Best Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300

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Most popular comments
for Best Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300

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mksouthon - 8 years ago

let's forget the kayak for a minute and just talk about your grass... how on earth do you keep it looking so nice?

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

mksouthon I still laugh whenever I see your comment . . . very witty, great sense of humor!

JW Rhyne Jr. - 8 years ago

Great video! Thanks! Awesome rigging!

Tech - 8 years ago

That looks like an absolutely fantastic setup, Gary. Nice job.

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

thanks Tech . . . I really appreciate the positive comment . . . adds a lot to my day:)

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

Tech thanks, I really appreciate the positive comment . . . makes my day:)

Flash - 8 years ago

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!

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

thanks Flash, your positive comments made my day . . . very much appreciated!

Flash - 8 years ago

Napoleon Pineda - 8 years ago

Does the trailer needs to be registered to the motor vehicles office?

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

Napoleon Pineda yes, in the state of Missouri

Panfish - 8 years ago

What is the tongue weight for that trailer? Can you put a scale on the end and see how much it is?

Panfish - 8 years ago

Thanks!!!!

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

Panfish exactly 44.4 lbs with the kayak positioned properly on the trailer and the trailer sitting level relative to the hitch but resting on a block of wood pushing down on a very accurate weight watchers scale and, of course, subtracting the weight of the wood from the total on the scale . . . hope I was able to help

Tom Emard - 8 years ago

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.

Al Clements - 8 years ago

Gary, I went by harbor Freight and all their trailers are on recall due to the tires splitting apart. Best to check with your local store and inquire.

REPLY

Al Clements - 8 years ago

Gary Bromberger I wish I could say the same for our HF here in Gainesville FL. The manager told me that all of his trailers have been sent back and he is not expecting any more. May have to go out of state to get one. He had discounted the trailer to $199.00 before the recall.

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

Al Clements I just finished talking to the store manager of my HF store . . . he indicated that very definitely there has NOT been a second recall involving certain defective tires on some HF trailers . . . my original tires were one of the defective tires recalled by HF and were promptly replaced with Carlisle tires which are safe, perform well and are not being recalled

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

Al Clements thanks, they already replaced mine with Carlisle but I'll stop in tomorrow to see if the Carlisle replacement has now also been determined to be faulty . . . I'll post my findings when I find out

IllinoisFlyFishing - 8 years ago

those harbor freight trailers are now on recall

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

wheels and tires were replaced at no charge by HF due to some brands of factory tires having a flaw . . . my tires were replaced with Carlisle Sport tires

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

IllinoisFlyFishing they were recalled because certain tires installed on the trailer had a flaw from the factory . . . they replaced my tires with Carlisle Sport tires . . . hopefully all is well following the replacement of both wheels and tires at no charge

10. comment for Best Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300

Go Fish - 8 years ago

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.

Go Fish - 8 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

RipLine Fishing thanks so much for the positive comment . . . Really appreciate . . . you'll love the trailer . . . have fun

Drackkor - 8 years ago

How sad a trailer for a Kayak.

BOSS MAN - 8 years ago

Drackkor... You're just mad because you have to put your Kayak on the roof of your pink Prius.

Frank Soria - 8 years ago

Thanks for the video. Very well made. Great info and I love the trailer.

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

hi Frank . . . thanks so much for your positive comments . . . very much appreciated

Moondog9322 - 8 years ago

Nice video, but you didn't mention anything about assembly of the trailer. What's the difficulty rating? Instructions clear?

Moondog9322 - 8 years ago

Nice job...thanks for sharing. Harbor Freight has temporarily discontinued the trailer due to tires not passing DOT specs. ??

