4.0B2]

i like the complicated set up shown above......lol


ah okay. so its set up for both. thats cool..

[88_Eddie]

i get it!!! i think i've seen that setup somewhere, not sure where though lol

[Il Brutto]

Love the trailer, I had the same idea, making the trailer look like the truck, same paint and wheels. I want to make mine a little camper for car show camping.

[RavoHimself]

so you tow it with the ball and wheel with the homemade hitch? i like it

[SAY789]

Just thought of something. if your going to use the trailer for camping also, you could mount an alternator to drive with a v belt off the pinion to keep spare batterys charged. Be kinda cool to mount some lights and etc and have it all self sustained or a good backup incase your kill the battery in your b2.

Trailers looking good

[4.0B2]

or you could charge from the alternator in the b2..

but his idea is cooler lol

[disciplerocks]

Wow I really like that idea!

[RangerSVT]

You would have to travel at highway speeds to spin the altenator fast enough to charge (or put 513's in the axle to make the pinion spin faster)
SVT

[disciplerocks]

But it will be on the highway there and back. I probably wont work on that before the first trip in a couple weeks, but it will definitly be on the list to do.

[4.0B2]

its a really cool idea.. i just don't know if its worth it or not..IMO. i'd rather just leave a trinkle charge on it all the time i was home. or charge it from the towing rig. but those options don't have the flair that the trailer having its own alternator does lol

[azbronco2]

you guys are getting a little to carried away lol

[Ranger Kip]

Okay, thats good, nice to know we are on the same page then. My concern was that the bolt will bent and just stress and break off, but thats something that wont happen overnight.

The other hitch was a good idea, nice touch, I might steal the idea, except I have an old wheelhub bearing Im gonna use mine.

[snoranger]

You would have to travel at highway speeds to spin the altenator fast enough to charge (or put 513's in the axle to make the pinion spin faster)
SVT

Thats why pulleys come in different sizes. You can spin the alt at whatever RPM you want at any speed with the right pulleys.

You can even rig up an A/C compressor clutch to turn it off if your at high speeds that will over rev the Alt.

[SAY789]

^ ^ ^ ^ Exactly why i said pulleys you can put a big pulley on the diff and a small one on the alt to achieve this. Over reving imo shouldnt be too bad for it just as long as you use a voltage reg to not burn it up. Plus you could have a spare alt for those emergency times

[88_Eddie]

a spare battery charger. that'd be awesome.

[86 slo-vo]

id just charge from the rig, thats what im doing on mine.

[disciplerocks]

She is officially street legal. Wiring finished, safety chains on, and I got my 30 day permit until I can get an ID number to file for a title, then I can file for plates.

[86 slo-vo]

She is officially street legal. Wiring finished, safety chains on, and I got my 30 day permit until I can get an ID number to file for a title, then I can file for plates.

you have to get plates for a trailer in indiana?

[disciplerocks]

Yup, but I can't get em without a title. And I can't get a title without an ID number and a visual inspection from a police officer.

[86 slo-vo]

that sucks, nothing here of any sort.

[disciplerocks]

Yeah, but all that is just cause its home built. Otherwise I could just go get a plate.

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Here we can register a homebuilt (ubuilt they call them here) with a rating of 3500lbs without any inspections, you just go in and pay for insurance and get a plate.

[4.0B2]

i love my homemade trailer tag.. costs $9.65 a year... lol
we didn't have to have ours inspected or anything. then again- even if i was suppose to, they guy we deal w/ probably wouldn't have lol

[ranger_mclaren]

sounds like a lot of work but is worth it. I really glad there isn't any inspection stuff that goes on here but tags are required but I think it has to be over a certin weight to have tags.

[disciplerocks]

Wow I'm glad I don't have to get insurance on it. But this is all a one time thing. From here on all I will need to do is renew the tags.

[ForOffRoadDriving]

in michigan a home made trailer needs to be weighed after construction but it does not need to be inspected. once you have the weight you have to go to the secretary of state and apply for a homemade trailer title, then you have to buy a permanent plate (cost $65 if i remember right) but then youre good to go until they come up with another way to make money on the liscensing process. its kind of nice because i have a homemade boat trailer that i made from a pop up camper and i have a homemade dirt bike trailer that i made out of a boat trailer (ironic i know) and they both weigh roughly the same so i just bought 1 plate and switch them back and forth. theres no need to worry about tags because the plates are permanent, but they cost $65 vs like $12 for a new tag.

[Robert_1967]

I think here in Tennessee, the only time a trailer needs plates is if it is took out of state, I know 4 people with bought trailers and none of them have plates, and I have seen home made ones with no plates also.

If I had a trailer (suppose to get one in a few weeks) I would have plates on it just so it was in my name and if stolen I could prove it was mine.

also for your tongue weight problem, add a tool box and one of the little spare tire winches from a explorer, and mount that under the a tool box off the tongue, as high as the trailer sits, it should be ok.



