Harbor Freight Utility Trailer Build DIY

I finally put together the second HB trailer I bought last fall. The first one I turned into my kayak trailer. I have a video of it on my channel. I sprayed the entire frame with undercoating. All the wood is treated or cedar with two coats of polyurethane. The side's of the trailer are also removable. Instead of lag bolts, my neighbor made hitch pins from bar stock. The pins can be pulled out when the sides are not needed.
This trailer should last a long time. My old trailer is from 2005.
#utilitytrailer #harborfreighttrailer #harborfreight
Link to my Harbor Freight Double Kayak Trailer Build:
• Harbor Freight Double ...
UPDATE! 6-30-2020
for this trailer. See how it looks now. Nearing its third year.
• 2-3 YEAR UPDATE ON MY ...
If you use any links below, i get a little kickback. It will help my channel out a lot. thank you in advance. Make sure you check the specs and fit your application before ordering. products cgange all the time.
Here's some Amazon parts options:
These are the lights I bought. The Lights themselves are doing well. But to be transparent, the wiring turned to powder after one year. If you click on the link and take a look at the item, I believe I still get commission if you look for an updated LED light. Not sure. Always check the reviews especially about the wiring. I ended buying aftermarket wiring locally and rewiring the lights. They were using some reddish chemical for snow melting one winter and it wrecked the wires.
They have since gone back to salt.
LED Submersible lights
geni.us/Zlhxy
The gear I used on my trailer projects were from Red Trailer and I believe they are no longer in business. The Amazon links below look similar but I do NOT have hands on experience with them. I receive questions about where to get these Parts, so I added similar one's I found on Amazon to assist.
HEKA 8 PC Utility Trailer Wood Sides Latch Rack Stake Body Gates Corner Brackets with Screws
geni.us/5t1V2
Set of Steel Trailer Square Tail Light Mounting Boxes - 24017/24018
geni.us/3pjBf
Pkg of (2) Corner Gate Latch Sets for Stake Body Gates - Clear Zinc
geni.us/wYL8B5X

[@scottcorthell3690]

I must have watched every KZbin video on this trailer and most were very helpful. Yours by far was the best and it gave me ideas for mine. I basically built it the same with stake sides , used Pressure treated instead of cedar , way cheaper., and I didn't paint it . Otherwise looks pretty much the same. Thanks for the great video and ideas.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks!. Everytime I look back and watch the video, I critic it. I hope you bought the trailer light guards. They are worth every penny. I have yet to break a LED light.

[@jhitt79]

Nice job. It's hard to beat that trailer for the money for light duty applications. I would highly recommend not using plywood for the floor though. If you use 5/4 deck boards then the rain can drain through and if you had something damage the floor you can replace a board or two instead of having to pull up the whole 4'x8' sheet.

[@billcoomber4642]

I treated my plywood deck with 2 coats of penetrating epoxy thinned down with acetone so it penetrates really well. Makes the deck almost as durable as steel. Learned this trick from a boat wright I worked with.

[@guyh.4553]

GREAT idea using the undercoating! Smart! Instead of the hitch pins for the removable sides, I found on Pintrest to use T-Nuts on the 2 X 4s. Makes it nice and snug!

[@TroysHobbies]

Guy H. Thanks.

[@TuesdaysWithJustin]

Could you post pictures of how you setup the T-Nuts for the removable sides? Looking to do the same to my trailer

[@tylerperry7552]

T-nuts could be installed on the inside of each stake and bolted from the outside. Would work well for a permanent or semi-permanent install and reduce rattles. If you are installing/removing them often, a hitch pin variant & clip would allow for a much quicker and tool-less install/removal.

[@brandonGCHACHU]

Hope you degreased the paint first. Ive painted over those HF trailers and that red starts coming through with every scratch and starts to peel unless I degrease it first

[@BackOutside]

damn the lumber on that is worth 10x the trailer is worth in todays market haha

[@jude7321]

Hi, does the back drop open for loading a lawnmower? Good job, looks great

[@TroysHobbies]

Yes I can remove the tail gate and use a ramp to load my John Deer riding mower. If I remove all six pins, I can remove all sides too if I want a complete flat bed.

[@jude7321]

Thank you so much for the quick response. Whoo Hoo 🎉 You scored!!!

