COMPARING UTILITY OPTIONS FOR SMALL CARS

Рет қаралды 45,414

Күн бұрын

This is my full video in which I compare the pros and cons of transporting cargo with small cars using various methods: a hitch-mounted cargo carrier, a rooftop cargo box, and a small utility trailer. It is a supplement to my article at wp.me/p7YnQB-18h.
The video became much longer than planned, totaling nearly an hour before eventually trimming it to 29 minutes. I have a lot of respect for KZfaqrs who present long videos. Their production is VERY time-consuming. This video was so tiring to create that I also wondered if it would captivate my audience at its current length. Plus, what if a viewer is only interested in ONE of the cargo transport options? Would they watch the rest?
Therefore, I've also created separate video versions, which are shorter and easier to digest:
Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carrier - • Hitch-Mounted Cargo Ca...
Rooftop Cargo Box - • ROOFTOP CARGO BOX PROS...
Small Utility Trailer - • SMALL UTILITY TRAILER ...
00:00 - Intro
00:34 - Background
02:13 - Hitch Mounted Carrier Pros
03:57 - Hitch Mounted Carrier Cons
07:43 - Hitch Mounted Carrier Additional Info
09:26 - Rooftop Cargo Box Getting Started
09:59 - Cargo Box Pros
11:47 - Cargo Box Cons
14:43 - Cargo Box Additional Info
15:46 - Utility Trailer Getting Started
16:28 - Utility Trailer Pros
20:37 - Utility Trailer Cons
24:19 - Utility Trailer Additional Info
26:12 - Which is My Favorite?
27:52 - Closing Thoughts
My Amazon Storefront: www.amazon.com/shop/stealthgti
Here are the links to items or material referenced in the video, which includes one Amazon Affiliate link:
Our 6300-mile Tour of the Northern U.S. - stealthgti.com/our-tour-of-th...
Curt Model 11412 Economy Hitch for Mk7 Golf/GTI - amzn.to/2Y3rOXx
Curt's "How to Load a Cargo Carrier" - • How to load a Cargo Ca...
Curt Hitch-Mounted Cargo Carrier - amzn.to/2FbmF8x
Rola Waterproof Cargo Bag - amzn.to/2Cp6Qt4
Yakima Rooftop Cargo Box - stealthgti.com/2017/08/23/yak...
Torklift Central EcoHitch Model X7310 Premium Hitch for Mk7 Golf/GTI - bit.ly/2O8MJnu
Utility Trailer - stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5...
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
Baun Performance Catback Exhaust - wp.me/p7YnQB-1KJ
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

Пікірлер: 120

@coyote2427 5 жыл бұрын

thanks for sharing the video ,,where can i fine trailers like that small size?

@StealthGTI 5 жыл бұрын

Dave - The Carry-On 3x5.5LSHS is available at Lowe's. Be forewarned that mine is modified beyond stock. Regardless, they're great starter platforms. I have a full write-up on my trailer at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. Thanks for visiting! -Scott

@LeslieDugger Жыл бұрын

@@StealthGTI thanks for the link. The trailer is killer! Might make one for my sportwagen!

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

@@LeslieDugger - Excellent choice! Thanks for visiting!

@fredygump5578 4 жыл бұрын

I love the "Undersized Load" sign!

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Haha! Thanks! I wonder how many times someone following an "Oversize Load" truck snapped a photo of me as I passed by with my "Undersize Load?" I have a photo of my trailer next to an oversize load at a truck stop. I'm hoping to duplicate that photo with the GTI someday. Thanks for visiting.

@coltonwood9846 4 жыл бұрын

I just realized that you were stealthTDI back in the day! I still remember reading your old website, and in this video I made the connection seeing your 98 jetta.

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Yes, that's me! I honestly thought I'd keep that car forever. Unfortunately, rust swiftly consumed areas of the car that are a kiss of death on that platform. BUT, the death of that car, along with Dieselgate, is what compelled me to jump into a GTI. So, there's a happy ending. I still love this GTI and will never go back to diesels. Thanks for writing! -Scott

@adreabrooks11 10 күн бұрын

Great information; very helpful! Definitely worth the slightly longer video format.

