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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.

Structural Trailer Beams

Things To Know For Dovetail & Gooseneck Frames When you need to connect structural trailer beams – a major beam – like a trailer main beam, strength is really important.  Two good examples are

Estimate Cost to Build a Trailer

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

What is Axle Overhang?

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?

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?

SAE v. RV Standard 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 Absorber

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.

Trailer Load Distribution

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 and Welding

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…

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?”