Trailers - anyone with IW or Bateson?

[Maria]

I've been doing a bit of research and it seems there are some who are not overly impressed with the new Ifor Williams trailers. There was a recall to do with the roof not being properly finished. Someone I know has also said that the old model IWs are better. :confused:

Last night I read up about Bateson trailers, they seem a little less popular and a little more expensive but I've heard mostly good reviews on them. It could be coincidence but people seems happier with the Batesons - smoother ride and more light and airy than a IW. Apparently they're just as good to resell too and hold their value well.

And pics, advice, please help! :)

[Bay Chaos]

Well I have a new Ifor williams and I love it!

To be honest, I'm not sure why people don't like them. They have taken the best features off of other designs and incorporated them into this trailer.

It is very light and airy inside, with features such as sliding windows makes it much more comfortable for the horse.

My horses travel well in it. Don't know what else to add really.

[Spockky boy]

Im another for IforWilliams. My Horse travels well in these trailers.

[Maria]

Apparently there have been problems with the roof going mouldy, hinges and tack boxes/groom door problems. I am really torn about the IW because I was fairly sure that I wanted to go for a 506.

[CityLights]

i think its the bateson that do the half doors at the back with the slide out ramp, at first i really liked them but after using one at work i hate them, the ramp is a real pain to slide in and out and the back doors are secured really badly and dont trust them to stay closed especially if you have a horse that sits on the back wall


other than that they are nice trailers but definately get the one with a traditional ramp rather than the doors

[Bay Chaos]

I think the mould problem was with the first 506's. Mine seems ok at the moment. My jockey door lock was stiff at first, but I took it back to ifor and they got it sorted out straight away. No problems at all with the hinges and I don't have a tack box... I just stick it in the boot of the car!!!

I use my trailer 2 or 3 times a week, and absolutly love it!

[Maria]

Thanks, I appreciate the feedback, I've got a feeling I'll go with an IW new model. I'll be going to look at one 'in the flesh' soon... I need to think about getting a single or double - I think it'll likely be a double. But a light, single trailer could give me the option to tow without taking the towing test. Decisions, decisions!

[Houndsfield]

I've has 3 IW's..... that's how much I love them!!! Two 505's then moved up to a 510 when we bought first horse.... would die for a brand new model again...!!!

[beks the artist]

I have one of the first Ifor Williams Trailers (506 model) and we have had a broken jockey wheel, the plug came out while we were driving it and the electrics died and mold inside on the white bits. It has been used 10 times in the 2 years we have owned it (bought it from the main Ifor Williams Depot in Corwen, North Wales, brand new). Other than that (and when my OH jack-knifed it the first time out and the landrover came off better... *rolls eyes*) it is a really good box, light, easy to use.

[menaimiss]

Whatever the model, I prefer trailers that have the front ramp on the left hand side...so much safer if having to unload in an emergency.

If the worst should happen and the ponies had to be unloaded on say a motorway...it would be terrifying to get them out onto the carriageway rather than the hardshoulder...thats why I prefer my tatty and rather battered (but quite servicable) Sinclair

[Bay Chaos]

Whatever the model, I prefer trailers that have the front ramp on the left hand side...so much safer if having to unload in an emergency.

If the worst should happen and the ponies had to be unloaded on say a motorway...it would be terrifying to get them out onto the carriageway rather than the hardshoulder...thats why I prefer my tatty and rather battered (but quite servicable) Sinclair

On the new model Ifor williams trailers you can chose which side to have the front ramp. I have mine on the left for the exact reasons you mention.

[menaimiss]

Oh Thanks for that, thats helpful to know...as I'm hoping to get a new trailer this year..it's the issue with the ramp that s been putting me off :)

[Smurf]

I have an IW and love it!