Thank you Dave. I think I am breaking new ground in some areas. The wheels are actually 'cart' wheels purchased from Northern Tool, but unlike most cart wheels that are solid rubber, these are bicycle style tires with tubes. They are huge hubs that each hold 180 lbs, which is more than sufficient for me (total of 360 lbs). After emailing NT, they do not support using these on the highway, so I will be a guinea pig when it comes to this. I will do a lot of testing with it before I put anything of real value on it, or take it on any long trip. However, several people have used these for horse buggies, and they say these wheels are very well made and have reported no problems. The only real concern I can think of will be the bearings. They will require constant monitoring, and lubrication. But for the trade off on weight and cost, it will be worth it to me. Also, if a wheel breaks, they are cheap to replace. If these do end up working, I plan on always keeping an extra set at home, and caring an extra wheel and grease on long trips.Cool project Texas. Where did you source your wheels from? I agree with your thoughts about not needing the larger wheels, yet I would still be concerned about no suspension, but that's just me. I like the simple suspension on the Rack and Roll trailer. (too bad it's WAY too much $$$)
When it comes to suspension, you will find most people that comment that the suspension on their homebuilt trailers do not even activate due to the fact that the suspension is set at 300 lbs. or higher. They say if they just run with a little less pressure in the tires, that acts as their suspension.
The trailer you show in your like is a awesome looking trailer. Yes it is expensive, but I suppose that is because of it's uniqueness, lightness and low rolling resistance. The wheels are very cool. I wish I had the $600 to buy a pair of them. I am sure they are much better wheels than the ones I am using, but then again, I only paid $40 per wheel with tire.
Due to work requiring a lot from me lately, and being out of town so much, it will probably be another month before I can pick back up on the project. I am very excited about it and hate the fact that I do not have more time to work on it right now. Designing and building this trailer is so much more fun than just buying a trailer (for any price) that I know I am not going to be happy with anyway. Also, there will be a lot of personal satisfaction when it is finally done.
Texas