Best Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300
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- Опубліковано 21 жов 2024
- my FEELFREE LURE 13.5 kayak on my HARBOR FREIGHT foldable trailer turned out to be an unbeatable combo for stability, ease of use and transport . . . a PERFECT FIT!!!
UPDATE: CLICK ON LINK TO PHOTO BELOW . . . Since posting the video on August 9, 2016, I have changed my tow vehicle to a Chevy Cruze (lightweight sedan). This allows this kayak/trailer combo to be used and enjoyed by a greater number of people who might be thinking an SUV OR TRUCK is necessary to pull this combo . . . GOOD NEWS!!!. . . this 1.4 liter, 4 cylinder Chevy Cruze sedan tows this lightweight kayak/trailer combo with ease while getting 30mpg on the highway . . .
CLICK FOR "UPDATED PHOTO" . . .
drive.google.c...
My first time Kayaking and this Kayak held strong. ua-cam.com/users/postUgkx4k5UrhC3v_Y4hIEaXLGvHcN5a5aBmZNB The water got pretty rough as a speed boat zipped by me, and the Kayak withstood it (I expected to be capsized). The Ores are very easy to put together, the pump worked beautifully. the seats are a bit hard to sit in after a while (I recommend sitting on the floor). after reading the reviews I was very scared it'd get a hole in it, the material is very strong and durable. The Air valve may need a small Phillips head screwdriver to adjust, other than that, it's well worth the money!(update)I've gone Kayaking in 3 Lakes and 2 rivers totaling about 40 miles. the kayak had two holes and they patched easily and no other problems can't wait for kayaking season this year!
I've been looking around for a kayak trailer and discovered this video-fantastic job! I think I have found my trailer! I wish all UA-cam product review videos were done this well. Thanks!
thanks Rick . . . very much appreciate the positive comment . . . I considered many options before I made my final decision and feel very good about the result . . . economical, stable, sturdy, easy load and unload . . . very good bang for the buck!!!
I did enjoy it....great video....tons if ideas.... I had totally forgotten about harborfreight..... definitely saving some money there..... thanks again!!!!!
This is the rig of a man who accepts no compromises when it comes to his boat!
thank you again RH . . . your positive comments are MUCH APPRECIATED!!
warloc20 You get pretty emotional over kayaks don't you.
I had/made one of these about 12 years ago. PVC loaders (bunks) for a PA14 - lasted a long time and served me well. Despite double repaint before even assembling, the rust was so severe last year I had to abandon. Loved the cost. Was not a big fan of the lack of a tongue (no place to put a box) but I agree, the older cheap HF trailers were worth their weight in gold for the cheapness and 20% off coupon stuff in the early 2010s
Almost 5 years later this video still rocks, thanks bud!
thanks CC . . . I appreciate the positive comment!
Thank you Mr. Bromberger for this excellent video! This is the EXACTLY the video I've been searching for, as I'm considering getting into fishing with a kayak and wasn't sure how to haul it. I recently traded my pickup for a Honda CR-V, and wasn't wanting to go through the expense of roof racks, etc.
Hey Gary, I love the idea to strap down the noodles. Been racking my brain trying to come up with a better system than the flat bed thing and I built some wood braces that aren’t perfect. I almost convinced myself to go with one of those strut+PVC ideas but I really don’t want to have a complicated conversion for schlepping normal stuff. This is awesome so thank you for the idea!
thanks, the noodles work out very well . . . I think you'll find they do the job:)
You really just sold me on this kayak and trailer setup. I have a budget of 5500$ to buy a kayak for myself and one for my wife and was really going to go the cheaper route and buy the Basspro brand but this video was so well detailed and descriptive, thanks to you I feel I won't have buyers remorse. Subscribed and thanks again for the great video!
thanks for the positive feedback R31 . . . appreciate it very much . . . the trailer is not wide enough to hold two fisihing kayaks (32-34" each) side-by-side and laying flat . . . my suggestion would be to elevate the plywood platform above the top of the fenders and enlarge the platform to 6' X 8' in order to lay the kayaks SIDE-BY-SIDE and FLAT . . . OR . . . build any entire SECOND 4' X 8' platform approximately 2 feet above the base platform and slide the second kayak onto the second "SHELF" above the bottom shelf . . . the HF trailer is definitely capable of handling a second sheet of plywood with a second kayak because of its 1200 lb capability . . . if you buy 2 FeelFree Lures and a HF trailer plus misc (paint, hardware, paddles, etc.), your total cost should not exceed $3300-$3500 . . . saving your about $2000 over what you had originally planned spend . . . sounds like you've got a plan . . . I highly recommend the trailer and the FeelFree Lure 13.5 . . . HAVE FUN!!!
