Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 8/6/2010

Question
Would like to be able to set down atco trailer leaving three feet of space from building to be able to remove siding.  Then slide trailer up to building.  It is a 10 x 48 foot trailer on skids, triple skids 7 feet wide.  Question, what is best to put trailer on, so that the final slide to main building be permanent.  Thank you for your time.    Kevin

Answer
Hi Kevin, I don't get the triple skids 7 feet wide part.  If the trailer is only ten feet wide that doesn't compute so the skids are running right to left instead of front to back?  Also, why not take the siding off prior to setting the trailer and just set it where it goes?  Most trailers have two steel I beams underneath that the azles are attached to.  The I beams run front to back and the floor joists of the trailer crosses the I beams from right to left.  In order to support the I beams properly you need to have your new foundation cross the I beams from left to right.  So in a normal setting, your beams would protrude out fron the building at right angles allowing you to slide the trailer toward the building.  If the trailer has wheels and axles you would maneuver the trailer alongside the house and then jack it up and support it on piers after you have abutted it to the house.  Also, why take the siding off?  If you only have a doorway or two to connect the trailer to the house why not leave the siding on and just cut out your doors?  Since I don't have much more info to go on this is the best I can answer at this time.  If you would care to elaborate further on exactly how this trailer is built including the undercarriage I can assist you further.  sincerely bruce e johnson