Boat Trailer Buying Guide
How to get the best trailer for your boat
When it comes to purchasing a boat trailer, there tends to be a mindset that one is just as good as the other. This is not so. Trailers for boats are as important as the other aspects of the vessel for sale. Knowing how to choose the right trailer for your boat will minimize the risk of damage while at the same time maximizing functionality and transportation capabilities. Here are a few things to consider when looking at to buy a boat trailer.
What is the overall weight you will be towing?
All driver’s license have a weight restriction attached to the specific class that is issued. And while the boat that you are towing may not meet the maximum weight load on the license, the trailer with the boat and all of the gear might. To properly calculate the weight of the trailer and the boat, add the weights together and then put on an additional 10% for the gear and such inside the boat.
Can the trailer hold my boat?
Not all boat trailers are created equal. Each trailer has a maximum poundage which it can comfortably hold. When picking a trailer it is common for a person to take the dry weight of their boat and use that as the weight for the trailer. It is the best practice, however, to take the wet weight of the boat as this ensures that the fluctuation which one will have when transferring a boat fresh out of the water to the trailer will not surpass the weight restrictions of the design.
Can I realistically tow this trailer?
Idealistically, all you would need to do when picking a boat trailer would be to back your vehicle up to the boat, attach a few wires and the hitch, and pull off. But there are a few issues to consider. First, is your car equipped the right hitch for the trailer. Secondly, is the width of the trailer going to obscure your ability to drive safely (meaning is it wider than your car/truck), and thirdly how high or low does the trailer rest and is there a means to raise or lower the trailer hitch to accommodate various sizes. You may find that although the trailer is great for the boat, it is not for your vehicle. Pair the two accordingly.
Single or Multiple Axel?
There are pros and cons to both the single and the multiple axel. For the single axel, it makes maneuverability easier as the boat is only pivoting on two wheels. The con is that if a tire ever blows on a single axel, you have a bit of a problem. On the other hand, the multiple axel reduces the risk of damage should a tire blow and gives a bit more stability to launching and highway driving. The downside to the multiple axel is that there is a restriction to movement, especially turns.
The single axel does well for the smaller boats such as the skiff, bass boat, fish around, and the smaller dual console boats. Larger boats such as the cabin cruiser, mini yacht, full yacht, catamarans, and most inboard boats would do better with a multiple axel boat trailer.
What braking system is on the trailer?
When looking at a boat trailer for sale, the breaking system is critical. Some trailers have brakes on all axels, which is recommended for better control. Generally, you have two break systems on boat trailers. The first is the electrical brake system. While a bit less expensive and ideal for downhill maneuvering, the system does not hold up to saltwater conditions very well, requiring much maintenance. Surge breaking is recommended for those who have saltwater vessels.
Is your trailer defined in the boat warranty?
If your boat, even if it is a pre-owned boat, is under warranty, there may be stipulations on the type of trailer which can be used within the warranty guidelines. Boats which have a cored hull may require a bulk trailer as well as rollers to maintain the warranty. Check with the seller of the boat and trailer to ensure that the brand/model of the trailer is compliant with any existing warranties.
Where can I find a boat with a trailer for sale?
Should you require a boat for sale with a trailer, or if you just need to find a quality trailer for sale, Vessel Vendor is a great place to start your search. Our site is catered to boat enthusiasts, meaning you will not find harmonicas with our HydraSports boats. We are just boats, because that is our passion. While on our site, please visit the various sales pages as well as our pages on boat model reviews, manufacturer reviews, and location pages, as these will have information to help you in finding the right boat for sale.
If you have specific questions about a boat, trailer, or any of the services of Vessel Vendor, or if you would like to list a boat trailer for sale, please contact us through the appropriate form on our website.
