FAQs

There are 4 main lift types for dump trailers and each has its benefits.

Single Push.

• Also called a Single Ram or Single Cylinder.
• Most affordable.
• These are great for lighter loads.

Dual Push.

• Also called a Dual Ram or Dual Cylinder.
• Two smaller cylinders work in tandem to lift the box.
• Since the cylinders are placed wide on the box, the unload is very stable and the forces on the connections are shared.
• This system requires both cylinders to work in sync.

Scissor Lift

• A scissor lift spreads the lift points, so the box is typically more stable during the unload compared to a Single Push.
• If you are moving heavy and variable cargo, choose a scissor lift.  If you are moving light and consistently weighted cargo: choose a single push cylinder lift, save the extra cash, and take your spouse to dinner.
• This is a good video that compares a Scissor Lift to a Single Cylinder

Telescopic Lift.

• Also called a Telescopic Cylinder.
• There are three main advantages to a Telescopic Lift:  1) Impressively high lifting power.  2) The box cross members are consistent along the entire box (compared to the room that a scissor hoist requires.  3)  All of the pushing power is in front – so there is no negative leverage (weight that is in front of a scissor hoist).
• There are two drawbacks to a Telescopic Lift:  1) The telescope is usually exposed above the box and more susceptible to damage by a bucket.  2)  The hydraulics will usually reduce the toolbox size.

Is Powder Coating better than Traditional Paint?  Really, it depends.  We represent manufacturers that use both processes.  Ultimately, we believe that the quality of the manufacturer matters more than the paint system.  i.e., manufacturers with superior systems and processes will produce superior products.  That is one of the reasons we choose our manufacturers wisely.

Powder Coating is conducted in an oven where an electrostatic spray covers the surfaces of an electrically charged metal.  Powder coating covers every exposed surface of the metal and does not depend on a manual paint gun.  Go deep here.

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.

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.

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.

What is trailer tongue weight?  How does trailer tongue weight affect driving performance?  How does trailer tongue weight influence GVWR and payload?

• Tongue weight (TW) is the force of the trailer’s coupler onto the vehicle’s hitch. This is an important factor as it affects both the stability and the handling of the towing setup.
• Tongue Weight and GVWR. Trailer manufacturers occasionally assign a portion of the trailer’s empty weight to the tongue of the vehicle to increase its GVWR rating while using the same axles.  For example, a trailer with a 10K axle might have an 11K GVWR (if 10% of the “weight” is assigned to the tongue).  This enables the user to legally tow a heavier payload assuming the tow vehicle can legally handle the extra weight, but the actual performance of the trailer has not changed.
• Buyer beware. Recently, we found a manufacturer who applied tongue weight math, but the increased payload was greater than the dump’s lift capacity.
• Distribution of Load. It is very important to ensure your load is distributed properly on your trailer.  If you don’t have enough weight on tongue, the vehicles rear tires can lose transaction; too much loaded tongue weight can reduce steering or braking, among other risks.  Pay attention to your tow vehicle’s and trailer’s specifications and recommendations.
• There are many methods for measuring tongue weight and managing tongue height to maintain a level trailer such as adjustable height couplers, adjustable height tow balls, weight distribution hitches, and even vehicle air adjustable suspensions.
• Generally, you want a level tow vehicle, a level trailer, and appropriate load distribution. Make sure your total setup is within legal requirements and equipment capabilities.  And don’t get hoodwinked by manufacturer claims.

As always, contact one of our trailer professionals for custom advice.

When choosing ramps for utility trailers, several factors need to be considered.  Below is a partial list so Contact Us one of our trailer specialists who can help you with the best solutions to your specific needs.

1. Weight Capacity: The ramp must be able to support the maximum weight of the load it will carry (vehicle weight plus contents).  Most manufacturers rate their ramps with a static load at mid-span, but check your literature and always use caution.
2. Material
   1. Steel ramps are the most common ramps due to their performance at low cost.  Steel ramps are typically heavy so consider the ramp storage system and your back strength.
   2. Aluminum ramps are lighter but typically more expensive than steel.  Highly engineered aluminum ramps have impressive weight to performance ratios.
   3. Mixed materials, for example on a cargo trailer rear door that acts as a ramp, are verry common.  For a rear ramp door, it is helpful to know the frame layout inside the door vs. your intended load points.
3. Length and Width: The length of the ramp should be sufficient for the height of the trailer to ensure a gentle incline; steep ramps can be dangerous. The width should accommodate the width of the load, providing enough room for safe loading and unloading.  Good trailers will have a width adjusting system.
4. Surface Traction: The ramp surface should provide good traction to prevent slips and falls. This is especially important in wet or dirty conditions. Look for ramps with a textured surface or traction coatings.
5. Storage.  Consider how the ramps will be stored when not in use.
   1. Fold Up Ramps (or “Stand Up Ramps” or “Knee Ramps”) are fast and convenient to use.  Many are constructed to act as a full or partial stabilizing jack when lowered.  Most Fold Up Ramps are stored vertically which creates drag underway and they can also be noisy; minor issues if you usually tow a full load.
   2. Slide In Ramps.  These ramps are nicely hidden in pockets somewhere around the frame.  We prefer the rear slide in ramps so they are easy to deploy and return.  Some manufacturers put their ramp pockets in the front which requires a constant wrestling match.  No one likes to wrestle a steel ramp.
   3. Mega Ramps.  Are substantial – big and wide.  Manufacturers are very clever on the engineering of their spring assist up and down, minimizing the muscle required for any direction.  Watchers will think you are incredibly strong when you effortlessly move those ramps, so have fun with it.

6. Is that a Beavertail? Or are you just glad to see me?  The beavertail is not technically part of the ramps – it is the last few feet of a cargo or flat deck equipment trailer that is angled towards the ramp/ground.  It lowers the deck height and improves the load angle – very popular for many applications.

It’s important to thoroughly assess your specific needs and conditions when choosing ramps for a utility trailer.  Our trailer experts are happy to help you with your specific needs so just give us a call.

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: