Northern Tool 40" x 48" Trailer

[COExplr]

I haven't tried the Hiker but I feel we will be more than comfortable in the 5x8 as we are shorter people.

We are doing a fair bit of upgrades but I am still trying to decide on what to do with the electrical system. I will have them run cables at the minimum but I am not sure if I want to go with the new small battery package or upgrade to the bigger battery. I do like the idea of building my own system because it will be cheaper and I can customize it to what I need power for. The downside is that I am not experienced in electrical work so I will need to research everything to make sure I install everything correctly...

Sounds like we are in the same boat... I'm looking forward to learning as I go with the electrical! I've done some planning on where I want them to run wires and pigtail the ends for me to make the connections. You can get most, if not all, the USB outlets, switches and misc. connectors off Amazon. After you get your order in and get your order number, join the Facebook group. There is a plethora of information and guidance that current, past and future owners have posted... so much it will make your head spin!

 

[Tyler.W]

Can you detail exactly what the 12v prep and wiring package (package 4) entails? I emailed them but I just want to double check with what Rob said for you. I feel this may be a good option because I can think over the course of the 13 month wait (WOW!) on what exactly I want to run in the trailer and plan my build that way.

 

[Nomadik Nova]

I'm with ArkansasDon in saying you made a good choice with the Hiker Trailer. I'm in the queue for a mid-range build out of the Denver location - they are all a great bunch to work with. Which size are you going with 5x8 or 5x9? I elected for the 5x9 and after demoing a 5x8 for several days, I'm happy I upgraded. The extra foot split between the galley and cabin (elected the 24" galley option) will be nice... at 6 feet tall I found my feet constantly hitting the wall while laying down on the bed in the 5x8 demo.
As you are deciding on other build components, I'm happy to tell you what I elected and why. I did see that you are looking at the electrical packages. Rob (owner out of Denver) and I went back and forth on this and I elected the prep and wiring upgrade packages - this saves some money to put in other options if you are willing to spend some time after taking delivery of the trailer to do the switch, lights, fuse panel, battery, etc. hook-ups yourself. Rob is doing the base wiring for me so it can be hidden in the ceiling and frame during the build. These trailers can be modified significantly yourself down the road, so I'm having them focus on the core options that would be a little more difficult to retrofit later - it all does still add up though!

I’m seriously considering a Hiker. Looking forward to seeing all options at Expo East!

 

[Tyler.W]

I’m seriously considering a Hiker. Looking forward to seeing all options at Expo East!

You know... I wasn't planning on going to the event but now that you mention it maybe we should to check the trailers out in person!

 

[Nomadik Nova]

You know... I wasn't planning on going to the event but now that you mention it maybe we should to check the trailers out in person!

I’m a tactile person, like to touch/feel products before purchasing. Especially something this big.

Also, I’m 6’4”.... need to see comfort level.

 

[COExplr]

Can you detail exactly what the 12v prep and wiring package (package 4) entails? I emailed them but I just want to double check with what Rob said for you. I feel this may be a good option because I can think over the course of the 13 month wait (WOW!) on what exactly I want to run in the trailer and plan my build that way.

So in regards to my build, these two packages together are:
- Running the main 12v power from my front toolbox to the rear galley where I will plug into the fuse box
- Running the 110 volt from the tool box connection to the rear galley, for use with shore power (rarely if at all will I use this :-) )
- Main power wire from rear to the front cabin area to tap into for what you want to do
- Main wire to the vent opening for the optional fan
- I believe two lights will be connected as well (can't remember if it is one or two)

I've put together a pretty detailed wiring diagram that will lay on top of the main packages which Rob will estimate - mainly a couple more main power wires and switch wires going back to a couple combo switch, USB, DC, voltmeter panels (one in the cabin and one in the galley). This latter piece is not included in the core of the two prep packages so it will be an increased cost but definitely worth it... I will just need to add connectors, battery, fuses, etc.

 

[COExplr]

I’m a tactile person, like to touch/feel products before purchasing. Especially something this big.

Also, I’m 6’4”.... need to see comfort level.

Did you make it to Expo East to take a look at these?

 

[Nomadik Nova]

Did you make it to Expo East to take a look at these?

I did! It was a muddy mess, but it was fun. :)

 

[Tyler.W]

I did not! I think we are holding off on the trailer for now until we can figure out what exactly we are looking for. For now we will load up the Jeep for tent camping!

 

[armyRN]

I know... old thread. However...

Don't knock the little Northern Tool or HF-type 4' trailer frames when building an overlanding trailer. I've got thousands of miles on this little HF-based trailer doing some crazy stuff. It is amazing how much stuff you can put into (and on) one of these little trailers.

Properly modified (not too difficult) they're quite robust. Here's a long (very long) thread, but lots of good info. Once you get though reading it, you'll be like "I can build one of those".

Mini Harbor Freight (type) Trailer Ultimate Build-Up Thread - JeepForum.com

Lets face it, there's only so much you can fit in the back of a Jeep, even with the rear seat removed. Some folks get pretty creative with Rubbermaid

www.jeepforum.com