@StealthGTI 3 күн бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting!

@aaronboggs5799 3 жыл бұрын

Great video - a super informative rundown on all the options. I do track days in my mk6 GTI and have been toying with the idea of using a small utility trailer to haul my extra wheels, jack, tools, etc. to and from events. The big considerations for me are modifying it for cargo theft deterrence and upgrading the bearings and possibly wheels to accommodate long trips. Leroy Engineering makes nice, purpose-built trailers for just this but the cost difference is significant. Anyway, you gave me some great things to think about as I figure out my own next steps in this area. Cheers.

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Aaron! Check out my video specific to the trailer build at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/naqmopab3Ni-nqM.html. Thanks for visiting.

@nciraldo 3 жыл бұрын

SUPER video. Extremely helpful - the pros, the cons, the “neither bad or good” comments. Now motivated and prepped to install a cargo carrier to my Prius V. Thanks.

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! What kind of cargo carrier? Roof or hitch? I'm testing a new hitch setup that I like and will share it in August. Thanks for visiting.

@nciraldo 3 жыл бұрын

@@StealthGTI I'm planning on an aluminum hitch cargo carrier.

@cdgregOG 2 жыл бұрын

Great information, thank you, I never would have considered the 3rd axle toll component.

@StealthGTI 2 жыл бұрын

You bet! It's very easy to forget about the toll roads. HAHA! Thanks for watching the full version of this video!

@user-be5qw6fw5i 2 ай бұрын

Thank you for this! Really helped me decide what I want to do for my Ford Expedition

@StealthGTI Ай бұрын

Glad I could help! Thanks for visiting!

@justinallen3037 3 ай бұрын

Thanks for this! I have so much im trying to do at the house. Im a debt free kind of guy who dont want to save up to buy a pickup. I also love my small car.

@StealthGTI 3 ай бұрын

You can do more with less! ;-) Thanks for visiting!

@Werevertumoto 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this, trying to figure out how to carry stuff on a small Suzuki Samurai and this comparison was very useful

@StealthGTI 5 жыл бұрын

I'm glad this was helpful. Given the stability challenges of the Samurai, which way do you think you'll go? Each path seems to present a challenge for such a small truck. Thanks for writing! -Scott

@chriskelvin248 4 жыл бұрын

@@StealthGTI Great video! But I would like to provide counterpoint to your reference of instability challenges of the Samurai. I have owned two Samurais (even a Sidekick!), one lifted on 31's, the other stock suspension on stock-sized tires. I currently own a new Golf R and a mk 4 GTI. The Samurai's supposed propensity to roll was a myth perpetuated by a biased executive at Consumer Reports. It was proven to be so in US court and Suzuki won that case. But the urban legend stained its reputation forever. While obviously not as capable as a sporty car like a performance Golf, I never experienced any unusual handling tendencies after tens of thousands of spirited miles. I carried two kayaks or two bikes or camping gear on the safari rack often and in that realm, I felt next to no difference either.

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

@@chriskelvin248 - Thanks for sharing your experience. When I think of the Samurai and its likely use today, I think of off-roading... perhaps extreme off-roading. My comment was with that in mind, driving on tilted roads/obstacles with 165 lbs loaded overhead. If it's safe, then cool! I considered Samurais long ago, but concluded that I wanted more legroom. Thanks for visiting.

