Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => The Knowledge => Topic started by: Sigurd Mudtracker on 26 July, 2010, 09:22:25 pm

Title: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Sigurd Mudtracker on 26 July, 2010, 09:22:25 pm
When I'm not out cycling, I'm busy working in the garden.  The latter activity often involves long treks around the place with a wheelbarrow, transporting weeds, freshly made compost, prunings, etc, from one place to the other.  I already use my Y-Frame trailer for trips to the garden centre for compost, wood bark and cement (causing many a puzzled look from the cashiers when they say, "you can bring your car over to the door to load that up" and I reply "It's OK, I haven't got a car" - now they know me for the crazy guy that I am).

However, I have been thinking of ways round this and extending the role of my trailer.  Does anyone use, or know of, a source of large plastic boxes, about 800x600mm footprint, preferably robust and strong enough to be used as a garden trailer?  Carry Freedom does describe one of the boxes they recommend but it folds and therefore is probably not up to the job.

BTW, the box will be towed behind a trike so the load bed will be nice and flat when loading.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Adam on 26 July, 2010, 10:03:32 pm
On my trailer (which was a Burley kiddie trailer or something similar before I took off the seat part), I went into B&Q and bought 2 large plastic boxes about those sort of dimensions, and bolted them down onto the flat bed.  I'll try and go some pictures tomorrow.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: rogerzilla on 26 July, 2010, 10:04:48 pm
The forum software only shows the first part of the thread title.  I thought this was going to be "Boxes for large Y-Fronts"  ;D
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Wobbly John on 26 July, 2010, 10:26:57 pm
If you want deep, good quality but expensive then try this (http://uk.rs-online.com/web/search/searchBrowseAction.html?method=getProduct&R=3317250)

If it's just a shallow basket & free, that you want then a bakers bread basket is the right size - I use 2 on my big trailer (http://homepages.nildram.co.uk/~talizmar/xntrick/photos/breadtrail2.jpg)

On my latest trailer (http://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=33329.0) I used a 'Fish box - the sort that they send fish to market in.

Hope that's given you some ideas  :)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Oaky on 26 July, 2010, 10:35:34 pm
The forum software only shows the first part of the thread title.  I thought this was going to be "Boxes for large Y-Fronts"  ;D

I was just opening the thread to post the same observation.

How long until there's a "Threads that seem more interesting when the subject is truncated by SMF" thread?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: rogerzilla on 26 July, 2010, 10:46:36 pm
You mean like "I need some tips for better fuchsias" or "Does anybody else love the taste of warm shitake mushrooms"?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Oaky on 26 July, 2010, 10:56:38 pm
precisely.

BTW, The other reading I had at first when I say this particular thread subject truncated was "Boxers or larger Y-Fronts", which I thought was a fashion advice thing.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Adam on 27 July, 2010, 07:38:17 am
Moving swiftly back on topic....................


(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a239/FlyingDodo/Misc/DSCF0021.jpg)


These boxes are about 50 cm x 38 cm, but B&Q had larger ones available.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Sigurd Mudtracker on 27 July, 2010, 08:21:51 am
The comic potential of this thread had completely escaped me   ;D

Back on topic I later thought of a wheelbarrow bucket but was looking for a larger capacity than your average 100 litre wheelbarrow.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Wobbly John on 27 July, 2010, 10:56:42 am
How about a cold water loft tank?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 27 July, 2010, 11:28:58 am
This looks useful

(http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b187/vicechair/914a891a.jpg)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: rogerzilla on 27 July, 2010, 05:01:51 pm
A certain Iggy and The Stooges song comes to mind.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Sigurd Mudtracker on 27 July, 2010, 07:59:30 pm
How about a cold water loft tank?

That would be ideal.  I could "borrow" the header tank for the central heating and replace it later in the year before anyone notices it's gone missing...   ;D

Actually the box on the Filibus looks exactly what I am looking for.  Any information on much appreciated.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 05 March, 2012, 07:22:59 pm
Having just acquired a Carry Freedom Y Large, I've been considering the same question.

The 145 litre Really Useful Box looks like another reasonable option, and comes with a lid:

http://www.reallyusefulproducts.co.uk/uk/html/onlineshop/rub/b145_0litre.php

Width is tight at 620mm, but not unworkable.  There's an "extra strong" version, too, though Staples (who would otherwise be a good alternative to paying loads for shipping) don't seem to stock those.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 05 March, 2012, 08:08:22 pm
Kim, from my experience I would go for the extra strong. I don't know my plastics well enough but there is a plastic that shatters when stressed and one (polyethelene? What modern canoes are made from) that bends when stressed.

Thanks for that - bloody good point, especially if you're going to be drilling holes in it and filling it with stuff.

I'm currently weighing up the relative merits of a single large box vs a pair of smaller ones...  It's one of those things that doesn't matter until it does.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: jogler on 05 March, 2012, 08:29:57 pm


I'm currently weighing up the relative merits of a single large box vs a pair of smaller ones...

that which holds a lot will hold a little
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 05 March, 2012, 11:15:35 pm
Indeed.  And obviously a larger box will allow for things that won't fit in smaller ones.

On the other hand, a pair of smaller boxes can nest inside each other and take up less space for storage.

On the gripping hand, as barakta pointed out earlier, there's a good chance that the dismantled trailer could be stored inside an appropriately dimensioned larger box.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Biggsy on 06 March, 2012, 12:25:26 pm
Combining cycling and gardening?  Does that mean having a window box on your handlebars and doing some planting with your little trowel and fork as you ride?  I don't see why not.  Do it along a towpath to combine it with your third hobby as well: fishing.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 13 March, 2012, 05:33:39 pm
Okay, the 145litre Really Useful Box is pretty much the ideal size.

