Tackling the question of cost before starting a project is always a challenge. There can be a lot involved, yet, it is pretty important. So, we will take a look at the process of estimating cost prior to starting a project. In this article, to illustrate, we will use the example
Articles > Mechanics Tips
We can all use Tips for Building, Planning and Fabricating with DIY Projects. Below is a list of articles with insights for success with our plans, details for expediting construction, and general items for success when you do it yourself. If you have something to contribute, please let us know. If you want to see tips on a certain topic, let us know that too. This is the Do-It-Yourself portal, and these Mechanics Tips are for you! Enjoy! – See all the Mechanic’s Posts here.
What Is Axle Overhang? How Much Is OK?
When you get into the details, trailer axles are not as simple as we often like to think. Dimensions we most often discuss are: Capacity (strength), Spring Centers (where they mount on the trailer frame), and Hub Face (distance between the wheels). These all
Single Trailer Axle or Tandem Axles
(for the Same Capacity)
Question from a customer: “Do you have any articles that speak about single axle vs double axle advantages?” Specifically, with the same load carrying capacity. Something like a 14 foot trailer with a single axle @ 7,000 lbs – or – 2 axles at @ 3,500 lbs each?
The “RV Standard” For Trailer Wire Colors
Starting at the main wiring connector, trailer wire colors help us trace the conductors to all the proper electrical connections. The colors are specified by the various wiring standards such as the SAE ( Traditional ) standards, or the newer RV Standard for trailer wiring.
Shock Absorbers For Trailers?
For good ride quality in your car, Shock Absorbers are super important. So why don’t they use more shock absorbers for trailers? Do they make a difference with trailer ride? These are good questions that need a some background,
Stainless Steel Bolts
In the previous articles in our Bolts 101 series, we spoke briefly about Stainless Steel Bolts, but we did not discuss specifics. With typical alloy steel bolts, there are grades (like Grade 5, Grade 8, etc.), but with Stainless Steel, Brass, Plastics and other materials, it is not that simple.
Where Is The Weight In Your Trailer?
What’s the big deal with Weight in my Trailer? Isn’t Weight just Weight? Yes, I know about tongue weight, but the trailer is made to carry weight. So, if I am below the specified weight ratings, what does it matter? If you have ever felt this way,
Bolting vs. Welding for Trailer Frames
How should I connect things as I build my trailer? Welding is a typical practice for many structural frame members, but bolting also has some great benefits. So, this makes me wonder. How do I decide where to bolt, and where to weld? Since it is usually not an all or nothing proposition, we will examine
Choosing Trailer Deck Material
“I am building a new trailer and wondering about what deck material to use? So many choices, all with various advantages and disadvantages. I probably don’t even know all the available choices. How do I decide?”
NATM Answers : Are You Trailer Safety Aware?
What do you see wrong with the way the safety chains and other trailer safety equipment are set-up in the image? That’s the question we asked in the previous article. The image is a screenshot of a YouTube video by NATM, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers.