Need drop deck trailer instructions? Struggling to get it lifted or lowered? This simple, step-by-step guide is here to help.
Want a quick visual overview? The video below shows the basic process. Use it alongside the step-by-step instructions below and your current Good Trailer Owner’s Manual.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Park & Chock
Park on a safe, level surface. Be sure to check and inspect around and underneath the trailer. Add wheel chocks to keep the trailer secure.
Step 2: Unhitch the Trailer
With the wheels chocked, disconnect the electrical connector, breakaway lanyard, and safety chains; unlock the coupler and use the tongue jack to support the trailer as you uncouple. Move the tow vehicle completely clear before continuing.
Then, turn the jack and lower it with the hand crank.
Step 3: Turn On the Remote
Select either your wireless or corded remote. Turn on the wired remote by turning the red knob clockwise. Turn on the wireless remote by pushing the on/off button. Raise the trailer slightly.
Step 4: Unlock the Toggle Clamps
Raise and secure all fender panels before lowering the trailer. The wheels retract during the lowering process, so the panels must be out of the way. There are no fender panels on a flatbed.
Next, raise each toggle clamp, pull the cylinder lock forward, and secure it to the toggle clamp. Repeat at every wheel before operating the hydraulic system.
Step 5: Lower
Begin by lowering the front of the trailer. Then alternate between the front and rear hydraulic systems for a slow, controlled descent. Always keep the front of the trailer at or below the height of the rear.
Continue until the trailer is fully lowered and the wheels are raised clear of the ground. Once the trailer is stable in its loading position, press the stop button on the wired remote or the off button on the wireless remote.
Once the trailer is on the ground, press the stop button on the wired remote or the off button on the wireless remote.
Now you’re ready to load!
Once you’ve loaded, be sure to secure all your gear.
What About Raising the Trailer?
Raising follows the same general principles.
First, secure the cargo. Close and lock any doors, and raise and lock the rear ramp before lifting the trailer.
Begin by raising the rear of the trailer, then alternate between the rear and front hydraulic systems while keeping the front at or below the height of the rear.
Once the trailer is fully raised, lock the toggle clamps into their transport position. Lower and secure the fender panels, return the front piston and foot to their travel position, turn off and stow the remote, and reconnect the tow vehicle.
Complete your normal pre-tow inspection before leaving.
FAQ
How long does the process take?
We haven’t timed it with a stopwatch, but we’ve observed it. These are ballpark observations from our own experienced crew, not a guaranteed cycle time.
Roughly 1 minute to unhitch, chock, and make sure the area is clear.
Roughly 1 minute to prep the trailer for lowering.
Roughly 1 minute to lower.
For a straightforward drive-on load such as a compatible mini excavator, we’ve observed loading itself taking roughly a minute. Other cargo may take considerably longer.
Roughly 1 minute to prep the trailer for raising.
Roughly 1 minute to raise it.
Roughly 1 minute to hitch up.
There will be variances in everyone’s process. We handle these trailers every day. It’s second nature to us. You might need a little more time to get through the process.
Is a drop deck trailer really easier and faster if I have to hitch and unhitch every time?
We think it can be, depending on your workflow. If the alternative involves deploying removable ramps, aligning tracked or wheeled equipment with narrower loading surfaces, or negotiating a steeper approach, the extra time spent unhitching and reconnecting may be offset by a simpler loading process.
Where can I get additional help with my Good Trailer?
Call (360) 889-9789. We’ll work with you!
Load Low, Haul Good
Ready to bring drop deck power to your fleet? Find your nearest dealer or contact us today!
See also:
Does GoodMFG® Make Durable Trailers?
The Top 4 Advantages of Trailers that Lower to the Ground
This resource was compiled by the GoodMFG® Product Team, drawing on 75 years of combined experience in hydraulic systems, heavy-duty transport, trailers, and modular structures.
P.S. – We build trailers every day, but we don’t run your crews. If there’s a specific logistical headache or a “field reality” we’ve missed, we want to hear about it. Help us refine the equipment that makes your day easier! Email our Marketing Lead at devan-h @ goodrv.com and let us know what we should solve next.
