New trailer

[CasualObserver 3,408]

I don't think I've shared this as I've been pretty scarce on forums since it happened.... but I pulled the trigger on a new trailer.

I had the Wheel Horse two-place snowmobile trailer for several years, and while I loved it and had many fun conversations at shows while showing it off, I needed a better trailer to be able to haul to shows and for general use around the home. After long consideration regarding the need of a substantial trailer and the desire not to let this collectible un-restored metal trailer sit outside and degrade in another Minnesota winter I decided it was time. I'd have loved to be able to justify keeping both, but it wasn't a good fit for me.

I never officially advertised it for sale publicly, but had told a couple people I was considering letting it go. There was one collector whom I knew was legitimately interested in making an offer if I was ever ready to let it go. We agreed on a price and one of my prize pieces headed for a new home. If he ever decides to speak up on it, I'll leave that up to him, but know that it is in good hands and will be meticulously restored, I have no doubt.



This picture really highlights just how small even the two place snowmobile trailer is.

With that part of the deal done, I began seriously looking for it's replacement. I wasn't in a hurry as show season was over and I didn't have any immediate hauling needs. It was likely going to just sit in the driveway over winter anyway.

I had some bad experiences with a couple dealers along the way, but eventually landed with this 14 foot PJ Trailer built how I wanted. They had trailers in production, and I was able to get a change order done specifically I was able to get the bi-fold gate, removable stake pocket spare tire carrier and color I wanted. Sides are completely removable so if I need to run just the flat deck, I can. I like that because the trailer's stability isn't dependent on the sides keeping it from being wobbly like a lot of them you see. Pretty happy with this, it pulls nice and smooth. Looking forward to some nice trips to shows with it!

[Racinbob 11,045]

That's one nice trailer. I really like the bi-fold tailgate. Even with the expanded metal it's amazing how much wind drag they cause.

[dclarke 4,032]

Nice trailer, Jason.

[stevasaurus 22,711]

I too like that tail gate...nice looking trailer Jason. 

[CasualObserver 3,408]

Thanks guys. That was one feature I really wanted. I don't know how long they've been making them with that as an option. I don't remember ever seeing any others around here with the option, but I had conceived that idea several years back, and thought if I ever got a trailer with a gate that's what I'd do. Several dealers tried to talk me out of it commenting how it doesn't really save you gas mileage or anything... which I contend is a moot point anyway. From my perspective, the gas mileage thing only becomes an issue when pulling an empty trailer allowing that whole gate to provide wind resistance, and I don't make a habit of running around with an empty trailer.  Besides, they just wanted to sell me what they already had on the lot, which was full, non-folding ramp gate stock models.

 

Another nice benefit is that when I'm pulling it, I don't have to look through the mesh gate to see behind me. The bi-fold lowers the view obstructing gate for a cleaner view of following traffic!

 

Shopping around makes a difference.  I was able to get what I wanted, in the color I preferred for less money than settling for something closer just down the road. 

[AMC RULES 37,130]

Nicely thought out Jason...     

can't wait to see it loaded up with  .  

[stevebo-(Moderator) 8,330]

What is the carrying weight of that one? Looks like it will carry a decent amount. 

[Shynon 7,459]

Jason looks nice, like the removable sides.

[CasualObserver 3,408]

What is the carrying weight of that one? Looks like it will carry a decent amount. 

It's a 2,990 lbs. rated trailer, with regular 3,500 lbs axle. Trailer itself weighs a little under 1,200 and will comfortably carry 4 tractors with attachments mounted. Deck is built the same as their longer dual axle trailer so weight won't be issue. 

Keeping it rated under 3k lbs allows it to have a lifetime license here in MN... no annual registration or license plates either! 

[prondzy 3,881]

nice trailer Jason! sad to see the W.H. trailer go but this one looks like a better one.

[Terry M-(Moderator) 2,175]

I agree Jason...Very Nice!!

[shallowwatersailor 3,213]

Nice trailer that doesn't look like a landscaper, Jason. I came close to a similar "PJ" with the ATV ramps but with a dove tail end. They are nice with the removable sides. What stopped me was the extra six inch width (77" width) for the roads in my area. I have enough trouble with the 72" width out here seeing as I don't use it every day..

[CasualObserver 3,408]

Thanks John... I know what you mean... the way you feel about 77 vs 72 is the reason I didn't go to the 83 instead!

[shallowwatersailor 3,213]

If I was back in the Midwest, I would have gone 77" as well. The roads where some of the "finds" are located out here are skinny.