53' custom box trailer build

[Just_Build_It]

I've been wanting to build another trailer but longer and better than my first box trailer. This time around I'm going to change a lot of from the last one I built. Spread axle is on the board for changes and I'm thinking of an auto hauler kind of like monster truck and NASCAR trailers. A single rear fold down door/ramp. Which has me thinking I haven't planned this out very well because the deck needs to be lower? Especially if I want to be able to drive cars unto it. A 6" high deck isn't exactly ideal but I still want to be able to use the tamiya chassis that I have.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0830_1.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0830_1.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

Moving along. Cut the sides out. Still need some more cutting along the bottom portion and can't cut the wheelwells out until I spread the axles and get them into position. Then I'll be able to mark out where I want to drill for the lights.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0831.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0831.jpg.html)

[roadranger]

Car haulers have to be a low deck to drive in on, with smaller wheels/tires. Like the drop deck flatbed builds you see on here, for the chassis.
If your going to use a stock Tamiya frame rails stretched, with stock suspension/wheels, why not a 53" dry van or reefer box?

[Just_Build_It]

I'm starting to think a dry van would be my best bet with what I started with. Its 95° in my shop/garage and I'm beginning to lose patience. I might just have it "appear" to be something that it isnt.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0836.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0836.jpg.html)

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0842_1.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0842_1.jpg.html)

I need to stop using so much wood, these projects might turn out better if I just used the proper material rather than being cheap and using scrap wood.

I can say that by doing it this way is teaching me on a low cost budget.

As for the spread axles I used two sets if axle suspension arms and used the pre drilled holes on the chassis which in turn lowered the deck 2cm and I was able to stretch the wheelbase without having to change anything on the frame rails.

[Just_Build_It]

This is what the side you can't see looks like.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0843.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0843.jpg.html)

I think that it needs to lowered a bit.

[Just_Build_It]

I fixed the deck height issue which wasn't too difficult but it still needs better bracing where the deck drops. I also need to cut out new walls once I get it all properly braced.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0855.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0855.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

Really starting to make good use of the Tamiya flatbed. Floorboards why not use them for walls. The deck is perfect for an upper deck. After doing some measurements for the height of a typical NASCAR. I need to lower the upper deck another inch or so. Then I will start working on the aesthetics of the interior.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0865.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0865.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0864.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0864.jpg.html)

[frizzen]

That's really coming along!

Are you going to get a 1/14 car for it to haul too? I could see a stickered up mustang or rally car, or maybe a supercar roll out of that.

[Just_Build_It]

Thanks!

I'm going to look for a car that'll fit. The ceiling height might need to raised by an inch after I did some research on the height of a NASCAR and I'm about an inch too low.

Right now I'm focusing on the bottom deck framing for doors tool boxes/tables/shelves and whatever else.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0869.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0869.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0870.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0870.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0872.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0872.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

I might be getting a little ahead of myself here but I had to use aluminum on the rear lift gate. It's still in the early stages and haven't figured out how to accomplish the lifting an tilting mechanics of the folding and lifting without hydrolics. I'll probably need to configure a simple pulley and winching system like a cable bucket for a crane.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0878.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0878.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0877.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0877.jpg.html)

I wish I had a milling machine so I could run a single rod across then have it pulled up and down for raising and lowering with a single wire in the middle for a winch.

[Just_Build_It]

After mulling it over I found if I wasn't an idiot, all I had to do was turn the "C" bar facing inward. Drill two hles on the "L" deck bracket and voilà, problem solved.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0880.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0880.jpg.html)

Its only mocked up right now but I'm going to make the deck able to drop down past the deck closer to the ground.

[Just_Build_It]

After many changes and head scratching, it has a rear door/lift. Needs to be extended by an inch to allow clearance for a 3.5" tall mystery car and that will be my goal for tomorrow.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0891.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0891.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

The easy part is done. Now to get it functional via hands free.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0896.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0896.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0895.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0895.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

Getting the lift gate situated and it will be functional.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0899.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0899.jpg.html)

[Cossett]

With the life cables and the rear do why not use screw drives and winches hidden in the roof ?

Cheers Tracy

[Just_Build_It]

With the life cables and the rear do why not use screw drives and winches hidden in the roof ?

Cheers Tracy

I've considered using screw drives for lifting the gate up but I'm not clear on where I would place the motors. For closing the gate I'm going to use a winch with two spools of cable for each side. A micro servo may be needed to get the first motion getting the gate to start folding down from the closed position.

