Sunset Landing

Tech, Toys, Boats, and Projects

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Introduction
Design Criteria
- Profile and Dimensions
Trailer/Chassis
Framing and Skin - 1
Framing and Skin - 2
Windows and Hardware
Exterior Finish
Interior Design
Stocking the Trailer
Test Results

Click on italicized text for links and use your BACK button to return.

Teardrop and Related Links
Teardrop Web Ring

Teardrop and Tiny Travel Trailer Forum

Trailer for Chassis
The trailer for this project is a Rance Rough Rider 5X8 utility trailer.

Parts
Li'l Bear Tagalongs
Awning windows, hatch hinge, and drip molding.

Harbor Freight
Trailers, etc.

Reid Tool Company
Lots of cool hardware.

Northern Tool
Similar to Harbor Freight.

TJ Trailers
Trailers and parts

 

 

Teardrop Cargo/Camper Trailer

Introduction

History

Teardrop trailers became popular during the thirties and forties. A pent up desire to travel and have fun along with an abundance of aluminum from surplus aircraft came together to create a new type of travel trailer that was light and easy to tow. In recent years, teardrops have been making a comeback. Contemporary cars can tow much larger trailers so it must be assumed that teardrops are back mainly for the fun of building and camping in one. Follow the link to the Teardrop Web Ring for a complete history and background as well as many great photos of teardrops.

My "Teardrop"

Okay, I'll admit right up front that my trailer does not have the classic teardrop shape. As I surfed around the web ring, I noticed that some builders have departed to one degree or another from the airfoil profile while still maintaining the basic dimensions and concepts. That's what I will be doing also. I need to haul recumbents inside my trailer  from time to time. I also need to be able to haul plywood for projects, leaves and brush to the recycling center, and, ultimately be able to remove the shell from the trailer chassis so the trailer can haul my rowing scows.

At this point, I'm not sure whether I will be building a prototype or the final version. I may not even know that myself until part way through the process.

Click on to the next page and we'll see where we get to.

 


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March 14, 2004