Trailer style difference

55Crestliner

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
192
I have a 14' foot aluminum boat with a standard modern trailer. The kind that the boat basically sits on top of, rather than down into.
I'd like to find the other kind of trailer that the boat sits down in, between the fenders. (I'll call that the wishbone style)
(is there an official name for the two different kinds?)

Is there any disadvantage to the wishbone style other than having to have the motor tilted up more to avoid hitting it?
My current setup does not require the motor be tilted at the launch.

I like the idea of the boat being lower for more stability and the wider track. Also, the current trailer has quite a bit of flex back and forth. I think the other wishbone style would eliminate that flex since the side rails go all the way forward.

I suppose I've pretty much sold myself on the reasons to change, just curious why there's so many of the sit-on-top ones, and if there's some sort of advantage.

Current setup...

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Style I'd like to go to....

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Last edited:

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,762
Measure the height of the bunks from the ground and you will likely find that there is not much difference in ride height. for the boat, What is different is the axle width and drop on the trailer you are looking at. The reason for the two trailer designs is to accommodate a deep "V" style boat vs for example a flat bottom or small utility boat.
 
Joined
Mar 1, 2005
Messages
924
I can't comment on the trailer, but if you boated by me I would hand you a beer. That's a beautiful boat and motor.
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
70,525
Ayuh,.... I'm with Silvertip,.... I doubt you'll see any difference,.....

Also, the current trailer has quite a bit of flex back and forth. I think the other wishbone style would eliminate that flex since the side rails go all the way forward.

If it tows bad, ya probably need more tongue weight,.....

If it wobbles sittin' still, yer bunks probably need adjustin',....
 

roscoe

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 30, 2002
Messages
21,667
I have replaced an "on top of fenders" trailer, with a "down between the fenders" trailer.

Well worth it for me.

"on top of fenders" trailers are narrow, use less materials, so are cheaper.

With my wider trailer, my boat sits much lower, 7.25" lower.
Is easier to get in and out of boat.
Easier to load or unload gear from the boat, just reach in and grab it.
Can see over the boat with the rear view mirror in the tow vehicle.
Can launch in significantly shallower water without putting the tow vehicle in the water.

So look for a trailer with enough space between the fenders to fit your boat.
Chances are you will need to get a trailer that is a little longer, as thats what's on the market.
But thats ok, a longer trailer is easier to back up.
 
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