@karenwalker3756 3 жыл бұрын

I am really enjoying your videos. Thanks for all the info I have fallen in love with this little trailer and can’t wait to get one. Praying my Prius will tow it with my camping gear to many adventures

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Thank you! Keep in mind the pinned comment in the other video with advice about ordering this trailer. Does your owner's manual discuss towing? I think Toyota in the UK finally allowed for towing in the 4th Gen Prius in 2017. I don't know if that translated to the U.S. Our lawsuit-happy society makes automakers less likely to open themselves up to litigation. With that said, I think you'll be okay if you're towing something lightweight, particularly when the car is empty. For example, my car's payload capacity is 1016 lbs. I weigh around 200 lbs. So, what's the big deal about towing the other 816 lbs behind the car instead of inside? It's not much more stressful on the engine. And, with the cargo being on a separate axle, it's actually easier on the car. Of course, I transport heavier than that, but I'm far out of warranty. What are your plans?

@karenwalker3756 3 жыл бұрын

Well my son is a welder so I plan on him building me one and would like to do a lot of the modifications like you did from the beginning. I have a 2006 Prius and I’m sure I’m not supposed to tow but I hope to keep it light and keep a little in the car too it’s just I went camping last weekend and was packed to the max and a roof carrier on top too lol. I would like to be able to have a passenger as well as my dog. So I’m hopeful that with the trailer I can have it all 😊

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

@@karenwalker3756 - Custom-built is best in this size. Visit my website at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/ to see the components that I've swapped-out. Starting with them in your custom build would be fantastic! I'm interested to learn more about your glamping. Do you use a large tent? Power from the Prius? Please feel free to use the "Contact" link near the top of my website if you prefer a smaller audience.

@JIMI291 7 ай бұрын

Sir you just spill some gems.I love the video and info.

@StealthGTI 7 ай бұрын

I appreciate that. Thanks for visiting!

@asafmenjivar7936 3 жыл бұрын

yes, thanks for sharing- loads of info - thank you very much!

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting.

@eug1806 2 жыл бұрын

Great video. Been considering all 3 options all week. You narrowed it down for me. I have a bare roof 2021 RDX and I was thinking about roof rail and crossbars (for $1K) but after watching your video it seems to be a more expensive risk because I can easily break the glass of my huge moonroof when awkwardly load or unload cargo or damage the vehicle with heavy loads. I think the hitch carrier might be the ideal choice for now. I might eventually upgrade to the cargo trailer later on. Plus, I like the fact that after detaching both, the hitch carrier and the cargo trailer, the car remains classy.

@StealthGTI 2 жыл бұрын

Nice! I like your thought process! See a relatively recent video about a new hitch-mounted cargo carrier setup that I tested at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/fqx8q7WV0tXMmYE.html. I also have a video about my utility trailer's mods at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/naqmopab3Ni-nqM.html. As you said, both options very quickly transition back to the car's original look. Thanks for visiting!

@user-lr5og9jw8b Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the useful and objective information ❤

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for visiting!

@rickybrown4745 Жыл бұрын

Good job!great information 👍🏾

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

Thanks for visiting!

@danielgray7742 11 ай бұрын

Just started camping again after 15 years now with my wife and 2 year old. So this is great

@StealthGTI 11 ай бұрын

Excellent! My trailer is still my favorite way to move cargo, especially now that I have more antennas on the roof. However, I've also shared a rooftop basket video at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/aahkityEvbaweqs.html. It compares baskets to boxes, if that's helpful to you. Thanks for visiting!

@skohcl Жыл бұрын

Really great content. I've got a Bolt EUV I just purchased, electric and am trying to keep my wind resistance down so I can make it to the next fast charger on a longer road trip. Anyways, quality stuff - appreciate the well thought out arguments, attention to detail, and cost comparisons.

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

Excellent! Which way did you choose? Thanks for visiting!

@skohcl Жыл бұрын

@@StealthGTI Thinking I need that small trailer you have. Eco Hitch should be delivered tomorrow (for some reason there are like 3 different packages). But the side walls of that trailer look perfect; I had a 4x8 aluminum trailer for my crosstrek a while ago, but that was too big, the sidewalls were too shallow, and the ramp thing was super annoying. So the carry-on looks just right; also like the weight rating of 1750 vs. the ~1000lb rating of most small trailers that size. I know I'm going to want better wheels/tires for the trailer, but I don't think swapping out the axle is in my budget. I also already have a hitch mount bike rack from OneUP USA.

