29. Rodney Builds a Tailgate

After studying the hatch designs the Bravo and Charlie teardrop trailers will be fitted with tailgates. The first step was to make a pattern for the ribs to be used in the construction of the tailgate. Rodney then cut out five ribs out of ¾” poplar hardwood. The ribs were attached to a ½” piece of plywood that is the width of the tailgate. The ribs were then covered with three layers of 1/8” plywood. The first and second layers were secured to the ribs with screws and the last layer was glued on and held in place with every clamp we could find.

The Bravo trailer has had the tailgate attached with a 3”wide continuous hinge. The tailgate will swing under the rear of the trailer and allow easier access to the kitchenette area.