rebuilding trailer

[Ryda85]

ok guys, i just picked up an old popup to use as a utility / atv trailer. the decking was shot but the frame was ok so i grabbed it for 200 bucks. the frame is 7x11 and the old plywood floor was about 7 x 9.5. there is a small portion on the rear that was not decked.

 

anyway, i have to redeck the floor. the trailer isnt thw strongest thing in the world, it seems to have a little flex to it. i take it to be that the floor is rotted and is not giving much support. i have already thrown a piece of plywood on top and hauled my shee and a buds yfz with no problem so i know it will hold.

 

my main question is what should i use for decking? a few sheets of new plywood? or would 2x10s running long ways be stronger? maybe use a 3/4" plywood base and 1 1/2 inch deck boards? never buit a trailer.

 

thanks

[SAVAGE420]

http://bansheehq.com/forums/index.php?showforum=46

[Hilarious]

my main question is what should i use for decking? a few sheets of new plywood? or would 2x10s running long ways be stronger? maybe use a 3/4" plywood base and 1 1/2 inch deck boards? never buit a trailer.

 

thanks

 

if possible, get some treated 2x6's.

kind of pricey but that's what i recently replaced the floor on my utility trailer with.

[AKheathen]

well, it all tepends on how the trailer is framed. i did my little trailer with 2x12's welded in and it's strong as hell, but it needs the support every 4-6' to last. 3/4 plywood would work good, too. if supported.

[Duneman101]

put some 1 inch square tubing every 4 feet and use a couple sheets of diamond plate... that shit will last forever. it's be costly now, but strong and easy to maintain... if you don't have the dough for it right now, i would go with some 2x6 or 2x10 planks run length wise. if you don't get treated planks make sure to hit it with some thomspsons water sealer or some thing or it won't last.

[Larry's Shee]

Lot of variables here. How long do you want to use it? I think 2 sheets of ply would be least expesive. If you use regular ply, paint it first both sides, or use wolmanized ply. Do not use particle board or OSB (flake board/oriented strand board). Did trailer with regular ply and it lasted pretty good. Use 3/4" attach with self drill/tap screws. Be sure to re-grease wheel bearings also.

[AKheathen]

...now, here's the dilemma- diamond plate and treated/coated wood is nice and lasts. however, it's horrible for automotive due to the fact, that it gets slick as shit with any fluids. @ my shop, i only ever ran raw wood and expanded steel. still do. oil will soak in/through and let tires and shit keep sticking, and expanded steel will let it right through. i don't know about you, but i don't like washing the deck all the time....especially in the winter. just some food for thought....