Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer?

   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer? #1  

Stranger

Member
Joined
May 23, 2010
Messages
38
Location
Virginia
I have a 30' enclosed car hauler I haven't used in years I was thinking about taking the box off and use it as a flatbed. It's rated at 12000#.
Is this a bad idea or fully possible?
I am fully equipped and capable of doing any sort of fabrication that would be needed.
 
   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer? #2  
I have a 30' enclosed car hauler I haven't used in years I was thinking about taking the box off and use it as a flatbed. It's rated at 12000#.
Is this a bad idea or fully possible?
I am fully equipped and capable of doing any sort of fabrication that would be needed.

Probably a bad idea, but not impossible. The "box" is part of the structure.
 
   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer?
  • Thread Starter
#3  
Yea thats kind of what I was thinking too... as for hurting its value, it would be worth more with out the box on it.
 
   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer?
  • Thread Starter
#4  
The frame is 6" I beams; that's what got me to thinking about it. It lookes rather beefy but I just wanted to ask around before I commited myself to a mistake.
 
   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer? #5  
I would think an enclosed trailer of that size would be worth alot more than an open one. I would try to spruce it up as an enclosed trailer and try to sell it. You can probably buy a new open trailer for what you can sell the used enclosed trailer for.
That would be alot less work. Take some photos and throw it on craigslist for a week or so and see if you get any bites.

I picked up a used 20' enclosed trailer to keep my BX and some stuff in. I will start a 24x24 garage project next year. Once done, I will sell the enclosed trailer to defray some cost.
 
   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer? #6  
Maybe see if someone on craigslist or a local trailer dealer will trade it for an open trailer.
 
   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer?
  • Thread Starter
#7  
Well It looks like I'll do the complete rewire of the lighting (**** field mice), replace a panel (storm damage), give it a good cleaning, and list it for sale. At least there is only about 300mi on the brakes, wheels, and tires I replaced 6 years ago. It has just sat there since I no longer have any time to play with the car.
I did use it as my storage shed until I finished my shop years ago...you can't go wrong with that way of doing it.
I know What I am going to do next weekend!
 
   / Convert an enclosed trailer to an open trailer? #8  
A family member of mine did just what you are saying. First time they loaded a truck on it it bent the frame and it twisted like a pretzel.

Sale it and get what you need.

Chris
 

Tractor & Equipment Auctions

2014 FORD F350 SUPER DUTY 4X4 PICKUP TRUCK (A43004)
2014 FORD F350...
2017 Chrysler Pacifica Minivan (A42744)
2017 Chrysler...
2015 FREIGHTLINER CASCADIA TANDEM AXLE DAY CAB (A43004)
2015 FREIGHTLINER...
2019 Ford Ranger Pickup Truck, VIN # 1FTER1EH4KLB00278 (A44391)
2019 Ford Ranger...
2015 KENWORTH T680 (A45046)
2015 KENWORTH T680...
2016 Ford Taurus Sedan (A42744)
2016 Ford Taurus...
 
Top