Happy New Year!

All of us at Burdette Brothers wanted to take a moment to thank our clients for another successful year. We wish you and your families a very Happy New Year! We look forward to serving you again in 2015, also including our new line of trailers... Cornpro!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!!

Here in Maryland, Burdette Brothers wants to wish everyone a Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays! We are proud to serve Maryland for over 75 years and look forward to continuing to serve you all in the new year! Thanks for trusting us with all of your trailer and auto needs!

Looking for that perfect Christmas gift? These trailers MUST GO!

We have a few trailers on the lot that absolutely need to go ASAP to make room for the new 2015 inventory! These are incredible deals on really nice trailers so be sure to check them out and pass the word along to anyone you may know who is looking!

The first one is a 2013 Featherlite Model 9810 stock number 517t.  This trailer is perfect for that trainer looking to be able to haul more horses to competitions. The Price is reduced to only $48,500!

Next up is a 2013 Featherlite Model 8533, stock number 603t. This is a 3-horse trailer with living quarters. This trailer is perfect for those that travel with their horses either for competitions or pleasure. Priced at only $41,575 this luxury trailer is a steal!

Third is a 2014 Featherlite model 9607, stock number 664t. This beautiful straight load trailer has custom burgundy and silver detailing and is ready to go! Priced at $32,900 you must come see this one!

Up next is a 2012 Featherlite Model 9607, stock number 303t. This beautiful trailer is still shiny new and perfect for someone with only one or two horses. Priced at a mere $17,200, you can't pass this deal up!

Last but certainly not least is a 2012 Featherlite Model 9607, stock number 294t. This gorgeous trailer is ready to go to it's new home and be put to use! You are sure to look great arriving in this shiny trailer. Priced well below dealer costs at $17,500 this trailer is an absolute must! Be sure to come see it today!

Winter-Hauling How-To Tips

Winter-Hauling How-To Tips

BY REBECCA GIMENEZ PHD

You can haul your horse all year long, even in the dead of winter, as long as you do so safely. Learn how to ready your rig for winter hauling.


Before you leave, check all lights on your towing vehicle and trailer. Replace any non-functioning lights.

You can haul your horse all year long, even in the dead of winter, as long as you do so safely. Here, I'll first tell you how to ready your rig for winter hauling. Then I'll go over how to help keep your equine friend comfortable when you haul him in winter conditions. Finally, I'll give you six ways to ease trailer-loading in snow and ice.

Ready Your Rig

Before you set out with your horse in tow, you need to ready your rig for winter conditions. Here's how.

Apply reflective decals. Apply extra reflective decals on the back and sides of your trailer, so that other drivers can see your rig in poor conditions. One good source for trailer decals is Caution Horses Safety Products.

Invest in good tires. Invest in quality tires for your entire rig. Check tire pressure before every trip; comply with the manufacturer's recommendations.

Check all lights. Recruit an assistant to help you check all lights on your towing vehicle and trailer. Replace any non-functioning lights.

Carry chains. Keep quality chains handy if snow and ice are significant enough to use them. Check your state's chain requirements. Generally, if you have to chain up the drive axle of your towing vehicle, you should have chains on the trailer as well.

Top off the fuel tank. And don't let your fuel tank get below a half-tank. If you'll be driving in remote areas, carry extra fuel.

Top off the windshield-wiper fluid. And make sure the windshield wipers are working. Place a long-handled windshield scraper in your vehicle.

Comply with local brake laws. Every state has its own laws related to trailer brakes. To find out the laws in your state, consult AAA's website.

Turn off the Jake brake. Engine brakes are wonderful for towing vehicles -- they do a fantastic job slowing the rig to minimize brake wear under dry conditions. But a diesel engine's compression-release engine brake (also referred to by the brand name Jacob's brake, or Jake brake) can lead to a jackknife if used in slick road conditions, since they slow your towing vehicle first.

Sync the brakes. Make sure the trailer brakes complement the brakes of your towing vehicle. When you're on a steep downhill in slick conditions, you might need to slow the trailer with brakes greater than your vehicle's brakes.


Consult the manufacturer's instructions. Generally, brakes are best set on dry, flat ground at a slow speed and need to be adjusted for the load. Position the electronic brake so you can manually engage it via the thumb control.

Turn off cruise control. If you get into a slide, the precious second or two that it takes to turn off the cruise control may doom your chances of maintaining control.

