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Rick
 
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On Mon, 23 May 2005 11:25:24 +0100, "Christian McArdle"
wrote:

My ideal would be one that can carry 8'x4' sheet material. It doesn't
have to have solid sides or bottom, the type made of mesh would be
fine.


All the mechanical bits are available easily.

They seem to be cheapest on

www.trailerpartswarehouse.co.uk.

You will to decide on your weight capacity and number of axles. If you're
taking 8'x4' sheets, you will probably want brakes. Not only are they
required for 750kg (which is quickly reached transporting rubble or
plasterboard), but they are very useful for ground handling. If your car
isn't huge, you might even need brakes below 750kg.

Twin axle is nice. They make it more stable to drive and more stable to
load. However, it will increase costs as you have twice as much of most of
the mechicanal components, although for the same trailer rating, lower rated
(i.e. cheaper) components can be used as the load is shared.

So, if you're going for a single axle braked, I'd get something like:

BB1300 1300kg braked suspension unit * 2 = 217.04
SW385J6 185x13 6ply 4x5.5"pcd * 2 = 193.64
PH15 Peak Coupling 1500kg A/R 43mm J/W = 116.01
Total = 526.69 (rated up to 1300kg, upgradable to 1500kg cheaply if
required)

For twin axle, I'd get
BB750 750kg braked suspension unit * 4 = 412.84
SW150C6 500x10 6ply 4x4" pcd = 146.64
PH15 Peak Coupling 1500kg A/R 43mm J/W = 116.01
Total = 675.49 (rated up to 1500kg)
This could cheaply be upgraded to much higher ratings if required.

Single axle unbraked is much cheaper:
TG750 750kg short stub suspension unit * 2 = 57.88
HG505S hub 4x4" pcd 1" dia stub *2 = 30.50
SW150C6 500X10 6ply 4x4" pcd = 73.32
BA254 Al-Ko 50mm coupling 50mm box = 15.05
Total = 175.75 (rated to 750kg)
This ratng can't be increased. There will be no handbrake or vehicle service
braking.

If buying any of these components, check with the supplier that they are
indeed compatible.

The braked versions will also require a number of sundries, such as brake
balance plates, etc. These are not expensive.

Then you just need some angle iron and a welder. I'm sure you can find some
designs with a little searching. You can fit the sides and floor with
plywood or mesh as you see fit. Make sure it is strong enough for your
chosen rating.

The suspension units just bolt onto the chassis near the middle. Ensure that
empty, it weighs down on the coupling. Don't forget the electrics, which are
simple as anything.

Christian.


Twin axle has many advantages, but if you intend man handeling the
thing, the extra tyres make it a real PITA to turn.

Rick