Live in Bentonville AR I've spend many a day floating the Buffalo.. what a beautiful river.. thanks for the video..
I have my trailer on order. I have the 2021 Nucanoe Frontier 12 that with gear weighs over 200 pounds. I'm 57 and the thing is a struggle to get in the back of a truck. I have the C-Tug cart to move the boat to and from the water and will easily line up with the height of the trailer making it a breeze to load. You've done a great job with your trailer. Happy floating and tight lines to ya.
I have just purchased a 11.3 feel free kayak and have been wanting a trailer for ityour video was very helpful appreciate u taking the time to make and put on the internet
glad I could help BJ . . . thanks
Very impressive indeed! I can tell you love it and rightfully so. Thanks for sharing this. I'll be looking to HF for my trailer. Love the matching painted plywood!!!
thanks for the positive comment Charlie . . . much appreciated
What a beautiful area you live in, hadn't seen this type of look before. Nice looking rig, and your enthusiasm. God bless you.
thanks RH . . . your extremely positive comments MADE MY DAY! . . . very, very kind of you indeed
I've been looking someone that uses this trailer that way i am for sure getting this one.
have fun Melissa:)
I just retired mine after 5 years of using the hell out of it. Never had an issue with the bearings or tires. Carried kayaks, jon boat, mulch, pavers, 1000+ lbs of gravel, etc. Just bought their next one up. Looks the same but the tires and suspension carry about another 500lbs. Getting it ready for my new Perception kayak.
Is it good for 70 mph on the interstate?
tclift1670 🤔 I did 65 with no problem. Haven’t tried more
@@ALL4SCUBA05 thanks for the quick reply
@@tclift1670 not recommended . . . I average about 60mph with no problems whatsoever:)
have fun!
WOW! When I get my kayak this trailer setup is exactly what I want. You did an outstanding job with the way you set it up with the reflection stickers etc...... I am 70 yrs old and need that stand up bar too. I've been looking at the feelfree lure 13.5 and the old town predator XL.. After seeing your feelfree kayak I might just switch unless the price is too much. Thanks for making this video.
thanks for the kind comments E....47 . . . got you beat, I'm 72 . . . FYI, I paid $1185 for the FeelFree 13.5 . . . paid extra for the FeelFree paddle and the stand-up bar . . . the bar is stout and strong . . . very secure . . . kayak very, very stable . . . no thoughts whatsoever when I'm out there regarding tipping over
This is really a nice rig and probably will last for years. As far as the speed on the highway, most people live close to a lake or water and don't have to worry about the speed factor. Most likely you could change the wheel bearing set-up to go faster. The trailer is much better than other ways to transport the kayak.
Looks great! I also run my top ratcheting straps thru pool noodles as well, that way I get the compression and security without too much deformation on the kayak. Love the bite color!! good idea since it's low profiled, and people are not as bite as your trailer!
Awesome setup. Very nice. Just what I needed to watch before heading to harbour freight.
lol . . . however, you are saving a ton of money plus thousands on potential medical bills related to back injuries:)
Very good walk-around. I have the exact same kayak and was wanting to find something to haul it on. this makes perfect sense and is very cost effective. Kudos on a great video. Helpful indeed.
thanks Mr V . . . hope you're enjoying your ff 13.5 as much as me . . . I think you'll really be satisfied with the HF trailer . . . glad I could help in your decision for a trailer
Can’t find HF trailer here in Northeast (NH) so I went with a similar trailer made by Westbrook trailer 499 and will rig it very similar to yours, you did a great job! I thought the decking mirroring the kayak color was a great touch!
That looks like an absolutely fantastic setup, Gary. Nice job.
Tech thanks, I really appreciate the positive comment . . . makes my day:)
thanks Tech . . . I really appreciate the positive comment . . . adds a lot to my day:)
Big money on all those pool noodles !
Don't forget to read up on bearing maintenance ! Excellent idea though ! I love it.
Great input on a simple and cost effective solution. Nicely done. Thanks
thanks Jerry for your positve comment . . . much appreciated
THIS...... is the best video about this trailer. Might I say, very nice kayak also. I just purchased the field and stream shadow caster kayak. This is the route I'm going.
thanks Josh . . . congrats on your new kayak purchase . . . you will have a great setup with the HF trailer and shadow caster combo . . . have fun!
