Trailer build axle selection.

[tramsdell]

Hey guys, as stated in another thread my current trailer is pretty punky. I was thinking of builing a new trailer with brakes and so on, but i don't know whqt axle i should start with as far as weight rating, i would think a 3500lb axle would suffice but i could be wrong... boat is a starcraft aluminum full beam windshield with casting deck in the bow , 15gal tank, and a 375lb outboard on it i just dont have a guestimation of full loaded weight of the boat other than a wild arsed guess of about 3100lb with gas and fishing gear ?


edit : boat is 18ft long

 

[ahicks]

In a perfect world (that we seldom actually see), tires and axle would be rated for double the actual every day load.

When you start seeing capacities up much over 3500 lbs, you'll also see tandem axles used more frequently.

Bottom line, I would likely go with a 3500 lb axle myself, for an average alum. fishing boat.

 

[tramsdell]

Yeah, im not ready or willing to build a tandem from scatch lol, and i dont neeeed brakes right now, i just wanna put them on because the next tow vehicle will likely be smaller than the f150

 

[Alumarine]

My 18ft. Sylvan I/O (similar to starcraft) is 2137 lbs with kicker, fuel etc.
Trailer is 850 for approx 3000 total.
You'll be fine with the 3500 lb axle.

 

[gm280]

Just thinking out loud to myself here. Static weight is a heck of a lot different then dynamic weigh. A trailer setup that weighs in at 3000 lbs statically, will exert way way more weigh as it trailers down the road hitting bumps and road imperfections. JMHO

 

[Starcraft5834]

if you can do it.. go heavier on the axle....ive got a new toon, and 115 merc. toon is 1850lb, the motor is 370, the trailer I bought.. galvanized tandom with breaks on (4) wheels, capable of holding 5K.. it has 2200 sitting on it.. trailer is 1000 lb.. total with gear 3500 ish.. towing with Honda Pilot. that gives me less stress trailering it knowing the trailer isnt stressed out too....my 2 c

 

[SkaterRace]

I'd look to get a bigger one if you can afford it, a 3500lb one might do but I'd feel a lot safer with more. Like my SUV can tow 5k lbs and my setup weights in around 4k lbs so I'm looking to upgrade because that is too close for my liking.

 

[jimmbo]

Don't go too much extra Capacity, it can make for a very stiff suspension and a jarring ride for the boat

If you can, get a Torsion Axle. Much better towing experience.