Weight your towing vehicle. If you'll be towing an empty trailer, note that it'll jackknife more easily than a loaded one. For better control, place concrete blocks or bags of sand into the back of your truck to add weight over the rear axle.


Pack cold-weather gear. For the horses, pack extra hay and at least 10 gallons of water (non-frozen). For you, carry a cell phone with charger, emergency blankets, jackets, high-energy snack foods, and a thermos of hot drink, in case your towing vehicle or trailer breaks down and you need to wait roadside for help.

Keep Him Comfortable

Here's how to help keep your horse comfortable while hauling him in the winter.


Invest in quality tires for your entire rig. Check tire pressure before every trip; comply with the manufacturer.

Provide good-quality hay. Even in really cold weather, horses create more heat than you think they do. The best way to keep your horse warm in the trailer is to provide good-quality hay.

Watch over-blanketing. It's easy to over-blanket your horse. Most trailers are poorly ventilated, so they tend to get very warm with body heat, even in below-freezing temperatures. A light sheet or blanket is sufficient for most horses.

Apply leg protection. Apply leg protection, such as polo wraps or shipping boots. In winter, it's especially important to protect your horse's precious lower legs from slips and kicks.

Increase ventilation. Humidity and condensation buildup from your horse's breath can cause respiratory illness. Improve the indirect ventilation in your trailer to counteract this risk.

Avoid drafts. That said, make sure that there are no direct drafts hitting your horse, especially on his face and eyes. Freezing-cold temperatures with wind can result in damaged corneas from frostbite.

Monitor your horse. On the road, check your horse frequently. If there's sweat under the blanket, he's cooking inside. If he's clipped and lacks natural insulation, carefully monitor him for sweat or shivering.

Trailer-Loading Tips 

Here are six ways to ease trailer-loading in snow and ice.
Train your horse. Prior preparation and good training are important to make sure your horse is a good loader; if he rushes in or out, he can easily slip.

Wear good boots. Slipping, falling or breaking a limb is really a downer on your planned trip. Find good-quality boots that will keep your feet warm, protect your feet, and provide good traction.

Lay in supplies. Keep sand/shavings/salt and a broom/shovel in the trailer so that if you must load in icy conditions, you can minimize the chance of injury.

Find traction. Park so that the trailer's ramp is positioned on the best traction you can find. Dirt is preferred, but snow is better than ice or asphalt.

Check the trailer stalls. Check the inside of the trailer. Frozen urine and manure are slippery. A fall inside the trailer can lead to serious injury and even death.

Create an inviting environment. Put fresh hay in the bags and a little grain in the manger. Open the doors and windows, so there's plenty of light. The more inviting you make the trailer's interior, the more likely your horse will feel confident enough to step in.



Rebecca Gimenez, PhD (animal physiology), is a primary instructor for Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue. A Major in the United States Army Reserve, she's a decorated Iraq War veteran and a past Logistics Officer for VMAT-2. She's an invited lecturer on animal-rescue topics around the world and is a noted equine journalist.
- See more at: http://trailridermag.com/article/how-to-prep-for-hauling-your-horse-in-the-winter-18783#sthash.qk15lywm.dpuf

BIG Announcement for 2015!!

We are excited to announce that coming in 2015, we will be carrying a new line of steel trailers... CornPro!  Stay tuned to find out more details as we get our inventory!

New or Used: What Should I Do? Advantages to New and Used Cars

New or Used: What Should I Do?

By Cars.com Staff, Cars.com

Many car purchases start with one decision: New or used? It's hard to remember a better time to buy either. There are plenty of good vehicles out there either way.

In the end, the decision to buy new or used boils down to what you can afford and what will give you peace of mind.

If you're on a tight budget, then buying a used car gets you the most vehicle for the money. You can count on one hand the number of new cars that list for less than $12,000. For less than half the price of the average new car, you can buy a 3- or 4-year-old used vehicle that is larger and loaded with more features than a small, bare-bones new one. But buying a used vehicle has its own risks, which could cost you over the life of the vehicle. The fact is, you are buying a vehicle that someone else has owned and driven. You don't know how it's been driven or how well it's been cared for. A used vehicle will almost certainly require maintenance and possibly expensive repairs sooner than a new one, and those repairs probably won't be covered by a warranty.