[@TroysHobbies]

@@jude7321 Thanks. If you asked me two days ago, I would post a video of it with the tailgate off. I just so happen to fill it with heavy scrap metal. Once I get it emptied, I'll do a video for you.

[@TroysHobbies]

@@jude7321 do you just want to see me remove the tailgate?. I can do that for you right now. If you want all sides removed, it will be a couple days

[@jude7321]

Oh thank you Troy, I would just like to see you take the tailgate down.

[@Tailgatesntoolboxes]

Where did you get the light gaurd boxes from? Years ago i had a old 5x5 frame from a old pop up camper. Anyway between stuff i had lying around and $400 in misc parts n wood....i had a decent lil trailer.i got a good 10 years use out of it and its paid for itself 1000x over litterly. It finally rotted away n i scrapped it.

[@TroysHobbies]

LongIslandP8ntball I believe that the company I bought the light guards from might be out of business. Redtrailers.com

[@guyh.4553]

Watching again after a good couple of years use on mine. You can get those corners, hitch pins, and gate locks at Home Depot, Lowes, True Value, Ace, & my preference at farm stores.

[@mini_worx]

Great looking build. Looks like you took your time and didn't cut any corners.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks!.

[@Stucknarutt]

Outstanding finished project my friend. Great job and a good looking one as well. Another good video that has made my decision to buy one easier. Should have it and be putting it together tomorrow evening. Thank you for sharing and showing sir.

[@TroysHobbies]

Stucknarutt Thanks!. You know how it goes...projects never end. 😂

[@Traderhood]

So it seems because of the way you did the wooden guards you can’t haul any 4x8 panels anymore. Trailer looks very nice but I would move those guards bit more out so you can still use the trailer to haul 4x8 panels too. Just the thought for anyone considering doing this.

[@alexreid4131]

I am about to do a similar build with my 4 x 8 HF folding trailer. I am going to shave off a 1/4 inch for each treated 2"x4" stake. That will compensate for the 1/2 inch boards I am going to use for the sides and should give me the max 4' x 8' I need for transporting sheet goods.

[@personjo100]

I would think you could just take the sides off and strap the goods down.

[@thezfunk]

Good thought, I was wondering this as I am about to put mine together.

[@TroysHobbies]

@thezfunk I did place the posts on the inside.

[@jasonbarnes2636]

I’m glad there are several manufacturers selling those latches on Amazon.

[@DestroVR6]

Great Build! I just bought one this week and am planning on doing a similar setup. Thanks for the details!! Love the cedar!!

[@themojomoment9507]

Heads up. Side latches do not fit 2x4s. There is not enough room for bolts.

[@ad8881]

Looks great. The inside dimensions are like the plywood floor piece 4x8 ideal for carrying 4x8 full sheets but with the rails inside the posts doesn’t that cut into the inside dimensions? I think I’ll lap join the rails on my build.

[@marcster13]

