What to look for in a trailer?

[Robin Bobula]

I'm going to look at a homemade 6' x 10' trailer tonight. There are pictures here:

http://york.craigslist.org/rvs/745547773.html

What in particular should I be looking for that could be a problem in the future, besides any obvious crookedness or signs of damage?

I know this isn't the best price, and I would definitely try to negotiate a better price if it seems like a decent trailer, but the new ones from NF (5x8) cost as much or more at this point.

Thanks!
Robin

[asianflava]

You may want to check the tires for uneven treadwear. It would show if the wheels have a toe problem.

I guess you can also grab the wheels and check for endplay (push and pull on them).

If it is possible, jack it up ans spin the wheels. Make sure they spin freely and smooth.

Check the tongue and axle attachment area for cracked welds I guess.

For that price, you can probably get one custom made to your specs with all new tires, axle, etc. You may want to check with the others from PA, but from what I understand it is a real pain to get trailers tagged.

[mechmagcn]

Looks like an old pop-up frame. Around here you can usually buy the whole pop-up trailer for $100-150. If you are looking for a trailer to build a teardrop, that one is a little pricey for what it is.

[Robin Bobula]

Thanks for the help, everyone.

I decided not to bother with this one, but to keep searching for a pop-up I can recycle, as money is a little tight right now.

[Alphacarina]

Many times, saving a little on the frame results in spending more later on. There are many places to save a buck or two . . . . but I wouldn't do it with the frame. If you're going to invest a couple hundred hours of your time and a few hundred dollars of your money, I would begin with a good, sound frame, suitable for what you intend to build - Whatever that might cost

Don