CARRY-ON TRAILER 3.5x5-FT UTILITY TRAILER
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- čas přidán 16. 07. 2024
- My Carry-On Trailer 3.5x5-ft utility trailer transformation, plus Herculiner anti-skid coating. Skip to 16:45 if you're here only for the Herculiner comments. I bought this Carry-On Trailer, model 3.5X5LSHS, from Lowes and immediately began to transform it to suit my needs. I frequently get the question, "Did you build that?" The honest answer is no, but there's not much of the original trailer left. Watch the video to learn more.
My Amazon Storefront: www.amazon.com/shop/stealthgti
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:54 Model Info
1:05 Floor and Walls
1:34 Lid
2:27 Wheels, Tires, and Fenders
4:21 Suspension Upgrade
5:02 LED Lighting Upgrade
6:32 Holes for Racks
7:10 Winch
8:43 Axle Upgrade
9:57 It's a Trash Can
10:43 Coupling
12:55 Lid Retention
13:23 Why a Trailer?
15:37 Backing the Trailer
16:47 Herculiner Bed Liner
Equipment featured in this video:
My Baby Trailer at StealthGTI.com - wp.me/P7YnQB-bI
Carry-On Trailers 3.5x5LSHS Utility Trailer - bit.ly/3doIn6R
Fulton Fenders - bit.ly/37TAMfn
Bores Guide Post Lamps - bit.ly/316cPjD
4-Leaf Slipper Springs - bit.ly/2Ysx5dx
Dutton-Lainson 2000-lb Hand Winch - bit.ly/2YUWD1G
Yakima Outdoorsman 300 - amzn.to/31bktcC
2200-lb Galvanized Dexter Axle - bit.ly/3eua5Ae
Mods to the car and links to blog write-ups (all links go to my blog, most are shortened):
APR Programming with Downpipe and Intercooler - wp.me/P7YnQB-dP
RSR Clutch w/DMF by HS Tuning - wp.me/p7YnQB-su
Steel Oil Pan - wp.me/p7YnQB-wv
Lots of Electronics - stealthgti.com/electronics/
EcoHitch by TorkLift - wp.me/P7YnQB-hW
Group 48 AGM Battery - wp.me/p7YnQB-1ev
Gun Metal Gray Nogaro Wheels - wp.me/p7YnQB-Dg
Various Accessories - stealthgti.com/accessories/
My Camera Setup:
Samsung Galaxy S9+ for Close-Quarters
Canon 80D Video Creator Kit - amzn.to/36EJDiG
Rode VideoMic - amzn.to/2RyOYnk
Lapel Microphone for Smartphone - amzn.to/3aU5Dt5
ZOMEi 75'' Tripod - amzn.to/3aRYBFl
Neewer Camera LED Video Light - amzn.to/36Dbznc
Studio Lighting - amzn.to/36uEycM
Visit me at StealthGTI.com.
Visit my Facebook page at / stealthgti
Visit my Instagram page at / stealth_gti
DISCLAIMER: StealthGTI is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Affiliate, I may receive a small commission from Amazon if you purchase a product or service with a link that I provide. There is no additional charge to you!
#stealthgti #carryontrailers #3.5x5LSHS - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Amazing!!!!!! Cannot find this trailer for sale any more!!!!!!
I visited my local Lowe's to see if they had any in stock after receiving an e-mail about these trailers. There's usually several, but they're picked clean; no trailers of any size at all! I searched a few other sources that I'm aware of... NOTHING. I called one trailer dealer who said that Carry-On is operating at ~60% capacity and speculated that they're churning out their better sellers. I wasn't sure if that's true, especially considering that there are NO trailers at Lowe's. So, I called Carry-On to see what they had to say. The Covid-19 shutdowns have put them far behind schedule. They continue to suffer personal shortages at their HQ and seven manufacturing facilities around the country, as well as supply chain shortages. Their rep told me that serious shoppers should be able to special order the trailer of their choice from stores that would normally carry them. This cannot be done online; it must be done in person. With a special order in the queue, the trailer will be made for YOU and not snatched-up by another customer. The downside is it will take around nine weeks, despite what the seller may tell you. This apparent trailer shortage may explain why the pricing has gone up again and signals that perhaps I should take precautions beyond my currently double-locked tongue to ensure that my prized trailer is not stolen. :-(
Thanks for visiting.
@@StealthGTI I’m headed to Lowe’s for some lighting today and thought I’d check with customer service. One Lowe’s within an hour from here says they carry them, but none in stock......so, I’ll figure it out. Thank you for the amazing vid and super thoughtful response.
@@michaelmiller6574 - Glad to help. Please follow-up with your purchase experience. I've pinned your comment at the top of this feed so other viewers can see how to get one of these trailers during a shortage. Thanks!
@@StealthGTI so, I went to my local Lowes to see about ordering one. They don’t stock it, so she couldn’t order it, however, she was nice enough to look around the area. She actually found one just over an hour away. I’ve just picked it up. One light didn’t work (electrical pulled out, easy fix) so I got a $60 discount......that brought it down from $498 to $438.
So, for anyone who wants one, go to your local Lowes and ask them to check the surrounding area for stock.
Thank you so much for your help @StealthGTI. Links to your lights and guide posts would be wonderful!!!
@@michaelmiller6574 - That's great news! I don't have links for the guideposts or LED lighting. I probably got the tail lights at a local auto parts store. I got the guideposts at a truck stop and cut to them an appropriate length (they're way too long when new). Later, I got these sealed lights to replace the water-damaged lights that I had purchased at the truck stop: www.boresmfg.com/shop/led-light-kit-2-light-assemblies-red-140r2/. I don't know if anyone sell guideposts with red LEDs already installed. Take Care!