The Case for Buying New

For some people, buying used isn't an option; they want a brand-spanking-new car. They want to select the color and the features in it. There's definitely a pride of ownership and peace of mind in being a vehicle's first owner. Some other advantages include:

Reduced maintenance expense: A new vehicle won't need maintenance for the first several thousand miles, and then only an oil change and tuneup will be required. More manufacturers are covering the cost of those routine maintenance items. The new vehicle likely won't need new tires, a battery, exhaust system or brakes during its first few years of ownership, or even longer.
Warranty coverage: The manufacturer covers its new vehicles under warranty for at least three years, and some warranties last much longer. Under a manufacturer's warranty, if something goes wrong with the car, it's the responsibility of the dealer and manufacturer to fix it. Typically, these bumper-to-bumper warranties last from three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first — an important detail to note) to five years and 60,000 miles. In addition to comprehensive warranties, many automakers provide warranty coverage for powertrains. These often extend past the bumper-to-bumper warranties and are often valid for years longer. Some extend up to 10 years or 100,000 miles.

It's good to be aware of these powertrain warranties; if you buy a used car, what's left of the warranty may (or may not) be fully transferable.
Peace of mind: If you encounter problems with your new car, you have legal recourse through state lemon laws. If you can prove that your new car is a lemon (definitions differ), you could receive a replacement vehicle or get your money back. Lemon laws apply only to new cars. You also can find out if your vehicle was returned to the used-car market as a lemon by looking at the vehicle's title or checking out a vehicle history report.
Roadside assistance: In addition to a comprehensive warranty, virtually all mainstream new cars and light trucks come with some level of free roadside assistance while the vehicle remains under warranty. In addition, some automakers reimburse you or provide alternate transportation if you are stranded far from home.

The Case for Buying Used

If you're not married to the idea of buying a new car, used vehicles have their own appeal:

Improved reliability: Although used vehicles typically don't carry the same warranties as new ones, the original factory warranty on a new car is often transferable to a second owner. Buyers of certified pre-owned cars from an authorized dealer can purchase a late-model used car and get the balance of the original warranty. Often, a manufacturer will offer a longer-term warranty for certified cars, or some buyers choose to add their own extended warranties. Of course, cars have been getting more reliable over the years, as consumers have demanded it.
Just like new: Another trend that makes buying used a better option is the proliferation of certified pre-owned programs. The idea started with luxury brands such as Lexus and Mercedes-Benz and has become a popular alternative for car buyers.

Vehicle of the Week: 2014 Buick LaCrosse Leather

Good Morning Bloggers!

Today's car of the week, is a beautiful 2014 Buick LaCrosse Leather for sale here in Maryland. This car has less than 30,000  miles on it and is available for only $24,450.

This car's exterior paint is a bright white diamond with a stylish neutral light tan interior.  Here are some of the features of this car:

• Vanity Mirrors Dual Illuminating With Sliding Extensions
• Shifter Activation Power Door Locks
• In Dash Rear View Monitor

• Rear Parking Sensors
• Anti-Lockout Feature Power Door Locks
• Power Exterior Mirrors
• Auto-Dimming Inside Rearview Mirror
• Integrated Turn Signals Exterior Mirrors
• Manual Folding Exterior Mirrors
• Side Impact Door Beams Body Side Reinforcements
• Theft-Deterrent System Anti-Theft System
• Engine Immobilizer Anti-Theft System
• Heated Exterior Mirrors
• Remote 2-Stage Unlocking
• Front And Rear Crumple Zones
• Latch System Child Seat Anchors
• Child Safety Locks
• Rear View Camera System
• Driver Side Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors
• Emergency Interior Trunk Release

To come out and see this car for yourself, contact us at www.burdettebrothers.com or stop by our showroom with other cars for sale located in Hyattstown, Maryland! 

The Top 5 Things To Do To Your Horse Trailer Before Winter

Good Afternoon Bloggers!

For all of our horse trailer customers, who like to hibernate during the winter, or don't travel down south, here is a great article from myhorse.com on five tips to prepare your horse trailer before winter hits! Enjoy and remember, if you need any trailer maintenance or tune-ups, come see us! www.burdettebrothers.com

The Top 5 Things To Do To Your Horse Trailer Before Winter

By Tiffany Mead for myhorse.com

Doing some fall maintenance on your horse trailer can be one of the most cost-effective things a horse owner can do. “Many people have the misconception that with aluminum horse trailers there is no maintenance,” says Laurie Cerny, publisher of Horse Cent$ Magazine and good-horsekeeping.com. “This couldn’t be farther from the truth.”

