Channel iron

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I had a customer ask me to to put the flat of the channel on the inside of the trailer frame he is wanting built. He wants it this way so that the lights have a little more protection. the floor will be tread plate. My question is, does the position of the channel change the strength? It would make assembly faster as there would be no notching just cut to length and weld, would cut a lot of time as there will be 5 of these trailers for now and the possibility for more down the road. I've always built them with the flat out and hadn't considered this option."Liberalism is a mental disorder" Dr. Savage
Reply:If the flat of the channel is vertical makes no difference in strength if it faces in or out.
Reply:In my opinion the flat out looks more professional, and also allows light loads to be strapped to the bottom leg of the channel since it's turned in.  Most trailers with the flat out have rub bars along the side for light protection and to allow for stake pockets, etc.  The rub bars also protect the straps, which are run behind them.That said, many if not most trailers are made with the legs out.  I'm sure ease of manufacturing plays a major role, as you said.
Reply:If you place the legs out then make sure you plan on adding tie down rings or some other way to attach straps/chains.  My 1995 Hudson trailer came with legs out and no tie downs!  A 16' flat deck with no way to secure loads, doh!Hobart LX235Victor 250 Oxy-Acetylene Rig (welding and cutting)Bobcat 773F-350, 1999, 4x4, 16' 10K# trailerOutdoor Wood Burner - 10 cords/year
Reply:A length of about 1/2" round stock inserted vertically between the flanges makes for a nice tie- down anchor. But flanges in or out won't change the strength.
Reply:Thanks didn't think it would but wanted some other opinions. It's a great idea til you sit down then you start thinking of why it might not work always nice to have some others to bounce ideas off of. No worries about tie downs on the sides they aren't needed so this should help speed up production."Liberalism is a mental disorder" Dr. Savage