Sizing a trailer for a boat

[colbyt]

The questions are fairly simple.

What is the maximum a small tinny with a small or no motor should extend behind the rear of the trailer?

What is the minimum distance behind the coupler for the front of the boat to allow safe turning?

I have viewed a lot of conflicting info online and want some answers from real people.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Sizing a trailer for a boat

Assuming we are talking about a 12 or 14' boat....

You can let her hang off the boat a foot or two without a motor.
I would not do this with a motor.


Coupler to boat, a foot, even less. It can't get any closer to the truck.

Here is my jon boat, if it would hit the truck, I've already jack-knifed it and have bigger issues.

 

[UncleWillie]

Re: Sizing a trailer for a boat

What is the minimum distance behind the coupler for the front of the boat to allow safe turning?
..

The real question is, "What is the minimum distance that you can still drop the tailgate or open the rear hatch?"

 

[colbyt]

Re: Sizing a trailer for a boat

The real question is, "What is the minimum distance that you can still drop the tailgate or open the rear hatch?"

Thanks to both of you. Your real question is a different and very valid take. I will measure that

A foot to 18" is the max I would need. For a 14' boat I would just adjust the winch post. A 15 would need to hang over just a bit. I am determined to keep this old, tilt Holsclaw trailer when I upgrade the boat. It is the smoothest pulling thing I have ever pulled.