Need some input on altering my trailer.

[Chuck K.]

How could I find out for sure if the pipe (more like tubing) top rail is essential or could it be removed and not adversely effect the trailers hauling capability?

One option I suppose would try and contact the manufacturer but even if it was doable then would probably advise against due to liability issues.

I attached a few pics.

Thanks in advance for any input.

 

[BruceWard]

How much weight is the trailer rated for and how much do you haul with it?

The issue is whether or not the the two piece frame rail can handle the load without the tubing above. Removing the tubing will weaken the trailer.

Do you want to remove the tubing everywhere or only on a section?

The gooseneck hitch significantly lengthens the distance from the front axle to the ball. All of the weight in that area is carried by the frame rails and tubing. If it were a 10K to 14K bumper pull trailer I would say go for it.

 

[tulenutn2o]

How could I find out for sure if the pipe (more like tubing) top rail is essential or could it be removed and not adversely effect the trailers hauling capability?

One option I suppose would try and contact the manufacturer but even if it was doable then would probably advise against due to liability issues.

I attached a few pics.

Thanks in advance for any input.
View attachment 164326

View attachment 164327

As a general rule when a trailer is built, the trailers with rails use that rail as a structure component of the trailer. A flatbed without the rail has the structure underneath sized accordingly.

 

[Diamondpilot]

I would not remove it. I knew a guy who had a live stock GN trailer. He cut it down to make a car hauler and the first one he put on it folded it up into junk.

Chris

 

[PILOON]

I believe if you were to heat and bend the tube side rail downwards and re weld it to the side of the frame you would not weaken the frame.
eg, just enough to let the fel bucket fit.
In fact the then triangle area would be stronger than a ladder side, however you would then want to triangle brace the tailgate vertical posts as the side rails do add some side (fore/aft) support there.
I'd guess 1/4" plate 12 x 16 welded on the out side would do the trick.

Would make for a neat notch to fit the bucket in.

Just my opinion, but shure a shame to cut and weld a nice new trailor.

 

[LBrown59]

As a general rule when a trailer is built, the trailers with rails use that rail as a structure component of the trailer. A flatbed without the rail has the structure underneath sized accordingly.

that's the problem with landscape trailers.

You can't load / unload them from the side.

 

[Chuck K.]

Thanks folks, base on this information I will leave it as is or sell it out right and get the trailer I want..

 

[Sabretooth]

Thanks folks, base on this information I will leave it as is or sell it out right and get the trailer I want..

Thats not only I think the best thing to do but it is the better smarter way to do it good luck. I have seen some real deal's on GN's that would work for you here in Texas probally only because I do not need or have something to use it, also maybe because I just got my apprasial from the county and people seem to be selling out right now .

BTW what a surprise it went up, up and away again my appraisal that is.

 

[MikeD74T]

Did you buy this trailer used? It seems odd that the manufacturer would put stake pockets under a rail that makes the pockets inaccessible. Was the pipe rail added per a customer request or by another owner? Rail does not look structural to me. MikeD74T

 

[Chuck K.]

Did you buy this trailer used? It seems odd that the manufacturer would put stake pockets under a rail that makes the pockets inaccessible. Was the pipe rail added per a customer request or by another owner? Rail does not look structural to me. MikeD74T

I bought it new like it is about 4 years ago to haul jeeps on. While the side rails are useful in securing loads sometimes the rails are a real PITA when using the pallet forks to load/off load sheetrock, pallets etc.

I really like the lowboy for several reasons, with the stake pockets I could build some removable side boards..