Q What is the advantage to a screwless trailer body, as compared to one with screws (or rivets) holding the panels together?

A There are many advantages and no real disadvantages. H&H started out building smooth, screw-free sides on our trailers and we ain't changin' anytime soon. Bonding the sheets of an enclosed trailer together creates a water-tight seal (which screws don't), allows the panel to shift and move slightly without coming undone (which screws can't). Also, it allows for panels to grow and shrink as surface temperatures rise and fall, and actually isolates noise, which makes the trailer quieter (for those who are shopping for a nice horse trailer, this is something to keep in mind - your race car could probably care less). Shown here is a red H&H with bonded, rivet-less sides, as well as a black riveted unit from another manufacturer.
         
Q I'm getting a new truck and I see that many companies are offering built-in brake controllers with the new models. Are these factory units that much better than adding one on myself?

A Though I have no definite proof one way or the other, I would imagine that the technology in a new OEM trailer brake controller that is integrated into the electrical and braking systems of a $50,000 dually might just be a little more up-to-date than a $79 brake controller from your local auto parts store. If you have the choice of getting a new truck with the controller built-in or not, I would choose to go ahead and let the factory install it for you. Besides, it sure couldn't hurt. Regardless, when you're going to tow any trailer that weighs 3,000 pounds (or more), get one with brakes and make sure you have a properly operating brake controller in the tow vehicle. You could save a life, and that life could very well be yours.

Q Craig, in California, I'm told it's not legal to pull a trailer faster than 55 mph, regardless of the posted speed limit. Is that the same in all states?

A Nope, and frankly I think it's about the stupidest law I've ever heard of. A 1-ton dually pulling a 5 x 8 open trailer could run at the posted speed limit and NEVER have a problem, yet in California, anything above 55 earns you a ticket (and a trip to traffic school). If you are in California and want to help change that law, I hear the National Federation of Trailer Retailers is gathering up membership donations to get that law changed in California. If you would like more info on what they are doing, check out their site at www.nftr.org.  DR