How to Choose the Right Size Boat Trailer

admin August 21, 2013Uncategorized

How to Choose a Boat Trailer

Choose the right trailer for your boat

Unless you live right on the water, and have the luxury of having the option of storing your boat right in the marina, you’ll need to choose a boat trailer to launch, carry, and even store your boat. After spending a lot of money for your boat, it is tempting to skimp out on the trailer

Picking the right boat trailer can be a bit tricky, as there are so many options. The first thing you need to figure out, however, is the size. To calculate the length of the trailer you’ll need, measure along the center line of your boat from the bow-eye to the transom. Then, you will need to calculate the trailer capacity you will need. You must find the total weight of your boat, including the engine, a full tank of fuel, full water tanks, and any personal items you may have on board.

If you’re planning to store things on your boat, or carry things on your boat over long distances, factor in those weights, too. Find the combined total weight and select a trailer with the next highest capacity rating. Select a trailer with the next highest capacity rating. 

The next factor to determine is the material of the trailer: steel or aluminum. Steel is highly durable, as it is rust-resistant, extremely strong, and self-healing. Steel is a good option for boat owners who travel long distance or engage in high-stress usage such as frequent loading. 

Steel’s main downside is its heavy weight. Aluminum frames are also very strong, are much lighter than steel frames, and tend to be more aesthetically pleasing. However, for bigger boats, aluminum needs to be much thicker in order to support them. This makes the frame heavier. For smaller boats, up to 6000lbs, aluminum is ideal, but for bigger boats, steel would be a better choice. 

There is also the type of hull support to consider. There are many types of hull support: roller equipped trailers, bunk equipped trailers, traditional v-bunk and continuous bunk trailers, and AB Bunk trailers. Roller equipped trailers have the obvious advantage of easy rolling. They can be quickly launched and re-loaded. 

Rollers are the ideal support system for boat users who will be launching in poor ramp or tidal conditions. But note that not every boat can be towed on a trailer equipped with rollers. You should inquire with your boat manufacturer to see if your boat is compatible. Many people chose to go with bunk trailers, because they have access to good ramps. Bunk trailers can be adjusted for optimal support. 

Traditional v-bunk and continuous bunk trailers are used on smaller trailers and are built to be submerged in water. AB bunk trailers are similar but supported with extra steel tubes and can pivot from left to right. 

The last important thing to consider is your state’s laws regarding the trailer. Most trailers are required to have brakes on each wheel, or where available. Check with your local DMV to ensure that you are aware of the requirements before your purchase a trailer. 

Of course, if you are not going to use your trailer regularly you can save money, space and maintenance costs by renting a boat trailer in the Tampa Bay area from American Boat Trailer Rental!