Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

[Mark42]

I have to get a 14ft fiberglas MFG Niagara (aprox 600lbs) off the old trailer and onto the new trailer. Right now the outboard is not on the boat. The easiest method would be to float the boat off, then back onto the new trailer. But the problem is the new bunk trailer has not had the rollers and bunks adjusted to the boat. So I am thinking that it would be better to transfer the boat at home, where I can then take the time to make all the adjustments to rollers and bunks before having to trailer the boat.<br /><br />I have heard about pulling the trailer out from under the boat, but have never done this, and not sure what to use to support the boat.<br /><br />Any suggestions on the best way to do a dry transfer? Should I make a "rough" setup to rollers and bunks and do a water transfer? <br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />Mark.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

I'm sure you will get other suggestions, and may have a few ideas yourself, here is my idea, seen it done with an approx 700# Alumacraft 16'.<br /><br />1- Park the old trailer with the boat, place the tongue on the ground.<br />2- With new trailer attached to vehicle, back it in front of the old trailer and boat (backing over the tongue.<br />3- Chock all the wheels to prevent movement.<br />4- Remove the winch post from the old trailer.<br />5- Back the new trailer as far under the boat as you can.<br />6- Remove the transom tie downs from the boat, after the new trailer is in position.<br />7- Attach the winch strap from the new trailer and winch the boat onto the new trailer.<br /><br />Before you start, you may want to coat the new trailer bunks with silicone spray or WD-40. It makes launching and loading so much easier. I can push my 1200# boat off the trailer with one hand, without even having the bunks in the water.

 

[Bass Runner]

Re: Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

That method will work or just measure how high the bunks are in relation to the rollers on the old trailer and adjust the bunks on the new trailer then just get some old tires and push or pull the boat off the old trailer on them, then move the old trailer and back the new one in position and winch your boat up on it, then check how the boat sits on the trailer and make any final adjustments to the bunks. (don't leave the new trailer hooked to the tow truck as you will have to raise the front of the trailer to get the boat started on it) unless you have a tilt trailer then it will take two people to load it.

 

[quantumleap]

Re: Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

Buy a case of beer and invite a few friends over.<br />"Hey while you guys are over here..."

 

[wajajaja]

Re: Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

could try a local marina, maybe the one you bought the trailer from and have them lift off and set down with thier boat lift.

 

[Mark42]

Re: Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

Thanks for all the great suggestions. You guys are the best. I plan on trying the trailer to trailer transfer. If that doesn't work, I'll try the beer and buddies routine. <br /><br />I am really getting excited about working on the boat. Should be ready by the 4th of July!<br /><br />Wish me luck<br /><br />Mark.

 

[Bass Runner]

Re: Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

I still like quantumleaps idea.

 

[achris]

Re: Suggestions on transferring boat to new trailer

I pull my 4,500lb cabin crusier off the trailer and onto a few old tyres when I need to work on the axles, without any problems. First I tie the back of the boat to a tree or solid post, then pull the trailer out, slowly, putting tyres under as I go. To put it back on I just hook the winch cable on and let the winch pull the trailer in under the boat. Works a treat....<br /><br />Chris.