M871 Semi Trailer for hauling scrap metal? How strong are stake sides?

[ichudov]

Hi guys, some of you may remember me, I created a website liberatedmanuals.com a few years ago.

I have a "surplus business" and I mostly buy and sell industrial equipment. A part of that is that I buy scrap metal and scrap machines.

I have a semi truck and a couple of semi trailers.

I am looking for a gondola type trailer and set my eye on some M871 trailers with removable stake sides.

http://www.fontainemilitary.com/images/military_products_16reset_m871.jpg

Those are 28 foot long flatbed semi trailers and they come with stake sides. Supposed to use for "breakbulk" transportation, like cartons and barrels. But how strong are the stake sides? What are they made of?

Thanks

 

[NDT]

The stake sides are 1/2 plywood and are a bit of a joke. Loading the trailer with loose material such as scrap metal would destroy the sides instantly.

 

[Derrickl112]

I have a nice m871R for sale.