Randy - I'm thinking the same thing. The trailer is very light (tongue weight less than 50#). I frequently tow it with my 1500cc Nash Met with no problem including speeds up to 55MPH+ (without scooter). I initially installed spring helpers only to discover the Met didn't need them and after doing the "man on amphi bumper" stand, the Amphi's suspension is quite stiff. I'll need a 4" drop hitch and change to trailer torsion suspension (from springs)along with electric brakes. I've already found a source for these small elect brake hubs. The combined additional weight of the Topper and carrier is about 180 - 200#'s. Total weight is also well under 2,000#, complete. That weight on the trailer end is enough to bring the front of the trailer off the ground (another man on the bumper test), but it only takes about 40lbs of downward push to bring it to balance (according to assistant tech, Mrs AzPaul). I plan to move the propane bottle to under the kitchen and place a RV battery/isolator/solar charger on the trailer's tongue (where the bottle was). To compensate and bring the front end down, I have a pre-cut 5/16" thick piece of diamond plate left over from another project that is about the right weight (heavy sucker). Fits perfectly across the front of the trailer below the front window. Meanwhile, the trailer tires are 12" wheels, load range C, (4 x 4" lug pattern). If I tried to convert to a stabler tandem setup or larger wheels/tires, I'd have to also rebuild the wheelwells, inside and out. That's out of the question, so I'm stuck with a single axle. As you note, I also have to find out if the Amphi's smaller engine will tow without heating up. It does make my Met run about 5 degrees hotter at 190 deg or so. Interestingly, I've added up parts for this including carrier, hubs/brakes, RV battery, solar, isolator, brake controller, drop hitch, ball, torsion parts, and I'm still well under $1K but still have a few more things to add. I'll go looking for a receiver to bolt onto the existing hitch tomorrow (I found one on the net that needs only a little modification) then measure the exact drop. I should be ready for an initial tow test next week to see if the whole thing doesn't come apart with things just as they are now. The car arrived with a bad temp sender that should be in tomorrow's mail. While this all is daunting, it is still mostly for looks. Allow me a moment free from technicalities, what would you think if you saw the trailer behind the Amphi with (fake) boat numbers also on the trailer sides??? LOLOLOL.... Thanks for your input and keep 'em coming! - Azpaul
To: azpaul50@hotmail.com
Subject: RE: [General Amphicar Discussion-t-20413] Re: Amphi Trailer
Date: Thu, 7 May 2009 23:19:00 -0400
From:
Quote:
Originally Posted by azpaul50
As some members know, I've had an Amphi/trailer/scooter project in mind for quite some time. I finally have all the major pieces together. I just posted pics under Amphi repairs.restos etc. since the site automatically downsizes the pictures. Apparently they don't in this thread so there are no pics attached here. I'd welcome any comments especially relating to potential problems. I can already see stresses on the car and trailer than need to be overcome. My hope is to have a one-of-a-kind rig that finally wins the game of toys. Let's see someone else transport a car/boat/rv/and motorcycle all at once for less than $500K!. - PaulI like it.
I am certainly no expert, but even with the small trailer and bike, that seems like an awful lot of weight to pull behind Amphi.
I would be concerned about tongue weight too, if you are able to drop the hitch down, the extra weight on the back of the trailer may cause some problems.
Good luck with the project I hope you are able to work it out.
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