A Look at Car Transport Trailers

If you are moving a standard passenger car and want to investigate different car transport trailer options there are many possibilities in today’s auto shipping industry offered to the discerning customer. Open carrier transport is the most popular and least expensive type of auto shipping.

In most cases, your car will be transported on an eight or 10-car hauler, the same type of trucks used to deliver new cars. These trucks are 75-80 feet long and almost 14 feet high. They can be difficult to maneuver and are limited to major roads that are free of low hanging trees and low clearance bridges. Make sure you keep this in mind when directing the truck to the pick-up location. If you want to make sure that your car stays clean, and avoids all highway wear and tear, then have your car transported in an enclosed car transport trailer.

Enclosed trailers protect your car from all road hazards and weather for the duration of the trip. Due to the premium equipment and service provided with enclosed car trailers, it is usually the most expensive option in auto shipping. The following features are often available at an additional cost: lift gates for safe horizontal loading, ramp gates for long wheelbase vehicles, and winches for inoperable vehicles.

This car transport trailer option is excellent for costly or exotic cars. Some other popular enclosed trailer options for secure car transport are: six-car enclosed trailers, four-car enclosed trailers, and two-car non-stacking enclosed trailers. Multi-car or enclosed transport sometimes can't be used due to height and width issues. Be sure to check the specs of the trailer and the size of your car.

Some drivers prefer to transport their own vehicle. It is best to learn from a trained professional some of the nuances of moving cars. When you buy or rent a trailer ask for basic driving instructions and transport hints. There are some car transport trailer companies that will custom build your own trailer the way you want it. This option will depend on your budget and your specific needs.

When choosing the proper car transport trailer for your car, discuss the length and weight of your car with the car trailer company to ensure it is within legal load specifications. More over if you are renting or buying, look for companies with large inventories and factory stock so you can avoid waiting for the trailer that you want.

Finding the appropriate car transport trailer to fit your specific needs and budget should be an easy task providing that you know you budget limitations, special travel requirements for your car, and length of trip. In today’s market there are literally hundreds of car transport trailer options out there, and you can count on finding the right one for you in no time at all.


Trailer Accessories

bike trailer | car hauler | dump trailers | tandem axle trailer | utility trailer

Trailers are of significance and are used for many purposes. They are widely used to lift heavy equipments including machinery, bikes, cars and tractors. Before buying trailers, the first thing to know is the kind of trailer you need and the best place to buy them. Trailers should be powerful so that they do not encounter problems and the task is carried out easily. Always buy from an authorized dealer who provides full warranty. There are a wide range of trailers that are meant for specific purposes. The different kinds of trailers include:

• Single axle series- include bike trailer and ATV hauler, mostly used for off-road or turf actions.

• Tandem axle trailer series- includes both general duty and heavy duty range of trailers. Tandem axle trailer is powerfully built.

• Auto and flatbed series- includes tandem axle trailers with open flatbed design available in both wood floor and steel floor. This is one of the most efficient car hauler series of the company.

• Equipment series- includes hydraulic tilt bed vehicle haulers and heavy equipment haulers.

• Cycle series- includes bike trailer series, specially designed with Equalizer Torsion Axles, chrome wheels and a rugged all-steel body.

There are also specially designed trailers, including:

• Fleet neck trailers- designed specifically for heavy duty vehicles. These trailers are equipped with heavy duty dove and ramp package so that no discrepancy occurs while using them. There are seven different models of fleet neck trailers available in stores. These are mainly farm and ranch, heavy equipment and vehicle hauling trailers. The trailer series is equipped with Sealed Modular Wiring Harness that enhances the electrical system.

• Work horse trailers- include dump trailers. There are seven different models of dump trailers for heavy duty vehicles. They are equipped with dual tandem and self contained factory hydraulic hoist. There is also a fleet neck model available in the series. This series also has a sealed Modular Wiring Harness to increase the efficiency of the electrical system.

