Custom/Hybrid The more "affordable" trailer project pt.1

[LMnsr]

Hello all,

I wanted to share part 1 of my trailer build (since my ski isn't here yet, 2 more weeks hopefully)

First of all let me just clarify that this is not a cheap build, but cheap(er). Since i live abroad i have to pay a lot more than i should on basically everything. So i worked with what i could find. Used pwc trailers run about 2300 my currency, which is about USD $1,300. So i decided to do it a bit differently.

I bought a Utilitymate 4x6' landscape trailer since that's the only one i found here. I got it new in the box for about $700
Here is a link to the trailer.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/UtilityMate-4-x-6-EZ-Open-Trailer-Black/15746850

The trailer is made of regular steel, so I got some stuff to prevent rust.
1. 3x Rubberized Undercoat, usually used for cars (Got it at Napa)
2. 1x Epoxy Primer 1qt
3. Bearing Buddy hub bearing seal with set of hubcaps, (brush for epoxy primer)

Total cost was about $100 (might be cheaper in the states)

I am still debating if I should use the epoxy primer or not, I was thinking of painting the trailer then spraying it with the rubber undercoat.

Here are the steps to assemble the trailer, it took me about 1 - 1.5 hour doing it alone. The instructions that came with the trailer kind of sucked.

This is everything that came in the box.


I had to start off by removing the gate and it's components. it was easy just a couple of bolts.


Next i had to install the front part of the trailer. 4 bolts



Next step was the suspension and axle. I sprayed the suspension with undercoat before mounting them.
The suspension used 4 bolts and the axle was mounted with U-rings. I actually forgot to mount the fenders. The brackets for the fenders use the suspension bolts to mount.(Realized it a bit too late)


After this was basically mounting the lights (no wiring needed, it came with the harnass installed), mount the wheels on, then flip it over (2 person job).
This is the final result (without fenders)



That is about it for part 1 of my trailer build. I have to wait until the ski gets here to finish it up.
I am planning on mounting L-brackets to the floor and use 2x4's as rails (will carpet them), i will also have to make a front pole to secure the nose of the ski. Trying to decide between a pull/strap system or just a U with pin.

Hopefully in the end this post might help someone out. Stay tuned for part 2 in a few weeks

 

[Hallie]

Are you planning on using the ski in salt water?

If so, you may want to reconsider carpet on the rails. It holds salt and sand.

I think UHMWPE is the best. It's so slippery you don't need the winch. And the ski just slides off when launching.

If you use your ski in fresh water then I guess the carpet won't be as bad.

 

[LMnsr]

Are you planning on using the ski in salt water?

If so, you may want to reconsider carpet on the rails. It holds salt and sand.

I think UHMWPE is the best. It's so slippery you don't need the winch. And the ski just slides off when launching.

If you use your ski in fresh water then I guess the carpet won't be as bad.

Thanks, I did not think of that.
I will be using it in salt water, that's why I'm taking the extra precautions to prevent rust.
Do you mean to replace the (wood+carpet) with UHMWPE? or do they sell a product i can cover the wood with? I'm not too familiar with the material

 

[Hallie]

Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. I'm in Australia so I can't help you out as to where you would get it. Any sort of durable plastic for putting on bunks will make launching and retrieving easier.

 

[LMnsr]

Ok, thanks