Which flatbed TRL to use?

The Bulkhead is removable, is bolted on the corners and tach welded across the front. I don't like this paticular Bulkhead because it is just a plate. No place for storage, and it will be in my way when getting equipment from Headacherack.

 

OK, went and bought my 48' x 96" flatbed trailer today and took a real good look at this bulkhead,,,, I will not remove it unless I use a torch. It looks factory to me, the guy that told me it is removable by grinding off the spot welds must have not looked very well. I couldn't the 1st time I was there because I was busy doing other things. Anyway, the plate for the 5th wheel kingpin is welded to it and that tells me it was put on at the factory. So, now I ask all,,,where do you drivers that have a bulkhead put your equipment? I have a metal box on the rightside that looks like the normal metal box on flatbeds. Than I have a box on the leftside that is longer and has a gate on the front and two locks. I am more concerned with where I will put my chains than anything. The trailer has 9 ratchets and 4" straps on the rightside, but no ratchets on the leftside. The trailer also has two frame boxes that are for the sidekit, that did not come with the trailer. I could use them for something and thinking about buying a box for behind the cab as well. This trailer is not what I WANT but will do, prayfully, for the next 3 years.

 

lets see a picture or two

 

Will show them soon,,forgot to take them today...darn!

 

Check; plates and title transferred today, cost; $400

 

This would be a lot easier with pictures. You can get chain holders that lock at trailer/tarp supply places. A lot of companies will mount it on one side of the headboard so you can put two rolled up tarps on end beside them. A portable strap will keep the tarps from falling back.

 

The length of the trailer is irrelevant in regards to requiring an oversize permit. In general, you are allowed a 53' combination of trailer and load. With a 48' trailer you are allowed 5' of combined front and rear overhang. With a 53' trailer you are allowed none.

It is a common misconception that overhanging the trailer is what requires a permit. This is false for both over width and over length loads.

 

Bulkhead welded to the kingpin plate.....that dont sound factory sounds like back yard work. Seen many done like that but not factory. I would run it for now buy a real bulk head if thats what you want and cut it off. if you have a headache rack id cut it off. are you planning on running a sidekit?

 

My plans have been put on hold, due to life changes. I am putting the flatbed up for sale or I will just have to hold onto it for a year or so. If anyone is interested, let me know.

As far as the bulkhead,,it sure looks like a factory job and here is why. If I was to remove it there would be nothing on the front of the trailer, it wouldn't work without the bulkhead. Plus, like I said, the skid plate is welded to it, like it was done at the factory. Anyway, I didn't pay that much for it so I would just use it as is till I could buy a different one. Had no plans to run a side kit.

 

Let us revive this thread...
I am going to look at a 1998 Fontaine Combo 48 x 102, spread axle and air ride for...wait for it.....$4500 and it looks to be in good shape, looking at the pictures anyway. I will be going to actually look at it on the 3rd. It has an aluminum deck with steel frame. The guy tell's me that the kingpin will need to be changed soon and the spindle on the front axle, drivers side is bad. I have asked around and the kingpin shouldn't be expensive at all, found a new one on Ebay for $63. The spindle will cost some, maybe $1000-$1500 Even if I have to put $2500 into it, to get it road (dot) worthy, it will still be a good deal. What do you all think?