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| 6'4" x 10 trailer |
Jacks mounted on the ramp make it a 6'x4' platform/porch. A dutch/split door will be at that end and will be offset to one side and 30" wide.
| Example of a ledge wagon - note ledge extending out above wheels |
The only issue I have is whether to make straight sides or do a "ledge" wagon with 12" ledges over each side. The ledges will make it 8'4" wide, still not a big deal, but a little more difficult to build.
Why even think about the ledges? Well, not that I would sleep in it, but I wanted to build a bunk in the front in the event I wanted to rest while at a festival. Also, if the opportunity came up to sell it for a profit I could then make another. A bed of some type would make it more marketable.
Here is the problem; the inside width is 6'4" before walls go up. I will lose 2 inches on each side, making the interior 6' across. A bunk bed mattress is 6'3" long. The cross bracing for the bed platform also adds stability to the structure and provides storage underneath.
An alternative would be to do a fold up bed on one side. Hinged legs when it is folded down for support and it folds up to the wall when not in use. I could even use a full size mattress on it (54" wide vs 39" for a twin.) Sort of like a sideways Murphy bed. Another much easier alternative? A fold up cot! $99 at WalMart.
The ledges would allow me to build cabinets and shelving without taking up floor space. They do have to be braced, however.
First steps first. Purchase the trailer.
Keep up the posts! I can't wait to watch it progress. One of my great great grandfathers was a medicine man after the civil war but he worked out of a milk wagon.
ReplyDeleteG
Want to watch the progress! I'd strongly consider a ledge-type for the purpose you describe. I built mine (bow-top) before measuring mattresses -- big mistake!
ReplyDeleteYou may also want to consider camping air mattresses -- much lighter, comfortable, and aids in a fold-up bed.
I resolved my mattress problem with a camping air mattress meant to be used in the back of an SUV -- a little shorter than most air mattresses and was able to squeeze it in my bow-top.
BTW -- the SUV air mattress will fit in 6 feet (noted you mentioned mattress was 6' 3" above)
ReplyDeleteOh, did I mention I am 6'2" tall? In Ohio the width needs to be under 102 inches. At 76" already for the trailer I need to watch the ledges if I do them. A foot on each side takes it to 100"
ReplyDeleteSo, I am considering narrow ledges - 6 inches on each side for a total of 88" - well within the 102"
I do like the idea of a SUV air mattress though. It would make the build easier.
BTW, here is a link with towing limitations for each state:
http://www.towingworld.com/articles/TowingLaws.htm