How to Repair a Sheet Metal Horse Trailer

Rust is one of the most common problems that occurs as horse trailers age and are exposed the the elements. Rust can weaken the overall structure of the trailer and even ultimately render the trailer unusable if it is not repaired.

Things You'll Need

  • Sheet metal
  • Welder
  • Protective clothing, including safety mask and gloves
  • Sandblaster and sandpaper
  • Grinder
  • Saw with metal cutting blade or cutting torch
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Instructions

  1. Repairing a Sheet Metal Horse Trailer

    • 1

      Assess all damage on the trailer and make note of where repairs are needed. Measure areas needing repair in order to get an accurate estimate of how much sheet metal you will need in order to repair all areas.

      Make sure to measure an inch or two larger than your damage areas in order to allow for the new metal to overlap the existing metal.

    • 2

      Remove the paint and rust by sandblasting the trailer. Sand down all rough or ragged edges. In cases of severe damage or rust, you will want to cut away damage using either a saw with a metal cutting blade or a cutting torch.

      It is important to completely remove rust before attempting to weld new metal on to the trailer, as it can affect your repairs.

    • 3

      Cut replacement sheet metal to fit damaged areas on your trailer.

    • 4

      Weld new metal to the trailer, completely covering the damaged areas with new metal. Make sure the edges, or seams, of your weld are as smooth as possible. Grind down any rough edges. Wait for welds to cool down.

    • 5

      Repaint trailer, using rust or corrosion resistant paint to help prevent new rust damage.