Back Hatch Fab on Vintage Trailer

[rowdyATX]

Similar to the Eddie Bauer version (see below) I want to add a back “door” or hatch that lifts up and gives access to the rear of the trailer. I have a ‘56 Ambassador (26’). Has anyone ever fabricated something similar??

[Bubba L]

If you could live with a hingeless rear hatch, you could get the extruded frame members from Vintage Trailer Supply. I’ve seen those and they look pretty good. To build a hinged door that is period correct, you may have to take a piece of.032 alclad to a sheet metal shop and have them make the exterior piece. The inside skin has simple 90 degree bends. The outer portion has some compound bends. InsuLation goes between the inner and outer. Good luck, Bubba

[rowdyATX]

Thanks! You happen to have a pic of a hingeless rear hatch? Also, how will the hatch open with no hinge?

[Iansk]

Originally Posted by rowdyATX

Similar to the Eddie Bauer version (see below) I want to add a back “door” or hatch that lifts up and gives access to the rear of the trailer. I have a ‘56 Ambassador (26’). Has anyone ever fabricated something similar?? Attachment 302287

I have not done this, but since you are in the Austin area, you may want to visit Crippen Sheet metal, they do some pretty wild design work with all types of metals including aluminum. They are also where I get all my aluminum sheet goods locally.

There is also SteelHouse, the owner there is a genius and may be able to offer some design ideas.

Hit me up if you need any help, sounds like a fun project. No charge, but maybe you could help me if/when (when) I need it?

Ian

[rowdyATX]

Originally Posted by Iansk

I have not done this, but since you are in the Austin area, you may want to visit Crippen Sheet metal, they do some pretty wild design work with all types of metals including aluminum. They are also where I get all my aluminum sheet goods locally.



There is also SteelHouse, the owner there is a genius and may be able to offer some design ideas.



Hit me up if you need any help, sounds like a fun project. No charge, but maybe you could help me if/when (when) I need it?



Ian

Thanks, Ian. I’ve worked with the guys at SteelHouse on home renovation. They are great. I’ll check with Crippen. When I get the parts in, I’ll hit you up!

[HiHoAgRV]

You will end up with either a really short door or a goofy seam across the upper segments. Measure from the top of the window to the floor, it's a really short door. To gain more hear room the door must contain part of the endcap and there is no structure up there.

The shape the rear end is significantly different from '50's/60's and a modern trailer.