Here's the Carry Freedom Y Large trailer:
(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/trailer/IMG_3498.sized.jpg)

Carry Freedom supply a set of rubber feet for mounting arbitrary boxes.  Simply drill holes in the base of the box so that they line up with the holes in the trailer bed, preventing sideways or fore/aft movement.  I've trimmed the exposed bolt heads on the inside of the box and covered them with Sugru to prevent damage to the contents:
(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/trailer/IMG_3482.sized.jpg)

RYB comes with a lid, which fits securely and is clamped in place by the handles at either end.  A Wilko light-duty ratchet strap is less hassle than the Carry Freedom supplied velcro for securing the trailer:
(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/trailer/IMG_3495.sized.jpg)

Lightly hacked BS trailer reflectors and Smart rear light bracket complete the job:
(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/trailer/IMG_3491.sized.jpg)

This is the 'Strong white' box material, and it's the type of plastic that deforms and goes white with stress but doesn't shatter.  It was easy to drill.  The single ratchet strap is more that sufficient to hold the box securely in place, thanks to the feet.  You can happily pick the whole thing up by the box and shake it.

My measurements suggest that there should be room inside the box for the dismantled trailer, though I'm going to wait until the Sugru has cured before trying it.  Externally, the box is 620mm wide, so should fit through doorways with ease, even though the trailer won't.

I'm quite pleased with the result.  This should be more than adequate for random shopping type stuff, and a large load space should make transportation of loose triffid cuttings to the tip a lot less hassle than trying to cram them into the naff plastic bags the council expect us to use for green waste.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: cycleman on 13 March, 2012, 06:40:06 pm
and camping kit  ;)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Ashaman42 on 13 March, 2012, 06:44:33 pm
and camping kit  ;)

Camping kit? You could virtually sleep in the thing anyway  ;D
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 13 March, 2012, 06:46:54 pm
I fear the kitchen sink factor with a box that large...
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Domestique on 13 March, 2012, 06:52:49 pm
Nice  :D
Towing stuff in a trailer is just f*****g brilliant  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 13 March, 2012, 07:02:19 pm
Good effort there Kim but still not quite got the jist of it!

(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-YoEPRouetcg/TJYClgIHvFI/AAAAAAAAGBo/d-3bsMTci6k/s640/p9182827.jpg)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 13 March, 2012, 08:46:22 pm
I leave that sort of thing to Regulator...
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: tonycollinet on 13 March, 2012, 09:27:23 pm
Slightly OT, but where is the best place to by the large y frame these days?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 13 March, 2012, 09:29:57 pm
Chainreaction's clearance section, when they've got 50% off a cosmetically damaged one.   ;D
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Arch on 13 March, 2012, 09:49:29 pm
I fear the kitchen sink factor with a box that large...

I reckon you could just plumb the taps straight onto the box...

And I like your custom hitch stand. ;D
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Andrew Br on 13 March, 2012, 10:40:08 pm

And I like your custom hitch stand. ;D

Yes, I was admiring the strategic use of the toilet roll  :thumbsup:

Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 13 March, 2012, 11:05:44 pm
Interestingly enough, I've been using a box almost identical to the ones that Adam shows in his picture, inside my Yak Bob for several years, to stop carrier bags of shopping falling out.

Mine is clear rather than dark green, and the base has started to fall apart, I suspect due to the plastic getting brittle with age, as the plasticisers evaporate.  Luckily that doesn't really stop it's use, since all I really need are the sides, since the mesh base of the trailer itself stop stuff disappearing in that direction.

I've wondered whether with a Carry Freedom, you could simply make a set of four wooden boards that clipped onto the edges of the trailer, and each other, with something suitable from a DIY store.  That could then be folded entirely flat when not in use.

I may need to invest in a Carry Freedom myself, since I fear getting two cats into one carrier is not going to be an option for much longer, and the Bob won't easily support two cat carriers!
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Mr Arch on 14 March, 2012, 12:49:57 am
I made my trailer slightly differently.  It is suspended fabric and collapses for storage.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y179/Eversley/DSC01759.jpg)

It is big enough to get an Arch in it. :thumbsup:
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y179/Eversley/DSC01730.jpg)

At the other end of the scale I have an extending trailer made up with two folding pallet crates.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y179/Eversley/DSC00394a.jpg)

It extends to nearly twice its length too.
(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y179/Eversley/DSC00375.jpg)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 14 March, 2012, 08:30:22 am
Did you manage to find your RU box at a local retailer/wholesaler or did you order online from the manufacturer?

P.S. Does the collapsed trailer fit inside?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 14 March, 2012, 01:40:49 pm
Did you manage to find your RU box at a local retailer/wholesaler or did you order online from the manufacturer?

Alas not.  Staples stock the normal brittle clear plastic 145l boxes, but everywhere else I found nearby stopped at the 84l size.  Understandable really, they are a bit huge.  So I ordered online from the manufacturer, which was by far the cheapest online price for that box.

During my searching, I found a number of plastic packaging wholesalers that do boxes that might be good alternative options, but most of them want to sell in quantity and/or ship by the pallet.  There also seems to be a hefty premium for lids.


Quote
P.S. Does the collapsed trailer fit inside?

Good question...

(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/trailer/IMG_3501.sized.jpg)

That'll be a "yes, if I can find a way to get the hitch arm out of the Y-frame, where it's managed to get thoroughly stuck".    :-[

Anyone got any cunning ideas?  I've tried violence and harsh language.  I suppose it's undoing the nearby bolt securing the Y to the trailer bed and lubricants, next.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 14 March, 2012, 01:53:58 pm
Anyone got any cunning ideas?  I've tried violence and harsh language.  I suppose it's undoing the nearby bolt securing the Y to the trailer bed and lubricants, next.
Boiling water, for the tube and a cup of tea, for thinking time, in case it doesn't work.