• Ranger trailers- include economy trailers. There are seven different models available in the ranger series with 48” ramp gate, spare tire/wheel and “v” tongue tilt bed. Ranger series include very efficient utility trailers- ranger single axle utility trailer, tandem axle utility trailer and heavy duty utility trailer. 

The trailer industry demands the use of alkyd-based enamel paints on the trailers since they retaining gloss for a longer duration. Hence, all the products of Diamond C Trailers are specially painted with Valspar Supreme Acrylic enamel so as to provide quality products. Whether they are dump trailers, utility trailers, bike trailer or Tandem axle trailer, all are fitted with Safety Chains with spring loaded hooks. For an elegant appearance, Car Haulers and Utility trailers are dyed black. The trailers are electric wire brushed when they are in the processing stage.

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Safety Tips For Towing Your Car Or Boat

If you restore antique cars, ride dirt bikes or own a boat, it’s important to know how to tow a vehicle properly. Driving while towing can be hazardous if you don’t follow simple safety tips.

Suzuki, manufacturer of a variety of vehicles for outdoor enthusiasts, suggests the following guidelines for towing:

* Always use safety chains and follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching them. Safety chains are required and should be crossed under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Do not attach them to the bumper. Leave enough slack so you can turn, and make sure the safety chains do not drag on the ground.

* Be sure the brake lights, taillights and turn signals of the towed vehicle operate in sync with the vehicle being driven. This is a requirement in all 50 states. You can use brake/signal light accessory kits, which are strapped or magnetically connected to the rear of the vehicle being towed.

* Use the right tow vehicle. Before purchasing a tow vehicle, it’s best to determine the maximum weight you might tow and then match that weight to a vehicle of your choice. For example, the 2006 Grand Vitara can tow up to 3,000 pounds.

* Practice steering before hitting the highway. Remember that when backing up, the trailer turns the opposite way you turn your wheel. Experts suggest placing your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and moving it the way you want the trailer to go when in reverse. Make slow, easy steering adjustments.

* Anticipate stops and brake early.

* Make certain the load in the trailer is secured so that the load can’t move or shift.

Copied with permission from: http://plrplr.com/10795/safety-tips-for-towing-your-car-or-boat/

Utility Trailers: Different Types And Uses

Are you planning a long haul trip or moving house with your family to another city? And are you a bit worried about the management of your furniture and possessions? How will you carry items like beds, cupboards, your play station, clothes, and all the other things? How would you manage? Well the answer is simple, get yourself a utility trailer.

A utility trailer is an engine-less and a motor-less trailer used to carry items. It is pulled by a powered vehicle with engine. It might be your car or might be a truck. . Utility trailers are used all over the world for transportation of heavy goods for long distances. Trailers can carry large number of goods at a time. Utility trailers are used for transporting almost anything. They can be used as bike trailers, car trailers, truck trailers or snowmobile trailers. Let’s discuss some aspects of utility trailers here.

Types of Utility trailers
Utility trailers are basically available as enclosed and open utility trailers. Open utility trailers are the one which do not provide coverage to the cargo from external elements. If weather is not a problem for you, buying an open utility trailer would be a wise and economical choice. These open trailers usually range from about $900 to $2500.

You can buy a utility trailer if you are planning to start a small landscaping business. You can carry your essential equipments quite easily in this trailer. Open utility trailers are also lighter as compared to enclosed trailers. On the other hand enclosed utility trailers provide security to your cargo. They combine essential features of weather protection and theft protection. These trailers are lockable to give your cargo maximum protection. These trailers cost around $1600-$5000. There are several other types of utility trailers available to you.

• Boat Trailers
• Small Box Trailers
• Flat Bed Trailers
• Stock Trailers
• Van Trailers
• Semi Trailers– if pulled by a power unit of less than 26,000 GVW
• Pole Trailers– if pulled by a power unit of less than 26,000 GVW
• Horse Trailers

Utility trailers are made, keeping in mind some basic things like strength, towing stability, versatility and flexibility. By versatility of a utility trailer we mean that it should be able to accommodate various load equipments like snowmobile, automobiles and much more. By flexibility we mean that it should be adjustable to varying hauling requirements. Basically a trailer should have enough strength and durability to carry the requisite amount of load which is required, without too many hassles.

