Finding The Right Trailer

Finding the right trailer can be difficult. but we're here to help.

Finding the Right Trailer

Finding the right trailer to meet your needs can be rather difficult. However, it does not have to be. There are several models to pick from, and there are also different types of materials these models can be constructed from as well. Before purchasing a trailer, all of these items must be considered before one is decided on.

Types of Materials for Utility Trailers

There are typically two types of materials used in making trailers. Aluminum is one of the more popular choices for a few reasons. It is extremely light, but it carries a great deal of weight. Many people believe that because aluminum is made of lighter materials, it will not be able to carry as much weight. More often than not, though, the aluminum in these trailers is made of an alloy, which makes the metal stronger and more durable. These trailers are lighter on fuel economy, too.

Steel is the other popular choice for trailers. This extra weight is great for stability and endurance over continuous use. They bounce less because of their added weight, and they can take on more weight per load, too. However, these extra benefits come at a cost. Steel trailers are more likely to eat it at the gas pump, so owning one might not be as cost effective in the long run.

Types of Utility Trailers

There are a few, different types of utility trailers. Each one is rather different from the others, so they need thorough consideration. One of the most common types is the single axle variety. These trailers operate in a manner that is stated in its name: on a single axle. There is only one set of wheels to contend with. This arrangement makes them easier to tow economically, and they often cost less to buy over other trailer options. Since there is only one axle, this trailer type is easier to maneuver, hence it is easier for most people to park with, too. Fitting in a tight spot is not a problem with single axle trailers. They are also easier to maintain because it means only caring for one set of tires and brakes. Unfortunately, single axle trailers are rather limited in the amount of weight they can tow. It is also important to note that smaller weighted single axle trailers do not have brakes, so they rely on the vehicle in front of them to handle the braking completely. Having only one set of wheels means the tires will wear out sooner due to fewer tires being present to share the weight load over time. This situation causes the tires to break down faster.

Tandem or double axle trailers are a bit more complex. They often have their own suspension systems, so they are guaranteed to have brakes that will need to be connected to the towing vehicle in some way. Setting up a tandem trailer, therefore, takes a little bit of know-how. There are a few worthwhile tradeoffs, though. For one, a tandem trailer operates in a more stable manner at highway speeds. Most of this fact is due to the trailer having its own suspension system. Changing tires on a tandem trailer is easier than on a single axle trailer, too. These trailers must have brakes on them by law due to the amount of weight that they carry. Therefore, they are safer to use. The key to stopping a tandem trailer from bouncing is to evenly spread out the weight of a load. This feature is not present in single axle trailers. The unfortunate tradeoff to all of these features is that they hike up the trailer's cost twofold. First, the trailer itself costs more than a single axle model, and it also eats more money with fuel economy.

Conclusion

Finding the right trailer doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be an easy purchase once all of the pros and cons are weighed against each other evenly.