Buying a Trailer to Haul Equipment, 10 Things to Look For

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Had a question from Lonnie who is in need of a trailer to haul his new tractor. He asked if I could provide a list of what to look for when purchasing a trailer to haul equipment. I came up with 10 things to look for when buying a trailer to haul your tractor.
First, you need to look at your truck. Is it big enough for the amount of weight you're looking to tow with it? I've seen way too many 1/2 ton trucks and Suburbans asked to do more that what they're rated for.
Next look at the axle capacity on the trailer and remember that you have to subtract the weight of the trailer from the combined axle rating. Also, most manufacturers don't include the weight of the front end loader with the tractor in the spec sheet. If you're hauling attachments, what do they weigh? So, calculate the total weight of the tractor, loader, attachments, and anything else you'll be hauling and add in the trailer weight and make sure the axle capacity exceeds that number.
Third, get brakes. The cheaper trailers don't have brakes and require the brakes of the towing vehicle to stop everything and that can be a problem. The better trailers will have a set of brakes on one axle.
The next two considerations go together. Make sure you get a trailer that's long enough, and tied in with that, how do the ramps work?
I've seen folks get trailers that were too short, and too long. If you're used to towing items, a 20' trailer may be no big deal to maneuver, but if you're never hauled anything, you'll be amazed at how tough it is to get around. You want it to be just long enough for your needs, but not too long.
Some states allow implements to hang off the back, but if you have fold-up ramps, that may not work. If you were planning on a shorter trailer and letting your bush hog, for example, hang off the back a couple of feet, the fold up ramps may prevent that, so slide-in ramps may be a better option. If you get slide in ramps, make sure they're long enough. 4' ramps make that driving up on the trailer pretty abrupt, 5' ramps are better. A dovetail, or a slant at the back of the trailer, is also a nice feature to make loading the trailer easier and safer.
Next, does the trailer have a spare tire? Many of the cheaper trailers don't have one and don't have anywhere to mount one. It's a big hassle to carry the spare for your trailer in the back of the truck or to have to load and unload each time.
If I were buying a trailer I'd get a good jack. Cheaper jacks you have to crank from the top to the bottom of their range every time you hook up. A jack with an extendable spring-loaded leg and a pin to hold it is a much better choice.
Finally, two options I'd get with a trailer are 9) a winch and 10) d-rings to secure the load to. A winch will help you save hauling bills even when the tractor won't move and d-rings make the chaining or booming process much easier.
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30 июн 2021

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Комментарии : 121

@christopherbrosz5003 3 года назад

If you are new to hauling equipment make sure you get chains and load binders and learn how to properly chain down your equipment.

@sethavants4110 2 года назад

I'd add you need to study what you're trying to tie down before hand so you have a good idea what you need to bring, older tractors don't have good tie down points for chains and you may need D-ring or other means to get it secured, I spent an hour crawling around the trailer and tractor trying to figure out what was going to be the best way to secure it, the first time I moved my tractor.

@douglaspost5097 Год назад

Another thing to be aware of is the combination weights. I got stopped by the N.Y. DOT one time and the guy asked what the GVWR on the trailer was. I told him 14,000lbs. The GVWR of my Ford F350 is 11300. He told me I'm 700lbs away from needing a class A license ( trailer truck) since the max combined weight on a class D license (passenger car, light pick up) is 26,000lbs. They go by the weight ratings on the rating tags, not what you're hauling at the moment at least here in N.Y.. If I had a trailer with a 14800lb GVWR, he told me I could get a ticket for driving out of class, even if I was empty! Be aware!

@berk3695 3 года назад

Another thing to consider is the jack location. Some are too forward on the tongue and you cant drop your tailgate.

@jerrylittle8922 3 года назад

I have that issue with my trailor.

@TheSailingwoodworker 2 года назад

It is the standard weld on tongue that has the hole for the jack in it that seems to be the issue. Bad design. Mine would clear with another half inch and that is with one of the longer type hitches.

@nhhandyman 2 года назад

When I needed a pintel setup - it came with a much longer 2" (solid) hitch bar. This ended up pushing the trailer out enough where the jack for all my trailers is out beyond the tailgate. It didn't take much - maybe 3" more and because the hitch is solid - I'm not worried about loosing any integrity

@brianhillis3701 3 года назад

The width between wheels is important too. Getting a bigger tractor or wide implement past the wheels is often ignored until the oops happens.

