ideal shape trailer help

[freebeard]

For ease of fabrication: thin sheets in simple curves with curved edges.

[bentring]

I'm in the beginning of the planning phase of an aero trailer build so I'll be keeping an eye on this thread. Is that the 40x48 harbor freight trailer? What materials are you planning to use?

Also, what's the purpose of the vertical fin on the pics posted by aerohead?

[wagonef8]

Its 40 1/2x48 got the one with biger wheels . I think wood will be the easiest material to use this is ny first version maybe next one I'll use one piece fiberglass shell

[freebeard]

Also, what's the purpose of the vertical fin on the pics posted by aerohead

I believe he said it'd so he could see where it was when he was backing up.

40 1/2 by 48 is a standard pallet size.

Fiberglass is messy and finicky and unless you have a female mold it's hard to get a smooth finish. Polymetal or sheet ABS gives you a pre-finished surface.

[wagonef8]

We have local trailer builder you can buy aluminum skin from pretty cheap and already comes pre painted

[freebeard]

Size? Thickness? Price?

Polymetal is available in 4x8, 4x10 and 5x10 sheets, 3mm and 6mm thickness. Stiff as 5/8" plywood but more expensive (but it's prefinished).

[wagonef8]

One 4x8 sheet cost more than my trailer

[bentring]

I'm really tempted to use FRP panels.

[Grant-53]

For the floor pan metal clad plywood is good. For the upper parts I would suggest a rib and skin combo. Aluminum or ABS would work.

[wagonef8]

My friend just got me some 3x8 sheets of aluminum skin for $15 a piece from the trailer place he works at and yes rib on top is what I had in mind