M416 Military Trailer Off-road Build

With a family of 3 and 2 dogs I decided that I needed a better way to haul gear than over loading the roof rack. After some investigation I discovered that people were modifying old military M416 trailers for off-road use. This looked like a good option for me. Trailers that a specifically built for off road use are usually well over $6000.00 which is way beyond my means.

It took me about a year to locate a basic M416 here in Colorado Springs. The one I found already had a new 3000lb axle with 6 on 5 1/2 hubs installed. I was able to purchase this trailer for under $1000.00 and my project was underway.

Even thought this project is well underway, over the next few weeks I will be adding posts detailing the work that I have completed on the M416 to get it ready to tow behind the FJ Cruiser.

The modifications that I have made are listed here with links to those post as I write them:

  • Cleaned and Painted the frame
  • Added tailgate to tub.
  • Painted the Tub.
  • Painted inside of tub with bed liner.
  • Converted hubs to metric lugs.
  • Added LED Tail lights and maker lights
  • Mounted LP Tank on front of trailer
  • Replaced the spring shackle pivot bolts.
  • Added fender flares to accomidate wider tires.
  • Fabricated brackets to hold small amo cans behind fender on side of tub.
  • Extended jack stand to accommodate lift.

Still to be completed:

  • Add water tanks under tub to help ballast the trailer.
  • Add 2 2.5 gal fuel cans in front of fenders.
  • Consider adding built in roll out kitchen.

tomas

Tomas has lived in Colorado since age 5. Having grown up on the Western Slope of Colorado lots of time was spent in the Desert Southwest. Tomas' father introduced him to the love of 4 wheeling at an early age in the high mountains around Aspen, Colorado. While an avid Mountain Biker, Tomas and his Family enjoy adventures in the mountains and desert in the remote locations that can only be reached by 4wd. Day hikes are always a must when on the family trips. While enjoying outdoor activities he wants to share his love as a certified 4wd trainer and ski instructor. Tomas also enjoys caving and cave exploration. Tomas currently resides in Colorado Springs. 

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