Wiktor Wise
Electric trailer dollies are handy tools that can help you move trailers over short distances without needing to hook up your truck. They can be expensive to buy, but you can save a lot of money by building one yourself. This usually involves measuring, cutting, drilling, and assembling parts like galvanized tee connectors, wheels, and nipples. You can also motorize an existing manual trailer dolly with a cheap truck winch. If you're up for a DIY project, read on to learn how to assemble an electric trailer dolly.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Parts | 2000 lb ATV winch, 16 tooth #40 drive gear, 54 tooth #40 driven gear, anchor plates, nuts and bolts, chain, wheels, rims, hubs, axles, motor, battery, winch, rocker switch, etc. |
| Cost | $500 CDN for parts |
| Time | A few days to a few weeks |
| Difficulty | Requires precision in measurements, cutting, welding, machining, and assembling |
| Use case | Maneuvering heavier and huge-sized objects in your basement, garage, or tight spaces |
| Benefits | Cheap, lightweight, portable, and easily transportable |
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$1052.99 $1129.99
What You'll Learn
Parts and tools
The parts and tools required to assemble an electric trailer dolly vary depending on the specific design and functionality desired. Here are the key components and tools commonly used:
Parts:
- Wheels and Tires: The choice of wheels and tires depends on the intended use of the dolly. For example, larger wheels with a diameter of about 16 inches are suitable for grass or slippery surfaces. Smaller trailer rims with 4-bolt spacing are also common.
- Axle: The axle is crucial for mounting the wheels. Some designs use a quad rear axle, while others may use a modified triple-wheel assembly or regular car wheels.
- Gears: A combination of drive and driven gears is often used to provide mechanical advantage and control. A common combination is a 16-tooth #40 drive gear and a 54-tooth #40 driven gear.
- Winch: A winch, such as a 2000 lb ATV winch, is used for tensioning and movement.
- Ball Coupler: A ball coupler is used for towing and can be adjustable in height.
- Motor and Controller: For electric trailer dollies, a motor and controller are necessary for powering and controlling the dolly's movement.
- Frame: The frame is typically made of galvanized metal sheets and pipes, providing structure and support.
- Chain: A heavy-duty chain is used for connecting and tensioning.
- Battery: A battery is required to power the electric motor.
Tools:
- Measuring tools: Precision measurements are essential for cutting, drilling, and assembling the parts accurately.
- Cutting tools: For cutting metal sheets, pipes, and other materials.
- Drilling tools: For creating holes and fastening components.
- Welding equipment: Welding is often required to join metal parts and create a sturdy structure.
- Fasteners: Bolts, nuts, anchor plates, and other fasteners are used to secure the components together.
- Mechanical parts: Additional mechanical parts may be needed for specific functionalities, such as steering or weight distribution.
It is beneficial to refer to video or written guides that provide detailed instructions and parts lists for assembling an electric trailer dolly. These guides can offer valuable insights into the specific parts and tools required for a successful build.
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Tyre and wheel assembly
When assembling an electric trailer dolly, the tyre and wheel assembly is a crucial component. This section will provide a detailed and instructive guide on how to approach this part of the assembly process.
Firstly, it's important to select the appropriate tyres and wheels for your dolly. The size and type of tyres will depend on the intended use of the dolly and the weight it needs to bear. For example, larger turf-type wheels may be more suitable for uneven surfaces, while smaller wheels might be adequate for indoor use or on smoother terrain. Ensure that the tyres have sufficient traction for the intended use, especially if you anticipate using the dolly on inclines.
The wheels should be securely attached to the axle, and the axle size should be considered in relation to the weight capacity and manoeuvrability required. A larger axle diameter, such as 1", can provide added strength to support heavier loads. It's also important to consider the bolt pattern when selecting wheels. A common pattern for small trailer rims is a four-bolt pattern with 4" spacing. However, you can also find rims with a 5x4.5" bolt pattern or other variations. Ensure that the rims and hubs are compatible with your chosen axle.
When assembling the wheels, follow a precise process to ensure stability and safety. After measuring and cutting any necessary components, securely attach the wheels to the axle using bolts or other appropriate fasteners. Ensure that all connections are tight and secure before testing the dolly's movement.
Additionally, consider the steering mechanism for your dolly. Some designs employ castors to enable easier turning, while others may have fixed front wheels that require lifting the handle to pivot and change direction. Depending on your design, you may need to incorporate a steering mechanism into your tyre and wheel assembly.
By carefully selecting the appropriate tyres and wheels, assembling them securely, and considering steering capabilities, you can effectively assemble the tyre and wheel components of your electric trailer dolly.
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Attaching the tow dolly
Firstly, it is imperative to ensure your trailer is safe for towing. Inspect the trailer thoroughly, including the tires, brakes, lights, and overall structure, to identify any potential issues. Address any problems before proceeding to the next step.
