Hobbies And Interests
Enclosed Trailer Types
Snowmobile trailers allow owners to move a snowmobile safely to any location. Enclosed trailers also offer snowmobile protection, especially from damaging debris that may strike the snowmobile during transport. Currently, two types of enclosed trailers are offered by the trailer industry. One type is an enclosed trailer, built directly from the manufacturer. These trailers essentially split in half for access to the snowmobile inside. Alternatively, originally manufactured open-faced trailers can have an enclosure added onto the trailer's body, effectively covering the snowmobile.
Enclosure Material
The best enclosure material is aluminum. Aluminum offers a strong and durable material over time, but does not add a significant amount of weight to the trailer's frame. As a result, the hauling vehicle saves fuel and lessens its overall engine wear, compared to other materials. Steel is another option, although it adds significant weight and tends to rust. Nylon fabric is offered as an inexpensive option. However, it does not offer crucial protection for the snowmobile. Fiberglass is a fashionable choice, as well as extremely strong. But fiberglass is extremely expensive and difficult to reshape if damage occurs to the enclosure.
Trailer Deck
Verify that the chosen enclosed snowmobile trailer uses marine-grade plywood for the trailer decking. Snowmobiles are heavy, especially if transporting more than one vehicle. The trailer's decking must withstand extreme temperature changes, as well as constant heavy weight. Many manufacturers paint the decking for an aesthetically-pleasing appearance, making it difficult to visually verify the wood type. Contact the manufacturer if there is any confusion over the wood type. Improper wood choices can rot from moisture exposure.
Considerations
The hinges and latches on the enclosure opening should be the highest quality. Inexpensive hinge and latch assemblies easily freeze and lock up in cold temperatures, making it difficult to open the trailer's enclosure. In addition, a rubber torsion bar should be the main trailer suspension. Leaf springs tend to rust and weaken in the extreme cold and wet snow. One final consideration is a spare tire. The enclosed trailer should have ample room for at least one spare tire in case one blows.