In our search for the ideal runaround trailer, we've encountered some realities that have led us to constantly changing our minds. They are: 1) we can have a shorter overall "box" length with a GN trailer than with a bumper pull; 2) I'm the last one in the world to know that many manufacturers are willing to build the exact trailer that we need; 3) and not all manufacturers and dealers charge the same for that privilege. Our needs are to haul two horses safety and comfortably to and from minor events. This would not necessarily include camping or showing, which would usually involve voluminous gear. We presently have trailers that suffice well for those purposes. The new trailer has to be capable and safe, easily performing all day trips if necessary, while being comfortable at highway speeds. We need two large stalls, 42"-44" wide by 10' long. On a trailer with a 6'9" wide interior and a 1' ft short wall, this ends up requiring a 12' box. A 12' boxed BP trailer, has to include a nose piece that can be 1' or 2' depending on its profile. Then the hitch is added, which is 1 1/2' to 2' long for a total length of 15' or more. A GN, only has to be 12' at the bulkhead, the rest of the length is over the truck. The shorter the wheelbase, the more pitching and porpoising that can be encountered, especially when comparing a BP and GN hitch. The GN hitch will add almost 4' to the wheelbase of the trailer, providing a more stable ride. The GN can't jackknife like the BP, so when parking, it can be turned sharper for parking. Various manufacturers charge different rates for the same products. One builder charges a replacement cost for two butt side drop down windows at $795 installed. Another gives credit for the present windows and only charges the difference in pricing for the upgrade which is aprox $180. Some builders do not offer drop down windows in an escape door, others do. If ventilation is a concern, installing or omitting an escape door can become a major consideration. Construction featuring two doors with cam locks and no center post are readily available. This results in a loading area that's open and free of a tack compartment, like that found on stock trailers, but is more convenient than the one piece tailgates. Few dealers are selling their trailers with anything but Chinese installed tires. Only a very few offer American made tires installed from the factory. Some will defend theirs and the manufacturers' practices, and threaten that they are the only equipment they will sell. Others, when realizing that this issue will become a deal breaker, offer to install American made truck tires readily available at local tire stores. Even this can become contentious. I am fully prepared to pay an "upscale" charge for the better tires. But when I was offered a $35 credit for the OEM tires, I balked at the insult. Only when I pulled out my checkbook and immediately demanded to buy the dealer's entire tire stock at $35 each, did he relent and offer a higher price. He's shown his mettle and will not receive my business. Purchasing even a simple trailer like this one, has become a labourious issue. It takes a great deal of research to find exactly what you want. There are many honest dealers willing to help you. There are also some that misrepresent their products and fudge the pricing. For instance, some are charging for extras that are standard OEM practices or equipment etc. With so many brands being sold and the relative unavailability for inspection, this is an involved process. Gard | 
Run Around Continued
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