Utility Trailer- sizes and elements
Utility trailers are available in different sizes and shapes as per your needs. The sizes of utility trailers vary extensively such as 5 x 8/10, 5.3 x 8, 6.4 x 16 and many more. Manufacturers from all over the world make 5x 10 utility trailers for general usage.

The size of the trailer bed is 5 ft. x 8/10 ft long. Maximum capacities of trailer beds vary. A general capacity of a 5 x 10 utility trailer is 3500 pounds. The capacities of trailers vary as they differ in size. It could go up to 24,000 pounds. This weight is inclusive of the trailer weight.

Utility trailers are made up of steel or aluminum. They have a floating axle, which allows them to adjust to different load requirements. It also contains a long tongue for vehicle maneuverability and spacing. A utility trailer also includes heavy-duty spring suspensions, wheels, tires, safety chain and side lighting. A utility trailer has an essential back bumper. Trailer brakes form an essential part of utility trailers. Though the usage of a trailer is dependent on load and the tow vehicle, still they make a considerable part of utility trailers. Trailer lights, rear lights and running lights are also an important component of utility trailers.

Before Buying a Utility Trailer
Buying a utility trailer certainly fulfills your needs, but what exactly is your need. The first thing before buying a utility trailer is discovering your need— why you want to buy it.

You should consider the type of braking system you want for your utility trailer. You can choose from the electric braking and surge braking.

You should carefully check the trailer for bolts. If a trailer is joined by a good number of bolts, you should not consider buying it; instead consider buying a trailer which is welded together.

Further ask a lot of question on various aspects of utility trailers from the dealer. Clarify any concerns with your dealer to ensure that you are buying the right trailer for you. And enjoy hassle-free load transportation.

More information on trailers

Over Weight and Over Heating

Vehicle weight is a major issue that many Four Wheel Drive owners are often unaware of or just ignore. This is not only a performance issue but also a safety issue and not just for the vehicle owner but also for other road users. At Berrima Diesel Service ( www.berrimadiesel.com.au ) they usually see half a dozen 4WDs in their workshop every day for tuning, performance problems or turbo charging. During the process of their work they weigh the vehicles as part of the job. They do this as they have most vehicles coming in for a power gain. It might end up with the power gain at the wheels, but it may not push the vehicle as thought. This is where the weighing process comes in, sometimes with surprising results. They utilize a modern electronic weighbridge that is accurate to within 10kg.

Considering that the average 4WD truck only has a payload capacity of just over half a tonne, it doesn't take long to swallow that up with 2 or 4 occupants, oils in the engine, diffs, gearbox, fuel in the tank/s, the normal accessories like bull bar, tow-bar, heavier suspension (big springs and shocks are literally heavier). Even different tires can weigh substantially more than standard .Generally, the big wagons have a maximum GVM (max loaded weight) of 2.9 tonne to 3.1 tonne. Berrima Diesel see the average ones weighing 2.9 tonne to 3 tonnes and they are certainly not loaded for a trip. When they get the accessorized big wagons in they start to reach towards 3.2 tonnes and they have seen the odd 100 series Landcruiser in their workshop, obviously with a lack of power problem, weighing in at 3.5 tonnes. When you talk Troopers, they regularly weigh over their GVM as they are stacked up with all the heavy gear needed for the trip. Large steel fuel tanks not only carry a lot more fuel (weight) but weigh in surprisingly more than the factory poly or tin tank. One recent GU Patrol went over 3 tonne and the vehicle wasn't what you would call heavily modified, just the usual 'steel gear'.

