making a trailer vs repurposing one?

[mikechenry1]

I'm trying to decide if I want to create a trailer or just get one. I have a Harbor Freight right up the road from me and they have one that is for $299 that I can figure some way out to use. What are yall's suggestions on the subject. I am building a pit with 250 gal propane tank

 

[ahumadora]

Depending on the tank you use you are probably looking at 600 kg just in the smoker plus the trailer. 

Not sure what harbor freight offers but most of it is flimsy crap.   I personally would go for something more substancial.

 

[kam59]

I would look into a tandem axle trailer with 3500 lb. axles if you plan on more than just the cooker. As Ahumadora mentioned harbor freight trailers are not suited for your needs.

 

[fatbastard09]

I agree with the guys above.  I seriously considered mounting on the HF one, but upon further research it is not worth it.  Depending on where you want to take it, you will most likely need to pay for a costly inspection/title service and it says in the fine print not to drive the trailer over 35mph (maybe $200 just for that).  The only reason I would consider buying a HF trailer is if all you want to do is move your smoker around your property with an atv or tractor. 

 

[pork2go]

If I had the chance to do it over again. I would build a trailer or find one used but well built.

For my build I bought a 2000lb cap trailer(like the ones Lowes/ TSC/ norther tool sell) for my 120gal build. Well sence completing my smoker I have had to beef up the toung and trailer frame with 3x3x1/4 angle to keep it from flexing while towing. As well as swapping the axle for a 3500lb and stiffer 2250lb rated slipper springs.

 

[fefish]

I repurposed one that I found on Craigslist for $200. It is the one in the avatar. I was hoping to spend about $400 total on a trailer.

I found the tandem axle and asked my dad what he thought. He said, "let's go get it."

$200 trailer
$400 tires
$50 jack
$50 lights/wiring
$100 sandblasting/paint

About $800 total.

We worked our butts off on that rust bucket, spent a whole weekend just sandblasting. Had compressors on the smaller side.

Absolutely love it and wouldn't change a thing. If I spent twice that amount on a trailer anywhere else it probably wouldn't be half the quality/strength of what I ended up with. It will last forever too.

 

[dstiltz]

you  can buy a trailer kit southwest wheel for 300. that's what I am going to do. I am in the planning stages right now for my next build. those trail kit will save you about 200. over buying each piece