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

hi moondog . . . instructions are very clear . . . difficulty rating maybe a 2.5/10 . . . there are many videos on YouTube showing the basic assembly of the trailer and also the folding and unfolding steps . . . I only mentioned some of the less obvious things not mentioned in the instructions such as the necessity of removing paint in areas where wire connections are made to the frame, adding reflective tape for increased night visibility in all directions, adding a 6 ft flag to the rear of kayak, a handle and a dolly jack to the front of the tongue for ease of maneuvering the trailer by hand, etc

Kiel Mackinnon - 8 years ago

NEW ZEALAND Shout Out YEAH BOI

Kieron Bevan - 8 years ago

Beautiful

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

thanks Kieron . . . much appreciated

Mark Thomas - 8 years ago

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.

Mark Thomas - 8 years ago

Thanks for the reply Gary.

Gary Bromberger - 8 years ago

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!!!

retrodog63 - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Alan Call - 9 years ago

They're definitely not sturdy don't believe it very lightweight trailer need to weld every joint to someone be safe would not halt on Highway long trips junk you don't want to kill anybody on the highway when that thing comes apart

ELyon47 - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

20. comment for Best Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300

sparky1rn - 9 years ago

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!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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!

Hemp W Hall - 9 years ago

Great video. Thank you

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks for the positive comments . . . much appreciated

patw421 - 9 years ago

Great video. Nice job on the trailer (what size is the trailer?). Thanks for sharing. p.s. I need you to organize my garage!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

lol . . . thanks for the positive comments patw421 . . . trailer is 4X8 and folds up into a 2ft X 5ft footprint

John Sims - 9 years ago

Nice stand up bar!!!!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

very sturdy stand-up bar John . . . which also aids in pulling the kayak through low water when portaging

Jesmine Ryckman - 9 years ago

Hey! Tried the trailer for the first time and the tires were locking up. What do you think I did wrong?

Capt. Butch Rickey - 9 years ago

Thanks, Gary. I ordered a RightOn trailer Monday for $599 + shipping. It's ranked 3rd out of the top 10 kayak trailers, outranked only by Yakima and Malone. It's much lighter than the Bulldog I had, and that's what I was after, as I have an aortic aneurysm. Thanks!

Capt. Butch Rickey - 9 years ago

Thanks, Gary. I think it will be great for me.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

congrats captain . . . sounds like a great choice at a very reasonable price . . . have fun!!!

Mike Burdette - 9 years ago

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

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Bob Vislocky - 9 years ago

Nice Job, enjoy!!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks Bob . . . appreciate your positive comment

IndyGlockMan - 9 years ago

Great video! I have a Lure 10 and love it. I'll be visiting Harbor Freight tomorrow. Thank you!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Capt. Butch Rickey - 9 years ago

You're more than welcome. It's very well done, and looks great, too. Do you know if there's a tongue extender available for those trailers?

30. comment for Best Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300

M Morton - 9 years ago

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.

Capt. Butch Rickey - 9 years ago

Thanks, Gary. I looked at many videos and pictures of the trailer and in not one was I able to see if it was rigid axle or sprung. Do you know if there's a tongue extender available for that trailer? I have a 16 ft. FX 16 Ultimate. OF all the DIY trailers I've watched videos of, yours is tops.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

not aware of any tongue extender for this particular HF trailer Captain

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

your compliment on the video made my day . . . thanks so much

Capt. Butch Rickey - 9 years ago

Anyone know if this trailer has any suspension underneath?

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

hey captain . . . just leaf springs . . . no shocks

824rmrock - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

824rmrock - 9 years ago

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

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Romenite NY - 9 years ago

Think you went a little overboard with the reflective tape !

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

I can definitely see your point of view . . . the trailer sits low to the ground . . . the first time I took it on the road, a vehicle "tapped" me from behind while I was stopped at a red light . . . no harm done, but perhaps it made me a little paranoid about needing to be more visible . . . thus the addition or maybe even over-addition of the reflective tape at all angles for maximum visibility

Baldwin Outdoors - 9 years ago

That's a nice job on the trailer! Good video.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

hi Baldwin Outdoors . . . thanks for the positive comment . . . much appreciated

Rob Stone - 9 years ago

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

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks RS . . . good idea on the additional reflective tape suggestion . . . thanks

Mark Sigsbee - 9 years ago

Which make trailer?