A big problem arising from the ever increasing weight of 4WD's is fuel consumption. A standard 4WD diesel can start off with a happy consumption figure of around 10-12 liters/100km only to have it blow out to 16ltres/100km once modified.

Tyre blowouts are common on a lot of trips and this is an area that weight can have a huge effect. Standard tires are designed to work within the working parameters of the vehicle but once it is over weighted the standard tires are often working very close to their maximum weight limit. Throw in an extremely hot road and the working weight of the tire gets lower. When considering loading up next time, check the loaded weight of the vehicle and check the combined load rating of the tires. Make sure you have a good percentage of difference between the tires and the weight of the 4WD they are carrying. Eg. probably 20% to 30% less weight of the vehicle than the maximum tire carrying load.
Wheel bearings are another thing to consider. Make sure that they are greased if you are carrying weight.

Overweight vehicles are the main reason for performance problems. Not only that but they are often illegally overweight. Ask the people how much they think their 4WD weighs and the general answer is 2.2 tonne or 2.4 tonne. When Berrima Diesel explain that it weighs in at 3 tonne or more they have trouble believing it!! Add to this the 2 tonne trailer and you have, for example, a 3 liter Nissan trying to move a combined weight of 4.5 to 5 tonnes!!

Overweight vehicles can also become an insurance issue in the case of an accident. A listed weight, initiated by the accessory manufacturer on accessories, would be of a great benefit to people.

Some other areas to consider that can effect vehicle weight areas steel refrigerators, larger tires, upgraded suspension also lends itself to more weight as well as thicker springs, storage drawers, roof racks, dual batteries, different seats, HF radios. People usually need these for trips but at least an awareness of where the weight is coming from can help with controlling it.

Find a reputable weigh bridge or just turn into an RTA truck weigh bridge for free and get ready for a possible shock!

Radiators and Air flow:

*    Consider a larger radiator. Some Factory radiators are a 2 core and can be increased to a 3 core radiator.
*    Please… resist fly screens where possible.
*    Consider the size and positioning of driving lights, winch, number plates and particularly bull bar air flow.
*    Check to make sure air conditioning condenser fins are clean!!
*    If an Inter-cooler is mounted in front this can add considerably to hot air flow over the radiator and restricting air flow to the radiator.
*    Consider installing a few small bonnet vents on the left and right of the rear region of the bonnet. This has proven to be a popular addition and has huge effects on under bonnet temperatures. Considering how tight most engine bays are after a few accessories are added, this venting addition can reduce heat stress on a variety of products under the bonnet.

Engine set-up:

*    Over fueling is usually the major cause of high combustion temperatures.
*    Make sure the fuel injection system has been thoroughly checked and setup correctly.
*    If the vehicle is fitted with a turbo or super charger, over fueling may be the cause. It is very easy to over fuel a diesel once plenty of air is available as possibly no smoke under load may be visible. Visible smoke under load can be a warning of over fueling!

This article and the technical advice was taken from an interview with Andrew Leimroth of Berrima Diesel Service. Andrew is one of The Diesel Experts who have been working exclusively on diesels since 1965. His wealth of knowledge and skill with problem diesels is well known in the automotive industry.
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Trucking Safety: “I” Is for the Interactive Driver

Safety research shows drivers' behavioral styles and attitudes are a better predictor of safe driving practices than their level of safety training.  A 1993 study conducted by Behavioral-Values Research Associates showed significant behavior and attitude differences between injured and non-injured workers.

Trucking companies that obtain this information to pre-screen driver applicants have significantly reduced their accident rates, costs, workers' comp claims, and have increased driver retention.

A behavioral assessment measures a driver's  normal behavior in four areas:  D (Dominant), I (Influencing), S (Steadiness), and C (Cautious, Compliant to Standards).

The D factor determines how drivers tend to handle problems and challenges, the  I factor looks at their interactions and influence with others, the S at how they respond to the pace of the environment, and the C at how they respond to rules and regulations set by others.