Cerny offers these five things to do to your horse trailer before winter:

1. Clean out your trailer: This means stripping out all of the bedding from the horse stalls and pulling up the mats and washing the floor. You also want to remove any hay and feed and clean out cracks and crevices (using an air compressor) where grain and hay may have fallen. Remove food items and other perishables (like fly sprays and grooming products) from your living quarters and tack room. Tack and show clothing should also be removed and stored indoors for the winter.

2. Stop any leaks: Leaks can affect the life of a horse trailer – more so with a steel trailer as water + metal equals rust. But, aluminum trailers will corrode where water leaks in and is allowed to pool for long periods of time.

3. Address rust: Rust should be removed by either sanding the area or wirebrushing. It then needs to be cleaned and painted with a rust-inhibitor paint. On steel trailers you want to pay particular attention to the frame – including where the sidewall meets the floor. Aluminum trailers also have steel parts – including the axles and the framework on the tongue (on a bumper pull), and the undercarriage on a gooseneck trailer.

4. Protect tires: Tires will go bad just from sitting and being exposed to the sun. If nothing else, at least put a coat of rubber protectant on your tires. Even better is to cover your tires. Dealers will even recommend moving your trailer at least once a month, or putting it up on blocks, to help prevent tires from flattening on the ground side.

5. Store trailer properly: The best place for a horse trailer isn’t always in your barn. Unless you are storing your trailer in a structure without animals and that has a cement floor, it will rust and corrode faster than if you leave it outside. Trailers can be effectively stored outside with the use of a trailer cover or tarp. It helps if you have a place that provides some protection – like alongside a building.

Also, make sure you are not parking your trailer under trees, as ice storms and other winter weather can cause limbs to break off and damage your trailer. Living quarters should also be winterized if the trailer is not being used over the winter.

New this week: 2015 Featherlite Combo Trailer

This week we want to highlight a brand NEW 2014 Featherlite 8413 Combo Trailer! This trailer is for sale and priced at $20,484. This trailer is 20′ long by 7’0 wide and 7’0 high with a 4’0 straight wall dressing room. It has a carrying weight of 14,000 lbs. It has a four-horse tack package which includes 4 adjustable saddle racks with blanket bars, 3 plastic solid mount 6-hook halter bars and two brush trays.  Be sure to stop by our lot in Hyattstown, Maryland and come see this horse trailer for sale yourself!

Or, contact us at: www.burdettebrothers.com

Things to Think About When Buying a Used Horse Trailer

The Complete Guide to Buying a Used Horse Trailer

Published by  eBay
June 9, 2014 . 872 Views

The Complete Guide to Buying a Used Horse Trailer

When it comes to buying a horse trailer,, it is quite costly. Purchasing a used horse trailer which is in good condition is a good option for horse riders who are on a budget. Selecting a horse trailer can be frustrating because there are so many kinds; it is similar to choosing a car due to the various features and styles of horse trailers that are available. The number one priority when purchasing a horse trailer is the safety and welfare of the horse or horses, so that should be the biggest factor when buyers are looking for the perfect used horse trailer.

One way that horse trailers are categorized is by the way they are pulled. There are two types of pulls: bumper pulls and gooseneck pulls. A bumper pull trailer attaches behind a vehicle and fits to a hitch. A gooseneck pull actually attaches to the vehicle pulling it, becoming part of the vehicle. They are more costly than bumper pull trailers. It is good for long trips, though, since it provides more room. This is only one factor to consider when purchasing a horse trailer, among many, including budget, number of horses being transported, and type of loading ramp desired.

Types of Horse Trailers

Horse trailers are categorized many different ways, but a simple way to break it down is by the ramp styles. Most equestrians have a preference when it comes to unloading and loading the horse, and where the ramp is can be a big determining factor when purchasing a used horse trailer..

Back Ramp Horse Trailers

The back ramp horse trailer is largely the most common type of horse trailer. A back ramp trailer generally house two average-sized horses, and the trailer may offer a partition which divides the horses from each other. A slant loading trailer may offer more comfort for small horses than a standard forward facing horse trailer,, and the slant load design may make travelling easier and more comfortable on horses in general. However, steer clear of putting large horses in a slant load trailer because the length simply cannot accommodate them. Horses are more comfortable in forward facing trailers.

Most horse trailers which have back ramps are enclosed to protect horses from the elements, but there are some cheaper horse trailers that are called stock trailers, which have no protection and no partitions. They are also called box stall trailers, and are not recommended for travelling long distances.

