Aluminum Trailers

[4Diamond]

We have always pulled steel trailers since we switched from 2 ton trucks. We live in a moderate climate and road salt isn't a huge issue most of the time. Our old steel trailer is a 91 model and it's best days are way in the past.

A neighbor has a 94 model aluminum trailer for sale. I can't remember the brand. Those of you that pull aluminum do you like them and what should I look for as far as wear and tear? Visually the trailer is in amazing condition.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Justin]

we have a 24ft Wilson, and i wouldn't care to pull anything else. we also have a 18ft steel Circle D 4horse slant that is used mainly for going to rodeos. the Wilson pulls much easier. IMO, Wilson's are at the top in terms of aluminum trailers. i'm sure nobody will disagree with me :roll: :wink:

as far as elvaluating an aluminum, i guess look it over the same as you would a steel one. check the floors, kick the tires, make sure all the gates swing, slide and lock like they are suppose to, etc...

 

[Big Muddy rancher]

Check for corrosion anywhere steel and aluminum meet up. Axle hangers in the neck or anywhere else. It's a chemical reaction between the metals.

 

[WyomingRancher]

We just switched to an aluminum trailer, and it really pulls nice. However, since the floor is solid, nothing drains, and you have to immediately clean it out or else it turns into a ice skating rink... hopefully you're in a more tropical region than me. So far I do like it though. Good luck with your purchase .

 

[EastWind]

We have a aluminum Charmac trailer that tows great, it is a lot lighter that our steel trailer which makes it better on fuel, and a easy-er pull. it is also nicer to clean because you don't have to worry about peeling paint with the pressure washer. Like BMR said, check for oxidation where ever the Aluminum contacts the steel and check for cracked welds.

 

[cure]

Check the doors and hinges I pull a 92 featherlite and am starting to have problems with the hinges wearing down so the door sit lower than normal. You will how much lighter it is verses a steel one.

 

[js1234]

IMO, Wilson's are at the top in terms of aluminum trailers.

Have a pair of 18' Wilson's and agree completely.

 

[WyomingRancher]

IMO, Wilson's are at the top in terms of aluminum trailers.

Have a pair of 18' Wilson's and agree completely.

They might be the top trailer, but their dealership in our area sure isn't top in anything :x . We tried ordering a Wilson, but never could get very good follow-up from them, so decided on a Featherlite instead since they were more interested in selling us a trailer.

 

[4Diamond]

We don't have many aluminum dealers in our area most guys run steel trailers. Thanks for the suggestions

 

[MO STOCKER]

Hey, 4D there are several on Craigs List in various parts of MO.

 

[vbarviper]

Elite trailers made in okc are best for money. Would not buy anything else new.

 

[Ben H]

I think our EBY Wrangler trailer was built in 1991, it's still going strong.

 

[floyd]

Welded or riveted?

Guy from Charmac told me don't tow it empty if at all possible.

 

[myersfarm]

We don't have many aluminum dealers in our area most guys run steel trailers. Thanks for the suggestions

do not know were in Missouri you are....but I live in SEMO bought mine in Mountain Grove 120 miles away

they are worth the drive

 

[4Diamond]

25 miles from Mtn G

 

[myersfarm]

here is listings


http://www.equinenow.com/trailers/featherlitemissouri.htm



bought my at the WEHR FORD DEALER

 

[busterbear]

we have a 24 ft. elite and it pulls like a dream. bought it new in 08 and have absolutely no problems with it. we still have 2 steel trailers ( 20 ft. gn stidham brand and a 16 ft. bp stidham) that we pull up and down our old dirt and gravel county roads. i never thought that the aluminum trailers could pull that much easier but they really do. i think that stress cracks would be more of a problem on these trailers in our area than the corrosion.

 

[Yale]

Thought it might be of interest,the best selling brand of livestock boxes in the UK,made not far from me.We have a dp 120.

Sorry can't get link to work.www.iwt.co.uk/[/url]