Buying a new horse trailer is much like purchasing a new home. When shopping, search for one that will function well for you.
However, before you head to a dealer, your trailer search should actually start at home. What do you plan to pull the trailer with? Gooseneck trailers necessitate a different ball placement than bumper pull or drag trailers, and in general require a larger towing vehicle. After deciding what vehicle to employ, settle on a use for the trailer. For example: If you prefer to stay near your horses, you may wish to look at trailers with larger living quarters.
It’s also suggested you consider the aerodynamics of a trailer. Fuel can be saved and therefore money by choosing from aerodynamic options. Each hauling job is unique; having the right type of trailer is therefore crucial but still only half of the puzzle.
Take time to look at the entire trailer, especially the least noticeable areas. Attention to detail in these areas tells you a lot about a manufacturer’s practice. Lie down underneath the trailer; see what’s holding up the floor. Hop on a ladder, and glance over the roof. There should be adhesive over seams, and a system, like Featherlite’s pierce and roll, that doesn’t create holes in your roof should be used to prevent water leakage.
If you choose to purchase an aluminum trailer, make sure that’s what you get. Many companies produce “aluminum” trailers but are only wrapping the frame in aluminum sheeting. Unfortunately, beneath the sheeting on these so-called “aluminum” trailers is a steel frame. Ask your salesperson for specifics on frame materials.
Trailers should be slightly flexible, but the walls shouldn’t move when bumped by your horses. Search for a trailer that has serious structural support. Chances are, unless you have a pony, an inch thick wall won’t be adequate. When dealing with equine trailers, try to find one that has walls two inches thick. Two-inch walls provide a dramatically safer environment for your horses by minimizing possible wall movement.
One of the first things horses notice when they walk into a trailer is the floor. Most trailers come with rubber flooring. But differences in rubber quality and thickness can greatly affect your horse. Thicker rubber allows horses the greatest amount of cushion without compromising their stability.
It’s also important to have rubber on the walls. While it doesn’t need to be as thick, a layer of wall rubber can effectively reduce the impact of a horse being bumped around on rough terrain.
Windows and vents are significant aspects of any trailer. A good trailer has large windows to allow the maximum amount of light and air in. When it comes to windows, make sure they’re easy to operate. Each should have a centered handle, not one placed at the top, and they should be free of clumsy cables. Overhead vents are ideal on hot summer days. A row of centered or alternating roof vents will score major points with horses.
Lighting systems are imperative in every trailer. Today, the standard trailer light is the L.E.D. These small, light emitting diodes, use less energy, are more powerful and last considerably longer than conventional lighting. Look for these in the form of marker lights, wraparound brake illumination and atmospheric lighting inside.
For more information on Featherlite horse trailers, contact Featherlite at 800-800-1230 or visit your local Featherlite dealer.
