Are Triple Crown Trailers Any Good? (5 Pro Tips For Arborists)

Let’s dive into the world of Triple Crown Trailers and whether they’re a good fit for arborists like us. One of the first things I always consider when investing in equipment, especially something as substantial as a trailer, is its resale value. After all, our needs change, our businesses grow, and sometimes we need to upgrade. A trailer that holds its value is a trailer that continues to work for you, even when you’re done using it directly. So, are Triple Crown Trailers a good investment? Let’s explore this and other crucial aspects with five pro tips tailored for arborists.

Are Triple Crown Trailers Any Good? (5 Pro Tips for Arborists)

For arborists, a reliable trailer is more than just a means of transport; it’s an essential part of our mobile workshop. It carries our chainsaws, ropes, climbing gear, wood chippers, and, of course, the wood itself. Choosing the right trailer can significantly impact our efficiency, safety, and overall profitability. In this guide, I’ll share my experiences and insights to help you decide if a Triple Crown Trailer is the right choice for your arborist business.

Understanding the Arborist’s Trailer Needs

Before we dive into the specifics of Triple Crown Trailers, let’s define what an arborist needs in a trailer. Our requirements are often more demanding than those of the average user. We deal with heavy loads, uneven terrain, and the constant wear and tear of hauling logs, brush, and equipment.

Load Capacity: Arborists frequently transport heavy loads of logs, brush, and equipment. A trailer must have a sufficient Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to handle these loads safely and legally.
Durability: Our trailers are subjected to rough conditions, including off-road driving and exposure to the elements. A durable trailer with a robust frame and high-quality components is essential.
Security: Chainsaws, climbing gear, and other arborist equipment are valuable and attractive to thieves. A trailer with secure storage options is a must.
Maneuverability: Arborists often work in tight spaces, such as residential yards and wooded areas. A trailer that is easy to maneuver is crucial.
Customization: The ability to customize a trailer with tool racks, wood chip boxes, and other specialized features can significantly improve efficiency.

Tip #1: Evaluating Build Quality and Durability

The foundation of any good trailer is its build quality. Triple Crown Trailers are generally known for their robust construction, but it’s essential to examine the details closely. I’ve personally inspected several Triple Crown Trailers and have been impressed with the following:

Frame Construction: Triple Crown typically uses a steel frame, which is stronger and more durable than aluminum. Look for trailers with fully welded frames, as these are less likely to fail under heavy loads. I always check the weld quality, looking for consistent beads and no signs of porosity.
Axle and Suspension: The axle and suspension system are critical for handling heavy loads and rough terrain. Triple Crown usually uses leaf spring suspension, which is a reliable and cost-effective option. Consider upgrading to a torsion axle suspension for a smoother ride and better handling, especially if you frequently travel on unpaved roads. The weight rating of the axle is paramount. Ensure it exceeds your typical load. For instance, if you are routinely hauling 5,000 lbs of wood and equipment, you’ll want an axle rated for at least 6,000 lbs, providing a safety margin.
Decking Material: The decking material should be durable and weather-resistant. Triple Crown typically uses treated wood, which is a good option for most applications. However, consider upgrading to steel or aluminum decking for even greater durability and longevity, particularly in wet climates. I’ve seen treated wood rot prematurely in areas with high humidity.
Paint and Finish: The paint and finish protect the trailer from rust and corrosion. Look for trailers with a powder-coated finish, as this is more durable than traditional paint. Regularly inspect the paint for chips and scratches, and touch them up as needed to prevent rust.

Personal Experience: I once had a trailer with a poorly welded frame. After only a few years of use, the welds began to crack, and the frame eventually failed. This experience taught me the importance of carefully inspecting the frame construction before purchasing a trailer.

Data Point: According to a study by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM), trailers with fully welded frames have a 20% lower failure rate than trailers with bolted frames.

Tip #2: Assessing Load Capacity and GVWR

One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a trailer is its load capacity and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR is the maximum permissible weight of the trailer and its cargo. Exceeding the GVWR can damage the trailer, compromise safety, and lead to legal penalties.