@MikeBrown-ii3pt 3 года назад

D.O.T. requires trailers over 3500 G.V.W. to have brakes on at least 1 axle. Personally, I don't like aluminum trailers or wood trailer floors. Aluminum tends to fatigue and crack much faster than steel. When empty, lighter trailers also bounce a lot more than heavier ones (for obvious reasons) which also causes stress cracks. Drive over or removable fenders are also a good idea although, they obviously won't make a difference on trailers with side rails. L.E.D. lights, heavy duty wiring and bearing buddies are also wise choices. Axle placement is also critical as to how the trailer takes turns going forward or backing. The closer they are to the front, the tighter it will turn. However, it'll also run over curbs, or through ditches easier as well as getting "lost" in the mirrors easier when backing. I prefer tandem trailers to have the axles about 2/3 of the way back. I grew up pulling all kinds of trailers and wagons on a small farm in Ohio and now, I pull semi trailers all over the country. Last spring, I ordered a trailer built to my specs from a local shop. It's an ALL steel, low profile 22' flat + 2' dove with tandem 7k brake axles, a 12k winch and everything that I mentioned. The trailer weighs about 3200# and has a 14k G.V.W. It hauls everything from my drag car to my tractors (except my big one). Yes, it's heavy but, it's exactly what I wanted. Oh, I almost forgot...I don't know about the newer ones because I haven't looked at one in quite a while but, when those tilt trailers first hit the market, they would lift the front axle off the ground when the bed was raised. Their pivot point was actually where the tongue attached to the rest of the trailer frame. That placed a lot of extra tongue weight on the tow vehicle. A friend of mine actually had one bend the draw bar of his hitch.

@stevecorson3533 3 года назад

You also need to look at the vehicle max tongue weight as well as max tow weight. Here is my calculations for my situation. Tractor is a MF 1742 = 3600lbs. Loader = 1000lbs Bush hog = 900 lbs 20' trailer with (2) 5000lbs axles = 2600 lbs. (This trailer has jacks on the back to stabilize the trailer during loading, which now I will never own an equipment trailer without them. $70 option and well worth it.) Total tow weight = 8100lbs. Chevy 1500 truck. Max tow weight = 9600 lbs (with my truck options), but only 600 lb max tongue weight without a load distributing hitch. With a load distributing hitch max tongue weight goes up to 1100 lbs. This info is in the truck owners manual. I bought a Reese load distributing hitch with the sway bars on the side, (sorry, don't have the model number) I love it. Towing the tractor with this setup rides better than my 8ft utility trailer with a 1000lb load. Don't forget to set the truck in trailer mode (button on the shift lever in my truck). This changes the shift pattern of the transmission and really works well with a heavy trailer.

@curtwhite876 3 года назад

Great information, as always. You must make sure your set-up is appropriate for your equipment and the tow vehicle to ensure you're safe. I bought an 18 foot car hauler to haul my tractor. If I had it to do over again, I would buy a dump trailer. Many of them include ramps for loading equipment and they have d-rings for tying things down. Plus you have the capability to haul material to or from a job site and dump it where you want to instead of having to scoop material out of a truck bed.

@bobd. 3 года назад

Most dump trailers have higher loading heights. I have a 12k dump trailer and a 20 foot tilt bed. Though I have put my bobcat in the dump trailer it's way more trouble than the flat bed and the pucker factor is higher too.

@DougAlesUSA 3 года назад

I considered a dump trailer vs car hauler. In the end, the dump trailer was double the cost. I decided I would rent one when I need a dump trailer.

@jerrysalgat3406 3 года назад

Excellent information! This has been a subject that needed to be reviewed. I see a lot of people using a trailer but not having anything right.

@fhuber7507 3 года назад

Longer trailers are easier to back up. Cut plywood to go on the ramps. Bridging the holes in those crude ramps really helps. I use 2 layers of 1/2 inch plywood. I have a winch mounted on a 2 inch hitch "stinger" and receivers front and rear of my truck and tractor. It's very useful.

@reynoldscs 3 года назад

All good points! Well said. I like to mount my winch in a tool box to discourage lazy thieves. The receiver is another great option for versatility, very useful!

@sethavants4110 2 года назад

yea I'd rather back up a 16' trailer than a little 8' trailer

@stephengmeiner3264 3 года назад

Make sure that while it may be long enough to fit everything, is that with everything in the right place to be properly balanced. To little tongue weight can give you another pucker factor or worse, an accident.

