The Rack's Main Beam

 

 

 

Before

 

After

The axle sits precariously on stacked cement blocks.

 

The iron frame of the trailer lays across a heavy wooden beam, itself supported by a sturdy and yet flexible cradle.

 

The new beam will slide into the 6” gap between the iron frame and leaf spring. Temporary blocks widen the gap. (Drain pipe had to go. The rag directs water to a bucket.)

A sandwich of 2x6s & ½” ply, heavily glued, bolted and clamped. The 2x6s should have been clear (no knots) & age dried. Bolts & clamps should have gripped the edges.

 

The top ends were shaved & sanded so that rain would run off rather then inward.

Recesses are cut to fit the post connectors.

The finished beam (tool handles & box trailer roof) are treated with 50/50 linseed oil & mineral spirits.

 

The beam is slid between the jacked-up iron frame & leaf springs, against the wheel hubs, and positioned over the posts.

The post connectors are inserted into place. Unseen aluminum flashing was laid along the top of the beam between the trailer edges.

Steel plates have been placed beneath the contact points of the iron frame.

The trailer & beam are then let down to rest entirely on the 2 posts. Nothing breaks.

(The trailer tongue is wedged firmly into place to prevent sway.)

 

 

Rear view. (This 2 shot composite makes the beam appear domed.)

The posts are braced to each other to minimize sideways sway. The top flashing and steel plates are clearly visible in the full screen rendition.

Front view. (Single shot.)

The beam is temporarily pulled tight against the wheel hubs by a blue web clamp on the upper left.

 

 

 

Continue to the rack framing ...

 

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