Posted 2011-07-18 11:44 AM (#135790) Subject: Fiberglass over aluminum?
Member
Posts: 18
Is there a thread discussing this around here? I've read up on aluminum skins over steel but haven't read any reviews or opinions on this yet. I found an older Sooner model which appears in very good shape, just curious about this type of construction. Any thoughts appreciated.
Also in regards to the "skins" trailers, I really was liking the Logan Coaches. They seem to fit the bill in every way for my needs and I even read up some good reviews. But was disappointed to find out they are aluminum skin over steel? I read up on the issues regarding this and decided not to even look at them. NTM, the LC are a bit pricey but w/ an 8yr warrenty I thought it may be a good investment worth considering. Does anyone know if ALL Logan Coaches are of this design? From what I've read I believe so.
Posted 2011-07-18 12:19 PM (#135792 - in reply to #135790) Subject: RE: Fiberglass over aluminum?
Veteran
Posts: 201 Location: Lincoln, NE
Did you mean aluminum over steel rather than fiberglass? I can't speak to the engineering aspects of alminum over steel construction but can relate my own experience.
I owned a 2000 Hawk that was steel construction covered with an aluminum skin. The roof was one piece fiberglass. I now longer own the trailer but always thought very highly of it and the construction.
The fiberglass roof was one piece. Despite sitting out in the rain, snow and hail for five years the trailer never had any problems with the roof leaking. The fiberglass also made the trailer a lot cooler for the horses. On a hot day the inside of the trailer was cooler than outside.
I assume the advantage of aluminum exterior is that it's less inclined to rust than steel. The downsize is that there is yearly maintenance required to maintain it especially if stored outside.
One of the problems with trying to find a well-built brand of trailer is that construction techniques change over time within the same brand. For example maybe a Sundowner 2000 would be great but a 2004 might have floor issues.
Maybe you can find several trailer brands that are constructed the way you want or are close then you'll have to take each possible trailer on it's own merits.
It's like buying a house or a car. It's very rare to get exactly what you want. Decide what are the most important aspects of a trailer for you (non-negotiable) then be willing to be flexible on the other stuff.
Posted 2011-07-18 2:12 PM (#135799 - in reply to #135790) Subject: RE: Fiberglass over aluminum?
Member
Posts: 18
Thank you, no it's actually, fiberglass skin, aluminum frame, aluminum floor, aluminum roof, 94 Sooner. I didn't even know this sort exsisted. I've worn my brain out searching and just keep on learning more and more. I'm exhausted but I am so very thankful to have found this forum and getting help. I want this to last me a LONG time, that is until the gimmies return and I can upgrade my truck as well. :O) I think buying my house was easier, ha. When hauling such precious cargo it's impt. to do it right the first time.
Posted 2011-07-18 3:05 PM (#135801 - in reply to #135790) Subject: RE: Fiberglass over aluminum?
Elite Veteran
Posts: 720
I think if you'll look closer, you'll find the aluminum floor, and aluminum roof radius. But the walls and roof are what is know as FRP, or Fiberglass Reinforced Plywood. If it is a Sooner, you've likely seen the name Dynasty on it somewhere. That was the series name for their FRP. A wonderful idea (still used in motorhomes/travel trailers today) that was short lived in the horse trailer industry. Let us just say, there were some unanticipated issues.
Posted 2011-07-18 8:32 PM (#135807 - in reply to #135790) Subject: RE: Fiberglass over aluminum?
Member
Posts: 18
Thank you so much for your post. Another member enlightened me in regards to the weight of such a trailer and now its off the list. I simply had never heard of fiberglass "skins" b/f. I'm learning a lot thanks to you and a few others! Much appreciated!
Fiberglass over aluminum?
