HotNotch
HotNotch Reader
3/21/24 1:28 p.m.

I recently picked up a 40" x 48" HF trailer to pull behind my Mustang that I am planning on taking on Autocross Week. 

I have some plans for it, but figured it might be more informative if others (and myself) document modifications, tips, tricks, etc. on these small trailers here.

So far, tentative plans are plywood deck, lightweight telescopic roof rack / basket for a cargo box and awning, as well as trying to keep it as lightweight as possible.

 

Floating Doc (Forum Supporter)
Floating Doc (Forum Supporter) GRM+ Memberand UltimaDork
5/4/24 9:24 p.m.

Sorry to see that you haven't had a reply. I don't have personal experience with a tire trailer, but I know that one of the first things I always see recommended is to get bigger tires if it has the 8" wheels that come on many of the HF trailers. Spinning those tiny tires at highway speeds will cook the bearings.

ojannen
ojannen GRM+ Memberand HalfDork
5/4/24 9:58 p.m.

I ran one for a while including a tow to solo nats https://imgur.com/F6FzpvK

I agree on the big wheels.

If you put tires on the front, it is easier to get the tongue weight right but you need a kick stand for the back when you take the tires off.

 I like the tongue support on the Leroy trailers that folds up.  I have a folding jack/spare tire mount combo that puts a twisting force on the tongue when the trailer is in storage.  There is no triangulation there on the stock trailer and I am not a fan.

There is enough room under the trailer to slide folding chairs in front of and behind the axle if you add some brackets.

The trailer will be less bouncy if you remove a leaf.

NBL89N
NBL89N New Reader
5/22/24 3:37 p.m.

It started as a Northern Tool 40 x 48 base kit and evolved into this. 

Tire basket is a HFT hitch basket with the Hitch tube removed and I bolted it down. I use it for other things besides tires. Works great. 

NBL89N
NBL89N New Reader
5/24/24 1:54 p.m.

It works great. Although it makes it look like a hotdog cart :-), I fabricated a patio umbrella mount that is lightweight and quick to set up/ break down. The folding tongue wheel makes it easy to push around the garage, paddock, etc. Fully loaded for travel is about 440lbs, including trailer, w/ a 30lb tongue weight, although it can vary on cargo. I use this trailer for vacation touring with my Miata as well. 

Links to walk -around video on You Tube: 

https://youtu.be/LP8YNChuLNA?feature=shared

https://youtu.be/2DIUWACx478?feature=shared

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