Side Ramp Horse Trailers

On a side ramp horse trailer,, the horses are loaded and unloaded on the side of the trailer instead of the rear. This type of trailer sometimes offers an arrangement where the horses ride facing each other. A side ramp trailer usually accommodates anywhere from two to six horses comfortably, depending on the size of the trailer. Side ramp is a personal preference; some jockeys enjoy a side ramp and some do not.

Another option that is oftentimes more costly is a horse trailer with two ramps. This kind has a ramp that is in the rear or side and one that is near the front, so the horses do not have to exit the trailer backwards. This type of trailers is a good option for more than two horses.
Features to Look for When Buying a Horse Trailer
Buying a horse trailer can be confusing. However, there are a few ways to break down the process and figure out exactly what type of features and additions that users are looking for in order to purchase the best type of horse trailer for their money.

Pull Type

When purchasing a used horse trailer, there are some options to consider. One of the most important is the type of hitch, whether it is bumper pull or gooseneck pull. Something to consider when choosing a hitch style is that it takes more power to move a gooseneck trailer, so for consumers who do not have a large truck, a bumper pull is going to work better. Check the pull capacity of the vehicle that the trailer is to be attached to in order to make sure it can carry the weight of the trailer safely.

Check the car or truck's user manual for this information, and add in the weight of the horses, too, to make sure the weight of the trailer works for the vehicle being attached to it and does not exceed the overall weight limit.

Number of Horses

For buyers who only have one or two horses, a traditional, rear load horse trailer is the best option for the money. Some riders may think they need more room to make horses comfortable, but this is not true. A trailer should be the exact size needed for the number of horses being transported, and not any larger. This is for safety purposes of the horses.
For an easy way to figure out how big the trailer should be, consider the size of the largest horse that is to be transported and accommodate that horse, but do not allow for more horses at a time that the trailer is going to be used for; this may end up injuring the horses by putting them in a trailer which is too large.

Ventilation/Enclosures

Some horse trailers, such as stock trailers, provide a lot of ventilation, but not much protection. Get the best of both worlds with a trailer which provides windows to ventilate the horse in warm weather and enough protection to keep the horse warm when it is cold, by protecting it from inclement weather. A trailer with adjustable ventilation is a plus and is convenient. The horse enjoys sunshine and light too, so some windows are also a good idea.

Storage Space

For equestrians who travel a lot with a horse for shows and competitions, they may want to look into buying a trailer that has additional storage space on board for equipment and other items. Some deluxe horse trailers even have changing rooms on board for the jockeys. For jockeys who travel overnight with horses, extra room is a must for camping or storage of supplies which are needed on long journeys.

Conclusion

Travelling with horses can be sheer joy if they are being transported in the proper trailer. Take your horses to shows and contests easily without spending a lot of money on a brand new horse trailer that retails for a high cost. Instead, purchase a gently used horse trailer which has been taken care of and is in great condition on eBay. There are many great brands and types of horse trailers to choose from, as well as all the other equipment needed for enjoyable horse riding and travelling with horses.
The right horse trailer should accommodate horses comfortably, make sure they are transported safely, have the room they need to move around a bit, get some sunshine and a bit of air, and allow them to be loaded and unloaded easily and conveniently. Buying a horse trailer is a big decision, because it is a large piece of equipment which jockeys use over and over. Considering the options, weighing the factors involved, selecting the right features, and communicating with sellers ensures that buyers receive the horse trailer that is perfect for their horses and their individual needs, as well as the trailer that is right for the buyers' budget. Check eBay for all of the equestrian equipment needed to make horse riding even more enjoyable than it already is.

Three Great Toyotas for Sale!

Good Morning Bloggers!

Today, we want to highlight three great Toyota models we have for sale on our lot in Hyattstown, Maryland.

First up is a 2010 Toyota Matrix in the sundance metallic color, priced at $11,950. With only a little over sixty-five thousand miles on it, this striking car is a great deal!

Next is a silver metallic 2007 Toyota Highlander priced at $14, 975. This is an extremely versatile vehicle with high safety ratings. With barely over fifty thousand miles on it, you won't want to miss this one!

Last but not least is a 2005 silver Toyota Tacoma truck priced at $12,750.  Although this isn't a larger truck it still has tons of power and great gas mileage!

Be sure to come out and see these great vehicles today!! Visit us online at: www.burdettebrothers.com

Winter Driving Safety Tips for Pulling a Horse Trailer

Good morning!