Leo GP - 9 years ago

I love the camo of your kayak

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks . . . appreciate the positive comment

M Morton - 9 years ago

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?

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Travis West - 9 years ago

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...

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks, good idea . . . sometimes it is definitely a little tricky attempting to balance the 13.5 on a single wheel

Bite Mee - 9 years ago

Looks like it was copied from Old Town?!?!

Rocky - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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!

Jack Taylor - 9 years ago

Where did you get the flag and pole ? And attachment to attach to the trailer ?

M Morton - 9 years ago

Gary ,that was my thought as well. The flag could serve double purposes. An attention getter on road as well as the water. Big boaters seem to see color and motion on the water.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

Hi Jack . . . got it at walmart . . . $5.95 for flag with pole . . . the flag and pole are attached to the kayak itself . . . not the actual trailer . . .

Scene Seekers - 9 years ago

very nice!!

senatus57 - 9 years ago

yes is kayak full service- but....god DONT EXIST eh....ridicolous

Jacob Nortan - 9 years ago

hey you do t live to far

plutoplatters - 9 years ago

really like that color scheme ...

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks plutoplatters . . . I really appreciate all of your positive comments

plutoplatters - 9 years ago

really like the "stand up" handrail ... I think that's the purpose ...

plutoplatters - 9 years ago

great set up... far easier than rooftop... great also to just back kayak into the water

50. comment for Best Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300

Just Cause - 9 years ago

Do you just have the plywood strapped down or did you bolt it to the trailer anywhere?

Just Cause - 9 years ago

Thanks

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

Rodney Anthony . . . plywood is bolted to metal framework . . . noodles are held in place with straps that pass through noodle, around and under framework

Scott Harrell - 9 years ago

did this model come with the 12" wheels? I see the ones listed now have 12" wheels (better for highway speeds) and updated wheel bearings. I just purchased the same yak and thinking about this trailer as a way to haul it.

Scott Harrell - 9 years ago

The bearing worry me a little but I'm going to pull them and repack. Then hope for the best.

Scott Harrell - 9 years ago

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/k4MehN4SVbe8StDhef_PqAxobZ1Bzs-wL_IXRANuerFY52jH31VUX5pvuCbSjcurJKwja-n2

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

12" wheels came on the trailer and seem to do well at 55-60mph

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

Scott Harrell . . . came with 12" wheels

Frangelico Rivera - 9 years ago

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...

Alan Call - 9 years ago

trailers are junk Never follow behind

bikerh - 9 years ago

how much did they charge u for fright? on the trailer.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

I picked it up at my Harbor Freight store in Springfield MO . . . they loaded into my vehicle . . . no charge

Johnny Freeman - 9 years ago

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.

Johnny Freeman - 9 years ago

Ok thanks Gary.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Brian Rundle - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Jeremy Lee - 9 years ago

That is a real nice setup you have there. The pool noodles are genius. I am working on my trailer and have seen the pvc setup but with the pool noodles no chance of damaging my transducer. Thanks for the ideas. Nothing like the you tube community for good Ideas to steal.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

I couldn't agree more Jeremy about the value of the YouTube COMMUNITY . . . thank you for your positive comments . . . glad I could add some additional possibilities to the design of your particular project

Matthew Ryckman - 9 years ago

What is the tongue weight on this trailer?

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

take an accurate scale . . . make sure trailer is level as it would be when towing . . . cut a piece of wood the size needed to fit between the surface of the scale and the tongue of the trailer . . . allow the trailer tongue to rest on the wood which in turn pushes against the surface of the scale . . . subtract the weight of the piece of wood from the total displayed on the scale . . . there you have the weight of the tongue

Matthew Ryckman - 9 years ago

how did you measure that?

