Freedom Hauler (Idaho tote)

hfd45c9 wrote:
it is not considered double towing it is an extension of the fifth wheel not a "trailer". There is no additional stress on the frame as it carries the weight of the trike on the platform. If you get on their website and look at it you will see what it entails. My questions are durability/quality of the product, has anyone used it extensively and if so what can you tell me both good and bad.

You and I agree that it's an "extension", but many states don't, and =will= consider it a trailer so, you're "double-towing". As I said, some states will ignore it as it =is= a bit of a grey area, but you never know if someone p!ssed in a given LEO's Wheaties one day and then you're in trouble. Also, just because it's not attached as a trailer is, there =are= forces and weights that act on the FW. I know of at least one person that spent a ton of money on a swivel-wheel, towed it a few times, and hated the way his rig handled because he unweighted the pin so much that it chucked =and= porpoised.

Lyle

it is not considered double towing it is an extension of the fifth wheel not a "trailer". There is no additional stress on the frame as it carries the weight of the trike on the platform. If you get on their website and look at it you will see what it entails. My questions are durability/quality of the product, has anyone used it extensively and if so what can you tell me both good and bad.

hfd45c9 wrote:
We have a 2019 Van Leigh Beacon and are looking for a way to bring our trike along. I have been looking at the Freedom Hauler (formerly Idaho Tote) platform. Does anyone have any experience with this company or their product? Any info. will be helpful.
Thanks

3 main considerations:

1. Is it legal to add one where you want to go? Many states will allow a swivel-wheel tote, many states don't. Some states don't, but don't enforce it. A total mish-mosh. Basically, if you travel where double-towing is allowed, you're OK.

2. Can the FW's frame handle having it attached? Huge consideration ad you can literally bend the rear-end of the trailer if it's not beefy enough. Some people who have added hitches or totes have beefed up their FW frame all the way forward of the axle attachments to be sure they don't have frame issues.

3. Will you exceed your combined weight rating? A trike is NOT light and a large FW is not, either. Need to be sure that you're at least reasonably close to your GCWR.

IMO, either flat-out double tow on a trailer (you could run into length issues) but #1 will still apply, or get a toy hauler. FWIW, I know where there's a really nice TH for sale. PM me for details. :B

Lyle

This member, JEBar, used to have one (maybe still does) but he has not posted for quite some time so don't know if he still reads this forum. You might try sending him a private message and maybe he will respond.
Barney

No experience but first and foremost you must determine if the 5er can structurally tow the dolly. Then the install cost. And is the TV OK with the additional weight?