Increase ground clearance for off-roading?

[SAABologist]

Hi Folks, I have a ShorLander trailer for my 16' Mirrocraft Outfitter. I bought it a couple of months ago and the tires are worn out and the rims are rusty. So instead of replacing them with the same size, I would like to increase the ground clearance for off-roading, even if it makes launching a little more difficult.

I am going to use the trailer on rough roads and dirt roads and would like to upgrade this trailer for better ground clearance.

The trailer has 13" tires now.
The springs are on top of the axle.

I have some 17" wheels that match my Suburban but I don't know if it would be a good idea to get hubs for those big wheels on this boat trailer. Making them fit with fenders might be a hassle too.

Anyway, thanks in advance for any advice based on experience in lifting a boat trailer for off-road use

 

[Scott Danforth]

You wont find hubs to match your current suburban wheels. You would need adapters, etc

The 13" wheels/tires are not limiting your ability to go off-road. The trailer frame, springs, and the bunks/rollers are the limit

 

[SAABologist]

Thanks, I understand that good 13" tires would be fine off-road. Fortunately, the bunks keep the boat plenty high. But the back roller and axle are only 7.5 inches off the concrete. So what else can I do about ground clearance besides changing wheels and raising the fenders?

I did find this cool 5" lift kit at Rough Country. They show a modified trailer with car wheels.

Rough Country Suspension Systems

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[jimmbo]

Your Ground Clearance is only as great as the Lowest Point of the Trailer. Taking a Trailerboat off road isn't my idea of fun. Pack an Inflatable in the back of the 4X4 to explore places off the beaten path

 

[SAABologist]

There are lots of fishing villages in Baja California where one can launch from the beach or home made ramps, but some of the roads getting there are pretty bad. Lots of people do it, including fishers with their big heavy pangas. I would just like a few more inches of clearance.

 

[jimmbo]

There are lots of fishing villages in Baja California where one can launch from the beach or home made ramps, but some of the roads getting there are pretty bad. Lots of people do it, including fishers with their big heavy pangas. I would just like a few more inches of clearance.

I doubt those big heavy Pangas have more than 12 or so inches of clearance for the Axle(s)

 

[SAABologist]

Yes, a lot of them have simple trailers with car wheels and a long tongue for beach launching. They make it work. As an aside, check out the fun videos of those fishermen running their pangas full speed up onto the beach. The Aussies also do impressive beach launches and exits with BIG boats. Very fun to watch.

Anyway Jimmbo, I agree with you that I am over-thinking it and since I need new wheels anyway I will jump from the 13s to 15s and that will get me about 10" for the axle and rear roller.

Thanks,

 

[jimmbo]

Just make sure you have enough clearance with the Fenders for full suspension movement
And don't use Car or Truck Tires

 

[SAABologist]

Thanks, I will. I have enough room to raise the fenders a few inches.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Yes, a lot of them have simple trailers with car wheels and a long tongue for beach launching. They make it work. As an aside, check out the fun videos of those fishermen running their pangas full speed up onto the beach. The Aussies also do impressive beach launches and exits with BIG boats. Very fun to watch.

Anyway Jimmbo, I agree with you that I am over-thinking it and since I need new wheels anyway I will jump from the 13s to 15s and that will get me about 10" for the axle and rear roller.

Thanks,

you may want to check your math. for ever 2" of tire diameter, you only get 1" extra clearance