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How to Protect and Rewire Trailer Wiring

Wiring a small trailer is no easy feat. Even wiring (correctly) a simple 4-way trailer wiring harness requires several hours of labor. The last thing you want is for Mother Nature to undo all your hard work. So what’s the best way to protect your trailer wiring for the long

Federal Trailer Lighting Info and Regulations

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has developed standards and regulations for lighting on all road-ready trailers. These standards define the number of lights and reflectors a trailer must have, where the lights and reflectors should be located, and which SAE or DOT code the lights must have. These

4 Step Guide to Choosing a Trailer Hitch Coupler

A coupler is welded or bolted to the front of your trailer frame. It mates with the trailer ball for a secure swiveling connection. How to choose a trailer coupler isn’t rocket science. Here’s a 4-step guide to get you underway. Step 1: Select the Correct Size of Trailer Ball

How to Install Screws for Trailer Decking

Are you about to replace the wooden decking on your trailer? Most trailers with wooden decking will eventually require replacement. Wood, even pressure-treated wood, can crack, break, dry rot, warp, or fall prey to termites and other insects. You can extend the lifespan of your flooring using a deck and

Guide to Articulating Couplers for Trailers

What Is An Articulating Trailer Coupler? An articulating trailer coupler is a hitch mechanism that allows 360-degree rotation of a trailer-to-tow vehicle connection. It prevents the hitch ball from binding against the coupler. Articulating (also called multi-axis) couplers are popular on off-road trailers. But as you’ll see, they are an

Step-by-Step Guide to Painting a Homemade Trailer

If you’re constructing a steel frame trailer, then here’s a hard-to-accept truth: It’s very difficult to replicate a factory-applied finish for your trailer. Manufacturers have access to tooling and fabrication processes unavailable to the homeowner. Most factory trailer frames are either sandblasted or dipped in an acid bath to clean

How to Read a Trailer Tire Label (Quick Reference)

A typical tire label might read: ST205/75-R14 LRD ST: Special Trailer Tire. ST tires are built with reinforced sidewalls and unique chemistry to handle the higher shear loads and longer storage periods of trailer service. 205: The section width in millimeters. 75: The aspect ratio, expressed as a percentage of

How to Design a Small Homemade Trailer

So, you’re ready to build your own trailer? If you’re not sure exactly what size and style you want, we’re here to help. Homemade utility trailers come in all sizes and shapes, from tiny 4×8-ft teardrop trailers to stout 6×12-ft ATV haulers. How to Choose a DIY Trailer Design Before

Should I Use Aluminum to Build a Trailer?

Here at Template Trailers, we love aluminum! It’s silvery, it’s lightweight, it’s easy to drill, and best of all, it’s strong! However, aluminum is finicky to work with. We prefer its use for bolt-together trailers rather than conventional welded trailers. Here’s why: Most people are interested in aluminum for a

A Guide to the Best Options for Trailer Decking

Decking is a critical part of your trailer. It holds your stuff, seals against water, prevents animal intrusion, and strengthens your frame. Your choice of decking or flooring will vary by trailer type. For instance, a lightweight lawn trailer may use expanded steel mesh. It’s lightweight and doesn’t hold water.