How do you get on with the lollipop joint? Does it require new bike fittings or is it made to fit the original bracket?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 14 March, 2012, 02:13:26 pm
It fits the bracket it was supplied with, unsurprisingly.  I infer from your question that the lollipop hitch is a new thing, and older models of the trailer were supplied with something else?  The bike bracket looks like this:

(http://www.carryfreedom.com/images/S_Hitch_BikeBracket.jpg) (http://www.carryfreedom.com/hitch.html)
 

I've had the trailer for all of about a week now, during which I've been mostly ill, so it's only had an experimental 1km round trip to deliver its packaging to the local recycling bins, though I did deliberately take a route home that included a steep downward slope and some speed bumps, to see what it was like.

I'm tentatively impressed with it.  The idea of securing a trailer with a giant rubber band makes me nervous, but it seems extremely sturdy, happily twists to allow the bike to lie horizontal, and is seems quiet in use compared to most trailer hitches(disclaimer: my ears aren't currently working properly). 
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 14 March, 2012, 02:28:31 pm
The original hitch is a stainless steel universal joint, that is very rattly!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7584gs6HjiE/T2CqhKTOZ5I/AAAAAAAAGjA/hIWJSSraU48/s576/hitch.jpg)

The lollipop has been road tested for, at least, four years so I doubt that anything you throw at it, in normal use </discliamer>, will harm it!
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 14 March, 2012, 02:40:01 pm
If that works how I think it works (bolt hooks over curled end of bracket, pin prevents it moving far enough to un-hook?), the lollipop is probably marginally less fiddly to couple and uncouple, too.  Might make a difference with winter gloves on.


ETA: Got the hitch arm out of the Y-frame, by the highly scientific method of applying WD40 and getting barakta to hold it still while I yanked it.  Have filed off a little swarf around one of the holes on the inside of the frame, and applied some grease for good measure.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: EdinburghFixed on 14 March, 2012, 04:38:36 pm
I got a Y-frame large at the tail end of last year and am loving it. I've done all sorts of awesome stuff with it:

Carried a man's weight in fallen wood (http://mccraw.co.uk/2012/got-wood/), a long coving box (http://mccraw.co.uk/2012/caution-long-vehicle/) and even other bikes (http://mccraw.co.uk/2012/473/) - with no modification.

(http://mccraw.co.uk/blogimage/trailerwood/trailerwoodmini.jpg)

Unfortunately, I forgot I had it on recently and mounted a right-angle kerb at Ludicrous Speed - the empty trailer bounced up to about shoulder height (I shit you not) and came down on one wheel, which is now a little out of true.

It is a really sweet piece of kit. I bought mine full price and it's paid for 1/3 of itself over winter in saved motoring costs.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Domestique on 14 March, 2012, 04:45:36 pm
Edinburgh Fixed, going ot, but what stand is that on your Pompino?
tia
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 14 March, 2012, 05:33:14 pm
I got a Y-frame large at the tail end of last year and am loving it. I've done all sorts of awesome stuff with it:

That's exactly the sort of thing I had in mind when I impulsively bought it.  Not having a specific load in mind, other than generally avoiding having to find use of a car for things, it makes sense to have a really versatile two-wheeled trailer that will happily handle silly loads, especially as we have a recumbent trike available for pulling the really heavy stuff.

It's just had its first proper use, about a 10k round trip transporting a microwave from $evil_electrical_empire up the road, and then the old, considerably heavier one to the tip on Lifford Lane.  It appears that trailers are even more weird and interesting around here than recumbents - I was getting so many stares and extra room while overtaking that I thought that maybe someone was following me on a Trice  :D


Quote
Unfortunately, I forgot I had it on recently and mounted a right-angle kerb at Ludicrous Speed - the empty trailer bounced up to about shoulder height (I shit you not) and came down on one wheel, which is now a little out of true.

FWIW, the axles appear to be the same diameter as the ICE trike front hubs, so this botch (https://yacf.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=56266.0) should work for truing the wheels.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: davelodwig on 14 March, 2012, 08:02:32 pm
They are brilliant, I've got the Y Frame small which I've used everything from Tesco home delivery crates to under bed storage containers on. Bought the small one to go with my Brompton many years ago, was great for camping and doing the shopping. 
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: EdinburghFixed on 14 March, 2012, 10:30:28 pm
Edinburgh Fixed, going ot, but what stand is that on your Pompino?
tia

Pletscher Twin, I got it from Amazon for £24.

Pretty sturdy and makes it easy to work on the bike (as well as leave it places). However, if there's a load on the trailer it can easily tip the bike by lifting the whole back end and swinging it about - the bike weighs only a few kilos at the rear compared with 40+ on the trailer, inevitable results etc.

@Kim, I also bought mine on impulse really (I can easily just drive around places) but has been great. 230 miles since November, so I'm hoping it should break even around the 12 month mark, including maintenance.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Domestique on 14 March, 2012, 10:58:33 pm
Quote
Pletscher Twin, I got it from Amazon for £24.

Many thanks  :thumbsup:
Ordered. Been looking for a stand to work with disc brakes.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 16 March, 2012, 10:28:06 am
Slightly OT, but where is the best place to by the large y frame these days?

At the moment, it looks like it's Wiggle.  They are £180 and there's a £15 off if you spend over £100 deal at the moment, so it comes out at £165.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 16 March, 2012, 03:42:22 pm
A bit OT, but how much assembly is required to put a Large Carry Freedom together?

I'm wondering about getting one, but inevitably I'll be out when DHL turns up, and I'd rather avoid the slight ludicrousness of picking up a trailer using a trailer!

