Trailer build

[DXN1EL]

I need some advice for the build of a small 4.5 x 8. 3,500# trailer to haul the sprayer that I will be building.
The plan is to build it out of 4" 5.4# C channel, since i don't plan to build a top rail for the trailer.

First problem I encountered. The C channel, has a flange of only 1.584" and the spring hangers are 2.25"
My Idea was to weld a C channel with the flanges facing up across the frame than weld the hangers on the web of that channel.

Here is an ugly drawing of mine

 

[sandfs]

Unless that's metal laying around I would face the bottom flange of the channel with some 2" x or 2.5" x 1/4".. You're only talking 3 to 4 feet per side. Using that 4" channel is just going to be added weight you don't really need.

 

[crazyal]

When I built a small trailer for snow machines I used 2x4 1/8" tube and made the hangers. If you want to stay with c-channel then I would use the store bought hanger brackets. They make the same thing for the rear but with a bushing in it for the shackles. I think I would wait on building the trailer until after you build the sprayer unless you are sure you know where the weight will be located. Axle placement is pretty critical to get the correct tongue weight.

 

[triptester]

The simplest method would be to box in the channel where the spring hangers will be located. A 4" long piece of 3/8" flat would be adequate by each hanger.
Hanger manufacturers recommend only welding at the open ends of the hangers not on the radius bends.

 

[GLyford]

I like the boxing in idea.

I have seen some trailers where a piece of 2" angle ties into the frame and hanger, and spans clear across to the other hanger.

I have also seen some where the spring hangers have been welded to a piece of angle the long way, plus maybe a foot, and then that is bolted or welded to the rest of the trailer frame. Doing that would also allow you to move the axle later for balance?

 

[DXN1EL]

I like the angle iron idea. I am still waiting for the axle to arrive the suspension kit is supose to be here tomorrow.
For the tank i will be using a 275 gallon tote. Because i was unable to find a proper tank on the used market. That tote would be placed close to the back and the axle on the middle of where the tote will sit.
On the front of the trailer i wilk carry a 55 gallon applicator tank.
The engine and pump of the tote will be installed on the a frame. That way the gravity will naturally prime the pump.
Between the two tanks the engine pump combo of the smaller tank will be installed.

 

[Stimw]

Just make a bracket that looks like the Lexus car symbol and weld it to the side of the lip with the top welded the the inside bottom of the top lip.

 

[DXN1EL]

Thanks guys. Great ideas
I think the angle iron along the frame holding the two hangers one side and another one for the other side would be the easiest to make.
I am thinking 4" x 3" unequal leg. What thikness should i buy 5/16 3/8 or 1/2
The springs are 25 1/4 long
Is 36" per side decent enough?

 

[HCJtractor]

Please keep us informed. Photos would be great. I’m thinking of building one also.

 

[DXN1EL]

Here are some pictures of what i done so far