As an RV owner, finding a good spot to store your generator can be a challenge. I recently installed a Stromberg Carlson CC-255 trailer tray (https://amzn.to/44wVJsW) on my cargo trailer to securely hold my Champion 4500-watt generator (https://amzn.to/449O5o6). In this blog post, I’ll take you through the full installation process and my thoughts after completing this upgrade.
Overview of the Installation
The Stromberg Carlson trailer tray bolts onto the front tongue of the trailer, providing a platform to mount your generator on. It took me about 3 hours total to fully install it.
The key steps included:
– Removing the propane tank cover and existing hitch
– Attaching the lower support brackets to the trailer frame
– Bolting on the vertical supports and main tray platform
– Marking and drilling holes to mount the tray to the frame
– Adding an additional support bracket for stability
– Securing the generator with ratchet straps
– Adding a protective cover
I’ll go through each step in more detail below. While the instructions weren’t great, the overall installation process is straightforward if you’re comfortable using basic tools and drilling holes.
Parts and Tools Needed
The Stromberg Carlson package includes all the tubular supports, mounting plates, bolts, and nuts needed. You’ll need to supply the tools:
– Socket wrenches
– Adjustable wrench
– Drill
– Assorted drill bits up to 3⁄8”
– Tape measure
– Marker/pen
– Some extra helping hands also come in handy for this install.
Mounting the Lower Brackets
I started by removing the propane tank cover and relocating any brackets or fasteners that may interfere with the installation.
The lower support brackets bolt onto the bottom of the trailer frame using the included carriage bolts. This was the easiest part – just slide the bolts into the frame channel and secure the brackets.
Attaching the Main Tray Supports
Next, I slid the two vertical supports into the lower brackets and hand-tightened the bolts to hold them in place.
Measuring for proper spacing, I positioned the main tray platform and centered it across the width of the trailer tongue.
The Dreaded Drilling
Here’s where the real work came in – marking and drilling the holes to mount the tray platform to the trailer frame.
I’ll be honest, this was a slow and tedious process without a drill press. The round tube allowed everything to twist and flex while drilling. I put a piece of scrap cardboard underneath to catch the shavings. Starting with a smaller pilot hole helped guide the larger 3⁄8” bit.
My arms and hands were tired after drilling 8 holes, but finally got it mounted securely. Take your time and use clamps or a vice to hold the tubes from moving.
Adding Extra Support
With the main platform mounted, I decided to add the front support bracket for a little extra stability. This was a simple bolt-on procedure and really helped stiffen up the Trailer Tray. I considered skipping this step of the installation, but I’m quite glad that I added it on after all.
Tip: Use the included set screws to hold the tray steady when drilling the top holes.
Securing and Protecting the Generator
With the heavy lifting done, I used ratchet straps to hold the generator (https://amzn.to/449O5o6) in place on the new tray. The strap hooks nicely into holes on the Trailer Tray.
I also added a Champion weatherproof cover (https://amzn.to/3rD4Dqq) to protect the generator from sun and rain. The cover cinches down tight with a drawstring and has zippered flaps for easy access. I don’t know how this will hold up to the wind and sun, but the reviews on Amazon sound promising!
Final Impressions
Overall, I’m impressed with the quality of the Stromberg Carlson trailer tray (https://amzn.to/44wVJsW). It’s extremely sturdy with no bounce or rattle. The powder-coated steel seems very durable, though I’m sure it will get scratched and chipped over time, especially being on the front of the trailer.
Drilling the mounting holes was laborious, but a necessary evil of the installation. The end result is a rock-solid generator platform that should serve me well for many years to come.
For anyone looking to add generator storage on their trailer, I definitely recommend the CC-255 (https://amzn.to/44wVJsW). Just be ready for some challenging metal drilling. Adding this tray will make your generator more secure and easier to access.