In the trailering world, form follows function. How you intend to use your trailer determines what trailer you will buy.
If you’re in the market for, say, a new race trailer, look at the type of racing you do and the level of your performance. That will direct you to the trailer best suited to your needs. A local Saturday night racer will want a trailer around 30’ long, while a race team carrying more cars and equipment will naturally need a larger trailer. Fortunately, Haulmark’s RT and Edge models come in several lengths. You won’t get stuck with more trailer than you need.
Consider the extras you’ll be carrying. If you’re a dirt track racer, you know you’ll need more tires than an asphalt racer; therefore, you need more tire racks. Remember, you must secure anything you put in the trailer. Look for a good restraint system for both your vehicles and your extras. An unsecured, rolling toolbox may become a projectile that can cause a ton of damage in the trailer during an unexpected stop!
Besides determining how many vehicles and how much gear you want to haul to the track, you also need to make an honest assessment of the type of work you will do on your vehicles while you’re there. This will help determine what accessories you should choose. Haulmark’s Edge, for example, has an 8’ workbench, overhead cabinets and fluorescent lights that let you and your crew make any needed repairs.
Look for features that make the trailer more functional. For instance, a large side door provides access to the racecars, and recessed D-rings let you secure your car while minimizing the risk of stumbling over them at the track. Check out the axles and suspension for the type of handling a trailer will offer.
A note of caution here—hold off on choosing the show options at this point. You’ll want to make sure you have a good working trailer before spending money on less necessary options.
Once you are sure you have all of the mandatory items for your type and level of racing, you can start looking at the add-ons. While add-ons add to the price, they also affect your trailer’s looks and its comfort level. You want your crew and yourself to be as comfortable as possible at the track in order to concentrate on what really matters.
Your look is important, too—not only is it your image at the track, it can also make a big impression on potential sponsors. Little touches such as matching graphics on your Haulmark trailer and motorcoach gives you a unit that radiates professionalism and success to someone looking for a racecar to sport his company’s logo.
The trailer you take to the track fills two functions. It helps you keep your vehicle on the track, and it makes a statement to the race community about you and your team. Carefully choosing your trailer plays a major part in achieving both aspects.