@p.ashukkur4613 5 ай бұрын

great info .... thank you

@StealthGTI 5 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting!

@climbers1376 4 жыл бұрын

thank you for this incredible work. as a millennial i would just have no clue until this

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Climbers- I appreciate your comments! Don't sell yourself short as a millennial. I didn't pull my first trailer until I was 30, I was 32 when I bought my own trailer, and was 50 when I bought my rooftop box. Anyone can learn as they get older, especially if they explore and experiment along the way. I'm glad my decision to share my findings is helpful to others. Thanks for visiting! -Scott

@justmejo9008 2 жыл бұрын

Hey.. I am a boomer and had no idea. We all start somewhere 🤷🏻‍♀️ it’s not age, it’s experience and you can’t get that without doing it or someone like Stealth sharing knowledge to save time amend money 🤗

@JosueMartinez-wd3yu 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so kick for your information as I will be going for a family vacay and have a Kia Soul thus thinking what option to take.

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! How much extra space do you need? I recently purchased an 8 cu-ft truck box to test on the hitch carrier. It's large enough to hold small luggage or tools. I'll know more when I get everything mounted and test it. Thanks for visiting.

@JUANQUI806 10 ай бұрын

Great video.

@StealthGTI 10 ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for visiting!

@justmejo9008 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this 🤗

@StealthGTI 2 жыл бұрын

My pleasure. 😊 Thanks for visiting!

@intoyoursoul23 Жыл бұрын

very well done video, good job ;)

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

Thank you very much!

@rubymsp-hq9zm 4 ай бұрын

One of the cons of the roof rack one has to remember is the vehicle will be taller. So one would have to watch out for parking garages and make sure of the clearance between the roof box and the parking garage roof. Some garages are very low.

@StealthGTI 4 ай бұрын

Yes! Back when I used to transport bicycles often, I had my height listed on the rearview mirror as a constant reminder. These days, I have tall antennas on the car and I remain constantly aware of my height of 8'4". Take Care!

@MonkeyKong21 3 жыл бұрын

another option to consider is renting a utility trailer from U-Haul when needed; Eliminates issues of licensing, maintenance, upfront cost, and storing a trailer ...the drawbacks are that you have to plan ahead to get the trailer, and their smallest trailer is going to be heavier than is ideal (probably an extra 300lbs)

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

My first few hauls were in rentals. The costs added up quickly enough for me to conclude that owning is better than renting. These days, I use my trailer frequently enough that renting would be a true hassle. However, if I only need a trailer 2-3 times per year, I certainly would consider renting over buying. Thanks for visiting.

@Karen-Not-That-Karen 4 жыл бұрын

Still here! The pics really added to your video

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your kind remarks.

@austinn5442 3 ай бұрын

Love the detail! Have any content on which class 1 accessories you like? I have. 16 civic and and underwhelmed by the lack of class 1 hitch options.

@StealthGTI 3 ай бұрын

I may get a bicycle carrier some day, but it's not a priority just yet. I also like Curt's hitch-mounted cargo carrier. See another version of my cargo carrier at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/fqx8q7WV0tXMmYE.htmlsi=b_ctYM7oUWTO2cHU. Thanks for visiting!

@Gprimbs 2 жыл бұрын

Great info

@StealthGTI 2 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for visiting!

@saginawdan 4 жыл бұрын

New subscriber from Minnesota.

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for subbing!

@alfaedu69 5 жыл бұрын

Hey, nice videos on various ways to carry things on the gti! I'm trying to do a trailer project but I have a question about the electrical harness. Did you make one or it came with your hitch package? Can I bother you to elaborate a little bit on how the harness is and where it goes electrically, please. My install is going to be on a gti mk6 so they are similar. Thanks and regards!

