Converting a utility trailer

[rjinga]

I traded a handgun for a tilt-trailer this afternoon. My initial thoughts were to use it to haul stuff like the rider mower, etc. Then I started thinking - it would be pretty cool to build a slide-in camping storage box with a tent on the top. What do y'all think? It is a 4x6 with a GVWR of 1,573 lbs, GAWR of 1,430 lbs, and max load carrying capacity of 1,328 lbs. According to my measurements it has 17" tires with 9" rims. I know I can't do heavy off-roading with the current tires, but could they get me down a regular Forest Service road to a campsite? I'd be pulling it with either my Range Rover or my son's Jeep Cherokee.

 

[rjinga]

I've think I've found my trailer top (in my backyard).

 

[brianwj]

I did that with my trailer but without the tent. sorry about the fuzzy phone pic I have more on my computer. I have a door on the back with a full length slide out for gear and I can take the box out and still use the utility trailer when needed.

 

[Woods]

I did the same basic idea, with less space and bigger tires.

The ultimate would be do mount the shell with hinges at the front of the box and be able to tilt the shell up. You'll get out of it what you put into it. You've got a great start.

 

[rjinga]

My son and I flipped the axle; really makes a difference. I think we gained 4-5 inches. While I had it upside down I also sprayed the entire bottom with rust reformer.

Can I get a bigger wheel/tire that will still fit the existing lug pattern and spacing?

 

[rjinga]

Can I get a bigger wheel/tire that will still fit the existing lug pattern and spacing?

Ok, I'm learning. My current wheel/tire is a 5.7-8, with a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern. Can I put a bigger diameter wheel/tire on my current trailer?

 

[Woods]

At a minimum you'll be able to find a 12" trailer tire that will fit. Beyond that, you'll need to check clearance on the fender. 5 on 4.5 is a common lug pattern.

The 12" wheels are a big improvement over the 8's.

Ok, I'm learning. My current wheel/tire is a 5.7-8, with a 5 on 4-1/2 bolt pattern. Can I put a bigger diameter wheel/tire on my current trailer?

 

[navigator]

try your son's jeep spare and see how it fits. It should be the same lug pattern.

 

[rjinga]

At a minimum you'll be able to find a 12" trailer tire that will fit. Beyond that, you'll need to check clearance on the fender. 5 on 4.5 is a common lug pattern.

The 12" wheels are a big improvement over the 8's.

Well, my son is working on a lawn project for school, so yesterday he and my wife and my other son took the trailer to get some dirt. The helpful guy at county facility used a front-loader to load the trailer, and flattened both tires. Long story short, I had a good excuse to go ahead and buy new 12" wheels/tires. 12s are the largest set that won't rub under the current fenders, and I don't want to bother with replacing the fenders to go bigger, yet.