Ez loader trailer

[Fx21]

I have 2011 ez loader dual axle boat trailer and all the cross members have rusted badly at the lowest point. Each cross member has a hole about as big as a golf ball. Axles are starting to rust the same way. Has anyone had this same problem? I have a Skeeter Fx21 that is hauld on this trailer.

 

[jimmbo]

Welcome to iboats

Depends on where the trailer was dunked(Salt or Brackish water will hasten Corrosion), and how the Owner(s) maintained it. You didn't say if it was painted or galvanized. While the outside of the Tubes are painted/powder coated, the inside isn't. EZLoader does sell replacement parts, but often it is just easier to replace the Trailer. My 2002/2005 EZLoader has held up very well, but it never sees Salt Water

 

[airshot]

Seems like once they start rusting they go fast! Sounds like salt water might be your issue. Not sure I would trust it hauling my precious boat. If a serious oroblem would occur, not sure your insurance co would approve if you knowingly used a rusted out trailer....

 

[dingbat]

Guessing you have a welded steel trailer.

Galvanized trailers typically have weep holes in the bottom of all frame the members including the axles. Rust starts on bolts (dissimilar metals) or rub points where the zinc coating has been compromised by wear.

My 1997 Loadrite has lived in saltwater since new and just now found rust on the underside of one of the frame rails.

Could just replace the damaged frame rail but it’s good excuse to buy the new aluminum trailer I’ve been eyeing for a couple of years.

 

[jimmbo]

Myself, I would never trust Aluminium to be strong enough to carry a load. To me, it is a brittle metal that snaps apart, my only choice is Steel.

 

[airshot]

Myself, I would never trust Aluminium to be strong enough to carry a load. To me, it is a brittle metal that snaps apart, my only choice is Steel.

Many different grades of aluminum some are flexible. Many of todays semi trailers are aluminum and rated to carry more than a steel trailer...many suspension arms on todays vehicles are forged aluminum, just as strong as there steel counterparts, just lighter in weight.

 

[Fx21]

Welcome to iboats

Depends on where the trailer was dunked(Salt or Brackish water will hasten Corrosion), and how the Owner(s) maintained it. You didn't say if it was painted or galvanized. While the outside of the Tubes are painted/powder coated, the inside isn't. EZLoader does sell replacement parts, but often it is just easier to replace the Trailer. My 2002/2005 EZLoader has held up very well, but it never sees Salt Water

This has always been in fresh water. Thank you for the response.

 

[jimmbo]

Many different grades of aluminum some are flexible. Many of todays semi trailers are aluminum and rated to carry more than a steel trailer...many suspension arms on todays vehicles are forged aluminum, just as strong as there steel counterparts, just lighter in weight.

I know, I cringe every time I see one of my cars on the Hoist, how flimsy the Front End looks compared with the other Two, which have Normal looking Front Ends

 

[04fxdwgi25]

Heck, not just the suspension parts. My car's frame and body are all aluminum, too.
Have no concerns with strength or usability.

Biggest worry is cost of body repair, since guys that work on aluminum vehicles are far and few between.

 

[jimmbo]

Heck, not just the suspension parts. My car's frame and body are all aluminum, too.
Have no concerns with strength or usability.

Biggest worry is cost of body repair, since guys that work on aluminum vehicles are far and few between.

What make and model is it? I would like to know so I can avoid it when shopping for a new vehicle. The car I mentioned earlier, has an Aluminium Trunk Lid. Very flimsy, you can put a permanent Dent in it, just by pressing your Thumb against it. Not a very good metal except for cookware

 

[04fxdwgi25]

2018 Caddy CT6 Platinum. Had someone bang a door against it and put in small dent (BTW, same thing happens on steel bodies too). Was easily removed by a guy that does paintless dent removal and he said it was super easy to massage out. Car still looks like the day it was new.

Some vehicles with aluminum panes have very thin aluminum making prone to very easily being damaged. Not so on this model.

Don't worry about buying new. Last one to roll off assy line and sold in US was in 2020.

IMHO - Outstanding vehicle

 

[jimmbo]

That is the Brand I was referring to having the poor choice of Aluminium in its construction

 

[airshot]

That is the Brand I was referring to having the poor choice of Aluminium in its construction

Gotta pass the gov't fuel standards by cutting weight. If they use plastic it would be even worse. Aluminum can be very strong if the right formula is used when making it !!! Today, it needs to be light in weight and look good on the showroom floor!!! Once it leaves the showroom the dealer and mfgr doesnt care any more !!!

 

[04fxdwgi25]

But, fuel economy is a big point. Mine has the 3L Twin Turbo putting out 404 hp, and if I do my part, it gets 36 mpg highway. Has gone as high as 40 mpg in a 25 mile stretch of flat road (when switched to 4 cyl operation).