what do you tow with your E? [Archive] - Honda Element Owners Club Forum

: what do you tow with your E?


puffy
06-26-2007, 03:16 PM
I hope no one is towing cars or big boats on theirs...

scorsone
06-27-2007, 07:34 AM
I have been towing a HF 4x8 red trailer for a couple of years now and it's easy to forget that it's back their. I usually have a riding mower on it or an assortment of things to haul to our storage unit. I have also made a few highway trips with it and have had no problems.

I just bought a 16' Marquis Riviera boat. It is a 1979 beauty, I will post pictures later. The weight is probably around 2500# or so. I just picked it up in the Pigeon Forge TN area on Monday and made it up I-75 through the TN/KY hills without any problems. There were a few hills where I had to take it down into third because I lost momentum behind the slower big rigs. Breaking was fine; at no point did I feel uneasy about the trailer behind me. I did leave extra, extra room for breaking though and did not break the speed limits while driving. Uphill starts with the manual tranny just require a little more revs and a really quick/smooth clutch engagement.

ElementAWD
06-27-2007, 07:52 AM
I hope to tow me motorsickle with it! Need to buy me an utility trailer first!

closer9
06-27-2007, 08:02 AM
I've been pulling around my 5'x10' utility trailer, and may one of these days pull my boat...

It does a pretty good job, however this is the first time I've ever pulled anything with a unibody. You hear ever little noise that drawbar/receiver combo makes...

bh241
06-27-2007, 08:20 AM
I tow a 5x8 utility trailer. We use it to haul about anything and everything. Never had any trouble with pulling it - other than taking a hit with the gas mileage. :rolleyes:

I agree with closer9 about hearing every little sound. More so if the trailer is empty.

But bottom line, the E hauls the trailer fine. No problem.

TCW
06-28-2007, 09:04 AM
My bikes, the Ridgeline tows the bigger stuff:

hopewellz
06-28-2007, 09:53 PM
I tow 2 Honda CT90's. I also have a single rail hitch carrier when I only need one bike.

outofd
06-28-2007, 11:34 PM
Tow a Fleetwood Element popup. Has trailer brakes, no problems so far. see avatar. best wishes, Bill Snoqualmie WA See: http://www.pbase.com/webpi/april07camping

Z-ELEMENT
07-02-2007, 08:44 PM
i tow a 5x8 utility trailer with my motorcycle on back. the element tows well with it. no problems pulling up hills.

Z-ELEMENT
07-02-2007, 08:51 PM
I hope to tow me motorsickle with it! Need to buy me an utility trailer first!
i bought mine at lowes.

e-klectic
07-03-2007, 10:44 PM
Tow a Fleetwood Element popup. Has trailer brakes, no problems so far. see avatar. best wishes, Bill Snoqualmie WA See: http://www.pbase.com/webpi/april07camping

I REALLY want to find one of those. Haven't had luck here in Texas!

outofd
07-03-2007, 11:22 PM
The popup is a great addition to the element. Next week we go over the mountain to Yakama Wa, will check out air conditioner and all the local wineries. Then off to Idaho, Utah, Nv and Calif. Home in time to start off school (part time school bus driver). The element tows well and holds its own on those steep grades. Will post pictures.
Best wishes on your search. There is a fleetwood dealer in atlanta that is known for great pricing. Go to fleetwood site check for dealers, they are the only one in Atlanta and name starts with a P...... They were 1000 to 1500 below my dealer but just too far from Wa.

Farther
07-04-2007, 04:43 PM
We towed a light weight fiberglass cargo trailer across the US. Rarely knew it was there.

putput64
07-04-2007, 05:56 PM
Just got back fom my Mom's cottage had to pull the jet ski back from the boat launch. But mostly I tow a 4X8 trailer I modified to hold our kayaks on top and camping gear on the deck.

EOC4ME
07-04-2007, 06:00 PM
Here's what's going to HUMBOLDT REDWOODS STATE PARK
in Sept!
CDI'ER out . . . :cool:

dancetiludrop
07-04-2007, 07:45 PM
We towed this small trailer all the way to Vegas and back :D

Had not troubles at all!

kcbrooksider
07-05-2007, 08:37 AM
We tow a trailer with our two Yamaha Vino 125 scooters. I got the utility trailer at Tractor Supply. I made modifications and added customized wheel chocks to hold the bikes securely.

I agree with closer9 that towing with a unibody vehicle is a lot noisier than with a body on frame vehicle.

wakblak
07-14-2007, 01:03 AM
How much does that thing weigh?

Tow a Fleetwood Element popup. Has trailer brakes, no problems so far. see avatar. best wishes, Bill Snoqualmie WA See: http://www.pbase.com/webpi/april07camping

Nitz
07-15-2007, 01:50 AM
So many different posts to choose from to ask this question but this is the most recent so I will give it a chance and hope IRV doesn't yell at me for not using the search....I have the hidden hitch 1 1/4 hitch. I am looking to buy a 4x8 utility trailer and using it as a mule for my trips to Home Depot (drywal, landscaping, etc.) Can I pull this trailer with this hitch? Am I correct in assuming that the 2 inch hitch can pull more although the amount the 1 1/4 inch hitch can pull already surpasses the max allowed by the Element? Any advice would be appreciated, I have never had ANY experience pulling a trailer.

EXwSCnose
07-15-2007, 02:27 AM
So many different posts to choose from to ask this question but this is the most recent so I will give it a chance and hope IRV doesn't yell at me for not using the search....I have the hidden hitch 1 1/4 hitch. I am looking to buy a 4x8 utility trailer and using it as a mule for my trips to Home Depot (drywal, landscaping, etc.) Can I pull this trailer with this hitch? Am I correct in assuming that the 2 inch hitch can pull more although the amount the 1 1/4 inch hitch can pull already surpasses the max allowed by the Element? Any advice would be appreciated, I have never had ANY experience pulling a trailer.

