Trailer choices

[Valkiera]

As I see it, since I'm not in a position to weld. I have 3 choices for my 5x8 base. All three are bolt together, the HF with sides and ramp, a RedTrailer, and one from Northern Tool.

My plan is to build the Generic Benroy, with a couple modifications. I am really hoping to build it as a woody, fully insulated. It will be towed with a Ranger FX4, so tongue and towing weight shouldn't be an issue.

http://www.redtrailers.com/ShowTrailer.asp?id=7
To my untrained eye, the Red Trailer seems to have many of the points covered for a solid base. Other then larger wheels and tires (if I have read things correctly I can replace them since they are 5 bolt). It seems to have the longer tongue, a space for a box upfront; I can extend the trailer, and move the axle, as required. Would there be any advantage or need to upgrade the axle? Since they offer it, I thought I'd ask.

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/ ... _200356494
The Northern Tool trailer has many of the same desirable appointments. It is already rated at 1980 GVWR. And again it looks that I can upgrade to larger tires and wheels.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/d ... mber=93747
Seems I'm paying for a lot of metal I'm just going to toss (or maybe reuse). However we do have a HF an hours drive away, I'd be able to do away with shipping, and see the condition of the boxes.

I see bearings come up as an issue for may of these trailers. Is it best to just replace them with a better quality off the bat, or make sure you have a replacemet set at hand? Will putting larger wheels and tires matter to my hubs and bearings, so long as I have the proper offset?

I'm just not sure which will provide the best bang for my buck. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Val

[wannabefree]

Having built on an HF bolt together trailer (and not having driven it other than to get it licensed) I suggest a 4th option: Have one welded up. It's not that much more expensive (even at 2x or 3x worth the difference), and you will get exactly what you want, at least to your ability to describe it. It will be made with better steel, won't warp, won't develop stress cracks at bolt holes, can accommodate shocks, and will be better in every other respect.