Modifying 5x8 Bolt-Together Northern Tool Trailer

[phillyswift]

Hi Folks:

I am a newbie here and thank the moderators and contributors of this site for all the information provided that will definitely save me a lot of mistakes, money and heartache as I build my teardrop camper.

I just purchased a bolt together 5x8 trailer from Northern Tool. Many bloggers state that bolt togethers must be augmented by welding all the contacts, and adding extra angle iron to the sides. Other forums say it's not necessary - except adding some loctite to the bolts. I think I can do everything else on my project except welding, so I admit to being hesitant (and maybe not objective) about this requirement since I would greatly increase my budget by hiring a welder.

Question: Does a Northern Tool bolt-together need to be modified with extra iron and welding?

Thanks.

[CarlLaFong]

Well, I don't think Northern Tool thinks so. I'll bet my next SS check that there is a disclaimer, somewhere in the instructions, that states the warranty will be voided if any modifications are made to the structure. I'm not saying that welding it is a bad idea, just that the product liability lawyers are all waiting, wringing their hands in anticipation, for any product to fail. That being the case, I know Northern has made sure that their trailers are safe and, somewhat, over engineered for their intended use

[phillyswift]

Good point, Carl. Thanks for your input.

[les45]

I'm using a DIY Northern Tool 5X8 for my weekender and I saw no need to do anything more than bolt it together like the instructions say. I didn't even use Loctite on my bolts since I believe that the nylon lock nuts are plenty adequate if tightened properly. One thing that I would recommend is that you go back and check every nut and bolt for tightness after you put the entire thing together. Mostly because you will forget to tighten one while you are building it. Also, keep in mind that the superstructure of your teardrop will be adding a lot of strength to the trailer frame so bolt it on good.

As to the DIY trailers, I have owned a 4X8 Harbor Freight trailer for many years, using it for general hauling. It has essentially the same frame components as the NT trailer. I have put thousands of miles and loaded it to the limit and have never had a problem.

Go with your basic trailer per the instructions, double check the tightness of your bolts when you get through with assembly, and start making sawdust.

[phillyswift]

Glad to hear that Les. Thanks!

[wagondude]

If you do decide to do the welding mods, it won;t break the bank. The welders around here have a small job flat rate. Those types of mods would only cost $25-50 for the welding plus the cost of the steel.