Horse box conversion advice

rjbrads

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Looking to move a 3.5t Horsebox rather than trailer (had one years ago). Thinking of buying the base vehicle myself and getting converted which is what I did last time as it worked out much cheaper and was able to get a much newer vehicle for the money. My last one was a lab Renault master converted. Wondering if people have done this and what vehicles they found best to buy for conversion in terms
Of reliability and able to take two horses. This time I would like to hve a box type van conversion if that’s the right word. Also any suggestions on who they used to convert. NotLooking for super luxury expensive. Just basic good quality safe. With option to add on extras depending on prices etc.
 

The Xmas Furry

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Looking to move a 3.5t Horsebox rather than trailer (had one years ago). Thinking of buying the base vehicle myself and getting converted which is what I did last time as it worked out much cheaper and was able to get a much newer vehicle for the money. My last one was a lab Renault master converted. Wondering if people have done this and what vehicles they found best to buy for conversion in terms
Of reliability and able to take two horses. This time I would like to hve a box type van conversion if that’s the right word. Also any suggestions on who they used to convert. NotLooking for super luxury expensive. Just basic good quality safe. With option to add on extras depending on prices etc.
You will not legally be able to transport 2 horses in any 3.5t due to weight issues.
 

rjbrads

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You will not legally be able to transport 2 horses in any 3.5t due to weight issues.

Ok won’t actually be two horses in reality. Just one small horse and a Small pony But you get the rough idea. Not stalled for one. Know the law Side of things. Just need the practical advice.
 

rjbrads

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A Renault Master Chassis Pan Cab is your best option due to the low centre of gravity of them.

Building a safe container on it will require a reputable builder.

Which area of the country are you in?

Thanks. In Oxfordshire. Yes will need someone professional to do. Just doesn’t need to be luxury conversion with bespoke paint job etc etc.
 

Trouper

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Just think about the height of the floor from the deck for a conversation and the steepness of the ramp that would be needed. Saw a DPD vehicle converted once - almost needed grappling gear to get up the ramp.
 

Spottyappy

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Mine has a payload of 1200kg with half a tank of fuel, and the tack etc we carry. So, even if I take my big one at 600kg, I can still legally take one of the cobs, who weight c400-450kg, plus 2 of us.
PM me if you want to know about the build.
 

mutley75

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Mine has a payload of 1200kg with half a tank of fuel, and the tack etc we carry. So, even if I take my big one at 600kg, I can still legally take one of the cobs, who weight c400-450kg, plus 2 of us.
PM me if you want to know about the build.
The largest payload of any panel van on the market at the moment is the Fiat ducato short wheel base low roof at 1,665 kg. As this is on the dealers spec sheet that will be based on minimal fuel. I do wonder how converters manage to make a high roof, safe Horsebox from materials weighing no more than 450 kg. It just doesn’t sit right.
 

Spottyappy

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The largest payload of any panel van on the market at the moment is the Fiat ducato short wheel base low roof at 1,665 kg. As this is on the dealers spec sheet that will be based on minimal fuel. I do wonder how converters manage to make a high roof, safe Horsebox from materials weighing no more than 450 kg. It just doesn’t sit right.
I’m not a builder,nor an expert, but I assume the materials they use are lighter.
safety was also one of my main criteria as i down sized from a 7.5t.
 
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