...assumption correct!!

Nitz
07-15-2007, 11:45 AM
Thanks for the quick response!

dancetiludrop
07-15-2007, 01:32 PM
I have the 1 1/4 hidden hitch on my E too, and mines the straight bar (not the "U" shaped hitch)....pulled a trailer all the way to Las Vegas and back. Didn't have any troubles with pulling it. I've also pulled a 4x8 trailer with it for local stuff.

IMO...you shouldn't have any issues with pulling a 4x8 trailer as long as you don't load it full of bricks! :razz:

nathan
07-16-2007, 03:24 PM
I towed a 4x8 u-haul trailer loaded down very full from Chicago to Washington DC last month. The Element was also packed tight. Everyone was impressed with how much can fit in the Element and a well-packed U-Haul trailer.

Keeping the speed around 65mph, the Element had no problems whatsoever. I was worried that it was not going to be so smooth, but by the time I was going through Pennsylvania I started to get a little over-confident and sped up and was passing cars going uphill with the AC full-on -the Element didn't like that, so I backed down to about 60-65mph and everything was fine. With the load as large as this one was the only other issue was stopping distance. I'll never cut in front of a semi again (not that I made a habit of it before).

The biggest surprise was the fuel millage. I averaged 24.6mpg for the thousand mile trip packed down waaay past capacity. That is just about my normal mpg. I'll credit this to driving only 60-65mph on the highway. I wonder what my mpg doing 60-65mph on the highway would be without all the weight?

I took a couple pics as well...

vandstra
07-16-2007, 07:41 PM
I tow a 4 X 8 utility trailer that empty weighs about 300 lbs. The most weight I have put on it is my lawn tractor which weighs about 500 lbs. I am careful to stay below the 1500 lb tow rating as I don't want to fry my transmission. I wish the Element towed more, but that is for another forum/post.

Wilyumm
07-16-2007, 10:30 PM
I tow my 5x8 trailer with my lanmowers or a load for the landfill.

DLC
07-19-2007, 09:50 PM
Here is mine loaded down this past week while on vacation

http://www.supratrucks.com/pictures/Element/Claytor%20019small.jpg

bh241
08-12-2007, 09:17 AM
It's just a little boat...

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/bh241/EOC/the-element-that-could_large.jpg

ron"E"boy
08-12-2007, 09:23 AM
It's just a little boat...

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/bh241/EOC/the-element-that-could_large.jpg

Did u have the dogs in the back too? That would have put u to the limit.:twisted:

goosler
08-12-2007, 09:45 AM
thats a great picture......hahaha, i dont think id pull that trailer with anything....it doesnt look very stable..........

Jet
08-12-2007, 11:30 AM
even if you get that thing rolling, you would never be able to stop it.

(until Impact) :D

daninthout
09-05-2007, 10:40 AM
with the 'toaster'. Probably have 10,000 miles towing the bike. The single rail was a little squirrily, but the dual is rock stable. The single rail, however had a straight neck, which was probably a stronger mount. The 18" height requirement of the dual rail trailer is a problem, and requires a 10" rise hitch gooseneck, which is worrisome. Which is why when pulling both bikes, I defer to the Explorer (and 30% poorer gas mileage). I posted the dual rail pic in another thread.
http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?p=475640#post475640

Tim Vance
09-05-2007, 02:27 PM
We have 10 Palomino Pony PopUp tent trailer. GVW is just over 2300 lbs. It's sitting about 2000 the way we have it loaded now...
We have a class III uhaul hitch, and electric brake controller.
You can feel the weight when you start and stop, but once your on the highway it's easy to forget it's there...
Before we take it on anything longer than an 8 hour trip, or thru any (major) hills, I'll invest in a tranny cooler...

hownowcb
09-05-2007, 05:42 PM
This:

http://homepage.mac.com/hownowcb/Element/012_12_2.jpg

Tim Vance
09-05-2007, 08:23 PM
Colin, when are you going to haul that here, so we can go sailing?

EXwSCnose
09-05-2007, 10:49 PM
This:


Here too, - another cat-hauler....

What year is yours, the sail number puts it into the early eighties.

Mine is a 1978, that has undergone a full refurb before I got my grimy little paws on it last year...

hownowcb
09-06-2007, 12:44 AM
Good eye, EXwSCnose! It's an '84, which I've had since '94. Mine too, has gone through some serious upgrading, though at my own expense, over the years.

One of these days, Tim Vance...one of these days! :rolleyes:

EXwSCnose
09-06-2007, 01:03 AM
Good eye, EXwSCnose! It's an '84, which I've had since '94. Mine too, has gone through some serious upgrading, though at my own expense, over the years.

One of these days, Tim Vance...one of these days! :rolleyes:

I was lucky, I stumbled into mine on eBay. Boat and trailer ready to sail for $450.--, -- a steal. I had it repainted and the graphics added, built my own beach wheels... I envy your easy beach launch, this is impossible here in Long Beach, CA...

P.S. I saw an identically colored main sail go through eBay a few days ago with the number 79903....

eric hughes
09-06-2007, 08:12 AM
Well Im new to the Element but I have towed my West Wight Poter sailboat.
The boat trailer and motor are listed at factory as a total of 900 lbs. I use this small (pocket yacht) as a sailboat and camper when on trips. With its small cabin I can sleep on the water or truck stops / campgrounds.
The other day I towed it with the Element and it was a perfect match for each other. I also will be towing a small utility trailer and a small aluminum trailer for a kayak or a sunfish sailboat. The largest I will most likely go is my Scamp 13 foot camper. Have not pulled that yet but hear that others have with no problems. It is also listed at 900 lbs dry weight.
Eric mechanicsburg Pa

raskarle
10-07-2007, 10:20 AM
Sailing Rocket!

cerveny
10-19-2007, 09:37 AM
I'm thinking about selling my truck and getting a hitch for my E. The truck is for hauling firewood and building materials for my home renovation. I'm realizing that I'm able to get most things in the back of the E with no problem and it saves me a lot of gas (Lowe's is 30 miles away). I'm thinking about getting a utility trailer for the E, but I'm concerned about what I can tow with it.

