Somebody talk me out of it - trailer purchase

I usually just lurk around and read messages and this week found myself in need of advice.

I've been looking at a tandem axle trailers for a while and last weekend found an older Big Tex. The price is right for the condition - $600 cash.

Current deck is serviceable, but it needs a new one. Wiring appears to be new, dealer says electric brakes work. I still need to get them to pull it out of the weeds so I can have a closer look.

Data plate says 5000 pounds capacity which is not much for a 20 foot trailer. My current uses for it are to transport a TO-30 with an implement or 2 (bushhog, boxblade, etc.), get a load of roughcut lumber or stone, get some logs to the mill, etc. I have a 12 foot single axle that does these jobs, except for TO 30/implement transport. sometimes I have to take multiple trips which wastes gas and time.

I can see the need to transport a bobcat or a larger tractor down the road (3-5 years).

So, do I get this less capable trailer now and trade up when I get a larger piece of equipment later ?

Or do I wait until the right one comes along. ?

wirehair

thank you for all the feedback. I am going to stay away from this one and keep looking.

wirehair

After pulling trailers for 40yrs, I've learned thru the school of hard knocks that you will never have enough trailer unless you break down and buy/build the one trailer that you will ever need.

I did that this year as I bought a new 20kGVW 27ft + 5ft dovetail, Dexter dual tandum oil bath 10K axles, 19# I-beam with 3" channel cross beams on 16" centers, 6" torque tube, 6" edge channel with a 2-1/2" x 3/8" rub rail, 20" sping assist ramps, Bulldog GN, for $6400 out the door and $200 lower than my material cost for the same.

Shorter trailers equiped the same was about $5100 and $600 deliverly.

Now I can get rid of my 28ft flated bumper pull, won't haul enough weight, and my 18ft + 4ft dovetail flatbed tri-axle pintel, that has no load sweet spot due to being a tri-axle and again since a bumper pull, limited load weight. Don't exceed bumper pull hitch ratings as there barely adaquote as it is and I have custom built hitching.

After one pull with my new trailer, I can see I should have bought/built this trailer many years ago. Increased load stability from the DRW alxes, increased braking capibility, I-beam frame for long lasting strength on rolling loads, torque tube for front deck stability without frame twisting, easy to lift ramps.

Cut your loss now and buy the correct trailer that will last you a life time. You will save money in the long run.

T_Bone