M416 Trailer
Posted: Tue Apr 23, 2013 7:11 pm
I'll have to get some photos however, I started working on my trailer this evening to add a tailgate to my M416. I use it quite a bit around the house but not having easier access made it a bit more cumbersome than I cared to have.
Originally, the trailer was designed for the military, I think during the Korean conflict and some in Vietnam. The max capacity was set to 500 lbs but only because the limit was what 4 soldiers could carry. The axle and springs are easily 3500 lb capacity. There are handles on each corner and by removing 6 bolts, the whole tub would lift off the frame and also provide some flotation for crossing small streams and rivers. That isn't necessary in my world however having the ability to easily add and remove mulch, wood, gravel and dirt is.
So this is what I started with:
I'll update before long but I basically have cut most of the back plate off, added angle iron on the bottom using the existing bolt holes in the frame, and square stock as the risers. I'll hopefully continue progress tomorrow and I hope to give it some paint and possibly use bed liner for the interior. I also need to get the parking brake functional. It is in pretty decent shape considering but I think the multiple coats of paint have helped over the years.
Just for fun!
Also, if anyone has experience with rim size on these things, let me know. I need to toss some other setup on there so I can get my inspection done.
Tripper
Originally, the trailer was designed for the military, I think during the Korean conflict and some in Vietnam. The max capacity was set to 500 lbs but only because the limit was what 4 soldiers could carry. The axle and springs are easily 3500 lb capacity. There are handles on each corner and by removing 6 bolts, the whole tub would lift off the frame and also provide some flotation for crossing small streams and rivers. That isn't necessary in my world however having the ability to easily add and remove mulch, wood, gravel and dirt is.
So this is what I started with:
I'll update before long but I basically have cut most of the back plate off, added angle iron on the bottom using the existing bolt holes in the frame, and square stock as the risers. I'll hopefully continue progress tomorrow and I hope to give it some paint and possibly use bed liner for the interior. I also need to get the parking brake functional. It is in pretty decent shape considering but I think the multiple coats of paint have helped over the years.
Just for fun!
Also, if anyone has experience with rim size on these things, let me know. I need to toss some other setup on there so I can get my inspection done.
Tripper
