So it begins with my 2012 Scion iQ...

[BamZipPow]

Well, 30 year old carbon steel hinges didn't last that long. Two of them snapped off while I was opening the lid up.

I can definitely tell the weight difference (maybe 75lbs to 100lbs?) when driving around topless.

I've got some stainless steel angle brackets and stainless steel hinges coming in to fab out some replacements. The hardware fer this alone is about $80 (bolts, washers, nuts, hinges, brackets).

[BamZipPow]

I might even be tempted to make a quick lightweight lid from some Foamular, a cargo net, and cargo straps vs putting the original lid back on.

[freebeard]

The frame is too wide at the back. Will you eventually cut-and-shut some taper into it?

[BamZipPow]

Originally Posted by freebeard

The frame is too wide at the back. Will you eventually cut-and-shut some taper into it?

I'm not looking to modify this frame. If I have enough resources and skill sets, I might look into building a custom single wheel frame that would incorporate the ideal shape fer an aerodynamic single wheel frame. I think the shape of the Allstate single wheel frame would be ideal as it's built that way.

[BamZipPow]

I had an opportunity to play with the height of the arm attachments today. I originally put them low (front is below level) as others have been saying this is the ideal position. I experienced "bucking" while driving at any speed. I raised the front 2" above (slightly above level) and the "bucking" is gone. I designed my attachment (made with 1/4" steel plate) to be totally adjustable in height so I can raise/lower it well above/below level as a test. While this may not work fer most single wheel trailers, it's been working fine fer this one.

[freebeard]

Want:



Now I'm looking differently toward my Westfallia.

[BamZipPow]

Originally Posted by freebeard

Want:



Now I'm looking differently toward my Westfallia.

The problem is finding one fer sale that isn't so expensive that you'd be better off making one yerself.

The key is the swivel wheel system. This is the only company that makes one fer sale. Everyone else will not sell just the swivel wheel mechanism without the trailer.
https://crystalwelding.com/360-swivel-axle/

[freebeard]

At one time, I contemplated a 'floater' with a wheelie bar or skid for ground strikes.

Something like this:




Looking at that first picture today, I wonder if paneling in the bike rack would make a 'base plate' to substitute for the Kamm-back that would compromise engine cooling.

[BamZipPow]

Making a quick run to Arkansas and the chairs I need to bring won't fit with the lid on...so off comes the lid! I've also made a quick mudflap.

[BamZipPow]

Modified the adapter plates by notching them out fer clearance fer the front landing gear when going over a steep bump/hill. I figure about 4-5lbs cut out of the plates. The Diablo Steel Demon worked perfectly fer cutting the 1/4" plates! One shop wanted about $100 just to make the same cuts.

After dropping off the chairs in Arkansas, I had to transport a dining table and 6 chairs. The shop owner didn't think it would fit on top of the car and didn't figure I'd have a trailer hooked up to a small car.

I guess I could use the adapter plates as support/attachment points fer my side gap covers. I could even attempt a box cavity with those as well.