@@garybromberger4044 Thank you. Cant wait to get out there. Winter in Ohio seems pretty long lol.
Hey. Forgot to ask ya, this is the lighter weight rated trailer from HF right? 1193lbs? I'm going tomorrow to buy mine.
@@joshnottingham8656 you are correct, right at 1200 lbs:)
@@garybromberger4044 awesome. Thanks so much.
awesome I had the same idea...amazing just amazing now I can see it better...thank you for your time on the video...fantastic project...two thumbs up...
That's a nice job on the trailer! Good video.
hi Baldwin Outdoors . . . thanks for the positive comment . . . much appreciated
Wonderful setup and great job on the trailer build and love the color combination to match with your Feel Free Lure 13`5 👍
thanks Steven . . . really appreciate the positive comments
color scheme looks like buzz lightyear! haha I dig it
Great trailer buddy, looks superb. Only thing I would add is a reflective plate ( license plate tag size or so ) and fix it to the back of the kayak while towing. Some drivers will not realise the kayak is sticking out further than the back of the trailer until it's too late
thanks RS . . . good idea on the additional reflective tape suggestion . . . thanks
Omg, great video. Love the trailer. I recieved my feel free moken 10 lite. I have a new 2.5 Suzuki outboard on the side mounted feel free transom, with one outrigger. This is the boat I've always wanted, and waited some time. I'm only 45 but have a heart condition, but I love to cover alot of water, then paddle around, not spooking the fish. Going to definitely invest in that trailer, because I have a fully restored 08 jeep wrangler, and would like my complete setup, on my trailer, and nothing in my jeep. Thanks appreciate the video.
great set up... far easier than rooftop... great also to just back kayak into the water
Harbor freight trailer the same one I'm using. Make sure to remove the grease that was in the hubs. I removed the bearings on one side to try and match. Cleaned them and re-installed with marine molybdenum grease. Two months the bearing on the other side of the trailer locked up and welded to the spindle. Highly recommend you change your grease now.
I agree 100% . . . I changed the grease before using . . . however, the manager of my local HF told me that the grease that now comes from the factory is adequate and should not result in over-heating
I'm driving across Texas right now already 650 miles most of witch is 75mph speed limit. No issues at all. My little Chinese Trailer is handing it perfectly
that's quite a testament to the trailer . . . thanks for sharing that info with everyone out there . . . that should relieve a lot of anxiety of potential but hesitant buyers
Props man. U have literally. One of the best sets ups I’ve seen. I just purchased my 13.5 lure in the blue Camo. Thanks for the idea to make a trailer.
RipLine Fishing thanks so much for the positive comment . . . Really appreciate . . . you'll love the trailer . . . have fun
Gary Bromberger Don’t know if it’s true or not. But they say that the peddle drive system will be out in February of 2018 for the lure 13.5. They have a Peddle drive system one and the motorized one. Either or. I’m looking forward in the peddle one.
Sir, THANK YOU for sharing this. I've been fretting for a while about whether the Harbor Freight trailer would work for my Old Town Autopilot 136, also a 13' 6" kayak. This video and your continued replies to recent comments that it still seems to be working well makes me feel MUCH better about using this as a trailer!
Hi did you go for it ? I got autopilot 136 so wondering too
@@sashabelov566 Been working like a charm for about two years now! No issues with either the trailer or kayak.
What is the trailer called?
Great little trailer for the price, I have the same one. One thing you should look into is picking up replacement bearings before you have an issue. They are metric and I couldn't find them where I live so I had to wait and order from ebay. If you need the bearing size let me know and I'll check the size for you.
thanks Mike . . . I'm ok for the moment
Great video! I have a Lure 10 and love it. I'll be visiting Harbor Freight tomorrow. Thank you!
thanks IGM . . . appreciate the compliment . . . enjoy your Lure and I'm glad that perhaps my video helped you reach a decision on a trailer for your Lure . . . I strongly feel it's a great and economical way easily transport your kayak
Used to live in Roger's ark.....love the Buffalo
Gary, great idea!! Very well done. I'm going to look into this trailer set up. I have a 14 foot Wilderness sit on top tandem. I'm sure it would work.
thanks . . . I'm sure it will be an excellent "nest" for your wilderness . . . have fun:)
drive.google.com/open?id=0B5TP31MBGJKCR2pnVTREYk1YV0JsdUNVSUh0VlowX0NZN1NB
UPDATE: Please keep in mind, an SUV or TRUCK IS NOT NECESSARY for this lightweight combo . . . since posting my original video on August 9, 2016, I have changed my tow vehicle to a Chevy Cruze . . . only a 1.4 liter, 4 cylinder sedan, but tows the lightweight kayak/trailer combo WITH EASE!!! . . . while still getting 30mpg on the highway:)
Thank you for the update. I was wondering if my small car could haul this
Gary Bromberger is it hard to make turns like this since it is so close to your car?