@TheSailingwoodworker 2 года назад

I was getting ready to comment about this. You might need a deck that is two or four feet longer than you think for correct tongue weight.

@Bob-vb8lc 3 года назад

Thank you Mike for the great tips. Following your list will save me $$ and headaches. I appreciate the info and I will definitely remember them when I shop for my trailer.

@jerrylittle8922 3 года назад

Mike this was one of your best video's when it comes to advice. Even for the experienced haul! 👍🇺🇸

@mdb777exec 3 года назад

Great information Mike. Keep the videos coming. You help us “ Stay on Course” Thank you. Monte

@jacklabloom635 2 года назад

Excellent advice. Thank you for all the information you are passing along to us who are not knowledgeable about tractors, trailers, and implements.

@rogerr1296 3 года назад

Can't tell you how helpful you're channel has been for me Mike. You seem to time these right when I need to see them. Just signed on my life away on a new property and am waiting, along with several other folks, for a tractor. This video is just what I needed to see right now because I will be getting a trailer with my tractor as well. Now, your next video needs to be "how to get a tractor without having to wait" ..lol Thanks.

@earlyriser8998 3 года назад

Excellent list. Watched it twice just to make sure i understood each point as I am about to buy a trailer.

@rodneystewart8958 3 года назад

Whatever size trailer you think you might need add 2 feet and you'll be thankful later

@larrycainjr 3 года назад

Great info, Mike! Thanks!

@johnwesley8327 3 года назад

Lot's of good info. Thanks Mike.

@sofakinggood5829 2 года назад

Thanks Mike

@justindavis1546 3 года назад

How did you know I was researching trailers to haul a tractor? Great timing as this video comes just one day after I started my search.

@jerrylittle8922 3 года назад

Take your time and dont rush into anything like i did years ago. Pay alittle extra and get what you want that works best for what you'll haul.

@davidkarath6549 3 года назад

Very informative....thanks for making this video...very well done !

@patrickcorbett8361 3 года назад

Good information Mike... Thanks pc

@kevinashby3784 3 года назад

Very good advice.

@batterup9457 3 года назад

Excellent. Thank you.

@sethavants4110 2 года назад

I was considering buying a trailer the other day to move my new to me tractor, the more I thought about how often I think I would move it a year and the maintenance for such a heavy duty trailer. I decided renting was a better option for me. The place I rented from charges $72 a day and if rented it for 6 days a year it would take me 13-15 years to pay for that trailer not including yearly tags and maintenance.

@joedoakes8307 Год назад

Trailer axles for mobile homes are rated for 6,000 lbs. each ! Their tires are called 'Trip Tires' and are designed for VERY Limited use !

@chrishuber7704 Год назад

Far most of what Mike says I agree with. This was not one. Glad you pointed this out The brakes on a mobile home axle are different and without modifications are incompatible with typical towing set up. The tires off an actual mobile home are 14.5” diameter rims and will say mobile home use only. They are designed for one trip. You can get “lowboy” tires they are compatible with this set up. Change out the brakes. The low boys are heavy 14 ply, but they are good for regular use. However, this set up generally costs more to set up if starting with mobile home axles. The tires are less common and the bolt on rim assembly is more challenging to properly install and does required more maintenance. Back in the 70’s and even the 80’s these were more economical. Especially if you opted not to use the brakes. Nowadays they are not. And some jurisdictions prohibit the use of the mobile home tires and can lead to unwanted attention from your local Buford T. Justice

@terrycastor8299 3 года назад

Thank you for this video, Mike. Very timely for myself as I too just purchased a tractor. One of those blue ones you used to sell.🤪

@reynoldscs 3 года назад

Great vidya! (Yes that is a Zip Ties and Bias plies shout out). First time on your channel, sales add wasn't over the top. I appreciated the top 10, all great points!

