First test fit

[MPlayle]

I got an opportunity to make the first test fit for the tow dolly replacement today.

[94touring]

What are the details of this trailer?

[ADRay]

Are you going to be using the Subaru to tow the car & trailer?

I have a '15 and it's only rated to tow 1500lbs.

[MiniDave]

The van looks great on there!

[MPlayle]

Trailer details: It is a custom built trailer from Stinger Trailers (Canadian outfit).  They make folding trailers for towing various motorcycles.  They also do custom work.  I had this one built to carry a lwb Mini as well as a Triking 3-wheeler.  Their website: https://stingertrailer.com/

I will try to remember to snap a picture of the folder trailer standing in the garage and post it.

Tow car: I will indeed be using my Subaru.  It is a 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness edition and has a factory tow rating of 3500 lbs.  The regular Crosstreks are only rated 1500 lbs, but the Wilderness editions come standard with upgraded tow rating (different CVT scaling, factory transmission cooler, pre-equipped for installing the factory hitch and wiring by the dealer).

[MPlayle]

Here is what the new trailer looks like folded and parked against the wall of the garage.

[ADRay]

Tow car: I will indeed be using my Subaru.  It is a 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness edition and has a factory tow rating of 3500 lbs.  The regular Crosstreks are only rated 1500 lbs, but the Wilderness editions come standard with upgraded tow rating (different CVT scaling, factory transmission cooler, pre-equipped for installing the factory hitch and wiring by the dealer).

Wow, that's quite an increase with the Wilderness package. Good to know. 

I thought it was only about the badging and the yellow accents.

[MPlayle]

The "Wilderness" editions of all models (Crosstrek, Forrester, and Outback) all have increased towing along with adjusted gearing, higher ground clearance, and a few other mechanical upgrades for more rugged "off-road" use as well as the cosmetic differences.

[Brit_in_TX]

What is the weight of the trailer?  And what is its GVWR? 

How does it tow on the highway? 

[MPlayle]

The MSO for the trailer indicates the weight as 650 lbs and the GVWR as 2990 lbs.

They are supposed to be very stable on the highway.  I have not yet towed with the new trailer.  The picture was of the test fit to be sure the Mini actually fit as some manual measuring raised some questions.

[MiniDave]

Is the axle location adjustable? It looks pretty far back.....

[MPlayle]

The axle location is fixed.  The further back axle is part of the design's sway control.

The Kendon trailer I used with the white Moke had its axle further forward and was very suceptible to sway when going much above 60 - 65 mph.

[Brit_in_TX]

The axle in that position is going to transfer a lot of weight to the car, but it does not look like you are having to much squat on the Subaru.

What was your reason for moving away from the tow dolly to a trailer?  I am just curious

[MPlayle]

Two reasons for the switch:
1) The trip to MMEW basically wore out the rear tires on the Mini.  They are the cheaper 145/10 tires available, so not expected to last lots, but I would rather wear them out by driving rather than towing.
2) I needed something for the next "new toy" being built for me.  A Triking 3-wheeler.  A red example picture is attached below.  Mine will be a dark blue with the grey interior.

[jeff10049]

That Triking is neat never seen one before. Cool trailer too.

[Brit_in_TX]

That Triking is cool!  Looks inspired by a Morgan 3 wheeler.

[MiniDave]

When does the new toy get here? In time for winter cooler weather driving?

[MPlayle]

I am expecting the new toy around December.  The initial kit is produced in the UK and then it will be shipped to their US rep who will do the build into a turnkey unit for me.  The donor motorcycle has been acquired at the US rep's shop.

[MiniDave]

Oooohhhh, what kind of motor? Hardley Ableson, Indian, Victory or Guzzi?

Will yours be right or left drive?

[MPlayle]

It will have a Guzzi 1100 motor.  The donor is a 2004 Moto Guzzi California 1100, 5-speed, less than 3100 miles on the odometer.  I have optioned it to include the reverse box.