Basic m416 Build

[njsjeep]

This isn't so much a build thread as just a basic trailer refurbishing story. I have a Jeep Wrangler TJ and wanted the additional cargo capacity of a light weight off road capable utility trailer. Lurking here at EP reading various threads I decided an m416 would work well. Unfortunately, no one really suggested how hard they are to find in usable condition. So after several months of searching I managed to track one down out in Northern California. Unfortunately I live in Colorado and taking the time off from work to drive out and pick it up wasn't feasible. I had it shipped here by listing it on Uship.com; the shipping cost was almost the price of the trailer. So anyway, I got my hands on an m416 that was complete including the lights. The tub was in fair shape, not too many dings but a few areas of deep rust and everything had about 10 layers of paint. I was anxious to get going and not having a sandblaster around I decided to strip the tub by hand using a heat gun and various scrapers. This is a miserable process and not one I suggest anyone try but after about 40 hours of work I managed to get most of the tub down to bare metal. I used a several rust/paint remover wheels in a drill on corners and non-flat areas. I then primed and painted the tub. The first three pictures show the original trailer and various stages of tub paint stripping.

to be continued in next post

[njsjeep]

After all the fun of hand stripping the tub I decided to get the frame and other parts sandblasted. The next pics show the painted tub, original frame and various stages of priming and painting. The wheels and fenders, just behind the frame, are bare sandblasted metal. I primed and painted everything with spray can Rustoleum Professional red primer and gloss black paint.

[njsjeep]

The last step was putting everything back together. I used only a few of the original bolts and replaced everything else with either grade 8 or stainless hardware. I used basic LED lights and ran the wiring through vinyl tubing for protection. The hand brake was moved over and a turnbuckle added. I cut off the safety chains and used a plastic coated cable and rated stainless steel hardware. I just need to paint the wheels, put on the hub caps and get a home built title. I'll see how it works for me this spring and then decide on future modifications. The last three pictures show the "completed" trailer.

[telwyn]

Welcome to ExPo!

Turned out pretty darn well! Great job on the trailer.

My only concern (and I'm not an expert on this) is the toxicity of the military paint and any exposure you had in removing it. Hate to bring that up after the fact, but I think it warrants sharing.

Again, great job!

[njsjeep]

I figured the paint was lead based at best and had probably had other nasty toxic chemicals as well so I wore a coverall, impervious gloves, eye protection and a half face respirator filter mask and vacuumed everything regularly. I bagged up all the shavings, still have them, and also cleaned off the tools. I tried to sweep up all the dust and work outside as much as possible as well, There is still some residue in the garage but I plan to clean this up as I find it. Thanks for the concern.

[telwyn]

Good to hear! You are better prepared than I would have been...

Meant to ask this earlier - what is the bar pictured under the front of the trailer just behind the tongue? Looks like it extends all the way across the width of the tub on the bottom. Is it some sort of brush bar protection?

[njsjeep]

Some m416 trailers have steel rod "loops" welded on the back and front for helicopter lifting slings.

[Airborne Lee]

I have the USMC version of the M416 trailer. mfg date of 61.

I was told that they were for cargo straps for lifting onto ships. I guess choppers could use them as well. Us Army Airborne guys just strap a chute on the thing and jump out with it no need for no stinkin' cargo straps....

link in my signature.

[njsjeep]

Well, I added a tongue box and welded up some simple jerry can holders to mount along the sides of the box. The can holders are made to fit on a specific side. I'm waiting to pick up the latches that I had to order. I forgot to mention in the first post that I replaced the bearings and races and used truck bed liner on the tub floor.

[yyc_ranger_4x4]

Awesome job....it's great to see the attention people are giving these trailers. I was going to hunt for one, but I'm planning on building on in the spring.

In my limited trailer knowledge though, your safety cables, are they just a single one that is looped through a couple quick links? I was always told you needed two separate saftey cables/chains anchored to separate points on the trailer for greater control and redundancy in case they're ever needed. Keep up the great work...I hope this trailer serves you for many years!