+DxSxFx4Him hi DX . . . no problem whatsoever with turns . . . somehow the photo must make the yak look closer than it actually is
Thank you for posting. Great review. I have the Field and Stream Shadowcaster. I think I may have to grab one of these up this weekend. Happy fishing!
thanks Derrick . . . really appreciate your input
Thank you for the video and motivating me to upgrade a little more on my Harbor Freight trailer. For an earlier question, the trailer is easy to assemble, although the packing could be better (cardboard boxes and plastic bags hold all the nuts, bolts, etc.). Nothing missing. I have had the trailer for years using it for my tandem Hobie Mirage and Adventure Island. I have a hand wench on mine. The trailer itself pulls really well on the beach behind my side by side. Nevertheless, I like the idea of mounting the plywood, strap set up as can be seen and the noodles. I did have a crack form on the kayak bottom that I had to used a plastic welder to repair. The rubber rollers are not as soft as those noodles and apply specific pressure which over a few years caused a few inch crack. I am sure if I had used the noodle to begin with there would have been no wear and eventual crack. So . . .I made some modifications, that work, HOWEVER, this rig wins the prize. Nice quality practical affordable kayak trailer; especially when customized. Best regards - and thanks again for sharing!
H
thanks Flash, your positive comments made my day . . . very much appreciated!
I did not think that the trailer came with water proof lights, however you might have add those. I have 2 yaks that tow on a utility trailer. I off load mine near the water as well.
Thank you for your video. I made an exact copy of your idea and I really love it. Now I'm off to pick up my Ascend fs128t from the Basspros...super excited.
congrats CE!!! . . . I think you'll love the overall "convenience" the trailer will give you by allowing you to "hitch and go" in a matter of 1-2 minutes . . . no loading and unloading on the roof or bed of vehicle . . . most people do not consider a trailer because of the expense and do not realize that they could have the convenience and simplicity of a trailer at the $300 price point . . . and, maybe best of all, the skill required to assemble the unit is minimal . . . thanks for your input and HAVE FUN with your new rig!!!
If you make another set of wheel wells over the top or a couple of pvc poles on bothe sides you could launch it and ride it right on and off the trailer from a launch
👍👍
You mention 1" plywood - can't find that at HD or Lowes currently. Do you remember the exact dimensions on the cuts for the flooring? Pressure treated or plain? thanks for the video.
hi marc . . . it was not pressure treated . . . I felt that with the high-quality primer and paint I chose to use, it woiuld be well protected . . . water actually beads on the surface of the paint . . . plywood actually measures 7/8 inch and a 4ft X 8ft sheet was cut in half and notched at the corners, allowing it to be folded and not blocking and bolt holes
Awesome vid....I've been looking at mobility options for feel free 13.5....I offer a great modification a friend of mine did to his feel free and I'm about to do the same. So anyway it's a double wheel modification, by taking out the rear single wheel, picking up some pvc, re bar and 2 kayak wheels from Amazon you can have stability on ground when your moving through rough terrain and when your in the water the two wheels offer even more stability....feels like I'm standing on a floating dock in calm water (depending on how wide you make your pvc/rebar axle)..just make sure you order the wheels with the removable pin...
thanks, good idea . . . sometimes it is definitely a little tricky attempting to balance the 13.5 on a single wheel
Gary, I have a 2015 Hobie Pro Angler 12 that I have been loading up on the roof of my Ford Taurus which is not an easy task since I'll be 65 at the end of this month...so....I've been considering a trailer and stubbled upon your video. The vid is great....the picture quality is very nice....I also live in Springfield. Sometime if it would work out for you I'd like to check yours out to see it up close and personal before I start putting one together. Great job on the build and the video Gary.