With winter approaching, we want to share an article with you, from USRider, on safety tips for hauling a horse trailer. It's also important that your trailer is up to date with inspections, etc. Do your brake lights work? Is everything working properly with your hitch? Are your tires in good shape? Do you have reflective lights? These are all important things to think about and be sure you have covered before winter arrives. If you are in need of a trailer inspection or tune-up, be sure to schedule your appointment today! www.burdettebrothers.com

Because It’s Slippery Out There: Winter Driving Safety Tips for Pulling a Horse Trailer

By Amy Herdy

I am cat-like in my dislike of cold, wet weather. You know that scene from the Indiana Jones movie where that character moans, “SNAKES. Why’d it have to be SNAKES?” –Well, that’s me, except substituting the word “snow.”

But I realize that many of you are hardier folk than I, and not the type to let a little cold weather stop you from loading up your horse into your horse trailer and hitting the road for some winter riding.
riding a horse in winter. If that is indeed you, then please pay attention to these safety tips from USRider, the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for equestrians. If you’re going to be out on the road this winter with your horse, you need to be careful and invest some time doing routine preventive trailer maintenance to enhance your travel safety.

It is imperative to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving, USRider folks say. Be sure to maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s service schedule. It’s also important to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic.

“When it comes to vehicle maintenance, especially heavy-duty vehicles towing precious cargo, it is better to be proactive than reactive,” said Bill Riss, general manager of USRider. “If you have not already done so, establish a relationship with a trusted ASE (www.ase.com) mechanic. It is essential that you do this before your vehicle breaks down on the side of the highway while towing your horse trailer.”

USRider recommends that you check tire pressure before each trip. This is especially important with temperature changes. If you are traveling from a warm climate to a cold climate, air pressure in your tires will drop. On the other hand, when traveling from a cold climate into a warm climate, the air pressure will rise.

A weak battery will usually reveal itself during cold weather. If your battery is more than a couple of years old, be sure to check it prior to cold weather setting in. Otherwise, you will most likely be inconvenienced on some cold morning when the battery fails to start your vehicle.
When driving, a good rule of thumb to follow on the road is “rain, ice and snow – take it slow.”

Before setting out on a trip, take the time to check weather reports and plan accordingly. Be sure to allow extra time for inclement weather. Mother Nature doesn’t care that you need to be somewhere at a certain time.

Always drive with your headlights on during inclement weather – even if it is not dark. USRider recommends that horse owners drive with headlights on anytime when trailering horses, regardless of weather, because of increased visibility afforded by using headlights.

Also during inclement weather, be sure to increase distance between vehicles to allow more stopping time. USRider recommends that you double the normal distance between vehicles when towing a horse trailer.

“Stopping on snow or ice without skidding and/or jackknifing takes extra distance. Use brakes very gently to avoid skidding,” added Riss. “If you begin to skid or jackknife, ease up on the brake and steer into the skid to regain control.”

During winter months, traction tires are recommended. In order to qualify as a traction tire, tires must have at least an eighth of an inch of tread and be labeled Mud and Snow, M+S, All-Season, or have a Mountain/Snowflake symbol. Since tire performance can vary, a trusted area dealer may be able to advise you on the best tires for your vehicle.

Since it’s difficult to know what road conditions you may encounter during the winter, make it a practice to re-fuel when your vehicle fuel gauge drops below the halfway mark. In many states, you can dial 5-1-1 for travel conditions and road closures.

Three trailers for sale that you can't afford to miss!

Good afternoon everyone!

Today we want to showcase three trailers for sale, that we currently have on the lot. The first one is a
 2015 FEATHERLITE 3110 OPEN CAR TRAILER for only $6,450. This is a brand new trailer and we have six of them in stock!

Up next is a  used 2013 FEATHERLITE 3150 CAR TRAILER for only $19,500! This is a great trailer that is 53′ long x 8’6″ wide with triple 7K axles. It has a payload of 14,500 lbs.

And last but not least is a new 2015 BRAVO SCOUT UTILITY TRAILER for $5, 376.  This shiny new trailer is 14' long and has an inside height of 6'7". 

If you have any questions on these trailers, or want to come see them in person at our location in Hyattstown, Maryland, please contact us at: http://www.burdettebrothers.com/

Safety on the Road - Horse Trailer Hauling Tips

Before you go out on the road with a horse in tow, be familiar and confident with all aspects of your truck and trailer.