@StealthGTI 5 жыл бұрын

Hello - Are you referring to the harness in the trailer or the harness in the car? The trailer is standard wiring and still as it came from the factory. For the car, I use an inductive model that does not cut into the factory wiring. See it at amzn.to/2Eok7Sx. You can see more about my installation at stealthgti.com/torklift-ecohitch-and-carry-on-trailer/. Thanks for visiting! -Scott

@jaimeerinirene 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for the info! Curious if you (or anyone) has feedback on pros & cons of soft carrier bags..

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Jaime - I have tried two soft carrier bags. One was sent to me to review (see video at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/Y7Wnd9qJ0q-VZ4k.html); I bought the next one later because I wanted a larger bag. NO bag is aerodynamic, no matter what you see in the photos. You cargo will almost never meet the shape of the bag, plus the wind will beat the bag into the shape of your cargo. I don't like the idea of the bag sitting on the paint (as mentioned in my related video), and other odds/ends (see the video). I very recently used the new, larger bag in my trailer to transport some items that require extra water protection. I was very disappointed to see that something had abraded a hole in the bottom of the bag on its maiden voyage. I think it may have been a clip on one of the seabags... I'm not sure. But it was money wasted. I'm transporting the same items very soon and will simply wrap them in thick contractor bags. I hope that answered some of your questions. Thanks for visiting. -Scott

@j.c.5393 4 жыл бұрын

Liking the trailer!

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! I have a video walk-thru at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/iJl1hch_pty3k4k.html and a full write-up at stealthgti.com/carry-on-3-5x5lshs-trailer/. Lately, I've made a lighter lid and removed the rack for better aerodynamics. Believe it or not, I get better fuel economy pulling this trailer than with a cargo box mounted. It's quieter, too. Thanks for visiting.

@valeriomartinez7737 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks is a good video!!!

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for visiting!

@PaulLadendorf 4 жыл бұрын

Great vid. One other drawback of the trailer (and the hitch mounted carrier) is the possibility of forgetting its attached to your car and getting into an accident because of this. This happened to me after several years of hauling stuff in my trailer. :(

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Paul - That is a drawback I've never considered. I take the trailer very seriously and don't think I've ever forgotten that it's there. Regardless, I observe such large margins of safety when changing lanes, even without a trailer, that my tiny trailer still wouldn't come close to hitting anyone. Thanks for writing! -Scott

@kirkkramer2412 8 ай бұрын

I got a cargo rack on the back of my pickup has a 18 “ receiver extension you have to subtract half your max load ( 500lbs-1/2so I carry no more than 250lbs, the reason for the 18” receiver extension is I can drop my tailgate without hitting the cargo hitch.

@StealthGTI 8 ай бұрын

Good to see that you're taking the extra leverage into account. Thanks for visiting!

@lemonsandants 3 жыл бұрын

thanks for the info. Cost-wise, would you or have you used Roof bags. I'm going to assume it probably uses more gas than a roof box.

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

I have tried a roof bag. Here is a paid promotion that I did last year: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/Y7Wnd9qJ0q-VZ4k.html. Watch the video with the mindset of "here's my thoughts on rooftop bags" instead of "here's my thoughts on BougeRV." I think my points work well when comparing to this video. Thanks for visiting.

@243524351 3 жыл бұрын

hello, talking about noise which one do you think is best? Thanks a lot for a great explanation

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

If you get a hitch mounted cargo carrier with a hollow shank, like Curt model #18110, then you can use Curt model #22315 anti-rattle hitch pin for a completely silent solution. Of course, this is the smallest cargo carrying option. If you need more capacity, then the trailer is the second most silent option. With a hollow ball mount and anti-rattle pin, my trailer is nearly silent unless I hit significant bumps. Thanks for visiting.

@Michelle-dv4dw 4 жыл бұрын

Hey Stealth or others, What do you think of the Invisi hitch (it comes through the license plate so it sits up higher. I would be using it for a vertical hanging bike rack, that does not put pressure on the bike frame. (I haven't found one yet unless I order from Europe). But most likely will also be using a little trailer in the summer months.

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

I'm not aware of this hitch being available for VW's passenger cars. Can you please post a link?