Robert

[forzda]

A very good trailer , well done . Now all you need is to add an electric hydrolic dump system,then you have a dump bed when you need it

[disciplerocks]

Thanks. Don't plan on making it tilt. If I did, I would have incorporated it into the frame when building it.

[forzda]

Thanks. Don't plan on making it tilt. If I did, I would have incorporated it into the frame when building it.
I figured you would have built it in when you made it, still having a dump trailer would be handy sometimes . For what you have planed this build is perfect

[ranger_mclaren]

in michigan a home made trailer needs to be weighed after construction but it does not need to be inspected. once you have the weight you have to go to the secretary of state and apply for a homemade trailer title, then you have to buy a permanent plate (cost $65 if i remember right) but then youre good to go until they come up with another way to make money on the liscensing process. its kind of nice because i have a homemade boat trailer that i made from a pop up camper and i have a homemade dirt bike trailer that i made out of a boat trailer (ironic i know) and they both weigh roughly the same so i just bought 1 plate and switch them back and forth. theres no need to worry about tags because the plates are permanent, but they cost $65 vs like $12 for a new tag.

Yeah thats what you do here too. That explains it better. I've never built one one a frind of mine does and between him and his dad they have a couple he's told me about the process but I couldn't remember.

[disciplerocks]

Did a little bracing. Also made an attempt to hand mount the 32s. Didn't end well. I put a screwdriver through the sidewall after working on it for 1.5 hours. All in attempt to save myself $20.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0001.jpg

[86 slo-vo]

there's a trick to mounting by hand...i cussed at one of the 33's for an hour and couldnt get it. texted greg a picture, he said flip the wheel over. 30 minutes later i was mounting all 5 on the truck. went easy once i had it right.

[disciplerocks]

Ok I decided to try again today. Traded the screwdrivers for something with a bit more leverage.

Leaf springs
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0005.jpg


Was a piece of cake after that. Dismounted one, mounted 3 in a little over a half hour.

I think 32s are the perfect size for the trailer.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0013-1.jpg

[ranger_mclaren]

I hope you had fun with the starter fluid and a lighter trick LOL. 31s is the biggest i've ever mounted by hand but I had help and it took us prolly 15 mins a wheel with crowbars and bodyweight. For some reason tires never look as big as what they really are over the computer I had 32s on my old ranger. but if you asked me I would guess the trailer had 31s and your BII had 33s.

[disciplerocks]

Well leaf springs and a high lift....



And no I have 4 air compressors so no starter fluid and lighter bullshit. I'm not that dumb.

[azbronco2]

looks good

[SAY789]

Harbor freight sells tire spoons for 8 bucks a piece. Thats what i did. Ill have to post up a pic of my homebuilt tire disomount machine i made in 15 min one day when i was bored. Try spooning a 44, no bueno lol

[Robert_1967]

I use to have to break down 11r24.5 all day, and those two spoons where my best friends, plus the tire cage, it was a really good friend also, saved my life one day.


But yep, trailer looks good, I need to build me one when I get my Ranger Finished, but it is going to be a lowered one.



Robert

[RangerSVT]

Try mounting seven 37" Iroks on 15" rims with a pair of screwdrivers :icon_surprised: Dustin, so when your gonna color-match the bed to the B2??
SVT

[RangerSVT]

This is got my thinking of a bed trailer project....Maybe I need to start collecting parts...Hmm.....:icon_idea:
SVT

[railman]

This is got my thinking of a bed trailer project....Maybe I need to start collecting parts...Hmm.....:icon_idea:
SVT

you have enough collected......











like a certain lowered Ranger......:D

l8r, John

[disciplerocks]

Hell yeah. Stepside trailer! And Rick, I mounted my 35" spare with screwdrivers.

I doubt I'll paint it before the trip, but it will be done soon enough.

[Boggin]

I use to have to break down 11r24.5 all day, and those two spoons where my best friends, plus the tire cage, it was a really good friend also, saved my life one day.


But yep, trailer looks good, I need to build me one when I get my Ranger Finished, but it is going to be a lowered one.



Robert
i work at a heavy equipment garage and this spring when alot of the trucks were getting their summer tires put on we've had about 5 tractor trailers and big rigs in the garage and there is only 3 mechanics including me, we spent the best part of an evening changing tires on all of them trucks by hand with just a couple crow bars. after that i never wanted to change another tire by hand again, its brutal

[Robert_1967]

Not to thread jack, but when I was driving truck, I had to come off the road for 3 months to save my CDL, I worked in the trailer garage for those 3 months on second shift, doing break jobs and changing tires, and mounting new rubber on the rims, my Boss at the time only bought 11r tires, no small tires and all the rims where 24.5, no 22.5, he preferred the taller tires on the truck, all I had to change the rubber was a special BFH, and those two spoons, and of course the tire cage, what a summer, I was happier then a long tail cat on a tuna fish boat when I got back out on the road.


