Trailers

When I first picked up my M1101, the lighting had definitely seen better days. The lenses were faded, the housings were weathered, and the taillights didn’t even match—one side had been upgraded to LEDs at some point, while the other was still running old-school incandescent bulbs. Simple Upgrade, Big Impact Rather than trying to piece things together, I decided to replace everything with matching LED side markers and taillights from Hecasa. The install was mostly plug-and-play (after drilling out rivets): Hecasa Humvee/M1101/M1102 Replacement LED Taillights The Hecasa LED taillights (Amazon affiliate link) are listed as 12v, which is what I needed for my trailer since I converted it to 12v. However, reviews were mixed how well they work on the native 24v system of the HUMVEE. One Humvee owner mentioned issues afterwards with the lights failing. Hecasa Side Marker Lamps Here’s my installed Hecasa MMWV, 2 1/2 Ton and 5 Ton Military Trucks 12V Turn Signal Parking Lamp with Amber Lens (Amazon affiliate link). As previously mentioned, drilling out rivets were required before I could install. Once they were drilled out, I used the included bolt/nut/washer hardware that was included with the lights. No more rivets! More on that next… One Extra Step: Side Marker Mounting Upgrade One thing worth calling out—the side marker lights aren’t quite as simple as the taillights. From the factory, they’re riveted into plastic buckets, and those buckets are riveted into the trailer body. To remove them, I had to drill out the rivets. Rather than reinstalling them the same way, I wanted something more serviceable for the future. I ended up installing rivet nuts in place of the original rivets, which allowed me to: I’ll go deeper into that setup in my 3D Printed M1101 Side Marker Bucket post. The Hecasa Rear Marker Replacements At the very back of the M1101 trailer are 3 LED marker lights that are mounted to fairly thick angle iron steel. These don’t use plastic housings like the other side marker lights, but they are still riveted in. Once again, I opted to go with M4 rivet nuts for easier removal (if ever needed). Note: I only installed 3 rivet nuts for each of these rear marker lights. The Hecasa lights have a grounding bolt that will attach a grounding wiring with a nut and washer that go on the back side. For the M4 rivet nuts, I did have to drill out a slightly larger hole. M3 Rivet Nuts would have fit, but the M3 hardware looked to small to me. I’ve only found the Hecasa side marker lights available in pairs, so I did end up with a spare for the rear. HECASA 2Pcs Rear LED Side Marker Lights Compatible with HMMWV, 2 1/2 Ton and 5 Ton Military Trucks and M1101/M1102 Military Trailer 12V Turn Signal Parking Lamp Plastic Rear Red Lens (Amazon affiliate link). The Result This upgrade completely changed the look of the trailer. The new LEDs are brighter, cleaner, and give off a much more modern feel. Combined with the fresh paint job, the trailer now leans hard into that restomod aesthetic—it honestly looks like a brand-new build with military roots. If you’re still running old or mismatched lights on your M1101/M1102, this is an upgrade you can do that delivers an immediate visual payoff. As far as the quality of the lights, I will post updates on any issues related to reliability and how well they hold up against the elements.

I decided to take a different approach with my M1101 trailer this time—no spray gun, no compressor, no professional setup. Just rattle cans. And honestly? I’m pretty happy with how it turned out. Why I Went the Rattle Can Route This wasn’t about building a show trailer—it was about building something I can actually use and maintain. With spray paint: If it gets beat up on the trail, I’ll just grab another can and touch it up. Done. The Color Combo (Better Than Expected) For this build, I used: The satin gray gives it that clean, modern look, while the gloss black adds contrast and makes the hardware pop. Prep Work I didn’t go overboard here: Not perfect. Not meticulous. Just enough to get paint to stick. And that’s kind of the point—I want to see how well this holds up in the real world, not in a perfect garage scenario. How It Looks So Far Even with just a couple coats so far, it looks clean, uniform, and way better than the worn military finish it had before. I do plan on adding an additional coat later. The Real Test: Durability This is where I’m most curious. Since I didn’t fully sand everything, I’ll be keeping an eye on: The upside is, touch-ups are about as easy as it gets. What I’m Planning Next The outside is done (for now), but the inside of the trailer box is next. I’m deciding between: Either way, I want something that can take abuse hauling what ever I throw at it. Next M1101 Upgrade Here’s a preview of the aftermarket taillights: Final Thoughts If you’ve been putting off repainting your trailer because it feels like too big of a project—don’t. This was: And most importantly, it fits how I actually use the trailer. Sometimes “good enough” is exactly what you need.

