New Better Built Happy!

[wkpoor]

After 2 months I finally got the new trailer in. I trusted my dealer on this one and glad I did. The name says it all. Actually it appears over built to me for a 7 ton trailer but I guess thats better than under built. The tractor was only on there for a quick around the block test run if anyone notices the 3 straps that don't appear to be enough. I know they are not adequate tie down for that load. That tractor weights about 8500lbs as it sits in the pic with the loaded tires. That trailer made that load ride real nice.

 

[Ductape]

Beautiful trailer ! I like the storage box built into the tongue.

Very nice!

How long is the deck?

 

[wkpoor]

Its a 20+4
There is a winch tower up front and I plan to install a power pack in the box to run the hydraulic winch that will be on it.

 

[Renze]

I plan to install a power pack in the box to run the hydraulic winch that will be on it.

Why not use a direct drive electric winch ?? the hydraulics are just an extra cost, and gives loss of power, between the electrical motor and the winch reduction gear.
What we normally sold on trailers like these, is a Warn M8000 (8000 pound) running on 12 V with an extra battery on the trailer, to reduce the peak amps on the power cord to your trucks battery.

Very nice trailer though !

 

[mikim]

Very nice! the only thing I would change is the coupler. I like bulldog couplers. Really like that winch tower.... I have a warn winch that would just fit.

 

[GeneD14]

Nice looking trailer!

 

[wkpoor]

I already have a 12,000 hydraulic winch I bought for use on the tractor. Rather than buy another winch I elected to make this one dual purpose with its own battery that will charge off the truck. The whole reason for buying hydraulic is more power and continuous use ability. I assume I can buy a power pack cheaper than an electric winch with the power of the Mile Marker 12K. Plus the hydraulics have good line speed at load where as the electrics are real slow under load. I consulted Mile Marker and they agreed for heavy duty continuous use hydraulics was the was to go. Since the trailer won't be as demanding if I could find a reasonable cost 8000lb electric I would consider that option.

As for the coupler that one was necessary do to the 7ton capacity. Actually those cast units are real nice as they are self locking when you lower them onto the ball.

 

[LBrown59]

I like the fact the ramps lay on the floor vs sticking up in the air.

 

[Renze]

I assume I can buy a power pack cheaper than an electric winch with the power of the Mile Marker 12K. Plus the hydraulics have good line speed at load where as the electrics are real slow under load.

when using the hydraulic winch with a diesel enigine driving the oil pump, hydraulic is definately the way to go, with constant line speed and durability.
But when powering the hydro pump for the winch electric, you'll still be stuck with that underpowered, and less reliable electrical motor.

As far as price concerned, i'm sure you could find an electric powerpack that is as cheap as a fully electric all in one unit... But i'm afraid the cheap powerpack then wont have the reliability and duration factor of a dedicated winch motor... Most 12V powerpacks we use, are pretty limited and run hot if you use them long and dont let them cool off long enough between power cycles.


But if the application on the trailer will be less demanding (only incidental use), it might be a good compromise to separate the winch part from the power pack by hydraulic quick couplers, to use tractor hydraulics when you need full power of the winch. But then, personally i dont expect too much of the winch capacity and reliability when using an electric hydro powerpack...

 

[wkpoor]

Well I found a 12,000lb. milemarker on Epay for a little more than the pack with hoses would have cost. So with the installation being easier and hopefully the real housing is the same so mounting will match up to the hydraulic one. Basically I took your advice and went electric. My limited experience with winches is about like my experience with chippers. What ever they say they are cut that in half for what they really are.