other Epic Ideas Can Also Be Stupid...

[jgerock]

I figured it wasn't a new idea haha. Just wondering if it would work ok, simply asking for advice!

Sorry - just throwing out some older pictures (ideas are always good).

[abite]

It's all good! Those are cool!

[Beaner7102]

Look at Alucobond for wall panels of your camper - http://www.alucobondusa.com/products.html

Its thin aluminum sheets with a plastic core - very strong, with minimal weight, and available in a range of colours.

Love the idea.

As to wether your car is up to pulling it, look at bigger brakes and an oil cooler. Then the main weak link will be the diff.

Beaner7102

Edited April 3, 2014 by Beaner7102

[eurotrash]

I think it could be built to weigh under 800 lbs. and that's being generous.

Google this: independent rubber torsion suspension.

That get your wheels turnin,?

[abite]

It definitely could be built around that weight, I was just being very generous for insurance purposes. And the Rubber Torsion Suspension looks like a good idea, but on a budget, it may not be in my boat right away, I'm seeing it for around $150, definitely would be in my future though looking at the reviews on it. And Beaner, that Alucobond looks interesting, from what I see, they use a machine to bend it themselves, is there a way for a small consumer to do it that you know of? Loving all this info coming my way!

[TobyB]

 

 Bill Gates didn't get his start by not trying ...

No- didn't he steal and remarket dos?

 

t

[eurotrash]

You would have to draw it and order it bent.  $$$

With the foam, its the structure and the frame.  Once assembled, you coat it with fiberglass resin, prime and paint. 

[eurotrash]

This one has good scale, a good shape..   www.westhoffdesign.com/michael/teardrop/teardrop_plans.htm

[abite]

I really like the design of that euro, Might look into something very similar to that and adapt my own touch to it. And I'd probably look at doing foam at this point... Seems like a strong, lightweight solution, and fiber glass is always nice..

Edited April 3, 2014 by abite

[roadhog0]

Personally, I wouldnt do it (especially the flares on the 02, unless they're pig cheeks, but I like the minimalist look I guess...) BUT! As far as the trailer goes, I would start with a single axle boat trailer with a torsional axle. Reason for this is the boat trailer will come with surge brakes and for a small trailer behind an 02 this would help. Then do a disc brake conversion on the axle and build up from there. Ive been a trailer mechanic a few summers in a row, so the running gear of a trailer I am VERY familiar with. I like torsional axles much better for the main reason that they ride and trailer better.

Edited April 3, 2014 by roadhog0

[Beaner7102]

And Beaner, that Alucobond looks interesting, from what I see, they use a machine to bend it themselves, is there a way for a small consumer to do it that you know of?

 

 

Use a V-shaped bit in a router, cut a trench 3/4 the way through the sheet and it bends nicely. Giving nice 90deg bends.

Use a 1/4" straight bit and cut intricate shapes with nice smooth cuts.

HTH Beaner7102