I see that a lot of you tow anything you want. That's great! But I do have a few questions....

My dad was saying that the 1500# weight limit would be considered "rolling weight" and not actual weight of the trailer. Can anyone explain this to me please?

What is the risk of pulling a load that's too heavy?

Thanks E group.

BOXAND1
10-19-2007, 11:28 AM
http://homepage.mac.com/hownowcb/Element/012_12_2.jpg[/quote] Heres one of the most aesthetically pleasing E s' ive ever seen.its tough looking yet clean & tight as all hella. sweet !,i give it max 5 stars. hownow.

SILFACE
10-19-2007, 11:53 AM
Hi! Pulled my Ideal Classic Cargo trailer this week after having 2" hitch installed. Felt great! Will try placing skidoo in trailer next week & see how SC handles & all. Total weight with skidoo is around 1800lbs. Think I need trailer brakes?
Enjoy!

lizzurd
10-19-2007, 11:54 AM
I'm thinking about selling my truck and getting a hitch for my E. The truck is for hauling firewood and building materials for my home renovation. I'm realizing that I'm able to get most things in the back of the E with no problem and it saves me a lot of gas (Lowe's is 30 miles away). I'm thinking about getting a utility trailer for the E, but I'm concerned about what I can tow with it.

I see that a lot of you tow anything you want. That's great! But I do have a few questions....

My dad was saying that the 1500# weight limit would be considered "rolling weight" and not actual weight of the trailer. Can anyone explain this to me please?

What is the risk of pulling a load that's too heavy?

Thanks E group.


As per the owner's manual....1500 lb is the total weight of the loaded trailer.

Flashbox
10-19-2007, 11:58 AM
Here is a pic of my recent haul. The E handled beautifully!

Rocket Dog
10-19-2007, 04:36 PM
Cheap-a** little red trailer from Harbor Freight.

40701

PropNut
12-06-2007, 09:13 PM
Hi! Pulled my Ideal Classic Cargo trailer this week after having 2" hitch installed. Felt great! Will try placing skidoo in trailer next week & see how SC handles & all. Total weight with skidoo is around 1800lbs. Think I need trailer brakes?
Enjoy!

What is the size of your trailer? I have a 6x12 that I plan on towing, the gross weight of the trailer is 1100lbs and I only use it to haul R/C Airplanes with. I doubt that the total weight loaded is over 1200lbs. But I do wonder about the wind resistance, I should have purchased a V-Nose.


New 08 EX

Genom
12-06-2007, 09:23 PM
Cheap-a** little red trailer from Harbor Freight.

I have a similar trailer that I recently picked up off Craigslist for $70.:) After I got it home, I bolted the folding bed together and removed the dolly wheels with a right angle grinder. I then welded up some side rails (the metal I used is actually old bed frames). You can see I ran out of black paint by the time I got to the tongue. Its light enough that I forget its behind me.

Alaskan_Toaster
12-06-2007, 10:29 PM
4x8 cheapie reinforced with 2000lb springs and larger tires. Towed 1500lbs with it behind my E from GA to AK. Here's a photo fully loaded (during a required stop):

Rocket Dog
12-07-2007, 10:06 AM
I have a similar trailer that I recently picked up off Craigslist for $70.:) After I got it home, I bolted the folding bed together and removed the dolly wheels with a right angle grinder. I then welded up some side rails (the metal I used is actually old bed frames). You can see I ran out of black paint by the time I got to the tongue. Its light enough that I forget its behind me.

I'm planning a major modification of the trailer. I'm going to have the frame (which is bolted together now) welded. Weld 2x4 stake pockets to the outside of the rails (the stock stake bed holes are smaller than 2x4). Adding a second sheet of pressure-treated plywood to the bed. Replace the plastic PVC piping that I use to house the electrical wiring with metal conduit. Adding a spare tire carrier and a wheeled dolly to the front tongue bracket.

The next mod will be a beefier axle and larger diameter tires. It might have been less expensive, ultimately, to have bought a larger trailer but the local landfill here charges if you tow anything larger than 4x8.


EDIT: Found out the local Chesapeake Center for Science and Technology, which teaches welding classes to high school students, will do all the welding I need for a donation to the school for supplies. Sweet.

Farther
12-07-2007, 01:02 PM
GA to AK. Here's a photo fully loaded (during a required stop):

Could that be the Starbucks outside of Columbus, IN?

PropNut
12-07-2007, 02:09 PM
It is certainly not the one in Anchorage.

tkobrian
12-07-2007, 02:16 PM
I like the race car bed on the roof. Even hiker chick doesn't take that much stuff on a road trip. :lol:

Genom
12-07-2007, 03:57 PM
EDIT: Found out the local Chesapeake Center for Science and Technology, which teaches welding classes to high school students, will do all the welding I need for a donation to the school for supplies. Sweet.

What a deal!:D How do you beat that?

I thought about welding my frame together but I think its pretty strong the way its all bolted together. I even eliminated the hinges on mine. Besides, the side rails I welded on tie the whole thing together.

Calco
04-02-2008, 02:09 AM
I pull a Tracker 175 Pro team Bass Boat with a 70HP Outboard, back and forth to the Ozarks, the E pulls fine, but its 120 miles from my house in the city to our place at the lake, Mostly highway, and at 75 MPH I averageabout 17 MPG

hopewellz
04-04-2008, 10:43 PM
Mostly motorcycles, but have been known to tow other things. Most I have towed is 2000lbs.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2367/2251677980_22e0fd6e87_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2383/2181091067_cb15c1e04b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1391/762391876_488278f980.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3118/2386246973_5ef5d59034.jpg

Sorry for the poor quality pics, they are all from my camera phone.