Matthew Ryckman - 9 years ago

great thank you!! my rav4 has a 150 pound tongue weight limit

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

update/clarification . . . the tongue weight of 44.4 pounds is with the 97 pound FeelFree Lure 13.5 kayak positioned properly on the trailer

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

EXACTLY 44.4 pounds

Luis Martins - 9 years ago

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

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Rick Cooper - 9 years ago

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 YouTube product review videos were done this well. Thanks!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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!!!

William Roberts - 9 years ago

Gary, How did you go about making your safety flag on the back of the feel free? I'd like to do something to my yak. Great video by the way...love your set up!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks for the positive comments William . . . very much appreciated . . . the rear molded factory handle on the kayak came with a half-inch round opening passing through it vertically for the option of attaching a foot-controlled rudder . . . I simply took a 6 inch bolt with a 5/16 inch diameter and inserted it through the hole from the bottom up . . . on each side of the opening of the handle I have metal and rubber washers along with a nut and lock washer tightened firmly against the handle to secure the bolt and hold it in a vertical position with the threaded shank of about 5 inches extending upward above the handle . . . to this, I zip-tied the bottom of the pole of the flag to the upward extending threaded shank of the bolt . . . this allows plenty of flexibility at highway speeds . . . bends, but doesn't break! . . . kind of difficult to explain without a photos or another video

MA Kayak Bassin' - 9 years ago

Be careful with this and basically any Harbor Freight trailer. They're great for the money, but most everyone misses this important info from the manual:

Do not exceed 45 miles per hour when towing the Trailer.

retrodog63 - 8 years ago

He's probably got the trailer rated at 1100-1200 lbs. And he's only hauling about 100 lbs. I think it will survive. I unwittingly bought the one rated at 1750 lbs, thinking I'd do that to get the bigger wheels/tires. Well I did, but I'm only hauling about 150 lbs on it (Hobie Outback and equipment) so the springs are waaaayyyy over sized. So it's like having almost no suspension at all. That's the only real problem I've seen with using these trailers for hauling kayaks. If the bearings burn out using these trailers like this, it'll simply be because they are cheap Chinese bearing packs.

mikaila31 - 9 years ago

It states 45mph is recommended maximum speed, the same thing U-haul trailers state. Its a liability thing, nothing to do with the trailer itself. Replace the tires(possibly hubs if you have issues), I've towed mine at 70mph for hours with kayaks and 500lb motorcycle. The OEM tires are rated to 55mph, which I have been using with no problem, but most my loads are very light.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

I agree MA Bass Fishing . . . thanks for your input . . . this is not a trailer you want to pull for long periods of time at high speeds . . . I have had no problems towing at 55-60 . . . I am always feeling the hubs with my hand to make sure they are running cool and tightening the lug nuts and inflation before each trip . . . so far it has performed well and the hubs, even on very hot days last summer, remained cool

Ask The Pro DJ - 9 years ago

I dont like it, it looks ugly. Kinda looks like those cheap Harbor Freight Job, Ghetto.

Drew Dempsey - 9 years ago

You are the biggest troll on Youtube, all you do is drop negative comments. Go away, no one likes you.

Blind Lemon Lipschitz - 9 years ago

Go away.

Ask The Pro DJ - 9 years ago

Ugliest Kayak Trailer EVER!!! $300

Blind Lemon Lipschitz - 9 years ago

Try watching the video or at least reading the damn description. Not that it would matter since it's clear you just wanted to be a negative dink.

Jerry Hicks - 9 years ago

Great input on a simple and cost effective solution. Nicely done. Thanks

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks Jerry for your positve comment . . . much appreciated

John E. Osman III - 9 years ago

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 Youtube would allow us to post pics of various methods of doing stuff without posting a video, ...

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Really Happenings - 9 years ago

This is the rig of a man who accepts no compromises when it comes to his boat!

AKBuilder762 - 9 years ago

warloc20 You get pretty emotional over kayaks don't you.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thank you again RH . . . your positive comments are MUCH APPRECIATED!!

