Trailer Mounted Drilling Rigs: When They Make Sense
A trailer mounted drilling rig is a drilling rig built on a trailer chassis, pulled by a separate truck. It's a popular choice for small to mid-size drilling contractors, because it offers a good balance of cost, mobility, and drilling capacity. But it's not for everyone. Here's how to decide if a trailer rig is right for your operation.
When to Choose a Trailer Rig
You already have a truck. If you already own a heavy-duty truck tractor, a trailer rig saves you money because you don't have to buy the integrated truck chassis. That's a 15-20% savings right there.
You need flexibility. With a trailer rig, you can detach the truck and use it for other work while the rig sits on site. If you're a small contractor with only one truck, this is a big advantage. You're not tying up your only vehicle just to move the rig.
You work on road-accessible sites. Trailer rigs are longer and need more space to turn. If your job sites are on paved roads or wide dirt roads, it's no problem. But if you're drilling in backyards or on narrow mountain trails, a truck mounted rig is easier to maneuver.
What to Look For
Tongue Weight and Axle Rating. Make sure the trailer is rated for the weight of the rig. Overloading a trailer is dangerous — it can cause trailer sway, tire blowouts, or even a rollover. Check the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and make sure it's more than the total weight of your drilling rig plus all your equipment.
Brakes. Most states require electric brakes on trailers over a certain weight. Make sure your trailer has proper brakes, and that they're wired correctly. Bad brakes are a safety hazard.
Mast Design. Telescopic masts are faster to rig up, but lattice masts are stronger and can handle deeper drilling. Think about what depth you need to drill, and choose accordingly.
FAQ
Q: How much does a trailer mounted drilling rig cost?
A: A light-duty trailer rig (100-200m depth) starts around $50,000 to $80,000. A medium rig (300-500m) runs $100,000 to $180,000. You also need to factor in the cost of a truck tractor, if you don't already have one.