I have a Prius and I love glamping and I think this trailer will be the perfect fix for my need for more room!! So excited to find this video
So glad it's been helpful! I'm on the verge of doing some glamping and trying to figure out which way to go. I have this trailer and a tiny cargo trailer that I converted. This "baby trailer" is fantastic. Unfortunately, the 3.5x5 has been tough to find in the wake of COVID. But they CAN be ordered. I think I have a pinned comment under this video with details. I'll address your other comments in a few minutes. Thanks for visiting!
That is one awesome little trailer. I’m gonna buy one and retro-fit it for what I want to do. Great information. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Nice remake and mod! Thanks for showing it to us!
Glad you like it! Thanks for visiting.
Very detailed ! Thank you !
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting.
Love this tailer can’t wait to build my own
Thanks! When it's not on the road, I use it to collect broken-down shipping boxes until it's full enough to justify a trip to a collection site. Take Care!
I just scored the same utility trailer, similarly equipped as yours minus the cool wheels and fenders on offerup. Can't wait to use them for random small furniture, Home Depot runs
Excellent! I just used mine to transport some cinderblocks from HD. It was perfect! Thanks for visiting!
Awesome!! I'm from Australia and we really don't have any small trailers like this.... Well we do but they are called "luggage trailers" and kick off around $2000 US which is rediculous.
Apart from custom trailers, our trailers start off at 6x4 foot.... And the bedliner would cost Doble down here. Love the videos mate.... Keen to keep making my way through!!
Thanks! I really appreciate your comments and viewership. Take Care!
Awesome build!
I appreciate that! Thanks for visiting.
Cool little trailer 🙂Nice job!
Thanks for visiting!
Thank you so much for giving me substance to subscribe to.
I'm glad you enjoy my work. Thanks for visiting!
The VW centercap and those wheels look cool.
Thanks! I used to have some VW alloys on the trailer. But I decided to switch to standard trailer wheels so that I wouldn't feel mismatched depending on what car is pulling it. I don't think a set of GTI wheels will fit without rubbing. Regardless, I like these just fine. Thanks for visiting.
I just sold my 2014 Tundra and kept my '17 Yukon XL with gas prices on the rise and price for vehicles ridiculously high, it made sense for me to let it go, I found more use from hauling my family around than hauling stuff and will be getting my hands on a small trailer to suit my cargo needs thanks for sharing your setup
Glad it was helpful! My 3.5x5 is fairly small. If I had sold a pickup truck, I might consider a 4x6 or 5x8, just to maintain a similar capability. Regardless, nothing would stay stock! LOL! Thanks for visiting!
exactly 4x6 would be great I might want it to be as lite as possible thanks again I love your trailer design and coating great job
I love that undersized load sticker😂
HAHA! Thanks! I need to capture a photograph of the car/trailer parked beside an "Oversize Load."
Dido.
Clever sarcasm
Great video . Trailer is awsome
Thanks for visiting!
Thanks for this video! New subscriber from Woodbridge VA. All very clever and useful mods on your channel, helpful for other Mk7 owners like myself :). Your daughter is too cool...auto tech and a corpsman! 👍🏻👍🏻 Dad 😎is cool too!
Awesome, thank you! Not sure where I said that my daughter is a corpsman, which is a military medic. If you're referring to her being in the Marine Corps, they prefer to be called "Marines." No offense here; just clarifying terms. Thanks for the compliments and welcome to the channel!
The swiss army knife of trailers. You've accomplished so much with that little thing. I'm looking at modifying it for a mobile detailing business. Based on what you've accomplished with it I think I'll be able to accomplish what I need from it.
I think it would be an awesome detailing trailer. Add a set of hinges at the front and a prop rod at the back. Build dividers inside for different tools, liquids, towels/pads, etc, and you'd be golden. Just be sure to add a grated floor or use buckets in your dividers because rainwater will likely seep past the lid and wet the floor. The only reason I don't have a hinged lid is because of my occasional need to carry loads that are taller than the box. I may still look into a hinge that's easily removed... I like the idea that much. Thanks for visiting.
@@StealthGTI Thanks for the tips. Question. Was replacing the tires with bigger tires a simple swap on the original axle or were you only able to do that because you replaced the entire axle?
@@billy.bright - Original axle works fine. However, the fenders need to go. The surprise is that they're welded. I took the trailer to a shop and had them cut off and ground. The replacements are plastic; so, no welding.
@@StealthGTI thank you for your responses!
I like your attention to detail and design improvements.
I can reverse a caravan but short trailers are really hard, everything happens so fast and they are hard to see behind the vehicle, you've got manoeuvring up your drive to a fine art. 👍
DSG gearboxes.....mines dsg and its great BUT I wished vw had invested millions in developing a torque converter based transmission as overall I don't like it. It still uses clutches, as mines a GTI it's a 7 speed wet clutch transmission..... the clutches (x2) run in an oil bath on wet clutch system, but its still friction that's doing the work. The dsg shifts up and down super fast but when you're crawling slowly up a multi story car park you get the whine from the transmission and backlash too, it just lacks refinement that a torque converter box gives you. It's great when you can't be bothered doing the shifting. Runs from the traffic lights are just so easy. But as a engineer I find it lacking and when pushing on really hard I miss the driver engagement. Yes you've got manual mode but even that doesn't do as you'd like, for instance.... . putting your foot down from the lights in a 7 speed dsg will see 1st gear last no time and if you're foot is hard down it will fly but so will the revs. If you want to put you're foot down really hard and just use low down torque select manual mode and flick the paddles, oh but vw have decided in their wisdom you don't know what you're doing. So you might think, I know it takes a quarter of a second to realise I've asked for an upshift so plan that and shift at full throttle at 1700rpm, it just ignores that input until about 2000rpm when you have to tell it again to shift up as it doesn't remember the request..... as a driver of the old school I find this sometimes infuriating. Overall when pushing on hard I miss the lack of driver engagement, before you commit try one for a good long weekend, I wouldn't have another which is a slight problem as they now don't offer a manual in the UK on the GTI. I also run an Sc430 with a torque converter box on a 2009, gearshifts aren't quite as fast as the GTI DGS but what it looses in that it makes up for in overall refinement..... no noisy cogs, whines and backlash. Don't get me wrong the SC is no drivers car, my GTI would leave it miles behind on a twisty road but boy do I wish VW had invested in a torque converter box rather than dsg.
