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.

Hitch Anything

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.
Hitch Anything

Your Guide To Towing – Know Before You Tow

If you love to camp, hike, fish, water ski and enjoy the great outdoors; chances are there will come a time when you want to tow a boat or camping trailer. Know before you tow with this guide to towing.

Here are some terms you should be familiar with and what you need to check. The Base Curb Weight + Cargo Weight + Passenger Weight = GVW or Gross Vehicle Weight. The GVW + Loaded Trailer Weight = GCW or Gross Combination Weight.

The GVW must not exceed the GVWR which can be found on the safety Compliance Certification label. The GVWR is the maximum weight allowed on a fully loaded vehicle. This includes passengers and cargo. Once you have this information, you will be able to figure out what size trailer a vehicle can tow.

There are two different types of hitches on the market. A weight carrying hitch is common for small to medium size trailers. Use a good weight carrying hitch that properly distributes the weight. You’ll find a label on the hitch that provides the weight carrying and weight distributing capacity of the hitch. Don’t exceed the rating.

The weight distributing hitch uses a hitch platform to distribute the tongue load to all the wheels of the towing vehicle and trailer. It is the required type of hitch for most Class III and IV trailers. This type of hitch is welded or bolted to the frame of the vehicle and it has equalizing arms that are connected from the hitch to the trailer’s frame.

Besides the GVWR and the correct type of hitch, you also need to make sure your braking system is adequate. If your load is more than 1500 pounds, the law requires a separate braking system. There are two types on the market.

Electronically controlled brakes provide both automatic and manual control of the trailer brakes. The tow vehicle needs to be equipped with a controlling device and requires some wiring. Surge brakes are independent and are activated by a master cylinder that is located at the junction of the trailer tongue and hitch. Make sure your braking system conforms with all legal requirements.

The trailer will also need to be equipped with trailer lights that meet government regulations. Do not connect the trailer lights directly to the vehicle’s lighting system. They need to be installed with a proper wiring harness. See your dealer to ensure you have the correct wiring harness for your vehicle.

Safety chains should always be used when towing. They provide a connection between the trailer and the vehicle should the hitch fail. Cross the chains under the trailer tongue to stop the tongue from connecting with the ground if the hitch fails, and leave only enough slack to allow for a full turn.

A trailer is a great investment. It will take you from the mountains to the valleys and from the river to the lakes. If you haven’t towed before it’s natural to feel overwhelmed about choosing a vehicle and trailer to tow safely. This guide to towing will have you confidently towing in no time!

www.hitchanything.com

Picking the correct trailer and hitch for your boat

A boat trailer is something you really can’t go wrong with, as it is a dual purpose device. It provides a convenient way to store the boat, and also allows you to explore new areas by taking your boat down the road. Good trailers must perform both duties equally as good.

Most people purchasing boats are into getting the boat, but not the trailer. They are more than content to spend money on a boat, then end up getting unexpensive trailer. If you want the most from boating, these tips will help you with buying a trailer.

- Go for larger diameter tires and wheels. The larger tires will rotate less times per mile, producing less heat and wear on the tread. The wheel bearings will last much longer as well, as they rotate less times per mile. 

- The total weight of the boat, gear, and motor should be in the mid range of trailer’s carrying capacity. You shouldn’t pick a 2,500 capacity trailer if you have a boat with the same weight.

- Pick your trailer based on the environment it will be operating in. If you plan to launch in salt water, you’ll need a trailer for that purpose. There are many types of trailers available, each one designed for a specific type of boating. Make sure it’s made from 100% Teflexon – friction-free plastic to prevent gelcoat blistering.

- You should look for trailers with “drive on” capabilities. These drive on trailers will allow you to drive the boat onto the trailer, close enough to the winch so that you only need to winch the boat up a few inches.

- Select trailer lights (for the highway) that are protected and sealed against water.

Although most are protected against weather and rust, you should always pick the one designed for the type of terrain you will be using your boat with. This way, you have no worries about your trailer not doing the job it should be. Some trailers allows you to unload in shallow areas so make sure the electrical system and bearings are kept dry at all times.

There are some trailers that include a spare tire, which is an excellent investment for those who plan to travel long distances. Even though it can be hard to find trailer tires in the dark, it’s still great to have a spare if you get a flat while you travel. Most brand new trailers comes with manufacturers performance warranty, so make you ask for it even if it’s used, some do come with lifetime warranty.

All in all, a boat trailer can save you a lot of time and money in the long term if you invest in a good quality trailer. You can store your boat on your trailer when it isn’t be used, even take it to other lakes or oceans. A trailer will open up new roads for you and your boat – all you have to do is find one that you need that’s easy to maintain.