If you are a first-time driver, practice driving the combination before you ever put a horse in it. Backing a trailer can seem intimidating, but it really isn't too hard if you know the secret. Put your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel and turn it in the direction you want the back of the trailer to go. If you want the trailer to move sharply, turn the wheel before you move the vehicle. If you want to turn more gradually, turn the wheel as the vehicle is moving.

If you are only hauling one horse, put him on the driver's side. If you are hauling more than one horse, put the heavier one on the driver's side. Roads are usually crowned higher in the middle so putting the heavier load on this side will help balance the trailer.

If you have a friend with you, and you really should not haul alone, familiarize him/her with you rig. If you should become incapacitated, for some reason, your friend may have to take over.

Before you leave for a trip, take the time to check over the rig.

-Check the tow vehicle.
-Check and replenish engine fluid levels and wiper fluid. Towing puts extra stress on the radiator, brakes, and transmission so make sure everything if in top working order.
-Make sure the ball on the tow vehicle is the correct size for the trailer.
-Check tire pressure in the tires on the tow vehicle and the trailer. Improper tire pressure is one of the most common reasons for trailer sway.
-Check lug nuts on the wheels. Wheel nuts and bolts should be torqued before first road use on a new trailer and after each wheel removal. Check and retorque after the first 10 miles, 25 miles, and again at 50 miles.
-Check the inside of the trailer for bees and wasp nests.
-Check over your hitch, coupler, breakaway brake battery, and safety chains. Make sure all lights and the brakes are working properly before you load the horses.
-When the horses are loaded make sure all doors are latched properly, and horses are tied.
-Drive down the driveway and before you drive onto the road, get out and check your hitch assembly again. Take a look at the horses too, to make sure they're good to go.
-If you happen to stop somewhere where the rig has been left unattended, check everything all over again. Someone may have been tampering with the trailer or the horses.
-Driving a horse trailer requires some special precautions. The extra weight will make stopping and starting distances longer, and you will not be able to accelerate as quickly as if you did not have the trailer, especially if you have a downsized vehicle. So drive at least 5 miles under the speed limit and stay a good distance from the vehicle in front of you. Change lanes gradually and always use your turn signals.

Use a lower gear when traveling up or down steep grades. On long grades, downshift the transmission and slow to 45 mph or less to reduce the possibility of overheating.

Always consider the horses in the trailer. Give them time to prepare for stops. Don't accelerate quickly, and make sure the trailer has cleared the turn, straightened out, and the horses have regained their balance before you return to normal speed. Travel over bumpy roads carefully.

If you hear or feel anything that isn't normal, stop and check it out.

Carry an automobile emergency kit with you and an emergency kit for the horses. A human emergency first-aid kit is also a good idea.

Carry a cell phone or CB.

There is an emergency road service available called US Rider for people who are hauling horses. A membership can give you some peace of mind.

Remember that if you have an accident, and you become incapacitated for one reason or another, the emergency personnel and police will most likely not have a clue how to handle your horses. In a visible place in your tow vehicle and/or trailer, put a list of emergency numbers for them to call - your veterinarian, friends, or family members who would be able to help make decisions about your horses.

Whether you are traveling one mile or 500 miles, once you leave your driveway you are at risk. By taking these precautions you have increased your chances to have a safe and enjoyable trip with your horse.

Neva Scheve is a recognized authority on horse trailer safety and author of, "The Complete Guide to Buying, Maintaining, and Servicing a Horse Trailer." You can learn more about trailer safety at EquiSpirit Horse Trailers.

Horse Trailer Buying Tips: Slant load vs. Straight load

Unless you have a friend who hauls or already own a trailer, you're grounded. Ready to buy a new or used horse trailer? First, learn the differences between slant load and straight load horse trailers so you can make an informed buying decision.

Many choices
There are many design choices when buying a horse trailer. One decision that can be difficult to make is whether to buy a horse trailer with a slant load design or a straight load design. A slant load horse trailer enables you to load horses into slanted stalls (from left to right), making it more economical when hauling three horses. A straight load trailer has a traditional design in which the horses are led straight into the trailer from the back, facing forward.

Preference and practicality
Choosing a slant load or straight load trailer is really a matter of preference and practicality. You should research all the facts about horse trailers before making a purchase, and know what you'll need for your horses today and in the future. If you have two horses now, but plan to buy another horse soon, you might consider this when choosing a horse trailer.

Straight load horse trailer - pros and cons
A straight load horse trailer features escape doors at the front, which allow you to exit the trailer easily after loading the horse. There's usually a ramp at the back for loading and unloading and one or two escape doors in the front. With some horse trailers, the escape doors are large enough for the horses to exit through them in case of an emergency. Another feature of the straight load trailer is its wheel wells are located outside the stalls.

