I've bought a used 8 x 5 steel trailer with a light (bar only) cage to carry my windsurfing gear in. I've also bought used prepainted thin sheet metal to cover it with. I'm planning to modify the frame to extend the front out to the spare wheel crossbar and make a shallow A frame to support the roof. I'll pop rivet the sheet metal to the frame and use silastic to stop rattles. I don't have a way of bending the sheet metal so am planning to buy corner strips instead.

Do you have any tips on the build - doors, rack construction etc that would help?
Should I include some vents and/or insulation to stop the boards and gear cooking?
I'm also keen to see photos of similar trailers please.

I'm trying to avoid re-inventing the wheel.....

Many thanks,

Greg.

Plenty of previous posts here on Seabreeze. ( Mr Google is your friend).
Here is mine. www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/General/Trailer-in-Australia?page=1
I used composite panel ( Plastic sandwiched between thin aluminium sheets. Comes in various length and width's ). Can be bent, light, good insulated properties and cheap compared to say Colourbond flat sheet. Sheets are stuck on using 3M VHB Tape as used in the automotive industry. Rivets vibrate loose over time and looks ugly. Finished off with trim angle.
Back door is made of Security Door frame with composite panel insert. Door frame is a Security Door Short Leg Jamb Adaptor. Makes a waterproof seal. Door pivots up supported by two gas struts and locked with a T Lock. Used a Muller air bent as well.

+1 to Aluminium Composite Panel on the roof, otherwise the uppermost gear will get very very hot under the un-insulated COLORBOND steel re-radiating heat that it absorbs from the sun.

I did a lift-off box on an 8x5 box trailer just like you. Here's my write up:
www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/General/Not-another--my-custom-windsurfing-trailer-build--topic-

Id using the sheet, definitley get it professionally bent. Any sheetmetal place will do it in 5mins and charge very little
If the join is at the peak of the roof, get a vee strip cut to silicone on also. (Whats the proper name for that flashing?)

Use Sikaflex not normal silicone and don't rivet

Its not too hot with vents, face to rear and little lip around them so water doesn't run in. Iv'e got two in the roof and one in each side and it stays same as the car temp - ish

This is what I want. 3.0x1.5x1.5. Roof panel 2.4x1.5. Rear access door will be lift up and a door on passenger side but no big window. Getting priced up.

Got one for sale dave but prob too heavy duty for what you need.
Built and over engineered by my father in law
With off road suspension and wheels/tires.

Select to expand quote

BSN101 said..
This is what I want. 3.0x1.5x1.5. Roof panel 2.4x1.5. Rear access door will be lift up and a door on passenger side but no big window. Getting priced up.

I like it. That's a great idea.

Thanks for all the tips. I'll definitely use an insulated sheet for the roof. I have a smaller trailer for other use so will skip the lift-off option to keep it simple.

cheers,

Greg

Thanks for all the tips. I'll definitely use an insulated sheet for the roof. I have a smaller trailer for other use so will skip the lift-off option to keep it simple.

cheers,

Greg

Select to expand quote

BSN101 said..
This is what I want. 3.0x1.5x1.5. Roof panel 2.4x1.5. Rear access door will be lift up and a door on passenger side but no big window. Getting priced up.

Dave, if you're going for something like this, have a second thought about the ramp. Mine has the ramp and I really wish it had the overhead hinged panel door. Not only is it lighter but it gives you some shade too. If you want to carry the occasional motorbike, get some cheap ramps from SuperCrap Auto (or similar).

Select to expand quote

Tony Wills said..

BSN101 said..
This is what I want. 3.0x1.5x1.5. Roof panel 2.4x1.5. Rear access door will be lift up and a door on passenger side but no big window. Getting priced up.

Dave, if you're going for something like this, have a second thought about the ramp. Mine has the ramp and I really wish it had the overhead hinged panel door. Not only is it lighter but it gives you some shade too. If you want to carry the occasional motorbike, get some cheap ramps from SuperCrap Auto (or similar).

Yep defo a top hinged door on struts. I had ramps for my motor bike in my other box trailer. Most second hand trailers like this are dual axles. I'm going for a light load so won't consider them. might have rack on roof. Longer draw bar & spare or tool box mounted. So many options.

need pics!

I've added a water tank under it and a 12v pump to wash my gear off. Also some LED lights inside. Actually it's always a work in progress adding more things as time goes by. Started life as a Kart trailer and adapted as necessary.
Cheers
Marty