Really Happenings - 9 years ago

What a beautiful area you live in, hadn't seen this type of look before. Nice looking rig, and your enthusiasm. God bless you.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks RH . . . your extremely positive comments MADE MY DAY! . . . very, very kind of you indeed

JD Jackson - 9 years ago

instead of the pool noodles and ratchet straps, try using 2 sections of 2" pvc as bunks.

JD Jackson - 9 years ago

Gary Bromberger gotcha

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

Hi JD . . . thanks for your input . . . I considered PVC bunks but this is a "foldable" trailer and, when folding, the PVC bunks on the front half will collide with the bunks on the rear half and not allow the trailer to folded . . . occasionally, I do remove the kayak from the trailer, store it on its side and fold up the trailer

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

https://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:)

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

+DxSxFx4Him hi DX . . . no problem whatsoever with turns . . . somehow the photo must make the yak look closer than it actually is

DxSxFx4Him - 9 years ago

Gary Bromberger is it hard to make turns like this since it is so close to your car?

Swing4gr8nessN8 - 9 years ago

Thank you for the update. I was wondering if my small car could haul this

C Eugene - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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!!!

J-swizzle 19 - 9 years ago

Was this whole thing a promotion? Geez

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

Hi Justin . . . it may sound like it, but the answer is no . . . I was simply soooo pleased with this trailer and kayak combo along with the overall combined price that I wanted to pass this information along to as many people as possible . . . I was so frustrated with the price of kayak trailers ($1000 to $2000) along with the price of quality, larger fishing kayaks ($3000+), that this kayak/trailer combo to me was like defying the competition and the trending nation-wide accepted price points . . . in other words, and in my humble opinion, this combo is quality and crushes the competition in terms of dollars spent . . . I have received NO COMPENSATION AND NO FREEBIES FROM ANYONE . . . I was simply very pleased and excited about the combo and the way in which it performed shortly after having taken it on the road and on the Buffalo River . . . hopefully, my experience and positive review of the kayak and trailer will help others save a substantial amount of money and get on the water sooner rather than later

Johan Cespedes - 9 years ago

Great setup and thank you for the video

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thank you . . . glad you liked it

phon inta - 9 years ago

you can town that trailer up to 70 miles/ h?

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

tires rated at 55mph . . . I tow between 60-65mph consistently with no problems

Rhys31 - 9 years ago

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!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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!!!

Adam McKinney - 9 years ago

I have the same trailer for my kayaks...best $300+.love it...

Larry Talbot - 9 years ago

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!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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 . . .

Adam McKinney - 9 years ago

Reason I got the trailer. I was tired of loaded and unloading my kayak on and off the roof of my car.lol

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

yep! . . . sure is nice to save some bucks on the trailer to put toward the kayak(s) and gear:)

Don Livermore - 9 years ago

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.

Don Livermore - 9 years ago

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

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Derrick Morris - 9 years ago

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!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks Derrick . . . really appreciate your input

Frank LoGrande - 9 years ago

Also I was told that the bearings on these trailers don't last and should be replaced with higher performance bearings...Any thoughts on that? One last thing you should have a spare tire for that trailer.

Larry Talbot - 9 years ago

I talked to a guy at the store who owned one "for ages" as he said. He was looking up upgrade to the Super Heavy Duty (?) and I asked him a ton of questions He said He repacked the bearings when he first got it "many years ago" but never had a single problem. He said the secret to longevity is 2 things. 1) Don't over tighten the bearings, and 2) Never overload the trailer. The only other thing he said was its better to buy a replacement wiring kit to avoid a ton of headaches down the road. Other than that he said "every buck was well spent!"

