#88 Enclosed Trailer Buyers Guide - Aluminum vs Steel - What to look for - 6 x 12 Stealth Trailer

In this video we explain enclosed cargo trailers and what to look for. We compare aluminum vs steel enclosed cargo trailers. We explain pricing and all the little details watch for when buying an enclose cargo trailers

[@k.sullivan6303]

Great information. I think one thing you failed to mention is the length of the tongue that adds a lot to ease of backing the trailer into a parking spot or driveway. This is a very important point to consider.

[@tonynicholson2697]

thank you ! Your video is helping select my first cargo trailer.

[@tinymission7821]

You give a very good, unbiased review of cargo trailers. That’s usually hard for a person to do. You gave good reasons for the choice you made. Your trailer is super sharp looking. The point you made about it blending in was really apparent as you were saying it. You did a lot of research and shared it well.

[@STV-H4H]

I live in Wisconsin so I’m well aware of the rust issue. I wash my cars at least every week, often more since I have a monthly subscription for a reasonable price. But I didn’t think about that when I decided to save that $2k. Weight is a big factor, and I think the weight was only about 150lbs. Now I’m wishing I had went aluminum. Washing it in the summer is simple, when it’s not that important. In the salty winter months it is not an easy option. I doubt that it will go thru the car wash. As for color, I was happy to find a dark grey, which does match my tow vehicle (odyssey) which is nice. It’s a 10x6. Steel. Since my anticipated usage will be limited, I may not have an issue with this. My trailer is Black Horse. ATC was comparable in price, I recall. I didn’t know they were a top tier brand. The Black Horse seems very nicely made, but I have decided that the 1/4” plywood was not sturdy enough. I’m adding additional strength by adding 1/4” plywood into the inset areas, using contact cement and mechanical fasteners. On top of that I have added another 1/2” plywood layer, also secured by the same. Giving me an inch of wall thickening, to this I intend the shelving and working surfaces. It’s all a first time project and I’m not sure how I will ultimately justify this. A recent divorce has made it an absolute necessity. Had a great 2car garage workshop for my work and home/auto repair needs. Wish things had been different. Thanks for your great informative video.

[@mypointofblue5260]

Thanks for sharing! I’m in the market for a 6x12 for landscaping. Very good info!

[@316photography7]

Ahhh Fur Elise love the piano intro 😆👍🏾

[@user-hd5fk2xm3f]

Great informative video tx!! I am looking to purchase a 6 x 12 as well to haul 2 BMW 1250 RTs and after watching the video I now have a better idea of what to look for in these. Keep up the good work

[@1nartaka]

Very good content, sound and delivery. Thank you very helpful

[@1doug62]

Good information, one thing I'd like to add. My Son's an Auto Mechanic and they work on all types of trailers, we're up in Cottage County. Most of the problems are electrical and brake problems, and wheel bearings on boat trailers. He's told me almost every aluminum trailer he's worked on has a cracked or broken frame over the axles. If you're going to buy a used aluminum trailer have it checked out before you buy it!

[@Stevensloan09]

Good info bro thank you

[@jerryperry3516]

Thank you for the video it was very helpful for my decision

[@pjfan173]

Very informative video and you have a beautiful looking property.

[@user-hd5fk2xm3f]

Excellent video!! Tx! I am currently looking into a 6 x 12 single axle trailer to haul 2 BMW 1250 RTs so I was interested by what you had to say about hauling your Harley. Keep up the good work!

[@waldo-ot6ul]

Outstanding that you for the knowledge

[@justinowens9323]

20:03 down here in sc you definitely want that roof vent during summer especially if you cut grass all that heat off the mower in between jobs ain’t no joke

[@Quick_Fast_Hurry]

Amazing video, thank you very much

[@JeLifeCoach]

Great video. Thank you.

[@user-lv3py5vm6i]

Thank you. Great information. I'm not using in the winter but live in the north so thinking I may be able to get away with steel? I can't stand OSB. I'll have to look into weight difference between steel and aluminum. This really helped.

[@jolanni7]

Thanks for making this video. Shopping for aluminum, 7x12. Going to do a build out and looking to carry more potable water than normal so opting for T/A. Many do not make a 12' with tandems. I like the ATC and DuraBull. DuraBull has a small tandem with a very nice roof rack system with ladder. Anyone know of some good quality brands?

[@bhaz1987]

Well done Stuff that really matters

[@davegladstone4151]

👍👍 Excellent video. Thank you. ✌

[@kjelllie4138]

Nice job! Thanks!

