How old is too old?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by SemiMan, Jun 16, 2013.

  1. SemiMan

    SemiMan Light Load Member

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    About to buy a refeer and was wondering how old is too old. Plan is to buy a older refeer trailer and replace the refeer unit with a new CARB certified one. Now main thing we should look out for is to make sure the axle are not bent, so the tire ware is not a killer. Also how long do the bearings usually last on the trailers? Any hints of what i should look out for would greatly be appreciated.
     
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  3. G/MAN

    G/MAN Road Train Member

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    Axle bearings are not very expensive. I would not pass on a trailer if it only needed bearings. With a reefer, I would check underneath to see if the floor is solid. I almost bought one once that had a rotten floor. It would have cost more to replace the floor than the trailer was worth. I would also check the chute and doors to make sure they ar not warped. The frame and slider rails should not be warped or bent, either.
     
  4. jbatmick

    jbatmick Road Train Member

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    I agree,main thing is the floor. Near back door,where tow motors bounce going into trailer, check very carefully, can be very costly.
     
  5. Cummins_444

    Cummins_444 Medium Load Member

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    I'm no reefer hauler. But I would think you would want to weigh the trailer. I would assume as the trailer ages moisture would seep into the walls insulation through any damages inside from forklifts. Adding water weight. But I could be wrong.
     
  6. Passin Thru

    Passin Thru Road Train Member

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    I've seen too amny floors in front of the back door give way. Aluminum corrodes from dissimilar metal corrosion and eventually it wil give up. Worked for a CO at one tiem hauling meat and every one they owned had the floor reinforced about 3 ft in.
     
  7. Rich_Trucking

    Rich_Trucking Light Load Member

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    I agree, reefers are so darn expensive. Im in the market for used one, that has been well maintained. It will be my first trailer! any lead?
     
  8. Vio

    Vio Light Load Member

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    Sep 25, 2012
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    Buy a new one
     
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