Straight load horse trailers tend to work better for larger horses because they provide more space in the stalls.

A disadvantage of straight load trailers is they can be very big when you need one to haul more than two horses. This can cause additional strain on your hauling vehicle.

Slant load horse trailers - pros and cons
Slant load horse trailers are convenient and economical when hauling two or three horses. With a slant load trailer, the stalls are slanted from right to left; thus, you can haul two or three horses without adding much to the length or width of the horse trailer. The wheel wells can be located in one of two places on a slant load trailer, so you can choose between a wide interior trailer with wheel wells in the stalls and a trailer with unobstructed stalls.

Horses tend to ride at a slanted position naturally to maintain good balance, so the slanted stalls enable them to stand in a slanted position for the duration of the trip. Sometimes, however, the slant provided in the stalls might be too much for some horses, causing strain on them while riding. So, each horse owner should carefully consider this for their horse to determine if a slant load trailer is right for them.

Slant load horse trailers also have a few drawbacks. There's often a small tack area in the corner, but this usually forces the last horse to back out because there's not enough room to turn around. Another drawback is some slant load trailers are designed so it's impossible to unload the second and last horse without unloading the horse before it. This can be dangerous if there's an emergency.

When choosing between a straight load and slant load horse trailer, consider the size of your horses and how calm they are when loading and unloading. Bigger horses might be too cramped in a slant load trailer whereas smaller horses usually have plenty of room. If you have only one horse, you can still buy a slant load trailer made for two and remove the divider to provide more space for your horse. Or, you can buy a three-horse slant load trailer for two horses to give them more room to move and breathe.

Shopping for horse trailers
You can find numerous horse trailer brands online to get an idea of the style and design you want.

No matter which type of horse trailer you prefer, consider all its features, benefits, and drawbacks before making a decision. Buy the horse trailer that will be comfortable and practical for your horse for years to come.
Article source: http://www.examiner.com/article/horse-care-101-horse-trailer-buying-tips-slant-load-vs-straight-load

And remember, if you are in the market for a new or used horse trailer, let Burdette Brothers help you! Visit us in Hyattstown, Maryland or online at: www.burdettebrothers.com 

2015 BRAVO SCOUT UTILITY TRAILER

Good afternoon!

Our trailer of the week this week, is a  2015 BRAVO SCOUT UTILITY TRAILER that just came on the lot! This is a great-looking trailer priced at only $4, 490. This brand new trailer is perfect for all of your recreational needs. Be sure to stop out to our location in Hyattstown, Maryland to come see it in person!

New Listing this week!

Today we want to share with you a new trailer listing available! This one is a beauty! It's a
2014 Featherlite 4926 car trailer and we are asking only $19,250! It's 24′ long x 8.5 wide x 7’0 high. Come out to our property in Hyattstown, Maryland to see it for yourself. And remember, if you have any questions you can contact us at: www.burdettebrothers.com 

New stock trailer for sale and a price reduction on as open car trailer!

This week we want to highlight a new stock trailer for sale that we just got in! We are offering a  
2015 FEATHERLITE 8107 STOCK TRAILER for sale listed at $11,326. This trailer is shuny brand new and very sharp-looking. Come out to our show lot and see it for yourself in person!

Also we want to share this price reduction on this 2013 FEATHERLITE 3109 open car trailer for sale. Currently listed at $5,525. 

For more information, or other horse and stock trailers for sale in Maryland, come visit us! 

Trailer Reduction Alert! Two trailers that have to go!

Good Morning bloggers!

Here at Burdette Brothers of Maryland, we are making way for new trailer inventory coming in. That means that two of our great trailers have price reductions to move them off the lot! If you or someone you know are looking for a top quality used horse trailer for sale, please check them out!

2013 FEATHERLITE 9810 6-HORSE TRAILER - $48,915

For more information on this trailer visit: http://www.burdettebrothers.com/listing/2013-featherlite-9810-6-horse-trailer/

2013 FEATHERLITE 8533 LIVING QUARTER TRAILER- $41,575

For more information on this trailer, visit: http://www.burdettebrothers.com/listing/2013-featherlite-8533-living-quarter-trailer/

We are here to help, so feel free to contact us at burdettebrothers.com and we can answer any other questions you may have, as well as set up a time for you to come look at the trailers for sale!