Homemade canvas/tarp top for M1102

[Welle417]

I have been considering a "soft top" of sorts for my M 1102 for quite some time, as mine didn't come with the issued metal hoops and canvas. I eventually want to make a rack that holds a tent or similar over the trailer, but until then I decided on a different route.


My first design iteration I went all out with my thoughts on the rigidity and the shape I wanted.


Most of it is 1" pvc and some 3/4 through less crucial areas. Not set in stone, but I thought a good start... I was thinking of potential "snow weight" on top when I added all the cross pieces and the hoops... again, overkill, but I over do nearly everything for reliability sake.



I recently drove from AK to ND and will be driving within the next couple weeks about 3000 more miles around the country. I haven't had the time to do THIS particular design so I went ahead and built the beginnings of a simpler, much more accelerated idea.



Thus far it's been going well, I spent the most time trying to find a suitable mounting solution and a proper tarp to use. More to come on that. Interested to hear your thoughts.

 

[rustystud]

Clever idea ! I don't know how it will handle the wind on the road though.

 

[FloridaAKM]

PVC when cold gets real brittle, so tied with the wind, you may have a problem there, but your idea is definitely innovative! Keep us posted as to how well it works!

 

[CARNAC]

I started with metal/fiberglass HMMWV sideracks. Member 1954coe welded on an extension to the front. Some cutting and trimming and drilling of new holes and it fits pretty well. Already conceptualized a front rack using a M105 front rack but haven't started it yet. After that, use standard HMMWV bows that will be cut down a little lower. Then modify a HMMWV tarp. Id post a pic but I'm in PA and the trailer is still in TX. HOWEVER, if someone wants a picture, they can grab the trailer and drive it up here to me and I'll take a picture of it for them.

 

[Trailboss]

I think it will work great as a static cover in camp, but I worry about how it will hold up at highway speeds with the tarp on if that is your intention.

 

[Landbarger]

I'm very interested to see if this works for you. I'm currently making sidewalls for an M116A3 out of aluminum storage containers...but haven't figured out how to cap the top. If PVC works, I'll probably go that route.

 

[goldneagle]

Why not just use EMT electrical conduit or Chain link fence pipes? Also can re-utilize a tubular car port or shelter frame.