For anyone considering buying a trailer. I just went through a nightmare and not sure it's finished. It took a total of 3 stores. I went online to look for the closet store that had heavier duty one in stock. The store closet to me had none, so I went to the second closet. They told me they do not have any. They had one sitting up front on display. It turns out the one on display they are counting as inventory. I told them I'd take it and they told me no. They know these trailers are often hard to find so they trick people into coming into that store location for the trailer, only to be told they actually do not have any, even though it's sitting right in front of everyone as a display. Very crooked or at least dishonest. Anyhow, they at least call another store but it's pretty far. They confirmed they had the trailer I wanted in stock. What was interesting is the guy was clear to me that they had both matching boxes. At the time this seemed odd to say but I didn't pay much attention to it. I get to the store and pick up a couple of items and tell them I'm there to pick up the trailer. They bring it out in two boxes. The guy gets nervous because he has to fill out the title stuff. Had a 'how to' binder, I assume the store created so the paperwork gets completed correctly. It was a disaster. He was coming things out and stamping in the wrong place. I was like hey man are you sure you know what you are doing. He asked a couple of people for help. They assured me all is good with the paperwork. I ended up going to the store next to me to have a manager review because it looked off to me still. She made a correction but no stamp in front of the title. I went to get the title and registration a few days later. They basically laughed at me. Told me to get an affidavit and correct the stamp location. I went to the store closest to me again for this. She was very helpful but had to call the store manager in the place I bought it from originally. I went back to get it registered and after a lot of people reviewed the paperwork they decided to do it but advised it could come back later as not valid. So it was a nightmare going through all this. Lots of my time wasted. I hadn't even put it together yet. Now get this. I open the large box with all the parts because I wanted to paint it with a paint that would not fade like the factory paint does. What's odd is i unpack a front cross member. In my head I'm like oh wow, I thought this only came with the light weight version of the trailer. I'm like sweet, they upgraded. I take all the red parts out and paint them. Looks great. Lots of time spent on it. I planned on putting it together this weekend. Even though I've watched at least ten videos on how to put it together I decided to read the manual. I almost crapped myself. The manual is for the smaller trailer!!!! They gave me the wrong trailer!!!!! I paid for the heavy duty version and they gave me the lighter version. Wth!!! It turns out this goes back to the comment about two matching boxes. They gave me the small box of the heavy trailer which has the wheels and springs. The large box is all the framing and axle of the lighter trailer. What a joke! I've put so much time ahead work into this already without even assembling it, even have a wood deck purchased and cut. I can't return it at this point with all the registration fees paid, the frame painted and the store being an hour away. I will put it together and see how it turns out. Not happy about it at all. This also means the next person will get mixed boxes, or maybe it happened before me and I got the mixed boxes. This is just a warning for anyone thinking of getting a trailer. First, call the store to see if they are trying to be crooked by showing a display as available inventory online. Two, when they bring out two boxes make sure they match! If you make it to three, demand a manager completes the paperwork and that the manager goes slow. Any corrections or scribbles will require you to go back and get an affidavit later. If someone from Harbor Freight contacts me and makes this right I will let everyone know. I will be sharing this in many places to get the word out.

[@ricardog.1465]

If you don't mind me asking , what size carrage bolts for the frame and the front corners and the back latches ? Thank you

[@secretlake5528]

Wrap the chains and chains in rubber tubing !like gasline I hunt and get firewood at the same time

[@cubey]

I want to build an enclosed box on one of those trailers. It shouldn't be too hard or heavy, using 2x2 or 2x3 boards for the framing. 7/16 pywood for the walls and roof, painted with white premium outdooor paint and sealed up with rv grade lap sealant that won't crack like silicone. It won't be true 4x8 inside the box, but that's fine for what I want it for.

[@TrashxXxpanda]

This is by far the nicest set up for a harbor freight trailer I've seen, definitely buying one and going this route!

[@ShakespeareCafe]

The black paint looks stunning. Keep people guessing if that's a HF special.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks.

[@ArbitraryLifestyle]

Any idea what those interlocking corner brackets may be called? Having a hard time finding anything similar online...

[@ArbitraryLifestyle]

I'll be damn, just found them on Amazon 4 seconds later: www.amazon.com/Trailer-Sides-Rack-Corner-Brackets/dp/B00JEJW69Q

[@jorgegaray3786]

ArbitraryLifestyle thanks for that link!

[@Bigblueskies]

Outstanding!! I was trying to figure out the wood dimensions. Did you use 1 x 6 or 1 x 8? And how many inches between the horizontal planks?

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks. I didn't really talk about the wood dimensions because there's so many options. I used 1x6 with a 2" gap. I just cut a 2" wood piece to place in between as a spacer. The whole thing is only 20" high. My previous trailer had 45" sides and I tended to over load the trailer. So I lowered the sides.

[@Bigblueskies]

@@TroysHobbies Thank-you, Troy!!

[@brucemillerjr4073]

Beautiful trailer. Are the cotter pin bolts through the metal and the wood or do the walls just sit on top of them

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks. The pins go all the way through.

[@billcoomber4642]

Well done! Lots of good ideas here...the pins for locking the stake sides is a great idea...

[@TroysHobbies]

@@billcoomber4642 Thank you! I appreciate you watching the video

[@2AEnthusiast]

You and your neighbor did a great job. I picked up a few good ideas.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thank you. I miss my neighbor. I'll pass it on to him through my prayers.

[@thomasgarrison3949]

Great job, I done my older I ton Harbor Freight Tilt bed trailer like yours, except I have a boat wench on the front!

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks.

[@prawnstar502]

i came on youtube show i can watch a slide show about pictures

[@guyh.4553]

Love the undercoat/Rhino lining on the frame. I definitely need to change out my L-brackets for those wall connector thingy's.