[@Blueknight-ri1ne]

Dave, Like your video, I am looking for a trailer and looking for aluminum trailer. Dave check your trailer lights on the fenders. One is backwards. Yellow should be forward and red back. Another youtuber had the same issue where the builder installed his backwards. I'm looking for a cargo trailer to haul my Can-Am Spyder RTS SE6 and maybe turn the trailer into a camper. Thanks for a great video. GDoc🚔🇺🇲

[@VonSpud]

We ended up buying a "show or demo" sled trailer. It's a Stealth Predator All Alluminum. We like it.

[@redball4093]

Nice trailer. Nice video. What about that jack at front? Looks like it may interfere with tailgate drop? I had to switch to a swivel tongue jack in order to have truck tailgate clearance. Thanks again for the video.

[@jmart4005]

Cool video. Thanks 👍

[@mndtole]

Have used a ATC 6x12 for the past 5 years doing storage locker auctions. Did notice the drag on the flat front until I put a cap on my truck.Just replaced tires and I broke the roof vent with roof rake in the winter and that is all as far as maintenance or issues

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

ATC's are really nice trailers.

[@mr.wilson8340]

My build, Alcom Aluminum Stealth UTV. Pewter, 7.5 X 16, torsion axles, white interior walls insulated, LED interior lighting, v nose cabinetry, Nudo flooring, aluminum wheels, rear LED light overhang, floor track tie down system, polished aluminum interior trim, one piece aluminum roof. Alcom builds one of the finest enclosed trailers on the market.

[@MrPuck71]

What was your price on this?

[@mr.wilson8340]

@@MrPuck71 I paid 16K but don’t let that scare you, it almost did that to me. The build quality and some of the upgrades are well worth the money. You can purchase this trailer with or without Nudo flooring, tie down system, nose cabinet etc. Depending on the build you can start at about 12K and go from there. My trailer just happened to be available with these additions and the dealer only had one. Also, E-Z Hauler is built by Alcom and is the same exact trailer. Hope this helps.

[@MrPuck71]

@@mr.wilson8340 thank you, that price is steep but Im definitely be concerned about quality and want to make sure I’m getting a good quality product. Most of what you listed are options id want

[@joshmatthewson7154]

Great video

[@nohandsdan9353]

OMG I'm glad I just watched this. I was going to add a front end like yours on my 6'x12' (keep the inside the same just exterior work) but now I won't and put that money towards other upgrades. I had a trailer built up in WI in 2010, 3/4" plywood walls, electric single axle brakes, 7' inside height, curve rounded top but driving the trailer feels like I have a parachute behind my truck. I really thought the V nose would help. I'm about to strip all the lights and raptor spray the entire thing and make it last a much much longer. Great video btw as I'll also be hauling my '21 SGS in it from time to time.

[@aaronbruinsma7072]

Great information. One other item to consider is the height of the stone guard on the front. Cheaper trailers typically have a much lower stone guard to cut costs.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Great point.

[@NoZenith]

While I do believe the stone guard in the front is important for integrity and longevity and minimizing maintenance, I have seen some of that stuff that's way overbuilt and adds significant weight to the trailer Is by rapping around the sides. I am concerned about minimizing my weight because I'm falling behind obviously that's only rated at 2500 pounds and I want to keep the weight as low as possible for handling and fuel economy. It looks like the lightweight Stainless sheets or aluminum diamond plate would more than suffice for my situation And it wouldn't have to go up very high either. It's one of those situations where people think they want a whole lot more but it's more expensive and a lot more weight that they really don't need to invest.

[@thudang3039]

Thanks for sharing!

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

You bet!

[@outdoornuggets1813]

That is not particle board. That is OSB "oriented strand board". Particle board is what very low quality furniture is made of which swells easily and desintegrates when exposed to moisture. OSB board is basically waterproof compared to particle board. Plywood is heavier than OSB board and plywood warps when it gets wet, so OSB is more desirable than plywood.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Thanks for the clarification. Love this trailer.

[@amberbali8881]

OSB is heavier than plywood not lighter. Also, not as strong.

[@tristanpedersen9056]

Also much less expensive in most cases.

[@explicittruth1471]

Osb is garbage

[@DanPenner]

Moisture will damage OSB much more easily than plywood

[@sanjosemike3137]

Beautiful Beethoven: Fur Elise. Beautiful trainers, but probably quite expensive. Sanjosemike (no longer in CA)

[@doingitwithnothing]

I like the dropped front roof angle … I think that should help on wind resistant idk

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

600 is a great unit. Love the 600 and the 800.

