Cut trailer to shorten length

[Bill2002canada]

Hello,<br /><br />Would I cause a problem if I cut about 3 inches off the front of my trailer? I would like to store the boat in the garage this winter and the trailer tongue is about 3 inches too long to clear the door.<br /><br />Also, if it's okay to cut the trailer, what tool would give me the cleanest cut. That 3 inch square tubing looks pretty tuff.<br /><br />Thank you,<br />Bill

 

[Down South]

Re: Cut trailer to shorten length

I don't see any problem with cutting 3" off the trailer tongue if you have enough clearance which you should. This means you will need to remove the trailer hitch. Is it bolted on or welded on? If it's bolted on, then no problem. If welded, then the hitch will need to be cut off and re-welded or replaced. A good hacksaw will do the job, just add a little elbow grease. <br /><br />good luck

 

[Capt. Bob]

Re: Cut trailer to shorten length

Or cut the welded one off and buy a bolt on one......<br /><br />I would put the towing vehicle and trailer into a tight turn on the driveway and check to see if it looked like something might hit the boat before cutting it off though.

 

[one more cast]

Re: Cut trailer to shorten length

I used a metal cutting blade on my skill saw (under $10) . you have to cut from both sides on 3 inch square. its a little dirty when cutting but makes a nice cut.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Cut trailer to shorten length

Borrow a Sawsall. Get a fine tooth metal cutting blade and scribe a square mark. Follow your line and take your time, no speed is needed.<br /><br />I have cut trailer tubes before the same way for variour reasons and never had a problem. <br /><br />Another idea is.... there are companies that sell hinged pieces that can be installed on your trailer. This will allow you to swing the trailer tongue away to fit in a garage. <br /><br />Bob

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Cut trailer to shorten length

I thought I seen somewhere, that there was a colapsable trailer hitch that can be put on trailers or maybe it was removable. My mind just went blank.

 

[JB]

Re: Cut trailer to shorten length

I have seen trailers with folding tongues and removable tongues. BOSS makes removable tongue trailers.<br /><br />The two part tongue on my old Magic Tilt can be taken apart by removing one bolt, leaving the tongue about 18" shorter.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[martinwinte]

Re: Cut trailer to shorten length

Just a sugestion.... If all you need is 3" and you have a bolt on coupler why not just remove the coupler??? Just back the trailer in the garage and remove the coupler. I belive it would give you your needed 3".