The Toyota Landcruiser Owners Club

uk_vette · Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2008 20:25 Post subject: Which type of traler suspension

Hello,
We are thinking about a trip from UK to Cape Town, Atlantic route.
I have been reading with interest that there is a liking to pulling a trailer on an over-landing trip.
Simply to share the load.
Now,
Would a person go for a sub 750Kg that has no requirement for brakes, or would one consider brakes on a trailer up to 750Kg essential.?
What would you consider to be the heaviest you would be prepared to tow.
Next question.
Trailers can either have leaf spring suspension, coil spring suspension, or the plain and simple solid rubber block with a square shaped axle running through it.
Which does the informed consider the better suspension and why.

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Paul_Humphreys · Posted: Thu Aug 21, 2008 20:28 Post subject:

Get a "wolf" spec Sankey. On leaf springs and disk brakes. It will carry 1t and good off of tarmac.

Paul

Wandering Willy · ******* Joined: 18 Jul 2007 Posts: 1016 Location: Norfolk

Just a couple of thoughts.

The advantage of leaf springs is that if they break, a replacement can be made by the local blacksmith using one off an old car or van. If a coil spring or the rubber block type suspension breaks, it's much more difficult to replace in the middle of nowhere (take a spare or two?).

If you go for an ex-military trailer, be aware that the 'NATO' type coupling needs a matching coupling on the back of your car. You can change the trailer to a ball hitch but for an off-road trip you would need a heavy coupling and that will add to the cost. The trailer coupling should also allow the trailer to twist as the car and trailer cross rough surfaces. I don't mean that the ball head will rotate on the ball but that the coupling head has a swivel mount onto the trailer. I have this on my horse-box trailer so I know they can be fitted.

Willy