[@TroysHobbies]

@@guyh.4553 the undercoating only lasts a few years and it never dries. I was getting it all over myself.

[@dustinetokiko]

another one. I purchased the same latches that you did (found on Amazon), did you paint yours to shine them up, add a clean look?

[@TroysHobbies]

Dustine Doran I bought the latches from a specialty trailer parts store online. I believe the company went out of business shortly after. They came looking like what’s in the video. No extra buffing.

[@dmrtechnology6033]

Add me to the cheerleading section. I've been thinking about getting one of these trailers for months, and spent most of last night studying the owners/instruction manual, trying to figure out exactly how I would build out the deck and sides. I first spotted a picture of your design online, immediately loved it, followed it to your video, and you have provided ideal answers to nearly every issue I was considering as I reviewed the manual. Your experience with the previous trailer obviously prepared you well for your next build out, and now all the rest of us who want/need a similar design have you (and your contributing neighbors) to thank for saving us a TON of time/aggravation with your making/posting of such a great video documenting your work. Thank you SO much for sharing it!

[@TroysHobbies]

You're too kind. I always look back on my builds and wonder what I could have done better or on the cheaper side. Over all, I'm happy with it. Thanks.

[@dmrtechnology6033]

@@TroysHobbies … you're most welcome. I recently did a pretty major build of a self-contained soft drink service kiosk on top of a bigger, heavy duty utility trailer base, and learned a lot of things about trailers from that project, which are now guiding my choices on this, much smaller project. ONLY things I think I might do differently are: 1) start with the heavier duty HF model (1,750 lb. capacity, wider tires, hitch for a 2-inch tow ball); 2) split the deck to retain folding capability; 3) substitute cheaper lumber for the cedar, which is beautiful to be sure, but a bit too fancy for my needs.

[@737smartin]

Nice video. Been a while. Anything you'd do differently? Bonus question...how many cans of spray-on bedliner did it take to get good coverage?

[@dandledamnstien7060]

Sound so much like John Lithgow

[@AJ-ds9xq]

Learning something new everyday! Thanks for sharing!

[@theyason5473]

Great looking trailer! Is the frame painted with just black paint or did you use the bed liner stuff?

[@theyason5473]

Watched it again and heard you answer Lol

[@schvanysepitome8500]

What's the answer

[@shaneraymer5147]

nice build! im starting up a business and really need a truck but decided to just get a HF trailer instead. much better than having a truck payment.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thank you. This is my third HF trailer. No major issues with any of them. I wish you the best with your new business.

[@shaneraymer5147]

Troys Hobbies that’s good to hear! Thank you I appreciate it!

[@shaneraymer5147]

Troys Hobbies that’s good to hear! Thank you I appreciate it!

[@Lanninglongarmmowing]

Where did you get the light guard boxes?

[@TroysHobbies]

Love2boat92 I believe the company went out of business. Try Amazon.

[@noahriding5780]

Do you have to register these kinds of small trailers with the DMV? Or are they excempt? How does that work?

[@TroysHobbies]

Yes, it's comes with the title and the harbor freight folks help you out with the forms. After I had it assembled, I just took the paperwork to my DOL office. It might differ in your state or location. They never even saw my trailer.

[@hastingb]

That is one good looking trailer.

[@TroysHobbies]

Robert Hastings Thank you!

[@Nessal83]

How tight do you turn the bolts? There are no torque specs anywhere except for the wheel itself...some of sheet metal bends with no force at all like the two 19mm that holds the leaf springs on....also the u-bolt spring plate bends quite easily when torquing down....any advice?

[@TroysHobbies]

I don't recall bending any metal. Maybe they changed materials since then?. I'm not sure. I would crank bolts down with my air compressor with no issue. I honestly can't recall.

[@stevesanchez4310]

I’m going to make for next week

[@wakawaka1976]

Does adding a couple of feet to the height greatly increase its wind resistance? We have a little utility trailer with around a 10 inch high bar around it. What are the reasons people don’t build their trailers taller? I’m guessing wind resistance and visibility? I use mine for camping and was trying to find out best options to consider. It would be cool to toss in a bunch of stuff without worrying about it flying out. We have 5 kids…

[@TroysHobbies]

Depending on the material... Extra weight and drag. My old trailer had 4x8 on the sides cut down to 3 feet high.

[@noahriding5780]

How would someone secure side panels and the enclosure to the frame if it was a small utility trailer that didn't have those post hole slots (or stake holder slots)? Thanks.

[@TroysHobbies]

This brand and model comes with stake attachment points. I'm not sure about other brands.

[@MeMe-cd1wy]

Do you have wood measurement list for railings? Can you please post in comments?

[@TroysHobbies]

Sorry, I don't. The railings can be whatever you want them to be.

[@Ranger11413]

Dude ..... your trailer is fantastic.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thank you!

[@jessimrochko]

Peettta -Louis voice

[@PaulDGreen-bu4iz]

Great job! How much do you have in it total counting the trailer cost? Thank you for sharing!

[@TroysHobbies]

Hi Paul, filming this was last minute and I honestly didn't even keep records when it came to cost. Sorry I couldn't give you the total price. I do know I would have spend less money if I lived in the city. It was a 122 mile round trip everytime I went to the city for parts and supplies.

[@pisto_run_cycling]

Looks sick.. I want a trailer now..

[@jperez9941]

I just bought a used one just like this today and ran into this video. Guess what I'm doing this weekend? Lol

[@AbortedEvolution]

Happen to know the distance between the two vertical side stakes? Is it all of the 4 feet it appears to be? Hoping to squeeze a truck box I have between them.

[@TroysHobbies]

AbortedEvolution a little short. 46 3/4 inches.

[@fredbear205]

Which model trailer is this one?

[@TroysHobbies]

Fred Bear 1195 lbs. Capacity 48 in. x 96 in. Heavy Duty Folding Trailer. Item#62648

[@davidjaramillo6554]

Nice job on the trailer could you tell me how tall the sides are

[@TroysHobbies]

From the bottom of the stake post, it's 24". Measured from the floor of the trailer, it's 21". You can make it shorter or taller or even with solid plywood sides.

[@boomerrumor8252]

Nice trailer

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks

[@jvelle7251]

Nice build 👌

[@TroysHobbies]

Joseph Castanon Thank you.

[@davea5150]

Hi I am in Pennsylvania. Looking at Harbor freight trailers. My question is how do you obtain a title for it? And can you put a ramp on the back of these for a mower or whatever you want to push up on the trailers. Thank you!!! David. NICE JOB!!!

[@TroysHobbies]

It comes with a title for you to register. I'm in Washington state. I live out in a rural area so my registering was easy. I took the title in and paid the fees and I was given a plate and registration. Your area might be stricter and require an inspection of the trailer. It's titled as a utility trailer. I recommend that you call your licensing office.

[@davea5150]

@@TroysHobbies I believe it is more strict here. I'll call a notary public and see.

[@jaimel4740]

Sounds like Dan Aykroyd 🤔 Great job on the trailer

[@TroysHobbies]

Thank you.

[@alanramos5200]

what is the name of the screws you used could you help me

[@TroysHobbies]

To secure the plywood down? I used carriage bolts. For the rails, I used lag bolts.

[@luigiprovencher]

How many stake pockets would I need for an old 4x8 flat bed utility trailer? It's a homemade jobby made out of an old mobile home axle. It has a shit ton of leaf springs on it so after spending almost $300 dollars on some new tires for it I'm trying to setup it to do some scrapping in.

[@TroysHobbies]

My trailer has a total of 8. Two on each side. You might want to add a few more depending on the weight your carrying. Just don't go over the max weight.

[@luigiprovencher]

@@TroysHobbies Yeah! I noticed that while I was watching your video, lol Idk what the max weight limit is supposed to be where it's a home made trailer. It was a nightmare trying to get this thing registered in NH since it came from Mass and I had little to no information about it's history. Thanks for the quick reply.

[@johnnygreen1069]

Very nice

[@dmc8921]

It looks so nice you may have just convinced me to buy one. I need a small boat/ dirtbike/ utility trailer. I need to check out already made options but this seems like the most versatile out of the ones ive seen.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks!. Make sure you check out my kayak trailer build for more ideas.

