Road Safety kit

• Three warning triangles
• One 2.75 lb. 10 B. C. metal head. Fire Extinguisher with bracket mounted to inside of lid.
• Three 20-minute fuses.
• One hold down strap with hardware.
• Heavy-duty steel carrying case.

 Here is a simple highway safety kit to carry at all times in your horse trailer.  The components are readily available in most big box, automotive, and RV stores.

Horse Trailer Monitoring Systems

•Includes everything to install the system with one camera
•Compact color CCD camera with Sony sensor and integrated transmitter
•Color picture in normal light
•Clear black & white picture even in total darkness
•Camera has 18 automatic infrared LEDs for night vision
•Wide angle lens covers trailer interiors completely
•Single camera will cover most trailers up to 4 horses
•Camera is weatherproof and has an anodized aluminum housing for long life
•7" LCD monitor/receiver can easily be moved to any towing vehicle
•Monitor is easily removed for security or concealment
•Permanently wire or use the included cigarette lighter adapter
•WC-127 monitor includes a full function remote control
•You can play DVDs or tapes from a player through the monitor
•It has a built-in speaker
•You can use up to 4 cameras with this system
•Of course, there is a full instruction manual
•The trailer is independent of the truck and you can use the wireless monitor for viewing when using a different tow vehicle. Just move the monitor and plug it into the cigarette lighter
http://www.ranchcams.net/index.html

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I really like the idea of being able to see the horses while I am driving.  The wireless systems are the easiest to set up and can be moved from trailer to trailer with the least amount of effort.  The system above is just one of many available on the internet - just type in 'horse wireless monitoring system' into google and you will find them.  Prices are in the $200 - $600 range for the wireless systems.  The wired systems start at around $150.

Here are a couple more:
http://www.horsetrailermonitor.com/  - this website has an annoying video that automatically plays

http://www.batterybarn.com/trailereyes.htm - this system is $259 and the camera runs on a 9V battery.  This one appears to be the easiest to install and the most versatile - I especially like the fact that you can use it to hook up the trailer and then move it into the horse trailer for the ride.

http://www.huntercreekvideo.com/trailer_cam.htm - click on the funny mare story :-)


These systems can also be used in other areas such as the barn, pool, and play areas.

I chose to feature the ranchcam company because of the truck/trailer combination they are using in their ad.  If I was going to spend that much money, I would make sure they match!!!

Hide a Key for anyone

Here is a different method of hiding your key while you are away from your vehicle.  This one can be mounted to your trailer or to your vehicle.  I would mount this one out of sight (in the wheel well or under a fender), but still easily accessable.  I have seen these mounted right next to the door on RV's.  While that's handy, it would be too tempting to a thief who has some knowledge about how to open these - hide it!!  This looks like it would be good for hiding your house key too - mounted in an inconspicuous place.


From the website:

Here is the convenient, secure way to avoid the frustration of being locked out of your car or truck. This durable key storage box is constructed using thick rustproof metal walls with an interlocking faceplate for a high degree of security. A heavy duty mechanical keypad -- which needs no batteries -- opens easily using a numeric combination you choose and set yourself. The combination may be changed whenever you wish. The raised keypad design permits opening the unit even in near dark conditions, unlike dial combination types. Surface mount style installs to bumper, wheel well, trailer frame or other metal part with the included hardware. Flexible weatherproof cover protects key holder from mud and other elements. Overall size 4-1/4"l, 2-1/2"w, 1-3/4"d. Titanium body with black cover $33.95
http://www.selectlocks.com/site/1266378/product/90-13245

Hitch Safe

Here is a neat idea!  A great place to put your key or $$ while you are out riding.

From the website:

Converts hitch receiver into a VAULT! Two hitch pins secure vault portion from INSIDE the receiver. The only way vault can be removed is when the 10,000 combination drawer is removed. The drawer holds spare keys and even drivers license and credit cards! Great for outdoor sports when carrying these items are a hassle or can become lost. Dust cover protects and conceals.

NEVER be locked out again!  $69.95

http://www.padlocks4less.com/HitchSafe.html

Balls

My New Truck

I just got a new (to me) truck - yay me!!!!  It is in great condition and is set up for either a GN or bumper pull trailer.  Sweet!  The guy kept the bumper hitch ball mount to use on his new truck, so I went about buying a new one.

Oh my.

