BOAT TRAILERS

Quite probably the next most important item of boating equipment, other than the boat itself.

The transportation of most boats from storage to the water is done by the use of a trailer. Trailers are sometimes manufactured for a specific type of boat, but often the manufacturers include adjustable features that can be altered to suit the different lengths and shapes of the hull.

boat trailers are subject to safety considerations especially if used on the public roads.

When buying a pre-owned trailer pay particular attention to areas that show corrosion. Trailers are often reversed into water when launching and retrieving the boat and salt water, in particular, is highly corrosive to mild steel. Wheels and wheel bearings should be checked as should any braking system the trailer may have. If the trailer has a winch, ensure the ribbon, rope or chain is in good condition as a failure in this area could prove very dangerous when retrieving or launching a boat. Some boat trailers have an electric winch so check this is in working order. Check the tyres, tow hitch, jockey wheel and clamps and don’t forget you will need a light board for towing on public roads.

When on the trailer, the boat will generally be supported in the hull area. There are sometimes pads or rollers on either side. These can ease the retrieval and launch. Rollers allow the boat to move on and off the trailer easier than support pads. However boat trailers with these pads can have improved stick-slip by the use of PE or PTFE plastic materials fixed to them.

At Boat Chandlers Guide we are featuring pre-owned, new and specialist trailer manufactures who will often produce trailers designed specifically for your boat or yacht.