Looks as if I'm headed in this direction...I have a fab-shop at work where I'll be welding/assembing a 6' X 12' back and side loading platform.
I'm looking for suggestions as to what are "must haves" when constructing one of these. I want a side loader to enable me to carry three quads and of course a back loading for...whatever. I'd like opinions on "anything" you find important to have on your dream trailer. It's weight will be 3000#, this way I can avoid brakes and all the tags here in Pa., it will be constructed of black-iron steel, this makes alterations and future add ons easy.

Tony

 

My dad built my trailer its an 8X12 with a V-Nose. My only complaint is that it needs to be atleast 14 feet to haul four quads. I have hauled four quads with it but it is really tight load [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]. I really like the V-Nose to put extra stuff up front. We also put a mesh screen on the front this allowed the air to flow through while traveling but keeps the rocks off the cargo. The other thing is recessed D-Ring tie downs in the floor. I wanted to go with an alumunim floor but the cost was too high. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif[/img]

 

On mine, I used expanded mesh decking for the floor. It is similar to the regular expanded mesh, but is much heavier, and is designed for carrying a load. Makes the trailer lighter, while keeping strength up, mud & slop falls through, but gravel doesn't come through. If you look at the decking carefully, you will notice it kind of has a directional look to it. If you orient it properly, gravel falls through to the ground, but gravel kicked up won't come up from the bottom. It is even strong enough you can use any opening as a place to hook your tie downs.
Also, be sure to build in loading ramps. That way you will always have them. Also, I would suggest a place to anchor a chain. You run a chain through the frame wherever you can (without scratching the paint) and padlock it to the trailer frame, theft proofing your ATVs. If you also install a locking ball coupler, you can sleep pretty sound at night.

Also, make the railing taller than you see on most of those little utility trailers. I made mine with 16" sides, instead of the usual 8" that I see on most. Either enclose with mesh, or add a second rail about halfway up, and your load will be much more secure.

Also, I recommend the 60/40 rule for axle mounting. 60% in front of the axle, 40% behind. This will ensure enough weight on the tongue for good tracking.