thanks for the positive comments Don . . . the reason I bought this trailer is because I remember what I had to go through back in 2012-2014 when I owned the Hobie Pro Angler 14 . . . and that was just getting it into a pickup truck bed . . . now I am 71 (almost 72) and have some medical issues which compound matters . . . the trailer is a miracle for me . . . I'd be glad to have you come over . . . text me anytime and we can set up a time 417-894-1536
Thank you Gary very much...I think that would be very helpful to me...I'd love to see your trailer set up and the beautiful kayak of yours....I will get back with you...thanks again Gary....Don
I have the same trailer I use for an inflatable pontoon boat but you have given me a great way to repurpose it for a kayak. I plan to purchase a kayak and curious why you prefer the Feelfree over the Hobie PA. I fly fish primarily on the White River in AR but hope to fish more on the Buffalo, Crooked Creek and North Fork of the White. Thanks for posting your video.
hi Rocky . . . let me say right up front that the Hobie PA is a GREAT kayak!! . . . if I had the HF trailer when I owned the HPA I might still have the PA today . . . I had the PA14 and it's weight became a burden in terms of getting in and out of my F150 . . . that being said, the things I love about the FeelFree are the SONAR POD which allows me to have the transducer, battery and sonar all in one compact, removable unit to take in and out of the kayak in seconds as needed which is also an advantage for security . . . I also like the internal rod storage capability and the extremely comfortable, 10-position seat which is now considered the best in the industry . . . I like that it has no arm rests and allows me to quickly swing my legs over the side and exit the kayak . . . the FF is every bit as stable as my previous HPA at about one-third the cost $1158 . . . I prefer the color schemes of the FF over the HPA (just a personal thing). . . for fly fishing, the stand-up bar is extremely strong and stable and the flat floor space on which to stand is significant . . . I have just completed building a complete removable trolling motor and battery unit which I am anxious to try and removes in a minute or less and did not involve penetrating the hull of the kayak with ant screws . . . I will be posting a video of my recent add--ons and improvements to the kayak in several days . . . enjoy your Hobie . . . it is an awesome kayak!
Nice set up, ... but for my 13'4" Eddie Gear Kayak, I bought a bit smaller trailer from Harbor Freight , called the Tag Along, ... the 4' tongue was to short, so I bought a 7' extension, it is still kinda short, but I made it workable, by adding 2 sections of 3" pvc schedule 80 which I staggered onto the trailer but got 2 bolts through each one, ... which xtended the trailer, ... but still have about 4' hanging off of the end, ... I wish UA-cam would allow us to post pics of various methods of doing stuff without posting a video, ...
sounds like an interesting set-up John . . . yeah, sometimes producing a video involves more time than a person has available . . . the PVC "bed rails" are great, however, on a FOLDING TRAILER such as mine, the pvc rails clash when attempting to fold the trailer so I had to come up with an alternative
Genius. Well done.
Great video! Could you back this down a boat ramp? Just curious if the electrical, paint, etc would hold up. Thinking about using for saltwater kayak fishing. Thanks.
thanks Johnny . . . I don't think I would submerge this particular trailer in water . . . I know harbor freight does make a very reasonably-priced BOAT TRAILER . . . I think that's what I would be looking at if I needed to back the watercraft in to the point where it off the trailer
Ok thanks Gary.
Nice video. I second your comments about the Harbor Freight trailer. I ran ground wires along with the signal and power wiring. Anytime you depend on bolt together construction for a ground, you will eventually have a problem. Also, I added washers everywhere to protect the paint when the bolts are tightened. It takes a good amount of time to assemble those trailers and get it done right. One question. Isn't the Pro Angler a pedal kayak? Don't you miss that? To me, it's a design flaw to have a fishing kayak that's not pedal propelled. Thoughts?
pedal-propelled kayaks are excellent . . . I did own a Hobie Pro Angler 14 the first year they came out . . . very expensive and a struggle for me to lift . . . I'm not young:( . . . once on the water they are a pleasure to fish out of because your hands are free for fishing . . . rivers, not so good especially in shallow stretches where the fins can easily be damaged . . . on lakes, having your hands free to fish is the "cat's meow" . . . it's great!
Thanks for the video. Very well made. Great info and I love the trailer.
hi Frank . . . thanks so much for your positive comments . . . very much appreciated
Thanks to your video, I have this same trailer set--up! Can I ask your method of taking the kayak off of this trailer? I haven't figured out a smooth way to do it yet as it seems awkward no matter which direction I try to take the kayak off.