Can it be assembled using just screwdrivers/allen keys?  The mount looks like it can just be fitted to any wheel, just by unbolting it, or releasing a QR clamp.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 16 March, 2012, 06:40:52 pm
A bit OT, but how much assembly is required to put a Large Carry Freedom together?

Can it be assembled using just screwdrivers/allen keys?  The mount looks like it can just be fitted to any wheel, just by unbolting it, or releasing a QR clamp.
Mine came CKD, like a Land Rover being shipped to Africa, and it all had to be put together. Base to frame, wheels to axles, reflectors to base, etc.

Basic tools for assembly and any wheel that isn't single side mount, like the front wheel of an ICE trike, for the bracket.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 16 March, 2012, 07:10:08 pm
Hmm, I guess maybe I'll use the Yak Bob and several bungees, if I have to.

If there was something essential missing, then getting the box back, on a bike, would probably be nigh on impossible!

Getting back to the thread, I'm wondering about using a Peli 1660 (https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=peli+1660&tbm=isch) case.  If I could find some way to securely lock it to the trailer, and the whole shooting match to whatever the bike's locked to, it would be totally secure for going around shops and picking up things.

A Peli Case would be proof against any tool that anyone would likely have to hand.  A decent padlock or two on the case itself would need a set of bolt croppers to get through. The trick will be working out how to attach it to the trailer securely.  Possibly a metal plate on the underside of the trailer, with a couple of holes, and then insert a padlock hasp through the entire lot, although getting it around and through all the holes could be interesting.

Not light, and about twice the price of the trailer itself, but a damned good basis for a secure transport.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 16 March, 2012, 07:14:59 pm
A bit OT, but how much assembly is required to put a Large Carry Freedom together?

Complete assembly instructions here:  http://www.carryfreedom.com/downloads/Y-Frame_Instructions.pdf
(Interestingly, this version shows the older style hitch.)

Basically it means bolting the load bed to the frame, and a couple more bolts of a smaller size for the hitch.  Fitting the wheels is tool-less, unless the axles need adjusting (mine didn't). Should be doable with a set of Allen keys, a small adjustable spanner and whatever you need to remove the axle/QR skewer to fit the bracket to the bike.  Oh, and a pump with a Schrader head to put some air in the tyres.

Reflectors and box mounting gubbins can safely wait until you get home.  A couple of bungee cords will suffice to secure the crushed packaging to the trailer.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 16 March, 2012, 07:26:59 pm
The trick will be working out how to attach it to the trailer securely.  Possibly a metal plate on the underside of the trailer, with a couple of holes, and then insert a padlock hasp through the entire lot, although getting it around and through all the holes could be interesting.

I was thinking about this, as my effort currently lacks any way to secure the box against theft.  Realistically, I'd use a smaller box (or two) for supermarket type shopping, anyway, as you probably want something that will fit inside a standard shopping trolley, so I'm not currently too fussed about that.  If it's B&Q or something, I'm happy to wheel a trailer around, or commandeer one of their more industrial trolleys.

But yeah.  I was thinking rings or padlock hasps through the base of the box instead of the usual feet, then run a cable lock through them from the underside of the trailer bed (and optionally through the wheels as well).  I expect that's enough security for the purpose, as anyone serious enough to bring decent tools will probably nick the whole lot.

Alternatively, sacrifice the quick-release box functionality, and bolt the box directly the the Y-frame (using security fasteners of choice, if desired).  I'm assuming those boxes are sturdy enough to make the trailer bed redundant.  Would have the additional advantage of saving a substantial amount of weight.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: cycleman on 16 March, 2012, 08:26:33 pm
is it that crime ridden in city's now that such measures are need  :o ?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 16 March, 2012, 08:32:24 pm
I've no idea, but once you're into the 50-quid-and-a-couple-of-hours-of-fettling range, I'd rather someone didn't see the box and think it might be useful...
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 16 March, 2012, 10:50:06 pm
I'm thinking of it in terms of doing some shopping, and leaving it in the case whilst going to another shop.  I wouldn't leave it unlocked any more than I'd leave a cars boot or doors unlocked.

A Peli 1660 case is also pretty damned expensive, but it's also heavy enough that you'd probably have to steal the whole shooting match to move it!  It's about 15kg.  That's one reason why I wouldn't want it permanently attached.  The other, is that some big flat things would be more suited to being used on the flatbed trailer, and not in a box.

On the plus side, since it would weigh so much, carrying two or three locks, including a New York D-Lock would make little difference!
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 16 March, 2012, 10:51:07 pm
I'm thinking of it in terms of doing some shopping, and leaving it in the case whilst going to another shoip.  I wouldn't leave it unlocked any more than I'd leave a cars boot or doors unlocked.

GPWM!  I hadn't thought of that.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: ed_o_brain on 17 March, 2012, 12:01:04 am
Kim,

Is that the large Y-frame?
That box looks incredibly useful. I hope I still have the feet that came with mine.

The hitch on mine is the older style one and the only why i can unfasten it from the bike is by unfastening/refastening the quick release skewer. The lollipop  looks a much better design.

When i have some $dosh I'll investigate getting a better box and changing the hitch/bike fastning.

Useful thread!
Thanks
Ed
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 17 March, 2012, 12:29:18 am
Is that the large Y-frame?

That box looks incredibly useful. I hope I still have the feet that came with mine.

Yep, Large Y-frame.  The 145l RUB is almost a perfect ft.

Generic rubber feet should be reasonably easy to obtain if you've lost yours - there's nothing critical about the shape.  Be sure to use penny washers on the inside of the box to reduce the stress from the bolts.


Quote
The hitch on mine is the older style one and the only why i can unfasten it from the bike is by unfastening/refastening the quick release skewer. The lollipop  looks a much better design.

