Bolt-together Utility Trailer Frame Kits

Almost all of these are from overseas and purchased from a mass tool importer.  They are usually a red or black bolt-together kit that has a 1000 – 2000 lb capacity.  This frame comes with wheels, tires, and an axle. This kit is also quite popular with teardrop camping enthusiasts.

The PROS 

• No Metal Working Skills Required – This kit bolts together
• Fast Assembly – Can be assembled in an afternoon.  Faster than any other frame in this list.
• Costs Less Up Front – Long-term expenses do start to pile up though. 

The CONS

This is where the long-term costs come.

• Quality Control – This imported trailer has changed a lot from year to year.  Parts tend to be low quality materials and workmanship.
• Low Quality Finish – These trailers are known to rust and corrode quickly.  Refinishing is easiest if it’s done before putting the teardrop body on the frame.
• Thin Sheet Steel Frame – The frame is made from sheet steel that has been bent into channel.  Although it works, it isn’t nearly as strong or durable as a forged steel channel.
• 4′ x 8′ Bed Size – Vintage teardrop trailers were mostly 4’x 8′ but most modern DIY builders want a 5′ x 8′ teardrop which has space for a queen sized bed.  This frame can be adapted to fit that size of trailer but it does require some creative problem solving.
• Axle Placement – The axle placement on this frame is for a utility trailer.  A teardrop’s axle is usually further toward the back of the frame because the galley is typically the heaviest part of the trailer with the bed being pretty light.  The axle should be moved back on this kit.
• Wheel Bearings – In the manual for this kit, it recommends the wheel bearings be repacked with grease every 2000 – 3000 miles.  This is way too often for most campers but it probably does protect the low-quality axle and hubs.
• No Highway Tires – In the manual for this kit, the maximum speed for this kit is 45 mph.  The reason is that the tires are not safe for highway speeds.  A new set of tires (maybe wheels) are a requirement for practical teardrop trailer use.
•  Bolts that Loosen/Wear Out – The hardware in this frame requires regular maintenance or replacing.  Bolts will loosen over time.  Lock washers, nylon locking bolts, and thread lock are all good ideas to help keep the frame together over time.

Although this kit has a long list of cons, it is worth noting that not every kit will have all of these issues.  Knowing what you’re getting is more than 1/2 the battle.  The top 3 most important upgrades that we recommend is to repaint/finish the frame, lockdown all of the fasteners, and upgrade the tires.