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Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 265
Learner Plates Off!
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OP
Learner Plates Off!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 265 |
An update: Just settled on the Alcom/Cargo Pro/Stealth 7x14' + 2' V, all-aluminum, dual axle, leaf springs, aluminum wheels, brakes, seamless siding, extended ramp, RV-style door trailer. For me, dual-axle made sense for redundancy, especially on long touring hauls. Torsion axles were preferred but not essential given the M3W's suspension and light payload weight. This extra 3x7'+V will allow for built in's and storage. All in, we're right at 4,000 pounds before customization so wont even be noticed by my RAM 2500 diesel and can still be towed by almost any vehicle.
For now, two (2) 3' sections of e-track are installed. The M3W drives directly over the top and secures via Erickson e-track chocks and wheel nets. Its rear is secured side-side by D-rings and ratchet straps. This is all temporary as the goal is to finish out the interior, including 12-volt solar/battery/inverter power and LED everything, insulation, ventilation, RV windows, nice flooring, etc. and switch to recessed L-tracks. The exterior will appear more as a horse trailer with full length diamond plate running boards, a full length RV-style awning and perhaps a marine-type shower/ wash down system.
The idea is to convert it into a cozy 'lounge' with occasional overnight accommodations and be able to store, clean and detail the M3W outside under the awning. It will also be used to haul racing sculls to rowing regatta's and have a place to nap and entertain. The rear ramp will become a patio. Think of this as a tiny-house version of ithinkibrokit's beautiful toy hauler. For my needs, it had to be short enough to navigate tight, historic neighborhood streets, long enough to serve as an ad-hoc hotel room, plus track straight/smoothly on long hauls to rally's and regattas.
I promise photo's as soon as I tackle how to post them.
'17 M3W: '08 Ural Gear-Up
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Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 57
Just Getting Started
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Just Getting Started
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 57 |
Sounds like you got a great trailer and are on the way to making it even better, congratulations!
7x14 is definitely a REALLY good sweet spot in terms of size. I miss the agility of a smaller trailer with the 8.5x20 trailer for sure. All the time when I was trailer shopping I constantly kept asking myself what I value more: Being comfy when stopped or being comfy when towing. The amenities of the bigger trailer are nice but I've found I really have to change and adapt my driving style when not on the highway compared to a smaller setup.
Also gotta say I love L-track, that's the way to go. Maybe, in the grand scheme of things, it isn't "better" but it feels slicker and you can really dial in locations of stuff due to the smaller footprint.
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Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 265
Learner Plates Off!
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OP
Learner Plates Off!
Joined: Nov 2018
Posts: 265 |
Sounds like you got a great trailer and are on the way to making it even better, congratulations!
7x14 is definitely a REALLY good sweet spot in terms of size. I miss the agility of a smaller trailer with the 8.5x20 trailer for sure. All the time when I was trailer shopping I constantly kept asking myself what I value more: Being comfy when stopped or being comfy when towing. The amenities of the bigger trailer are nice but I've found I really have to change and adapt my driving style when not on the highway compared to a smaller setup.
Also gotta say I love L-track, that's the way to go. Maybe, in the grand scheme of things, it isn't "better" but it feels slicker and you can really dial in locations of stuff due to the smaller footprint. Egg Zactly. Every trailer is a compromise. At 7' wide, this is tight but for me, the extra wee bit of length gives it broader utility...perhaps just enough. Seems like even a 16'+V, becomes navigationally borderline. At that point, might as well jump straight into the proper toy hauler as you did. By the way, a 'proper' toy hauler wasn't on my radar until I saw a 28' ATC unit with a queen bedroom...wow. Before I ever spent 2x on an Airstream, that would be it! You chose well. For now, agreed, this one feels like the sweet spot. If not, it has other uses. E-track is versatile but industrial. In a small trailer, it's visually overpowering. L-track is elegant and I wish I had seen it first. Oh well, just a few holes to patch after this inaugural road trip.
'17 M3W: '08 Ural Gear-Up
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Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,363 Likes: 11
Has a lot to Say!
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Has a lot to Say!
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,363 Likes: 11 |
I bought a bike trailer rated for three full dressers. Single axle with no springs with a steel skirt on the front to block road debris. 3 Steel wheel chocks in front. I removed the middle one and moved the two outboards closer to the front end exactly 60" apart on center. I tie the front down on the lower wishbones mostly to keep the front end snugged to the wheel chocks. Then another strap from the side of the rear through the rear wheel and wrapped around once to the other side. In all cases car is allowed to bounce due to the road and the frame is left alone. I might turn off the road about a mile after starting to tighten down everything.
Have never had a problem. I can drive right in and snug up against the wheel chocks. I highly recommend a line on the drivers side on the ramp and bed for the front tire to follow.
What's your mileage? Who cares. Is it practical? See #1. What happens when it rains? You get wet.
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Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 135
L - Learner Plates On
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L - Learner Plates On
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 135 |
I bought a bike trailer rated for three full dressers. Single axle with no springs with a steel skirt on the front to block road debris. 3 Steel wheel chocks in front. I removed the middle one and moved the two outboards closer to the front end exactly 60" apart on center. I tie the front down on the lower wishbones mostly to keep the front end snugged to the wheel chocks. Then another strap from the side of the rear through the rear wheel and wrapped around once to the other side. In all cases car is allowed to bounce due to the road and the frame is left alone. I might turn off the road about a mile after starting to tighten down everything.
Have never had a problem. I can drive right in and snug up against the wheel chocks. I highly recommend a line on the drivers side on the ramp and bed for the front tire to follow. Do you by chance know the make and model of the chocks? I was concerned about hitting the front fenders with chocks..
2019 M3W 110 Anniversary Black Previous: 2005 Plus 8
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Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,363 Likes: 11
Has a lot to Say!
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Has a lot to Say!
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,363 Likes: 11 |
The wheel chocks are only 10" high and only hit the rubber. They are made of one piece bent steel by the trailer manufacturer. I had to measure precisely to set the chocks as this particular trailer has a steel front skirt. I have 6 inches clearance in front as well as the back. The ramp folds in half in the upright position.
This trailer is a total kludge just like the Morgan. It works.
What's your mileage? Who cares. Is it practical? See #1. What happens when it rains? You get wet.
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