Posted 2013-04-29 7:43 PM (#151672) Subject: Is it worth fixing? 1991 Circle J with fiberglass skin
New User
Posts: 1
Location: Enterprise, Alabama
I own a 1991 Circle J Mark 2 horse bumper pull that has been sitting unused for 7 years. It has a fiberglass skin over a steel frame. Outside looks good ( its a purty trailer lol) but there is considerable rust eating up the frame and bottom of ramp. It also is going to have to have new tires and some or all of the floor replaced due to termite damage. Local guy is giving me an estimate of $2000 to do repairs---he is an older gentleman who has a welding shop at his house and a reputation for excellent welding work. Is this too much money to put into such an old trailer? It is super lightweight to pull and I can't find a comparable trailer in my area ( southeast Alabama).
Posted 2013-04-29 10:45 PM (#151679 - in reply to #151672) Subject: RE: Is it worth fixing? 1991 Circle J with fiberglass skin
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Steel 2H BP trailers can be purchased for relatively little money. Most can be bought outright for what you quoted the repair costs. A steel trailer with a rusted frame is not a bargain at any price. After sitting for that length of time, you will need wheel bearings, tires, brakes and electrical components in addition to the rust issues.
I would look else where for a trailer in better shape, and one that has been maintained. You may pay more in its purchase price, but spend far less to get it safely on the road. Once there, your goals are reliability, something hard to find with a rust issue.