I had no idea that there was such a variety of balls out there.  Black ones, white ones, shiny chrome ones, and even ones specially colored to match your truck.  The last time I borrowed a ball it was rusty from being out in the weather with no protection!  There are a variety of sizes too.

While the color selection was an easy one, the part that got me somewhat perplexed was the selection of sizes combined with the drop and rise!  I started to grab the one that had THREE different ball sizes, but realized that model had no drop or rise.  What's a girl to do?

So I went home and started to do some research.  It is worse than I could have ever imagined.  If your receiver is too big, you can buy a reducer sleeve; if your ball is too small you can buy a reducer bushing; and if the person driving the vehicle is too aggressive you can get a bumper guard to protect you from impact; if your shank is too short you can buy an extension or if it is too small you can buy an adaptor; your balls can be reversible, adjustable or solid and can be either screwed on or welded on.
You can get ball washers and heat treated balls; ball storage racks and ball covers.  You can even get a ball storage bag for when you are not using them and want to protect them even more.

Now if I were only going to pull one specific trailer on this truck and nothing else, it would be a relatively simple task.  I would measure the required ball size, see where the trailer is level to get the correct drop/rise and be done.

However, I will be pulling multiple trailers.  With different loads.  The drop and rise are mostly critical on dual/triple axle trailers because you want to make sure that the weight is evenly distributed on all the axles.  A single axle trailer does not have that issue; however, if you have any livestock in it you want it to be as close to level as possible.  Also, if you are too high in the front, you can easily drag the back of the trailer on the road especially if you are pulling out of a parking lot and the ground is really uneven.   Same thing if the front is too low - the front of the trailer can easily ram into the ground if the surface is sharply angled.  Think sharply sloped railroad tracks and going down under small bridges.

Looking at the prices of some of these I can understand why the receiver/ball locks are popular.  Some of the ones I have found (so far) easily cost over $250.  It's no wonder they get stolen so frequently!

I will do some more research and post about the different options and how to select the proper one for your trailering needs.  If there is anything in particular you would like me to research regarding this topic let me know.  :-)

Save these weight definitions

Understanding RV/trailer Weights

For the safety of your family and others around you, it is crucial to understand and stay within the weight ratings of your RV/trailer and tow vehicle.

Vehicle and trailer weight numbers fall into two categories:

1. Actual weights: Measured weight of the vehicle or its components. Factory quoted weights may be averages or estimates of actual weight.  
2. Ratings: Weight ratings are limits placed on the vehicle or its components, which should never be exceeded.

The most common confusion about weights occurs when the two above categories are mixed.

--------------------

GVW: Gross Vehicle Weight

GVW Includes 

1. Curb Weight
2. Cargo Weight  
3. Persons weight

 Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the actual weight of the fully loaded vehicle or trailer, including all cargo, fluids, passengers, and optional equipment, as measured by a scale. 

If you are in a motor home and not towing anything, the GVW is the total weight of the RV/trailer and everything in it. If your RV/trailer is composed of more than one unit (towing a trailer or a vehicle), then the GVW is only part of the total. 
The GVW is important because without this number you can not determine if you are within the limits set forth by the manufacturer, laws, and regulations. This number can be approximated based on information provided by the manufacturer or dealer, but the only way to be sure is to drive the RV/trailer on a scale and measure it.

-----------------------------

 GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum number that the GVW or GTW should never exceed. GVWR is applied to trailers as well as vehicles, but you may see this rating referred to as the Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight.

--------------------------

GTW: Gross Trailer Weight

GTW Includes  

1. All GAW's  
2. Tongue Weight or King Ping Weight  
3. Weight on all deployed jacks

Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is the same as Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) when referring to a trailer. While GVW can be applied to tow vehicles and trailers, GTW makes it clear that we are speaking of a trailer.

 When connected, a portion of the trailer's weight is transferred to the tow vehicle through the hitch. In this case the GTW includes all axle GAW's and the Tongue Weight or King Pin Weight.

When not connected to the tow vehicle, the trailer's weight rests on its own tires and on all deployed support and stabilizing jacks. If you are weighing a trailer without the tow vehicle, be sure to place the entire unit on the scale, including all jacks.

----------------------

GCW: Gross Combination Weight

GCW Includes  

1. GVW of tow vehicle
2.  GVW of towed vehicle

 Gross Combination Weight (GCW) is the actual weight of the fully loaded tow vehicle plus the towed vehicle (trailer, car, boat, etc.), including all cargo, fluids, passengers, and optional equipment.