Thanks for your comments. I've made parking my "baby trailer" an artform. Check out my "Stunt Parking" page for some examples of trailer-parking-witchcraft. ;-) stealthgti.com/stunt-parking/
I have a bone stock Mark 7 2015 GTI. Yours sounds so much better than mine does.
Thanks! I'm on the verge of installing an exhaust upgrade. Keep an eye out for the video.
Haha, jeez they are asking $1,400cdn now! Also, I just seen your review on Lowe’s website. Not many choices in the used market. I currently have installed a class 1 Reese hitch on my 2017 Bolt LT. Then a basic CURT cargo tray carrier but need to get wired lights as it covers my low turn signals. I would now like to bring 2 adult bikes/Chariot/toddler bikes. I do not want to deal with roof racks, so your video convinced me to buy this trailer.
Holy cow! That's quite a mark-up. I guess they pay a healthy import fee to get their products into Canada, which is then passed along to the consumer. Oddly enough, I've been looking at slightly larger trailers and can get a 5x8 tilt bed for just a little more than you're seeing for the tiny 3.5x5. WOW! Good Luck with your purchase!
Excellent Thx
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for visiting!
Could you do a little how to video on how you changed your leaf springs, and installed your LED brake lights? I'm new to all this and could use some guidance lol
Unfortunately, creating such a video would require me to re-do the work of swapping springs or lights (even if only one side) in order for the video to be effective. Here, I'll say that the jobs are relatively easy, so long as you practice some safety steps. I supported the rear of the trailer with jack stands and had the trailer coupled to the car for stability. I worked on one side at a time. After removing the wheel, I supported the axle with a jack before removing any fasteners. Slipper springs are very easy to replace once the trailer is supported. As for the lights, the wires are color-coded and easy to get right. Perhaps I'll do a video at some point; but it won't be until I have problems with my current equipment. That could take a while. ;-) Thanks for visiting.
Great thanks! I would like to see how you attached the bicycle racks to the trailer. We travel back and forth from the central Virginia to the Rio Grand valley in S. Texas with a small SUV and I want to build a small trailer for extra cargo plus 2 bicycles. Thanks. Have a blessed day.
The bikes were on a shorter rack that I haven't used in a while. To be honest, I don't recommend carrying bicycles anywhere but IN the trailer. The ride back there can be rough and even violent. I had a bike slip out of its fork mount. It was an obsolete design, which may have been at fault, but I think the constant vibration and lateral movement also played a part. Thankfully, the rear wheel strap held long enough for me to pull over and stop. IF you secure the bikes inside the trailer, at least they're more likely to fall to the floor instead of the road. I would hope that the newer breed to dual-wheel clinchers with wider base may work better than my fork mounts. Good Luck!
sweet!
Thanks!
Awesome
Thanks! Glad you liked it!
Sweet trailer! I'm looking at Tiguans and the collapsible trailer from harbor freight. I could store the trailer in my shed and modify it to fit my needs, and it's only 400 bucks! Some co-workers have one and say it works great
Thanks! Regarding your trailer choice, do some research on the "micro trailers" from Harbor Freight and Northern Tool before you buy. It's not listed on their website or on the store flyers, but a quick look in their owners manuals reveals that those trailers, while DOT legal, are speed rated to only 45 mph. I'm not sure why that is, but you should keep it in mind. I have photos of the applicable pages on this page on my website: stealthgti.com/2019/03/18/pros-and-cons-of-various-cargo-transport-methods/. Thanks for visiting.
@@StealthGTI thanks for the tip! I'll do some more digging in options that are out there. Luckily for me, anything I would need the trailer for is within a mile or two from my house and all under 40 mph roads to get there. Anything bigger or farther I can borrow my dad's truck so I should be good!
Very NICE!
Semper Fi to your daughter.
Always! Thanks for visiting.
Great trailer, actually just got mine yesterday and yours is very close what I need to do on mine. Did you use any kind of adapter to change the wheels?
There may be two or three photos in the video in which I have VW wheels mounted. I used adapters for those, but I don't recommend them. I think they're a hassle at maintenance time. I have standard black trailer wheels mounted. The hub caps are just generic caps from etrailer.com. I put VW emblem stickers on them to complete a look. Thanks for visiting!
Awsome
Thanks for visiting!
Your welcome
Great detailed video boss...I would love to see a video of you installing the trailer hitch on the Golf. I have a 2020 Hyundai GT N Line and I’m boggled on how it going to fit when my defuser is very low, I’m looking to get a enclosed trailer or just build one myself...I need it as light as I can bc we are planning to relocate from Ontario to Alberta...any tips tricks or any advice you can give to make the trip a success would be greatly appreciated, thanks
Thanks! As for tips, I think balancing the trailer load so that the heaviest items are over the axle, or slightly in front, is ideal for stability. Have a look at my "Trailering FAQ" video at czcams.com/video/vi2AkvPhZtQ/video.html if you haven't already seen it. Thanks for visiting!
looks good, i'm looking at the low's trailer and like your idea of up sizing the wheels, are they the same lug size as a car so i can get a wheel from a wrecking yard.
Thanks! They are not the same bolt pattern. You'll need adapters to adapt the trailer's 5x4.5" pattern to 5x112mm. I used to have that, but decided it wasn't worth the extra effort. I just use standard trailer wheels now.
You've helped me a lot you really know you're trailer stuff and you're showing me vision I have a Camry I want to pull a couple of motorcycles and some camping equipment and I would like to get some landscape rocks. How much does your trailer weigh? And what do you think the max trailer weight should be for a car that can tow a thousand pounds?