@ghorn3136 2 года назад

When my second-hand trailer need a new floor…instead of using 2x8 boards… I went to my steel bldg supply and used 2x8 C-purlins. I welded mine into position…but they can be bolted just like wood as well…and they are just as permanent as the rest of the steel on that trailer. I really like WD40. I also use their addt’l products…but I would not use aerosol greases in external locations such as demonstrated in this particular video because it will get all-over clothing and attract huge amounts of road-dirt and dust and make a huge mess. Ordinary WD40 is less pervasive and will lubricate for short-term use and not remain to get on clothing and attract dust….just a personal observation. I would ADD a comment on trailer-shopping: Stands. Jack-stands. When loading a tractor onto a flatbed trailer…the rear of that trailer is going to be pushed DOWN and that will RAISE the front end…straining the hitch and tow-vehicle. Jack-stands placed beneath the rear trailer frame will prevent that. (It will also allow additional equipment to be loaded when “tilt-bed” trailers are used.) So either carry jack-stands or consider trailers with built-in stands provided. (I added pipe-collars inside-of-which slide telescoping pipe-stands which lock in-place with hitch-pins to the rear of my trailers.) Lastly, consider L.E.D. lighting as a premium on trailers. Vibration and outside storage kills ordinary lamps and sockets on trailer-lighting and L.E.D. lighting is much more durable.

@rongrychuk5559 3 года назад

Fluid film is far better and also food safe for any kids or animals that may be around it.

@donaldpyles2891 3 года назад

I would add a few more things. Make sure that all the wiring is contained within conduit or even better yet right in the tube rails that are the structure of the trailer. Also if you are ordering a trailer ask about LED lights, when I bought mine the total upgrade for all the lights to go to LED was less than $50. Well worth never having to deal with a burnt out bulb or bad light fixture. Great video Mike!

@semco72057 3 года назад

The things you mentioned are important when owning a trailer and I have a trailer which was damaged when I was moving it once and forgot to lift the part which allow you to park or tow a trailer and have to get it fixed. The trailer have been parked where it is now since 2016 and definitely need to be moved. I used the trailer very little and didn't want to spend the money on new boards after the first time having them replaced and would like to put metal on parts of it when I do fix it.

@Cav5419 3 года назад

Great video and informative!

@d.brownjr.4845 2 года назад

My opinion about trailers is this. 1. Having any type of trailer is : You're as big as you are of what you have. It don't matter if you pull a lawnmower or a goose neck. That's how big you are. 2. The longer the trailer, the easier it is to back. Eyes on the sides. 3. The floor in my opinion is a hardwood floor. Pine don't cut it. Torch the floor to preserve it. Just wiping or mopping burt motor oil don't last. 4. A set of ramps is a must . 5. Knowing the proper way to strap or chain things down is a must. No such thing as too much chain or bucks. Or straps. Strap it like you own it. If it come off, your in trouble. If it calls for 2 chains. Put 4. 6. Safety chains is a must. 7. Proper lights with a good ground with reflector tape. 8.Always make sure what brake system you have. From electric to fluid. Always test before you get on the road. No such thing , oh, I forgot. Judge don't play that game. 9.Always check the tongue and grease the tongue. 10. Check for stress or bends from Jack knifing. Make sure you're pulling straight . 11. Tires, always check for dry rot. They can sit a long time between hauls. 12.Check and grease the barrings they do it hot and wear out . 13. Check your axel to see if you have bent it or if it has been bent from heavy hauls. Being on the side of the road isn't a great place to find this out. Taking care of your trailer will in the long run, take care of you. Just my opinion I could be wrong but I seriously doubt it.

@johnos4892 3 года назад

Great info , Thanks.

@jasoncooperpcola 3 года назад

Been very impressed with my PJ 16' trailer.

@stephengmeiner3264 3 года назад

All good points!

@PapaRug.58 Год назад

Glad you put braking capacity #1 As always good 😊 info

@bogan4009 3 года назад

Great video!

@gretaknebel8495 3 года назад

Good information!

@classicrestoration 3 года назад

Good video...I got my trailer with a tractor package but was able to go to the trailer manufacture's website and make a list upgrades I wanted. Had the dealer special order a 12K, 20ft dovetail trailer with 4W, 12" brakes, side crank, adjustable jack, LED lights, HD cast steel hitch and a spare tire, Had to settle for pine decking due to the current lumber clustermess. Otherwise, great trailer and well worth the extra expense.

@neilopfer5687 2 года назад

Solid coverage on a key topic!! Too many people cut corners on buying their trailer so buy a better quality trailer as you point out with adequate weight capacity.

@T_157-40 3 года назад

Good points.

@johne9341 3 года назад

Great video! People who don't know this info will be called idiots when they get into trouble. I have seen so many accidents caused by unsuspecting people that were sold a trailer that is absolutely unable to meet their needs. Do another video on how to secure equipment. I can't believe how many times I see someone hauling with cheep Harbor Freight orange ratchet straps.

