I need a bigger trailer

[lug nut]

I have started looking at some gooseneck trailers to fill my need for a bigger, heavier duty trailer than the 18' car hauler I have now.

I have been looking at some Big Tex, Lawrimore, Texas Pride and another brand that I can't recall at the moment. They all are priced pretty close to each other, so I am having a hard time deciding what I want.

I will be using the trailer to haul my tractor, my Dad's tractor, round bales of hay, possibly a small dozer, etc... I am thinking something in the 24+5 range will handle my needs.

Any input on brands, sizes or features would be appreciated.

 

[wushaw]

I like Big Tex myself.
I recommend GN, many tie downs and even the ability to use the ratchet types like on the big tralers.
Brakes on both axles, the ability to put a winch on the ft. for just incase you have a dead tractor or vehicle.
Duall tandem axles since you may want to haul a small dozer...I think a small dozer weighs like 14k.
Easily adjustable coupler with pin for different height trucks.

 

[InlineDieselFan]

Never thinking we would buy as much land andthus as big of a tractor and all of the implements, I bought a 20', 12,000 gvw trailer a year or two before bying land and the tractor.

A gooseneck is the way to go, Big Tex is real nice, I also liked PJ trailers. I would also agree wtih wushaw, above, dual tandem axles are the way to go. They do not sink in the mud as much as singles and turn much better than three axles when you are in tight spaces.

stake pockets that can hold a real 2x4, I have aluminium 2x4's for my wood sides and they are stout and nice.

a rub rail, and extra tie downs, if you have a welder or access to one do this yourself it would be much cheaper.

steve

 

[Highbeam]

I have a bumper pull PJ but one thing I really like and would look for on future trailers is the flush mounted/recessed style of lighting. These aren't necessasrily LED lights but are rubber mounted, sealed lense/bulb combinations that are used by truckers so they are very available at most anywhere they sell anything for trucks. Vibration resistant, waterproof, and flush mounted to make them really hard to break. They are sharp.

Replacable deck boards. I found many trailers that assembled the steel around the deck boards and then welded the steel in place to hold everything together. Easier to build but much harder to fix.

Paint on the underside. Many trailers were only painted on the topside.

I have no complaints about my PJ and would gladly buy another. Always get compliments.

 

[Rara Avis]

I have started looking at some gooseneck trailers to fill my need for a bigger, heavier duty trailer than the 18' car hauler I have now.

I have been looking at some Big Tex, Lawrimore, Texas Pride and another brand that I can't recall at the moment. They all are priced pretty close to each other, so I am having a hard time deciding what I want.

I will be using the trailer to haul my tractor, my Dad's tractor, round bales of hay, possibly a small dozer, etc... I am thinking something in the 24+5 range will handle my needs.

Any input on brands, sizes or features would be appreciated.

Unless you have a CDL watch how high you go on weight...many state DOT agents (Oklahoma, Iowa, documented events) are on a revenue rampage...

PJ Trailers - Classic Flatdeck with Singles

 

[Farmwithjunk]

Some people like to hook/un-hook their trailer with a load. If you ever envision that as a possibility, pick a trailer with dual weight jacks. Singles work great with empty trailers but are a bit unstable with a load.

Many brands now offer a lift up to level dovetail. I've got that and I LOVE it. Only on rare occasions have I ever needed it, but it's nice. (great when hauling hay)

Either buy with or plan on adding a spare tire carrier/tire/wheel. Don't learn the hard way what happens when you DON'T have a spare. Trailer tires take a thrashing. Tires go flat or blow out at the worst possible moment.

A feature I like is a chain box built on the trailer. I leave my binders and chains with each one of my trailers. They don't help much if you're out somewhere and the chains are at home on the shop floor.

Look UNDER trailers when you're shopping. Check the distance between crossmembers. Wide spaced cross members mean the deck boards will be flexing with the load. I prefer 2' centers. Seen 'em as wide as 3'.

Check the quality of a trailers wiring. Some look like a rolling fire hazzard. Might not catch on fire, but they will give you problems somewhere down the road. Look for "automotive grade" electrical work.

Lastly, check the quality and weight rating of the TIRES. I've seen dozens of new 14,000 GVWR trailers (as an example) that have tires that limit carrying capacity to well under the trailers capacity. It's a real bummer to buy a new trailer then have to turn right around and spend a pocket full of cash on new rubber to be able to use that trailer to its potential.

 

[SnowRidge]

Something I never thought of when I bought my last trailer, checking who makes the axles. I ended up with brand X axles, instead of Dexter. Dexter parts are available everywhere. Brand X, who knows.

 

[DirtyDan243]

Take a look at Brute Trailers. They sell on eBay and the website is detailed and lengthy. I was impressed.
Brute Gooseneck Trailers

 

[lug nut]

Thanks for the advice, guys.

I've heard some good things about the PJ trailers, but it looks like the closest dealer is in TX. I've about made my mind up on a Big Tex. There is a dealer about 30 miles from here, and they also have a good reputation.

 

[Rara Avis]

Thanks for the advice, guys.

I've heard some good things about the PJ trailers, but it looks like the closest dealer is in TX. I've about made my mind up on a Big Tex. There is a dealer about 30 miles from here, and they also have a good reputation.

Texas is their manufacturing facility...

Fill out the data...and they will provide you with a local dealer...I'm pretty sure there is one in NY...

PJ Trailers - Retail Stores