Thanks for writing, Jaysen! My trailer weighs around 500-lbs empty. The wood adds a bit of weight, as does the extra bed rack. After years of service, my wood has a bit of rot and needs to be replaced. I MAY replace only the floor and leave the sides uncovered (stock). That will reduce the weight a bit. Anyway, that's not what you asked. ;-) Describing your car as "a car that can two 1,000 lbs," are you saying that your owner's manual allows for 1,000 lbs? If yes, then an engineer determined that to be a safe limit for your transmission. I'm pointing out the transmission since it seems to be a good reason for the relatively low towing limit. My owner's manual does not list limits. So, I use the UK towing limits as a guide, which is 1,500 lbs without trailer brakes. I have a manual transmission with a clutch upgrade. Take care!
those bird deterants are brillant.
HAHA! Thanks for visiting!
What’s the lug pattern for new rims? And did you upgrade the axles? Did you need spacers to fit them tires and rims?
The lug pattern is the same as stock, 5x4.5. The axle is upgraded, but it was due to a maintenance error and not due to a need to clear the larger tires. I don't need spacers, but I did need to install larger fenders to clear the larger tires. See all the specs at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. Thanks for visiting!
Fantastic trailer, very-well put together. Can you build one for me? I'd use it as a travel trailer and put the rooftop tent on it.
Thanks! I didn't build it; I only transformed it. Start by finding one that's available. Apparently, that alone is half the battle. Good Luck!
Really like the end product. If you were to start again would you start with the same 3.5x5 trailer and do the mods or take a different route? Thanks
If I was to do it again, I think I'd go with a 4x6 or a 5x8. The reason is because this trailer is too small to carry a sheet of plywood or sheet rock. I don't need that capacity very often and it's not worth selling the trailer now; but that's what I'd get if I was in the market today. Thanks for visiting.
How did you attach the new fenders? You said they're plastic, so did you just rivet them on or what? Great video. I just ordered this same trailer and look forward to doing some of the mods you've shown here.
Before adding the plywood walls, I used a set of straps that are used for remote oil or transmission coolers. I have a photo at bit.ly/2ZiCvIq. This photo was taken before I trimmed-off the cables. I used them instead of a nut and bolt because my (then) wide tires wouldn't have cleared a bolt. Today, I would cut the bolt if it wasn't for me having thinner tires than before. Now that I have the wooden box, I use 1" wood screws to hold the fenders in place. There's also a layer of adhesive between the fender and trailer, but that's more to keep leaves and debris out of the edges than any sort of physical bond. I hope that makes sense. Thanks for visiting.
Your trailer is a perfect template for me. I'm always coming back to your video for more mods. I got the 13 " wheels and of course the fenders are to small. That's going to be next on the list . Your fenders are bolted in? Also I really like how you installed the spare tire under the trailer. What bracket did you use and how did you secure it considering that is just a steel mesh under the trailer.
P.S. What are your thoughts on having a tongue box installed?
Thank you
Have a great day
Thanks for writing, Erwin! Since the sides are mesh and the walls are 3/4" plywood, my fenders are screwed into the wooden sides with 1-inch wood screws. Carriage bolts with anti-rotation washers would work, too. For the spare tire, I chose this carrier (amzn.to/3FaCPeu) and fed it from the top. Your concern about the mesh floor is valid because the mesh is weak. Knowing this, laying a 1/2" sheet of plywood over the mesh was my first priority when I bought the trailer. Regarding a tongue box, I opted against one because it would become an impact hazard when backing. The tongue on this trailer is so short that it wouldn't take much for a tongue box is hit the car's bumper while backward maneuvering. I could consider an ammo can, mounted with the tire carrier shared above, but nothing larger than that. Take Care!
Thank you do much for your input and the link. Always appreciated.
Have a great weekend
love the undersized load
Thanks for visiting!
Hi StealthGTI - I watched your CARRY-ON TRAILER 3.5x5-FT UTILITY TRAILER is awesome. I have a question? What is the size of the wheel rim you are using on the utility trailer? Thank you
For now, I'm using a set of 14" wheels so that I can use a set of 195/60R14 passenger radials that I had bought for a previous car and never used. I will replace them at some point with a set of ST175/80R13, which is a proper trailer tire for this trailer. See more at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. Thanks for visiting!
Wonderful video! Really helped with my decision making... the only problem is that since this is no longer available, or extremely hard and expensive to get hold of, would you recommend going smaller to the 40" x 48" or bigger to the 4' x 6'? Anyone can answer and I would really appreciate any advice!
Thank you! I would choose a 4x6 over a 40x48 for three reasons: 1) There are times when I wish that I had just a *little* more floor space. Being able to lay a sheet of plywood flat in the trailer would be nice. I think a 40x48 would leave you wanting for more. 2) Backing an even shorter trailer would be more difficult than the 4x6. 3) Look at the owner's manuals for any 40x48" trailer that you may be considering. I found that the ones from Harbor Freight and Northern Tool have speed restrictions of just 45-mph, meaning they're not recommended for highway use, even though they're touted as "highway legal" due to their lighting. I'm not sure why they list a restriction, be it the hubs or bolt-together construction. But it concerns me. I have photos of the manuals at stealthgti.com/2019/03/18/pros-and-cons-of-various-cargo-transport-methods/. Good Luck!
@@StealthGTI Thank you very much for the info! Very happy to have subscribed!
Would definitely suggest the 4×6 bigger one! MUCH better to at times have a little bit to much unused area than really need more area that you simply don't have !!
Was just looking at your video about your trailer and I have a question if you don't mind? Did you have to use wheel spacers and if so could you please send me the link where you purchased them? Thank you
Not at all. Despite the stick-on VW emblems, which I have removed, the wheels are 14" trailer wheels with zero offset. I will replace them with 13" wheels and proper trailer tires when the passenger radials wear out. Thanks for visiting.
That little trailer is listed for $748 at Lowes now :O. My friend got a new 20' car trailer for $2100 a couple years ago, was an unsold previous year model.