Calculating Your Load: Before you start shopping for a trailer, take the time to calculate the weight of the equipment and materials you will typically be hauling. Include the weight of your chainsaws, ropes, climbing gear, wood chipper (if applicable), and the wood itself.
Understanding GVWR: The GVWR is listed on the trailer’s VIN plate. Make sure the GVWR is sufficient to handle your typical load, with a safety margin of at least 10%.
Axle Rating: The axle rating is the maximum weight that each axle can support. Make sure the axle rating is sufficient to handle your load, and that the axles are properly spaced to distribute the weight evenly.
Tire Rating: The tire rating is the maximum weight that each tire can support. Make sure the tire rating is sufficient to handle your load, and that the tires are properly inflated.

Example Calculation: Let’s say you need to haul the following:

Chainsaws and climbing gear: 200 lbs
Wood chipper: 1,000 lbs
Logs: 4,000 lbs

Your total load is 5,200 lbs. To provide a 10% safety margin, you should choose a trailer with a GVWR of at least 5,720 lbs.

Case Study: I once worked on a project where we needed to remove several large oak trees from a residential property. We underestimated the weight of the logs and overloaded our trailer. The trailer’s axle failed, causing significant damage and delaying the project. This experience taught me the importance of accurately calculating the load and choosing a trailer with a sufficient GVWR.

Tip #3: Customization Options for Arborist Needs

One of the advantages of Triple Crown Trailers is that they offer a range of customization options to meet the specific needs of arborists. Here are some customizations that I have found particularly useful:

Tool Racks: Tool racks provide a secure and organized way to store your chainsaws, ropes, and other climbing gear. Look for racks that are adjustable and can accommodate different sizes of tools. I prefer racks made from steel, as they are more durable than plastic.
Wood Chip Boxes: Wood chip boxes are essential for hauling wood chips and other debris. Look for boxes that are made from durable materials and have a secure latching system. Consider a box with a hinged lid for easy loading and unloading.
Tie-Down Points: Tie-down points are crucial for securing your load. Look for trailers with multiple tie-down points that are strategically located around the deck. I prefer tie-down points that are welded to the frame, as these are stronger than bolted tie-down points.
Ramps: Ramps are essential for loading and unloading heavy equipment, such as wood chippers. Look for ramps that are made from durable materials and have a high weight capacity. Consider ramps that are adjustable in length and width to accommodate different types of equipment.
Lockable Storage: Secure storage is essential for protecting your valuable equipment from theft. Consider adding a lockable toolbox or storage compartment to your trailer.

Personalization Example: I customized my Triple Crown Trailer with a steel tool rack that can hold up to six chainsaws, as well as several climbing ropes and harnesses. This has significantly improved my efficiency and organization on the job site. I also added a lockable toolbox for storing my more valuable equipment, such as my climbing spurs and arborist saw.

Insight: When customizing your trailer, consider the specific tasks you will be performing and the equipment you will be using. Choose customizations that will improve your efficiency, safety, and security.

Tip #4: Safety Considerations and Legal Requirements

Safety should always be your top priority when using a trailer. It’s also crucial to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

Proper Loading: Distribute the load evenly on the trailer to prevent swaying and instability. Place heavier items towards the front of the trailer and secure all items with tie-down straps or chains.
Safe Driving: Drive at a safe speed and maintain a safe following distance. Be aware of the trailer’s increased length and width when making turns and changing lanes.
Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect the trailer for signs of wear and tear, such as cracked welds, worn tires, and loose bolts. Perform routine maintenance, such as lubricating the bearings and checking the brakes.
Brake Controllers: If your trailer has brakes, you will need a brake controller in your tow vehicle. Make sure the brake controller is properly installed and adjusted.
Lights and Signals: Ensure all lights and signals on the trailer are working properly. This includes the brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
Registration and Insurance: Make sure your trailer is properly registered and insured.
Licensing: Depending on the GVWR of your trailer, you may need a special driver’s license. Check with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for specific requirements.

Legal Note: In many jurisdictions, trailers with a GVWR over a certain weight require annual safety inspections. Familiarize yourself with the regulations in your area and ensure your trailer is in compliance.

Safety Story: I once witnessed a serious accident involving a trailer that was improperly loaded. The trailer began to sway violently, causing the driver to lose control and crash into a ditch. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured, but the accident could have been avoided if the load had been properly distributed.

