Weekly Tips MAR 07

Mar 17th, 2007

Build or Buy a 4 by 8 Trailer

Every Handyman and home builder should have a trailer. These can vary immensely in design, size and capacity. Trailers can range in price from as low as $700 to a high of $6,000 or more for custom made enclosed versions.

For around a thousand dollars, you can get what is referred to as a 4 by 8 trailer with a load ramp. The ramp option will increase the cost of the trailer by about 20 percent but is well worth the money. Loading larger items is easy, and the ramp will enable you to roll on items like applicances, small lawn equipment and garden tractors. Using a dolly to transport appliances is much easier than lifting them onto the back of a pick up. Unlike a van, most fridges can stand upright on the trailer and be secureed with webs.

Trailers also have some great advantages. You usually do not need any extra insurance for a small trailer. Once attached to your vehicle, your insurance policy will cover the trailer and its contents. Just check with your insurance agent before you hit the road. Licensing is also inexpensive. In most provinces and states, there is a nominal one time fee for a plate and never needs renewal. Best of all, trailers require little maintenance. With no motor, a cursory check and annual bearing lubrication is all you need for years of service.

Getting around with your trailer hooked up to your car will only take a little practice. Backing up is of course the most challenging,  but the longer the tongue on your trailer the easier it is.

You can build the plans featured on our site, or you can buy one. Either way you'll save a lot of money and time and open the possibilities of transporting materials, belongings or equipment. If you plan on buying a trailer try to get one with at least 13" wheels. These are prone to less bearing failure, flat tires and offers a smoother ride.

Mar 31st, 2007

MakeShift Builder's Level

How Many times have you been at the cottage, 22 miles from town and ready to build that shed when you realize you forgot your spirit level. You can create an accurate level with your builder's square and a plumb bob. When the plumb bob is centered as shown, the board or surface you are measuring will be level.

In a pinch, and hanging weight that is perpendicular to an edge will give you a level reading. You can even use a piece of scrap plywood. Decide which edge you will use as your level. Then, on the opposite edge, mark the center. Mark the center of the the edge you will use as a level too. Suspend a washer or other weight from the upper center mark using a small nail and when the washer aligns with the lower center mark, your reading edge along the the bottom is level.