 If your RV is composed of more than one unit (towing a trailer or a vehicle), then the GCW is the total weight of all connected vehicles and everything in them.

 Again, the only way to accurately determine the GCW is to drive the entire assembly on a scale. You may also determine the GCW by adding up the individual GVW's of all components.

 If you weigh the components separately, make sure that they are configured and loaded exactly as you will be when traveling.

-----------------------------------

GCWR: Gross Combination Weight Rating

Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the maximum number that the tow vehicle GVW plus towed vehicle GVW (or GTW) should never exceed.

---------------------------------

GAW: Gross Axle Weight
Gross Axle Weight (GAW) is the actual weight placed on a single axle. Assuming a well-balanced vehicle, the GAW is then evenly distributed to all tires on that axle.

In addition to the axle weight rating, the GAW must be within the tire weight ratings as well. To determine the amount of weight placed on each tire, divide the GAW by the number of tires on the axle.

 You may see the more specific RGAW, when referring to the rear axle, or FGAW, when referring to the front axle.

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GAWR: Gross Axle Weight Rating

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is the maximum number that the GAW of a single axle should never exceed. You may see the more specific RGAWR, when referring to the rear axle, or FGAWR, when referring to the front axle.

-----------------------------

Tongue Weight or King Pin Weight 
Tongue Weight (also called Tongue Load) is the actual weight pressing down on the hitch ball by the trailer. The recommended amount of Tongue Weight is 10-15% of the GTW.

 King Pin Weight (also called Pin Weight) is the actual weight pressing down on the fifth wheel hitch by the trailer. The recommended amount of King Pin Weight is 15-25% of the GTW.

These weights are added to the tow vehicle's GVW.

--------------------------------

Curb Weight

Curb Weight Includes:

1. Vehicle weight with standard equipment only  
2. Full fuel tank weight  
3. Full fresh water tank(s) weight  
4. Full propane container weight  
5. Equipment fluids weight  

Curb Weight is the actual weight of a vehicle or trailer including all standard equipment, full fuel tanks, full fresh water tanks, full propane bottles, and all other equipment fluids, but before taking on any persons or personal cargo.  
We have seen the following variations to this definition:

• Includes driver
• Includes optional equipment

 Pay close attention to how the manufacturer defines Curb Weight because this is often used to calculate other weights, such as the cargo carrying capacity or Payload.

--------------------------------

Dry Weight
Dry Weight is the actual weight of a vehicle or trailer containing standard equipment without fuel, fluids, cargo, passengers, or optional equipment.

We have seen the following variations to this definition:  

• Includes commonly ordered optional equipment
• Includes fluids of generator and other onboard equipment (oil, coolant, fuel)
• May or may not include RV batteries 

 Pay close attention to how the manufacturer defines Dry Weight because this is often used to calculate other weights, such as the cargo carrying capacity or Payload.

-------------------------------

UVW: Unloaded Vehicle Weight

UVW Includes  

1. Vehicle weight as manufactured at the factory  
2. Full fuel tank weight  
3. Equipment fluids weight

 Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) is the weight of a vehicle as manufactured at the factory. It includes full engine and generator fuel tanks and fluids, if applicable. It does not include cargo, water, propane, or dealer-installed accessories. Be aware that some manufacturers weigh each unit to determine UVW, while others provide only the average or estimated weight for each model.

  We have seen the following variations to this definition: 

•  Includes actual factory installed options
• Includes commonly ordered factory installed options

 Pay close attention to how the manufacturer defines UVW because this is often used to calculate other weights, such as the cargo carrying capacity or Payload.

----------------------------------

Cargo Weight
Cargo Weight Includes

1. Personal cargo weight  
2. Optional equipment weight  
3. Tongue Weight or King Ping Weight

Cargo Weight is the actual weight of all items added to the Curb Weight of the vehicle or trailer. This includes personal cargo, optional equipment, and Tongue or King Pin Weight.

This number is important because it will determine how many things you can safely pack into your RV/trailer. Within this number you need to fit the weight of your clothes, shoes, linens, books, dishes, beer, cleaning supplies, computer equipment, hiking gear, bicycles, water sport implements, food, hay, grain, saddles, tools, tack, horses —basically everything you want to take with you.

