Posted 2009-03-06 9:59 PM (#100832) Subject: What's the oldest trailer you would consider?
Member
Posts: 25
If looking at top-notch trailers, such as Hart, 4 Star, etc, what's the oldest model you would consider buying? What about Featherlite and Sundowner - what were their "good" years?
Posted 2009-03-06 10:12 PM (#100835 - in reply to #100832) Subject: RE: What's the oldest trailer you would consider?
Member
Posts: 40
Depends on how it was used/abused, how it was cared for, and how it was stored. If it was well cared for and gently used, an older model can be in better shape than a new one. It all depends.......
Posted 2009-03-07 9:56 AM (#100851 - in reply to #100832) Subject: RE: What's the oldest trailer you would consider?
Expert
Posts: 5870
Location: western PA
I agree with all the previous threads. If the trailer is in good shape, is what I want and will do the job, I don't care how old it is. If it has broken parts, has been used and abused, I'll pass. With older trailers, some parts are difficult to replace; IE window, doors etc. A good inspection will determine what, if anything, will have to be replaced.
If the frame is solid, and there is no unusual amount of rust or corrosion, it proves that it was a well built trailer and it was taken care of. When you purchase a new trailer, you have no way of knowing what it will look like a decade from now.
With a used trailer, you have a known commodity. You can see how well it has held up and if there are any problem areas. All trailers look bright and shinny at the dealers. You will be told that it is the best thing since sliced bread. A used trailer speaks for itself.
All the brakes, bearings, tires and lights are stock items, and can be replaced fairly reasonably. A used trailer with a LQ can save you half the cost of a new one. With the many thousands of dollars in savings, you can afford the occasional repair of appliances. With a non LQ trailer, this is not an issue.