Dump Trailer Floor Gauge. Yes, size matters. Gauge thickness refers to a standard numerical scale used to measure the thickness of sheet metal. The gauge number is inversely related to the thickness of the metal: the lower the gauge number, the thicker the metal. Generally, thicker metal will bend less and last longer. But thicker metal adds weight and decreases payload. And more metal costs more money. So be smart about what you really need. Is your primary load topsoil or boulders? And pay particular attention to the frame and sub frame. Sheet metal thickness needs the appropriate support underneath it so don’t just buy the “headline” gauge number. What are the cross members? Or are they bed runners? As always, just Contact Us and one of our trailer experts and they will help you find a great solution. Here is a table for Sheet Metal Gauge, thickness, and proxies:

FAQs Archive - Page 10 of 11 - Trailer Station USA

Q: What are common trailer wheel lug nuts?

Flanged Lug Nuts: Design: Flanged lug nuts have a flat, wide surface at the base, which acts as a built-in washer. This flange is typically larger in diameter than the nut itself. Purpose: The flange provides a larger surface area to distribute the clamping force over a greater area of the wheel. This helps in maintaining the wheel's alignment and reduces the chance of the nut loosening. Application: These are often used in heavier vehicles or trailers where a more secure fit is necessary due to the higher loads. The flange helps to evenly distribute the pressure and reduce wear on the wheel. Coned (Conical) Lug Nuts: Design: Coned lug nuts have a tapered base, usually at a 60-degree angle. This taper fits into a matching conical seat in the wheel. Purpose: The conical design centers the nut on the wheel for a precise fit. As the nut is tightened, the conical base is pulled into the seat, ensuring a snug and centered fit. Application: Coned lug nuts are common in passenger vehicles. The conical shape provides an even distribution of pressure while ensuring the wheel is accurately positioned on the hub. The choice between flanged and coned lug nuts depends on the wheel design and the specific requirements of the vehicle. It's crucial to use the type of lug nut that matches the wheel design for safety and proper wheel function. Using the incorrect type can lead to wheel misalignment, uneven wear, and potentially hazardous situations.

Q: What is a Hub Pilot wheel?

A Hub Pilot wheel, sometimes called a Hub-Centric wheel, is a design where the bore of the wheel precisely matches the axle hub and shares the load with the lug nuts – ideally the entire weight of the trailer is supported by the hub and the lug nuts are dedicated to securing the wheel to the hub. This precise fit and load sharing reduces vibration and improves handling. You’ll find these on trailers engineered for heavy loads.

Q: What is bolt pattern? What does 655 BC mean?

A wheel’s bolt pattern is a notation indicating the number of bolts and their layout on the wheel. For example, 655 BC (or sometimes 6x5.5 or 6x5.5”) indicates 6 bolts on a 5.5” diameter circle (an imaginary circle through the center of each bolt hole. There are several bolt patterns so make sure you find the right wheel to fit on your axle. Other common bolt patterns for utility trailers include 545 BC and 865 BC.

Q: When mounting a new tire, what is the proper torque pattern or lug nut sequence?

Follow the appropriate illustration: Start lug nuts by hand to avoid cross-threading Tighten lug nuts in the illustrated sequence following the appropriate torque stages and Torque Specifications Did we already say to check your torque frequently?

Q: What are the lug nut torque specifications for my trailer? Why do I need to constantly torque and retorque the lug nuts on my trailer?

It is critically important to properly torque and retorque the lug nuts on your trailer, particularly when the trailer is new, or the wheels are freshly mounted to the trailer, but even after the break in period. A trailer’s lug nuts may loosen more frequently due to heavy loads, uneven load distribution, rough terrain and other factors. The chart and the information below are derived from general industry practices but be sure to reference your manufacturers’ specifications. Please contact one of our trailer experts with any questions. When wheels are freshly mounted to a trailer, retorque your lug nuts: After the first 10 miles Again at 25 miles Again at 50 miles Check periodically

Q: What is the RTA tax? Do I have to pay the Washington State RTA tax?

Regional Transit Authority (RTA) tax is a WA state mandated tax for specific residents of King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties that live within the Sound Transit District. You can check whether this tax applies to you by checking here . RTA tax must be paid by residents in the Sound Transit District that purchase a new or used vehicle or trailer. RTA tax is calculated as 1.1% of the purchase price of the vehicle or trailer. Trailer Station USA is required by law to collect the RTA tax and submit 100% of the proceeds to the State of Washington. Trailer Station USA does not keep any of the RTA tax. RTA tax is used to fund the construction and operation of Sound Transit’s mass transit services.

Q: Torsion axles vs. Leaf spring axles. Which is better?

Fortunately, torsion axles and leaf spring axles are each well proven and durable. Making a choice between the two is typically a matter of preference. Leaf spring axles are well recognized; they use layers of steel springs (leaves) clamped together to provide suspension. Leaf spring axles are a more traditional and common type of axle. A torsion axle conceals rubber cords to provide resistance to the suspension arm; the system is less noticeable. General comparison: In summary, a torsion axle offers a smoother ride and requires less maintenance but is more expensive and can be difficult to repair. A leaf spring axle, on the other hand, is more economical, easier to repair, and suitable for heavy loads, but may provide a rougher ride and require more maintenance. The choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and the typical loads and conditions the trailer will encounter.