In that case, it's a conclusive victory for the lollipop hitch.  Out of interest, have you tried with the QR handle on the drive side of the bike, or maybe a security skewer?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: ed_o_brain on 17 March, 2012, 12:51:07 am
I wasn't clear, it's because the hitch bent up like that near enough the first time I used it.
Anyway, thanks Kim, that's really appreciated.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Arch on 17 March, 2012, 10:37:41 am

I've wondered whether with a Carry Freedom, you could simply make a set of four wooden boards that clipped onto the edges of the trailer, and each other, with something suitable from a DIY store.  That could then be folded entirely flat when not in use.


If you can find a couple of discarded estate agent boards, then Correx would be better than wood - waterproof, and very light. We bodge bases for bags out of Correx at work, to stop stuff falling through the holes that wear in the recycling bags through dragging them about on concrete.

If you feel really flush, I expect you can buy Correx, but we're very mean, so we have to wait for boards to get dumped on the reserve. I'm on the waiting list for a piece to form a base on my trailer for when the net base isn't sturdy enough.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: MattH on 17 March, 2012, 09:16:53 pm
Mine came 2nd hand with a Ferplast Atlas 50 professional (http://www.ferplast.it/scheda_prodotto_eng.php/prodotto=/id_item=73050021/id_menu=01020104) dog crate bolted securely to it, which is about 260L capacity with a door at the back
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6179/6171981864_cefe7fe41a.jpg)
This takes four of the large tough re-usable supermarket bags fairly easily (just got to remember not to stuff them too full so they don't bulge out sideways).

You can take off the lid of the crate, leaving a useful base behind -  here it is after I'd been to collect a full size 15kg sack of animal feed. It looks lost in the bottom of the trailer, I could easily have got a couple more sacks in there
(http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6175/6191661013_eea8c33302.jpg)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 20 March, 2012, 11:05:36 am
Mine came CKD, like a Land Rover being shipped to Africa, and it all had to be put together. Base to frame, wheels to axles, reflectors to base, etc. ...

Do you remember roughly how big the box was?

Since checking online I just found out that it's out for delivery, and I'm at work, I know I'm not going to be around to take the parcel in.

I'll need to take the Yak Bob out to Epsom tomorrow morning to pick it up, and that's likely going to need bungees and whatnot to secure things, but it would be useful if I had a vague idea what size the box is likely to be.

(I'm going to have to take a photo of a trailer being used to pick up a trailer, aren't I!  I also wonder if I can use the Yak Bob's wheel QR to clamp the Carry Freedom mount, and form a trailer train. ;D).
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 20 March, 2012, 11:25:00 am
Do you remember roughly how big the box was?
Not really but probably around 1000x600x400. I can't imagine the box for it being bigger than that (I can but what's the point of it being bigger?).

Since we've had the trailer we had a new front door installed and the trailer doesn't go through it!   ::-)  I keep forgetting and loading the trailer in the hall and then unload it in the porch or take a wheel off to get it through.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 20 March, 2012, 11:50:52 am
Do you remember roughly how big the box was?
... probably around 1000x600x400. ...

Hmm, the Yak Bob is listed as having a cargo area of 62 cm×40 cm, so it could be a bit tight in that direction.  I guess if all else fails, I can just rest if across the top of the trailer, and possibly pull the flag off if that gets in the way.  I had better make sure I take an excess of bungees and rope with me.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 20 March, 2012, 01:19:33 pm
Mine came CKD, like a Land Rover being shipped to Africa, and it all had to be put together. Base to frame, wheels to axles, reflectors to base, etc. ...

Do you remember roughly how big the box was?

Squareish, so presumably a little over 70cm (length of the load bed) wide.  Maybe 4-6" thick.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 20 March, 2012, 01:25:23 pm
Since we've had the trailer we had a new front door installed and the trailer doesn't go through it!   ::-)  I keep forgetting and loading the trailer in the hall and then unload it in the porch or take a wheel off to get it through.  :facepalm:

That's where the smaller Y-frame comes in.  Or a removable box to fit the large one (if it fits between the wheels, it ought to go through most doors).

I'm not that fussed, as we're used to having to rotate the trike to fit it through the door, and the trailer's almost the same width.  I can imagine it being annoying if your door has shrunk, though.  You may also have Dirk Gently style sofa issues...
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 21 March, 2012, 07:21:12 pm
Luckily I managed to stay in and await delivery for it today, and it turned up!

In terms of assembly, all I would have needed to pick it up using itself, would be a small spanner (adjustable would be fine) and allen key, to bolt the lollipop to the metal arm, and some way to remove the bike wheel to fit the clamp (on a bike with a QR wheel, no tools required).  At a pinch, gravity and friction on the lollipop would probably have held the bolt in.

The box would have fitted into the Yak Bob if I'd needed to do that, but only just, and would have been so upright that bungees would have been needed to keep it in that position.

It comes with a couple of small reflectors fitted to the underside of the carrying surface, but I may well remove those before they come loose of their own accord and start rattling.  I've got a couple of rack light fittings which I reckon I can screw into the back of the board with a small pilot hole and some self tappers.

I'm not sure what to do boxwise, I shall have to hit the local DIY stores and similar, and see what they have available.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 21 March, 2012, 08:50:21 pm
Mine only came with one small reflector (though there are two holes in the underside of the load bed), so I assume one must have gone AWOL.  I've noticed that the hole position is sufficiently far back that the reflector doesn't actually touch the ground when the trailer is rotated around its axles to stand vertically, which seems to be the most likely way for it to get damaged.  If yours doesn't already have the holes, take this into account when making them.

