Looking for dump trailer gate latches....

jim_wilson · Aug 27, 2005

I have been thinking about either buying or building a small dump trailer for a while now. What I was looking for was something that I could both tow behind my BX23 and also possibly tow on-road if needed. My best candidate has been the Pronovost/KingKutter 1.5 ton dual axle dump trailer but all the prices I have gotten seem pretty steep - over $3000 for instance for the road going version. So now I am back to thinking that I may just build what I am looking for - I have done a bunch of research on where to get all the pieces I will need ( already own the welder) and the one thing that has me stumped is where I could get some of the funky latch setups that most of the dump trailer mfg. use on their trailers.

The Pronovost for instance has a setup where the gate can be configured to open from the top or the bottom. A lot of the RTV type vehicles have gate latches on their dump beds too.
So - does anybody know a source or sources where items like this can be purchased? I can't believe that all the trailer manufacturers are making their own - they must be buying them from somewhere.

MadReferee · Aug 27, 2005

Most weld up their own.

Go to www.trailerplans.com and order their plans for the Model 10HD hydraulic dump trailer. These plans are very detailed and easy to follow. They include prints showing how various types of hinges and latches can be fabricated.

Of all the plans I have looked at, these are the best I have seen. Well worth the $34.99.

jim_wilson · Aug 27, 2005

Thanks for the info - I will grab a copy of those plans. At least they might give me some ideas. I was thinking that there must be somebody out there who makes these types of latches but maybe the trailer builders all fab them themselves.

AntrimMan · Aug 27, 2005

Jim,
I don't know where they get the latches, maybe there is some help in the EZ-Dumper.
http://www.ezdumper.com/
They are all over the place down here, there is a dealer nearby. Maybe the latches are available as spares.
All the best,
Martin

HomeBrew2 · Aug 29, 2005

I'll be interested in what you find out Jim. I am to pick up a 2 ton on-road dump trailer later this week. It comes with barn style doors ... no gate, which for 90% of what I need to do will work fine. But, if I find a quick and easy way to make a 2-way gate, I'd probably make one.

drmiller100 · Aug 29, 2005

fwiw, i have 2 dump trailers. one has pins with holes on the bottom, and barn doors. this system is really really bad, as it is constantly filling up with stuff, and the doors pop open when heading down the road.
the other trailer has a notch in the rear plate, and a gizmo goes into it. this system is MUCH better, as it never plugs.
I'm thinking of building new rear doors that I can remove and use for ramps. I'm also thinking of building ramps, and mounting them on the doors for my skidsteer.