---------------------------------

Payload
Payload Includes  

1. Cargo Weight  
2. Persons weight

Even though it does no include an R, Payload is a weight rating. It is the maximum weight that persons plus cargo should never exceed.

Payload is derived by subtracting Curb Weight from GVWR. In other words, the difference between a vehicle with standard equipment and the maximum allowed weight.

------------------------------------

I found these definitions here:
http://changingears.com/rv-sec-tow-vehicles-understand.shtml

Save Your Tires

From the website:
4 Pack. This will flash a red light when an air pressure loss occurs. When screwed onto the tire air valve of any properly inflated tire, it will record this pressure permanently. When pressure loss exceeds 8 psi, the LED light flashes. If flashing, add air to the tire, reinstall, and the flashing will stop. Battery life is 2 yrs. 3 weeks with the light on. Pressure range of over 50 PSI. $31.75

http://horse-trailers-for-sale.com/cart/shop/item.asp?itemid=244

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Cheap insurance on your horse trailer.  Especially good for those trailers that are not used regularly.

Save Your Horse - First Aid Kit to Keep in Trailer

Something we need to have and hope to never use.  A well-stocked first aid kit can mean all the difference.  Make sure you keep your supplies well-stocked and up to date.  Personally, I keep my first aid stuff in a plastic tool box.  I do have plans to get a wall mounted box for my trailer to keep it up and out of the way.

Here is a generic list of supplies to have with you when trailering from EquiSpirit trailers -

From the website:
The following items assembled into an emergency kit will help you handle most situations. These items are not only for use on the trailer, but are good to have around the barn. Discuss this list with your own veterinarian, he may have other suggestions that are appropriate for you and your situation.

•ROLL COTTON - 2 rolls
•ROLL GAUZE - 4 rolls ( 4" or 6")
•GAUZE SQUARES
•CLEAN STANDING BANDAGES - 2 quilt or fleece with outer wraps
•ADHESIVE TAPE
•24" SECTION OF 6" PVC PIPE which has been split in half lengthwise - for splinting; check that diameter of pipe fits your horse.
•COHESIVE FLEXIBLE BANDAGE - 2 - 4" (Vetrap or Co-flex)
•STICKY ROLL BANDAGE - Elastikon
•THERMOMETER
•STETHOSCOPE
•MOSQUITO FORCEPS
•SCISSORS
•TWITCH
•ANTISEPTIC SOAP - Betadine etc.
•HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
•ANTIBACTERIAL OINTMENT - Nitrofurozone Dressing or Triple Antibiotic
•ANTIBACTERIAL SPRAY POWDER - Furox Spray
•OPTHALMIC OINTMENT AND SALINE EYE WASH - Without cortizone or steriods
•BUTAZOLIDIN PASTE (bute)
•BANAMINE GRANULES OR PASTE
•BUCKET
•WATER - 10 gallons or more

All medications should be given on the advice of your own veterinarian or the veterinarian treating the condition. IMPROPER USE OF TRANQUILIZERS AND OTHER MEDICATION CAN RESULT IN THE LOSS OF YOUR HORSE.
Know normal vital signs and how to take them. More detailed information about first aid treatment, preventing stress and injury, and pre-trip preparation can be found in Hawkins Guide: Equine Emergencies on the Road by James Hamilton, DVM, available through EquiSpirit Trailer Company call 910-692-1771 or toll free 877-575-1771.
http://www.equispirit.com/info/articles/emregencykit.htm

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Here is a kit already made up - kinda pricey, but handy.  Includes horse and human supplies. From EquiMedic USA

http://store01.prostores.com/servlet/equimedic/Detail?no=158

From the website:
Trailering kit - Large
Featuring 59 different products and 343 items
Kit Measurements: 12.5" high, 17.5" wide, 12" deep / 16.2 pounds
Each end compartment is 3" wide. The main compartment is 12.5" wide, 12" deep, and 12.5" tall
Includes:

