Outrigger

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Cargo trailer walls are attached to the frame or to outriggers

When a cargo trailer needs to be wider than the frame, short pieces of metal are welded to the ends of the crossmembers on each side of the trailer. Many trailer manufacturers use outriggers instead of widening the main frame.

The metal used for outriggers can be thin and must be cut to short lengths before they are attached. This takes more time and work than just widening the frame.

Most importantly, walls are much more stable and secure if they are welded to the heavy trailer frame metal than they are if welded to an outrigger.

Many factories choose to build their trailers with outriggers. Some only use them on certain size trailers.

If outriggers are not attached properly, the trailer walls can sag or even come apart at the bottom and bow out from the trailer.

 

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