When a business owner specializing in welding and metal processing needs a four-season trailer to work on his sugar bush, expect him to be unhappy with the trailers presently available on the market.
Not because trailer manufacturers are incompetent, but mostly because their offer is basic to stay in competitive price ranges, and their trailers are built with elements that are more used in the design of recreational trailers. As Martin Beaudry, owner of Metaluno puts it: “Looking at what is available on the market, I quickly concluded that regardless of the model, I would have to make modifications for my needs. Whether it is to spread gravel, carry the chopped firewood or remove the dump box to transport the 48 inches timber logs, I can now do it with one single piece of equipment”. And as his daily job is to produce metal design elements such as street furniture or residential stairs, to be limited to a straight rectangular box was out of the question. Especially when we consider that off-road vehicles, even the utility machines, are more and more aesthetic as they evolve. At first glance, the Metaluno Tandem # TT4860 gives an impression of robustness, but it is a real fact.
It is mounted on four large 22 inches tires (optional), and the square 3-inch 3/16-in thick steel frame construction is built strong. I don’t remember seeing such a frame anywhere else. The tandem axle allows a load capacity of 1200 lbs.
The shape of the dump body is distinctive, with a V-shaped profile to better evacuate the materials. It tilts at 45 degrees, with quick coupling and a hoist winch with integrated brake. We tested it and it’s very effective!
The designer wants to focus on the high degree of finish: “Electrostatic painting, bearing mount axial pivot, tailgate panel locks and heavy-gauged steel are some of the points that are part of my design criteria ” says Beaudry.
We took advantage of the trailer to transport the firewood to our cottage and we discovered the benefits of the Metaluno trailer. All parts are oversized and of good quality.
Despite its massive appearance, the operation is very smooth and easy. We feel that there is lots of mechanical engineering behind all that.
The tailgate can be removed to allow faster loading or unloading. The hoist winch is well dimensioned and maneuvers easily without excessive force. The towing boom is long, but it can be removed from the trailer for easy storage. The loading box is huge (48×60) with its 18 in high side panels made of 12- gauge steel. It’s rock solid. And it is possible to add raised side panels as an option.
For the winter, it is also possible to add skis instead of wheels, making it ideal for moving in the snow with a tracked vehicle. The gray paint has been thermally hardened for better durability. The Metaluno trailer is really a good choice for those who work hard. And its price is very reasonable.
At $ 1625.00, including winch and jack, it’s a real bargain, especially considering all the advantages it offers compared to its competitors. Not to mention the innovative engineering and design it brings to the trailer industry.
The company is based on St-Louis Street in St-Cyrille de Wendover in central Quebec. It is advisable to call ahead to make an appointment at (819) 397-4844.
More information on the website www.metaluno.ca.
Tandem trailer specifications TT4860 model:
– 1200 lb. tandem axle bearing load capacity
– 2500 lb lifting winch with brake
– 3×3 in 3/16 inch thick steel frame
– 48×60 loading box with 18 ” high 12-gauge steel sides
– Tilting tailgate with quick coupling for complete removal
– 2×2 steel towing boom bolted for easy transport and storage.
– 1-7/8 in or 2 in coupling.
– Gray electrostatic paint thermally hardened.
Available Options:
– Removable raised side panels
Texte: Francois Cominardi