• Cotton Tipped Swabs
• Medical Towels
• Wood Applicators
• Non-Sterile Gauze
• Sterile Gauze
• Non-Adherent Gauze
• Medium Dressings
• Large Dressing
• 3M Vetrap
• Adhesive Tape
• ½ Pound Cotton Roll
• Alcohol Wipes
• Sanitizing Towelettes
• Povidone Iodine Swabsticks
• Eye Wash
• Betadine Surgical Scrubs
• 90 ml Wound Wash
• Iodine Wipes
• Pint Hydrogen Peroxide
• Pint Alcohol
• 4 ounce Betadine
• Flashlight
• Exam Gloves
• Nitrile Gloves
• Hoof Picks
• Tourniquets
• Pocket Scalpels
• Bandage Scissors
• Bandage Pins
• 18 gauge 1" Needles
• 12cc Syringes
• 20cc Syringes
• 35cc Syringes
• Thumb Forcep
• Wrap Cutters
• Digital Thermometers
• UltraShield Towelettes
• Antibiotic Ointment Packets
• Hydrocortisone Packets
• Bio-Freeze Pain Relief Packets
• Blistex Lip Ointment Packets
• Sting Relief Wipes
• Insect Repel Gel Packets
• Sunscreen Towelettes
• WaterJel Burn Relief Packets
• 3/4 Inch Bandages
• 1 Inch Bandages
• WaterJel Topical Cool Packets
• Butterfly Bandages
• Triangular Bandage
• Emergency Blanket
• Electrolyte Gold Packets
• Small Instant Cold Packs
• Large Liniment
• Medium Antiseptic Ointment
• Large Instant Cold Packs
• 6 ounce Bloodstop
• Wound Kote

Here is the kit for you serious haulers with the big rigs. Put this Large Trailering Kit in the tack room of your big gooseneck or semi trailer and leave it there, knowing that you’ve got all that you should need to tend to the emergency health problems of your traveling horses and your riders and handlers. Offering 23 more products and 188 more items than our Small Trailering Kit (KIT003), this kit is made for you folks who spend serious miles going down the road with from four to ten horses. We have added significantly more human items to this kit for your people who spend as much time away from home as do your horses.
The Large Trailering Kit is now available in it’s very own specially designed bag. This design is by far our best tailored and most efficiently designed and organized bag. This kit will amaze you with it’s organizational capabilities. It is purely awesome, and we are very proud of it*.
The new Large Trailering Kit Bag offers a large main center compartment, accessible through a large flap opening. On the inside, that flap delivers to you six clear plastic zippered pockets for your smaller items. The large compartment has a movable center divider and features a number of various sized elastic loops to hold your products upright and in place.
Two separately zippered compartments flank the center section and an outside pocket on the back side completes this versatile bag design. This kit comes to you in our traditional heavy poly lined material that is durable and washable and will stay looking new as long as you are willing to launder it as needed.
*Click on this link to the description of this bag as sold empty for a more complete description (the empty bag is $85)
Retail Value: $325.00
PRICE: $295.00

They have a whole range of complete first aid kits ranging from $70 to $820!!

Save your Trailer - Storage tips

From the USRider website:
USRider Offers Tips for Trailer Storage Preparation

With the cold and harsh weather of recent winters, more and more horse owners are recognizing the value of protecting their investment and winterizing their horse trailers.
When putting trailers up for the season, it’s important for horse owners to take time to do some preventive maintenance. USRider, the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for horse owners, reminds equestrians that preventive trailer maintenance in important not only in case an emergency arises but also to ensure that their trailers will be in optimal shape for the upcoming riding season.
“Your trailer has safely transported your four-legged friends all season, don't just unhook from the trailer and neglect it during the off-season, or when it is not going to be used for a significant time,” Cole added. “Trailers represent a significant investment and carry precious cargo and should be well maintained – even when not in use – to ensure performance and longevity.”
A recent research project co-sponsored by USRider illustrated the importance of maintaining horse trailers. “The data showed that a leading cause of trailer wrecks is lack of proper maintenance,” said Cole.
With input from Neva Kittrell Scheve, an equine travel expert, USRider maintains a Trailering and Equine Travel Safety Area on its website at www.usrider.org.
 