I'm changing things as I go so all tips are very much appreciated.

[Just_Build_It]

One step forward and two steps back. I needed better bracing so I had to get rid of a lot that I can add later. I used some aluminum to make brackets to hold the upper deck without the gate falling backwards. I still need to add some screws to pull the gate closer to the deck at the top to get the 90° angle.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0922.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0922.jpg.html)

Once all that is taken care of I can start working on the gate more and add some folding ramps.

[Just_Build_It]

The cargo arrived today and fits like a glove.

In other news, I started polishing the aluminum then hooked up two of the four cables needed for lifting and levitation. The levitating is where I'm not sure how to accomplish yet but I love solving problems and scratching my head until it bleeds haha.

This is the cargo teaser, do you know what it is?
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0934_2.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0934_2.jpg.html)

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0936.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0936.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0937.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0937.jpg.html)

[frizzen]

Bmw, so maybe m3 or m5?

If i'm reading that right, the tailgate needs to go vertical to horizontal, so car can drive out, then stay horizontal while lowering vertically?

[Just_Build_It]

You're warm but neither of those particular BMWs.

Yes, you are correct about the vertical and horizontal gate. I need to come up with a way to lock it horizontal while going up and down.

[frizzen]

Would it work to:
Hinge the bottom of gate, lifting straps off top corners to a winch. Make a shape about the size of gate from square tube, which can move up and down in very solid mounted a c-channel at back of the body. The 2 drum winch attach to top of this shape, so it moves with it, cable stop with ramp flat. Ramp hinge at bottom of shape, nothing too fancy.
Winch the ramp open and closed
Screwdrive the lift up and down
Maybe still make a set of ramps for the now mild approach angle to gate?

Well i wasted my guess. That's a Bmw rim. looks like someone makes 1/14 bmw i8, m3, m4, x6, x5.

[Just_Build_It]

I believe that might be the answer you just described. I watched a few YouTube videos of the life sized in operation. Actually Feather Lite has a good video of how those gates work on their trailers. In the video that I watched they use 2 separate cables at different lengths. One is for raising and lowering and the the other is for closing. Things seem to be coming more clear.

I ran through a couple ideas for exactly as you described for the action of the gate. I might have to see if I have two small 1:10 which motors for a screw drive and where I would have to mount them to achieve the proper landing. Since they can't sit on top or bottom for clearance issues considering how the screw drive mothers will have to be mounted vertical... Unless I can fabricat some kind of ring and pinion as in a differetial.

I do plan for a better longer and lower approach angle ramps, which won't be an issue.

[Just_Build_It]

Still stuck on the rear gate actions. So I decided to hook it up to my rig and it measures 65.5" from bumper to bumper.

I know how the door is supposed to work but I dont know where to begin with ordering or buying parts.I know where to get the parts, I just don't know which I will need for a screw drive mechanism or how I can lock it horizontal without hydraulics.

Its seems like on paper a winching system would work.Maybe I have to change things. I'm losing my mind! Once I solve this,the rest of the build will be a piece of cake. I'm 100% going to make this work, I won't give up and settle for a basic auto transport.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0951.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG0951.jpg.html)

[frizzen]

Locking with hydros?
i was only thinking each of the winch lines mounted to the top corners go through a small tube in the moving frame, with a big knot or crimped thing on the lines to stop it at horizontal. Gearmotor or hacked servo wouldn't need high torque, since it just works the gate close.

http://www.rccrawler.com/forum/tools-procedures/363218-scaler-tech-how-make-servo-winch-spool.html

Lift could be 1 or 2 actuonix actuators instead of building your own screw drives.

[Just_Build_It]

Hydro's were just a thought.

Opening and closing isn't an issue. But once the lifting and lowering action is executed there will be slack on the lines once its open and lifting at the same time thus causing the gate to tilt up and the bottom end to be pulled up causing the the vehicle to roll off backwards.

Two hacked servos working in unison would be the way to go for lifting horizontally allowing the vehicle to drive onto the deck. Then once the gate is at the second deck, servo #2 would be able drop the bottom end then servo #1 can pull the gate up to the closed position.

Thank you, Frizzen your input is really helping me to come up with a solution and give me fresh ideas.

[frizzen]

Please excuse the ugly napkin sketch, it was drawn on my potato and not scale.

http://i.imgur.com/P3gyFDph.jpg

Back of trailer and channels the door frame ride in not drawn.

Winch hard mounted off the door frame. cables tight during open/close, and have stops that don't fit through the passthrough tubes in frame when it hits horizontal so its never going to slack.

