[Public-list] Trailering Alberg's

[Michael Connolly]

Hello,
 
In 2002 I designed and had built a custom trailer for the Alberg 30.  The man who built the trailer for me does this for a living and had previously built a 5 x 10 utility trailer for my business.
 
Glen and I spent some time discussing the construction and design.  I decided on tandem 6K Dexter Torflex axles with electric brakes.  The axles were ordered with the angle of the vertical links so that the finished trailer would be as low as possible. The tyres fitted matched/exceeded the load rating of the axles. I specified that a double torsion bar trunnion be installed along with an anti sway bar on a conventional class IV frame hitch.
 
The entire towed weight is 11,600 lbs and the tongue weight is 1,200 lbs.   This loaded trailer goes down the road very well.  I can adjust the brake controller from the tow vehicle so that I don't lock up the trailer brakes when the trailer is empty. 
 
Recently, I have been looking for a used tow vehicle to purchase.   I have checked and double checked with Ford and both their 250 and 350 HD pickups with the tow package installed are rated to pull up to 12,000 lbs.  
 
Since both the Dexter axles and the Ford truck have a measure of safety margin built in and I am below the maximum rated loading, I feel comfortable that both will do the job without incident. 
 
When towing, I ALWAYS error on the side of caution.  I drive defensively as though I am going to crash and burn at any moment.  I never allow myself to become complacent..............not ever with 6 tonnes behind me.
 
This rig was not cheap, but I expected to be able to use it for twenty years or so.  Being able to move my Alberg 30 around 'at will' and store it safely and well supported was the reason for designing the trailer.
 
I have proposed to George that I do a write up and send pictures of the fabrication/finished trailer to be posted on the Alberg 30 web site.  George has agreed to post for the Alberg Family to view.  In the next month I will get the photos and article to George, I promise.
 
What I designed may not be the end all of Alberg 30 trailers.  It is overbuilt, incorporating all safety features that I could think of at the time and has served me well.  It was my solution for my towing needs.
 
Michael


 1107869297.0