I was underwhelmed by it, though, so have stuck a couple of standard triangular trailer reflectors (which can be had for about a quid each, and specifically denote a trailer) on the back of the box, along with the business end of a Smart rear light bracket.  And some spoke reflectors on the wheels, because I seem to have an endless supply of the things.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 21 March, 2012, 09:28:49 pm
If and when I find a suitable box, I may well get a couple of triangular trailer reflectors, although with the trailer used in flat-bed mode, there's no sensible way to attach them, and they'd likely get in the way of any overhanging load.

With the wheels removed, the reflectors are a bit more prone to damage, but we shall see how they fare.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 22 March, 2012, 08:15:26 am
With the wheels removed, the reflectors are a bit more prone to damage, but we shall see how they fare.
Not too well here! I moved them forward and replaced one with a combination LED light + reflector, I'm now going to replace the self tappers with a counter sink bolt and bolt through the load bed.
It's not very good for the reflectors when a wheel parts company with the trailer either when riding back from the allotment with a load of veg!  :hand:
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 22 March, 2012, 12:57:58 pm
It's not very good for the reflectors when a wheel parts company with the trailer either when riding back from the allotment with a load of veg!  :hand:

Eek, I hope that sort of thing doesn't happen often...
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 22 March, 2012, 01:09:07 pm
Eek, I hope that sort of thing doesn't happen often...
There are tales of the left wheel self dismounting.
Mine was a simple user error that happened, luckily, on a quiet, off road, path. Right wheel not mounted properly, early on in my Y frame history.

The wheel clips into the axle (or the axle into the shaft, I can't remember which) and so as long as it is clipped in it should not be possible for it to come out. If it isn't fully home then it might.
I don't think they are all user error though and it mostly involves the left wheel.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 24 March, 2012, 10:52:28 am
I'm bored with the box idea so I thought trestle table!  :thumbsup:
This way I can stop and have a cuppa on a proper table. I'll keep the tea set, tablecloth, and doilies in the front bag.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Qvl6D9NbCGU/T22lzw8SE7I/AAAAAAAAGlg/A-ezkT6qacU/s640/p3246219.jpg)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: graculus on 24 March, 2012, 01:32:53 pm
And the lump hammer is for...?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: delthebike on 24 March, 2012, 02:15:35 pm
And the lump hammer is for...?
Duh! Hammering lumps of course!  ::-)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: cycleman on 24 March, 2012, 11:07:17 pm
sugar lumps ;D
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 24 March, 2012, 11:39:14 pm
The original hitch is a stainless steel universal joint, that is very rattly!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7584gs6HjiE/T2CqhKTOZ5I/AAAAAAAAGjA/hIWJSSraU48/s576/hitch.jpg)

The lollipop has been road tested for, at least, four years so I doubt that anything you throw at it, in normal use </discliamer>, will harm it!

Tis not the original. Original was the resin ball & steel socket affair.

My advice to those who are attaching boxes is, if you have a decent base on the box, just remove the trailer bed to save yourself that extra weight. I have a range of boxes/flat beds that I drop on mine and stick 4 bolts through the frame with twist knobs on the other side. When I need a bit of security I have my samsonite suitcase bolted to it. Very versatile trailer.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 25 March, 2012, 12:30:21 am
And the lump hammer is for...?

You should always carry a lump hammer when cycling.  It's the only way to show errant cotter pins or crank bolts who's boss.  Charlotte and Deano will testify.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 25 March, 2012, 02:12:06 pm
I just got a B&Q Jumbo Tote box, which seems quite a handy size for my purposes.  It's not quite as wide as Kim's box, but suitable for me, so I can use it for Sainsburys runs, and similar.

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/VinceTrailerBox_thumb480.jpg) (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/VinceTrailerBox.jpg)

(http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/TrailerBox_thumb480.jpg) (http://jakal.sp.ph.ic.ac.uk/~timo/TrailerBox.jpg)

I'll probably get a triangular reflector for the rear, but just the one in the middle.  I haven't yet fitted the legs to it.  I'll only fit a couple, because the left and right hand side ones are probably not quite within the footprint of the box.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 25 March, 2012, 04:03:48 pm
It's positively aero :)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Tigerbiten on 25 March, 2012, 10:40:06 pm
I've a aluminium box bolted directly to the frame of my large Y frame trailer.
(http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a239/FlyingDodo/2012%20rides/24%2003%202012%20Northampton%20to%20London%20ride/bike006.jpg)
It started out at ~150 liters in size but I've found out over the last 2 years that I don't need all that room.
So I've cut around 1/3 in hight out and pop rivited the two halves back together.
Also the old trailer had the wooden board undernether and this one doesn't so its also around half the weight.
I just need to add lights, mudguards, flag and reflectors to finish it off.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 25 March, 2012, 10:50:21 pm
Who's that committing crimes against fashion in the foreground?   ;D
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Tigerbiten on 28 March, 2012, 05:27:03 pm
I've added my trailer flag and 4x orange/yellow striped trailer boards ( one on each corner) to my trailer.
Now just need to add lights, triangle reflectors and mudguards to finish it.

Not sure how I'm going to do the mudguards.
Not sure if I'll use the old trike mudguards I've got or a strip of aluminium bent into a curve to fit over the tops of the wheels ???????
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 28 March, 2012, 10:58:15 pm
Lightly hacked BS trailer reflectors and Smart rear light bracket complete the job:
(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/trailer/IMG_3491.sized.jpg)

Out of interest Kim, why did you slice up the reflectors?  As far as I can work out, the law says that a bicycle trailer needs a triangular reflector (with ECE mark III or IIIA), so you probably could have gotten away with a single one mounted in the centre.

I've got two on order, so when they turn up, I can choose to mount one or two on my box, depending on size and fit etc.  Not using one would waste a whole £1-50 or so, which wouldn't overly upset me!