Foxy's mom
04-05-2008, 11:30 AM
This is what we'd LIKE TO tow with our E... Someday. :)

off the grid
04-05-2008, 12:08 PM
I have made a deposit on the Sylvan Sport Go trailer. A new design in RV pop up type trailers. It doubles as a gear/toy hauler and weights in at only 700 lbs. I am hoping to take delivery within the next 30 days just in time for a camping trip to Joshua Tree National Monument. http://www.sylvansport.com

outofd
04-05-2008, 02:51 PM
WOW! Outstanding, will go very well with your element, Best wishes.

hopewellz
04-05-2008, 03:02 PM
I have made a deposit on the Sylvan Sport Go trailer. A new design in RV pop up type trailers. It doubles as a gear/toy hauler and weights in at only 700 lbs. I am hoping to take delivery within the next 30 days just in time for a camping trip to Joshua Tree National Monument. http://www.sylvansport.com


I have had my eye on those for awhile. Any idea on what the actual price is? I see that the deposit is $1000, but what is the full cost? It would make the perfect trailer for me and my motorcycles.

hopewellz
04-05-2008, 03:38 PM
I have made a deposit on the Sylvan Sport Go trailer. A new design in RV pop up type trailers. It doubles as a gear/toy hauler and weights in at only 700 lbs. I am hoping to take delivery within the next 30 days just in time for a camping trip to Joshua Tree National Monument. http://www.sylvansport.com

Just realized that the unit costs $6500 + shipping.

HO-LEE CRAP.

Thats insane. I hope no one is really paying that much for a utility trailer and a kelty tent.

Foxy's mom
04-05-2008, 06:17 PM
We've looked at these http://www.tab-rv.com/. The lightest dry wt is 1520#. We've been thinking of them for our Toyota Truck to pull, but the E might be able to handle it if you packed light. :) On their photo gallery, they show a VW Bug pulling one. The T@b's don't come with a bathroom, but you can get a porta-potty.

hiker chick
04-05-2008, 07:13 PM
This is what we'd LIKE TO tow with our E... Someday. :)

I recommend painting it to match your E.

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37536

:)

DOGBOX
04-06-2008, 10:06 PM
We've looked at these http://www.tab-rv.com/. The lightest dry wt is 1520#. We've been thinking of them for our Toyota Truck to pull, but the E might be able to handle it if you packed light. :) On their photo gallery, they show a VW Bug pulling one. The T@b's don't come with a bathroom, but you can get a porta-potty.

I have spent the last several MONTHS researching a number of different camping trailers for my E. Your dry weight is not going to include the weight of propane tank and propane (50 lbs), a battery (50 lbs), spare tires, electric brakes, air conditioners, heaters, or any other "options"--many of which are not optional at all, but needed to run the unit. You also have to reduce your E's meager interior vehicle cargo weight (675 lbs max) by your hitch weight, which would be at least 150-200 lbs with a Tab (safe hitch weight should be 10-15% of trailer weight--E's maximum hitch weight is 150 lbs). So "packing light" in the trailer doesn't necessarily mean you can stuff it all in the car instead--as you will find precious little available weight there also.

After all my research and arithmetic computation, I found that any trailer over 1100 lbs dry weight would likely exceed the Element's stated cargo limits by the time it was actually on the road. I actually FINALLY bought my trailer just this past week--a slightly used Fleetwood Neon that I found on Craig's list. The trailer is pretty simplistic and doesn't offer many of the nice features of larger units, such as the Cobalt which I would have loved to have. But I know I will not exceed my vehicle limits--that alone is worth a lot of peace of mind to me. Dry weight of the Neon is 950 lbs. I have added a buddy heater, back and side awnings, battery, generator, and propane tank to run the heater, a gas grill, and possibly a propane "porch" lantern. With the roof rack, bike, and cargo, I expect it will easily weigh 1300 lbs when I start heading down the road. And that is a SMALL trailer with no galley.

I'm just glad the shopping is over, and I can finally start enjoying my trailer--as soon as the dealer finishes installing the accessories.

outofd
04-06-2008, 10:39 PM
Having to trade my element for a ridgeline because I felt that I was abusing my element when I towed my cobalt trailer. Dogbox's research is right on when it comes to real weight when you put on the basics. I would leave out my table, leave wife and puppies at home, not buy food or ice until I got to my destination, which was a pain and a lot more expensive. Congrat's to dogbox, you made a great selection for worry free towing and camping!!!!! WOOT!!! best wishes, Bill, P.S. Looked at tab, at 6 ft I could not stand straight up inside which would have been interesting on a rainy outing.

DOGBOX
04-06-2008, 11:30 PM
Having to trade my element for a ridgeline because I felt that I was abusing my element when I towed my cobalt trailer. Dogbox's research is right on when it comes to real weight when you put on the basics. I would leave out my table, leave wife and puppies at home, not buy food or ice until I got to my destination, which was a pain and a lot more expensive. Congrat's to dogbox, you made a great selection for worry free towing and camping!!!!! WOOT!!! best wishes, Bill, P.S. Looked at tab, at 6 ft I could not stand straight up inside which would have been interesting on a rainy outing.

Case in point--the Fleetwood Cobalt (NICE trailer) is 1235 dry weight. When I was buying one at the dealer, I found out the unit really weighed 1440 lbs--out the door. That is WITHOUT any of my stuff in it yet (sleeping bags, food, kitchen, and all the takealongs). As I mostly dry camp and need a minimum 2000 watt portable generator (weight 46 lbs for a Honda e2000)--I could virtually add nothing at all to the trailer without going over the Element's tow limit. I was very disappointed to have to walk away from the Cobalt.