[@MotoM1234]

Super helpful.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Justmyopinion24]

Great video boss

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Thanks for watching

[@Jaydayallday]

Nice video. Two things though. Can latch handle be added on to side door? For extra security. And second is what do you think about under trailer with raw exposed wood that is not protected from elements. Especially where you live and same for me. Salt rain slush and whatever else. I was thinking about painting it eventually to not take in moisture. What are your thoughts?

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Not sure on the latches. The exposed wood could be an issue. I used mine all winter with no protection. I wish I would have done something there like you are thinking of doing. Should help

[@Eastern_SA]

Great vid. Learned a lot from it. Can you AC to this trailer?

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

I think you could add AC. Just need to wire it right and add a shore power hook up

[@alexanderchenf1]

What do you think about Rock Solid cargo trailer? I am thinking about buying a 6 by 12 enclosed single axle white one. I bought the same one before back in 2018 for $2,300 with an extended triple-tube tongue. Now a dealer is charging $3,600 without the extended tongue

[@zebcokid2097]

What are your thoughts about single vs dual axle?

[@Utubeisazzho]

I went with a brand that’s been around since the 80s. Carmate 8x18

[@AliAhmadi-hq9pj]

Thanks

[@williamrandall6472]

I didn't know a lot about cargo(enclosed)trailers,but I ended up with a Cross Alpha V-nose 7x16 tandem axle,and I am doing my best to do a self conversion on the trailer. Does anyone know, is Cross a good brand to have?

[@MrBuckshot18]

"Some funky stuff like red or blue" lmao

[@bradleymaddy7380]

I would like to hear your opinion Sir, I’m looking to add some storage, I’m based in Ohio. I’ve looked at storage buildings & I’ve looked at enclosed trailers, the buildings require permits & some labor for pad prep, the trailer requires license plates….which way should I lean is my question, basically I’ll be storing a UTV & a zero turn

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Personally, I would go with the enclose trailer. They are so useful and if you move, you can take it with you. I love mine and wish I would have purchased it years ago.

[@bradleymaddy7380]

@@timbertimeoutdoors9836 I went with a 8.5x20 V nose with extra height! It’s perfect for my needs. Thank You

[@ta31ify]

What are you towing this with? I am trying to figure out what to do for a trailer to haul a bagger also and tow with a 2 door Bronco. I rented a 6x12 for a day that had a wheel chock and it was pretty nice loading, but it was tall and I didn’t really like it at much over 70 miles an hour with the short wheel base in the side wind. I’m trying to decide between a 6x10 or a 5x8 or 5x10 thinking they would pull a little nicer or maybe I wouldn’t notice a difference. A 5 wide wouldn’t hang out the sides much and not be as tall, not sure if it would help or not. If I had a half ton pickup I would do 6x12 all day. Anyway, thanks for all the valuable information on enclosed trailers.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Yes, tow vehical matters. I have an F250. Can't feel anything behind that truck. Also double tow behind my 5th Wheel and it also works great there.

[@jeffwoodruff4568]

Question for the channel, you indicated 6 x 12 for hauling motorcycles. I need to get the smallest and lightest trailer possible but once or twice a year I will have to haul two Harley Ultra Limiteds which have the bat wing and lower fairings. Just under 900 lbs when fueled and ready. Can it be done in a 6 x 12? I've heard conflicting information. Thanks in advance.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Hi, I have seen pictures of this but I would not recommend it. 6 x12 Steel is not possible as the payload is under the total weight of two baggers. 6 x 12 Aluminum is really pushing it. Payload is right at the max. You will run the risk of a tire blow out or bearing issues. The pics I have seen show one bike in backwards and the rear bags removed. To safely tow two baggers, you really need a duel axel and 7' wide. I do two mine with two bikes but only one is a bagger and the other is a small light naked bike.

[@jolanni7]

@@timbertimeoutdoors9836 There are a couple companies that make 12' with tandems. Durabull being one of them. I like the idea of a smaller trailer but with added capacity of a t/a. That may work if the square footage works for the bikes.

[@kevindouglass5175]

@@jolanni7 Also keep in mind tongue weight. Tow smart . Tow Safe.

