The terminology used by trailer manufacturers and resellers can be somewhat daunting when researching different towing solutions. Stick with us, while we break down some of the more common phrases, making it a little less convoluted for all!
WEIGHT
Aggregate Trailer Mass (ATM)
The weight of the trailer (tare weight) and its load (allowable payload) when not attached to a tow vehicle.
Allowable Payload
As it suggests, this phrase defines the maximum weight that can be carried by the trailer. This can be calculated by subtracting the tare weight from the Aggregate trailer mass (ATM).
Downwards Towball weight/ Towball Mass
The total weight and force that is applied in a downwards onto the tow-hitch. Both the car manufacturer and the hitch manufacturer will communicate a maximum tow ball weight. Read our blog here – where we discuss the suggested 5-7% downwards tow ball weight for SureWeld Trailers.
Gross Trailer Mass (GTM)
The weight of the trailer and its load that is applied to the axles when attached to a tow vehicle.
Tare Weight
The raw weight of the trailer without any attachments or machinery.
WHEELS
Axle
The shaft that runs across the width of the trailer, supporting its weight and allowing the wheels to rotate. Axles are essential for distributing the load and maintaining balance while towing.
Dust Cap
A cap that is secured over the centre of your wheel – preventing the elements to enter the wheel bearings housing.
Hub
An assembly that connects the trailer tires to the axle and facilitates the spinning action.
Jockey Wheel
A small, adjustable wheel located at the front of the trailer, used to support and move the trailer when not hitched to a vehicle. It helps in lifting the trailer’s front end for easy connection to the tow vehicle.
Mud Flaps
Flexible flaps located behind the wheels to prevent mud and debris from being thrown up by the tires.
Mudguards
Protective guards installed above the trailer‘s wheels to prevent mud, debris, and water from splashing onto the trailer or nearby vehicles. SureWeld offers custom powder-coated mudguards that can match a company’s branding.
Wheel Bearing
An assembly within the hub, consisting of a metal ring holding a series of stainless steel balls together. Its purpose is to allow the trailer wheels spin freely without putting unnecessary stress on your trailer axles.
BRAKES
Breakaway
A cable fitted to the trailer that attaches to the car during transportation. In circumstances where the trailer disconnects from the car it will pull the breakaway cable and apply the brakes on the trailer automatically, creating a failsafe system. These are seen on trailers with electric braking – and some mechanical braked trailers.
Mechanical Override Brakes
Also known as intertia braking, this system operates automatically when the tow vehicle slows down, the trailer’s brakes are engaged. As the vehicle slows, it pushes against the tow hitch, and the coupling barrel, includes either a piston, coil spring or other, applies pressure to the braking system on the axles
SUSPENSION
Independent Rubber Suspension (IRS)
A unique type of suspension that includes a hexagonal tube, with three rubber elements inserted, that act as a self-dampener to compress road bumps. It allows each wheel on the same axle to move up and down, independent of the wheels. The rubbers basically operate as an inbuilt shock absorber. It is a simple and effective solution that enables a smooth stable and safe towing experience, and requires low maintenance.
Single Leaf/Parabolic Spring
A simple form of spring commonly used for the suspension in smaller trailers. It is an arc shaped piece of steel, that attaches to the chassis, and cradles the axle. The primary purpose is to provide support for the trailer, and also provide a smoother ride, absorbing any bumps in the road. It can be used to centralize the axle and control the trailers height when travelling.
Spring Hanger
The component of the trailer that holds each spring in place against the trailer frame. Generally the front of the spring will have an “eye” and the back of the spring will be a slipper.
COUPLING AREA
Coupling
The “device” of the trailer that connects the trailer to the tow vehicles hitch (or tow ball). It is either welded or bolted to the front of the trailer drawbar.
Hitch
The “device” that is attached to the vehicle chassis, and acts as the connector for towing trailers. It is also better known as a “towbar”.
Safety Chains
Chains that act as a backup connection between the trailer and the tow vehicle in the unlikely event, that the coupling fails, or it isn’t connected correctly.
FRAME
Centre Pans
Aluminium pan for storing attachments and accessories.
Cross-Members
Structural beams running across the width of the trailer, supporting the deck and distributing the load evenly across the chassis to prevent sagging and ensure strength.
Drawbar
The part of the main frame design in trailers that forms the front of the trailer, from the deck to the coupling. Usually this is welded on ‘A’ Frame. Sureweld has one piece rolled drawbar, reducing the stress points in the chassis.
Plant Trailer
A trailer specifically designed for carrying plant equipment like mini excavators, bobcats, and other machinery.
OTHER
Front/Side Marker Lights
Lights that are fitted to the trailer showing the presence and length of a trailer from the front and side. They must be fitted when a trailer is wider than 2100mm.
Galvanised Finish
A corrosion-resistant coating made from zinc, applied to metal surfaces to protect against rust. SureWeld uses galvanised finishes on their Steel Trailer Range for extra durability, and longevity.
Load Restraints
Devices like straps, chains, and lashing points used to securely fasten cargo to the trailer, ensuring that loads don’t shift or fall off during transportation.
Tie Down Kit
A selection of chains, load binder dogs, hooks, straps, and connectors, depending on the machine set up.
Tie Down Points
Designated areas on the trailer that have been designed and rated to strap down your machine.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
All trailers are identified by a unique 17 digit number that is specified by the International Standards Organization. This number must be marked in accordance with the Australian Design Rules (ADR) and will be engraved into the drawbar of trailers.
Warranty
A manufacturer’s promise to repair or replace parts of the trailer within a specified time, should defects or faults arise under normal usage conditions. SureWeld offers 3 years on trailers and 1 year on componentry, reflecting their confidence in product quality.
