The Fore Frame & Decking


Once the side rail of the trailer rack is in, the 1^st phase of the deck is framed, providing easier access to the trailer door.		The box trailer's tire stands loose to make sure adequate space is cut into the deck for future mounting of the tire.

View from the rear.	A long stringer is hung to begin phase 2 of the forward framing.	Minimal nailing secures the redwood decking. When the forward framing is done, this will be rearranged by pattern & available lengths.


The framing of phase 2 is done.	This block is temporary support for loosely laid pieces of decking (not shown) while I work out overhangs, spacing, etc.

The steel plate assures that as the wood dries, shrinks & loosens over time, it will still remain firmly attached.	The inner connections will gradually absorb shrinkage; no steel plate needed; the decking itself will hold them together.	The idea is to use minimal steel; each screw or nail invites a split in the wood. The 3 holes on the right were incorrectly drilled due to poor planning.

	As at the other end of this long stringer, the steel plate assures that this end will remain firmly attached, allowing for shrinkage.	The exposed corner is bent inward so future groping hands won't get jabbed. 2 exposed holes are enlarged to drain rain water.

Almost all joints are connected with steel hangers and/or long screws; very few nails were used.


An evenly bent PVC pipe (originally used to reach & vacuum rust out of the water tank ) & an extension cord serve as a template for marking the curve of the deck.	The curve is cut with a saber saw and the scrap fills in the gaps. It is sanded even with a belt sander. The edges are smoothed with a sanding block and the ends treated with 50/50 linseed oil/mineral spirits.
		Continue to the aft deck ...