DOGBOX
04-06-2008, 11:35 PM
Man OutD, that was a drag...having to trade your E for a Ridgeline!!!! Just kiddin'--nice truck and it will have no trouble at all hauling that fly of a popup. Time to move up to an Evolution!

vichmd
09-23-2008, 09:29 PM
Total weight pulled: 2400? lbs.
Total distance: 10 miles
Max speed: 45 mph
I knew I was exceeding the max towing capacity so I took it slowly and only for a short trip. For the most part, the E handled the load easily, but struggled significantly to get up a steep hill. At the top of the hill I had to stop at a stop sign and had to floor the gas pedal to get it moving again. Again, I know this wasn't the best thing to do for my E, but it was a one-time thing. My advice for anybody who absolutely must tow above the capacity is to keep the speed down and watch out for those hills (whether you're driving up them or down them).

scorsone
09-24-2008, 06:50 AM
that's one great looking bug! I have always been a big fan of the original VW.

USAFRET
09-24-2008, 10:43 AM
that's one great looking bug! I have always been a big fan of the original VW.

I agree, great looking bug. I have had 4 of them over the years. The first was a 61 I bought new in Germany for $1195.
Great cars. Have had 2 of the new beetles too. But nothing brings a smile to my face as when I see my SOP ELEMENT!
u

Twilightzero
09-24-2008, 10:44 AM
My grill :D

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=47267

bh241
09-24-2008, 10:46 AM
and a mighty fine grill it is. :D

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/bh241/EOC/ohio/ohio_0018.jpg

off the grid
09-25-2008, 12:45 PM
We tow our two kayaks atop a Sylvansport Go. So much easier loading instead of our old roof top system. This camper is absolutely fabulous and at #800 it's extremely light.

dtwalters
09-28-2008, 06:57 AM
We've looked at these http://www.tab-rv.com/.

We love ours!

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/mm100/dtwalters/TAB.jpg

EXwSCnose
09-28-2008, 10:04 AM
We love ours!

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/mm100/dtwalters/TAB.jpg

What a cool shot!! The T@B is worth more than the tow vehicle... :-)

Sweet set-up!!!

OTG
10-06-2008, 11:42 AM
and a mighty fine grill it is. :D



Love it! Where did you get it!?

I agree, great looking bug. I have had 4 of them over the years. The first was a 61 I bought new in Germany for $1195.
Great cars. Have had 2 of the new beetles too. But nothing brings a smile to my face as when I see my SOP ELEMENT!
u

We had a 69 Transporter and we're looking for a splitty. There will always be a piece of my heart for aircooleds. My parents are the same way. :D

Bengoshi-San
10-06-2008, 11:45 AM
I only tow friends and family in my car.

I wish I had a reason to tow something, I've been wanting to see what this thing can handle. From what I have heard 750lbs is fine, anything more and it might start giving the transmission some problems in the long-run.

Twilightzero
10-07-2008, 09:24 AM
Love it! Where did you get it!?

Grill is from Menards, basket & grill carrier (and you can get the grill too) are from http://www.chargriller.com/ :D

Jojo
10-07-2008, 09:51 AM
Grill is from Menards, basket & grill carrier (and you can get the grill too) are from http://www.chargriller.com/ :D

Magnet is from TEXAS!:D

Twilightzero
10-07-2008, 10:08 AM
Magnet is from TEXAS!:D

And is still there too :razz:

burmacheck
01-02-2009, 11:58 AM
We tow a 2005 13 foot scamp travel trailer. They are fiberglass, so it is every light and plenty for my husband and me. It tows like an absolute dream and my nephews love how tiny it is. There is a picture of it in my profile's album. Can't get the image to upload here. Go figure!

kristen

MockSwede
01-02-2009, 03:15 PM
NOW, watch out for the real EOC welcome committee!:D

We tow a 2005 13 foot scamp travel trailer. They are fiberglass, so it is every light and plenty for my husband and me. It tows like an absolute dream and my nephews love how tiny it is. There is a picture of it in my profile's album. Can't get the image to upload here. Go figure!

kristen

MockSwede
01-02-2009, 03:20 PM
My thoughts exactly!

that's one great looking bug!

stargazer
01-07-2009, 12:44 AM
We tow a 2005 13 foot scamp travel trailer. They are fiberglass, so it is every light and plenty for my husband and me. It tows like an absolute dream and my nephews love how tiny it is. There is a picture of it in my profile's album. Can't get the image to upload here. Go figure!

kristen

Welcome! From another 13' Scamp owner!

http://www.hustonfamily.com/scamp/viking/scamp1.jpg

BobMc
01-20-2009, 02:10 PM
We love ours!

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/mm100/dtwalters/TAB.jpg

How has this worked out for you?...I looked at these but was concerned because they are so close to the maximum tow capacity.

stargazer
02-22-2009, 10:48 AM
Since all my URL links appear to be broken ... I'll post a little compilation of Scamp photos

I looked for over a year to find a reasonably price used Scamp, most often missing out as they are in very high demand ... finally finding another one on Craigslist, scrutinizing very low res photos, and asking questions of the owner... I agreed to pay the asking $2000 and drove 1260 miles round trip to pick up this beautiful 1976 13 foot Scamp. It had been fairly nicely restored and was pretty well stripped in terms of accessories... probably pretty close to it's listed 900 lb dry weight. I added to it a 5,000 btu window AC unit (which can be powered by a Honda EU2000 while boondocked!)... a 20 lb Dometic awning... a $30 microwave, and a 14" LCD tv.

