What is a boat trailer?
A trailer is generally a motor-less vehicle pulled by a motor-powered vehicle. Boat trailers are just one of many kinds of trailers. Commonly, the term trailer refers to such vehicles used for transport of goods and materials, though it also refers to recreational or travel vehicles as well—thus, the boat trailer. In earlier days, many such vehicles were trailers for towing.
At its most basic, a boat trailer is a wheeled frame designed to transport a boat across land by towing it behind a vehicle. The frame can be basic for small boats, but larger boats require more complex designs. The boat’s weight, overall length, width, center of gravity, hull shape, engine(s) and many other factors determine the best boat trailer model. A sailboat, for example, requires a special boat trailer because of its deep keel and high winch stand.
You can find as many different types of boat trailers as there are boats, which means that you will need to look closely at the different available options before choosing a particular one, and you will also have different shapes, styles and prices to choose from.
To start in sourcing boat trailers, it would be a good idea to read up on boating magazines and search online so that you are assured of a greater variety and more in-depth knowledge, which will help you choose from among the better options.
Roller or Bunk Type
Basically, you can choose between boat trailers that are either roller or bunk types. Though the latter is preferred because of its suitability for aluminum boats, either type of such trailers can be picked with the deciding factor usually being how easy it is to load the boat and place it in the water. Another important factor in selecting a proper boat trailer is the boating marina with the roller trailer being preferred when you are going to load as well as unload boats into and from shallow waters.
On the other hand, the bunk trailer has a configuration that is suited for floating on and off that is ideal when loading and unloading takes place in slightly deeper waters because of the need to back boat trailers into the water at greater depths being greater. Bunk boat trailers are also less costly as compared to roller trailers while there are also a few combinations of both types also available that have the best of each type and which the costliest boat trailers are also around.
Yet another factor that goes into selecting a suitable boat trailer is the material from which it is constructed, which usually consists of aluminum and also galvanized steel, with each having its own plus and negative points. While galvanized steel is ideal as it does not rust, it will however still be prone to decay. On the other hand, the aluminum constructed ones are rust proof though they can corrode.
Sometimes, you may even wish to choose boat trailers that have brakes, though there are no standardized state laws governing their use. So, whichever type of boat trailer you opt for, make sure that it can be properly towed since the boat itself is not only heavy, but also valuable. You don’t want to tow it in a manner that can prove dangerous and even illegal. Having paid a fair amount of money for a boat, it only follows that having a proper boat trailer is necessary in order to provide you with safe and enjoyable boating.
Choosing the right boat trailer for you
Once you decide you want to purchase a boat trailer, you will find that there are many different styles, sizes, colors and brands. Trying to choose the one that is right for you and your family can be a daunting task. You will have better success if you sit down and make a list of the things that are important to you. Running from one dealership to another can be frustrating, especially when eager salesmen pounce on you the minute your feet hits their doorstep.
Also, find out how much your boat weighs and estimate the weight of any gear and extras that you’ll be transporting in the boat while it’s on the trailer. It’s safer to estimate on the high side. Then, find a trailer that has the capacity to support that amount of weight.
Buy a trailer with larger tires than is normal. Larger tires last longer because they rotate less; this will also further the life of your wheel bearings. In addition, consider purchasing a drive on trailer. This type of trailer is simply backed into the water so the boat can be driven of and on to the trailer. Make sure all the trailer lights are waterproof, as they’ll definitely get wet.
Look for rust or corrosion, as well as cracks or any major damage to the frame. Look closely at the tires; you’ll have to replace them if they have less than a quarter-inch of tread. You should also hook the trailer up to your vehicle and make sure all lights are working properly.
Remember that you get what you pay for. Don’t make the mistake of buying a cheap, poorly constructed trailer to haul around your expensive boat. Look for a high-quality trailer that is well-made and will last a long time. On the other hand, think about buying a used trailer if money is an issue. However, take extra care to inspect the trailer thoroughly.