Re: Homemade Boat dollies
Here's an idea of what I plan to build, sort of picture two engine cranes hook to hook but not as tall. The size and capacity of the casters will be determined by both boat weight and type of surface it's to be used on. If the casters chosen aren't rated to handle the boat to be worked on, you could add more of the same caster, my plan was to use 4 casters on each end and there would be a bow and keel dolly. I may add braces to tie them together, but I doubt I will need them. The down arms that actually hold the boat will be lined with carpeted wood bunks of which could be made custom to fit different boats.
I would build it out of steel tubing, the wall thickness wouldn't need to be any heavier than the average boat trailer, if not less being that it will not be subject to road shock and stresses. Depending on the size of the boat, I would most likely use 2x2 or 3x3" tubing for the majority of the frame and uprights. The cradle arms could be channel and the back side braces could be flat stock or angle iron. On a heavier boat, I would extend the back side diagonal braces out over each outboard caster and use a suitable sized square tubing as well. Uprights, cradle arms, and back braces could all be hinged or made to pivot with one end of the down braces being made adjustable in length so as to vary the angle of the cradle. Entire fixture would become rigid once the braces are secured.
I attached a few rough sketches, please excuse the crude drawings, but hopefully you can get the idea.
I've repositioned my 3200 lb. setup around the yard with it too. That's my boat and trailer with gas, oil, etc... It might almost be worth it to look around for a cheap dilapidated trailer you can throw some cheap tires on just to be able to move it when you need it. Matter of fact .... I know where a 3 ton trailer is right now sitting on the ground with rotten rubber. Let me know if you want to make the trip, and I'll get her number for you. I think she wants $30 or $40 for it.