Lift actuator not drawn but uses lugs at bottom of door frame, and another lug on a support whereever it fits coming off trailer frame.

Then possibly another winch down gate for the pretty side that shows when it's closed, or a big set of doors like a normal cargo trailer to hide this mechanism when all closed up.

[Just_Build_It]

Unless the winch line and screw drive are paired to keep the door level going up and down I can see how your sketch would work.

I've watched the full sized trailer with the screw drive open and close 100 times by now. In the video there's 2 lines on each side one short and one long that are manually unhooked and hooked up for the 2 actions(open/close-up/down).

I've noticed on the full sized it looks like the hinged part of the door when it lays horizontal it locks into or lays vertical against the place for the screw drive to pull it up with the long lines attached to the screw drive(long lines for support) slide so it moves as a single unit up and down. When opening and closing, the short lines are attached at about the halfway height at the horizontal position. After that it looks like there's a seperation or its just the short lines that are hard fixed to the door frame so once the screw drive pushes the door up/down, in return like a teeter totter pulls the door updown and is shut/opened. Does that make any sense? My brain cells need a break.

I'm going to Lowe's tomorrow to pick out some cactiwith my wife for mothers day (picking out plants is our tradition) and I'm going to look for square tubing and threaded rod for the screw drive portion.

[Just_Build_It]

Changed the gate and made it taller/longer. I really don't want to take the winches off my other vehicles so I started working on the screw lift but the threaded rod I have is too big and I need a collet for a motor to get it moving.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1017.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1017.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

I changed things around and in this picture is the taillights an brake lights housing on the bumper. Still working on my polishing and metal working. Learning new things as I go.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1030.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1030.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

Ok so now the lift gate is secured to the back of the trailer, I can now start working on the winching system.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1033.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1033.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

Mocked up the side walls.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1050.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1050.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

It's been a little bit since my last update.

The framework of the trailer is changing and becoming a lot more structurally sound. I'm replacing a lot of the wood for aluminum. I think I'm not doing too bad with my jigsaw, bastard file and, drill press. A band saw would certainly help cut down on the time spent fixing edges to square.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1130.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1130.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1132.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1132.jpg.html)

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1134.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1134.jpg.html)

I'm going to try and use scale hex bolts as much as I can for a little more detail.

I was also trying to find a way to eliminate the use of the round amber LEDs but that's just not an option for me.

[Just_Build_It]

Changed up the king pin deck for aluminum which I'm still working on.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1170.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1170.jpg.html)

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1171_edit_1496966838991.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1171_edit_1496966838991.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

Gradually making progress. I secured the kingpin deck and raised it 1/4" to clear the fenders and level the chassis.
At the moment I'm concentrating on the frame and I will do the electronics once everything is in place.
There are no plans for this build so I'm letting the build direct me where to go.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1182.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1182.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1187.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1187.jpg.html)
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1192_1.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1192_1.jpg.html)

This will probably be the longest build I have done so far and its constantly being torn down and reconstructed which is driving me up the wall.

[Just_Build_It]

One more update picture of a mock up.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1200.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1200.jpg.html)

[Hostile]

Looks great mate. Just like the race transports we have at work!

[Just_Build_It]

Looks great mate. Just like the race transports we have at work!

Thanks! Thats what I'm going for. It started out as just a regular box trailer but as the project went forward it has morphed into a complex auto hauler.

[Hostile]

Its looking brilliant. That back door is perfect. Love that its going to be functional. Itll make the trailer really stand out.

[Just_Build_It]

If the gate wasn't operational, I probably wouldn't put so much effort into making a lift gate. It would've been so much easier to just build a regular drive-in hauler. Although it will need to have the axis/folding end cables manually connected/disconnected for the open/close function to operate properly. On second thought a clutch mechanism for the cables that I would have to disconnect manually is something I'm going to consider, now that the idea popped into my head.

So far Frizzen' has given me the best option for the cable system using 4 cables and a single winch. I have to craft a roller or fairlead of some kind for the cables.

[Hostile]

I wish i got the chance to take some pics of the race trailer as it was in today. The way it is, is a worm drive for the up and down function and hydrolic rams to tilt. The rams are connected to the worm drive so they move in a set position. I think its very probable to get working like the real thing, it just might mean youd need to refab the rear set up.

[Just_Build_It]

That would've been great to have some better pictures.

I thought it moved with a single unit up and down. Using hydro's would be the way to go but I was trying to keep it simple and on the less expensive side. If you could get some pictures I might be willing to change up the rear end to make it the proper way.

