Thread: trailer floor overlap

Originally Posted by jethroegg

Hi, I'm intending to reframe my steelfloored 6 x 4 trailer. I intend using 50x50x2.5mm box for the framework (as it has been given to me) but need to know how much overlap should I have where the floor comes across the edge of the box frame before I weld the floor in place? 10mm, 20mm? I can't seem to find any recommended or standard construction information. It just seems to be do whatever. My current frame is very light 38 x 25mm and has badly rusted which makes it hard to determine how much overlap was used. I will probably make the sides/ends with 25mm box and gal sheet. Any ideas thanks?

If you get your floor sheet first and work from that as sometimes sheets vary a bit (depending where they're made) allowing about 20mm either side. When you've got it all made and welded use some sealing compound on all the sheet joints where they over lap to prevent rusting, prime all welded joints before the floor goes on also.
Kryn

Firstly, Welcome Jethro.
I gather you'll be using your existing floor, and just replacing the chassis...??
If this is the case, then I'd be looking to use the same perimeter measurements as your existing chassis, otherwise your current axle length and wheel & tyre combination could have clearance issues if you change the chassis width too much.

Also, if you're making a new chassis, then this is now your chance to lengthen the drawbar. If it's a standard 6X4, carrying standard 6X4 stuff, then 75 x 50 x 3.0mm at 1500mm out from the front cross rail will be perfect. A quick rough calculation, tying the drawbar back to the front hanger, should be around 2200mm each side. And if you get an 8M length, you can use part of the 3600mm piece leftover for a heavy duty rear cross rail.