I have the exact same yak. I love it and I am also looking for a trailer forIt. This looks like what I need. Hello from Carthage mo. We do the tournaments as well maybe we will fish with each other one day.
not far from you Jeremy . . . Springfield MO . . . some good fishing (topwater) coming up the next 6 weeks . . . I think you'll like the HF trailer for your 13.5 . . . makes you want to get out there even more knowing that loading and unloading is not an issue . . . you literally could pull the trailer and yak with a Prius . . . I actually checked into it . . . hope to see you out there sometime
Nice trailer. I have the FeelFree 11.5 Lure and LOVE IT. wondering if you think a woman could load the kayak on the trailer alone? My husband doesn't love to fish, so I need to find a trailer that I can launch and load the 75lb Lure by myself. Great video!
thanks for the positive comments Sparky1m . . . absolutely . . . this would work out very well for you . . . trailer is low to the ground meaning you will never lift more than half the weight of your Lure (37-38lbs) more than a height of two feet . . . very, very easy . . . you will also be able to lift the tongue of the trailer and maneuver it by hand without difficulty . . . have fun!
what a great looking set up.
thanks Paul . . . much appreciated:)
Nice stand up bar!!!!
very sturdy stand-up bar John . . . which also aids in pulling the kayak through low water when portaging
Can it be used to launch kayak in the water, ie is it waterproof (wheels/electrical) in the back of the trailer?
Awesome video Gary!
thanks . . . glad you enjoyed it
Great job. I've been considering doing this myself. Been interested in that specific trailer as a hurricane evacuation device. Lately, since I sold my truck, I've been unable to use my kayaks and thinking about a dual purpose trailer like this. It's got a total weight of only about 400 lbs. with everything (adding the boat and plywood to the trailer weight). Almost anything could pull that. I had a 1989 Suzuki Samurai back in that timeframe and I pulled a 15' V center console fishing boat with a 50 hp outboard, and the Suzuki only had a 1.3 liter engine with about 66 hp. If that Samurai could pull that boat, the just about anything could pull this trailer with a kayak on the back.
I agree retro . . . my 2016 Chevy Cruze 1.4, 4-cylinder pulls it beautifully . . . totally solid and 30-35 mpg while towing . . . 45 mpg on the highway when not towing
Hi Gary, Do you want your kayak like a boat? How well has that trailer held up now that it has been a while?
I have the same trailer for my kayaks...best $300+.love it...
yep! . . . sure is nice to save some bucks on the trailer to put toward the kayak(s) and gear:)
Reason I got the trailer. I was tired of loaded and unloading my kayak on and off the roof of my car.lol
I hear you Adam . . . my feelings exactly . . . I was struggling just to get it into the back of a pickup truck . . . and the bed of the truck was really not long enough for the 13.5, even with the tailgate down . . .
Don't feel bad, mine hangs half way off the back of my pickup! Plus by the time I get it up there and ratcheted down, I'm too tired to take it out!
Mmm… looks like a could have gotten away with less cash than I did with my Malone trailer. Nice set work/setup. I can tell you are a stickler for detail and workmanship. Great job. I'm going to look up more information on the FeelFree.
thanks David . . . if I would've purchased an actual "kayak trailer", it would have been the Malone . . . I'm sure you got a "quality" piece of equipment . . . they have an excellent reputation
I love the camo of your kayak
thanks . . . appreciate the positive comment
Nice setup 👍 and Awsome Trailer 👍
Do you have the link to purchase this trailer? i need an inexpensive good one for my 14ft kayak
Excellent! I have been thinking about using a HF folding trailer for quite some time. Its getting difficult for this Pancreatic cancer patient to be lifting my 65 pound Current Designs kayak on top of my roof all the time. I just wish you could have shown a shot of the trailer in its folded position.
Hi Mark . . . very sorry to hear about your medical challenge . . . I have a number of medical challenges myself and the low profile of the trailer makes loading and unloading quick and easy . . . when the trailer is folded, it only has a 2ft X 5ft footprint . . . I keep my kayak on it all the time . . . there are a number of youtube videos that show the trailer in the folded position and some actually demonstrate the entire folding and unfolding procedure . . . I did fold and unfold it after I assembled the trailer and it worked well . . . that being said, it is not something I would want to do every time I use the kayak if I was taking it out two or three times a week . . . for a weekend (unfolding it on a Friday and folding it back up after returning home on Sunday) . . . NO PROBLEM!!!
