Hi From Noobie JOHN on Long Island N.Y.

[JDHIV]

Hi folks, I'm a single 37 year old science teacher from Long Island N.Y. and I own an old Coleman ValleyForge that I confirmed today (8/13/13) has bit the dust as a pop-up is likely going to get gutted starting tomorrow and be reborn as a teardrop. I have been "lurking" on this site for a few days and have seen so much that my head is on the verge of spinning (but in a good way). I have questions that I can't find answers to via the SEARCH functions and I'll try to be cognizant of not being repetitive, and conducting myself in a respectful manner. I'm not sure if this intro post is where I can post Q's.....so, I'll post them here for now and MAYbe repeat them in a more appropriate area (IF I can find one !-).

Q's:
I own a 2005 Honda Accord V6 Sedan...the towing capacity according to the owners manual is a measly 1000 lb with a requisite tongue-weight of 10% of that (i.e., 100lbs). I'm also 6'3" tall and weigh just over 200 lbs....so I can't (and really won't) go too tiny (or foamy?) on a TD build. Cost is of course a factor but I'm willing to err on the side of expense if it means weight-savings and/or longevity; all within reason.

1.....How heavy of a trailer/TD/TTT do you all use with a car like mine? I know vehicles are different and engine size is not the only factor. Front wheel drive is another, as is transmission as well as brakes...and maybe wheelbase.

2..... If any of you use a 2003-2007 Honda Accord v6 (or 4 cylinder)....I WOULD LOVE to know what you tow with it !!!!!

3......I'll be starting with whatever basic trailer is the foundation of an old Coleman Valley Forge model of popup trailer and looking to go as light as I can in the construction. I will have a dog and some valuables so a "foamy/foamie" won't cut it. And I would like to have insulation so I don't think I'll be wanting to go and make a simple "woodie". I'd like to get the dry-weight to max out around 850-900 lbs or so...giving me a little wiggle room with other trip-necessities like a cooler and other "accessories".................so, WHAT ARE METHODS TO get light-weight without sacrificing on space/comfort???

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for any help and suggestions that I know this awesome community can provide!!

_John

[deleted]

Hi John,

I'm towing my mini canned ham with a 1994 Acura Integra 4 cylinder. Its tow capacity was also #1000 lbs. The fully insulated (rigid foam board), aluminum skinned trailer weighs in at #554 lbs dry. I wanted to keep my trailer weight at around #500 lbs since there would be more weight with my own, my dog, and everything in my trunk to add to the recommended tow limit. I did replace my radiator (it was still the original one) and added a transmission oil cooler, as well as replacing all of my hoses and belts before leaving CA to drive to MI to pick up the trailer. We did add electric brakes to the trailer even though they aren't legally required in CA for trailers under #1500 lbs.

My builder Fred (alaska teardrop) here on the forum uses a welded metal frame construction rather than wood which makes his trailers light enough for a commuter car to safely tow. Check out his Northern Light Build thread for more details: http://www.tnttt.com/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=51991 Though larger than my Glampette it weighs even less dry.

Since July The Glampette has driven the passes of Montana and Idaho on I-90, Grant's pass on I-5, and just two weeks ago Donner Pass on I-80 with no problems at all going up or downhill.

You can see documentation of my build in the link below the pictures in my signature.

Best wishes on whatever you decide to do and if you have any other questions about towing with a 4 cylinder feel free to ask.

[JDHIV]

Thanks Stacie!!
So, did I post my Q's in the right place? It looks like I might have (I hope) !

I am going to be doing this all myself (& maybe a friend or two to help on occasion) and I'd love to use aluminum...I'd love even more to be able to have someone else build it with his methods!!

As far as the aluminum goes I can't really bend it or rivet it. If it is a good deal lighter than using whatever basic wood is called for in many plans, then I would see if I could just drill into it.

Also, I s'pose I'll do a search for metal and/or PVC tube construction and see what I can find.

I'm also at the mercy of whatever my popup's actual trailer portion weighs on its own to start...but I think it is a far more roadworthy option as compared to the HF trailers many people use.

Thanks!!
_John