Viking Lake State Park in southwestern Iowa
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic2.jpg

Accomodations
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic3.jpg
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic10.jpg

My home made window AC setup (wife isn't much of an outdoors person)
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic11.jpg

The ultimate Scamp towing vehicle
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic5.jpg

Watching for satellites at Ponca State Park in northeastern Nebraska
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic7.jpg

Setup among the spruce in the Black Hills
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic8.jpg

Parting with star gazing in the Nebraska sand hills, darkest skies in the country
http://www.hustonfamily.com/pic9.jpg

Many more photos here:
http://www.hustonfamily.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=168646

Alaskan_Toaster
02-22-2009, 08:10 PM
This is what I towed from GA to AK (all 1500lbs worth).....:rolleyes::smile::smile:

Total miles: 6300; toddler (grandson) inside and his bed on top.
Worst MPG: 17.1; best 22.3.

Arriving in AK with my E and family: Priceless

Here's a link to my review:

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=39646&highlight=10000+mile

and pix from the trip:
http://s220.photobucket.com/albums/dd208/knighthawk2000ak/Alaska%20Trip/

Somuchtwosay
04-11-2009, 11:29 AM
Just towed my first trailer with the E. I had to rent a large post hole digger to plant some trees at my place. I also had a lawn aerator and 5 large jugs of sand to hold it down, they are in the car. The E did a great job, although it wasn't too much weight.

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j88/SoMuchTwoSay/Element003.jpg
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j88/SoMuchTwoSay/Element002.jpg

Bowhawg
04-12-2009, 06:04 PM
I tow a 14ft V bottom lund with a 25hp tiller steer motor. It tows really well. I would like a tab.

DanTheMan102288
04-12-2009, 06:20 PM
Ahhh I just love all the teardrop trailers/Camping pictures, now I want to start camping :D

rgbiv5
08-31-2009, 08:49 PM
The 15.5' boat could be from the early to mid-sixties. The outboard is a "55 Mercury Mark 5 that still rips. Whole she-bang under 500lbs., less when sailing with the gunter show being rigged.

Robel
10-15-2009, 10:39 PM
I tow a sandwich camper. But the big thing 2 jet ski but like a train.

Wolfmoms
11-04-2009, 11:51 PM
I tow a 1947 KIT homebuilt. Just took delivery on her Oct 1 and already have done a bit of redecorating!! We're going out to Roosevelt Lake this weekend and went to the Superstitiions two weeks ago. Now that it's cooled down here in the desert ... it's camping time in Arizona!!

scorsone
11-05-2009, 06:32 AM
Great looking teardrop! Welcome to the club. Can't wait to see some pictures and read the stories of you adventures with the E.

2006ElementDiver
12-27-2009, 07:44 PM
http://i987.photobucket.com/albums/ae357/ElementCamper/PC110850.jpg

elementbryon
12-27-2009, 08:36 PM
Odd I never saw this thread before. :?

Here is our 12' Sidekick when we picked her up last spring.
http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=68578&stc=1&d=1241402810

scorsone
12-28-2009, 07:50 AM
Welcome to the club '06 Element good looking T@B. Nice trailer Bryon, looks like it could be quite roomy.

leftfield6
12-28-2009, 07:25 PM
Today I towed a 5x8 utility trailer loaded up with my Kawasaki Ninja 250. Towed it very nicely.

stargazer
12-29-2009, 03:47 PM
The 1976 13' Scamp travel trailer

900 lbs dry/100 lbs at the tongue, added 8,000 BTU window AC, 14" LCD, portable satellite dish all powered by a Honda 2000EU generator ... we're living in the lap of luxury

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2693/145/59/570213440/n570213440_1661605_7124647.jpg

EASTCOASTELEMENT
08-12-2010, 08:01 PM
A 4 x 8 Snowbear trailer and 2 racing mowers 4 people and all the racing grear!!

sacndogy
12-04-2010, 04:13 AM
element at camp

waltross
12-05-2010, 06:06 PM
Here's my bike carrier....

grantizzle
12-05-2010, 07:23 PM
the day i bought her. I rode the KLR to eugene, OR to buy the element. Had the PO drive to a uhaul place so i could have the hitch installed so i could get the KLR home.


http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs682.snc4/62237_436733876897_508051897_5896933_1616578_n.jpg

davidinsarasota
12-23-2010, 03:42 AM
Does the KLR fit inside the E?

grantizzle
12-23-2010, 03:44 AM
Does the KLR fit inside the E?

No.. way too tall. It world with the tires, fairing, and forks off.

davidinsarasota
12-23-2010, 05:19 AM
Sounds like you got it figgered out, nice bike btw.

TangoBill
12-23-2010, 06:32 AM
We have an aluminum ATV trailer that we use to haul our kayaks, bales of hay for the horses, take our mower to the shop, etc. It works out quite well for us.

grantizzle
12-23-2010, 04:07 PM
Sounds like you got it figgered out, nice bike btw.

thanks. lots of time and money went into that bike.

buttermilk
12-24-2010, 06:44 AM
I tow a boat and a camper. We just got the popup a few months ago. I think it might go a little over 1500 lbs when packed and ready to go, but it still tows and stops ok.

http://i753.photobucket.com/albums/xx177/mccoysphotos/hitched.jpg

http://i753.photobucket.com/albums/xx177/mccoysphotos/camper.jpg

Billboard
02-17-2011, 12:05 PM
jetski

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d145/billshouse/jet4.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d145/billshouse/jet6.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d145/billshouse/elements3.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d145/billshouse/elements.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d145/billshouse/DSC_0552.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d145/billshouse/elements2.jpg

John Gaquin
02-19-2011, 11:11 AM
I tow a Flagstaff pop-up, looks to be just like buttermilk's. I haven't weighed it yet, but I estimate it's right around 1500#. After I bought it, I swapped axels and installed electric brakes, with a Prodigy controller by my left knee. It tows nicely and stops readily. The only inconvenience (minor) is vizibility. The a/c unit blocks the direct rear view, which wouldn't be all that great anyway due to trailer height. Also, the trailer is somewhat wider than the E, so clip-on side mirrors are necessary. All in all, we're very pleased.

scorsone
02-19-2011, 01:15 PM
Very nice rigs to the new comers on the what do you tow thread.