(Interestingly, I notice that I've just fitted exactly the same Smart rear light onto mine!)

Edit: Apparently whilst the UK fairly minimal regulations on bicycle trailers seem to require a triangular reflector, it looks like the German regulations explicitly forbid a triangular one (whilst requiring a rear reflector, and front and side ones, which don't appear at all in the UK regs).
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 28 March, 2012, 11:01:55 pm
It never really occurred to me to only use a single reflector.  I considered making triangles that would fit properly with the red tape, but I already had the reflectors and only one strip of red reflective tape left over from barakta's flag.  I also considered hacking the box, but I decided that compromising the structural ridges would be silly.

Anyway, two reflectors makes it look wide, which can only be a good thing.


While we're on this thread, I used the trailer with the box for the first time the other day, to do a bulk shop from a Tesco about 4 fairly non-flat miles away.  I had about 30kg of stuff in it, including 24 litres of orange juice and a couple of bulk packs of loo roll, and the box was only about half full.  Hills were climbable with that load, though I would have wanted the trike for anything heavier.  Descending was fine, but sharp braking and travelling at less than 5mph were a bit 'interesting'.

It's impressively non-rattly when there's a decent load in it.  Even on the potholes.  And drivers suddenly become uber-patient and polite.

What I did learn, was that there's no way I can lift the box off (or indeed onto) the trailer with that sort of weight in it, which means it won't go through the door.  Not really a problem, just something to be aware of when loading up.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Tigerbiten on 29 March, 2012, 01:02:49 am
Cars tend to be only slightly better with the trailer on behind the trike than without.
But then again I'm starting with the bent effect on cars anyway ............  ;D

But I tend to leave it on as it get stops cars sitting on my back wheel which is only inches from my head.

Plus, if I try hard enough, I cannot reverse the trailer while on the trike without jacknifing it ........  :demon:
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 29 March, 2012, 01:12:45 pm
Cars tend to be only slightly better with the trailer on behind the trike than without.
But then again I'm starting with the bent effect on cars anyway ............  ;D

I'm finding that upwrong + trailer seems to get loads more room and politeness than either flavour of 'bent.  Presumably because of the "Aww, it's a gurl hauling lots of stuff, poor thing, if only she could afford a car" effect.

Not tried the trailer onna bent yet, but I doubt it'll add much WTF-factor to the trike, as they're about the same width and height, and the trike has a powerful wtf-factor anyway.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 29 March, 2012, 01:34:38 pm
Right, I've now got a couple of triangular reflectors, white backed ones as well, so completely legal on a dark background (such as my box).  I may put both of them on the box, mainly depending on finding enough suitable bolts to attach them.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: L CC on 29 March, 2012, 01:48:44 pm
I'm finding that upwrong + trailer seems to get loads more room and politeness than either flavour of 'bent.  Presumably because of the "Aww, it's a gurl hauling lots of stuff, poor thing, if only she could afford a car" effect.
Hmmm.
Me & No2Daughter with trailer clearly got some 'Jesus what an evil parent making a child do that, lets kill 'em off and save her from years of misery'.
Or it could have been the Fetfud effect.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 29 March, 2012, 02:51:34 pm
I admit that so far my trailer-hauling has been limited to relatively quiet roads (like the new bypass that nobody really uses) and dual carriageways, outside of peak hours.  I expect that pulling a trailer down the Pershore Road in rush hour would bring out the best of brummie.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: marcusjb on 29 March, 2012, 02:58:39 pm
On the whole we find more room and courtesy being given when we're towing a trailer. 

I don't know whether it's because people have seen bikes hauling trailers with kids/dogs/cats in (not that our Radical Cyclone could ever carry a kid or whatever!). 
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 29 March, 2012, 03:54:44 pm
We seem to get a fair ammount of respect when out with trike and trailer. I think it's something to do with the ammount of wheels and sheer size lol.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Jayjay on 20 October, 2014, 10:26:27 pm
My missus and I have had (and damaged) quite a few supermarket and DIY store boxes in the past. Not in the way of some sadistic recreation, but routine domestic storage and events. Many seem brittle and easy to shatter.
 The yellow Curver box I found in one corner of the garage seems made of sterner stuff though not overly large, maybe 50 litres? It went well on the CFY until repossessed by my lady for mundane storage duties.
 The 84 litre Really Useful Box fits easily onto the CFY large platform and I loop a couple of bungees through the front and rear holes onto the box rim. The box overlaps about half of those holes. It is a thicker and more flexible plastic than most storage boxes, and I have the lid in case of lightweight or damp sensitive cargo.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 23 April, 2015, 11:46:29 am
What about this ikea one; 78x56x43 cm/130 Litres:

http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/90102971/ (http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/90102971/)

Only 10 pounds.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 23 April, 2015, 06:22:30 pm
It'll fit but those boxes are prone to cracking, especially having been exposed to sunlight.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 23 April, 2015, 11:51:19 pm
It would also involve a trip to Ikea  :hand:
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 26 April, 2015, 11:38:22 am
I managed to pick up a standard  145 litre really useful box for a (bargain) few pounds  (its missing its lid):

it looks like it will just about fit a Circe atlas Trailer.

I presume some Duct tape around the sides will be needed as reinforcement.

Are the really strong versions also made of polypropylene or something else (the recycle symbol should give a clue)? Also is either version UV proof (if left outdoors)?

Can UV protection be added belatedly: ("sunscreen" for plastic boxes :) ) ?

Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 27 April, 2015, 12:25:21 pm
Further to the previous post:

it seems on the Circe Atlas, the 145 litre box only has 0.5inch gap to each wheel and carry freedom manual recommends 1inch(25mm)  for boxes: so it would need to fixed to avoid any sideways movement at all.....

