Advice when viewing a horsebox

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JanS18

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Hi all, I'm looking to buy a 3.5t horsebox. I've checked the popular places (HorseQuest, Moving Manes, and Horsemart) and have come across a few I like. However, before I commit to viewing any I'd love some advice on what to look out for. All but one of the boxes are being sold be a dealer. Thanks
 
When considering a lorry purchase you need to divide your very close inspection into three parts.
1. As stated above, what is the payload. 3.5 tonne boxes have quite a limited payload. If they are strong and well built they have a lower payload. fine if you are only carrying one horse.
2.The mechanical side of things. Mileage, has it been serviced regularly, which chassis is it? Do a search for Fiat?/Renault etc vans and look for common problems. Is the chassis rust free, how old are the tyres (panel on the side wall), does it look cared for?
3. The horse section. as above, lift the mats, check the floor, poke the floor from underneath with a screwdriver or, at least, tap it with a hammer, you will hear if there are 'soft spots'. Is there a solid bulkhead at the back or is the rear door big enough to get a horse through if it goes over the breast bar. What state is the ramp in, are the hinges solid or rusty. Bounce up and down on the ramp, if it flexes walk away or factor in replacement with your price offer.
 
phizz4 said:
When considering a lorry purchase you need to divide your very close inspection into three parts.
1. As stated above, what is the payload. 3.5 tonne boxes have quite a limited payload. If they are strong and well built they have a lower payload. fine if you are only carrying one horse.
2.The mechanical side of things. Mileage, has it been serviced regularly, which chassis is it? Do a search for Fiat?/Renault etc vans and look for common problems. Is the chassis rust free, how old are the tyres (panel on the side wall), does it look cared for?
3. The horse section. as above, lift the mats, check the floor, poke the floor from underneath with a screwdriver or, at least, tap it with a hammer, you will hear if there are 'soft spots'. Is there a solid bulkhead at the back or is the rear door big enough to get a horse through if it goes over the breast bar. What state is the ramp in, are the hinges solid or rusty. Bounce up and down on the ramp, if it flexes walk away or factor in replacement with your price offer.
Click to expand...
Agree with this but also would say it is very important to make sure there is sufficient strength between horse's ass and passengers/driver in the cab!
 
JanS18 said:
Hi all, I'm looking to buy a 3.5t horsebox. I've checked the popular places (HorseQuest, Moving Manes, and Horsemart) and have come across a few I like. However, before I commit to viewing any I'd love some advice on what to look out for. All but one of the boxes are being sold be a dealer. Thanks
Click to expand...
my go too


You need to think about: Phase 1.
  • can you aford the vehicle and the up keep
  • for trailers do you have the right towing vehicle
  • have you towed before? you might need lessons
  • How many horses you will be transporting check payload
  • what does your driving licence allow you to drive
  • Have you got a good mechanic to keep it well maintained and tested.
  • older boxes / trailers will require more more and parts are harder to find and can be more expensive
  • does your horse travel better herringbone - forward facing or rear facing
  • what type of living do you need day or night
  • have you got safe storage for the vehicle.
  • you need to be aware of insurance costs depending on size / weight
  • what security are you planing ( steering lock -tracker-wheel clamp.)
  • make sure your happy with diesel not petrol as they are expensive to run

Before you buy your trailer/ vehicle Phase 2​

  • you need to go out and drive a few first before you seriously looking ( unless one suitable comes up )
  • check vehicle for damp area : ( under chassis - horse body )
  • walk round vehicle make more of any defects
  • check tyres for un even wear or bald spots
  • does it look like vehicle has been used or is there grass growing round it like stored for along time.
  • check cab for rust
  • check cap inside for holes in floor
  • check body outside for damage take particular attention round the ramps for rust and worn out springs
  • have a good look under the body for damage
  • check the ramp for damage and if it goes up and down easy
  • check the gates make sure they are in working order no damage
  • inside the horse area check partitions for damage and opening and closing
  • trailers check electrics and the towing bar which connects to car for damage
  • check round the edge inside for rotten areas I recommend these by banging round the floor they will show you weak spots
Picture

gr8 for testing horsebox/trailer floor
  • stand in the back of horse area legs apart and see how stable box is by trying to rock vehicle from side to side this will tell you how horse will find it in high winds.
  • check the ceiling for leaks and damp spots
  • check jockey door from horse area to living
  • check the living area lights cupboards for any damage ask if any of the appliances work or not.
  • check lights
Test drive Phase 3
  • If you have checked all the above and find nothing to put you off
  • in the cab check to see if any lights remain on
  • check lights work indicators etc
  • test drive ( note any warning signs that remain on )
  • check how easy the gear change is
  • check if vehicle pulls to right or left when you drive or brake this means wheels are out of alignment or other reason
  • does it drive well
  • does it feel heavy on the straight or corners
  • does it pull away from stand still ok or is it sluggish
  • how easy is it top maneuver sharp turns or backing to turn round
  • is it quite nippy
  • if slow when empty it will be slower when loaded depending on size of horse(s)
  • ask friend or owner to drive box(trailer) and stand in the horse area and see what sort of ride this will give your horse

Mechanic Phase 4​

  • If your still happy with all of the above arrange for your mechanic to go test drive and give it the once over
  • report to him any findings you have found on the vehicle or driving
  • if mechanic is happy but found some issues talk to horsebox seller and see if they will rectify serious issues or will come down in price.
  • once happy you should have a safe horsebox and one you can enjoy

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