Now, let's move on to securing the tow dolly to your vehicle. The process can vary depending on your vehicle's specifications and the design of the tow dolly. A common method is to use two ½-inch J-bolts or anchor plates to attach the tow dolly to your vehicle. Make sure to follow the instructions specific to your tow dolly model for proper placement and attachment.
Once the tow dolly is securely attached, it's time to focus on tightening the nuts and bolts. Using the appropriate tools, ensure that all fasteners are securely tightened according to the manufacturer's torque specifications. This step is crucial for safety, as loose fasteners can lead to an unstable connection.
Finally, conduct a thorough inspection of your work. Check that the tow dolly is firmly attached to your vehicle and that all fasteners are tight. Additionally, ensure that the tow dolly is level and properly aligned with your vehicle. Any discrepancies or loose connections should be addressed before you consider your assembly complete.
By following these steps carefully, you can confidently attach your tow dolly, ensuring a safe and functional setup for your towing needs. Remember to refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your tow dolly for a seamless attachment process.
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Adjustments and testing
Once you've assembled your electric trailer dolly, you'll want to make sure it's working correctly and safely. Here are some adjustments and tests to consider:
- Weight Distribution: Ensure that the dolly is mounted in such a way that there is sufficient weight on it, allowing the tires to grip properly. This will also impact its performance on different surfaces.
- Steering Mechanism: Some designs may not have built-in steering capabilities, requiring you to lift the front tires off the ground to change direction. Consider adding castors to the front wheels to improve maneuverability.
- Ball Height: Adjust the ball height to match your trailer's coupler height. This may involve modifying the axle mounting to achieve the desired height.
- Tire Selection: Depending on the terrain, you may need to select appropriate tires. For example, larger turf-type wheels are better for uneven ground.
- Safety Measures: Implement safety features to prevent accidents. This could include a "dead man" switch that applies the trailer brakes when the handle is released or a breakaway system that activates the brakes in an emergency.
- Chain Tension: Adjust the chain tension to ensure optimal performance and avoid slack. This may involve fine-tuning the winch system.
- Performance Testing: Test the dolly's performance by attempting to move your trailer over various surfaces, including grass and gravel. Evaluate whether the dolly has sufficient power and traction for your needs.
- Final Touches: Once satisfied with the performance, apply primer and paint to protect the dolly from the elements and give it a finished look.
Remember to refer to the specific plans and instructions provided with your electric trailer dolly kit for detailed assembly, adjustment, and testing guidelines.
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Painting and finishing
Surface Preparation:
Before painting, it is essential to clean and prepare the surface of the trailer dolly thoroughly. Start by applying a degreaser to remove any oils or grease. Allow it to sit for about half an hour, then rinse it off. Next, apply an etch wash, which will react with and neutralize any remaining rust, creating a strong base for the paint. Leave the etch wash for another half-hour, continuously applying it to keep the surface wet. After rinsing and drying the trailer with a leaf blower, let it sit overnight to ensure it is entirely dry.
First Coat of Paint:
The first coat of paint is critical to ensuring a uniform and complete coverage. Using a brush, apply the first coat, taking care to massage the paint into every seam and corner. This step ensures that the paint reaches all the nooks and crannies, providing a solid base for subsequent coats.
Second Coat of Paint:
After the first coat has dried, it's time to apply the second coat. This coat can be a different colour, preferably one that will complement the final topcoat. For example, a tinted grey colour can serve as an excellent base for a bright safety red topcoat. This second coat can be applied using a roller for faster coverage of the flat areas, such as the deck panels.
Topcoat:
The topcoat is the final layer that gives the trailer dolly its finished appearance. In the example provided, a two-part urethane topcoat in safety red was used, providing a bright and eye-catching finish. The topcoat can be applied using a sprayer or a brush, depending on the desired finish and your personal preference.
Finishing Touches:
To complete the look, consider painting the white part of the wheels to match the newly painted trailer. Remove any painter's tape and inspect your work. A well-painted trailer dolly will not only look aesthetically pleasing but will also protect the underlying metal from corrosion, ensuring its longevity.
Remember, the key to a successful paint job is thorough preparation. Taking the time to remove rust and properly clean the surface will ensure that your paint adheres well and lasts longer.
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Frequently asked questions
An electric trailer dolly is useful for moving trailers over or through tight spaces without having to hook up your truck.
Precision in measurements, cutting, and welding is important to ensure the dolly can be easily assembled. It is also key to have weight on the dolly so that the tires can grip properly.
Parts required include a winch, gears, rims, tires, axles, motors, anchor plates, nuts, bolts, a handlebar, and a chain.
Parts can be found at Princess Auto in Canada and Harbour Freight in the US. Used parts can also be purchased on Craigslist.
