Hi all.  I'm brand new here and come seeking help with a decision.  I've been thinking for a while about purchasing a gooseneck trailer to replace my 4 horse combo bumper pull.  A friend of mine is selling her 2005 Sooner 4h.  She has several other trailers and has only pulled this Sooner a few times (you could count them on one hand).  My brother-in-law works for a local trailer dealer.  He can get me a pretty good deal on a new Circle J trailer.  I would really appreciate some of the collective wisdom comparing these two trailers.

Thanks in advance.

Get the Sooner and leave the BIL out of it.....No need to have a falling out with kin folk!!

Is the Circle J an all aluminum, aluminum skin steel frame, or all steel trailer? My guess is the Sooner is all aluminum.

I'm leaning toward the Sooner.

This page from the Circle J website speaks volumes:  http://209.210.60.43/quality.asp

I would definitely favour an all aluminum trailer over a steel frame, aluminum skin. In the north east this is a major consideration. Even if you're not in a rust belt area, a through inspection is necessary to reveal any defects. Check everything, each door and window, lights, brakes, frame and axles, check the tires for weather checking and ask about any prior maintenance. Figure on the cost of a wheel bearing repack and brake inspection as soon as you get it. If the seller says he has made any improvements or performed any recent maintenance on the trailer, have him put it in the bill of sale.

Unless your BIL is going to pay you the difference in trailer payments, he really can't get upset if you buy elsewhere. If you can get a better trailer at a less price, he cannot argue your logic.

BOL  Gard

Thanks Gard and loveduffy,

There doesn't seem to be anyone who disagrees with your views that all aluminum is better than aluminum skin.  The Circle J does have some features that the Sooner lacks -- a hay rack, mangers with storage boxes underneath, a separate mid "pie" tack in addition to the rear tack.  However, it seems to me that long term quality is more important than features (especially those that can be added later).

Thanks for the input.

Cutabove,

If you want all the features you have enumerated, check out the many listings on the Internet and especially HTW. There are many other brands available than the two you are considering. The economy is quickly going in the dumps and unfortunately it will affect the bottom line on many trailer owners. I would expect to see many more used trailers in the market this year because of the fuel costs and the housing market crises. It will be a buyer's market as a surplus of equipment sits unsold. You should be able to find what you are looking for if you are willing to spend a little more time searching. Usually the prices escalate in the Spring. I don't think that it will happen this year. If you are a buyer with cash in hand, and are a firm negotiator, I think you will find some bargains

BOL  Gard