Trailer Accesories???

[blueoval557]

Hey all-
As most know, I have been looking for ideas to "manufacture" on a regular basis. I want to stay in the racecar world, and I think I have found it! You know those trailer accesories that hold paper towels, quart oil containers, aerosal cans, etc.?? I realize most are made of aluminum, but what would it hurt to make them of steel sheet metal? I realize it would be a bit heavier, but if your trying to make your trailer go faster by keeping the weight down, I think you need to see a doc. I am just not sure how thick of sheet metal I should use. I would say idealy, it would be the thickness in which you save the most weight, but is not flimsy. Any suggestions? Pros and Cons of this idea??
Thanks to all who have given me advice, whether it be negative or positive, it is all greatly appreciated! Someday, when I am building world class chassis and winning races, I promise I'll mention you guys when they interview me at the end of the track HAHA
Kyle

[Trent Combs]

Racers like shiny and low maintenance - aluminum treadplate or stainless. Got Tig?

[Trent Combs]

Like http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...spagename=WDVW

or

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...spagename=WDVW

[blueoval557]

Exactly Trent, but no I dont have access to a TIG machine. I think nice shiny powdercoat would be just as appealing to MOST....or no?
Kyle

[Trent Combs]

I don't think so - look at all the treadplate toolboxes you see on pickups. Very few painted/powdercoated. Hate to be a wet blanket, but I think you'd have a hard time making them fron steel and finishing them at a price where you could compete with similar products done in treadplate (bend and weld -they're done!).

[Icemanrulz]

I am one of the few that would use (and do) sheet metal powder coated. I have to say weight is a big factor though. It is not in making the trailer faster...it is the power needed to haul it. I race motorcycles and have to carry allot of "stuff" If all my cabinets and such were steel, I would need a even bigger truck.

The stuff to make might be ... stuff to hold "odds and ends" Like I need something to hold my ramps, wheels, generator, tire warmers, .. and more. All that I can "hook" on the top rail of my trailer.
Steve

[bcraytor]

May I suggest 18 guage sheet stock as the thickest. Stuff is pretty stout, especially with some beads rolled into it. You would probably do just as well with 20 guage, Lighter and cheaper. Get the cold rolled stuff. It is more consistant in thickness and you don't have to mess with the mill scale the hot rolled stuff has. Just curious, what's wrong with using AL. (Other than cost of the material.)
Regards,
Bart

[blueoval557]

Thanks Bart. Never though of rolling beads in it. That would look pretty good! And the reason I am not going with AL is the fact I do not have access to a TIG machine.
Kyle