I like that pop up. Great size.

AustinJ
02-21-2011, 12:28 PM
Anyone out their got a Livin Lite Quicksilver Popup camper?

http://www.livinlite.com/8.0-overview.php

Ive been looking at the Quicksilver 8.0 for a while. Its basically a stripped down popup... 1 queen bed, 1 twin, a table and chairs... and only 850 lbs.

So far, I havent had an extra 7k to spend :-(

hepcat
03-16-2011, 01:24 PM
Here's my '03 Element towing my '03 Scamp 16'. This is the side dinette model Scamp that is very conservatively equipped. It has a small fridge, stove, sink, beds and porta-potty. No A/C and no plumbing to speak of. It is very close to it's advertised weight of 1400 lbs dry.

I've towed it about 15,000 miles so far with the Element and they handle and go down the road like they're on rails. It's an amazing combo. I'm glad to see a couple of other 13' Scamp owners here as well!

This is the fifth Scamp I've had since 1980; two 13s, two 16s and one 19' fifth wheel.

The Element is equipped with a 2" Uhaul receiver and a Prodigy brake controller. I pried the little coin gizmo (or whatever the h*ll it was) out of the bottom left side of the dash, and used that area for the Prodigy; a perfect fit.

I also tow an Aluma utility trailer and haul my 18hp Kubota tractor on it regularly, but unfortunately I don't have any photos of that setup to show.

Roger

reno_bk
03-16-2011, 03:54 PM
I absolutely LOVE the Scamps! We have a small Starcraft popup trailer that we tow with the element, but I would love to find a good deal on a Scamp one day. They seem like a perfect size for us and are still within the E's modest towing limits.
http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=649&pictureid=3333

hepcat
03-16-2011, 08:07 PM
I absolutely LOVE the Scamps! We have a small Starcraft popup trailer that we tow with the element, but I would love to find a good deal on a Scamp one day. They seem like a perfect size for us and are still within the E's modest towing limits.
http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=649&pictureid=3333

I drove from Iowa to eastern Ohio to pick this one up. Be prepared to drive somewhere when you find the trailer you want. They usually sell in less than 48 hours after they hit the market, and most often for the asking price. The market has softened a little in the past couple of years, but good trailers still sell fast.

I wouldn't try to tow any other 16' fiberglass trailer with the Element; they're all too heavy. I had an '02 Scamp Deluxe 16' with an oak interior and all the options. It weighed in close to 3,000 lbs; twice what the Element can handle.

If you haven't already, check out http://www.fiberglassrv.com. If there's a fiberglass trailer for sale in the U.S. or Canada, you'll find it there.

Roger

bruppert
03-16-2011, 09:56 PM
Two 16' canoes on my 5x8 trailer. On the deck below is fork mounts for 5 bicycles and then usually toss on two giant Rubbermaid totes with camping gear. Not to mention the lumberyard and rental yard runs without the canoes!

ApriliaGuy
04-05-2011, 08:41 AM
I tow all kinds of stuff:


Here is a chicken coop.

LIASD12
04-10-2011, 08:17 AM
I have been looking at buying a 13' Scamp which have an advertised towing wt of between 900-1000 (I would imagine empty) and own a 2011 4WD EX.
I see some are towing the 16' Scamp with no issues.
Anyone have any sugggestions or comments around towing capacity for the EX?

USAFRET
04-10-2011, 12:15 PM
I have been looking at buying a 13' Scamp which have an advertised towing wt of between 900-1000 (I would imagine empty) and own a 2011 4WD EX.
I see some are towing the 16' Scamp with no issues.
Anyone have any sugggestions or comments around towing capacity for the EX?

I don't know about the 16ft one but I sure would tow a 13ft one and am all set up to do so in case I find one. have been looking for a year or so but most are a ways away from me. Thought I had one on Craigs list but it was a scam, big time.
u

hepcat
04-13-2011, 02:42 PM
I have been looking at buying a 13' Scamp which have an advertised towing wt of between 900-1000 (I would imagine empty) and own a 2011 4WD EX.
I see some are towing the 16' Scamp with no issues.
Anyone have any sugggestions or comments around towing capacity for the EX?

I'm the guy towing the 16' Scamp. MY Scamp is very stock... the only options it has over the stock stripper model is a small refrigerator. It weighs about 1400 lbs dry, and I try to load it very lightly. It is right at the top of the tow rating for the Element. That said, it tows well, and I've towed it about 8,000 miles so far. I've towed my little cargo trailer and tractor about 6,000 miles too, and it's slightly heavier than the Scamp. You can feel the weight starting though. You need to know that I also have electric brakes and a Prodigy brake controller and I have years of towing experience with a variety of tow vehicles and trailers.

Good luck!

ApriliaGuy
04-19-2011, 10:52 AM
swingsets too:

(its not sagging in the rear as much as it looks in the pic)

Dawn66
04-23-2011, 09:59 AM
Hitched for stuff

ApriliaGuy
05-03-2011, 07:06 AM
another chicken coop....
http://www.hunterdonmill.com/images/element/elementcoopbig.JPG


The little donkE has been working pretty hard lately. Much easier to use it and the "peanut" trailer than the big Dodge Dually and a 2-' deck over trailer for some of my jobs. 22mpg is way better than 6mpg too.

LIASD12
06-08-2011, 07:04 PM
Any one towing a 13" Scamp with their AW drive Element?

