Newbie Trailer Question wanting to do it right

[DoctahDeane]

Hi folks - I have read a lot so far and I just ordered a trailer hitch and wiring harness (yes I am starting from SCRATCH). I am leaning heavily to a Modernaire/Cub design, wood exterior. My question is this: I see lots of info about trailer kits and trailers welded and built from scratch. I expect that my build will be mid-range in terms of weight. Therefore, what should I do in terms of a trailer. The budget is not hugely important as I see this as the most essential component and of course, less is better but I'm a little torn between off the shelf kits and build/welds which seem like they would be stronger, etc. One design I saw had great 14' tires with nice hubcaps and was not a kit trailer so I assume if you want extra "polish" that might demand building your own. My friend is a good welder/mechanic but 2 1/2 hours south of me. I might get two days out of him before I felt guilty . Any advice? I appreciate any anyone has to offer. Thanks!

[pchast]

Hi,

In order to build that trailer you need to make decisions about your
Build. Have you any idea the size you want and how many sq ft of
material it will take. An estimate of that weight will help
determine the strength and running gear that you need.

Luck with it.

[les45]

It really boils down to your personal preference. The kit trailers come in capacities that will handle the weight of most any teardrop style you will build. The HF trailers are the least expensive at about $300 while others like the NT will be closer to $500. Most come with the smaller 12" wheels but you will find lots of testimonies from forum members as to how well they hold up. Many have put thousands of miles on them with no problems. The wheels on the DIY trailers can be upgraded up to a point. Custom trailers will cost double or more if you have someone else do the fabrication but you can tailor them to your liking especially when it comes to axles, tires, and overall dimensions to match your design. If you are on a budget, then the DIY trailers should be considered. If your budget is unlimited, then build it the way you want. In the end, you will be happy either way. Lots of experienced forum members here to help you through the process.

[DoctahDeane]

Thanks a lot guys. I understand that there is a wealth of info here and that my question was very general. I guess I got "wooed" by a few designs I saw that had really fancy wheels and fenders. I really don't want to mess with axles and fabrication so much. Would prefer to focus on the aesthetics and the inside comfort, lighting, etc. Anyway, thanks a lot for the encouragement and info. Hitch arrives Tuesday so perhaps if I order a trailer kit this weekend, I would actually have a working platform in July. That would be exciting. Seeing this as a winter project buyt it would be great to have the notion of mobility at least, before the snow flies. Thanks again!