@Michelle-dv4dw 2 жыл бұрын

I know you noted that your GTI is tuned, would a stock GTI handle pulling a small trailer like this? What is the most weight you've pulled including the trailer? Thanks for the help, this is all very new.

@anotheryoutuber_ 4 ай бұрын

thanks

@StealthGTI 3 ай бұрын

You're welcome! Thanks for visiting!

@bmiles4131 Жыл бұрын

Thank you, been trying to decide on new vehicle. Worried I’d forget I’m 5’ longer when changing lanes with a trailer. How do people remember?

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

It's tough to recall the trailer is back there when it's unloaded. I added poles to the back to help me see it. See more in this video: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/naqmopab3Ni-nqM.html

@robertwylie4296 2 жыл бұрын

Do you also have a 4 x 8 trailer and does that mean you could put a 4 x 8 sheet in it or something less than a four bite a sheet a thanks so much for your great video

@StealthGTI 2 жыл бұрын

Fitting a 4x8 sheet will require a bit of creative packing, rear overhang, and an ugly scene. I've done it with a single piece when I was rebuilding my 4x6 cargo enclosed cargo trailer. It was precarious, but I only needed to move it a few miles on a surface street... and early in the morning. Here's photo: i0.wp.com/stealthgti.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/4x8-Transport_1080.jpg. Again, UGLY. HAHA! Coincidentally, my daughter bought a motorcycle that won't fit into my "baby trailer." I feel compelled to buy at least a 4x8 tilt-bed. Let's face it, motorcycles break down and sometimes need a lift; plus, plywood or sheet rock would ride nicely in that. ;-) Thanks for visiting!

@waynefreeman595 3 жыл бұрын

Lots of great info and insights. The background music eventually wore me down however, and couldn't finish watching it.

@StealthGTI 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback. When I first started, I found it challenging to keep the music soft enough to avoid distraction, but loud enough to be perceivable. Overbearing music in videos is a pet peeve for me. Eventually, I cut all music except for the intro and ending. I've considered republishing this video with only opening and ending music. But it's ranking very well in search results. Thanks for visiting.

@kennethmacdowell211 2 жыл бұрын

One in every crowd. 😂

@kennethmacdowell211 2 жыл бұрын

Great video. Not all states require trailers to be licensed/registered.

@StealthGTI 2 жыл бұрын

True. But trailers without tags may still get "interviewed" by the police when traveling to other states. ;-) Thanks for visiting!

@Tsimy876 4 жыл бұрын

Do you happen to know if auto insurance has any opinions about these three cargo transport methods? Meaning, if you were to get into an accident using any of these three, would your insurance still cover the incident? Do you need to inform your insurance company if using any of these three? Will it affect your premium? THANKS!

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

I asked my (big company) agent about the need for separate policies for my trailers. He said that anything attached to my car is automatically covered. I've known this agent for over 25 years and feel very confident that he would be completely honest with me. WIth that said, a civil lawsuit could get ugly if I'm involved in an accident while towing something heavy. I keep that in mind and limit my loads to 1000 lbs. Thanks for visiting.

@Paeoniarosa 9 ай бұрын

Thank you for keeping me from an expensive mistake.

@StealthGTI 9 ай бұрын

Happy to help! What did you decide?

@Paeoniarosa 9 ай бұрын

I actually decided to just keep totes inside the suv to be taken out when I set up to camp. I like to drive to remote areas with bad/deeply potholed roads, so the hitch platform wouldn't be good. I didn't realize that cargo boxes are so noisy, which I really wouldn't like. As far as pulling a little trailer...same issue as the hitch platform! Thanks again @@StealthGTI

@StealthGTI 9 ай бұрын

Don't fix what isn't broken, right? 😉 Thanks for the response.

