In most cases, a V-nose trailer will yield higher mileage than a flat-nose trailer due to the increased air deflection. In comparison to a flat nose trailer, the angles on the nose of the trailer lead it to be blown around slightly more in strong winds, as they force the trailer horizontally rather than backward.
All trailers, even those with a more aerodynamic shape, will experience trailer sway. Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid the side winds and passing trucks, which will press the trailer’s side against the wall. Additionally, it will sway when driving on bumpy roads or when doing an emergency maneuver.
This article discusses the features of both the V nose and flat nose trailers in detail. Also, you’ll find the most frequently asked questions and associated discussions. This will assist you in getting a greater understanding and grasping all of the relevant information. Keenly read the article, following each guideline.
Table of Contents
Is it true that v-nose trailers tow the best?
According to trailer salespeople, there is a bit of a myth around it. V-nose trailers are considered to be more aerodynamic than flat-fronted trailers and to wobble less at high speeds. Travel trailers look to be gaining popularity as manufacturers utilize every trick in the book to squeeze more capacity into a smaller footprint.
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How a good trailer design is
If given the chance, we would design a teardrop-shaped trailer. However, it is a bad choice in terms of internal space. Certain manufacturers, including Airstream and Earthbound, as well as Galileo and a few others, employ an angular front end that resembles the front end of a teardrop. This is the most aerodynamic design presently available, and it is also the most viable in terms of internal space optimization.
All trailers, even the ones with a more aerodynamic shape, will experience trailer sway. Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid the side winds and approaching trucks, which will press against the trailer’s side against. Moreover, it will sway when driving on rough roads or when doing an emergency maneuver.
Does the V-nose trailer make a difference?
I can certainly tell the difference between my V nose and my previous flat nose trailers at the pump, but my recent trailer is also a foot shorter in height than the previous one, in addition to being a V nose. It gets about two more miles per gallon with the V-nose. The majority of that distinction is due to the height differential, which has a significant effect on drag.
The advantages of a V-nose trailer
With that considered, I cannot dismiss the V-nose as a transitory fad or a bad design. The added space provided by these designs may more than offset the reduced towing capacity. The configuration of the front kitchen provides a surplus (well, perhaps not that much), and additional surface space. Any extra square foot is well worth the trade-off in an era where trailers are growing increasingly tiny.
How to get rid of trailer sways
Without a doubt, trailer sway is a severe issue that contributes to hundreds of accidents each year. While a robust sway control hitch is essential for any trailer, it is preferred to eliminate sway. When you’re at an RV exhibition or dealer, be sure to check out the available v-nose choices. If you want the highest potential fuel efficiency, a round-nose vehicle is a preferable choice.
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How to determine the width, length, and height of a V-nose and a flat-nose trailer
The most frequently asked question when determining the size of a trailer is its length. On the exterior rectangle area of the trailer, the width and length are measured in line with industry standards.
For example, a 6x12sa trailer is 6′ broad by 12′ long and contains a single axle. If a trailer has a V-nose, it is considered an additional room, and the amount of extra space varies between a few inches and several feet, depending on the type and extended tongue option.
While the height of the trailer is normally determined by the trailer’s size, it is possible to attach or reduce height as needed. A 5-wide trailer has a height of 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, and 8.5 feet wide (car haulers) has a height of 6 feet, 6 inches.
Additionally, keep in mind that this is an outside measurement; the interior is significantly shorter and may have impediments such as supports or cross participant studs, dome lights, and potentially ceiling liners.
Dimensions of doors and trailer openings
Side-entry trailers are typically offered in three widths: 24 inches, 30 inches, and 36 inches “, 32″, and 36″, depending on the size and weight of the trailer. Car transporters (8.5′ wide) usually include step-wells due to the trailer’s structure being made of 6″ to 8” I-beams or channel, which raises the trailer off the ground.
Optional features include wider doors, rear doors, bay doors, escape doors, concessions windows, and front and side ramps. Typically, the top and sides of the back Barn Door(s) or Ramp are 6″ to 7″ wide to form a frame against which the door(s) can close.
For instance, an 8.5-foot-wide car transporter will have around six inches on each side, culminating in an aperture that is closer to 7 feet and six inches wide. Numerous car carriers feature a “no-show” 4′ Beaver Tail, where the interior of the trailer slopes down a few inches and meets the ramp.
As a result of this feature, cars with a low profile and low clearance will not bottom out when entering the trailer. This alteration increases the height of the trailer’s opening by a couple of inches. Truck trailers up to and including the 8.5x16ta are typically 6′-6″ in length “terms of height.
With the 6″ drop from the roof prior to the opening, this leaves approximately a 6′-0″ opening for accessing the trailer’s rear; however, due to the Beavertail, there are a couple of additional inches available for entering the trailer’s rear.
A Beavertail is not desirable for some concession-style trailers and some equipment trailers since the floor slopes downward for approximately 4′ at the rear of the trailer, making it difficult to level equipment.
Load capability of the trailer
The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of a trailer establishes the maximum weight that it can carry when fully loaded. Numerous factors might affect load distribution, hence restricting the amount of weight that can be packed into the trailer; nevertheless, a fundamental general rule is that if the trailer has (2) 3,500 lb. axles, the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the trailer is 7000 lb.
When the weight of the trailers is subtracted from the overall weight of the trailers, the load capacity is determined. If you need to transport a greater weight, you may always expand the axle capacity.
If your cargo has a small footprint and will not be scattered across a vast area, you can minimize the distance between the solid lines of the cross member pillars beneath the floor to fit the smaller footprint. Torsion axles may be preferable over leaf springs if you intend to travel off-road or on bumpy roads since they provide a comfortable ride and easier handling.
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The tongue load
The amount of weight transmitted by your trailer to your hitch is displayed here in pounds. The most widely accepted estimates range from 9 to 15% of the loaded trailer weight, with 10% being the most frequently used amount. For instance, if you have an 1800 lb. truck and load it with 1000 lb. of merchandise, the combined weight of the trailer and cargo is 2800 lb.
Bear in mind that this figure is subject to a variety of circumstances, including whether the trailer is loaded from the front or the back. There are numerous methods available on the internet for determining this.
The length of the truck bed
If you’re considering acquiring a gooseneck trailer, it’s vital to consider the length of your vehicle’s bed. A bed length of eight feet is recommended to allow sufficient space between the trailer and the truck’s cab.
Individuals sometimes acquire trailers without considering whether their truck has a short bed, a spare fuel tank, or an extended cab. You should contact your sales agent if you have any special questions.
What is a soft v nose trailer?
V-nose cargo trailers have the same enclosed design as standard enclosed trailers but have a V-shaped front instead of a flat one. This one-of-a-kind modification increases gas mileage and simplifies towing, making it an excellent choice for both personal and corporate use.
Conclusion
As said earlier, there is a bit of a myth among various salespeople. V-nose trailers are said to be more aerodynamic than flat-fronted trailers, which results in a decreased tendency to sway. Travel trailers look to be gaining popularity as manufacturers utilize every trick in the book to squeeze more capacity into a smaller footprint.
A V-shaped pattern has no effect on turbulence. Indeed, it exacerbates the problem. – Instead of blowing away from the trailer, the wind is now pushing on two of its sides.
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