The posted horse trailer preparation tips include:

• Remove the emergency breakaway battery and store inside, out of the weather. Charge the battery at least every 90 days.
• Jack up the trailer and place jack stands under the trailer frame so that the weight will be off the tires. Follow trailer manufacturer's guidelines to lift and support the unit. Never jack up or place jack stands on the axle tube or on the equalizers.
• Lubricate mechanical moving parts, such as the hitch and suspension parts that are exposed to the weather.  Note: On oil-lubricated hubs, the upper part on each roller bearing is not immersed in oil and is subjected to potential corrosion. For maximum bearing life it is recommended that you revolve the wheels periodically (every 2 to 3 weeks) during periods of prolonged storage.
• In addition to these recommendations, USRider advises horse owners to store the trailer inside, out of the elements if possible. If inside storage is not available, consider purchasing a cover for your trailer. Also, if storing the trailer outside, cover its tires. Tire covers are available through trailer dealers and RV dealers. (Be sure to note the size of your tires when purchasing covers.)
• When preparing a horse trailer for off-season storage, it’s a good time to take stock of the trailer –evaluate the tires, breakaway battery, and overall condition. Then make a list of equipment and any repairs that are needed. Moreover, go ahead and schedule those repairs and other upgrades to be performed to beat the rush and be ready for next season.
• Be sure to oil or grease the trailer’s moving parts, such as hinges and jack stands. It is also important to wash and clean your trailer’s interior and exterior thoroughly, and wax its painted surfaces before storing it. This will help maintain the exterior surfaces. Prior to cleaning interior, remove any floor mats.

For additional safety tips, visit the Equine Travel Safety Area on the USRider website at www.usrider.org.

Cover Your Trailer - Part 2

A HUGE selection of  'instant' garages are available!!!!   Some come with anchor kits - others charge extra.  You can have optional roll-up doors or zippered doors on the front and back. Some have extra framing for heavy snow loads.  I have seen them in green, gray, blue, tan, and white.  Styles include, round, house, and barn.  Some are expandable in 4' sections.  Tons of options and sizes.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This one is around $1,300

From the website:
The barn style instant portable garage everyone has been asking for!

This is a good looking storage shed, boat, RV or camper enclosure. At twenty eight feet long, there's plenty of room for all your toys!
Keeping vehicles covered and dry is one use, but there are thousands of uses of this size and the barn style roof make snow slide right off. The UV protected fabric stops the sun from penetrating giving the cover a long life.

http://instantgaragesales.zoovy.com/product/SKT122812B/12x28x12_Barn_Style_Instant_Portable_Utility_Building.html

Not too bad - of course, it has a really nice concrete pad and shows the double frame option (for heavy snow loads) - another $1,000 for that option!!!  (12x28x12)

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From the website:
The ShelterLogic Instant Garage features a unique round style design that delivers 4-season protection for cars trucks, boats and more. Heavy-duty portable shelter is a low cost solution compared to more permanent storage options. All steel frame and heavy-duty ripstop UV-treated 9-oz. waterproof fabric cover. Includes zippered front door, solid back panel and temporary anchoring system. Gray with white interior.
http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_6970_200350140_200350140

This one is around $850 - similar size to the first one. (12x28x10)

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From the website:
Rhino Shelter Garages provide the best in instant and portable protection for any purpose. Typical uses include vehicle protection and storage, equipment/material storage, and workshop areas. The pre-drilled frame is easily assembled with minimal hand tools. Unlike other products, no drilling or field cutting is required.
Main Cover and Doors are long life UV Resistant Fire Retardant Poly with Fabric Backing. All fabric components feature Heat Welded Seam construction. Unit features double zipper doors on Both Ends to allow drive though capability, and good ventilation. Each door contains a pocket for a rigid pole.
Each unit comes equipped with permanent anchor system and one door roll-up kit.
http://www.bettymills.com/shop/product/view/Rhino%20Shelter/MDM84006.html

~ $1,100  Also similar in size to the first two shown above. (14x24x10)

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here is an RV sized option:

This RVshelter is 14" wide 15' high and 42' long and is priced at ~ $2,400

http://www.bettymills.com/shop/product/view/Rhino%20Shelter/MDMRV144215GN.html

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As you can see, there are many options and price points.  A little research on the internet and you can find just about any size on these instant garages you could possible want for your horse trailer storage needs in any climate.

Cover Your Trailer - Part 1

The subject of covering up your expensive horse trailer came up on the HTW board.  I decided to look into what is available. This week shows some inexpensive options to cover your trailer.  Next Saturday I will explore some more expensive options.

