Boat Trailers - Necessity or Luxury?
Getting your boat from one great boating location to another requires the use of a very seldomly thought of utilitarian device called a boat trailer. Selecting one that suits both your needs and your boat is sometimes a difficult decision - not all trailers created equal.
In simple terms a boat trailer is a frame with wheels that is designed to transport your boat across land behind a vehicle. But in actuality there are many more factors to consider when looking for the right trailer for your boat and boating habits.
Different Types of Boat Trailers
It is always a good idea to find out a little about the different types of boat trailers and then to undertake some research on the one that you think will best suit your needs. Just like boats, trailers come in many different shapes and sizes, from super deluxe race boat trailers with chrome mag wheels and all of the options - to very simplistic utilitarian models with no bells or whistles. Most boaters shoot for something in between.
There are two main types of powerboat trailers - bunk style slide-ons and roller trailers. Sailboats require special trailers because it has a deep keel and a high winch stand. These trailers are usually custom made for each sailboat. Powerboat trailers can be adjusted to fit your boat when the right model is purchased.
Have a budget in mind and an idea of what works and what doesn't work for your boat, before you actually go out ready to buy. One of the first things to consider when you are choosing your trailer is the size of your boat. Before making your first call, know the dry and loaded weight of the boat, the beam and the length. Then read the trailer manufacturer's label, usually found on the toungue of any trailer to see what the maximum weight and size the trailer can accomodate is before you buy.
Boat trailer purchases decisions involve making sure you select adequate features.
Decide early which type of construction your require, aluminum or galvanized steel. Aluminum will last much longer, especially in a salt water environment, but may be overkill for a fresh water boating area.
Types of lighting (LED or Incandescent) are a factor to consider and are required by law. The lights, bearings and axle need to be water tight as they will be submerged when the boat is launched. Some trailers will have a frame-mounted spare tire. Spring type, torsion or leaf will also be a consideration, along with a fresh water flushing system for the brakes.
Mechanical boat trailers require the use of a manual or electric winch to get the boat from the water on to the trailer. Slide on trailers make it very simple to just drive the boat up upon the trailer, this feature makes loading and unloading much easier.
Some trailers will have electronic brakes and others have surge brakes others have no brakes at all. For larger boats, or if you plan on a lot of travel with your boat, good quality brakes are a very good investment. In a salt water environment, stainless steel disc brakes are the best choice.
The best advise we can give the trailer shopper is to ask questions at the local boat ramps. Observe what manufacturers trailers are most commonly used by the local guides and avid fishermen. These people use their boats and trailers more than the average boater and the best quality trailer is a necessity for them.
In our area of Florida, the most commonly found trailers are not even a national brand name. But these Aluminum Slide-On trailers are the easiest to use and best trailers most local boaters have ever used. This may be true in your area of the country. Just look around, you will see them being pulled out of the water at boat ramps every day.
The lowly trailer - a not commonly thought of or appreciated necessity of boating.
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