Suanne
Well-known member
I'm planning how I want to set up the power systems in our new ECO trailer ... and weight is an issue. <br><br>Although we were told the trailer had a dry weight of 800 lbs (as stated on the registration), the manufacturer's plate on the tongue says it's 850 lbs which I believe to be the correct weight. Our car has a maximum tow capacity of 1000 lbs. So, that gives us 150 lbs for all of our stuff. Ah, I love a challenge!<br><br>To take off some weight, I will remove the cabinet doors, replace press board covers with lumber, reduce the size of the plywood table/bed, and use a lighter table stand. Other heavy items on the "chopping block" may include a deep cell battery and propane tank. <br><br>Originally, I was hoping to use our fiberglass 20-lb propane tank that weighs about 30lbs when full. The two items in the trailer that use propane are a two-burner built-in stove, and a built-in catalytic heater. Since I typically don't use propane appliances, I don't know how long 20lbs of propane will last ... let's say for 8hrs/night use of the heater and 3hrs/day use of one of the stove's burners. Does anyone have a clue? <br><br>In lieu of a 50 lb. deep-cell battery, do you think we could get by without a 12v system in the trailer by using battery-powered items instead? I'm thinking that the electronic devices and the portable DVD player could be recharged in the car while driving. We could use tap lights and battery-powered lanterns for LED interior lighting, and a battery-powered fan too.<br><br>But, I'm concerned about our car's (starter) battery getting maxed out. While driving, items that could be connected would include (but not all at the same time) -- a smallish thermoelectric cooler, 2 cell phones, a DVD player, a lunch box oven, and a lap top computer via a converter ... plus the trailer and car's running lights. Am I asking for trouble? Is there a general rule of thumb about how much can be connected at any one time?<br><br>Any and all ideas, comments and suggestions are more than welcome.<br><br>Suanne<br>