It's amazing how much the costs have gone up. I think I paid about $300 in 2015. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI No kidding, I'm looking for a 5/6 x 8/10/12 utility trailer and even used they all seem to be over $3000
@@wickedmuffin76 - Yeah, I get asked if I want to sell either of my trailers from time to time. The answer will be "NO" until I'm 100% sure that they're more of a burden than my need to have them. I cannot foresee a day in the near future when that will be the case. Maybe in 20 years when the trailers are too difficult for me to move around. HAHA!
Really like what you've done, great work! Could you tell me what the width is fender to fender?
It's exactly 60 inches. I know this because they rubbed when I loaded it onto a 5x10 trailer to take for a spring perch repair. With the factory fenders, this trailer was 56" wide. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI thanks for the reply! Did your new wheels originally fit on the stock axel, before getting a new one? This is the perfect trailer for my needs and they sell them nearby, but I'm trying to figure out if I can upgrade to a larger wheel/tire combo that will bolt right up without clearance issues. Any insight much appreciated!
@@bretttran5919 - The larger wheels/tires fit the axle and clear the frame. However, I needed larger fenders to clear the tires. The factory fenders will not work with anything larger than the tiny stock wheels.
Did you need to add a spacer for the larger tires? Can I get more info about the wheels and tires on your trailer?
Thanks for visiting. The wheels are standard trailer wheels, just in black. The tires are 195/60R14, which are shorter than most 14-inch trailer tires since they are passenger radials. I didn't NEED shorter tires. Instead, I had a new set laying around that I had purchased for an older car that's now gone. The 195s fit without spacers. A "standard" trailer tire for a 14-inch wheel appears to be a 205/75R14. It would fit without rubbing the suspension or chassis. However, I'm fairly certain it's tall enough to rub on the fender, especially with a load over bumps. A 13-inch wheel with a "standard" 175/80R13 is a perfect fit. I will probably replace my current tires with 195/65R14s when the time comes. I like the softer sidewalls of passenger radials on my lightweight trailer. Take Care.
Great video.
I have the same trailer from lowes with the 12" wheels . Do you know if I can fit a 13" wheel without removing the fenders? Thank you
Probably not. The larger wheels also have taller tires, about 17% taller. While they MIGHT seem to fit at first, any apparent clearance will disappear as soon as you load or go over bumps. Plan to replace the fender or move yours upward if you seek larger tires. Thanks for visiting!
Sounds good. Thank you for your advice. Have a nice day
Thanks for all the info on the trailer. I recently bought one to save on fuel and need to replace the leaf springs so it isn't so violent. I visited your website. Are the 24 5/8" 4 leaf slipper springs you reference to the correct size for this trailer? Thank you!
I don't recall lengths, but the springs linked on my website are the correct ones. Also, larger tires which run at lower pressures will work wonders to calm the ride, too. Good Luck!
@@StealthGTI awesome thank you
How did you secured the plywood to the floor and also the sides. I just pick up the same trailer.
Very nice! I used nuts, bolts, and fender washers to clamp the wood to the floor and sides. If I was doing it again, I'd use carriage bolts instead since they present a smoother surface for cargo to slide over. They'd be held steady with some of these: amzn.to/3n95reL. Thanks for visiting.
Did changing the leaf springs affect the carrying capacity of the trailer?
No. I stayed with the factory spring rate and only changed the number of spring plates for a smoother ride. Theoretically, I guess you could increase capacity by swapping to heavier leaf springs, a heavier-duty axle, and adding brakes. But then the weak point would be the trailer box itself. I'm not sure I'd trust it far beyond the stock 2000 lbs. Also, the tongue could be a weak point, too, since it's a straight beam instead of an A-frame. Thanks for visiting.
What bracket did you use to mount your fenders to your trailer?
No bracket. With the wooden sides, I simply used wood screws to fasten the fenders. That's probably not as strong as brackets, which is why I have the bird deterrents on the fenders. Thanks for visiting.
Very nice looking to trailer. When the trailer is hooked up to your Jetta, did you have any problems backing up to an elevated driveway without scratching the hitch?
I used to bump the hitch on my lowered Jetta. On my GTI, and with the larger wheels/tires on the trailer, everything sits high enough to avoid bumps on the road. Take Care!
I went to Lowe’s and purchased one after seeing yours! Had to go to a rural one that sell trailers. Where did you get the led guide posts and the yellow “Undersize Load” sign? I have to have those! Thanks.
@@jdretired- I got the guides at a truck stop. They're bumper guides for big trucks that come standard with amber lights. I eventually bought sealed red LEDs from www.boresmfg.com/. As for the "Undersize Load" sign, I had it made at a sign shop. Take Care.
Hey there,
One last question about the bumper guides. The ones from the truck stop doesn’t come with the mounting bracket that you have. Any chance you can send a link on them? Thanks.
@@jdretired - I don't have a specific link since I bought mine nearly 20 years ago. But I'm sure you can find something that includes mounting brackets, especially if you shop online. Worst case: heavy-duty zip ties.
They are 800 at lowes today .
$800 and usually out of stock. I hope mine doesn't get stolen now that it's 2.5-times the cost to replace it when compared to new. Thanks for sharing the updated pricing.
When you upgraded the tires, did you find a rim that fit the trailer bolt pattern, or use something with an adaptor?
Between trying to properly identify my trailer bolt pattern and finding large wheels on 'trailer' rims, I'm having a hard time!
I experimented with using adapters and VW wheels. But I eventually switched back to standard trailer wheels for easier shopping and maintenance. I think the 5x4.5" bolt pattern is most popular, especially on medium-sized trailers. I don't think you'll find a wheel larger than 15" with that pattern. There are larger wheels, but they have more bolts and the assumption that an even larger, stronger tire will be used to carry even heavier loads. In my opinion, lower profile tires on trailers present a risk of damage since trailer suspensions are not as compliant as the tow vehicle's. Once I came to that conclusion, I decided to just stay with dedicated trailer tires in standard sizes. Long answer, but i hope it was helpful. Take Care!
