OT, but race related-Trailer work, What material to enclose the trailer? Options

[groot]

So, I have an open trailer and an open car..... not the best solution.

My trailer is homemade; I made it earlier this year. I want to build a structure and use some panels or tarp or something to enclose the trailer. My trailer has a 14x6 ft deck and the enclosure will only be 4 ft high, so it can fit in a normal garage. I'll need access to the front (to tie the car down) and driver's side of the car (to get out of the trailer), as well as a door at the back.

I want to use something inexpensive and fairly lightweight.

I'm thinking 4x8 sheets of ABS plastic at .060" thick. I know where get them for ~$27/sheet. Polypro is cheaper, but probably expands too much with heat. I can work in some skylights, too, using some translucent material.

I know the "real" trailers use plywood and thin aluminum.

Any thoughts or experience?

[Brett W]

Why not build a frame out of cheap 1 inch box tubing and skin it with .035 aluminum. Use the skin to increase the strength of the structure.

[groot]

Yeah, that's the idea.

The ABS will be stressed and increase the strength.

I should price .035 alum to see if it's cheaper.

[neo914-6]

When I was in the bus mnft industry, there was a fabric (maybe a fiberglass) used on the roofs. It rolled out and was bonded with VHB 3m double stick tape (virtually permanent). Ask RV, bus, or truck mnft what materials they use and their sources. I'll ask my bus contacts. The UPS vans use a semi-translucent material on top for light.
Felix