For a GN trailer, can I put the planking right on the I-beams?

[LD1]

It is also clear that they arent a standard beam either. With one flange being wider than the other and a really thin web.

They are more than likely pleanty strong for a trailer though. I would just want peice of mind of being able to calculate loads, stress/deflection, and just plain knowing that it is actually an I-beam.

CJMDJM: are these actually beams that were formed?? or are they plate steel welded together as I am suspecting?

 

[Tdawg]

LD1, I'm thinking the same thing-something doesn't sound right about these beams. I was wondering if the bottom flanges had been trimmed? Some pics would be good.

 

[slowzuki]

I'd say get away from the 3" deck plank if you can. I've got a 2.25" deck on my 27 ft flatdeck and the wood weighs half the empty trailer weight. I could shed 500 to 1000 lbs going to thin gauge checker plate but then it wouldn't be flush on the top.

 

[cjmdjm]

Edit: In response to slowzuki, I've pretty much given up on using the 3" bridge planks, I'll probably buy some lighter lumber. 3" is overkill, since I'm not using my original idea of putting planks directly on top the H-beams. So the wood doesn't have to span such a large gap.

Here's some pics of the beams. In response to LD1, I think the are welded. Is that bad? Pics link (click any image to enlarge):

38 ft I beams - Imgur

Thanks guys!

 

[LD1]

In response to LD1, I think the are welded. Is that bad? Pics link (click any image to enlarge):


Thanks guys!

Not necessarily. A 16" beam is overkill to start with. So I think you will be fine.

But plating welded together isnt as good as formed I-beams.

Kinda like if you need 10' of channel Iron and you only have 2 5' peices and weld them together. Sure, it is good engough for what you need, but is it as good as a single 10' peice??

 

[Tdawg]

cjmdjm, just a thought-for all the effort to build the rest of the trailer around these beams-is it worth it?

 

[jenkinsph]

cjmdjm, just a thought-for all the effort to build the rest of the trailer around these beams-is it worth it?

That is a very good point, I wouldn't do it. Much better to have the correct beams for the job. Those beams in the pictures are not designed for building a trailer.