@@StealthGTI it was!!
I found some 14 inches and fenders very similar to yours, I think my trailer has the same dinky 12" wheels that, violently, bounce around :p
Hello Scott, after watching your videos and looking at your website, I see you have used several different kinds of tires for your Carry On trailer.
I was wondering if you could give some commentary on the reasoning you have used several different sizes and what their pros and cons are.
Or if I missed something, you could direct me to any commentary you have already provided.
Also what is the tire and size of your "limp along" spare tire?
Thanks for writing, Mike! I've run through a few styling trends. At first, I had used some wheel adapters that allowed me to run a set of factory VW steelies and whatever tire size that was standard on the Mk6 Jetta that first towed this trailer. That may have been around a 195/60R15. I went that direction in an attempt to achieve a smoother ride from a tire that could run at lower tire pressures (35 psi vice 90 psi). Later, I felt that the thick adapters may have been contributing to premature wheel bearing wear. So, I switched back to a zero-offset trailer-specific wheel. I chose a 13" wheel so that I could maintain the tire circumference that I had with the VW setup. When it was time for tires again, I had some brand new tires that I had bought for my Mk3 Jetta that never got mounted. So, I bought some black 14-inch wheels and mounted the 195/60R14 passenger tires since I already had them. That's what's on the trailer now. My website incorrectly lists 13″ wheels with ST175/80R13 tires. That will be the size that replaces the passenger tires when the time comes. I left that off my website because I didn't want to mislead my visitors into putting passenger tires on their trailer. And don't be fooled by the VW logos on the hub caps; they're just stickers. I'm a VW nerd! ;-)
Pros and cons? I suppose the passenger tires ride smoother with less bounce. However, they also squirm left and right a tad more, which is problematic with heavier loads or at higher speeds. That's why I stayed with dedicated trailer tires on my heavier cargo trailer. Ironically, the 14-inch wheels on my utility trailer will have to go when the passenger tires age-out because an appropriate tire for 14 inches would be too tall for my tiny trailer. I'll downsize to 13s and use the tires listed on my website. Coincidentally, that would match what's on my cargo trailer, which would be handy if I had an unexpected need to borrow a wheel from there. ;-)
As for the spare, that's a 4.80-12, which is the standard wheel and tire that came with the trailer. I tried a variety of spare tire sizes to match the others as well as different mounting positions. Since I've only needed a spare tire ONCE in 25 years (plugs are great), I decided that mounting under the trailer was "good enough." The smaller wheel/tire combo was what I needed to fit between the cross members of the frame. If I had a 4x6 or larger trailer, I would have gladly chosen a tire that matches the main tires.
Take Care!
Thanks for the detailed commentary. Great information for small utility trailers and choice of tires.
With the lid on is it water proof ?
My wife needs to keep clothing in a small trailer. Thx
"Water-proof?" No. Rain-proof, it depends. If you rewatch the section about the lid, you'll see that the rear part of the lid is not sealed due to the way I chose to fit it inside of the gate. That allows me to lift and remove the gate without removing the lid. As a result, rain water can leak to inside the trailer. Here's the "it depends" part: If you park or tow the trailer with a slight nose-up angle, then any rain water that runs in there will simply dump out the back before having a chance to migrate forward. It's not uncommon for the floor to get wet during heavy rains, but it doesn't flood. I don't tow with a nose-up angle (parking, yes). I prefer either level or slightly nose-down so that cargo doesn't shift rearward. When I know I'll drive in the rain, my practice is to pack my things in totes or luggage to keep the bottoms dry. Water does not leak through the lid; so, cargo does not need to be tarped.
That ability to remove the gate without the lid has not proven to be extremely useful. I could add a piece of crown molding to the back to help direct rain water around the gate. But it's realistic to assume that SOME rainwater will still leak through the corners. By the way, I did take this trailer on a 7400-mile journey. I didn't encounter rain, but was confident that only the floor would get wet. See my "Coast to Coast" playlist, if you're interested.
This is a bit of a long answer to a simple question. I hope it's helpful in making your decision. Thanks for visiting.
I want to know the names of the smallest and lightest weight trailers and where can I get them from ? I want a 3.5 open trailer ?
The full name of the trailer is in the title of the video; plus, the video description has links to more information. Thanks for visiting!
Far fetched question but do you think a GTI can haul a travel trailer that meets the maximum towing capability the engine, chasis and tow hitch can handle? I own a Jayco that weighs under 3k my wife’s suv hauls. Just curious
I wouldn't do it! Even though the UK's towing guidelines say that the GTI can tow 3500 lbs, that's with their 55 mph towing speed limit and 5% tongue weights in mind. Even if the GTI can pull your Jayco (and I'm sure it can PULL it), the 10% tongue weight that it's probably balanced to far exceeds the tongue weight limit of the GTI. And you'd be completely hosed in court if anything happened. Take Care!
@@StealthGTI thank you from one gti owner to another! keep the journey going!
Should twist the chains to reduce the slack instead
Twisting the chains weakens them. I'm sure making them the correct length is a better solution, but twisting is definitely not a great idea. Look it up on your favorite search engine. Thanks for visiting!
I just paid $648 for a 4 x 6. Shoulda bought it 20 years ago.
The price of steel continually increases! I don't know if I'll ever get rid of this trailer. :-) Thanks for visiting.
How much did it cost you to upgrade your trailer like the way it is?
I prefer not to add it all up. HAHA! Have a look at my website at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. It lists the parts with links to shop. I guess you can add the items up for an estimate. If I knew I would spend as much, I might have had the trailer custom-made. ;-) Thanks for visiting.
@stealthGTI How did you mount the new fenders on?
They're screwed through the mesh sides and into the wooden box. I have links to photos in the comments at the bottom of this page: stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI Did you have to upgrade the axel before putting on 14” radials? Went to discount tire and the man said I wouldn’t have enough clearance for a 14” trailer tire.
