I am looking to purchase a new horse trailer in the next month and I was told by a friend not to believe the empty weight number on registration aren't exact due manufacturing processes there can be differences in weight in same make & model.At best this just an approximate weight is this correct?I really am concerned because I've only got a vehicle with a 3500 lb tow capacity with a class two hitch.I am looking at the light weight (Shadow Trailers 2100 LBS empty )and I only haul one 930 lb horse is it reasonable to insist on a Certified Scale weight prior to purchase?I would to haul around 200 lbs of hay/feed/tack.Thanks
Posted 2011-04-20 11:11 PM (#133280 - in reply to #133276) Subject: RE: Getting an exact empty trailer weight
New User
Posts: 3
Location: Panama city florida
Can't wait until Sept 2011 for release to public ,need a trailer now.The Shadow stable mate 2 horse I am looking at is 2100 lbs empty weight.Plus I have to consider price.Thanks anyway
Posted 2011-04-21 9:27 AM (#133289 - in reply to #133276) Subject: RE: Getting an exact empty trailer weight
Expert
Posts: 2453 Location: Northern Utah
The trailer Gross weight should be pretty accurate, Because it's usually based on what the axles can carry.
The empty weight may vary a little, But unless the trailer has been modified, the standard weight not going to change too much. Usually changes happen because the base was established with brand X parts and supply issues or cost came into play and the mfg changed to Brand Y parts. ie. Going from Hancook tires to Goodyear tires might egual a 1 lb change in tire weights. Going from a Brand X trailer jack to a Brand Y trailer jack.
Posted 2011-04-21 9:46 AM (#133291 - in reply to #133276) Subject: RE: Getting an exact empty trailer weight
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 399 Location: Ottawa, Illinois 61350
Some trailer manufacturers weighe each trailer when it is completed and ready to leave the plant. I would call the manifacturer and ask them if they do this. I know Sundowner has a 12' model that weighs 2060 pounds; but it is a stock model. Their lightest horse trailer is 2540 pounds.
Posted 2011-04-23 8:14 AM (#133369 - in reply to #133276) Subject: RE: Getting an exact empty trailer weight
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 534 Location: Zionsville, Indiana
I would be more concerned with the Class II hitch. A Class II hitch will not accept a 2-5/16" ball, which is the size that most tandem axle trailers use. We haven't had a horse trailer with a 2" ball for many, many years. The liability factor for the manufacturers is probably the driving force.
Posted 2011-04-25 5:49 PM (#133508 - in reply to #133276) Subject: RE: Getting an exact empty trailer weight
New User
Posts: 3
Location: Panama city florida
So I basically have to upgrade to class 3 hitch even though I'll only be towing 3500 lbs at the maxium?I never knew this because previous 2 horse trailer was a rebuilt older model only weighed 1200 lbs empty with two 3500 lb axels .I put a 930 lb and a 720 lb horses at the same time had absolutely no problem whatsoever it pulled like a dream.Guess I'll be heading to Uhaul next week.I am checking into the Nextrails and Shadows.Upgrading vehicle ain't an option at this time.Will be super deligent about checking weight .Luckily we have a certified public scale at local incenerator.Thanks
Getting an exact empty trailer weight
