For this trailer, you’ll need 20 feet (6. 1 m), or 240 inches (610 cm), of steel total for the base. Buy enough to complete the job. If you’re building your trailer to different dimensions, then adjust this step to meet your needs.
Miter saws are best to use here because you can adjust the saw to the angle you want to cut. This ensures you get a proper, 45-degree angle. Most power saws can cut metal, but be sure to use a blade designed for metal. Always wear goggles and gloves when cutting metal. A welding mask would be even better, because cutting metal produces sparks.
Push the pieces together so there is as little space between them as possible. If you aren’t sure if you’re working on a flat surface, put a level on the floor and check.
Make sure there are no openings or holes in your weld spots. This keeps water out and prevents rusting. You can rent welding equipment from hardware stores, or buy it if you prefer. Wear a welding mask, thick gloves, and a leather apron while you weld. Never touch metal right after you welded it. Wait for everything to cool down first.
Don’t worry if it’s a tight fit or if you have to press the piece in. It should fit tight so it welds better.
4. 5 feet (1. 4 m) is a standard tongue size for an average trailer and towing vehicle. A general rule of thumb is that the tongue should be 1/2 the length of the towing vehicle plus 1 foot (0. 30 m) to ensure it has clearance when you turn. If your tongue is longer than 5 ft (1. 5 m), it needs extra reinforcing to stay stable.
For this step, a portable power saw is easier than a miter saw.
Confirm that the tongue is in the center by measuring from the 2 back corners of the trailer bed to the tip of the tongue. Those 2 measurements should be equal, which confirms that the tongue is centered.
Hitch connectors are available from automotive stores. Make sure you get one that is the same width as the tongue. Some hitch connectors have holes for bolts. In this case, fit the connector onto the end of the tongue. Then drill through the bolt holes to make holes in the tongue. Screw the bolts in and then weld the end of the connector to the tongue.
Standard metal tubing will work for this cage top. If the pipes aren’t the correct size when you buy them, measure and cut the pipes to the correct size.
The height depends on what you plan on hauling. 2 feet (0. 61 m) covers most general needs. If you’ll be piling up a lot of material into the trailer, then you might need a taller cage.
Having someone else help lift the cage top and hold it in place while you weld makes this part much easier.
For an easier job, you can also make the tailgate out of a single piece of metal. This will be heavy, however. Metal mesh is available at hardware stores or scrapyards.
To close the tailgate you have several options. For a simple solution, wrap a chain around the gate and bar to keep it closed. You could also attach connectors to the gate and trailer bed. Get 4 circular metal loops from the hardware store. Weld 2 onto the top corner of the cage facing backward. Weld the other 2 onto the outer top edge of the tailgate, facing outward. Then close the gate so the loops line up and drop pins into them to keep it closed.
Some prefer to use plywood for the base of the trailer because it’s cheaper and lighter. If you won’t be carrying heavy loads, then lay plywood down for the trailer base.
Some also use old car axles for a cheaper option. If you prefer this option, check around at scrap yards for extra parts. Remember that car axles and tires will be heavier than trailer parts.
For a trailer of a different length, multiply its total length by 0. 4. The result is the distance to place the axle from the rear of the trailer.
If the clasps won’t stay in place, clamp them down while you weld.
The recommendation for most trailer tires if 35-40 psi, but check the specifications on your product. If you aren’t sure how to install and fill the tires properly, let a professional do it so your trailer is safe.