[@enterBJ40]

Nice looking trailer. Your neighbor is awesome with wood.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks!. He does fantastic work

[@jimbo5635]

Wanted to add there is a coupon out now that expires in 4/30/19 for the HD version of this trailer for $349. limit 4 , I plan on picking one up, I will paint it with the rustoleum bedliner. The factory powder coat on these trailers flake, and fade easily. I plan on basically duplicating your build, but I plan on painting the plywood with the bedliner also.

[@TroysHobbies]

Jim Bo Nice! I had three total. Now two on use. One is a kayak trailer.

[@guyh.4553]

Sorry to tell you that those 20% off coupons won't work on these trailers. Read the ultra fine print on the coupon & it says it.

[@jimbo5635]

@@guyh.4553 I never said the 20% would work with the trailer. There is a coupon for the trailer. How hard is that to understand. You do know They have other coupons beside the 20%.

[@jimbo5635]

@@guyh.4553 go to there website. The siperduty is no coupon, but now they got a coupon for heavy-duty up for 259.00 glad you brought it up think I eill go get the cheaper one

[@VitorMadeira]

Excellent final result. And really good idea on making it totally modular. I'm looking for ideas on DIY trailers so your's seems really good. Thank you and greetings from Portugal.

[@keyworthgraphics]

but where to find that hardware!??

[@TroysHobbies]

Amazon store

[@keyworthgraphics]

@@TroysHobbies got it thank you

[@dustinetokiko]

Hi Troy, beginning my trailer project. Question maybe for your woodworker, but what size routing bit did he use to round the edges of horizontal boards. Also, is the inside of the board rough or did he sand? I’m using the standard 1x6 size. Thanks!

[@TroysHobbies]

Hi Dustin. The wood was in great shape. He originally bought the higher quality wood for another project. No Sanding. I guess there are different levels of wood grades. I'm sorry that I can't have the other questions properly answered. My neighbor, friend, woodworker has terminal cancer. 😢

[@dustinetokiko]

Hi Troy, I’m so deeply sorry to hear about your friend the woodworker. I’ll say a little prayer for him and his family.

[@dustinetokiko]

Hi Troy, I hope you are well. I think found the same wood your friend used. I hope he is doing well. When you sanded the trailer what grit did you use? Also did you use a circular sander? Thanks in advance.

[@TroysHobbies]

@@dustinetokiko I used a circular sander with 100 grit. I sanded it enough to take off the shine. So it would stick better. The black undercoating leaves it a little tacky. You might want to go with a a conventional metal paint.

[@cheapskateaquatics7103]

How difficult was it to get it registered?

[@TroysHobbies]

I walked in to the DOL and 10 minutes later, I had my registration

[@dustinetokiko]

Hi Troys, great job and I'm so excited to fix up my same trailer. I'm a girl so I might not know all of the language and have a few questions if you don't mind: 1) Did you use flat black rustolium spray paint? With Primer? 2) What size are your cedar planks? 3) Did you treat the wood and what did you use? Thank you so much!

[@TroysHobbies]

Dustine Doran I live out in the country so everything’s further away. You might live near the city, you might have more options. Let the retailer know what you need it for and they can help you out with selecting the right products. For the primer, Its flat.

[@TroysHobbies]

Dustine Doran The cedar planks are 5 1/4”s. Whatever size you want to use. Just don’t go too thin. It might not be as sturdy. You can even go with a solid piece of chemically treated plywood if you want.

[@TroysHobbies]

Dustine Doran I used Minwax quick dry Polyurethane for the wood. Two coats

[@GillyGomez]

I'm been looking for them type of latches for my trailoer. Do you know what they are called bud?

[@TroysHobbies]

My3Stars utility trailer corner brackets

[@jawharris]

On Amazon: utility trailer corner brackets Corner Gate Latch Sets for Stake Body Gates

[@Thirdplace4life]

Very nice but there's one massive flaw. You can't fit a 4 x 8 sheet of anything in there. The side fence needs to be recessed into the 2x4's

[@annetttt]

You sound like dan akroid

[@TroysHobbies]

@@annetttt Thank you!. That's a compliment in my book. I get that a lot here on KZbin. 👍

[@CoffeePot42]

Where do I find the hardware you used?

[@TroysHobbies]

Extra hardware came from my local mom and pop hardware store. You can build it to any configuration you want. Solid sides or like I have it, or totally box it in. Just keep the total weight in mind.

