new enclosed trailer [maybe aluminum] feedback

Dragsinger · 12-22-2019, 08:45 PM

Racers,

I am beginning the research in ref to a new enclosed trailer [this will be my 4th trailer in the last 25 years so I have some experience about what I need]

For this new trailer, I will be downsizing to a 20 foot. Also, I am looking at the "V" nose option with a front ramp door on the "V" That front door sure looks to be handy.

Otherwise, it will be a basic model because I no longer do multi-day events and only carry a few basic supplies and tools.

For those of you who have an aluminum trailer, let me hear from you. The lighter weight is attractive from the standpoint of towing.

Ed Wright · 12-23-2019, 08:38 PM

Larry, I have had my ATC all aluminum 24’ enclosed trailer for about five years now.
Ordered it with 4 wheel brakes. Towing it, it “feels” no heavier than my old steel open trailer. I just tow mine with the same old ‘99 454” 2500 2wd Suburban. The ATC also has an aluminum Frame under it. I would certainly buy another. Lighter saves gas when towing as well. Nice floor, cabinets & interior.

63corvette · 12-23-2019, 09:17 PM

You will not be disappointed if you purchase a good quality aluminum frame trailer.
They will pay for the extra they cost due to the weight when towing and maintenance.
They are easier on fuel, brakes, and tires to begin with.
Do buy quality, not cheap.
Some trailers are built out of cheaper quality aluminum.
Most of the higher priced aluminum trailers use aircraft quality material and will basically last forever without cracks and the welds will not crack or break.
If you buy cheap you can in some cases have cracking and weld issues.
I have owned several aluminum trailers over the years and would only buy another aluminum frame one if I ever buy another.
My current trailer is a Renegade aluminum frame with FRP sides and roof as I live in hail country and hail does not hurt the FRP or it has not yet.
Just My 2 Cents
Rick Cates
Canyon, TX

John Dinkel · 12-24-2019, 10:21 AM

My Gold Rush is about 30 years old and still going strong. Keep the bearings and brakes in good shape and good tires too.

12-22-2019, 08:45 PM	#1
Dragsinger VIP Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Liberty City [East Texas] Posts: 1,760 Likes: 5 Liked 99 Times in 60 Posts	new enclosed trailer [maybe aluminum] feedback Racers, I am beginning the research in ref to a new enclosed trailer [this will be my 4th trailer in the last 25 years so I have some experience about what I need] For this new trailer, I will be downsizing to a 20 foot. Also, I am looking at the "V" nose option with a front ramp door on the "V" That front door sure looks to be handy. Otherwise, it will be a basic model because I no longer do multi-day events and only carry a few basic supplies and tools. For those of you who have an aluminum trailer, let me hear from you. The lighter weight is attractive from the standpoint of towing. __________________ Larry Woodfin 471W

12-23-2019, 08:38 PM	#2
Ed Wright Veteran Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Sand Springs, OK Posts: 8,132 Likes: 896 Liked 390 Times in 170 Posts	Re: new enclosed trailer [maybe aluminum] feedback Larry, I have had my ATC all aluminum 24’ enclosed trailer for about five years now. Ordered it with 4 wheel brakes. Towing it, it “feels” no heavier than my old steel open trailer. I just tow mine with the same old ‘99 454” 2500 2wd Suburban. The ATC also has an aluminum Frame under it. I would certainly buy another. Lighter saves gas when towing as well. Nice floor, cabinets & interior. __________________ Ed Wright 4156 SS/JA

12-23-2019, 09:17 PM	#3
63corvette Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Canyon, Tx Posts: 551 Likes: 127 Liked 353 Times in 102 Posts	Re: new enclosed trailer [maybe aluminum] feedback You will not be disappointed if you purchase a good quality aluminum frame trailer. They will pay for the extra they cost due to the weight when towing and maintenance. They are easier on fuel, brakes, and tires to begin with. Do buy quality, not cheap. Some trailers are built out of cheaper quality aluminum. Most of the higher priced aluminum trailers use aircraft quality material and will basically last forever without cracks and the welds will not crack or break. If you buy cheap you can in some cases have cracking and weld issues. I have owned several aluminum trailers over the years and would only buy another aluminum frame one if I ever buy another. My current trailer is a Renegade aluminum frame with FRP sides and roof as I live in hail country and hail does not hurt the FRP or it has not yet. Just My 2 Cents Rick Cates Canyon, TX

12-24-2019, 10:21 AM	#4
John Dinkel Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Pinckney, Michigan Posts: 507 Likes: 399 Liked 263 Times in 68 Posts	Re: new enclosed trailer [maybe aluminum] feedback My Gold Rush is about 30 years old and still going strong. Keep the bearings and brakes in good shape and good tires too. __________________ John Dinkel 3295 STK