Replacing Material on the Ramp of a 2007 Sundowner Horse Trailer

Updated 09/14/2012 | Published 09/11/2012

Question:

I have a 2007 sundowner straight load horse trailer that has plastic type material on the ramp where the horses load and unload. It is simular to the indoor/outdoor grass looking, washable material you might find on a miniture golf corse. I am not even sure how it is attached to the ramp itself. I have not found any screws or bolts. It is extremely slippery. I have had 2 horses fall out of the trailer and now they are becoming afraid to even enter it at all. I stopped at a trailer company and they did not have any ideas to help me and told me to go home and google non-slip. any thoughts or Ideas that might help

asked by: Colleen G

Expert Reply:

The material that is on the ramps of your 2007 Sundowner horse trailer is a type of artificial carpet that is typically pretty easy to install and inexpensive to replace if you stick with the carpet. Usually that type of carpet will be glued and nailed or stapled to the ramp, but if you do not see any screws, staples or nails, it may just be glued.

The problem with the artificial carpet is that the longevity is usually not as great as rubber mats or pads. Dirt, mud, grime and other elements will build up and begin to gloss over the carpet leaving a slippery surface.

My recommendation would be to remove the carpet, it is most likely glued down and there may be trim nailed around to the edges, and install a ribbed rubber mat like part # 3622RM. To install a rubber mat, you will want to apply an adhesive to the ramp before laying down the rubber pad. Next, along the outer edges screw the pad to the ramp.

I would recommend a durable adhesive that will hold up in colder and warmer temperatures, which can be found at any local hardware store. I also recommended screws rather than nails because, overtime, nails will have the tendency to pull out, especially when they are holding down a material like rubber.

expert reply by: John H