Increased Trailer Weight Capacity?

[jumpjets]

I just bought a new to me 23' boat, but it doesn't have a trailer. I currently have a 21' cuddy cabin boat and factory matched trailer. I plan on junking the boat since it's rotten, and I'd like to know if I can modify the trailer to use on my newer, heavier boat.

The trailer is a 1990 EZ loader, and the weight placard says it's good for 3400lbs. If I put new, heavier duty springs on it, would it be safe and legal to haul a 4300lb boat? Obviously I would have the bunks and winch adjusted as well to match the new hull.

I've done a lot of work to my current trailer. New surge disc brakes, new LED lights and wiring, new bearings all around, new tires with spare, and more.

I don't really want to drop $3200 on a new trailer, and I feel like it's a wild goose chase to find a used trailer that will fit the specs I need, especially if I have a perfectly good trailer already.

 

[bruceb58]

My advice is to sell your trailer and buy another one.

Changing just the suspension does not change the load carry capacity of the trailer. You also have the frame of the trailer that would need to support the extra weight. While it is possible that the trailer frame is capable of the extra weight, unless you are the mechanical engineer who designed the trailer, you will not know that.

You have the extra issue that your old trailer ws probably too short for a 2 foot longer boat.

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... What are the Axles rated for,..??

 

[fhhuber]

You've got an old frame designed for a lighter load and then all of the aging issues... If its got box "tube" frame then you can expect the frame to be internally rusted and weakened.

Overall... probably best to go to a local trailer dealer and buy new.

 

[gm280]

Bondo hit on the best question. What are the axle(s) rated for? That would be my first concern. Heavier duty springs will be needed, but so will the axle or axles. JMHO!

 

[JimS123]

My trailer is a TeeNee. Each frame they made was good for several different lengths and weights. The tongue is adjustable over a 2' range. The capacities were adjusted by changing the load range and / or the size of the tires.

My Yacht Club trailer is also quite similar.

Before I did anything I would contact EZ Loader and see what your trailer capability is.

 

[airshot]

Yep axle and tire ratings need to exceed the weight of the loaded boat plus the weight of the trailer itself.