Trailer Tarp--Budget Conscious

[npalen]

The reel is made of 1-1/2" (approx 1-3/4" OD) steel EMT (ElectroMechanicalTubing) with a 1/4" slit nibbled lengthwise to capture one end of the tarp. The gray parts are 3D Printed ABS and the "hubs" are pressed into the ends of the EMT. In use the tarp is unrolled back over the trailer sideboards (5/4 x 6" treated decking) and then tarp strapped to the tailgate to keep it under tension as the load settles. It is stored in the hooks as shown.

The tarp is the type normally used by attaching to a chain link fence for privacy or windbreak.

 

[Gordon Gould]

Amazing what you do with that "printer".

gg

 

[npalen]

Amazing what you do with that "printer".

gg

Thanks! The printer opens up a whole new world of design opportunities.

 

[solo machine]

What a great and inexpensive ideal! I'll be making this setup for my dump trailer.

 

[npalen]

Awesome! This setup is a bit different from kits that use a pair of ball bearings to roll up the tarp where mine just uses the sideboards as rails to roll and unroll. The front of the tarp is secured to the front board with clips like shown below but could be done by other means.

Amazon.com

 

[jigs_n_fixtures]

The reel is made of 1-1/2" (approx 1-3/4" OD) steel EMT (ElectroMechanicalTubing) with a 1/4" slit nibbled lengthwise to capture one end of the tarp. The gray parts are 3D Printed ABS and the "hubs" are pressed into the ends of the EMT. In use the tarp is unrolled back over the trailer sideboards (5/4 x 6" treated decking) and then tarp strapped to the tailgate to keep it under tension as the load settles. It is stored in the hooks as shown.

The tarp is the type normally used by attaching to a chain link fence for privacy or windbreak. View attachment 2362594View attachment 2362595View attachment 2362596

Do you have the 3d models posted anywhere?

 

[RayIN]

Do you have the 3d models posted anywhere?

Check out thingverse.com and Pinshape.com

 

[bcp]

What keeps the axle in the J hooks when traveling and rolled up?

Bruce

 

[D&D]

What keeps the axle in the J hooks when traveling and rolled up?

Bruce

I was wondering what keeps it from unrolling while traveling too.

 

[bmaverick]

Awesome! This setup is a bit different from kits that use a pair of ball bearings to roll up the tarp where mine just uses the sideboards as rails to roll and unroll. The front of the tarp is secured to the front board with clips like shown below but could be done by other means.

Amazon.com

WOW, a better price than any of the camping RV sites for holding down the retractable awning canopy!

The carabiners would fit the tarp holes perfectly!

 

[tacticalturnip]

That's extremely cool, very well done.