Fix trailer, got it for free...

admin

First post. Hope you guys could help me out. I don't have much experience weld but have done some with my dad. We made a flatbed trailer out of a travel trailer frame. It came out pretty good, the welds didn't look too pretty but were good.I will be using a Lincoln AC/DC 225/125 buzzbox with 6013 rod. (he has a lot of these)I was given this trailer and before using it, I would like to make some changes and additions. For some reason the previous owner installed the axle towards the rear. I have no idea why. I would also like to make some side walls. Also, would it be too difficult to make longer (extend), was thinking 14' total. On some projects we carry long pieces of wood, 12' to 16'.The trailer will be used to haul trash to the dump, move family..when needed, tile, thinset, plywood, sheetrock...an so on, not all at the same time. Work around the house never ends. I got some measurements... Size is 5'x10'. Frame is 2x2 square tubing and 2x2x1/8" angle. From the picture, could you tell me if the design is ok? Also from the number on the axle, could you tell me what the specs are? Here's the part number TS 35 73 0580 545 1 AX-5201-BD. It might be a 3500# axle and the spings are 4 leaf, flat end slipper. The mfg website indicates 2000# capacity each.Let me know if you would like pictures from different angles...  Hope you guys could give me your thoughts, suggestions and opinions..Thanks, Joe
Reply:Check my reply to your post on the Miller site. DaveI am what I am, Deal with it!If necessity is the Mother of Invention, I must be the Father of Desperation!
Reply:gotcha....
Reply:You thoughts on which rod?  I've read that 7018 would give better results...
Reply:do you know the wall thickness of the tubing?  if it's 1/8 like the angle, it might be a bit frail for heavy loads.  The design looks good but I've never liked tubing for a trailer frame because it's going to get wet and you can't get in there to paint it or to see if it's rusting.  As far as moving the axle, not a problem if you know what you're doing.  The running gear is not something you want to come apart at highway speeds.  If you lack confidence in your welding ability, I'd pay a professional to re-locate the spring hangers and you can take it from there.  I'd also find a way to tie the tongue into the first spreader just to make me sleep a bit better.