Getting Started....build vs buy

[NUNGUN-SISTER]

Good morning all... as you can see by the number of my postings I am very new here.
I am looking to build a tear drop based on the '47 Ken Skill Model 10 design.

But.. I have my first of many questions to get me started.

In your opinion...When it comes to the trailer chassis...build or buy?

I do have access to a complete fab shop, where I will build everything...including the chassis if need be, but in your experiences, is it more prudent to just purchase a new trailer chassis and skip that step, or is it more cost effective for me to build it?

Thank you in advance for any and all replies!

Sister

[madjack]

...buying is probably the most cost effective...BUT, to be able have EXACTLY what you want is absolutely priceless...you will find with a store bought trailer, you may well spend more by the time you modify it to suit your actual needs...plus, knowing exactly what you have Vs. a store bought(read cheap) unit..........
madjack

[Cliffmeister2000]

My next build, I will build the chassis. (with a little help from my welding friends!)

[NUNGUN-SISTER]

ok so lets say I build the chassis, would you suggest the use of a straight axle, spring axle or a torque flex set up?

I cant imagaine these trailers weighing all that much.

[alffink]

everything MadJack passed along, plus you like the KenSkill

Now I have nothing against the red trailers, I built my Cubby on a HF, but they come with 12" wheels and many with 10" wheels now

And that would not look right on a KenSkill copy, I up-graded axel and wheels about two years ago now, am very happy that I did.

Build what you want, to get what you want

[Cliffmeister2000]

There's a different answer to that for everybody on this board!

I feel more comfortable with spring axles, but I don't see any real issues with torsion axles. If, by straight axle, you mean without suspension, you don't want to do that.

[nevadatear]

Most the repeat/commercial builders are going with the torsion axle. We went with the springs and fine with it. Ground clearance may have some impact on your decision. Torsion/flex sit lower to the ground than the spring axles.

[NUNGUN-SISTER]

I looked at the HF chassis and decided not to go that route...I am factory direct with Wells Cargo threw work, so I thought about going that route...but they are back logged and I think I could build it faster here..and you are right..to the specs I want.

Thanks for the in put!

CM2000 - I think I will go with a spring axle set up as well! any suggestions as to what to stay away from?

[NUNGUN-SISTER]

wait wait wait.... I see I posted a response to early... Nevadatear you have a great point! I am looking for that low profile look.

I just purchased a torque flex set up for a trailer we are building here at work, we use them here because they can handle the weight a little better than a standard spring set up.. I just didnt want something that was over kill for such a small trailer.

BTW.....VERY NICE TRAILER you have there Nevadatear!

[Cliffmeister2000]

I bent my axle, a 2000 lb axle, with my 1300 lb trailer. Replaced it with a 3,500 lb axle, but kept the 2000 lb springs.

With torsion, you want to be much closer to the weight of your rig. I don't know the formula, but I've seen folks posting that they used a torsion axle set up for 1200 lbs on a 1000 lb trailer.

You can also get drop axles for spring setups.

One thing about torsion axles - the suspension is not serviceable, so if the rubber (elastomer?) that provides the suspension goes out, you have to replace the axle. However, the torsion axle will probably outlast your teardrop in most cases, with proper care.

[ebonbetta]

Seeing this post makes me wonder+ which type would be best for badly washboarded roads ?

[nevadatear]

Thanks for the compliments on the trailer, we sure love it. We noticed the difference in the heights when checking out trailers at a recent gathering. Vacations-in- a can was camped next to us (great trailer, by the way-exceptional wood working craftsmanship) and we noticed how much closer to the ground they were than ours. May want to check out their website to get an idea. Camp inn and I think little guy use the flex as well. Doug and Grant and JuneauDave build on them too. We are actually happy with the higher ride with the springs as we do a bit of off road, and it rides great behind the TV , but that is the nice thing about your own build, do what YOU want! This is Debbie and my job was finishing, not frame building, so that is as much as I know about that! Randy's the welder and built the frame. We used a simple and cheap northern tool axel with Lowe's trailer tires! Our TD is 1100 pounds.

[NUNGUN-SISTER]

Ill make sure to look into those other trailers as well, and get some ideas!

Thanks for the heads up!

Sister

[doug hodder]

I've built 4 with a 3500# 4" drop axle and softer springs...I really like that set up. 1 with a torsion, a standie. Doug

[madjack]

I've used both Dexter and FlexiRide torsion axles...2000# rated axle derated to 1500#s and have been VERY happy with that setup........
madjack