Since I've started this build I probably have built it and tore it down so many times that I can't remember. I'm going to change the chassis from wood to aluminum once I can get more materials.

[Hostile]

Ok i was able to get some pics for you today. Hope they help.

http://imageshack.com/a/img924/9067/gx0Ywg.jpg
http://imageshack.com/a/img923/9051/dRvC35.jpg
http://imageshack.com/a/img922/4243/Kutxc7.jpg
http://imageshack.com/a/img923/7025/dVXq0m.jpg

[Just_Build_It]

Thank you for those pics, they are exactly what I needed! I think I can do something to make this work.

[wolfws6]

I'm super interested on how you'll get this to work. I'got lazy on mine and never tried to make like the real trailers. Keep up the good work!!:D

[Just_Build_It]

A lot of R&D for sure. It'll take some time and I'll eventually get it operating. I have decided to go with hydraulics so that is going to take a little longer to acquire a full hydro setup.

[Just_Build_It]

Not the cleanest looking chassis but its the best I can do with only screws and nuts. Still way more to go.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1218.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1218.jpg.html)

I know what you are thinking... That chassis looks weak! Rest assured that it will be reinforced.

[Just_Build_It]

Got the axles in place. They are a little off center looking at the picture.
http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1221_1.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1221_1.jpg.html)

[Just_Build_It]

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1238.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1238.jpg.html)

Added braces and straightened up. I still have to bolt down the carrier deck to the chassis.

[Just_Build_It]

I started drawing a concept of the lifting mechanism via dual screw drives.

Here is the rough sketch of the screw drive system I'm envisioning. As always some input from anyone is always appreciated.

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k114/mustan281/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1246_1.jpg (http://s86.photobucket.com/user/mustan281/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMAG1246_1.jpg.html)

[tippa]

pm sent just build it might be able to help with your lens problem

[Hostile]

Photobucket is an issue atm as pics wont show. Im switching to imageshack so cant see pics beother

[Just_Build_It]

Ugh, I've been using photo bucket for at least 15 years and now they want my money. I'm going to check out imageshack as I've never used it before.

[Just_Build_It]

A little update of what I've been up to. I cut out the tool/equipment/lounging bay rear door frame then cut out a ceiling and drilled holes for some interior lighting. I finished up getting the floor situated and painted. Next I moved onto the first tool box/storage unit. There's still a lot to be done in that area.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/922/9NO2Td.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pm9NO2Tdj)

[Just_Build_It]

I'm trying to work on things other than the lift gate until I can get some hydro cylinders, so at this juncture in the build I'm trying to get the interior all dressed up. Once I finish the cabinets and such I'm going to move onto getting all the lights wired up. The walls are going to be last for obvious reasons.

This what I did today.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/924/5oQPiD.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/po5oQPiDj)

[Just_Build_It]

I got some of the interior finished yesterday and today. I finished wiring the ceiling lights and added a light for the cabinet towards the front. The construction isn't finished with a professionals touch but it looks decent enough.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/923/3iVCHO.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pn3iVCHOj)

[Just_Build_It]

Kind of looks like a party bus or discotek now. The blue doesn't photograph very well with my phone.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/924/8MfLWW.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/po8MfLWWj)

From the side door looking in
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/924/x5eetB.jpg (https://imageshack.com/i/pox5eetBj)

[Just_Build_It]

I've been working on the lift-gate. I added five lights and hooks with chain.
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/924/3ccLfE.jpg (http://imageshack.com/f/po3ccLfEj)
http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/923/JBqbOZ.jpg (http://imageshack.com/f/pnJBqbOZj)

[Hostile]

Looking great there mate!

[Just_Build_It]

Thank you! This project is really a complicated one and I'll get some updated pictures up soon of where I'm at.

[SpeedyPetey]

Thats going to be soooo cool when completed!

[Just_Build_It]

I'm a little slow with getting the lift gate operational so I'm working on the appearance until I can fork out a couple hundred $$ for the hydro and lifting mechanism's.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/150x100q90/924/JABRp7.jpg (http://imageshack.com/f/poJABRp7j)

Currently other than the lighting I'm trying to figure out how I'm going to affix the sidewalls. I'm leaning towards using a piano hinge on one side (in the inside) so I can get inside witout taking the whole trailer apart.

[Hostile]

Looking great mate! Piano hinge is a good idea. And maybe a locking mechanism simple as a shot bolt that can be acessed from underneath perhaps?