Split-dovetail car hauler trailer

[buggyman1]

Any updates?

I just got the metal for the fenders before the storm hit. I'm snowed in probably all weekend, hope to get some more done on it.

 

[two_bit_score]

We are waiting.

 

[buggyman1]

I'm making the fenders out of 10" channel, 3/16" thick. Pic of me trying to get the right space between the tires and fenders, I finally settled on 4 inches, that's what my dump trailer has.

 

[buggyman1]

Here's a jig I made to help hold the angles while welding, looks crude but worked really well. My bandsaw won't cut 10" angles so I cut them with a cut-off wheel.

 

[buggyman1]

Temporarily out of the jig to check the fit. I like this look, but i'm adding a short piece to the bottom for strength (more to weld to the side) plus it will shield better also.

 

[buggyman1]

Short pieces welded on. I cleaned up the welds a little with a grinder and sander, it still needs a little more sanding to blend it in a bit better. I'll wait and do that after I weld them to the trailer.

 

[buggyman1]

Gussets cut-out for the fender to help support the middle. These were a pain getting the angles right, I used cardboard for a templet, then plywood, to be sure they would fit right. I then had to trick my bandsaw into cutting 55% angles.

 

[buggyman1]

I used some of my left-over diamond plate for the inner fender wells. They were a little short so I cheated a little and made them longer. I cut the angles with my jigsaw.

 

[buggyman1]

Fenders, gussets, inner fender wells all welded on. Welds are not perfect, but they'll do. It seems really strong.

 

[buggyman1]

Pic with the wheels on, not perfect but i'm happy. One down, one to go. I have everything cut-out for the other side so hopefully it won't take as long. I'm going to add marker lights to the fenders as I don't think i'll be able to see the tail lights (for the fenders being in the way) so I can see my width after dark. I'm still deciding on the steps for the front and back of the fenders, I think i'll mock something up to see what it'll look like.