enclosed trailer buying tips

If you are intent on making a big purchase on a snowmobile trailer, consider your options carefully. Today's enclosed trailers can serve as more than a tow-along. It can also serve as a summer home for your favorite winter toys or as a year round tow vehicle for non-snow toys like dirt bikes and ATVs. When shopping for that special trailer have a heart-to-heart talk with yourself first.

Ask yourself if the enclosed trailer is intended solely as a snowmobile transporter. If it is to be used for other toys, check out your options. Does the manufacturer offer motorcycle rails to help you place and stow your cruiser or dirt bike? Should you get a drop down rear door that serves as a ramp or is a traditional door sufficient? Will a drive-through trailer work for your sleds and other motor toys? If not check, what kind of access you need and what does the specific trailer manufacturer offer?

When you trailer in the winter do you need a generator to run power tools? What options do you have for stowing an onboard generator and fuel?

To help you with questions to consider, we visited with Wells Cargo, one of snowmobiling's premier manufacturers of sled trailers. Many of the standard features found on Wells Cargo trailers have been proven over many seasons of snowy roads. You will find a great deal of aluminum construction and accessorizing on top line trailers there. One reason is the obvious weight savings. Another is the rust-free nature of aluminum.

You should be aware of the trailer deck's construction materials. How thick is the material? Is there a warranty on it? How susceptible is it to rot and moisture?

Just as with open trailers, you'll find that Torflex torsion suspensions and EZ Lube hubs are predominant on the better quality sled haulers. You might want to consider dual axles if you are in the market for a three-place or larger trailer as it tows better and tends to be more maneuverable. (That may be a point to consider for drivers not accustomed to wheeling trailers into tight parking slots.)

Wells Cargo offers LED combination brake, stop and turn lighting on its newest snowmobile trailer. According to the company, the new LED lighting is brighter and more durable, requiring less maintenance and consuming up to 90 percent less power versus traditional incandescent lighting.

You'll find a 12-volt electrical system with all circuitry easily accessible from an interior junction box. This provides one central location for all troubleshooting.

Companies like Wells Cargo and Pace American have years of experience providing top quality trailers for snowmobiling. They have learned what basics snowmobilers want in their trailers and also have learned what options snowmobilers like. Consider this list when looking at a new enclosed trailer for your sleds.

• High Profile Brake Light - provides greater visibility when towing in a storm;
• Tie Downs - secure your sleds while on the move;
• Swing Out Light - onboard lighting for loading and problem solving;
• AlumaSport Wheels - add style and personalization;
• Additional Interior Height - afford extra head room for the taller rider or just adds more interior space to work in;
• Insulation - if you heat your trailer this is a great idea;
• Baseboard Heaters - onboard heating option to consider;
• Custom Flooring - more personalization could be a black and white checkered floor plan;
• Interior Lighting, Cabinets, Workbench - if you like to tinker when you travel with your sleds, these features are "must haves";
• Tinted Windows - afford some added privacy and extra natural light.

With some careful consideration, your purchase of a top-flight enclosed trailer will make winter the best season of all. If you did your homework, the other play seasons can be improved as well.