workhardplayharder wrote:
I am in the process of selling Class A and getting back to the basics. I am looking for a set of plans for a trailer that is a little bigger then a tear drop but small enough to be towed by a small SUV (3500 lb tow limit).
Glen L that Snowman posted is most likely the best source of "plans" you are going to find.
If nothing else buy the plans for the frame then modify everything else to suit your taste..
HOWEVER!
You NEED to check with your own states DMV and get ALL the facts on how to title your trailer.
Many states getting a title can be a huge hassle. It would be terrible to invest a lot of money and time in building a trailer to only find out the state refuses to title the trailer..
In PA, they have very specific sequence that you must follow.
1) You MUST HAVE RECEIPTS (bill of sale) of ALL MAJOR components like axle, springs, frame materials and such.
2) You MUST follow any and all safety related items in placement and quantity (IE exterior lighting height and placement) per the state rules.
3) Once built the trailer MUST be taken to a state approved and licensed inspection station.
4) Inspection mechanic MUST inspect the trailer for all required elements then fill out all proper paperwork then send that with FOUR photos (front, sides and rear that YOU provide) to Harrisburg (where PADOT HQ is). You pay the mechanic a fee for this service PLUS the PADOT application fees.
5) Then you WAIT and hopefully you get a title up to six or more weeks later.
6) Then you will need to take the title to a Notary and buy a plate plus pay any taxes that the state feels you owe.
7) Then if trailer is 3K lbs or higher GVW you will need to take the trailer back to your inspection mechanic to get the trailer "inspected" for the year (get a inspection sticker put on).
8) Now you can go camping...
Hopefully your state is not as demanding..
For those reasons above I bought an older used and beat up TT and gutted it.
My suggestion would be to buy a small utility trailer which you can find often at Tractor Supply, Home Depot, lowes. The type I am talking about is those small open landscape trailers with the steel mesh floors. Often a small one can be had for $500-$1000 and buying one will get you a certificate of origin.
The Certificate of origin is an important document which you can submit to your DMV with a fee of course and they WILL ISSUE you a title with no hassle.
Once you have a title then you simply can build your floor, walls and roof on the trailer...
I should note.. that it is your responsibility to PROPERLY BALANCE the load on your trailer. You MUST have a minimum of 10% of the trailer weight ON THE TONGUE. less than 10% and you will have a "tiger" by it's tail and it will not tow properly.
You will need to carefully weigh all of the stuff you put into it like A/C, furnace, fridge and such.. Everything must be placed in such a way to balance the load from front to back and even side to side..