ApriliaGuy
06-09-2011, 12:24 PM
Any one towing a 13" Scamp with their AW drive Element?

not anymore....sold it a few years ago:

http://www.hunterdonmill.com/images/scampande_small.JPG

Hondamade4dogs
06-17-2011, 11:14 AM
A goat and a cow, I have pulled behind the element.

Spotman
06-17-2011, 12:29 PM
A goat and a cow, I have pulled behind the element.

:lol::lol::lol:
Hope you drove slow not to drag them.:lol::lol:

cyclotour
09-27-2011, 11:07 PM
I tow an Aliner. The E hardly knows it is there although the rear end of my 2009 seems softer than the 2003. I just returned from a camping trip, towed the camper 140 miles each way, up and down hills. Mileage was 22mpg. I was curious about the actual tongue weight, listed as 150#. After years of wondering I finally weighed it, 280#! I also measured how much the weight compressed the rear, it is 1". Now i'm thinking of ways to redistribute the weight backwards. All this concern but I have had no trouble towing. Just want to take good care of my car.

Speedy Toaster Dave
09-28-2011, 04:44 AM
5 by 8 trailer bought it to haulr dirt and junk...:twisted:

beemerchef
10-02-2011, 11:24 AM
We are just at about 1,500 lbs... FeatherLite Trailer (6.6x12) and the motorcycle with the sidecar for Spirit. It trailers good, 3rd gear on 7% uphill grades, has dropped the mileage to about 18~19 mpg, but we only trailer to get to point A to point B and stay a while then just riding or driving. The 3" lift kit installed by CCM and new struts (125K) has helped a lot. Re-aligned of course, and also one motor mount was broken, just had all 4 changed.

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/i-XfpWj2N/0/L/i-XfpWj2N-L.jpg

Off subject, but can someone direct me to the posts of the E pulling a bit to the right? It was terribly before changing the mounts, now I cannot figure it out, could have been the winds (!!!) but I think it still does a bit at acceleration. I would like to read about it. Was aligned again after the new motor mounts where installed and the tranny's mounts are fine...

Thanks!

Big Bill
11-18-2011, 09:34 AM
We are just at about 1,500 lbs... FeatherLite Trailer (6.6x12) and the motorcycle with the sidecar for Spirit. It trailers good, 3rd gear on 7% uphill grades, has dropped the mileage to about 18~19 mpg, but we only trailer to get to point A to point B and stay a while then just riding or driving. The 3" lift kit installed by CCM and new struts (125K) has helped a lot. Re-aligned of course, and also one motor mount was broken, just had all 4 changed.

Off subject, but can someone direct me to the posts of the E pulling a bit to the right? It was terribly before changing the mounts, now I cannot figure it out, could have been the winds (!!!) but I think it still does a bit at acceleration. I would like to read about it. Was aligned again after the new motor mounts where installed and the tranny's mounts are fine...

Thanks!

Oh My what a treat I have followed your travles and Adventures for years over on ADV. I belive you will love the E it is a awesome little car that still surprises me. We have two and it would will be our next car also if they are still making them.:-) Iam WRC51 on ADV.

beemerchef
11-18-2011, 10:28 AM
You know, I remember seeing your handle. Yes, I like the car... it is just that I don't care for driving!!! But... full time in the tent became a a bit "raw" I must say and using the E from point A to pint B is going to be nice... specially NOW as things are getting a bit cold. I have become softer!!!... and so has Spirit.
Stay in touch... let us know if ever near by!
Ara and Spirit

pvanduyn
12-27-2011, 09:15 AM
Hi guys! I'm new to the site. I have a 300 lb. dirt bike I'd like to hang off the back on a motorcycle carrier. It's not a trailer, but a gizmo that slips into the trailer ball receiver that the motor cycle rides on. Anyone see a problem with this. It's going to be equal to a 300 lb. tounge weight. I'm wondering if an Elemant can handle this weight.
Also, how is sleeping on the floor behind the front seats? Is there enough room for a 6' guy to sleep? Only one person sleeping. My wife doesn't go dirt bike ridding with me any more. Better that way for both of us...... Thanks for your help.

AztecRol
12-27-2011, 11:41 AM
Hi guys! I'm new to the site. I have a 300 lb. dirt bike I'd like to hang off the back on a motorcycle carrier. It's not a trailer, but a gizmo that slips into the trailer ball receiver that the motor cycle rides on. Anyone see a problem with this. It's going to be equal to a 300 lb. tounge weight. I'm wondering if an Elemant can handle this weight.

Here is the answer to this question:

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13681


Also, how is sleeping on the floor behind the front seats? Is there enough room for a 6' guy to sleep? Only one person sleeping. My wife doesn't go dirt bike ridding with me any more. Better that way for both of us...... Thanks for your help.

Here is the answer to this question, among several others:

http://www.elementownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=62469

The search function here is your friend!!

AndrewAppler
01-23-2012, 08:52 PM
I didn't see a grill on here, so I'll add to the collection. Hopefully I get this right. First time posting. Long-time silent user though. 89000

AztecRol
01-23-2012, 09:16 PM
I didn't see a grill on here, so I'll add to the collection. Hopefully I get this right. First time posting. Long-time silent user though.

You are my favorite new member on the site!!! Let me know when you tow
that thing to Nor Cal, we can have a Nor Cal BBQ meet n greet!!!!

davehg
01-24-2012, 02:11 PM
I didn't see a grill on here, so I'll add to the collection. Hopefully I get this right. First time posting. Long-time silent user though.

Love this! When people in the PNW claim they are really into BBQ'ing, I ask: Does your BBQ have 2 axles and a trailer hitch?

AndrewAppler
01-25-2012, 06:53 PM
Also "towed" a downed cedar tree that was blocking the driveway to our cabin. It pulled it like a champ!

scorsone
01-26-2012, 06:07 PM
I wish I had pictures of the walnut tree I was dragging once, lots of fun!. The E is a great weekend work horse.