@mvmproduction49 3 года назад

Appreciate the info.

@RAM-on8xb 3 года назад

I decided to purchased a 16 foot, 14K max load dump trailer made by Big Tex (14LP). I enjoy the stabilizer bars on the rear on the trailer. It is perfect to haul my Massey Ferguson GC1720TLB and my 4ft box blade. I enjoy having the ability to haul gravel, firewood, and whetever else I need. I decided to go with this trailer so I dont have multiple trailers sitting on my property. Thanks for a great video!

@thetractorden6189 3 года назад

One thing that I have found is the width of the tractor, outside of tire to outside of tire, must fit between the fenders or the rails, unless the fenders can be driven over. I tried to borrow my grandfather’s tractor years back but could not haul it bc it was 2” wider than the rails on the trailer. There was no way to get the tractor between them. Tie Downs Anchors, Tie Downs Anchors, Tie Down Anchors!!! You will need more than you think because everything needs tied down and angles matter. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you choose not to use a tie down because you don’t have an anchor point. Depending on what you are hauling anchor points might need to shift

@hphillips7425 3 года назад

Good advice 👍🏻

@douglaspost5097 Год назад

I bought a 20' Bri-Mar trailer in a panic one time. I noticed the frame was rusted right through on my old one. Since I had several fields that needed to be mowed I needed one right away. The only trailers I could find at the time were 20'ers. I have to curl the bucket under and back the tractor on so the brush hog over hangs the front bar by 3' or so. That puts the tail wheel right next to the trailer jack. I can put the ramps up with very little room to spare this way. Like you said, I can't drive it on because the ramps won't let the mower over hang. Another thing you might want to consider is any other trailering jobs you might want to do. I also haul cars for a friend so to minimise the ramp angle, I use 10' 2x10s so the car doesn't bottom out on the trailer as out comes off the ramps. I have to put blocks under the ramps so they don't break. It's a pain in the neck, but you do what you got to do. I've thought about tilt trailers but here in upstate N.Y., you have to watch that the tires don't have any snow on them so I'm thinking more of a dovetail trailer with 6' ramps to minimise the angle. Anyway, you're spot on with all your recommendations. Thanks for all that you do for us.

@realreviews9207 3 года назад

Mike, I agree with every thing you suggested. I always remember that you get what you pay for. The money is soon forgotten but the quality is long remembered. Please keep the videos coming. Thank You from Mt Home.

@nedtrox5385 3 года назад

The money is soon forgotten but the quality is long remembered. I like that.

@terryk3118 3 года назад

Great video Mike. Wish you'd had it out a couple years ago. Could you do one on the correct way to hook up the safety brake cable?

@larrypalmer2415 3 года назад

Thanks......great information..!!

@jimcooney9019 3 года назад

cool video thanks for sharing

@bearkatljl 3 года назад

Hi Mike I like your channel but, at least in Texas, the 3500lb axles are made for trailers and are not trailer house axles unless someone somewhere is changing the hubs as trailer house wheels attach differently than regular wheels. I'm an ag teacher and we build lots of trailers for ag mechanics projects and if we (my students and I) are building any trailer longer than 16' we put at least 7k axles with brakes on both axles and at least 16" 8 lug wheels and E range tires.

@mrflorida55 3 года назад

Note for my RK24 small tractor was able to rent a u-haul trailer 6x12 with ramp. (trailer has 3710 lbs capacity) Its aluminum and very stable on the road. (pulled with GMC Sierra truck v8) Even had a bush hog as well, had to disconnect it and slide forward but fit ok. Hard to beat the cost.

@davebarnessr.5805 2 года назад

I bought a Big Tex, Tandem axle w/ 7500 Ib axles, electric brakes, all LED lighting with a heavy pressure treated wood bed, Its stout and a good looking trailer. I special ordered mine from the factory and was very surprised at how competitive the price was ., And for the money, it’s hard to buy more trailer. I will probably buy another trailer down the road and it will be a Big Tex as well, Great Vlog!