Robert

[RangerSVT]

John, I don't have enough parts, and you know me, I'd be doing a one off trailer build. Might be a few months before I start that one though. what I have in mind I'd need at least 4 beds to cut up to use for the wanted angles and body lines, maybe even 6 beds and at least 2 tail gates....The design, well, thats a :secret: for now...
SVT

[disciplerocks]

I was going to get a big box to mount on the front and keep a battery in it, but I already had a battery box and my G-ma gave me this heavy duty tool box. Think I'll just mount the 2 on there instead. Threw together a basket for them also. What do you think?
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0046-1.jpg

[RangerSVT]

Lookin good :icon_thumby: Did you add that plate/brace to the A-frame??
SVT

[disciplerocks]

Go back one page

[RangerSVT]

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0001.jpg

I seen that, but I was refering to the front of the A frame, cutting a triangle out and putting it inside the tubing...
SVT

[88_Eddie]

you should see if you can score a diamond plate tool box off of c-list for cheap. i see them on there for $100 all the time

[disciplerocks]

I dont want to eliminate bed space.

[88_Eddie]

no, not for the bed, put it there in front of the bed

[disciplerocks]

That would be too heavy when filled up. Especially with a spare up there.

[86 slo-vo]

i would do expanded metal all the way up the A frame and do some sides up about 6 inches for storage for all the small stuff. wish i had room on mine to do it that way.

[disciplerocks]

Thats probably all the small storage I am gonna have. Still need to mount the spare and figure out what I am going to do about a kickstand/jack.

I did get the basket welded on and painted.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0048.jpg

[4.0B2]

you didn't use 1/4" for the storage area?? come on man... that thin stuff aint no good! lol j/k

[disciplerocks]

Mounted the spare with an internal B2 spare bracket. Its too small for the 32 so it leans. Not a fan, but it will do the job for now. Also mounted the battery box and toolbox.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0056.jpg

[ranger_mclaren]

You could always rig up the spare the way it originally sit on a ranger under the bed or maybe fab up a rear carrier that can swing out to open the tailgate. Just throwing those out there. Looks awesome so far man.

[ranger_mclaren]

Something like this and insted of a gas tank have a lockable box to hold your jack and stand.

http://www.brian894x4.com/tirecarrieropen.jpg

[Grey_04]

how about the spare tire carrier off the back of a b2?:icon_idea:

[Robert_1967]

I still say as high as the trailer sits, mount it under the battery/tool box using one of the little winches out from under a Explorer or Ranger.

All and all, it looks really good


Robert

[disciplerocks]

I thought about putting the spare on the tailgate, but its rear heavy when its empty as it is. I think I am going to use one of those winches under the tongue, but this will do for the upcoming trip. I have other stuff to work on before then.

[disciplerocks]

I am trying to get a rough estimate of the total weight. Did some Googleing and I can't find an exact figure on the bed, but it it seems to be around 300 lbs. I know I could move it around pretty easily by myself, just couldn't pick it up. The 8.8 weighs 175 lbs. Tires are going to weigh somewhere around 40 lbs a piece. The rims are 18 lbs each. I bought 24' of square tube and used about 22' of it. It weighs 73 lbs for 24'. Plus I have the leafs, about 6' of HREW tube, and some other random pieces which I'll say weigh about 50 lbs more. So my total comes to about 772 lbs with the spare on it.

[Robert_1967]

that's not bad, considering it probably hold more weight then a factory built one of the same size, and a factory one couldn't be pulled on the trails.




Robert

[ranger_mclaren]

Yea that sounds about right. I know I had a long bed on my ranger and I swaped it out for a rust free bed later and it only took me and one of my wifes girlfriends to lift it and remove it. By lifting from the wheel wells so I'd say it felt like 300 lbs. LOL

[86 slo-vo]

id guess the bed at 200lb's

[disciplerocks]

Ready for its first trip.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG0070.jpg

[railman]

looks good....can't wait to see it in person:icon_thumby:

don't forget to pack that inner passenger side axle shaft.....I have a bad feeling I may need it:dunno:

l8r, John

[ForOffRoadDriving]

i thought your tounge jack was sitting on an american flag for a second, but then i realized it was just a t shirt, haha! trailers looking good man!

[disciplerocks]

So last weekend I pulled the axle out of the trailer because railman was having some trouble with is axle and they were the same gearing. Finally got to throw his under the trailer today. But when I used his u bolts, they were too long and I had to use a 2" block. Now she looks funny. Way too tall. Going to lower the leaf shackles. Just not today. Its too hot to be outside.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG08541.jpg

[disciplerocks]

Also got curious and opened up the diff to see what was wrong.
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG08531.jpg
http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b152/grakk/IMAG08521.jpg

Looks like to me the teeth on one side were already sheared before it was welded.

[86 slo-vo]

well mother ****er...i guess the locker didnt take the weld very well.