Articles & Build Tips – From the Mechanic
Join the discussion with the Mechanic on DIY Project topics including News, Build Tips and Engineering Perspective. DIY is our specialty. Trailers, Shop Tools, Cranes, and more. Enjoy the articles, then comment when things catch your attention. To filter the articles, select a category from the top line. For a subject you want to see, please request it. This site is for you.
You have the heavy-duty pickup, and you built the perfect trailer. Now you are ready to haul – but someone mentions, “You might need a CDL for that.” Wait, what? But, this is for personal use! It is not commercial.
Trailer frames typically fall into one of three styles: – 1) Wheels outboard of the trailer frame; 2) Trailer frame side extension around the wheels; or 3) Trailer deck over the wheels. These 3 are in the image above, left to right.
It seems like choosing trailer tires should be easy. Yet, finding the right tires for your situation means deciphering code hidden in plain sight on the sidewall. Get it right, and you will significantly reduce the chances of being stranded
This real-world example of failure shows how a weak trailer design can lead to dangerous problems. This family was lucky, yet they paid a price. If you are shopping for a trailer, this story is for you – to learn before you buy.
Every great adventure starts at the beginning – and that includes each Mini Camper, Teardrop Trailer, and Bug-Out style rig. They all have some unique needs. Yet, one thing all have in common – they each need a solid chassis as a foundation.
While this customer story is a little outside the normal, it is certainly a fun way to think about trailers. Sit back and enjoy the story of a small bike, and the fun motorcycle trailer. With fun photos. Here is the story.
What are your worst trailer towing fears? Think about the big ones. Yes, many fears are embedded in bad experiences, or things you have seen or heard from others with bad experiences. Of course, some fears are irrational, but they too effect the trailer towing persona.
This customer story is about how this one-of-a-kind Dumping Flatbed Trailer (deck-over dumper) came to be. This trailer is unique, his own design, with plenty of consideration. Here is the story, in the words of the builder.
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 the Gooseneck (or 5th Wheel), and the Dovetail.
Where can we find good U-Bolts in just the right size? I have done a bunch of things to fabricate them over the years because I could not find a good source. Well, that just changed. I have a new favorite source to get nearly any size U-Bolt