Trailer recommendation

George2615 · Aug 22, 2006

I agree with the others. You will need at least a 10K trailer. A 6500# dozer is overweight for a 7K trailer. I'm sure you can find a new 10K for not much more than a 7K. A 300 mile trip with a 6500# dozer on a 7K trailer would probably damage or may even bend the axles. The frame may handle the weight but doubt the axles would put up with any bouncing along the road.

rback33 · Aug 22, 2006

OK.. so you need a trailer.. just not THAT big... looking to BUY anyway... my guess is.. if you go to the trailer guy and buy the smaller trailer you need... and don't dicker TOO much... then negotiate a one time borrow of a used heavier trailer or something.. he'll have both items you need and he's IS making money off of the trailer you actually buy... worth a shot to me... but I am a tight*** and have negotiated in Walmart before. (and quite well I thought)...

stumpfield · Aug 22, 2006

Don't know if it's true.... The trailer sales guy said the axle manufacturer under rate the axle to cover product liability. The 3500lb axle actually can handle a lot more. They factor-in everyday usage which a lot more metal fratigue. If I overload it just once when it's brand new, it should be OK. Of course, he only said that verbally and besides... he's a salesman.
Anyway, given these responses on TBN, I think I'll stick to the 10,000lb trailer.

roxynoodle · Aug 22, 2006

I didn't have a trailer yet when I bought my tractor. I rented one from a local dealership (they had a 14000lb GVW one) for $75. My tractor was 120 miles from my house and they didn't mind that I had it all day, was going that far and would be dropping it back off after they were closed. I would recommend you either sell your 7000lb trailer and buy at least a 10000lb one or else rent an appropriate trailer to make your trip. That is a long way to go being overloaded and believe me, if something breaks or you have an accident you will be regretting not using a heavier rated trailer. Good luck on your trip.

BarryinMN · Aug 22, 2006

10k is a good choice. I was toting my new to me dozer home & had a trailer tire blow off. It took the wheel rim, lug nuts & studs with it.

Ended up going 30-40 miles on 3 trailer tires and the ball mount.

Didn't know the tire & wheel was missing until I stopped for a break & my normal walk around checking tires & tiedowns came up 1 wheel short

An overloaded trailer suffering an instant extreme overload may not act with as much indifference.