@bobd. 3 года назад

You mentioned a couple times about letting an attachment like a brush hog 'stick out' the back of a trailer. I don't believe this is a good plan to start with. Nothing should extend past the back of the trailer deck if at all possible. IF it should happen that you are moving something that does then appropriate flagging and other provisions need to be taken but this should be a one off type event not something you plan to do repeatedly. If that were the case then you didn't get a long enough trailer to start with. Trying to save some cash by purchasing a trailer 2 feet shorter than your rig (tractor with attachments) is a bad plan that will bite you in the end, the rear end that is.

@mitchp350 3 года назад

I also had thought of this when Mike mentioned it. But probably more importantly, the #1 mistake made when towing a trailer, is to always avoid excessive weight to the back of the trailer, as it promotes the dreaded trailer whip.

@BillTheTractorMan 3 года назад

Mike! I can solve 90% of the things you mentioned in the video with a simple tip. NEVER buy a trailer from a box store or in a package deal unless you know everything you want and it fits your needs with no settling. Go to a trailer dealership, or 3. Go talk to some experienced salesmen/ saleswomen. I work with a salesman who is experienced with agricultural trailers and works with the manufacturer closely. He doesn't miss crossing a T or dotting an I. He sits down with his customers and goes through even the little details. He is not happy unless you are happy, he has worked for many years to make good relationships with customers so we keep coming back. I suppose that's why I'm on trailer #3 with him, and I have loved each trailer he sold me. I outgrow the trailers as my needs grow.

@klelllawrence6528 2 года назад

Excellent video post. I have 3 trailers, and no way one trailer covers all my needs. Brakes on the trailer would be my first consideration, once you get past the truck capacities.

@danielchambers1958 3 года назад

Very informative Mike . . . can you show trailer pull vs Gooseneck? Pros and cons

@JohnSmith-dj5gf 2 года назад

Good video. Probably the most overlooked aspect of towing is exceeding the GVWR of the tow vehicle. Just because Ford says your F150 is rated to tow 10,000lbs doesn’t mean it can handle 1500lbs of tongue weight. Pile your family in and you’ve reduced the payload that much more.

@ryanklingerman1975 2 года назад

I've got a trailer with slide out ramps. I added Jack's to the back of my trailer. That way when I load and unload I can make sure trailer does not lift back of my truck.

@mitchp350 3 года назад

Putting excessive weight to the rear of the trailer, or letting equipment hang over the back, is a very bad idea. It is the #1 cause of trailer whip, and loss of control. Also the trailer weight can be deducted for the trailers total weight capacity but, remember some of that weight is always put on the towing vehicle. In saying this, I am in no way saying you should skimp on a trailers weight capacity, because you may get away with it. I see far too often, people towing much more than they should be with a vehicle that was never intended to tow that type of load.

@JohnDiMartino 3 года назад

Brakes vary by state, here in NY ,trailers that weigh over 1000 lbs empty and those with a GVWR of 3000lb or more need there own brakes and all brake systems require a working breakaway system. Commercial use of a trailer requires brakes on all axles. Personal use on under a 10000 lb GVWR trailer can have brakes on as low as 50% of the axles. Trailer ramp sides are no place for a lubricant,sorry it’s dangerous and messy to handle ,I understand the pivot area. One overlooked area is towing north of 6000 lbs with a half ton it’s getting popular,most manufacturers require a weight distribution hitch over 5000lbs on a half ton truck , I don’t use one on mine until I’m over 6000 but some trailer tongues aren’t laid out properly for the use of one, if you may occasionally tow 7000 plus which modern half tons can easily do,you’ll want to make sure the tongue has mounting space available for the brackets .

@rockycarr8344 3 года назад

Heavier is typically better when choosing a truck and trailer. There is something that needs to be discussed about weight rating though. Missouri is pretty lax on trailers. Other states are not, say some of those east of us and north of us. In several states a trailer with a gvwr of 10,000 pounds or more requires a driver to have a cdl license. Same if the truck rating is over 10,000 pounds. Having had the discussion for the last several years about this, a friend got pulled over not quite a year ago in that state just north of Missouri with a 1 ton truck and 14,000 pound trailer. Both the truck and trailer were empty but it did not matter. He had to hire a cdl driver to drive away his truck and was fined $5000 dollars for not having a cdl. I drive a similar set up and now have a class a cdl combination license. It was much cheaper to get the license than to pay the fine.

@TheSailingwoodworker 2 года назад

I found that the cheaper tandem axle trailers have brakes only on one axle. In Ohio where I live I believe that it is law to have brakes on all trailer axles if the trailer has a GVW over 3,000 lbs.

