Been browsing TNTTT for a while now. Lots of great advice and ideas. Thank you all!
Just started my build on a NT 5x8 aluminum trailer kit. Moved Axle 6" back because it looks better! And also because I've calculated my plywood weight and the galley would definitely make it difficult to have that 10% tongue weight. Plan on getting larger wheels/tires but still debating whether to replace the axle or use spacers. Trying to reserve my budget for the aluminum skin. Maybe replace axle later and use spacers for a year or two. Seen posts here that folks have been using spacers without trouble. I will keep them bearings nice and clean and greased at all times.
Profile of finished teardrop will be 9 ft at most bulbous parts, extending 6" at the front and 6" at the back over the trailer frame. Designed it with a 24"radius to allow for gentler plywood and aluminum bending. Purchased black doors from Vintage Technologies. Not sure where to get the trim for the roof. Still trying to locate a local RV repair place that might carry 10-12ft long trim.
Finished floor as of yesterday. Coated with APOC #109 roofing cement. Stinky and sticky. One coat directly on raw plywood then embedded APOC 4" mesh tape laid overlapping 1/4" length-wise and then coated again. In the 40s and 50s in VA now, so drying time is longer than I expected, in particular in the places where it was applied thicker.
Bought plastic washers at Lowes to add as spacers since the kit when assembled has the beams connecting the two side rails 1/8" lower. 3/8" Stainless Steel carriage bolts will be used to fasten the floor to the frame (10 around the perimeter. I also used flashing tape on the perimeter and folded on the edge of the floor. Also because the way this kit assembles, I had to measure and drill recessed space for the bolt heads on the rails. Will put a glob of silicone on each and then lower the floor onto them one rail at a time (I have some help for that step).
I'm sure I'll run into issues - TNTTT to the rescue! My biggest worry is water intrusion, so I'm going to try to be paying attention to what surface overlaps what surface based on how water flows. Have to keep in mind driving and water kind of going upwards and sideways.