For just about everyone who picks up a military trailer, if it was purchased at a military auction you’ll find it was wired for 24 volts, the native voltage system of the HUMVEE. The first thing you’re likely looking to do is make it compatible with your civilian tow vehicle (unless you have a military HUMVEE to pair it with). One positive is you don’t have to rewire the entire trailer. When I picked mine up from auction, I brought several zip ties knowing my magnets on my magnetic tow lights wouldn’t help much on the aluminum box of the M1101. There actually seemed to be decent mounting places on the steel frame, but I still used zip ties to ensure the temporary tow lights didn’t fall. Adapters Now, there are some adapters out there, however, the general consensus is they are rather over-priced for what they are. If they’re in your budget and you want to the fastest solution, these adapters might be your best choice. Most use the 4-pin flat. I’ve also seen some 7 blade harnesses on eBay that a seller has made themselves, crimping on some packard connectors (also called shell connectors) that will plug right in to the existing quick disconnects. Then, you just have to bolt down the ground wire for the new harness. I went with the Conntek 10110-124BX 7-Way Cord & Wired Junction Box, 10.3′. For most vehicles, I wouldn’t recommend going any shorter assuming you plan to connect at the quick disconnects of the trailer. Splicing in a Harness I opted to splice a new harness myself and also went with a junction box. I considered using packard connectors, but they don’t seem readily available and more I searched for them it sounded like they weren’t used that often anymore, replaced by a new, more modern harness option. Not far from the front of the trailer box, you’ll find the packard connectors. These are quick disconnects and you’ll be able to completely remove the original 12-pin harness. From here, you have a few different options. M1101/2 Junction Box Wiring 7-pin (7-blade) junction box setup—this will also give me future expansion for possible camping lights, rock lights, or even a small battery setup. Original M1101 Wiring Harness The factory setup includes: It’s durable—but not practical. You can adapt it… but after digging into it, I realized: Rewire vs. Adapter You’ve got two paths: Option 1 — Rewire at the Packard Connections (What I Did) ✔ Clean✔ Reliable✔ Upgradable Option 2 — Adapter ✔ Quick plug and play – no splicing✔ Retains originally 12-pin harness✖ More expensive The Setup I Went With (Simple + Future-Proof) Here’s what I installed: This gives me: The Wiring Diagram (What Connects Where) This is the standard 7-pin layout I used: White → Ground – I ran a ground wire from the junction block to the existing ground near the disconnectsBrown → 22 460 Running lights Red → 22 461 Left turn / brake Green → 21 A Right turn / brake Inside the junction box, each of these wires gets its own terminal—making everything clean and serviceable. Grounding If your lights flicker, dim, or act weird… it’s almost always a bad ground. Again, I simply ran a ground wire from the grounding terminal in the junction box to the same ground location that was near the quick disconnects. Tips to use: This alone eliminates 90% of trailer wiring issues. Bonus: Wire It for Future You Even if you don’t need it yet, a 7-blade junction box is ready for: Trust me—you’ll want these later. Prep Work I ordered my harness several months ago and finally started getting around to installing it. I noticed since then some junction boxes have color coding on them. I decided to buy some oil-based paint markers so I could color code mine. It’s a lot easier than trying to read the raised plastic text. Here’s after I color coded the ends of the terminals with the paint markers. Later, I also added a stripe to the plastic just in case the terminal paint fades or peels off. M1101 12v Conversion For my installation, I ended up cutting the 3 necessary wires and crimped on non-insulated ring terminals. I cut a slit in one of the grommets of the junction box and pulled the wires through. Noticed I also added color-coded zip ties to the original M1101 wiring to match what terminal the wire needed to go to. I figured this was also easier than reading a number code on the metal tags and having to cross-reference it if I ever had to remove them for some reason. Next, it was time to make the connections. Mounting the Junction Box I ended up marking the holes for