When purchasing a boat trailer, it’s important to choose the correct size for your boat and the trailer. A boat trailer of 18 feet or less should have a width of about 84 inches. Larger trailers will have widths of seven feet or more. You should also consider the weight of the boat and any personal gear you plan to haul with you. A general rule of thumb is that you should not load the trailer any heavier than 10% of the weight of the boat.You may want to check out boat trailer for sale near me for more.
If your boat is larger than 24 feet, you can consider purchasing a larger trailer. Generally, shaft drive boats will fit on standard aluminum trailers. Boats with V drives will require more clearance in the rear to allow the shaft to clear the trailer frame. However, you can find shaft drive boats with up to 24 feet on standard aluminum trailers.
Another option for a boat trailer is a roller trailer. Roller trailers are great for launching your boat in shallow water. These trailers have rollers on the bottom that support the weight of the boat while it’s being guided into water. The rear rollers should be slightly submerged so you can use them as a guide while backing into the water.
When choosing a boat trailer, make sure the model is rated for your length and GVWR. This is essential because boat trailers have large amounts of adjustment in their support structure. You should also ensure that the wheels are braked so that the boat trailer will stay within the maximum weight range. In some cases, you may need to adjust the axles on the trailer to maintain the ideal weight range.
Generally, boat trailers are made of one of three materials: steel, aluminum, or tubular steel. While all three materials have their advantages and disadvantages, steel is generally the more durable choice. A decent steel trailer will last the lifetime of the boat. However, an aluminum trailer can withstand the corrosive elements of saltwater.
Before purchasing a boat trailer, be sure to calculate the total weight of your boat and its engine before you buy one. You can do this at a local weigh station. Then, subtract the weight of the trailer from the total weight of the boat and the engine. The trailer weight should not exceed 10 to 15 percent of the combined weight of the boat and trailer. If this is the case, you might need to purchase a larger trailer.
Torsion axles are the best option for trailers with shallow ramps and low tides. They won’t cause an uneven load, but they do cost more. Torsion and suspension axles have long records of reliability. But the type you choose will depend on your preferences and the location you plan to use the boat trailer for.