Trailer Question - want to drill a new hole into the frame to move crossbar supporting wobble roller

[NSiatra]

I want to drill a new hole in the frame to move the crossbar supporting the wobble rollers forward toward the wheels. Will this affect any structural functionality or capability? I just bought this trailer used and my hurricane fits almost perfectly on it for the exception of the back of the hull rolls just an hair past the last roller. I still have to move the winch stand back a few inches as well. See pic.

This is where I’d like to make the new holes and move crossbar up.

 

[dubs283]

I would move the winch stand first and see if the boat fits. Middle of aft rollers should be flush with the transom chine

I think if you move the crossbar forward the rig would be too tongue light

If it were my trailer I'd convert it to bunks. Roller trailers are too much hassle

 

[airshot]

It appears that the section with the rollers slides into a larger area...is that adjustable?? Mabey just sliding it forward would work ?? However, if you need to drill a new hole I don't see it being an issue. As far as tongue weight, there are a number of ways to create more tongue weight...get that boat sitting correctly first, then move onto proper balance on the tongue.
I love my roller trailers, would never go back to a bunk, but then again, I have no complaints on my bunk trailers!
I always go overboard getting my trailers setup properly so I don't have issues....

 

[NSiatra]

It appears that the section with the rollers slides into a larger area...is that adjustable?? Mabey just sliding it forward would work ?? However, if you need to drill a new hole I don't see it being an issue. As far as tongue weight, there are a number of ways to create more tongue weight...get that boat sitting correctly first, then move onto proper balance on the tongue.
I love my roller trailers, would never go back to a bunk, but then again, I have no complaints on my bunk trailers!
I always go overboard getting my trailers setup properly so I don't have issues....

No unfortunately that piece doesn’t slide forward. I thought so at first too, but that overlapping piece is just the bracket that supports the fender. The reason for moving the winch stand back is because the boat was about 1 to 2 inches away from resting on the bow roller.

 

[airshot]

Those furthest to the rear rollers need to be right at the transom edge !! On my boat the rollers at the back are about centered on the transom edge when bow is tight against the stop...this is how it should be... Winch stands are typically adjustable, so get the boat in the correct position and then adjust everything to hold it there !! When you drill, start with a small, mabey 1/4" to start, then use a drill bit the finnish size you need, use oil to keep it cool. Chamfer the edges, then paint or use some anti rust coating on the new metal exposed. Slather that new bolt ( stainless or galvanized) with plenty of grease before installing it. We need more pics, good luck and keep us posted !!!

 

[NSiatra]

Those furthest to the rear rollers need to be right at the transom edge !! On my boat the rollers at the back are about centered on the transom edge when bow is tight against the stop...this is how it should be... Winch stands are typically adjustable, so get the boat in the correct position and then adjust everything to hold it there !! When you drill, start with a small, mabey 1/4" to start, then use a drill bit the finnish size you need, use oil to keep it cool. Chamfer the edges, then paint or use some anti rust coating on the new metal exposed. Slather that new bolt ( stainless or galvanized) with plenty of grease before installing it. We need more pics, good luck and keep us posted !!!

Thanks! I’m gonna try first just moving the winch back. I’m hoping that should do it. Appreciate the help regarding the holes. Im a little green when it comes to the trailering aspect.

 

[Lou C]

Yep the frame is pretty thick so you really gotta take time & be patient drilling it. On my roller trailer I made sure the boat was properly supported then moved the axle till I got enough tongue weight.
Here most use rollers due to water depth changes of 6’-7’ with the tides. My local ramp is to shallow for a bunk trailer I’d have to use the steeper town ramp.
Our local ramp is getting replaced this summer I HOPE they make it a bit steeper & longer…

 

[airshot]

Thanks! I’m gonna try first just moving the winch back. I’m hoping that should do it. Appreciate the help regarding the holes. Im a little green when it comes to the trailering aspect.

When you drill the larger hole be sure your drill is going slower than when you drilled the smaller 1/4" hole. Squirt some oil or wd40 on while drilling to keep the drill bit cooler.