where I would bolt the junction box. I drilled the holes and then installed rivet nuts (also called riv nuts for short). Some might try self tapping screws, but I’ve found more and more projects where I’m using these rivet nuts. The junction box I purchased had 2 mounting tabs, one on each end. Here’s the first riv nut installed. Mounted and Installed 24V Lights vs 12V You technically can run the stock 24V tail lights. They certainly won’t be as bright since they were designed for twice the voltage. Since mine were mismatched when I bought the trailer, I decided to go with a new pair, but these are the taillights that came on my trailer. Especially in daylight, the passenger side incadescent wasn’t nearly as bright as the LED light that had apparently been swapped in at some point by the military. Running a “trailer light test” from the truck (hence the lights flashing). And here’s the passenger side light which I assume was original to the trailer: I swapped mine to LED HUMVEE replacement lights that were listed as 12V lights, they were made by Hecasa. Time will tell how these perform, but so far so good. When I bought my trailer

The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is a versatile and innovative storage solution designed specifically for the SylvanSport GO. With its durable construction, ample storage space, and thoughtful design features, this hanging organizer aims to streamline the packing process and keep your gear organized during your travels. In this review, we’ll delve into the features and benefits of the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your outdoor adventures. Mr. Stow-it-All Design and Construction The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is built with durability in mind. Made from rugged nylon fabric, it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The reinforced stitching and sturdy zippers add to its overall durability, ensuring that it will last for years of rugged adventures. The organizer features multiple compartments that allow you to easily store and access your belongings. While it’s designed to hang on the back wall of the GO, you could also use the included carabiner clips to hang it in a variety of locations, such as inside a tent, RV, or even on a tree branch. Storage Capacity One of the standout features of the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is its generous storage capacity. The multiple pockets and compartments provide ample space to store a wide range of gear, from clothes and toiletries to camping essentials and electronics. The various-sized compartments allow for efficient organization, enabling you to easily separate and locate your belongings. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend camping trip or a long-term adventure, this hanging organizer ensures that you have enough space to pack everything you need without compromising on organization. Versatility and Accessibility The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer excels in its versatility and accessibility. It can be used to store books or maps to read, water bottles, flashlights, books, cooking gear, hiking equipment, or several other items. The thoughtful design features pockets and velcro closures, making it easy to see and access your items quickly. Portability When it comes to portability, the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer can be rolled up and stored in the storage pod of your trailer. You could also easily store it in your vehicle. Durability The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer is well-build to last several years. The high-quality nylon fabric and reinforced stitching contribute to its overall durability. We got ours used with our GO trailer, and it has still held up over the years with no issues. SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Price The MR STOW-IT-ALL organizer currently has an MRSP of $159.95.You can purchase the SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL directly on SylvanSport’s product page. Conclusion The SylvanSport MR STOW-IT-ALL Hanging Organizer has a durable construction, ample storage capacity, and thoughtful design features make it a valuable asset on any adventure. While we’ve typically used ours only for multi-night stays, this organizer ensures that your gear stays organized and easily accessible. If you’re looking for a storage solution while camping with your GO, the MR STOW-IT-ALL is certainly worth considering.

