CDN M101 Trailer

[rob love]

The payload on the earlier 1/4 ton trailers was very ilmited due to the use of truck springs (Jeep) used on the trailer instead of proper trailer springs. Truck springs will not hold a load like the way properly designed trailer springs will. The M101Cdn2 (Iltis trailer) has trailer springs, so in that regard are superior to the earlier trailers which used truck components, likely for commonality. The commonality would reduce the numebr of spare parts required to be carried in the supply system.

The trailer ratings are cross country. They ussualy can be increased 50% to 100% for highway travel. I would suggest that in the case of the M101Cdn2, the real limiting factor for the trailer is the smallish size. The springs are, if memory serves, rated for 3,000 pounds, the michelin tires will handle 8,000 pounds. The hitch would likely be good for 30,000.

Perhaps the weak point is those little tiny wheel bearings, which are often neglected. They need regular (annual) repacking.

Of course, as with any trailer, you have to ensure sufficient toungue weight, or you will observe the trailer bouncing back and forth in the next lanes in your rear view mirror.

[rob love]

Hey Stuart, it looks like we agree on something Iltis related for once. The M101Cdn2 is an exceptionallywell built little trailer. The earlier pattern 1/4 ton trailers were heavy enough, the the M101Cdn2 takes robust to a new level. Solid steel handles, 1/8 plate re-inforcing on the corners, and interior tie downs, some real though went in to them. The bearings would be heavy enough if you were just talking 500 pounds load and repacking them annually, but in the real world we overload the trailer and repack at a far less frequent interval.

The original Iltis tires were also used later on the CT50D aircraft mules in CF service. The tires had great weight capacity and did not collect FOD like a normal tire. But lets face it, any 25 year old tire is not going to give you the performace you might like, especially at high speed.

I use my M101Cdn2 to transport firearms and stuff to the Calgary gun show each year. I would not want to even guess how much weight I have in there, but I can assure you it is well over the 500 pounds. We drop it in the show and set it up as a table bu throwing a table cloth over it. When the show is over, we load it up and push it out, thus beating the traffic of hundreds of vendors coming in 20 or so at a time. But as mentioned, the wheel bearings are a continual problem. I have not had a failure yet, but sure have come close a couple times.

[Duane Leiker]

Actually, I'm planning on the 2019 cross country trip already. Just want to know various trailers/equipment I may need. Appreciate the info guys. Thanks you.

[maple_leaf_eh]

In full agreement with Rob that the trailer issued for the Iltis is a much better design than almost any other recent CF trailer.

I would add that the issue Iltis tire, which would have been used on the appropriate trailer, is quite narrow. Stuart and I corresponded a while ago, and settled on a modern Wrangler all-season tire that is a reasonably close facsimile.

Having driven long distances in M38A1s (when I wore smaller diameter clothing), I would suggest repacking the seat cushion would be a high priority before undertaking any long road moves. The seat is not adjustable, as issued. The steering wheel is fixed, as are the pedals. So any ergonomic comforts have to be within the spirit of the rules, or you'll be crippled by Day 3. Since most drivers raised after WW2 are taller and I have to hunch somewhat to see under the top bar of most 1/4 Truck windshields, so thinning the cushion would be something else to consider.

[rob love]

Originally Posted by maple_leaf_eh

Having driven long distances in M38A1s (when I wore smaller diameter clothing), I would suggest repacking the seat cushion would be a high priority before undertaking any long road moves. The seat is not adjustable, as issued. The steering wheel is fixed, as are the pedals. So any ergonomic comforts have to be within the spirit of the rules, or you'll be crippled by Day 3. Since most drivers raised after WW2 are taller and I have to hunch somewhat to see under the top bar of most 1/4 Truck windshields, so thinning the cushion would be something else to consider.

Blasphemy. Horsehair cushions or nothing. What next...V6?