[@luigiprovencher]

Did you actual scrap that old trailer frame or were you able to rebuild it and turn it into something else?

[@TroysHobbies]

It was given to a neighbor

[@luigiprovencher]

@@TroysHobbies Oh! Nice. I'm starting to regret having taken this trailer. Lol So I'm probably going to have to try not looking into it too much further because of how it was built but the guy swore up and down how rugged and or heavy duty it was.

[@michaelsw0rd]

hi what did you stain and finish the wood with?

[@TroysHobbies]

My neighbor used his Polyurethane to coat it the first time. It was a large bulk play...I don't remember the name of it. My neighbor since passed away. I have just used Minwax polyurethane to keep it looking good.

[@dennismadigan2023]

Very nice. I am getting a HF trailer soon. Nice job

[@TroysHobbies]

Dennis Madigan I’m not sure they are selling HF trailers anymore. Specially after the tire recall. Last time I checked their website, it wasn’t even listed. You might have to go with another brand.

[@dennismadigan2023]

Troys Hobbies I was just at my local Hf and they have them advertised for sale and in stock. They are also in my monthly magazine adds.

[@TroysHobbies]

Dennis Madigan That is actually good to hear. For awhile, they weren’t available.

[@dennismadigan2023]

Troys Hobbies i am going to my store later today. I will inquire to buy one and see what they say. I will let you know.

[@TroysHobbies]

Dennis Madigan copy that. I’m happy with the two I have.

[@caucasianafrican1435]

Great ideas

[@TroysHobbies]

Thank you

[@jasonbarnes2636]

Nicely done

[@TroysHobbies]

@@jasonbarnes2636 Thanks 👍

[@MrSTOUT73]

They sell the exact same trailers at Menard's in my area.

[@jeffreyblarsenjr4235]

How high are the sides? And what size boards were used? Just refurbished same trailer

[@real_Mike_Green]

Thank you. You helped me with my trailer by posting this. I appreciate it.

[@TroysHobbies]

You're welcome.

[@jimeronimo]

This is a solid job. Fine job. Any possibility you could add links to the description for the various products you mentioned? Undercoating, lights, light guards, hinges, etc

[@TroysHobbies]

In the description. Thanks.

[@zelloking]

He did a great job on the wood just the side latch needs to be farther down so when you latch it it’s be comes a tight shut.

[@andreabrockington1232]

how thick is the 4x8

[@TroysHobbies]

The plywood?. You can use whatever thickness you want but I would go with 1/2" or thicker. Cost more and heavier but more durable

[@jimyeats]

Why do folks choose to place the wood sides on the inside of the trailer vs the outside (on the outside of the wood stakes). I ask this because the harbor freight trailer is exactly 4x8 on the inside with no room to spare, so by putting the wood side boards on the inside you lose the ability to through a 4x8 piece of plywood/sheetrock exc in there. I am genuinely curious as I have a harbor freight trailer I just put together and will be doing the sides soon but I need to have the ability to put a 4x8 pieces of plywood in there.

[@TroysHobbies]

I've been asked that same question many times. I did it with my first trailer and I still do it with my fifth trailer. I've tested it before but I can turn reverse the sides and it would fix that. I would just have to reverse the latches and locks.

[@justin71069]

What are the advantages of having the open slatted sides as opposed to sides that eliminate the gaps? Is it mainly about aesthetics? Seems like you might get less drag with closed sides which is why I'm wondering.

[@TroysHobbies]

Personal choice. My previous one was solid plywood all around. It's much lighter now. I mainly use it for trash hauling. The critters had a harder time pocking their little paws through the solid plywood. It's easier for them to reach through now and pull stuff out. I made the sides shorter this time, purposely. I was carrying too much weight. The solid plywood weighed more than what I have now. Wind hitting the front of the solid plywood caused more drag.

[@danielpadgett2831]

Did you thompson water seal all that wood even pressure treated wood could use water seal just my thoughts. But one nice trailer

[@TroysHobbies]

I did.

[@benkanobe7500]

What is the size and type of wood the longboards of the fencing is made from? The finished product looks fantastic and professional. I am going to look at your other trailer build for how to black coat mine (ordered it only).

[@thezfunk]

Other comment said 1x6.

[@ddsskkk]

Amazing!! I just bought a HF trailer and I'm trying to do similar rails. Is the height for each 2x4 that go vertical 48" or longer? Are the horizontal boards 2x6 or 2x8? Thanks.

