Trailer for multiple UTVs/ATVs

[TreyRo]

Anybody have their trailer setup for multiple vehicles? I've been using a 16+2 dove tail car hauler for the last 10 years for pretty much everything but got a wild hair and picked up a new to me 20' utility trailer yesterday with a rear ramp. Primary use will be to haul a ranger crew, 1 fullsize ATV, and 2 kids size ATVs for hunting and camping trips. Car hauler is going to a new home since I don't really have to need to tow any road worthy vehicles for the foreseeable future.

It's a pipe top with the rear gate only at this point but I would like to add a side gate. I can spin my wife's sportsman but i would be really nice to just load it from the side.

-Any one added a side entry gate after the fact? Feel like it lost any strength? Trailer flex a lot more unloaded?


Also curious if anyone uses this type of tie down system:

https://www.amazon.com/Erickson-09160-Wheel-Chock-Tie-Down/dp/B015CJICIK/ref=asc_df_B015CJICIK/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309806291903&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14599359448029093995&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9026944&hvtargid=pla-434616003339&psc=1

I like the idea that I can have them set where I want for the Fullsize ATV and the Ranger. I've used that style before but not on a consistent basis so just looking for feedback.

[Quackerbox]

pricy but mighty tite

https://www.theatvsuperstore.com/Trailer-ATV-Tie-Down-System-s/106.htm

[TreyRo]

Pretty cool.

[Mossback]

I added a side gate to the front of my 16' trailer, zero issues, fits my crew ranger and a big 4 wheeler now without spinning it manually with a floor jack. had it like that for going on 10 years. Think I may get some of those chalks for the ranger though, I broke multiple straps last yr coming off the mountain in new mexico.

[TreyRo]

I added a side gate to the front of my 16' trailer, zero issues, fits my crew ranger and a big 4 wheeler now without spinning it manually with a floor jack. had it like that for going on 10 years. Think I may get some of those chalks for the ranger though, I broke multiple straps last yr coming off the mountain in new mexico.

I figured i would lose some rigidity but not enough to make a difference since the C-Chanel frame runs under the section in question.

[Mossback]

I figured i would lose some rigidity but not enough to make a difference since the C-Chanel frame runs under the section in question.

I ran mine so the front where the gate is wider than the rest of the trailer. Little extra room up there and added some rigidity. I always stuff my water jugs or gas cans there, they fit perfect and no need to strap them in.

[TreyRo]

I ran mine so the front where the gate is wider than the rest of the trailer. Little extra room up there and added some rigidity. I always stuff my water jugs or gas cans there, they fit perfect and no need to strap them in.

Gotcha...

I'm sure it can be done the way I have it in my head I'm just trying to keep from cutting a year old trailer into pieces.

[KDinTX]

We have a 18ft that we cut the side pipe and built it to fold down and load 4 wheelers with ramps then fold back up. Never would know its there if it wasnt for the locks that hold it closed. Been like that since 96-97 or so, ive hauled trucks, cars, 4 wheelers, utvs on it. Didn't affect the feel/flex of the trailer any that could be noticed.

[Dale Moser]

I figured i would lose some rigidity but not enough to make a difference since the C-Chanel frame runs under the section in question.

You will lose enough that I would address it. Box that C-chanel from front to the 1st axle on both sides. Only need a piece of 3/16" plate, shouldn't even have to cut it.

[TreyRo]

You will lose enough that I would address it. Box that C-chanel from front to the 1st axle on both sides. Only need a piece of 3/16" plate, shouldn't even have to cut it.

Good idea... I think I've got some in the warehouse.

[DaveC]

I have a side gate and a set of those tie downs you posted.

The side gate has been covered.

The tie down thing- works great to hold the machine tight when towing down bumpy roads. The issue is squaring up just so between the brackets so that the straps don't slip off the crown of the tire.
Sometimes it will take me a few on and off the trailer to get the tires just so.
If you had more squared off tires it might not be so critical. My Bighorns are round enough that I had to hit my marks just right or the straps will favor one side of the top of the tire then slip off sideways after hitting some big road bumps or dips.
I've been double strapping encase this happens- which negates the benefit of using these.

oh, and once mounted on the trailer your deck now has four things to get in the way.
I have a deer stand loaded up far a lease trip on my trailer right now and sure enough one of the legs is sitting on top of one of these mounts. I shoved it off, but gotta hope it doesn't find its way back on or it might end up bending where the straps latch into.


So to make a long story short- yes they work, no I wouldn't buy them again.

[Dale Moser]

Good idea... I think I've got some in the warehouse.

All due respect to those who've had good luck without doing it...the trailer is designed for that rail to add structural rigidity. May work fine without it, but I tend to overload things, and I don't like the idea of a frame sagging.

Is this a tongue pull or gooseneck?

[TreyRo]

All due respect to those who've had good luck without doing it...the trailer is designed for that rail to add structural rigidity. May work fine without it, but I tend to overload things, and I don't like the idea of a frame sagging.

Is this a tongue pull or gooseneck?

Bumper pull.

I also tend to shove 10lbs ina 5lb sack