Embarking on outdoor adventures is a thrilling way to explore the world around us. For those seeking versatility, durability, and innovation in their camping experience, the SylvanSport Go trailer is a remarkable choice. Designed to blend the convenience of a camper and the utility of a gear-hauling trailer, the SylvanSport Go offers a unique camping experience. However, buying a brand-new trailer isn’t always feasible for everyone. Used options can be far more budget friendly. Fortunately, there are platforms like Listhopper and other online classifieds to find used SylvanSport Go trailers, ensuring you can still fulfill your wanderlust without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore how you can utilize these platforms to find the perfect used SylvanSport Go trailer for your adventures. We’ll also cover what you can expect to pay when buying a used SylvanSpoprt Go trailer. Where to Find Used SylvanSport GO Trailers Listhopper The used SylvanSport GO we purchased was on Craigslist for a city in Oregon, but I wasn’t searching on Craigslist when we found it. I used Listhopper which is similar to Indeed.com which pulls job listings from several different websites, but for classifieds. How to Use Listhopper Listhopper is free and you simply need to enter what you’re searching for. By default however, the search is set to “Craiglist”, so be sure to select the “Search All” option all the way to the right, or which ever classifieds you want to search. You can also use the “Filter Cities” to refine the search to your area. RV Trader The next site I’ve found the most SylvanSport GO’s listed is RV Trader. IRV Trader: RV Trader specializes in connecting buyers and sellers of new and used RVs, making it a valuable resource for finding pre-owned SylvanSport Go trailers. Its advanced search options allow you to narrow down listings based on various criteria. More SylvanSport for Sale Online Attend RV shows and dealer auctions: In addition to online platforms, attending RV shows and dealer auctions can provide an opportunity to find used SylvanSport Go trailers. These events often showcase a variety of recreational vehicles, including pre-owned models. Participating in such events allows you to physically inspect the trailers, ask questions, and potentially negotiate the price directly with sellers. SylvanSport In-Person RV Events Occassionally SylvanSport GO trailers might be featured at RV events. Attending RV shows can be an excellent opportunity to find great deals on a wide range of recreational vehicles, including the SylvanSport Go trailers. These shows bring together multiple dealers and sellers in one location, creating a competitive environment that can lead to attractive pricing and special offers. How Much Are Used SylvanSport GO Camping Trailers? We bought our SylvanSport GO used for $3800, I’ve seen one slightly lower at $3500 once. However, on average, I’ve seen many for sale between $5000-7500. New ones with several accessories are often listed for $10K or higher. A few factors will go into the value of SylvanSport GO: Here’s a couple posts I came across at the time of publishing: Conclusion Embarking on adventures with a SylvanSport Go trailer opens up a world of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts. While purchasing a brand-new trailer may not always fit within your budget, platforms like Listhopper and other online marketplaces offer a practical and convenient way to find used SylvanSport Go trailers. By utilizing these platforms and exploring local events, you can discover the perfect trailer that meets your needs, allowing you to embark on thrilling adventures while making the most of your resources. So, go ahead and unleash your wanderlust – the open road awaits! Looking for more information on the SylvanSport GO trailer? Be sure check out our SylvanSport GO Review.

The SylvanSport Go is a revolutionary pop-up camper that combines the convenience of a compact trailer with the functionality of a comfortable living space. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor adventure scene, setting up your SylvanSport Go camping tent can be a breeze with the right knowledge and a few helpful tips. The entire setup should take about 10-15 minutes. It’s been said if it takes you longer than this, you’re doing something wrong. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of setting up your camping tent on the SylvanSport Go, ensuring a stress-free camping experience. Note: I’ll be adding pictures to this post over the next couple of days and may split this into multiple posts to improve page download speed.. How to Raise the SylvanSport GO Tent Pod How to Setup the SylvanSport GO Tent How to Setup the Inside of the SylvanSport GO Tent How to Pack Up the SylvanSport GO Tent ● Follow the steps in reverse order to pack up the GO. Conclusion Setting up your camping tent on the SylvanSport Go can be a straightforward and enjoyable experience when following these step-by-step instructions. Remember to take your time and pay attention to details such as stake placement, tent tension, and guy line adjustment to ensure a secure and comfortable camping experience. The SylvanSport Go’s innovative design and user-friendly features make it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking convenience and flexibility during their camping adventures. So, gather your gear, embrace the great outdoors, and embark on unforgettable camping experiences with your SylvanSport Go. Happy camping!

Towing the SylvanSport GO can be a fun and exciting way to explore the great outdoors. However, if you’ve never towed anything before, it can also be a bit daunting. Especially backing up. This beginner’s guide will provide you with all the basic information you need to tow the SylvanSport GO safely and confidently. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to towing the SylvanSport GO like a pro. Remember to take it slow, be cautious, and have fun exploring the great outdoors! If you haven’t already, be sure to check out our Review of the SylvanSport GO camping trailer. Also, be sure to review the Operation Manual from SylvanSport that came with your GO trailer. If you don’t have the manual, a copy can be purchased directly from SylvanSport.

When it comes to trailers, versatility can make all difference. Whether you’re hauling camping gear, bikes, other equipment, or go camping, the right trailer can make the trip smoother and more enjoyable. And when it comes to versatility and convenience, few trailers can match the SylvanSport Go. We tend to get quite a few reactions from our trailer, not just because of it’s unique design, but also because of how we use it. The SylvanSport Go is a lightweight, compact trailer that can be towed by most vehicles. It weighs only 840 pounds, which makes it easy to maneuver. The trailer’s unique design allows it to be used for a wide range of activities, from camping and kayaking to hauling appliances and furniture. What Can You Haul with a SylvanSport Go? How About a 20 Ton Log Splitter?!?! With it’s tilt function, the SylvanSport Go is an excellent choice for hauling dirt bikes, ATV’s, or riding lawnmowers. I’ve used ours to haul a riding lawnmower and now I can add an old 20-ton log splitter to the list. My neighbor who recently moved across the state was given an older log splitter by his dad who had upgraded. When my neighbor moved, he offered to give the log splitter to me. We don’t have much use for the splitter at our house, but we do use a wood-burning stove at our cabin fairly often. So once the weather through the mountain pass improved, I wanted to get it moved. That same neighbor is still borrowing my enclosed cargo trailer, so I decided I’d use the SylvanSport Go. While the log splitter is designed to be towed behind a vehicle, I didn’t trust towing it on the highway for the distance I had to go. I had to replace one tire on the log splitter because it had a split, and the remaining tire didn’t look much better, although the bead at least was continuing to hold air. Loading the Log Splitter onto the SylvanSport Go I was able to load the splitter onto the trailer myself, but it did take some time – and probably wasn’t the best of ideas. I used the tilt function of the trailer and pushed the splitter up to it backwards. With the use of tie down straps, I slowly was able to get the splitter winched up onto the trailer while also using wheel chocks along the way. Once enough of the weight was near the axle of the SylvanSport Go, I was able to slowly tilt the trailer back to it’s normal position. Scrap Wood Shipping Crate for the Log Splitter With the log splitter being a fairly large footprint in the SylvanSport Go, I didn’t want to take any chances of having tie down straps loosen up while I was driving. So, I opted to build a make shift shipping crate (or containment) out of scrap wood to make sure it wouldn’t move at all while I was hauling it over 100 miles to our cabin. Here’s some photos of my “shipping crate”. Various pieces were wedged into the structure of the trailer to prevent it from moving. Summary One of the things that makes the SylvanSport Go trailer so versatile is its ability to be customized for specific hauling needs. The trailer can be configured with a range of accessories, including bike racks, cargo boxes. You can also remove the upper section that stores the tent if you need to hauler taller items such as a refrigerator. Be sure to check out my full review of the SylvanSport Go.