11 replies to this topic

[Str8Thru]

I wasnt really sure where to post this, but i was just wondering if anyone has ever converted an old caravan into a trailer for a Mini? 

 

Thanks in advance

[Ethel]

Seems as good as place as any? Will you be keeping the chemical toilet?

Somebody converted their Mini in to a caravan a while back.

[minifreek1]

Need to make sure its a twin axle I reckon, if it hasn't got shock absorbers Id retrofit them (not hard to do) just to take out any bounce....

 

Seems a good idea though, as a twin axle caravan body weighs about the same as a Mini....

[Str8Thru]

Thanks,its single axle.... which isnt great but it is was free so i thought i would make the most of it!! It doesn't have shocks but the only reason i will be using this will be to cart it around locally (i wont be going far with it!) do you still recommend i retrofit them?

[jaysmini1983]

Whats the weight rating, i would guess it was approx 1100kg loaded, Im guessing you're going to scrap the body etc, if so fine for a mini. 

[Pistonbroke66]

I fear after 14 months intensive work you may find it was easier to buy a trailer in the first place.......

[minifreek1]

Always easier to buy a purpose built trailer, but no where near as much fun as building your own....

 

Im slowly getting the parts together for a Mini trailer myself, made from the usual rear of a Mini....

[Str8Thru]

to be honest its not although I actually intended to do it, but I just got given it so I thought I would give it a go!! Like to see your Mini trailer... add some pics? Thanks

[DomCr250]

I built one a few years ago ...it's single axle and works really well.

I used 3mm Ali checker plate, the 8 x 4 foot sections were cut into 8 x 2 foot and folded into a wide channel with a lip each side, added another half section on each side and it gave me a 12 foot bed. Each side is joined by Ali U section that's about 2 x 3 inch to form a ladder, the whole thing was welded up with my MIG and then bolted onto the existing A Frame.

The trailer / caravan was rated at 1300kgs, with my new deck the transporter weighs in at 245kg, so it has a useful load limit.

Only thing I'd rethink again is my axle position, if the mini is loaded on front first then my hitch nose weight is a little high, but I load it backwards with an electric winch and it means I'm at about 80kgs which for my tow car is nothing.

Ohh it tows perfectly and won't rust .. It's debatable if you can still do it, trailers need type approval now.

No shocks on it, most commercial transporters are the same, the car is secured by tyre straps, so the suspension still floats.

Edited by DomCr250, 13 February 2018 - 10:21 AM.

[Str8Thru]

Oh dear, I haven't looked into that! Is it hard to get them road use approved then? Thanks for the advice! *thumbsup*

[minifreek1]

Im not 100% but I think the type approval is for new trailers...?

 

As long as the trailer thats built has working lights and reflectors you'll be OK with the Sgt Plod....

[minifreek1]

to be honest its not although I actually intended to do it, but I just got given it so I thought I would give it a go!! Like to see your Mini trailer... add some pics? Thanks

 

I'll add pics if I remember but don't hold your breath.... I usually have every intention on taking pictures and uploading them, but then completely forget...