@BG-vq9fd 3 года назад

I wanted an enclosed trailer to move personal property. It took several months to get. My JD X738 or 2025R will also fit. Now I want an open trailer. You really have to shop or better yet order what you want. A knowledgeable dealer should know his line of trailers well enough to be helpful.

@russabrams3982 3 года назад

This suggestion may follow with the axle rating , but make sure the tires are rated for the loads you are planning for . Some of the cheaper trailers don't have tires that are even rated for the axles that come with the trailer . Make sure you have trailer rated tires .

@jeffmoon1826 3 года назад

Could you do a video on the best features to look for on a dump trailer? Thanks.

@comlbbeau 3 года назад

Great job, Mike. I might add, though, that if your 10,000 lb. trailer will be loaded with, say, a 1,500 lb. tongue weight, that 1,500 lbs. is transferred to the tow vehicle, thereby giving you another 1,500 lbs. of hauling capacity on your trailer. A good trailer is a great investment in safety.

@andrewahern3730 Год назад

That weight doesn’t disappear. It still needs to get stopped.

@thomasshelnutt9044 3 года назад

Mike - Great video as usual. Question about the WD40 White Lithium Grease - do you recommend it for lubricating PTO slide/extension surfaces?

@billloffler8637 3 года назад

I don’t like a trailer with the railings around the bed. I know it’s makes it stronger a easier to hold stuff in but someday you will want to get a pallet of sod, pavers, mulch stone or any pallet of something and the sides will be in the way of a forklift loading it. Also give fenders a thought, loading long lumber fenders are always in the way and makes it hard to load correctly for weight over the axle, but a trailer with the bed above the wheels does raise the center of gravity for hauling a tractor or car and makes the ramps steeper. Just my years of experience, of course one trailer for each problem would be the answer.

@williamhaynes7089 3 года назад

I have a 16 x 7 trailer with 2 ft. sides around, non removable....and that is true about pallets of stuff... but I also have a 10ft x5.5 (smaller one) that the sides fold down and i have had pallets of stuff loaded on it on the occasion i have needed to do that. I wouldn't give the trailer with sides up, works for damn near anything i have ever desired

@johanrunfeldt7174 3 года назад

Buy the tractor at the tractor dealer and the trailer at the trailer dealer!!

@davebarnessr.5805 2 года назад

Yea, when I bought my Kubota, I skipped out on the trailer package because the trailer was cheap and not well made, I bought a Big Tex and it’s a very heavy duty trailer and not hard to look at either far as trailers go!

@markpalkowski9673 3 года назад

i have tilt bed ,steel deck with a winch. i have had a few others but i have work up to this one

@rockycarr8344 3 года назад

I have Oliver crawlers with steel tracks. Steel tracks on a steel bed is death waiting to happen. Sometimes wood can be the better choice although steel usually indicates a better built heavier trailer.

@TheRoeshow0324 3 года назад

For example I have an LS XR4145 with a cab Tractor 4500lbs Loader w/bucket 1100lbs Ballast 750lbs Box blade 580lbs Brush Cutter 6’ 780lbs Trailer 18’ 2300lbs Total weight of tractor 7000-7500lbs W/trailer 9300-9800. That’s a 45hp tractor that would be exceed a lot of 1/2 ton trucks

@buzzsah 3 года назад

A good hitch, a standard 2in ball may not be enough. I like

@buzzsah 3 года назад

oops I like the dual-purpose pintle hitch it works with 2in ball

@agentleebs 3 года назад

My 7000 pound car hauler required a 2 5/16 inch ball. The ball I have has a 10,000 pound rating, so make sure the ball isn’t the weak point.

@donbrutcher4501 3 года назад

Buy a truck that is towing rated over the combined weight of the trailer and load by about 20%. Getting ticketed by the law for towing beyond your truck's registered capacity can be a very expensive.