@paulx2777 Жыл бұрын

I bought a nice "Iron Eagle" 4x10 trailer for my Audi A3 TDI. I haven't used it much but I think it will be OK. It is 600lb empty so I don't have to only carry ping pong balls but I obviously must pay attention. If I need it for a heavier load my wife's car will get the job done. I like the 4' wide bed which has the same area as an ordinary 5x8 but sticks out very little. Mine has a drop axle and with that length I have to be careful about dragging but it OK in that respect so far. Too bad I'm no longer in Oregon as small trailers are not licensed there.

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

Excellent! It's always good to see another small car and trailer person! Check out a video about my specific trailer at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/naqmopab3Ni-nqM.html. I have a cargo trailer, too! Thanks for visiting!

@chriskelvin248 7 ай бұрын

I’m thinking about a similar setup for my Golf R. I already have a Stealth Hitch kit that came with a 2” ball adapter and a 2” receiver adapter. My two questions are: can a trailer this size carry a few 4x8 sheets on top and the tires and wheels you have on those- they look bigger than dinky 12” small trailer wheels…what’s the methodology there (they aesthetically fit the tow vehicle btw). Thank you in advance and grats on 200k GTI miles!

@StealthGTI 7 ай бұрын

Thanks for visiting, Chris! My trailer can NOT transport anything on the top rails because I have them encumbered with tiedown rings and racks. See more at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/naqmopab3Ni-nqM.htmlsi=vvhI1IXu29y-3fiQ. With that said, an unmodified trailer can carry something up there. The trick, I think, is to tie-down the load sufficiently to keep it from sliding off. I also think it would be wise to support the load in the center from inside the trailer box. As for my wheels/tires, they are larger than stock. They're ST175/80R13, which won't fit unless you cut-off the factory steel fenders and replace them with something larger and mount them higher on the sides. The video linked above may describe that. See it's description for a link to a full write-up. Good Luck!

@robob221 24 күн бұрын

I am concerned with drilling holes into the frame of my vehicle for the tow hitch. I own a 24 Carolla hybrid sedan and would hate to deal with rust down the road when I eventually sell it. Was that a concern for you?

@StealthGTI 20 күн бұрын

Most modern trailer hitches don't require drilling. In fact, I think most manufacturers go through great lengths to design their hitches to use existing holes in the body that were used by the robots that built the car. My hitch fastens at seven of the eight factory bumper points using slightly longer bolts. The other two points use carriage bolts that are fished into factory holes where robots held the body during assembly. Shop at etrailer.com for your hitch. Each hitch page shows the instructions for your particular car. If you see a step that requires drilling, then look at another hitch to see if you can find one that doesn't require it. Thanks for visiting!

@bGlennjamin 4 жыл бұрын

Can you still open up your hatch with the trailer on?

@StealthGTI 4 жыл бұрын

Of course! It's not even close. The trailer box rides just over three feet from the rear bumper. Thanks for visiting.

@RikaMakara 11 ай бұрын

Is the “baby” trailer a motorcycle trailer?

@StealthGTI 10 ай бұрын

It's too short for a motorcycle. I think you need at least a 5x8, maybe even a 5x10 if you want the tailgate to close behind the rear tire. Thanks for visiting!

@futbol1972 Жыл бұрын

I was going to buy a truck but dont really need one so Instead Iam looking to buy a 4x8 cargo max utility trailer just in case I need to haul something but iam afraid they will steal it:( I will be leaving it in my driway all the time. I live in the city of Clovis ca.

@StealthGTI Жыл бұрын

Trailer theft can be a problem for sure! If you cannot secure it in a back yard, then a good alternative is to make stealing it more difficult. I have tongue locks on my trailers. They're not theft-proof, just a slight hassle and deterrent. One of the better ideas I've seen is to buy a set of locking lug nuts, remove at least one wheel, and then zip-on the lug nuts with an impact wrench. It's fairly difficult to steal a trailer if a "bad" wheel cannot be replaced by a thief with back-ups. A long bicycle "U-lock" through one wheel and fastened to the leaf spring may be more convenient and equally troublesome for a thief. Still, a determined thief with sufficient tools, privacy, and time will take anything they want. Good Luck!