New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

[bunker108]

I am exploring options for sourcing a brand new trailer for my boat. I have been watching Craigslist for months and have concluded if I find a used trailer I will be in the same position as I am now. My trailer needs tires, spring bushings, winch post and lots of rust removal and paint. The final blow was the rusted out beam I just discovered that runs for the tongue to the first crossmember. It pulls great and the lights and bunks are new...but I think this one is too far gone to mess with.

So I want to purchase (maybe finance) a brand new one. There is only a Bayliner dealership near me and am waiting to get a price for a basic trailer that the 175 sits on. I havnt heard back yet. I am alse waiting to hear back from a Lund dealer in Colorado the deals with Shorelander trailers. I would like to find something local but my options are limited. I really don't even know what to expect price wise. My budget is $1200. Where do I go from here and who makes a inexpensive and reliable single axle trailer? Opinions please...

 

[bunker108]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

Holy smokes! Just got a call back...$2300 for a Shorelander. That seems a bit high but what do I know. Maybe I will need to keep my eye out for a used-new trailer.

 

[dmoriarty51]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

there is a local builder that uses BEAR trailers.... dunno where they are made tho

 

[GA_Boater]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

Hey Bunker - Hit up EZ, he has posted a few times about a source for new trailers for about $1500 if I remember right, Over your budget but it's a new trailer.

 

[BonairII]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

You can probably find a crappy boat(with a nice trailer) on craigslist for cheap. Sell the boat and keep the nice trailer.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

I wholeheartedly support your decision to go new. I have personally rehabbed a trailer and it's a GIANT PAIN. Mine is still in pretty good shape and I MAY slap some paint on it someday but if/when it needs more than that, it's gone. I got a quote of $1500 or less from my local boat dealer on a galvanized trailer. I wish I could remember the brand. Although even at $2k, I think it'd be worth it. Since yours is still plenty functional, just start self-financing it to yourself in the 'ol savings account.

 

[bunker108]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

http://www.trailrite.com/sp_single_axle.htm

Here is a factory direct option at $1960 not including tax.

I also found a used trail-rite in Az asking $900 with three new tires and a new wheel for the spare. It has four bunks but they are fixed so I am not sure how my boat will fit. I will post some pics when I get a chance.

 

[caldwell54]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

Please let us know what you find. I am looking for a new trailer for my 1973 Starcraft Holiday - same hull as yours. I would also like to get a new trailer for $1500 or so. Thank you

 

[bunker108]

Re: New trailer options for 1973 Starcraft 18' SS?

Hey Caldwell it has been a tough hunt. I got another new quote and it was in the same ballpark as the other. I was hoping to find a trailer from under a newer Bayliner 175/185 but that hasn't worked either. I am going to a marina today to look. I think that a late model used trailer is what we need.