Boondock / off-grid option package

goducks10 wrote:
I think all brands have some form of a trailer that would meet thse needs. To make options like the Boondock package would take more changes on the line. The frames for these trailers are what they are. You get one set of springs and one set of tires on frame X. To add the option of more tank capacity you have to increase the springs, tires and possibly the frame. That would be expensive and since the frames come pre made all put together then they would have to disassemble everything and add the option items. The cost would be too much IMO. So that's why they offer a more boondock worthy trailer in other models.

Then factor in all brands offering this and all the work involved in ordering a trailer with it. The manufacture then needs to decide which models they're going to offer it on. Some trailers are maxed out as is with 30/30/30. Then add in 70/70/50 tanks. That would increase the weight by 850lbs. So now that trailer that rides on 205/75/15 tires on 3500lb axles needs 4400lb axles and 225/75/15 tires. Plus the extra support welded in for the heavier tanks. Too much work for a simple assembly line product.

So, what's the cost to upgrade from a 5k to a 5.2k, or even 6k, axle? The lighter ones would likely have D-rated tires anyway, whether 9k GVW or 11.5 GVW, like my Komfort and the 6k might still have D-rated tires. Tires a wash, axles =cheap=. Larger tank by 2-6" in any direction, with upgraded support straps. Not a lot, I'd bet. Longer, heavier shackles on flipped axles, maybe with cross-bracing. Yeah, a bit more, but still not that expensive, especially when you see guys doing a full 4" sub-frame lift for $500-700. The single most expensive option would be an installed solar system, and maybe that's just not practical for a factory install, I admit, but why not offer it?

Lyle