Multi-purpose trailer

[dgeesaman]

I'm looking for a open trailer to do a few things. If one of these tasks is not compatible with the others I'd like to know that.
1) Haul a sportscar with low clearance (not crazy NASCAR low, think Corvette)
2) Haul a zero turn mower
3) Haul 35hp CUT w/ loader (4000#, maybe 5000 with loaded tires?)
4) Haul large square or small square bales of hay. 5k pounds is plenty.

Budget is $4k, 5k max. Used is fine, aluminum is almost certainly out due to cost.

Our truck is set up for Class III and gooseneck so I have little preference there. I don't have money for aluminum but I have seen the crazy stuff people go to in loading/unloading sportscars so I'd be willing to spend a little more if that helps handling the car.

Your input is greatly appreciated.

David

 

[bcp]

Any trailer, and a couple of boards:

 

[tractorworks]

I'd look for a tilt trailer. There's a lot out there.

 

[Soundguy]

drop deck lowbow sounds about right...

 

[Diamondpilot]

I do everything you just said with my 2004 Jerry James 18' X 82" low boy car hauler.

It has tandem 3500# axles giving it a 7000# GVWR but only weighs 1450# with a spare and winch leaving 5550# useful load. It sits 14" off the ground and has rear slide out ramps that are 5' long. I have hauled my fathers 89 Vette and my uncles 96 about 25 times.

It has brakes on one axle and has hauled everything from small cars like a Cobalt to a Suburban and everything between. I also haul my 5400# tractor on it monthly. Its got well over 10,000 trouble free miles hauling vehicles, ztr's, building materials, household items, mulch, round and square bales, tractors, other trailers, ect.

Its only needed a replacement battery and I just put on the third set of tires including the originals. They only seem to last 5 years or so.

Best part was it was well under $$1500 new back in 04 & I could get that out of it today.

Chris

 

[Will_C]

I'll second what Chris said-an 18' car hauler would be just what you need.

Will

 

[dgeesaman]

I see some car haulers for sale locally at around $2k. That seems cheap - while I don't want gods gift to trailers, would this price be just junk?

David

 

[Soundguy]

I see some car haulers for sale locally at around $2k. That seems cheap - while I don't want gods gift to trailers, would this price be just junk?

David

can't speak for other markets.. but 2k will get a brand new 16' car hauler here with wood deck and 'manual' ramps, 2 brake axles .. tounge jack and battery kit with 7 pin plug

 

[Diamondpilot]

$2000 or less is the going rate here also.

Chris

 

[Xfaxman]

I'm looking for a open trailer to do a few things. If one of these tasks is not compatible with the others I'd like to know that.
1) Haul a sportscar with low clearance (not crazy NASCAR low, think Corvette)
2) Haul a zero turn mower
3) Haul 35hp CUT w/ loader (4000#, maybe 5000 with loaded tires?)
4) Haul large square or small square bales of hay. 5k pounds is plenty.

Budget is $4k, 5k max. Used is fine, aluminum is almost certainly out due to cost.

Our truck is set up for Class III and gooseneck so I have little preference there. I don't have money for aluminum but I have seen the crazy stuff people go to in loading/unloading sportscars so I'd be willing to spend a little more if that helps handling the car.

Your input is greatly appreciated.

David

I recommend gooseneck! :thumbsup:

If you get a tilt, be careful hauling hay, don't load clear to the back or there will be more weight behind the axles than in front. You don't want the "tail wagging the dog".

Some car haulers have removable fenders, so you can open the car door when it is on the trailer.

Not sure you could load a Corvette on mine, I haven't tried.