@@protodank - The clearance issue is due to the fenders, not the axle. The originals are welded to the box. I had them cut off, then attached the plastic replacements with wood screws. I also positioned them a few inches higher. If you mount the new tires before choosing a fender location, then it's easier to gauge where you want the fenders. Just make sure that you either position the fenders while the trailer is loaded or make sure you account for the fact that the trailer will drop an inch or two when loaded. Look at the photos on the webpage I shared earlier to compare the difference.
Where can i rent one of these for a short roadtrip of 6 days?
I don't think it can be done unless you're lucky enough to live near someone who owns one and will rent it. Most rental companies rent larger, heavier units that are built to withstand the abuse that customers will most likely inflict upon them. U-Haul's smallest trailers are a 4x7 utility (650 lbs) and a 4x8 cargo (850 lbs). They're not terribly heavy and rent for about $15/day. Good Luck!
The guide lights , how high are they from the top of the trailer? Thank you
I'm honestly not sure without going out to measure them (currently storming outside). But I'd say their actual length is irrelevant unless you're towing this same trailer with a Golf. The key is to place them at a height that you can see through your rear window and over any slopes/terrain that you expect to traverse. For example, my old Jetta's rear window was higher, so the lights were taller at that point. But I still had to be careful to not put them *too* tall; otherwise, I'd lose sight of them when backing up the initial slope of my driveway. With the Golf, the rear glass is lower, but farther back. So, the need is different. A pickup truck with a closed gate would need even taller lights. My point is the need depends on your specific trailer and tow vehicle. Does that make sense? Thanks for visiting!
Sounds good
Thank you for the advice
Have a good night
Is this model available in Canada? I don't see in here
I don't know if they export to Canada. Sorry!
Hello Dave,
I have another question for you about flipping the axle.
I am about to start my utility trailer rebuild. I will be replacing the tires with 14 inch tires and new fenders as well.
Is it absolutely necessary to flip the axle?
Couldn't you just raise the new fenders up a little higher?
Do you think it's that significant big difference to flip the axle and put greater leaf springs on it (for a smoother ride)?
Thanks for writing, Mike. Feel free to call me Scott. ;-) My axle is not flipped. In fact, I'm done exactly what you asked: My fenders are both larger and raised. I also replaced the factory springs with a set with better compliance. See my website at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/ for details and links to the parts. I may even have some links in the video description. I don't recall. Take Care!
@@StealthGTI Hello Scott!
Thanks again for documenting your build and answering my last question.
I finally got started on my own utility trailer upgrade. Again, I'm starting with the same utility trailer you have (3.5 X 5.0).
I quickly ran into my first hurdle. I took off the fenders and put on my new 14 inch wheels (Etrailer Provider ST205/75R14 Radial Trailer Tire w/ 14" Silver Mod Wheel - 5 on 4-1/2 - LR C ITEM # TTWA14RSM $162.92) and found out that after putting them on I have less than 1/8 inch clearance between the tire and the side of the trailer. Also; the bracket that holds on the suspension is even closer to the wheel as it spins.
I'm wondering did you have the same problem?
If you did what did you do?
I also noticed that my axle is bent. I suspected it when I was taking off the 12 inch wheels and three of the treads have wear and the fourth tread still looks almost new.
But I'm more concerned on how to get 1 1/2 inches clearance between the wheel and the side of the trailer much like the distance between the 12 inch wheels and the trailer originally was.
Could you provide some comments?
@@michaelhowell3641 I can't really answer for Scott, but I am going down the same path as you (seems like Scott has started quite the trend lol). The axle is intentionally bent, it is designed that way to (I think) help with weight distribution, as more weight is applied to the trailer, the axle may tend to straighten slightly. I am awaiting wheels etc, and will be purchasing a 54" hub face axle from Northern Tool (about $85) to alleviate the loss of clearance between tires and trailer body etc. I hope this helps.
@@motoace2007 Hello,
Thanks for your response.
"You think"?
Do you know for sure, or this is more your opinion about the bend in the axle?
Do you have the same Carry On utility trailer (3.5 X 5.0)?
How'd you decide on the 54 inches?
Included in your 54 inches, how much space did you allow for between the inside of your tire to the wall of the trailer?
Mike, working in L.A.!
@@michaelhowell3641 Same trailer, yes - I had read that the bend is designed to support the full load of the trailer. If you flip the axle as others have done, you will lessen the weight carrying capacity of the trailer. I read some of Scotts additional posts on his website that states he is now using a 54" face axle, so that is what I plan to use.
So my gate opening max is 57". Would this trailer fit? Fender to fender?
According to the original specs, the trailer's max width (assuming "fender-to-fender") is 56 inches. That leaves just 1/2" on either side to squeeze it through your gate opening. You may need a winch so that you can control the approach very slowly. See more specs on my site at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI Thank you sir! I decided to expand my gate opening before i crash into it lol. I think then i will go with a 4x6. Again, thanks for your help!!
What hitch attachment was that? Has some type of cover on the back?
Can you be more specific? Are you referring to the plug that covers the hitch opening when the ball mount isn't installed? Or perhaps the "bumper guard" that's on the ball mount? Thanks for visiting.
StealthGTI sorry yes, the bumper guard with the ball mount. Like what brand is that extension? Or is it custom?
@@DayDayBear14- That's a product by TowReady, model #80400. It MAY be discontinued; I'm not sure. Most of the places that usually have them show them out of stock. Is it the virus and manufacturing stoppages? Did they close their doors? Who knows? Search the web for "Tow Ready 80400 bumper guard" and you may get lucky. Buy one if you find one. Once sold out, they may be gone forever. Good luck!
where did you get the trailer from ? where did you get the weels (tires) from and what size ?