Tip #5: Evaluating Triple Crown Trailer Resale Value and Warranty

As I mentioned at the beginning, resale value is a key consideration. While Triple Crown Trailers aren’t necessarily known as the highest resale value brand, they do hold their value reasonably well, especially if they’ve been well-maintained. Here’s what to consider:

Maintenance Records: Keep detailed records of all maintenance performed on your trailer. This will demonstrate to potential buyers that you have taken good care of the trailer and can increase its resale value.
Condition: The condition of the trailer is the most important factor affecting its resale value. Keep the trailer clean and free of rust and damage. Repair any damage promptly.
Market Demand: The demand for used trailers can fluctuate depending on the economy and the season. Research the market to determine the current resale value of similar trailers in your area. Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and specialized trailer sales sites can give you a good idea of current pricing.
Warranty: Check the terms of the Triple Crown Trailer warranty. A longer warranty can provide peace of mind and increase the trailer’s resale value. Review the warranty document carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. Understand typical wear and tear vs. manufacturing defects.
Documentation: Keep all original documentation, including the bill of sale, registration, and warranty information. This will make it easier to sell the trailer and can increase its resale value.

Resale Strategy: I typically try to sell my trailers privately, as I can usually get a higher price than trading them in. However, trading in a trailer can be a convenient option if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of selling it yourself.

Warranty Insight: Many trailer warranties are voided if the trailer is used for commercial purposes. Be sure to check the warranty terms carefully to ensure that it covers your intended use.

Beyond the Tips: The Importance of Wood Selection and Firewood Preparation

While choosing the right trailer is crucial for arborists, let’s briefly touch upon some key aspects of wood processing and firewood preparation, areas that directly impact the loads we haul and the efficiency of our operations.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood with a high moisture content. Seasoned wood is wood that has been dried to reduce its moisture content. Seasoned wood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke than green wood. I aim for a moisture content of below 20% for firewood.
Wood Species: Different wood species have different burning characteristics. Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and ash, are denser and burn longer than softwoods, such as pine and fir. Oak is my preferred firewood because of its high heat output and long burn time, but it takes longer to season.
Splitting Wood: Splitting wood is essential for reducing its size and increasing its surface area, which promotes faster drying and more efficient burning. I use a hydraulic log splitter for larger logs and an axe for smaller pieces.
Stacking Wood: Stacking wood properly allows air to circulate, which speeds up the drying process. I stack my firewood in rows, with spaces between the rows to allow for airflow. I also cover the top of the stack to protect the wood from rain and snow.
Drying Time: The drying time for firewood varies depending on the wood species, the size of the pieces, and the climate. In general, hardwoods take longer to season than softwoods. I typically season my firewood for at least six months, and preferably a year, before burning it. Using a moisture meter is the best way to determine if your firewood is ready to burn.

Project Example: Firewood Stacking for Optimal Drying

I once conducted a small experiment to compare different firewood stacking methods. I stacked oak firewood using three different methods:

Traditional Row Stacking: Stacking the wood in rows, with no spaces between the rows.
Loose Row Stacking: Stacking the wood in rows, with spaces between the rows.
Circular Stacking (Holz Hausen): Stacking the wood in a circular pattern.

I measured the moisture content of the wood in each stack over a period of six months. The results showed that the loose row stacking method resulted in the fastest drying time, followed by the circular stacking method. The traditional row stacking method resulted in the slowest drying time. This experiment confirmed the importance of allowing for airflow when stacking firewood.

Tool Specifications:

Chainsaw: Stihl MS 261 C-M (18-inch bar) – A versatile chainsaw for felling and bucking.
Axe: Fiskars X27 Splitting Axe – A powerful axe for splitting firewood.
Log Splitter: SpeeCo S404125 25-Ton Hydraulic Log Splitter – A reliable log splitter for handling large logs.
Moisture Meter: General Tools MMD4E Digital Moisture Meter – An essential tool for measuring the moisture content of firewood.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Arborist Business

Choosing the right trailer is a critical decision for any arborist. Triple Crown Trailers offer a good balance of quality, durability, and affordability. By carefully evaluating your needs, assessing the build quality, considering customization options, prioritizing safety, and evaluating resale value, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your business for years to come. Remember to prioritize regular maintenance and safe operating practices to maximize the lifespan and value of your trailer. And don’t forget the importance of proper wood processing and firewood preparation techniques to ensure you’re hauling a product that’s both valuable and efficient to handle. Good luck, and happy hauling!

Are Triple Crown Trailers Any Good? (5 Pro Tips for Arborists)