Triple-Layer Aqua-shed top panel with polypropylene side panels provide maximum protection for your Horse Trailer. Fully breathable fabric allows trapped moisture to evaporate from within. Highly U.V. resistant. Almost waterproof. Passenger-side zipper entry doors allow access during storage. Heavily reinforced rear corners resist tears and snags. Elasticized bottom hems at front and back provide a snug fit. Bunny-ear cinching system contains excess fabric. Strap and buckle secures cover firmly in place underneath trailer. Will work for all Thoroughbred/Standard bumper-pull trailers between 8 and 18 feet long. Cinching system accounts for whether the trailer has a round front or a “v” front. Exclude hitch when determining trailer length. Storage Bag included. (Gray only)
http://www.doubledtrailers.com/Trailer_Covers.htm


Beverly Bay Universal Fit.  Most expensive one here is $350

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fully breathable fabric allows trapped moisture to evaporate from within. Highly U.V. resistant. Water resistant material is almost waterproof. Zipper entry doors on both sides of cover allow access during storage. Heavily reinforced rear corners resist tears and snags. Features elasticized bottom hems at front and back to provide a snug fit. Bunny-ear cinching system contains excess fabric. Strap and buckle secures cover firmly in place underneath trailer and around gooseneck. Will work for almost all thoroughbred/standard gooseneck trailers up to 34' 6" in length. The cinching system design accounts for fitting a round front or a "v" front trailer. Gray only. Includes a free storage bag and cinching ropes

Passenger-side zipper entry doors allow access during storage. Heavily reinforced rear corners resist tears and snags. Elasticized bottom hems at front and back provide a snug fit. Bunny-ear cinching system contains excess fabric. Strap and buckle secures cover firmly in place underneath trailer. Will work for all Thoroughbred/Standard bumper-pull trailers between 8 and 18 feet long. Cinching system accounts for whether the trailer has a round front or a "v" front. Exclude hitch when determining trailer length. 2-year warranty. Perfect for use between shows or long term storage. Storage bag included

http://www.valleyvet.com/ct_detail.html?pgguid=1e276d02-7be5-42dd-a8a1-8a2d425ba046

Also Beverly Bay brand.   Most expensive one here is $254.95  It certainly pays to shop around!!

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Here is an alternative - an RV cover for your GN/5th wheel trailer (fits up to 40'):

Ideal for high moisture climates including all northern states and Canada

Triple layer SFS AquaShed? top panel beads water on contact

High performance Polypropylene side panels
Completely Breathable with moderate U.V. stability Strap and buckle attachments prevent billowing

Reinforced, elasticized corners

Front and rear cinching system for loose fabric

Zipper Entry Doors on passenger side and rear

Storage Bag included.

2 year warranty

Protect your 5th Wheel trailer with the most durable contour-fit RV cover on the market. High performance polypropylene sides insure maximum breathability and virtually eliminate mold and mildew. Triple layer SFS AquaShed? top panel beads water on contact affording maximum resistance to high humidity and rainfall in addition to protection against UV rays. Passenger Side Zipper Entry Doors for access during storage. Rear Zipper Entry Doors for access to cargo ramp. Strap and buckle attachments prevent billowing in windy locations and allow for a custom look. Reinforced, elasticized corners resist tears and snags. Front and rear cinching system for loose fabric. Includes storage bag. Polypropylene ladder cap reinforces rear panel reducing cover wear over ladder. Include bumpers, spare tire and ladder when measuring your RV to determine the cover needed for a proper fit. Scaled to fit 5th Wheels up to 102" wide and 126" tall excluding ground clearance

http://www.rvwholesalers.com/catalog/maintaining-your-rv-rv-covers-and-accessory-covers-fifth-wheel-covers-adco-sfs-aquashed-5th-wheel-cover/


Most expensive one here is $345

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If you want a totally custom cover (very $$$) then here is the place for you:

http://www.coversearch.com/rv/dimensions_class_cargo_trailer.html

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The way I see these things, if they are not easy to put on and off, I'm not going to bother.  In addition, if I have a door on my trailer to the DR or LQ, I want to be able to get to it easily.  The zipper entry door would be a must have.

Extend-a-cab

Pickup Extend-a-cab - $350 (IL)
Pickup truck extend-a-cab: Fiberglass unit to add to existing cab with 2 opposing seats and a back exit door. I used this on my 85 Dodge when showing horses and pulling a gooseneck horse trailer and also when pulling our camper and it gave us some extra room with out buying a crew cab truck. I purchased this new at the cost of 1200.00 even at that time it was more expense than a full size topper but you couldn't use a topper and a gooseneck together. I have had this sold a couple times but then the people although said they were buying it never came back with the cash. If you bring cash, and make a reasonable offer , we can deal. It has a small hole in the door panel where a garden tractor got to close. It will fit the dodges and fords of the 80s but I don't know what else. I have quite a few photos that I can e-mail. Mounting Total width is 69" with a 4" x 32 1/2' lip on both sides. Burgandy in color but some of the clearcoat is pealing off.