[@davecrabb6416]

Sure-Trac Makes twin axle models and I would not put two Harleys in a single axle. You need the weight rating though. That is 2,000 lbs of motorcycle for payload and you don’t have any accessories, spare tires or other things you will want to store. Weigh everything you add to be sure where you are at weight wise. Anything bolted to mine is weighed and recorded so I can track my Gross Weight and load capacity. Don’t forget a spare wheel and tire is at least 80 lbs. It adds up quick. My 6x12 outfitted for one motorcycle and some personal touches is only leaving room for 500lbs so that’s a nice ride for the load without being stressed.

[@randycessna4403]

I might not been listening,but is the outside....on that brand have thick tin on it? What is common?And does the exterior tin have a Luan or thin plywood or osb backing?

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

The skins on this are thin aluminum and easy to dent. All brands do this the same way in terms of thickness. I got some hail damage right after I filmed this video. Inside, mine is thin OSB.

[@johnnieblackburn3182]

I saw a video earlier where the narrator said the 24 gauge aluminum siding would dent easier, and would ripple slightly during travel or when you put pressure on it, even making a little bit of noise when travelling. He suggested one might want to go with 30 gauge which seemed to be sturdier, and without the rippling. He said it also had a slightly rippled look. I could see the difference, and decided I would want the sturdier siding. He also pointed out the stone guard diamond plate on the lower front of the trailer, may not come up very much, and therefore, your siding in the front, would get pelted with stones from the towing vehicle, and show dents and wear. Again, I will look for a higher amount of stone guard on the front.

[@homelessnomad101]

I've been looking at Alum 7x14s may end up with a 7x12 don't want to overtax my ford F150/ 5.4.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

So far we are loving this size. It might be the most useful tool I have. We use it more than expected and it works so well. When not towing, its a nice little storage shed too.

[@homelessnomad101]

@@timbertimeoutdoors9836 A good-looking trailer.

[@tradesman63]

Is the floor OSB treated on the bottom side?

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

I am not sure. I did put down an epoxy floor on the inside. that works well.

[@rayheppner8391]

There will most certainly be a difference in fuel mileage between towing a flat front trailer and a V-nose, especially as the trailer gets taller & wider than tow vehicle. Aerodynamics matters much more than weight for fuel economy when towing a trailer.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

That makes sense. I do the double tow so fuel economy is bad no matter what. Too much weight with two trailers at the same time

[@journeyman291]

U won't get any better mileage. It likes those air foils people used to put on top of p u. trucks pulling rvs, 5th wheels. In theory yes but didn't help abit except deflect some bugs. Now maybe if you were pushing the trailer the "V" might help a little. Lol.

[@NoZenith]

I've looked up the studies and none of them show the V front significantly impacts fuel economy. Height is the biggest determining factor in the studies that discussed it. Skirting And rear trailer treatments that help the air not pull around and hit the back causing increased drag actually showed measurable improvement in fuel economy though. Picture a teardrop trailer and how they get really thin in the back so the air just kind of slides off of it. I have seen semi trucks with side skirts and sheets of rigid plastic that hang off the back pointing inward and downward from the top to reduce turbulence behind the trailer And that's what those studies were describing I believe

[@rayheppner8391]

@@NoZenith The drag coefficient of a cube is 1.05 the drag coefficient of a cone is .5. So depending on what the tow vehicle is and the height of the trailer there will be a difference.

[@NoZenith]

@rayheppner8391 re read my statement. I was very clear in carefully addressing what you're talking about. There is no significant appreciable difference. Do whatever fits your build/ budget. Google the information like I did ffs. Studies conclusively point to height measurably affecting fuel economy but the shape of the front of the trailer affecting so minimally that it's not a concern

[@McCamerCoach]

How high are the walls. Head clearance? Does 6 foot wall mean I’m banging my 6 foot head and helmet against the roof?

[@darrylpaterick3108]

0SB floor? Need plywood for the floor. Especially underneath.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

I put an epoxy garage floor kit on it and wow is that great. Very durable. Agree, that plywood is better but this is working well now.

[@twig7105]

Would you give me the approximate price that you paid for this trailer? I’m in the Florida region so looking for aluminum with the salty air. Thanks

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

I think it was $6500 or close to that. These are twice what they were a few years ago.

[@homelessnomad101]

@@timbertimeoutdoors9836 Everyone picked up on the RV conversion craze (use to be able to pick them up for half of what they're selling for now). I keep hoping to find a used one that's not total garbage.

