Dump trailer for hauling

[Code54]

I currently have a 18' (12k) eqpt trailer and am thinking about getting rid of it for a 16' or so foot dump trailer. I use my current trailer about 1 time a year to haul my MX5100 and was wondering how a dump trailer would do for that use? I am also thinking hard about getting a Mini Ex next year (8000lb machine) and also was wondering what you all thought about hauling a mini in a dump.

 

[George2615]

I just replied to another post of a similar nature. I have a Cross Country 16' 13.5K dump (10K load rated) and a PJ 22' 14K full tilt bed. I have hauled my tractor in the dump and it hauls it fine. The downfalls I have are 1) Tight quarters when I have to climb in the dump to chain down the tractor. 2) Steep approach angle due to short 5' ramps. 3) 16' dump doesn't give much room to move the tractor fore/aft to balance the load especially with an attachment. 4) I don't use my BH that often off my property but I cannot load it in the dump due to the approach angle the BH will drag and if I could get it loaded I don't know how much tongue weight I'll lose due to the extra BH weight in back.
My opinion would be to keep the eqpt trailer.

 

[GManBart]

For hauling the tractor only once a year it probably doesn't make much difference, but what other uses would you have for the dump trailer? I have a 14K 16' Load Trail dump trailer and it's incredibly handy for a lot of things. I planned to use it mostly for moving fill and brush, but absolutely love it when I have to run to Menards to pick up lumber, insulation, etc....open the tailgate, slide everything in, close the tailgate, unroll the tarp, secure the tarp and drive off. Every time to go to places like that to pick up supplies the guys in the lumber yard always comment how convenient it is.

As far as hauling a mini-ex, I'm sure it would be fine, and if you stick to machines in the 8,000lb range you'll be okay. Mine weighs roughly 4,300lbs empty (scissor lift, 3-way tailgate, etc), so that would leave you with a little wiggle room.

 

[Code54]

Thanks!

I mainly want it to haul gravel and fill. We have about ½ a mile of gravel driveway and grave around two buildings so it always seems like we need some somewhere. I am also filling in a big area so a dump would make that a LOT easier!. Never really thought about for hauling wood - that could also be handy. I normally use my aluminum ATV trailer but the dump would be great!

As for hauling, I am looking at Kubota KX71's (used) as it fits perfectly for what I want so you are right ti does leave some room on the capacity for safety which I really like.

Thanks for the info! I appreciate your input

 

[Sawyer Rob]

I don't use my BH that often off my property but I cannot load it in the dump due to the approach angle the BH will drag and if I could get it loaded I don't know how much tongue weight I'll lose due to the extra BH weight in back.

So, why don't you back it in and see how it does that way...

SR

 

[George2615]

So, why don't you back it in and see how it does that way...

SR

Hard to back in because I have a cab tractor and have to get out to move the BH. Plus, 16' is a little short with the loader and BH on. Since I have both trailers its much easier to use the PJ for hauling equipment and easier and faster to chain down.

 

[wcampbell47]

For hauling the tractor only once a year it probably doesn't make much difference, but what other uses would you have for the dump trailer? I have a 14K 16' Load Trail dump trailer and it's incredibly handy for a lot of things. I planned to use it mostly for moving fill and brush, but absolutely love it when I have to run to Menards to pick up lumber, insulation, etc....open the tailgate, slide everything in, close the tailgate, unroll the tarp, secure the tarp and drive off. Every time to go to places like that to pick up supplies the guys in the lumber yard always comment how convenient it is.

As far as hauling a mini-ex, I'm sure it would be fine, and if you stick to machines in the 8,000lb range you'll be okay. Mine weighs roughly 4,300lbs empty (scissor lift, 3-way tailgate, etc), so that would leave you with a little wiggle room.

I have the same trailer and highly recommend it. Has never failed to lift the heaviest load if I have good battery. Comes fully equipped with 3 way gate, ramps, and tarp. I chain the tailgate to about 5 inches and am able to spread material very evenly if on level ground. Haul my L3901 with FEL no problem - not enough room to carry rear attachment. Well maybe if i put the bucket on the goose neck.

 

[Code54]

Thanks!
I did some measuring and the tractor and loader will fit in the 16' no problem - just need it to be 84" wide (back tires are wide).
Other than that it looks like it would work great for the little bit of tractor hauling I do. mainly want it if I need to take the machine in due to a problem as otherwise I really don't haul it much. The Mini Ex maybe a different story - I can see where I maybe moving it monthly but still not a lot in the grand scheme of things.

What have you found to be the best width?

 

[Code54]

Been doing some looking and thinking hard about just keeping the Eqpt trailer and getting a dump (hate to add another trailer to the collection but....)
Now the question is do you normally run out of capacity or out or room for the material? I will haul gravel, and dirt most of the time. maybe mulch sometimes but not enough that I am concerned about that. Was kicking around getting a 12' 12k because of the increased maneuverability or maybe a 14' 12k - what are your thoughts ?

 

[ultrarunner]

Seems it is easy to overload a dump with gravel... so heavier GVW is better except in my state over 10k and then you need commercial which is a deal killer for many... I do know some that keep their equipment spotless, only use it for personal use and have never had an issue towing a 14k trailer without a CDL...

As to capacity... the only time I loaned out my trailer to the son of my neighbor who has his CDL and works in logging it came back damaged... it is a PJ

So I happened to see him yesterday and he is buying another piece of equipment and asked about my trailer... told him the equipment is too heavy and he said not anymore than what he hauled last time on 14 miles of dirt roads...

He said my trailer has two 7k axles and I said it has two 6k axles... so we went over to the trailer and he was wrong... I have two 6k axles and is plated for 9,990.

So this is what can happen when you loan your equipment... grossly overloaded and used on poor washboard dirt roads in the mountains...