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Is it legal to have someone sitting in this thing when you are driving??  Are there seatbelts?

Save money by not getting a true extended cab??  Not me  :-)

(Updated Nov 2 post with more pics)

Save Your Shortbed Truck

An extension for your GN - allows your GN to be 9" (or more) further back in your truck bed while maintaining the proper weight distribution.  Increases the distance from your GN to your truck rear window and increases the distance between the truck and trailer box.

We could really use one of these - the truck we use to pull our 3H wide nose GN is a shortbed.  The GN is so close to the back window we could swear that it was going to hit us when we go around tight corners!!  And going over steep hills or RR tracks or a sharp dip in the road or entrances, it seems like the neck wing gussets are going to take out the tailgate.  It would also allow us to put more stuff in the bed of the truck and make moving between the truck and trailer much easier.

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From their website:

Everyone who tows a gooseneck trailer needs more clearance between the truck and trailer. You either need more trailer swing for maneuvering, or you need more room at the tailgate for hooking up. Well, PopUp has a simple solution to this predicament.
 The new PopUp Short Bed Extended Coupler provides nine inches more clearance between the truck cab and the trailer nose, and between the truck tailgate and the trailer bulkhead - giving you more trailer swing and more room for hook-up.

To make the towing experience better yet, this extended coupler latches and unlatches remotely. 3 3/4 inches from ball to top gusset against the trailer neck tube. That's how much clearance you'll have with the SB1 all the way up the trailer tube.

The new PopUp Short Bed Extended Coupler fits standard round trailer tubes, square tubes and installs in about thirty minutes.

Lots of good pictures on the website:

http://mrtruck.net/popup.htm

FREE!

Free Old Metal / Wood Divider for Horse Trailer.

It is leaning against the red shed in our backyard and can be picked up at any time. I will delete this ad when it is gone. Please see the Older TV (it works), Hardibacker for tiling, and old tin (stained) in another ad.
Please call Heidi with any questions or email the link on Craigs List. Our address is xxx   Go 1/4 mile and our house is on the right hand side. Our house numbers are clearly labeled on a sign at the bottom of the driveway. Thank you!  (WV)

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How big is it ? How does it attach to the trailer? Do you know what it came out of?  I guess if it is for free, you can't expect too much information.  I call this a Saturday Saver 'cause if you need one of these, you can save some money and get this mighty fine specimen for FREE!!  Just give 'ol Heidi a call.

Save Your Trailer's Paint Job

These are a neat item for your truck.  If you have a nice paint job on your trailer and don't want it messed up from rocks and dirt from the road, these temporary mud flaps are just the ticket.  Between $230 and $250.

http://www.mudflaps.com/

Save Your Money

Living Quarters To Go

I have seen this a couple of times now in various blogs.  This is a great way to have the basics and not put out the big $$ for a weekender/LQ trailer.  The unit weighs 220lbs+ so you will need help moving it from trailer to trailer.  I am still trying to figure out where the cowboy shower is located that is included. 

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$2,700 and all the work is already done.  Just pop it into the trailer and hook it up.

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http://www.whinnycargo.com/living_qrts_to_go.htm

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I am thinking that a unit like this would be nice in my 'new' horse van if it were on wheels.  I could secure it in the front while driving and move it towards the back horse area - leaving  a very large (8' x 12') open area in the front of the van when I am at the campsite.  Hmmmmm, I am going to have to think about that for awhile.........

Save Your Back

While looking for horse trailers, I have come across lots of nifty gadgets and things to use to make life easier.  Some I have used/purchased, some I have just seen and thought would be nice to have someday.   So Saturday will be 'saver' day.  As in, save money, time, effort, your health etc.



I currently have a 3H GN with rear tack and I know that getting the top saddle is a PITA!!  This gadget will do the lifting for you.


From their website:
Lift and Lower your heavy saddle in your trailer easily.

Swing Out models:

Around $1,600

They also have a 5 saddle model.

Straight Model:

 
Around $1,300
I have no relationships with the companies that I show - I just like the products.

*sigh*  why is everything so expensive though?