The H.U.T. (Hammockers' Utility Trailer) got it's first field test last night.
There were some learnings of course, but all in all, it did great.
The unique element to the H.U.T. is the repositionable armatures. In the lower position, the arms form crossbars for a kayak (or anything else) rack. In the raised position, they project out at 45* from each corner to hold a hammock on each side.
As crossbars, you could easily carry eight kayaks either in cradles or on the bars. As hanger arms, they also keep the tarp up. The tennis balls on the tips are so the tarp doesn't rub on the steel. And they keep the hammocks out far enough so you hang over the ground not over the steel racks of the trailer. (Don't hang over anything you're not willing to fall on.)
What's not done...
I've learned that stabilizer legs are essential. And must now be added.
The tarp may have to be custom made. Also, I'm toying with an idea that came from EVAC John's extendable arms design. I'm thinking of arm extensions that would have attachment points for the corners of the tarp. That would eliminate most, if not all, of the guy lines.
Olddog posted about a website that does tiny travel trailers. They have some interesting designs for trailerable kitchens. That gave me some ideas for a simple pull-out or swing-out kitchen that would come off the back. Gumbo likes her kitchen space so something is going to happen there.
Anyway, here it is:
DSCF1360[1].jpg
Pulling up to camp.
DSCF1357[1].jpg
The racks in the middle are the repositionable arms.
DSCF1356[1].jpg
These lift out. Notice the crossbar is at 45*.
DSCF1355[1].jpg
Arm slides in where the ball is.
The ball goes on the tip.
DSCF1351[1].jpg
An eyebolt goes in each arm.
DSCF1347[1].jpg
Arms are in place. Tarp is on top.
DSCF1331[1].jpg
Hammocks on. Chairs and table up.
DSCF1336[1].jpg
Hammock unclipped and moved to one side.
DSCF1340[1].jpg
View from The H.U.T.
DSCF1345[1].jpg
The H.U.T. in porch mode.
Bookmarks