[@TroysHobbies]

Sorry for the late response. The vertical is is 2 feet high. The horizontal board is 1 inches thick, 5 1/2" wide. You can make it as high as you want. I wanted it shorter than my previous trailer. I have the gap between the horizontal boards at 1 3/4".

[@ddsskkk]

Thank you so much! I initially cut a 36” piece of the 2x4, but I saw it was high. I shortened it to 32”, but it was still high. And again cut to 28, but was ok. I think I’ll do 24” high. Great siding!!!

[@Deven543]

@@TroysHobbies are you sure your gap measurement between the horizontal boards isn't more than 1 3/4"?

[@ScojoDak]

Nicely done!

[@TroysHobbies]

Thank you.

[@troymalone2596]

not the hand lock...but the slide in lock on the corners,that you slide down from the top and secures the rear gate???

[@TroysHobbies]

Towards the front of the trailer?. It slides down and connects with the other corner. Plus I have removable pins at the bottom for extra security. The tailgate stays in place with the latch.

[@AOTechWorx]

I never came up with the idea to spray undercoating on it. They tend to rust. Thanks for the tip. And nice job.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks. This video is over 3 yrs old. If I could do it over again I would have used spray in a can bed liner. The undercoating is messy, it never really dries, stays oily. Next one will be berliner spray

[@JENG11B]

Nice build. Thank you for sharing. Looks like that is just the right size to haul just about anything. It is still compact enough to not be too crazy.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks!. I've owned several of this same model trailer. My other one is a kayak trailer.

[@JENG11B]

Troys Hobbies I see that. You’ve got some nice content on your channel.

[@apostoloskoritas9149]

Hi. I want to ask if you painted before you register or after. Thanks for sharing

[@TroysHobbies]

Before

[@Geminisabreu]

Nice job 👍🏽

[@TroysHobbies]

Carlos Abreu Thanks.

[@s4alexis]

Did you use 1x6x8 or 2x6x8 for the horizontal sides?

[@TroysHobbies]

1x6x8

[@WaveAction777]

Do you know what the difference is between the light duty one and the heavy duty ones? Is it just the axle and tires or is the frame made stronger & thicker? Nice job with the trailer, looks sharp.

[@wesleyedmonson8151]

Nice trailer! Can i ask what size of screws you used for the gate latch?

[@TroysHobbies]

It's been three years and I honestly can't remember. They might have been bolts I had laying around the shop.

[@Deltro61]

Very nice. I'm going to do the same. Great job.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks

[@checkyoursix5623]

For the flimsy fenders, I got a couple of "NO STEP" decals (like aircraft have), and put them on top.

[@TroysHobbies]

Good idea. Do you have a link?

[@rafaelgonzalezvega]

Are the side post 2x4’s? Nice trailer by the way.

[@TroysHobbies]

Thanks. Yes 2x4.

[@markbandy6184]

I just bought a new 2019 Harbor freight 4 x 8 1750 lbs fold up. It came with the upgraded lights you bought separately. Their version of course. Intensely bright !! Very impressed. You did a great build 👍. The light guards are a great idea. Going to get those. And just because it has a tilt feature, I bought and modified my licence plate holder to a fold up kind. You never know. The stake sides look awesome ! With your permission, I will use that design. I'm going to see if I can find autolock pins for the bottom of the stakes. Push it in, your done. I also added polyurethane washers 3/16 " down the center of the bed, before installing the floor. I didn't like the warp down the center. Everywhere a bolt head was located, I used a forstner bit and bored out the floor so it would sit level with the sides. Anyway, thanks for the video bro.

[@TroysHobbies]

Wow!. Looks like HF did some needed upgrades on the trailers,good. My two trailers were part of the tire recall. I did get four new tires. I think the light guards are a must. Everytime I look at my two trailers I always think I could have done it better....or went a less expensive route. Thanks for the kind words. Do you have a video out on your trailer?

[@brentbradley6711]

It doesn't tilt though

[@TroysHobbies]

I don't need tilt.

[@brentbradley6711]

@@TroysHobbies me do

[@troymalone2596]

what is the hardware that locks the rear gate called????

[@TroysHobbies]

Utility trailer side gate security latch