Help me build a trailer roller

by Vance Wonser

Mar 10, 2013

I need to build a rear roller for my trailer.  It hasnothing now, just 3" channel.

I would like to build rather than but so I'm looking for ideas on the roller itself, material, "axle', "bearings", etc.  I do have a light wire welder & can weld up to about 3/16".

Pictures are VERY much appreciated (I'm a visual learner)

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  • up

    Terry E Walsh

    Vance, building the roller out of a fence post is really easy. Drill hole in both ends, fill with epoxy, drive in the rebar. Cut out plates to fit over the rebar, slide down onto the wood and drill holes and bolt to post. Weld rebar to plate as well, then cut out two plates that you will drill holes in for rebar, then weld the plates to the trailer in the position you want. It works great and is very durable, the green posts are supposed to last for 35 years under water.

    Mar 12, 2013

    • up

      Jeff Grebe

      So here is a pretty cheap alternative that has been in service for ten years on my trailer.  I took a 3' x 3/4" solid steel rod and two pillow block bearings (used in swamp coolers) Used two stop collars to center the rod and a 2" dia pvc sleeve with end caps.  Glue the end caps on the pvc tube, drill 3/4" holes in the end caps slip over the rod, put a bearing on each end then the stop collars. Mount the bearings on a block of oak on the bed, and you have a sturdy cheap rolle for less than $20

      1

      Mar 12, 2013

      • up

        Steve Sobba

        Vance, posted pictures to my site on WBP in the Photos heading  the roller is about  2 1/2 inches. Hope this helps.

        3

        Mar 13, 2013