Folding / Extending Trailer Gate

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Here is the situation. I have a friend that has a Carry-on 4x6 trailer that he uses to gather scrap metal.  Every now and then he gets some big long pieces, he then has to cut to fit his trailer. He wants me to come up with a way he can lower and lock his tailgate and then fold up the last foot or so. This would give him about 2' more room. Metal is free so no cost except my time. I'm thinking some locking pins on the side maybe some cable on the tailgate? I'm open to anything.Let hear some of your Ideas. There is alot of talent on this site so someone will come up with something.
Reply:It would be great if we had a picture of the trailer and current gate setup so we can lead you in the right direction.Miller Dynasty 300dxSpeedglas 9002XMiller Spectrum 375 XtremeLincoln PowerMig 255xtLincoln PowerMig 140cMilwuakee Portaband
Reply:Here is a 5x9 trailer I built several years ago for a carpenter friend of mine. I built two removable braces into the tailgate that when he needed a little extra length he could place them on the pins welded to the side of the trailer and also to his tailgate. This was not done to support a lot of weight, just to support longer pieces with the majority of the weight still being applied to the trailer floor.1st. picture is the tailgate with the removable diagonal supports.2nd. picture is tailgate in horizontal position.3rd. picture shows tailgate in the down position with the braces laying next to it. Attached ImagesI am what I am, Deal with it!If necessity is the Mother of Invention, I must be the Father of Desperation!
Reply:I like that Idea dabar and same here it won't be for heavy pieces just long ones.Here is a pic of the trailer off of the website.
Reply:I like Dabars idea.  You could do that and then also fab up a small tailgate to put on there.
Reply:Just be sure you don't loose too much tongue weight when the tailgate is in the horizontal position. It'll make for an interesting ride.Miller Thunderbolt AC/DC (Sold)Miller Dialarc 250HFMiller MM251Miller MM200 (Sold)Miller MM130Miller Spot WelderVictor O/A rigMiller Spoolmatic 1 (Sold)