Thanks for the reply Gary.
really like that color scheme ...
thanks plutoplatters . . . I really appreciate all of your positive comments
I just looked at the trailers at HF in Joplin and they will go on sale next month for 349 form 400 sound like I need to make the trip to Springfield to your HF and hit up basspro when I am there. You always need something from basspro.
that's probably the "extra heavy duty" trailer (MSRP $400) . . . I bought the "heavy duty" (MSRP $300-$329) . . . in my case, it was $300 and with a coupon dropped to $249 . . . I think mine has a 1200lb capacity and I believe the $400 trailer has an 1800lb capacity . . . overkill for a kayak and/or light loads other than a kayak
Beautiful Kayak Sir!!!!!!!
thank you Jose . . . much appreciated:)
How does it travel? Not bouncy at higher speeds? Seems really light.
Hi Gary,
Nice work on the trailer. I have a Oldtown Predator 13 and have been lugging it around in the bed of my pickup.
Question, Do you take that right into the water to launch like a regular boat trailer, or unload it and then wheel the yak into the water?
Hi Jan . . . the trailer I used is not designated by Harbor Freight as a "boat" trailer. I do not back my actual wheels into the water, at least not to the point where the hub and/or axle of the trailer would be submerged. The bed of the trailer sits "low" to the ground, so you do not have to lift the kayak nearly as high as you would when you lift it into the bed of the pickup. If you back the trailer down a boat ramp, the angle and height of the kayak on the trailer will allow you to easily slide it off the trailer and into the water. Harbor Freight does make a "boat" trailer which, of course, can be backed into the water . . . however, it is longer, does not fold, is not multipurpose and would take up more space in a garage. If there is NO BOAT RAMP, and the kayak has to be "walked" a distance from the trailer to the water, I slide the kayak about one-third of the way off the rear of the trailer, strap on a kayak dolly and then wheel the kayak wijth very little effort down to the water. I use a Malone Clipper Deluxe Universal kayak kart (amazon $89). It is not a cart that fits into scupper holes, but instead, forms a cradle for the bottom of the kayak. I love it. If I have the cart/dolly positioned below the seat of the FeelFree Lure 13.5, I can actually lift the front of kayak WITH ONE FINGER. My Lure 13.5 actually has a "built-in wheel" in the rear which is fine to roll it a very short distance, but no comparison to the Malone. The Malone makes "childs play" of getting the kayak to the water. The advantage of a "cradle-style" cart is that you can position the cart at any point along the bottom of the kayak . . . you are not limited to the scupper hole positions. You can find a specific position on your particular kayak where there is a perfect balance between front and rear and the front of the kayak can then be lifted and rolled with EASE on the cart. The Malone cart is also light weight and collapsible so you could take it with you in the kayak if you know you will need it at a take-out spot on a float trip. Hope this helped:)
very impressive..........................actually TOO impressive.................watching this video makes me like I am visiting my Father In Laws garage which is perfectly organized and setup to be 125% efficient..................I always leave there feeling like a Loser
yep . . . that's me . . . thanks for the positive comment Mike . . . and thanks for making my day by making me laugh like crazy after reading your "feel like a loser" comment
Great video! Thanks! Awesome rigging!
Sir. I just bought this same trailer, and I’m rigging it just like yours. But I just have some questions. Did you replaced the wheel bearing grease on the wheel bearings, cause I’m planning to travel at least 150 miles radius for kayak fishing, since I live right at the border from Mexico. And don’t want to get stranded have way. And also the bolts to fold the trailer it has two on each side. Thanks
Hi Eduardo . . . I contacted management at the main office and they told me the grease in the wheel bearings does NOT need to be replaced . . . but I replaced it anyway because I felt they used a "minimum amount" of grease . . . I wanted more grease than what came with it . . . sure would like to see your finished trailer . . . have fun!!!
Gary, do you know if you are able to fold the trailer (if you remove the foam noodles) with the plywood you installed? Thanks
never did attempt to fold with noodles on the trsiler . . . I'm guessing as long as the noodles are offset slightly so they don't "collide" with each when folded, they should be able to remain in place:)
FeelFree has got to be the best fishn yak around!
hi Tony . . . it is an excellent kayak . . . especially when you consider the quality you're getting and the economical price you pay:)
Did you get the trailer already assembled or did you assemble it yourself? This is a fantastic idea that I am planning to copy for myself. Plus, I used to live in Springfield and worked at DPZ.
I assembled it myself . . . lay out all the parts . . . sand or wire brush paint wherever a wire is being grounded (tail lights) take your time and it's an EASY ASSEMBLY!
