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trailer size
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Posted by: tnrider---------------------

I am looking for an enclosed trailer able to handle 4 full size bikes and equipment. What is the minimum size recommended and how to position the bikes?

Posted by: Smit-Dog---------------------

A 6x12 (v-nose is a plus) would be the minimum for 4 bikes. Buy ATK bike shoes, and position them at an angle along one wall (opposite side door, which is also a recommended option). You can space the bike shoes about 20" apart. The bars of each bike overlap near the seat of the bike next to it.

Check out the picture gallery of MX-727, or my picture gallery here:

http://community.webshots.com/album/53042528khhAnF

(Only had 1 bike shoe in at the time, but you'll get the idea.)

Posted by: MX-727---------------------

Smit, that trailer is really looking good :thumb:

Here's my link: www.mx727.com Click on the images tab.

Posted by: Smit-Dog---------------------

It should, I got most of the good ideas from you!

The re-flooring project has been side-tracked with waffling between a Line-X coating and diamond plating it. Still can't decide.

Diamond Plate
+ Lighter / Brighter interior
+ Easier to sweep out
+ Can be removed if necessary
+ Cheaper than Line-X
+ Spills can be wiped up
- Could be slipperier with cargo sliding around more

Line-X
+ Easy to install (dealer sprays it on!)
- Really darken up the interior
- Permanently attached
+/- Hard to sweep, but can hose it out
- Spills have to be washed off
+ Gripperier so things stay put

(Hey! Nice avatar Thump! Didn't realize 1 post would seal my fate!)

Posted by: tnrider---------------------

hi smit,
what is the interior dimensions of the trailer? (height-width-length) looks to be tighter than the 6'9" wide haulmark i am considering. (h-w-l 6'1"x6'9"x12'4" or 6'1"x6'9"x14'4")

also, i noticed that the v-nose addes quite a bit of hitch weight (although i do like the way you used the space) - i want to trailer with explorer/ranger both complain after above about 350-hitch/3500-trailer. i have towed above this weight but even with brakes, i have been "punted" by my 3000-lb boat. with either of the above haulmarks, i can load 1000-lbs and remain under my self-imposed 3500-lb limit (both vehicles are rated at over 5000-lbs trailer with weight-distributing-hitch -- 3500-lbs w/o).

the v-nose would likely improve mileage as the haulmarks are about 1'6" above my truck cap and a flat front will push air more...

any other advice? thanks...

Posted by: Smit-Dog---------------------

I wanted the v-nose primarily for building shelves and storage; actual mileage benefit claims to be 25%, but I haven't personally done the back-to-back comparison.

My trailer weighs 1,500lbs empty and GVWR is 2,990lbs, so you can load almost 1,500lbs. With 4 full-sized bikes, gas, gear, supplies, etc., you'd still be under 3,000lbs.

Interior Specs
Length: 11' 2"
Width: 68"
Height: 72"

Model: CVT126SI
Specs: http://www.classicmfg.com/cvtspec.asp

Do your research and consider build quality as well. I found that Classic had much better quality for around the same price as Haulmark. Wells Cargo is probably top-of-the-line in quality and components, but you will also pay top dollar for it as well.

Here's a link to a lot of other good trailer ideas/options:

http://www.dirtrider.net/forums3/sh...ghlight=Classic

Do a search in the Support Vehicles forum; you'll find tons of great advice.

(THANKS OKIE! The search function appears to be working 100% again!!!)

Posted by: MX-727---------------------

Well, you've got many more pluses under the diamond plate. After using mine for the last few months I can say that I haven't had any problems with things sliding around and the cleanup is just so easy.

I did call to get another sheet of diamond plate for a friend and the price they gave me this time was nowhere near the price I got the original sheets for. In fact the guy kind of choked when I told him what I paid. I guess they blew it the first time.

Posted by: tnrider---------------------

MX-727,

looks like you haul 5-bikes and quite some stuff in your 7x14 (interior?) trailer.

- is it tandem axel?
- electric brakes?
- what does it weigh loaded?
- what are you pulling with?
- trailer mfg?

really don't want to have to purchase a new tow vehicle yet - but likewise don't want to get a small trailer only to find is too heavy for current vehicles (98-explorer 99-ranger) and then have to purchase a larger tow vehicle - and could have purchased a large trailer with shower, etc included...

i'm playing the game of only need to haul 2-adult bikes and 2-kids bikes plus stuff (about 1000-lbs total) today -- but in a few years those kids will want full-size bikes (i hope...) -- and i will get a larger vehicle then...

basically, i really "need" the chev-dully 3500 and 24' trailer w/ camper package...

Posted by: mx547---------------------

Quote:

Originally posted by tnrider
basically, i really "need" the chev-dully 3500 and 24' trailer w/ camper package...

we can dream, can't we?

Posted by: Zerotact---------------------

I was concidering ripping out my wood floor that was rotting and replace it with diamond plate. Hoping to reduce some weight... etc... But I am concerned about the corrosive action when you use 2 dissimilar metals.......
My trailer is an enclosed snowmobile trailer, steel frame and galvanized steel shell. I was really hoping to reduce the weight somehow....

Posted by: Smit-Dog---------------------

The diamond plating is surprisingly thin. Most of what I was quoted was 1/8" (.625) thick. Bendable for sure, but meant to be laid down over a firm, supporting surface like 3/4" plywood.

Replace your floorboards with marine-grade plywood, and coat the plywood with some sort of polyurethane to further protect it.

Posted by: EdLennon---------------------

Todd (MX-727)

I looked at all the photos in your gallery. Very nice! You have sparked some ideas for me to get some work done in my box van.

I was particularly interested in 2 things you did:

1) that fold up bench - any info on how you did it and materials used

2) the foam stuff you use in your toolbox - where do you get it?

Thanks for any info,
Ed Lennon

Posted by: MX-727---------------------

Let's see:

Tandem axle with electric brakes.

It's a Pace Cargo Sport.

I was towing it with a '93 1/2 ton GMC with a 305/5.0. Now I'm using a F-350 PowerStroke.  No problems with the smaller truck, but I wouldn't want to go any smaller. 

No idea what it weighs. I've been meaning to weigh it though.

The fold up bench is just plywood and 1x6's. It was kind of trial and error, but it seems to be working. I used some heavy duty door hinges (4 inch, I believe). The trick little touch is the latches that hold it up. I found some latches that use adjustable ball bearings to grab the tang that is mounted to the wall. The picture of the bench doesn't show it, but I tied the three legs togheter with another 1 x 6 to make it easier to pull the legs out when setting it up.

The foam is straight from Sears. Most stores have it, you can do two drawers with one package. $15 for the pack. http://www.sears.com/sr/product/sum...pid=00965417000

Posted by: John Harris---------------------

I note that most of you are using 6' interiors. It has been my experience that you will like to use your trailer more if you have 7' interiors so you don't bump your head all the time. Yes, I know that it creates more air drag, but your trailer has much more utility for dressing, working, etc.

Posted by: Smit-Dog---------------------

Well, at 5'9", I like my 6' interior just fine...

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trailer size

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