Frank LoGrande - 9 years ago

Gary Bromberger I heard about the grease as well along with making sure the hubs are not hot to the touch as well. I think what I will do is carry a set of bearings just in case I have to change on the spot...not hard at all to do.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks for your input Frank . . . hadn't heard that Frank regarding the bearings . . . only that in years past many owners suggested changing the bearing grease before use to a higher grade premium grease . . . I did put a premium grease in mine during assembly even though the HF store manager told me that it wasn't necessary . . . also on the first couple of trips I stopped several times and felt the hubs with my hands . . . each time the hubs were cool . . . no excessive heat whatsoever . . . and this was after highway speeds of 55-60 on 90 degree days . . . I've been cautious in checking every aspect of the trailer and its performance . . . I'm impressed, having found no obvious shortcomings with the trailer . . . I definitely agree with you on the spare tire, which will be my next purchase . . . a must-have on any trailer

Frank LoGrande - 9 years ago

Let me recommend spraying a clear coat on any surfaces that have not been painted, i.e. bolts, nuts, side brackets etc. to reduce rust buildup.

Frank LoGrande - 9 years ago

Gary Bromberger I always use stainless steel where I can as well. I also just finished installing my minn Kota, can't wait to get it out on the water.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

good idea Frank . . . I actually try to substitute "stainless" hardware whenever and wherever possible . . . just something my dad (also named Frank) taught me over the years

David Massey - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Ed Forbes - 9 years ago

Very nice vid and beautiful rig!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

Hi Ed . . . thanks so much for the positive feedback . . . much appreciated:)

six6tysix - 9 years ago

do you think one could modify the hubs and make it so it can be backed into the water?

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

don't really know six without researching it . . . wouldn't want to speculate and give you the wrong info . . . certainly would be a good fix providing cost is within reason

S Grzymkowski - 9 years ago

In Ohio, that same trailer from Harbor Freight, to have it shipped to my front door, and after all the shipping costs including charge for a liftgate fee $700 comes from Japan made from beer cans

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

wow, thanks for the info . . . I was not aware of that . . . in the past, I have always been impressed by both German and Japanese innovation and technology . . . and now, with this new info you have put forth, I am even more impressed!! . . . to think that this trailer is made from beer cans is amazing!! . . . however, if you think about it, the combination of Japanese technology and German beer cans could easily result in a superior product . . . yeah, it all makes perfect sense to me now:)

Jeremy Boothe - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Jeremy Boothe - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

Jan Dor - 9 years ago

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?

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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:)

Paul Hughes - 9 years ago

what a great looking set up.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks Paul . . . much appreciated:)

NKC Productions - 9 years ago

+Gary Bromberger awesome video! im getting the 11.5 lure in november and looking to get trailer. what is the size of the trailer?

Larry Talbot - 9 years ago

The 20% coupons on longer work. They are not usable for anything big (trailers, welders, generators, etc.) any longer. Its best to just look for the best sale you can find. Normally you can get the trailer for $300 or $400 and maybe knock $50 off if you hit the right sale. I found out the hard way!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks NKC . . . Harbor Freight 4X8 Foldable . . . usually around $300 . . . coupon which is available regularly brings it down to $249 . . . your 11.5 will be PERFECT on the trailer . . . congrats on the 11.5 . . . have fun!

bbryder17 - 9 years ago

Awesome video Gary!

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks . . . glad you enjoyed it

Bill Jones - 9 years ago

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

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

glad I could help BJ . . . thanks

yolanda hudson - 9 years ago

It's so pretty. Love it.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

thanks yo . . . appreciate your comment

Mr. Videoman - 9 years ago

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.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

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

david velazquez - 9 years ago

im sold, getting one for my lure 13.5. good job.

Gary Bromberger - 9 years ago

hey david, I'd love to see a photo of your lure 13.5 . . . don't forget, paint your plywood the most dominant color on your lure . . . I used 2 coats of primer followed by 2 coats of finish enamel . . . top-side and under-side . . . it ended up being slick and "rock-hard" . . . well worth the effort:)

Charlie Zellner - 10 years ago

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!!!

Gary Bromberger - 10 years ago

thanks for the positive comment Charlie . . . much appreciated