I just picked up this trailer as I had enough of the gas in the f-150. Tow it with the Chev Volt, can't even feel it back there. I have a Hobie PA and the Outback on the trailer. The Hobie works better for me, as I need my hands free for the fishing or the camera.
yeah, I do miss the pedal system (Mirage Drive) of the Hobie allowing you to fish and move at the same time . . . to me, that was the SINGLE BIGGEST ADVANTAGE of the Hobie
Very nice vid and beautiful rig!
Hi Ed . . . thanks so much for the positive feedback . . . much appreciated:)
Great setup and thank you for the video
thank you . . . glad you liked it
What is the dimensions of that trailer do you think you'll need a tongue extender for making turns and do you think a hobie pa14 would fit on that
the hobie pro angler is only 6 inches longer than my FeelFree and within an inch in width . . . I have no problems whatsoever making turns . . . it will work out fine for your hobie . . . my first kayak was the hobie pro angler . . . very nice kayak . . . no tongue extender needed . . . it is a 4 X 8 trailer bed
All of the harbor freight trailers have a speed limit of 45mph stated in the owners manual.
appreciate the updated info . . . shortly after I bought my trailer three years ago, they had a tire issue and requested that certain tires be brought back and exchanged . . . they exchanged my tires for Carlisle tires and also included new wheels . . . I talked to several managers and regional people after the replacement and they assured me that the 55 mph suggested speed would be totally safe
How does it handle highway speeds?
Kool kayak!
thanks . . . no problem at all but I do not go over 60mph . . . don't even know it's on the back of the tow vehicle:)
I've owned one of these trailers for a few years. It can handle 70MPH if the trailer is loaded correctly. Check the hubs and tires often and you can expect years of use. I've towed Mowers and Motorcycles across the country with this folding trailer.
How does that trailer do for highway driving? Can you put larger tires on it?
Hey! Tried the trailer for the first time and the tires were locking up. What do you think I did wrong?
Did you use exterior grade plywood or just made sure that has a good seal? Great looking set up.
Tom Hall thanks, It's not an exterior grade of plywood, just an average builders grade . . . primed and sealed it first with KILZ then went over it with a rock-hard interior/exterior enamel by BEHR from HOME DEPOT that I had custom mixed to match a photo I showed them of the lime green color on the kayak . . . never seen anything like it . . . after putting on one coat the directions say you MUST let it cure for SEVEN DAYS . . . and, for sure, it took a full seven days . . . it was dry to the touch before 7 but if you pushed on it with your finger, you could feel softness . . . after a full 7 days, it turned amazingly ROCK HARD! . . . and then I did a second coat and let it cure for another full 7 . . . the result is like an ARMOR COAT OF PROTECTION! . . . it takes patience to wait 7 days but talk about protection from the elements . . . WOW!
It's so pretty. Love it.
thanks yo . . . appreciate your comment
Excellent job. I was thinking about buying one of these to put a two man fishing boat on. Yours is the best set up I've seen. How long did it take you to put it all together?
thanks jerry . . . actually the trailer can be assembled and wired . . . and the plywood can be cut all in a half day . . . it's the enamel paint that literally takes 7 DAYS TO CURE AFTER EACH COAT but it does dry "rock hard" for awesome protection after that time:)
Awesome job. Looks 👍
Hi - when you get to the lake, do you get the trailer into the water? I’m wondering about corrosion and rapid temperature changes affecting the wheel assembly.
hi CB72 . . . I do not back trailer into the water . . . I usually stop short of the waters edge and slide kayak off very easily in to the water
You're correct about this. No trailer should go in the water unless it is designed to (bearing buddies or the like).
How fast can you go pulling the trailer? I live in FL where the speed limit is 70 mph. People commonly drive 80+ mph. Please let me know your max speed with this set up.
can't say . . . I always tow between 60 and 65mph . . . no problems, don't even know it's there:)
I tow it 60 to 65mph . . . never any faster . . . don't even know it's there . . . never pushed it beyond that speed
Thought this about your trailer?
What size is this trailer I’m looking to do the same for my kayak
Is the Trailer lights water proof? So that you can just back it in to knee deep an float it out, without carry the kay any distance to launch it?
rainproof but not designated as submersible . . . same with hubs . . . I do not back my trailer into the water, only near the water . . . HF does make a boat boat trailer
Nice Vid - I think I know the answer but any chance (2) kayaks would fit? I don't believe you gave the width but imagine it's 48"w.
bolt on angle iron vertical uprights supporting a second level 20 inches above the first allows you to easily slide a second kayak onto trailer:)
Like the hazard tape.
Adventures with Frodo thanks