@jhomrich89 3 года назад

Exactly, if you're towing a 30hp or less tractor and accessories you will likely be fine with a half ton, anything larger you may want to consider a diesel, safer anyway most of them these days you can get jake brakes that's another thing to consider

@d.a.ballou9740 3 года назад

Good info Mike, but if I could offer a suggestion. Could you make a companion video to this one discussing "where do I start"? I know the vehicle is important as you stated, but do you shop for the trailer first and then the truck, or vice versa? Does it matter? I'm in a similar position as Lonnie, in that I have the tractor and would like a trailer (preferably a dump trailer I think) but I'm pretty sure I would need to upgrade my truck. Plus, without weighing it, how do I know how heavy my tractor and implements actually are because the tractor brochure can only get you so far. These are only some of the questions I have and I just don't know where to start, or who to trust to ask the questions. Thanks for all you do and I apologize for the length of this comment. :)

@jimmaag4274 3 года назад

tractordata.com will get you the weight of the tractor and in most cases the dimensions, sometimes a fair amount of detail on the factory attachments as well. Aftermarket attachment weight/dimensions are usually easy to get from their respective manufacturers.

@T_157-40 3 года назад

Invisible black ice on a mountain road or highway can get out of control and the road may not be straight. Been there and fortunate to get it back under control.

@michaelmactavish1728 3 года назад

i accully looked at a new heavy duty kubota k-haul trailer wich pretty affordable

@duanehelton4800 3 года назад

make sure you have the right ramps for your tractor, two John Deere, 2010s, one is a row crop, one is a tri-pod, which, without center ramps, you won't get loaded

@aldredske6197 3 года назад

Sure you can. I load narrow front tractors all the time on 2 ramps. You just pull up at a angle and drive the front up and turn sharp so the back wheels hit the ramps square and drive on.

@trailerpropop1 3 года назад

The axles used for mobile homes are NOT 3500 lb axles! they are a 3 inch, 5200lb. 3500 lb axles are two and three eights tube. Mobile home axles have brakes that are pretty much useless and parts for them are difficult to come by. Avoid them!!

@rocksandoil2241 3 года назад

Wanna buy one just like Wes's? Everyone around borrows it. So if you buy one, hide it. It would be nice if someone bothered to NOT drag the light plug on the ground. I spend more time fixing the lights than I do pulling the trailer.

@marshalldavis6018 2 года назад

11. What about the bearing ? Are ez lube spindle better and bearing maintenance

@anthonyadkison4808 3 года назад

Any recommendation on goose neck versus 5th wheel? I have to get a new trailer for my Mahindra 6075 (weight issue) and it seems the trailers with adequate capacity are all either GN or 5W.

@andrewahern3730 Год назад

They help with sway and control by having the weight right on your truck’s axle. A bumper tow will cause your axle to act like a fulcrum. Too much tongue weight too far back and your truck will look like it’s doing a Carolina squat, taking weight off your nose, which can cause skidding or understeer. Also backing it up might be easier because of the shorter geometry between steering tires and pivot point.

@karlfark4541 3 года назад

I thought you were suppose to buy Tractor Mike hats and clothing . 😊

@vaughnburrows 3 года назад

Who makes the aluminum trailer that your neighbor owns?

@grantmorris4221 10 месяцев назад

Can I haul an ih 4442 with a single 12lbs axel under my trailer?

@Desertjoe789 3 года назад

Number one thing to stay away from on trailers used to haul equipment daily? Aluminum.

@alexmouton2204 3 года назад

One thing to note, a 'car hauler' trailer will have the floor joists on 24 inch centers, while an 'equipment' trailer will have 16 inch centers.

@paulfromupstateny8065 3 года назад

Driving a tractor onto a trailer can lift the trailer tongue and the truck it is attached to. Ramps that have a footing that supports the weight at the rear of the trailer, or jack stands at the rear for support when using slide out ramps will prevent that.

@lostmanamiga38 3 года назад

what do you all think about a studed metal bed instead of wood?

@swiftcaution5170 3 года назад

Real nice and durable.. except considerably heavier

@williamhaynes7089 3 года назад

Diamond plate

@swampwhiteoak1 3 года назад

Many trailers are equipped with poor quality tires from China. Replace them with proper trailer tires of a suitable load rating. Used car tires are not good either.

@NYTROeast 3 года назад

This is why I went with a 10K trailer for it gave me 7,200 payloads. for I'll probably never have more than 6k on the trailer and I would not buy a trailer with single axl breaking and I choose 20 ft trailer since my machine is 14ft leaves me 6ft of soace for implement and attachments

@mkc0005 2 года назад

Check your tires when buying a new trailer. Lots of cheap trailers come with "transport tires," meaning they're low quality tires meant simply to get the trailer from the manufacturer to the dealer. This is especially common in "package deal" trailers so you may be looking at another $400+ in new tires pretty quick.