gate latches for utility trailer?

Question

Hi all, in high school I built a little 4x8 all steel utility trailer. Its a fraction of an inch too short to haul a full sheet of anything or 8' lumber, etc. The gate has to come off. Anyway, when I built it I used some galvanized hasps from the hardware store, needless to say these didnt hold up long before they sprung and wont hold the gate securely, its hinged across the bottom, with the hinges at the top. They got sprung hauling a load of gravel and it pushed the sides out just enough to spring the hinges. Does anyone have any ideas on some better latches, and where to get them? I'd really like some automotive type tailgate latches, but simple and ugly will do just fine. I'm thinking maybee pins that slide in short sections of pipe? Thanks for ideas all!

mark

Jim Kovar · Accepted Answer

In article , casteelm6 says..   Anyway, when I   its hinged across the bottom, with the hinges at the top?   I'm trying to visualize this gate, having no luck. Can you explain further?   Anyway, hauling gravel is tough on any little trailer. About 2600 lbs per yard, remember.   Jim Kovar   Vulcan, Mi

Roger Shoaf · Answer

First off since you need to rework the trailer, now is the time to make it long enough to haul 8' goods.

For your hinges why not use a 1" bar attached to the trailer on stand offs and use some pipe with a 1"+ i.d. to attach the gate to it. This way you could pull a couple of pins and remove the tailgate all together and it should be strong enough to survive.

For latches I would consider using the cam latches like they have on the rear door of semi trailers. IIRC these are widely available at truck places and are reasonably cheap. The nice thing about these is they will do a fine job of getting the gate closed if you are at all close, and they are built to last.

Mark Casteel · Answer

DOH!   Sorry to be so confusing, the hinge is across the bottom, with the latches at the top.markmark wrote:

Kevin Beitz · Answer

Go look at a Mule... I like the latches they use... Simple and strong...

Glenn Lyford · Answer

FWIW, 5/8" bolts are usually an OK fit in 1/2" black pipe, you may or may not have to drill them out to remove the welding ridge inside. I've also use 5/8 OD x 1/2" ID oilite flange bushings in same.

HTH, --Glenn Lyford

me · Answer

Why dont you go to the auto wreckers and get alatch system from a truck tailgate.

gate latches for utility trailer?

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