ridecamp@endurance.net: [endurance] Trailers

[endurance] Trailers

Diane E. Nelson (nelsonde@ttown.apci.com)
Thu, 7 Mar 1996 14:33:45 -0500 (EST)

This will be an endorsement for Collin-Arndt trailers. I'm a big fan of
FRP (fiberglass re-inforced plywood) because it won't corrode in acid
rain & maintains it's like-new finish for years with little or no
maintenance. They put pressure-treated 2x4's on the floor. The FRP can
be drilled for any modifications or additions for hooks & do-dads within
you needing to be a master carpenter.

Collin-Arndt bends over backwards to put together exactly what you want
in a trailer & doesn't "nickle & dime" you to death over every little
extra light or hook. Their prices are very competitive (beats Hart by a
lot when everything is tallied).

BUT--these suckers are heavy & you'd best have a decent truck to pull
them.

They also make aluminum, same top quality, same good price. Wood
floor--they feel that the aluminum floors won't hold up unless properly
sloped for drainage and require a lot of extra care. Aluminum isn't as
friendly for the do-it-yourselfer. And if you can't afford the goodies
that go into living quarters right away, you still need to have it framed
in at the outset as if the cabinetry, etc. were going in. It's harder to
retrofit.

We just bought our 3rd trailer from them--each time upgrading to more
luxury. We're "under-roof" now with small living space.

Trailers are made in Dillsburg, PA (below Harrisburg & above Gettysburg
off rte 15). 717-432-5476 Ask for Linda.

We also considered Hart, Featherlight, & Sundowner. I'd make the Hart
the best 2nd choice, hands-down. Hart & Sundowner put equivalent framing
in their aluminum flooring--closely jointed for extra support (very
important). Check out the welds--are they even and uniform? Look for
torsion axles and get oversized (5200# usually recommended, go higher if
available). Check for jagged edges (you wouldn't believe what we found
in new trailers) & places where a horse can get hung up. Everything has
to come apart--by a 90 lb weakling, in a hurry!--don't negotitate on this
point!

These are commonly found on the East Coast. Not familiar with
steel/aluminum trailers from mid-to-west.

Good luck

Diane @ Safe Haven