School me on all things aluminum travel trailers.

[cab591]

I like the idea of converting a cargo trailer -- in fact, we've got one already (I think it's about 18') -- problem is, most of them use wood inside, which gets very heavy. Lightness is key here... Those Wells Cargo trailers look nice, but by the time they get big enough, they're way too heavy.

Over in this thread (AnywhereElse's forum), some guy was considering the same thing -- ultralight toy haulers, for a single motorcycle. He came up with this design (picture). Thinking self-build is my best option, at this point, to keep weight down.

[StealthRabbit]

Originally Posted by cab591

I like the idea of converting a cargo trailer -- problem is, most of them use wood inside, which gets very heavy. Lightness is key here... this design (picture). Thinking self-build is my best option, at this point, to keep weight down.

This will do if you need for space for a narrow toy. You can add the awning and fold-down shelves (ironing board type) inside and out.

I would look for a used 'rental' (or UPS) truck cargo 'van body' for ultra-LIGHT parts / panels. I think panels would be VERY expensive new. You can get used truck bodies quite cheap (often aluminum / fiber / composite combo). Would provide enough materials for a couple RV trailers.

You can use panels in fiberglass / plastic for sides and translucent for top. They are very light and very robust. There are some LIGHT structural honeycomb panels for airline floors. Local folks used to get it a 'Boeing Surplus'. It would work terrific inside RV for partitions and deck (bed / shelf / ramp).

[cab591]

Great ideas! A family friend of ours owns a company that produces metal roofs (primarily), as well as beams and siding to construct metal buildings, so I might luck out and be able to snag a roll of aluminum sheeting at-cost.

[Kenmar2]

I have to agree with RTANDZ on this one! On a perfect day, my VW bug might move a travel trailer from point A to point B. When considering a tow vehicle, you can't allow photos to replace common sense. Factor in wind, temperature, elevations and emergency stopping situations.

Check with your auto insurance agent to see if he/she can insure your TT and towing vehicle. We have aluminum built Holiday Rambler & are very satisfied with quality. IMO key requirements for TT construction include one piece roof, enclosed underbelly and rivets (vs nailed/screwed).

Good luck to you!

[camper3]

Just saw this thread. We have a Livin Lite 8.0, so I could answer questions, if anyone is still curious.

Just to clarify...our camper has the canvas roof...ours is not their big box alum camper. Our "unfolds" but can be towed by a 4-cyl SUV.