Tips on How to Build a Trailer

In the case of how to build a trailer, the initial step is to prepare the required materials and tools. They include metal sheets, main frame of a trailer, angle iron, a wielding machine, cut off saw, wheel and axle assembly, tongue and wheels.

To start off the trailer construction, you should decide a design for your trailer. You may choose one without a roof while a covered trailer can be rectangular, circular or your own customized shape. Include measurements in your draft to assist you in choosing the materials. Remember that you include a hitch, the instrument that link the trailer to your vehicle, in your trailer design.

Decide on the materials and measurements before you buy them. Always buy extra materials in case you need more for errors. While many are clueless when it comes to deciding measurements as they may not have experience on how to build a trailer, you can measure an existing trailer before modifying to your preferences.

The most significant element of a trailer is the wheel and axle set. You must ensure that your selected wheel and axle is sturdy and able to cope with the size of the trailer you intend to build. Then trace the trailer's body onto the metal sheets and cut the outline. Weld them together and make sure they are welded correctly to avoid gaps between the parts. Next decide the position of your axle, the rod placed in the middle of the wheels. If you prefer a trailer which tilts backward when it is not connected to a vehicle then your axle should be placed near the body's gravity center.

To continue the trailer construction process, you need to calculate the tongue weight. It is the quantity of force exerted onto the hitch by the trailer. To get the accurate weight, find out the weight of the full frame and the tongue is five percent of the total weight. Then turn over the frame to fix the tongue. It should extend from the frame to allow connection to a vehicle. The tongue includes the latch, a hand wheel and a coupler. The tongue should be above the axle. A usual tongue is made by two steel pieces with holes and a round bar is placed in the hole to link the pieces together. This permits the bending of the tongue for the trailer to turn properly.

Next a latch should be attached to the frame to give balance to the trailer. It also helps in hitching the trailer to the vehicle. Then attach the fenders to frame and weld them with low heat. This is to protect the wheel. To support the fenders you may attach the angle iron. Weld the angle iron together to strengthen the back of the frame. An open trailer will use this to support the gate. Painting may start after assembling all parts. If there is any rust remember to remove them to ensure paint can last longer.

Stuart is writing for many websites, He enjoys writing on wide range of topics such as homemade camper and how to build a trailer. You may visit for more details.