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Project: Trailer Dolly

Main Project Photo for Trailer Dolly

Move your boat, camper, snowmobile, or utility trailer quickly and easily. A trailer dolly is a useful tool for positioning and maneuvering a trailer into tight spots. A long handle reduces the strain on your back.

Creation Time: 2 hrs Skill Level: Beginner Suggested Process: MIG

Materials Needed

  • Shaft, 1 inch (25.4 mm) Pipe cut to 30 inches (762 mm)
  • Handle, 3/4 inch (19 mm) Pipe cut to 10 inches (254 mm)
  • Support, 5/8 inch (15.9 mm) Pipe cut to 7 inches (177.8 mm)
  • Axle*, 3/4 inch (19 mm) Pipe cut to 14-1/2 inches (368.3 mm)
  • Upright, 1 inch (25.4 mm) Pipe cut to 9-1/2 inches (241.3 mm)
  • (2) Wheels, 8 inch (203.2 mm)
  • (4) Washers, 1-1/2 inch (38.1 mm)
  • (2) Cotter Pins, 2 inches (50.8 mm)
  • Trailer Ball
  • Paint

* Size axle to wheels.

Examine dimensions and materials before you start. Most dimensions can be tailored to fit your exact needs.

Tools Needed

  • Square
  • Grinder
  • Drill and Drill Bits
  • Vise
  • MIG Welder, such as the Millermatic 210
  • Safety Apparel
 
Click to Enlarge Image
1. Cut pipe to size according to material list. If necessary, use grinder to remove burrs or sharp edges from pieces.
2. Drill holes in both ends of Axle for cotter pins.
3. Put wheel assembly together. Slide one washer, wheel, and another washer to each end of the axle. Install cotter pins. Allow room for wheel rotation and mark the location of the inside washer on each end of the axle. Take apart the wheel assembly.
4. Weld one washer to the Axle at each of the marked locations.
5. Flatten both ends of Shaft to minimize the size of the gap in the weld joint.
6. Weld Handle to one end of Shaft. Pay close attention to ensure it is square.
7. Weld the other end of the Shaft to the center of the Axle. Pay close attention to ensure it is square.
8. Flatten one end of Upright and both ends of the Support to minimize the size of the gap in the weld joints.
9. Tack weld the flattened end of Upright to Axle. Upright should be positioned next to and at a 45 degree angle to Shaft. Position Support between upright and shaft. Adjust as necessary and tack weld into place. If everything is square, complete all welds.
10. Insert Trailer Ball into Upright and weld into place.
11. Brush welds smooth and paint if desired.  
12. Put wheel assembly together. Slide wheel and another washer to each end of the Axle. Secure wheels in place with cotter pins by bending both legs of cotter pin around the axle in one direction or by bending one leg clockwise and the other leg counterclockwise. Legs should conform to contour of axle as tightly as possible.

WARNING Safety is the primary concern on any project. Always use tools and equipment in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. For Miller products, refer to your Owner's Manual for complete safety precautions and procedures.

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