HF trailer with 8in wheels - floor clearance

[jonwwo]

Looking at the HF 950 LB Capacity Trailer, it seems that a slightly raised floor would clear the wheels without the need for an uneven floor (no wheel cut outs with a wider than 4' cabin).


http://www.harborfreight.com/950-lb-capacity-foldable-4-ft-x-8-ft-utility-trailer-with-8-inch-wheels-and-tires-42709.html

Is this assumption true and would these small 8 inch wheels be sufficient to take on long road trips? Im planning on a light and simple trailer. No galley, painted sides, ect.

[Oldragbaggers]

Do you already have the trailer? If not, why not go a little bit more $$ and get the 1760# with 12" wheels and have no worries?

[absolutsnwbrdr]

You might be able to get away with 2x2 framing, but it could be close. I used the "heavy duty" HF trailer with 12" wheels and built my floor up using 2x4's. Havent had any issues with rubbing, and I just got back from a trip that consisted of 10 miles of rutted out dirt forest service roads.

The lower section in the rear is for the galley.

[Oldragbaggers]

Actually Zach, I think it's the added height of the beer bottles that made things work out so well for you!

[bobhenry]

It take a fuzz over 4" to clear the fenders.

[jeff0520]

I'm using the HF 1920 lb trailer with 12 " wheels. I answered that question by measuring the clearance between the axle and the frame, and calling that my maximum suspension travel. I built the floor framing, and measured the clearance between the top of the tire and the top of the frame. I discovered that the tire could potentially rub the floor if the suspension bottomed out. I ended up building a 1 inch tall raised wheel well. I'd rather have had a flat floor, but I'd MUCH rather know for certain I'm not going to have an issue with tires rubbing.

[48Rob]

I don't own a red trailer and so don't know if they come with slipper springs...if they do then please disregard...

If you have shackles attaching the leaf spring to the rear spring hangers, you can install longer shackles and reduce the amount of build up height you need to clear the fenders.

2" longer shackles will get you 1" of trailer height.

Rob

[len19070]

I did it with the 12" tire's.





Happy Trails

Len

[Tabazooron]

Is the speed rating different for the 8" & 12" wheels?

[synaps3]

Is the speed rating different for the 8" & 12" wheels?

Both tell you not to exceed 55mph on the rims. I'd imagine the 12" wheels are more forgiving though.

My utility trailer is on a HF frame with 12" wheels, it's been up to 90mph before, while hauling about 1000lbs of dirt bike and gear. It's got easily 10k miles on it, at least 3/4 of those over 55mph with no issue. I carry a spare just in case though.