[@seanknapp2662]

That sounds like a good price. How far north are you? I drive 2 or 3 hours north to Staughton then west of Milwaukee to a Pace dealer. It seems you guys in Wisconsin have more to choose from. I'm still figuring out the brand I want. Stealth seems higher quality?

[@mowomedia4801]

@@timbertimeoutdoors9836 Are they more expensive because the price of wood and metal? Wood prices have come down. I've been waiting on prices of trailers to come down some as it's difficult to pull the trigger when you got a quote on the SAME trailer back in 2019.

[@RoyalKennedy601]

@@seanknapp2662I’m not impressed with the cheap flap on the ramp and I’m having g trouble with the cables on my stealth

[@Mark300win]

Im torn apart whether to purchase a 6' or 7' wide trailer... towing it with SUV why do you think?

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

If you don't mind the extra cost of the 7' wide, I would do that. I had some weight limitations. 7' lets you do larger UTV or two big motorcycles. Assuming your SUV can tow it, go with 7" wide.

[@johnnieblackburn3182]

You will lose some of the interior's stated width from the framing of the sides. So, the interior width will be less than 6' or 7'.

[@Mannievh]

How much did you pay for this trailer? Thanks for the video?

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

I think it was $7200. They are more now.

[@thomasmiller8214]

I know this is unlikely to happen but what if you have both a RV side door and a bar lock on your trailer you’re sleeping in and someone comes along and closes the bar lock on you! I’m thinking about a trailer and that has crossed my mind, especially if you don’t have windows to egress from! That’s why I’m shying away from the combination of both for the side door. May seem paranoid but in this crazy ass world who knows. Especially if you’re boondocking somewhere away from others.

[@robotica6089]

Are you ready to sell it yet? I'm looking!❤

[@jakesnake6007]

What is the name of the trailer @ 3:40??

[@Nautihawg]

surprised to see the spring is bolted to the frame like that - galvanic corrosion will eat the AL frame in this area.

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Yes, might be a problem. Possibe there is a spacer but not sure.

[@davecrabb6416]

If isolated with a wood panel and use stainless hardware should not be an issue

[@losduarte2229]

Maybe a stupid question but without a window on your door, can't someone lock you into your trailer 😂. Even with a lock on the clamp, the latch can still catch the lock 🤷

[@mowomedia4801]

What is your tow vehicle?

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

I have a super duty but you can tow this with an SUV or small truck. Just need about 5000lb towing capacity.

[@dapjed2376]

You need a spare tire! Hope for the best but plan for the worst.

[@JustMe-999a]

Particle board and osb aren't the same thing. That's osb

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

You are correct. Thanks for clarifying that for us.

[@JoePAcalaughs]

What's the difference? Thank you

[@tinymission7821]

Particle board is basically sawdust glued up into a panel while osb is thin chips/pieces glued up. When particle board gets wet, it expands and crumbles. The osb, supposedly has a bonding agent making it more waterproof. I have my doubts. But, I only have experience with it from years ago. There may have been improvements since then. All I know is when I see the inside of that trailer with all that osb (oriented strand board), my heart sinks.

[@JustMe-999a]

@@tinymission7821 look at new house construction. OSB is everywhere.

[@bigdogbulldog9912]

No difference between a vnose qnd a flat nose ?really lol

[@JohnC-kc5uh]

Terrible choice of music unless you are fruity

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

Yes, I need to get better with the music. Need to be careful about copywriter violations.

[@astromannnnn]

I want to stop the condensation on the roof, walls of my aluminium animal trailer, any idea on a insulation or something I can put on the roof walls to prevent condensation? Many thanks

[@timbertimeoutdoors9836]

I will be making a video on what I did soon. I put the ridged pink foam insolation in between the framing and then covered it with some thin white paneling. works really well.

[@user-hd5fk2xm3f]

Great informative video tx!! I am looking to purchase a 6 x 12 as well to haul 2 BMW 1250 RTs and after watching the video I now have a better idea of what to look for in these. Keep up the good work

[@user-hd5fk2xm3f]

Great informative video tx!! I am looking to purchase a 6 x 12 as well to haul 2 BMW 1250 RTs and after watching the video I now have a better idea of what to look for in these. Keep up the good work!!!

[@user-hd5fk2xm3f]

Great informative video tx!! I am looking to purchase a 6 x 12 as well to haul 2 BMW 1250 RTs and after watching the video I now have a better idea of what to look for in these. Keep up the good work!!!