I acquired a used 5x8' cargo trailer that needs some repairs and mods as I convert it to a triple use utility, kayak/canoe and camping trailer. I would do more fishing around home and be inclined to take boats with us on trips if I had an easier way to transport my canoe and/or kayak. Right now I have to struggle getting gear on top of a full-size van, so I'm considering 1 of 2 options:
1. Mount artificial rain gutters from Thule or Yakima to the side boards so I can easily move the Thule roof top rack from my full-size van to the trailer. Looks cool when on the van but it is a pain to get larger items loaded on it (no ladder on the van). Cost would be $80 for the gutter mounts.
2. Leave the rack on the van and come up with more of a "red-neck" crossbar system (pipe, 2x4's, etc.). This will be fine for the kayak and canoe but may prove problematic if I want to use bike trays, my "J-style" kayak carriers or the cargo box. Having the cargo box low on the trailer would be nice for my wife to also get to items.
I'm curious to see what others have done. For local, solo trips I could take the front and end boards off the trailer, letting the kayak sit right on the cargo floor of the trailer but that won't be ideal with family and more gear involved.
My goal is to make the trailer as versatile and convertible as possible.
Thanks!
1. Mount artificial rain gutters from Thule or Yakima to the side boards so I can easily move the Thule roof top rack from my full-size van to the trailer. Looks cool when on the van but it is a pain to get larger items loaded on it (no ladder on the van). Cost would be $80 for the gutter mounts.
2. Leave the rack on the van and come up with more of a "red-neck" crossbar system (pipe, 2x4's, etc.). This will be fine for the kayak and canoe but may prove problematic if I want to use bike trays, my "J-style" kayak carriers or the cargo box. Having the cargo box low on the trailer would be nice for my wife to also get to items.
I'm curious to see what others have done. For local, solo trips I could take the front and end boards off the trailer, letting the kayak sit right on the cargo floor of the trailer but that won't be ideal with family and more gear involved.
My goal is to make the trailer as versatile and convertible as possible.
Thanks!