Building a Trailer

[AxeMan]

I needed a new utility trailer so after looking around a bit, I decided to build one.  I wanted a sturdy enough trailer to haul my quad and gear but also wanted it no so big that I couldn't pull it with the quad on some easier going trails.  It will come in handy getting our wall tents, stoves, etc. into camp.  I also designed it to be a good general use utility trailer big enough to haul full sheets of plywood or drywall inside the deck.

Inside deck dimensions are 49" x 8'-10".  Frame is 2 x 2 .125" wall square tubing with 2" angle iron hitch supports.  I put a 12" railing on it with a provision for a tailgate.  Railing is 1" square tubing.
I went with wider tires for extra flotation on softer trails.  I welded on lots of tie down anchors as well.  I have the wood decking ready to put on next, then the wiring and lighting. I have some nice robust led lights for it.   The hard part is done.  A couple more evenings in the garage and I should be done.

Here it is so far.  So far so good.  This one strong little trailer. I plan to put side panels on it to keep the mud out.  The end gate will just be a wooden panel that slides in a slot that I made with angle iron.   I will update as I get more done.



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[Paul]

Looks slick Axe can you build me one?

[badback]

Looks good Axeman

[weeman]

Trailer looks real good. I can tell by the photos that you took your time fabricating the frame.
Good choice of a neutral color. Good Luck on your hunting trip this year.

[Hunter Trav]

Wow, very nice work on that trailer, should get a lot of years out of that one for sure!!!   

[walleyes]

Sweet.. As a fellow do it youselfer I can really apreceate something like this. I have been thinking of tackling the same thing in the next couple eyears..

Thx for sharing axe its awesome.

[AxeMan]

Looks slick Axe can you build me one?

Paul, I'll make you a deal.  I will build you a trailer if you build me an ice fishing shack......

[AxeMan]

Trailer Update:

Here are some pics of the trailer lighting and wiring.  Kind of went over-kill on the wiring job but it will be reliable.
Also a pic of the deck boards installed.  They are sealed up for water and rot protection with several coats of marine spar varnish.  The deck will have a 5/8" rubber mat as the final layer.

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[AxeMan]

Trailer is finally done!

I got the 1/2" plywood side panels painted up and installed.  They worked out quite well and are pretty sturdy.
Installed the 5/8" rubber mat on the deck.  This was a killer find at Princess Auto and on sale just in time.  The deck is well protected and slip free and durable now.
Made up some safety chain hangers.  These will come in handy when I am towing the trailer with the quad.
Tailgate is made up.  I just have to mount the license plate and light.   


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[Sonny]

Looks great...job well done..

[Paul]

Good job axe nice looking trailer

[weeman]

Looks real good Axeman. Tire cover is being built with -40 C vinyl and I hope it is done this week.

[Hunter Trav]

Very nice job man, that thing looks pro!!!   

[Springer]

Thats a great inspiration axeman !! I plan on building a bigger trailer this winter as well. Looks like you do meticulous work, very professional.

[Weste]

Wow!  That's awesome.  Great job.

[Tredeb]

Very nice work. 

It may not aply to you, but for anyone building a trailer, many new snowmobiles are more than 4 ft wide. If you have a sled, you may want to widen that design even if you dont initially plan on using it for a sled.  Its not that much more width to keep your options open.

Again, nice job.

[ishootbambi]

looking good axe.  let me offer you some advice.....that shiny new axle may need some adjustment.  brand new axles are not always straight out of the factory, and when they are out they can shred the tires off pretty quick.  if you have an independant alignment shop close by, it would be worth it to have it measured.  that can only be done right with the axle mounted in its final place on the trailer.  a decent shop would charge you very little if it is ok, and if not, you save the tires.  they will also ensure that the tires are tracking squarely to the trailer.  i can tell by the pics that you put it together right, but the stub shafts are not always perfect. 

not everyone knows this stuff until its too late.  im not trying to sound smarter than you....just pointing out things that i learned when it was my job.

dale