A DISC behavioral assessment shows how the applicant ranks in each of the four factors from 0% to 100%. Above 50% is considered high, below 50% is low.  The higher or lower the ranking, the more intense the behavior will be.  In this article, we'll look at the highs and lows of the Core I driver.

The BVRA study showed significant differences in the D, S, and C styles of the injured versus non-injured safety workers.  But there wasn't a marked difference in the I factor between the two groups.  However, I recommend trucking companies hire drivers who are low in the I style.  Here's the reason why.

Drivers who score highest in the Influencing factor tend to be talkative, sociable, friendly, and outgoing.  They get distracted easily especially when other people are involved.  They'll get bored on long hauls with no one to talk to.  They may take extended breaks if they get into a lively conversation with someone.

Drivers with a low I factor are the opposite.  They're introverted and shy away from others.  They'll be content on a long driver where they don't have to interact with people.  They're able to pay more focused attention to their driving.

However, one of our trucking company clients wants its drivers to be somewhat, but not extremely, high in the I factor because they're required to interact frequently with their customers.  The company want drivers who are friendly and can relate well with others.

If you feel being lively and likable is important for your drivers, then hire applicants with an I ranking above the mid line.  Otherwise, select those low in the I behavioral style.

Watch for upcoming articles in which we'll discuss the drivers you most want to hire: those high in the S and C factors.  If you missed it, look for our previous article on the Core D driver.  Contact us if you can't find it and we'll send it to you.

©2006 Annette Estes.  All Rights Reserved.  Permission to reprint granted as long as entire text and tag line are included.

Auto Repair: The Top Ten Mistakes Made By Your Mechanic

Number One:

Not confirming the concern. Confirming a repair concern is a basic diagnostic principle frequently overlooked. To fix a problem, the first thing one must do is recognize it.

Number Two:
Insufficient Road Testing. The importance of a thorough road test (even for an oil change) is well documented in automotive training manuals. Yet, many technicians consider driving the vehicle into the shop good enough.

Number Three:
Misdiagnosing. For the above reasons and a multitude of others, your vehicle is misdiagnosed more often than not. Mechanics will spend hours chasing the wrong problem, wasting your time and money.

Number Four:
Throwing parts at a problem. To compensate for lack of skills, mechanics often just throw parts at the problem in the hope of getting lucky. It’s common to hear mechanics say I replaced this, this, this, and that, and the problem’s still not fixed. This goes right back to mistake number one: confirm the problem with diagnostics, then proceed.

Number Five:
Not addressing primary concerns first. Technicians often spend an inordinate amount of time looking for easy sells that will fatten their paychecks. There’s nothing wrong with this provided there’s no charge for the inspection, it doesn’t conflict with your time, and the upsell suggestions are valid (they’re frequently not). However, this type of free inspection and the subsequent upselling too often overshadows the primary concern. So…what’s wrong with my car?

Number Six:
Overconfidence. Too often unqualified technicians get in over their heads. Rather than defer to a more experienced technician or facility, they often keep going and do more harm. How’s it go…The road to hell is paved with good intentions?

Number Seven:
Taking shortcuts. In the ongoing effort to beat the clock, technicians will create a host of problems: breaking parts, snapping bolts, short circuiting sensitive electronics. Refer to Auto Repair: How Can They Screw Up an Oil Change for a great discussion.

Number Eight:
Poor Repairs. Whether through incompetence or laziness, mechanics frequently don’t do repairs correctly. It’s often sloppy work. Forgotten bolts, parts not lined up correctly, or components not re-installed properly are common. It gets worse with computer repairs: incorrect software programming, coding, and resynchronization protocols are just a few.

Number Nine:
Not confirming repairs. After a repair is complete, it’s important to re-check to ensure that the problem is indeed fixed. Too often parts are thrown in and the car is pulled out only to pull in another victim.

Number Ten:
Making a mess. If the above nine mistakes weren’t bad enough, there are now greasy fingerprints on the hood and steering wheel, and two big greasy boot marks on the carpet.

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