HOW TO BUY A TRAILER

A book can be written on this subject alone, but I will try to simplify this process and make it less complex to purchase a trailer by categorizing each topic.

Bunkers VS Rollers

Many fiberglass boat manufactures will not warranty the gel coat or the hull if it is left on trailers that use rollers. Bunks provide properly distributed support for the hulI.  As well, ensure that the placement of the bunks are located in the centre and towards the outside of the boat. Bunks can either be fixed or adjustable; if fixed, they must be in contact with the hull the entire length of the bunk.

Trailer Frame

Depending upon where you are located can dictate the construction material used in the manufacturing of your trailer. In salt water, galvanized or aluminium trailers are preferred with brake flush kits. In fresh water, just about any type of trailer can be used, usually painted steel, which is the least expensive of the three. The length of the frame should be 2-3 feet longer than the boat; measure this point from the transom forward.

Lights

Sealed light assemblies are more desirable on modern trailers being produced. More often than not, we forget to unplug the wiring harness prior to backing into the water; suffering the consequence of a cracked bulb. So have a “Check List” to help you avoid unnecessary expenses and repairs.

Brakes

On lighter boats under 20 ft., a single axle is usually sufficient. In most cases, this trailer would not have brakes and the vehicle pulling the trailer could satisfy the braking requirements. However, for a larger boat, the trailer size must be in  proportion. For example, for a 28 to 30 ft. boat, the weight of the trailer could be 2000 lbs. alone. Combined with the boat's weight, gas and gear, your towing load could be close to 10,000 lbs. Could your vehicle safely stop this load? Probably not. Most manufacturers offer electric or disc brakes in both Hydraulic or electric form. Further research as to which best suits your needs is necessary since the Ministry of Transportation has required trailer braking system criteria in each particular province or state. If the trailer comes with brakes standard on one or two axles, with the option of additional brakes on the other axle, it would be wise to have them installed. This will give added security and peace of mind.

Suspension

When your going down the road and you hit a pothole, don't be surprised if you hear a banging sound from the trailer. This means you've bottomed out the suspension. Its important to know that when you hit a bump or dip in the road, the momentary shock load can easily double the load on your suspension. This is why it is imperative to make sure you have more than enough capacity to handle situations like bumps or portholes on the road. To calculate an approximate trailer carrying capacity, add 30% to your boats dry weight. This takes into consideration the gas, gear and other items that add to the weight of the boat. Remember a heavier carrying capacity will be safer and put less load on the trailer. Reminder: the net pay load is the GVWR less the trailer weight.

Tires and Bearings

Too often over looked are the tires and the bearings. As seen when you pass the abandoned trailers sitting at the side of the highway. When travelling long distances at highway speeds, its advisable to choose the larger tires and wheels. Not only will they have a higher load capacity but will rotate at a lower speed and run cooler; not to mention put less strain on bearings.

Maintaining proper tire pressure also ensures a smoother ride and reduces the risk of a blow out due to under inflated tires. Bearings can be a sealed type or one with a greased fitting. If the option were available to get a hub assembly with a grease fitting, this would be advisable. As periodic greasing helps prevent grease breakdown and rust in the bearing assembly. When comparing tires choose radial tires or bias ply tires and don't forget the spare tire and mounting kit in case of a flat.

Smooth Ride

In order to maintain a smooth ride and avoid swaying of the trailer, make sure the centre of gravity is matched precisely to the placement of the axle and the weight of the boat. As a rule, the tongue weight should be 10% of the load. This also helps to ensure a smooth ride with good handling. Make sure that the trailer is level when towing and that the coupler is not too high or too low.

Maintenance

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your own safety and for the safety of others. Always check your lights that all signals are working and check tire pressure and the condition. Periodic inspection of the bearings is essential which would include greasing, re-packing and bearing play. Other items to inspect are suspension, nuts and bolts, lug nuts, electrical, hydraulic lines and the structural integrity of the frame. Let's not forget the safety chains and the coupler.

BUYING: For buying sources click on TRAILERS.

Following the above tips will help assist you in making informed decisions when its time to purchase a trailer and to travel safely with a minimum of mechanical problems. Take some time, do your homework and due diligence and you will have a much happier time boating by being... A RESPONSIBLE BOATER...

THINK ABOUT THIS... Without a BOAT, 75% of the Earth’s Surface is Wasted!!!!

Author: Dave McPhail, President of Boatcan