Any answers to my plastic questions?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 27 April, 2015, 12:50:04 pm
My box is buried under a mass of drying tent at present, so I can't easily inspect it for markings.  FWIW, the 'strong' material is the stuff that forms white stress marks rather than cracking.  No idea what it's like with UV, mine lives indoors.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 27 April, 2015, 11:43:30 pm
Further to the previous post:

it seems on the Circe Atlas, the 145 litre box only has 0.5inch gap to each wheel and carry freedom manual recommends 1inch(25mm)  for boxes: so it would need to fixed to avoid any sideways movement at all.....

Any answers to my plastic questions?

Providing you're using the locator feet or bolting the box down it shouldn't matter about the clearence as long as it's not touching. My last sound system was just 5mm short.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 28 April, 2015, 05:51:35 pm
My box is buried under a mass of drying tent at present, so I can't easily inspect it for markings.

Tent dried and packed, trailer extracted, used for a recycling/shopping run and strong Really Useful Box examined:  The recycling mark on the underside of the box is '5' with "PP" underneath.  I assume that means polypropylene.  There doesn't seem to be a mark on the lid, but it appears to be the same stuff.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 28 April, 2015, 07:21:46 pm
..... strong Really Useful Box examined:  The recycling mark on the underside of the box is '5' with "PP" underneath.  I assume that means polypropylene.  There doesn't seem to be a mark on the lid, but it appears to be the same stuff.

So it would appear both standard and strong boxes are polypropylene.

I have looked up  PP on the web:
it seems it is resistant to fatigue cracking (eg used by those folding picnic bowls etc).
it is sometimes mixed with ethylene for improved impact resistance. I don't know if that would disallow a 5 recycle symbol.
http://www.bpf.co.uk/plastipedia/polymers/PP.aspx

PP  isn't naturally  UV resistant unless UV protective additives are, err,  added :). However, it seems acrylic laquer can be used as a UV blocking coating. http://www.plasticmentor.com/97/which-plastic-materials-are-uv-stable/

My  box has survived some drilling...
 
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 29 April, 2015, 12:30:55 pm
These are cheap and UV proof:
http://www.tanks-direct.co.uk/multi_tubs/multi-tub_%28rectangular__slash__90_litre%29 (http://www.tanks-direct.co.uk/multi_tubs/multi-tub_%28rectangular__slash__90_litre%29)
They are supplied with some cheap trailers .
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Bike-Trailer-Loads-Trolley-Trailer-90l-/370881071409?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item565a3c0931 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Bike-Trailer-Loads-Trolley-Trailer-90l-/370881071409?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item565a3c0931)
Probably suit the y small, as well as the large and Circe Atlas  too.

Wouls need a fabric/tarp lid of course..
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 29 April, 2015, 12:59:32 pm
I believe the Really Useful Boxes are the same material but the process that makes them clear is what weakens them.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Charlotte on 29 April, 2015, 04:50:46 pm
I use a Euro crate on my CF large Y frame trailer, as supplied by office removals companies.  A bit like this one:

(http://www.plastor.co.uk/sites/default/files/imagecache/product/10A6B_54_Litre_Crate.jpg)
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 29 April, 2015, 06:04:37 pm
You can buy the actual folding one that CF sell for about £60 directly. Search google for folding box along with the dimensions.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 29 April, 2015, 08:31:11 pm
I believe the Really Useful Boxes are the same material but the process that makes them clear is what weakens them.
As mentioned / linked to earlier: Polypropylene needs UV protection/absorption additives to withstand UV.
Really Useful Boxes are Polypropylene but whether they have UV stabilisers added is unknown to me.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 29 April, 2015, 08:54:33 pm
The white strong ones do.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 29 April, 2015, 09:15:07 pm
Ahh, I didn't know that:  did you ask them?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Valiant on 29 April, 2015, 09:43:47 pm
I was told that by a sales rep
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: TimO on 08 May, 2015, 08:06:32 am
Generally dark materials are more UV resistant, because the outer layer can behave sacrificially.  Something which is opaque to visible light is more likely to be opaque to UV, and whilst the outer layer may crack, the inside will be protected by that outer part.

In general, clear and white plastics will not last as long as dark (ie black) plastics of the same material.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 23 May, 2015, 11:50:20 am
...Lightly hacked BS trailer reflectors and Smart rear light bracket complete the job:
(http://www.ductilebiscuit.net/gallery_albums/trailer/IMG_3491.sized.jpg)...

Haven't you knobbled at least 50% area  of those (ex?)proper reflectors (if water gets behind the prisms/corner-cubes rather than air then they won't reflect: so you might as well have made the whole triangle out of reflective tape or to satisfy the letter of the law, leave an least one unmodified triangular ECE III(A) reflector(s) ?
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Kim on 23 May, 2015, 12:44:32 pm
Yes.  It was the best I could do with the materials I had to hand.
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: SA_SA_SA_SA on 05 June, 2015, 12:38:16 pm
Yes.  It was the best I could do with the materials I had to hand.
I just went for one unsullied (unquestionably legal) obligatory ECE Triangle mounted slightly offside of centrally and additional red reflective tape. I suppose I could have made a second optional triangle out of red reflective tape.....
Title: Re: Boxes for large Y-Frame trailer? Combining gardening and cycling!
Post by: Aan on 23 September, 2016, 10:32:24 pm
Went into Homebase today and picked up a "Black Trunk" with lid for £14.68. It's 135 litres and fits the CF Large Y very neatly.
Also got a black 84 litre Really Useful Extra Strength black box and lid for £18.88.
These seem great prices. I'll bolt some doorstops on them and it gives me a couple of useful options.