Is Bigger Always Better?

Cash Davidson · **Posted:** Sat Dec 14, 2013 10:15 am

After 2 years of free use of an open trailer, the owner has thoughtlessly sold it. He offered it to me, but I've decided I need an enclosed trailer. One of the features I've convinced myself as crucial is an escape door on the driver's side. I've used trailers with and without and with is better - feel free to comment. It seems 24' is the most common size, but behind my 22' BWB (big white bus) that's a LONG rig. Seems to me 24' is overkill if the car is 16' and you want a 30" bench in front. I have plenty of room in the Excursion for coolers, chairs, sleeping, etc.

So I have a lead on a very good condition 20' Haulmark (a quality manufacturer) with a driverside escape door at what seems like a good deal. Will it do just fine? Will I quickly regret and become publicly embarrassed by my lack of size? :oops:

Wadaya think? School me - what am I overlooking?

Thanks,
Cash

RobLupella · **Posted:** Sat Dec 14, 2013 12:03 pm

I don't tow stuff other than tires so take what I say with a grain of salt. You have a vehicle that can tow a fairly large trailer so that isn't really an issue. I kinda look at it like closet/garage space - no matter how much you have you want more. That said will you always have that car or will you ever tow a car that won't fit in the trailer inducing

.

I knew I should have bought the 25 footer. :oops:

Make sure you have accounted in your measurements for stuff you will eventually decide you "need" in the trailer like fuel jugs, tire racks, grill, fridge, ATV etc

There isn't a lot of difference in the additional length in terms of cost so my theory would be to get the smallest trailer that will suit your long-term requirements.

Rob (jealous)

Jason Tower · **Joined:** Wed Jun 11, 2008 3:31 pm **Posts:** 1173

there's a reason so few 20' trailers exist, and so many 24'. for the small cost difference it's not worth it, get a 24'. you'll thank me later.

George Bright · **Posted:** Sat Dec 14, 2013 12:13 pm

Just a thought but when will the team decide they need a golf cart like the grumpy old men team. I thought of this because I came to CMP late last time and ended up with a campsite against the fence. Getting another beer was a bit of a walk.

RodneyWright · **Posted:** Sat Dec 14, 2013 12:37 pm

I'd go w/ bigger.... My thoughts are this.... You're at the track and it's pouring rain. Car is still loaded and you have 3-4 people with you. Have enough space in the trailer to set up chairs w/ the car inside.

Cash Davidson · **Posted:** Sat Dec 14, 2013 1:31 pm

I get what Rob and Jason are saying - I find every trip to the track, I bring more stuff than the previous time. On the other hand, if you have space (closet, garage, trailer) you will fill it up - it seems unavoidable. I guess I need to make a realistic list of stuff I'd bring. Currently, I fit everything inside the truck, inside the car or in a small tongue box on the open trailer. I see people bring generators and air compressors, but is that really necessary? Most paddocks and campgrounds have power and unless your using air tools a tankless compressor seems adequate.

RodneyWright wrote:

I'd go w/ bigger.... My thoughts are this.... You're at the track and it's pouring rain. Car is still loaded and you have 3-4 people with you. Have enough space in the trailer to set up chairs w/ the car inside.

Good point. I plan to have an awning - for shade and protection from all but the worst storms. I also have a 10x10 easy-up but I never bring it.

Cash

Jason Tower · **Joined:** Wed Jun 11, 2008 3:31 pm **Posts:** 1173

i've towed our 24' enclosed with my excursion and it's perfectly happy (just slow). the extra 4' in length is insignificant and i'd be surpirsed if you could even tell the difference in any real world situation. you'll never regret a slightly larger than necessary trailer, but you'll definitely regret a too small one at some point, and 20" is pretty small for an enclosed.

RobLupella · **Posted:** Sat Dec 14, 2013 3:33 pm

You will want a generator if something breaks and you need lights, air tools etc. Plus as Rodney says if we all gather at your pad in the rain there has to be enough room for a beer cooler :toast: