Tralette

The Tralette Division of the Peninsular Metal Products Co. in Detroit Michigan built a single wheel and a two wheel version of these trailers. The two wheeled version was built for the back end of a motorcycle, while the single wheel was built for the back of a car. On the single wheel version, they engineered a way around one of the key elements that make these trailers so functional, the swivel wheel. While they still only have one wheel, the wheel isn't a caster wheel. In other words the wheel doesn't turn the trailer, a complex system incorporated into the hitch makes this assembly very different from the others. At the Big 3 autoswap in 2006, I met a guy who had pictures of another of these trailers that he had owned. He said he had documentation that showed the little hatches front and rear were for air circulation for hunting dogs. He claimed the literature showed the dogs in the trailer and referred to the hatches being for them. I tried my best, but he wasn't interested in sharing. If you have any info, literature or pictures of any other Tralette trailers drop a line and tell me more.

Vintage literature

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(This is an Allstate Frame with a Tralette body.) - sending 6 pictures of a tralette trailer we have had for 15+yrs. Any info on what we have would be appreciated. We have also have the license plate bracket and complete tail lite and the T handle which is not in the pictures. Thank You, Bill Whitlow

Found this on Ebay: Rare 1934 "Tralette" Single wheel trailer MFG: Peninsular Motors, Detroit MI - Item Specifics Condition: 1934 Single wheel trailer: Tralette camping trailer Peninsular Motors. This trailer is so rare that there is not much informaion available on the internet. Here is the only information source that I could find on-line: http://www.singlewheel.com/Auto/TraletteFR.htm Check out these pictures of the one that I am offering. I have restored the chassis, floor, wheel and all moving parts. It is 100% functional. I have elected to not paint it as the body will need to be restored by a professional. The body has obvious advanced rust but is still very thick and will restore nicely.

I have a Tralette, good overall condition plus the 35 Chevrolet Standard that pulled it. Thought you would like to know about it.............Jack

I just bought this and was interested in some more information on this. Thank you Travis Cottom

Found this on E-bay:You are viewing a very rare one wheel 1936 PeninsularTralette camp trailer that sleeps two. It is one of only two known. It weighs approximately 275 lbs. but carries 750-+. It is currently in a museum so the exact length is not immediately available. It does have a pull out bed that makes it over 7'+-. The back opens up wide to allow the extension pull out. It has brass vent doors, water proof and dust proof, stands alone, tows excellent, leans the way of the towing vehicle. Backing up is a breeze - it goes the way of the car. The MOTORIST AMAZED AT NEW ONE WHEEL ad I believe you can enlarge and read, but as it states, it has beautiful lines and finish and harmonizes with finest streamlined cars. Attractively styled, has smoth running balance 'unknown in ordinary tailers'. Locks, stands alone, 61 cubic feet inside space. Carries luggage, duffle, merchandise - This is ideal for any antique, classic, Hot, Street, Rat Rod owner to go on those longer tours and have lots of fun. It's a wonderful addition to any collection of fine automobiles! The Peninsular is small enough that it can be carried in the back of a pick up. The trim you see in the picture is stamped in the metal and highlighted with black paint. The ad in the picture is from the May, 1936 issue of Colliers Magazine. The trailer was built in 1936 by the Peninsular Metal Products Corporation of Detroit, Michigan.

Found this on E-bay: Antique 1 wheel trailer very rare. Antique 1 wheel trailer very rare. This is a one wheeled trailer built in Detroit in the mid 1930's. This has a stamped steel body with a cast frame. The one wheel is on a swing arm with semi elliptic springs. I have heard of one other in a museum but have not but have not been able to verify. I bought this in 1985 in Topinabee and was told it belonged to Brace Beamer of Lone Ranger fame. It came from the Silver Beach Resort that he owned. The literature proves it's authenticity. The fountain is on Bell Isle. I used it behind a street rod in the 90's. If anyone contacts me with verified knowledge of another one I will share the info. Reproducing this may be a good business idea. Because of the uniqueness I will not give a buy it now price.

Submitted by Mark F.

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