Well, since we are going lightweight, Here's our trailer build...

[kojackJKU]

Since selling off the Wrangler and F150 and keeping the Patriot....We need some extra space for gear. I want to keep it as light as possible since the little pat is not a fire breather. So, We are going to buy this trailer.....

https://www.lowes.ca/trailers/carry...-5-ft-wire-mesh-utility-trailer_g1266963.html

And build it up to a nice little gear hauler for behind the pat. I don't think I would need much. Add some boxes inside for gear, some gas/water tanks on the outside (Rotopax will be used), and add a few other boxes etc exterior. Instead of filling in and making a cover, I am just going to use waterproof cases and mount them inside. At only 200 lbs for the trailer, plus gear I am thinking I'm not going to tip 600lbs after. So this with our camping gear, and the tire gate will not over load the hitch. I am also thinking that if it does not have enough clearance I can do a quick and easy spring over on it and gain the clearance I need. I am also going to get a set of the racks that go in back of a pickup for carrying things like bikes/kayaks etc as well. Like these....

http://www.prolineracks.com/thule-500-xsporter-pro-truck-ladder-rack-lrg.jpg

There are always a few sets of these on the classifieds site for our area and can just bolt right on the rails of the trailer. We will try that out and go from there....Never know, I may end up filling in the sides, making a flip top with shocks etc for it..ha ha.

 

[kojackJKU]

Any thoughts ideas etc would be appreciated too!

 

[teotwaki]

This one?

 

[kojackJKU]

Yissir! small lightweight....to carry tent, camping and cooking equipment.

 

[teotwaki]

I will start by saying you'd want to block the mesh area next to each wheel.

 

[kojackJKU]

Yes, I will...good eye....I would have caught that when I picked it up.....but yes..thats a given.

 

[calicamper]

Build a box that slides into the trailer. Then you have a 2 for 1 deal. Camp rig or dump run rig. Just a thought.

 

[teotwaki]

I think a large wooden box eats up too much of the small payload that the trailer can handle. Some Rubbermaid action packers and Pelican cases should protect whatever needs waterproofing and firewood and other things can go in cardboard boxes.

 

[tarditi]

Can certainly go that route - or do a harbor freight frame and storage box or a dinoot kit... or source an M417/M100 trailer - they are #500 trailers and 1/4 ton cargo capacity (they will actually carry much more, but float with #500 cargo if tubs are intact).

Personally, I would also consider something other than a ball hitch if you plan to do on much more than dirt roads and fire breaks.

 

[JJMAC]

I just fit this same thing. Got a small trailer from Tractor Supply. Added a cheap ladder rack for Yakima box. Spring over axle conversion and new 13"tires. Rotopax mounts. Will take a few pictures this weekend.

 

[kojackJKU]

Can't wait to see it JJMAC. as for the cases...I am using seahorse cases. They are awesome and quite affordable. I ran them on my KLR for luggage and they were dry as a bone every time...I ran over one with my F150 to do the pelican test and it passed with no ill effects. So, for the price of one pelican, I can have 3 seahorse cases for items...

 

[kojackJKU]

Most of the trails here are not Twist the frame type stuff....so the ball should be fine.

 

[calicamper]

I had to replace my steel 13inch wheels with Aluminum wheels. The 13s were getting wobbly. The aluminum wheels look good but even better they dont bend. So dont be surprised by end of season 1 you see some wobbly wheels in the rear view mirror.

 

[kojackJKU]

Hmmm, maybe I will swap out to aluminum wheels right away. at the price of the trailer itself, I can upgrade the tires and wheels almost right away.