7 Must-Have Upgrades For Your Trailer

Regardless of whether you use a trailer for work, on the farm or a construction site, or simply around the home, it is essential that it is kitted out in such a way that it meets all your needs. To achieve this, there are a range of upgrades that you can add to your trailer to ensure that it has all the features you require so that you can get the job done properly every time.

Below we discuss 7 popular trailer upgrades that you can add to your single axle or tandem trailer so that it meets your requirements and can do everything that you need it to do.

Trailer cages

When you add a cage to a trailer, you get added flexibility as to the sort and size of loads you can carry. This is because the load can be safely stacked higher than is possible in a standard box trailer, or further out of the rear than is the case with an enclosed trailer.

Cage trailers are also easier to manoeuvre than enclosed trailers, as you have greater visibility, and they will also be lighter. This also makes them easier to park.

Electric brakes

If you regularly carry heavy loads, electric brakes are an invaluable upgrade, especially on tandem trailers, car trailers and tipper trailers. Operated using a controller in the towing vehicle that enables the trailer brakes to be manually applied by the driver, they are extremely reliable, and the delay and force can be adjusted depending on the trailer and towing vehicle.

Trailers with a GTM exceeding 2 tonnes are required to also have a breakaway system fitted. This will automatically apply the brakes should the trailer become separated from the towing vehicle, protecting both you and other road users.

Suspension

There are a range of options open to you when it comes to trailer suspension. Most smaller, single axle and tandem trailers (up to 1,990 kg ATM) will be fitted with slipper spring suspension. However, if you need to carry heavier loads to tow a heavier trailer, there are a couple of upgrades you should consider.

Eye to eye trailer suspension (also known as shackle suspension or double eye suspension) features springs with a leaf configuration at each end, with a bush interred into a coiled eye. The front spring is held in place by a hanger, while the rear coil swings on shackle bolts. Eye to eye suspension is very durable and low maintenance, although components can be easily replaced should the need arise.

Rocker roller trailer suspension is a full load sharing system that is a variation on a standard rocker assembly and is ideal for towing trailers with an ATM up to 4,500 kg.

Two of the bolted connections are replaced with roller bearings so that they are less rigid and better able to absorb impact. This produces a smoother ride, even on difficult terrain, while also being very tough and durable.

ATM upgrades

Aggregate Trailer Mass (more commonly referred to as ATM) is the maximum weight of a fully-loaded trailer when it’s not hitched to a vehicle. Most single axle and tandem trailers have a 1,350 kg or 1,900 kg ATM as standard, but this won’t always be sufficient, and so an upgrade is required.

It is possible to upgrade the ATM of a tandem or tri-axle trailer to 2,800 kg, 3,200 kg, 3,500 kg or 4,500 kg. This will involve the chassis, rims and tyres being upgraded, along with the suspension and braking capacity.

Tyres and rims

If you regularly tow on rough roads or difficult terrain, it makes sense to upgrade to all terrain tyres and rims.

This gives you better traction in all sorts of conditions thanks to an interlocking tread design and softer rubber compound. All terrain tyres also have reinforced sidewalls, which means you can tow heavier loads safely. You can also upgrade to 15” or 16” rims with either a 5 or 6 stud configuration.

Spare wheel

It is always good sense to upgrade your trailer from the standard spec so that it features a spare wheel. These can be fitted in a variety of ways depending on your needs, e.g., an upright mounting on the front drawbar, a side mounting, or with a holder bolted on to the drawbar.

Drop axles

When drop axles are fitted, the trailer sits lower to the ground, which makes loading and unloading easier. This is because the axle is dropped lower from the centre wheel spindles and hub. Drop axles are especially useful on enclosed trailers and car trailers, or when you need to be able to access a low clearance garage or car park.

Depending on the trailer type, 2”, 3” and 4” drop axle upgrades are available.

Need help with a trailer upgrade? Call Basic Trailers

At Basic Trailers, you can choose from an extensive range of trailer upgrades. As well as the seven most popular upgrades that we have featured here, other upgrades include skid rails, tie points, drop down legs for plane trailers, heavy duty winches for car trailers, double swing tailgates for tipper trailers, and many more.

Our highly experienced sales team is here to answer any questions you might have, and to help you choose the right upgrade for your trailer.

To find out more about upgrading your Adelaide trailer, call Basic Trailers on 1300 770 770, get in touch via email, or drop by our trailer workshop at Pooraka at any time.