I bought it at Lowe's about seven years ago for about $300. Amazingly, it retails for about $750 now, if you can find them. A Canadian viewer just shared that they run about $1100 USD up there. CRAZY! Oddly enough, I'm looking at 5x8 trailers for those times when this trailer isn't quite large enough. My daughter just bought a motorcycle; plus, a 5x8 would be great for carrying plywood or sheet rock. I'm still trying to decide between a rear gate and a tilt-bed. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI Sadly still cant find this trailer or any 3.5 x 5 trailer. :)
I need a light weight trailer cause my Rav4 towing capacity is only 1500lbs. And I plan on adding a rooftop tent and carry camping gear.
@@jroddy1 - I think a 4x6 is a great trailer! Sometimes, I wish that I had a 4x6 instead of a 3.5x5. My reason being that a 4x6 can hold a sheet of plywood without resorting to crazy loading practices. A 5x8 is even better and just a little heavier. They currently appear to be less expensive than the 4x6's. One suggestion, though, is to avoid the kit trailers. Read their manuals and you may find that they have speed ratings that may not be suitable for the highway. Good Luck!
I read somewhere that the max speed for this trailer is 45 MPH, is that true?
The owner's manuals for both the Harbor Freight and Northern Tool small bolt-together trailers have 45-mph speed restrictions. Carry-On Trailers does recommend maximum speed of 55 mph, but that's a safety recommendation that they make of ALL of their utility trailers, not specifically this one. Thanks for visiting.
u think 3x5 is big enough to haul a motorcycle? Yamaha MT 03?
Only a motorcyclist with transport experience can really answer that. The trailer's deck is 60 inches long. I think most motorcycles would have to ride diagonally and without the trailer's tailgate in place. Measure the bike's wheelbase, add the radius of the front tire, and go from there. I think it will fit, but the rear wheel will stick out beyond the back of the trailer. Then there's weight distribution... back it in or face forward? Good Luck!
This trailer need registration?
It does! I have no idea what size trailers are small enough to not need a tag. I suspect your DMV would tell you when you bring them a title. Thanks for visiting!
Can anyone help, my pal bought a 3/4 ton trailer and the wheels have serious negative camber, should these little two wheel trailers have any camber? I assumed it was for stability but the tyre blew today and one side was completely the worm and the other wasn't even touched, I'm guessing this is bad and the wheels need squaring up?? Thanks to anyone who replies 🙂
Is his a trailer like this one? My trailer came with an arch in the axle, which resulted in a *little* bit of negative camber. I assumed that was so the axle would be flat when loaded to capacity. My current axle is straight, but also made from a thicker, galvanized steel square tube. How "serious" is the negative camber? If one side is worn and the other is not, might there be a toe-alignment problem, perhaps from an impact? Good Luck!
@@StealthGTI thanks mate, it's easily noticeable, I think it must be damaged because he just said the wheel is rubbing against the side of the trailer because it's leaning in so much
@@StealthGTI p.s, no it's not like the trailer in the video, similar but not quite the same, I just commented on this video in the hope that someone who knew more about trailers than me would also watch it
Do you build these I would love to just pick ome from you
Sorry, I don't build them. This is a store-bought trailer that I modified to suite my needs. Thanks for visiting.
dont you need a tag for the trailer?
There's a tag over the left tail light. I blank it when displayed online. Thanks for visiting.
Whats the actual weight in the trailer tnx
The weight of the trailer, as configured in this video is ~500 lbs. The wood really adds up! Without the wood, it's probably around 320 lbs. Thanks for visiting.
I want to buy your trailer asap please?
LOL! Not for sale. I use it far too frequently to give it up. Thanks for visiting.
How much wait can the trailer do?
The trailer's GVWR is 2000 lbs. However, cargo capacity is GVWR minus the weight of the trailer itself. In this case, it was 1750 lbs when stock and now about 1500 lbs as configured. HOWEVER, the max towing capacity of the car is 1500 lbs without trailer brakes. Therefore, I should not carry more than 1000 lbs. Thanks for visiting!
@@StealthGTI sorry but what's the size if it?
@@futbol1972 - It's in the title: 3.5x5 feet. So, pretty small, but not as tiny as they come. Take Care!
@@StealthGTI do u like it and is it pretty handy?
@@futbol1972 - It's incredibly handy. I think I mentioned it's flexibility in the video.
How much are they please ?
How much are what? The base trailer can cost as much as $500 today. I got mine at Lowes. But there's not much left of the base trailer in this build. See more at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. Thanks for visiting.
Can I buy one in tbe UK?
I doubt it. Carry-On is an American company. I don't know if they even export to Canada, much less overseas. I suspect something similar can be found or custom=built over there for less than what it would cost to get this trailer there. Thanks for visiting.
@@StealthGTI
Thank you ..
Where can I get new wheels ?
etrailer.com. Thanks for visiting.
@@StealthGTI thanks. Sorry one more question my the top of my hitch stands at 11in . What height is the carry on tongue... I’m asking because I need to buy a ball mount for my chevy impala.
@@sneakerheadlowlife4484 - My hitch is the same height. I'm able to use a 3/4" rise ball mount to meet the height of the tongue. But that's with the taller tires. With the stock tires, I'm pretty sure flipping the mount to make it a 1.25" drop worked well.
@@StealthGTI thanks, appreciate it
@@StealthGTI finally got mine today. I love it, only issue I have is backing it up I feel like I can’t get it right lol
I cant find this anywhere
See my comment in the pinned post below the video. In short, they can be ordered. Good Luck!
@@StealthGTI yea not available for at least 500 miles of my location lol but thank you for responding.
How could you doll up that trailer to make it look as though it was built by VW? 🤔
More than just an emblem please.
This video was shot shortly after removing a pair of VW wheels from the trailer. The point wasn't to fool anyone into thinking that it was built by VW, but to tie-in a VW theme. Thanks for visiting!
Honestly if Lowes just sold this as a finished product i'd buy it
HAHA! I'm sure they'd charge much more for a "finished product." Plus, I'm sure it would have more quality control issues with the additional finishing points. I think the trailer is a great base platform to begin a customization journey. Take Care!