Trailer Recommendations

Just Learning

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jan 28, 2003
Messages
33
Have a Sea Ray 190 that I need to put a new trailer under. Current one is painted so the few times I've launced in salt water have wreaked havoc. Brakes are completely shot. Want to go to galvanized. Anyway, would like some experienced opinions/thoughts on trailer brands. Specifically-- EZ Loaders, Magnum, and McClain.<br />Also, thoughts/recommendation on disc vs. drum brakes.<br />Thanks!!
 

jimmbo

Supreme Mariner
Joined
May 24, 2004
Messages
13,447
Re: Trailer Recommendations

I've had three EZ Loaders. They have been good trailers, and can be customized with many accessories. Disc brakes on a trailer are like disc brakes on a car, better fade resistence. Unlike drums they work equally well in reverse and therefore need to be locked out while backing up.
 

rwidman

Lieutenant
Joined
May 27, 2004
Messages
1,396
Re: Trailer Recommendations

Thoughts:<br /><br />Disk brakes are said to be better than drum brakes. As jimmbo stated, you need to have a free backing solenoid to disable the brakes while backing and the vehicle needs to be wired for this feature. Most but not all drum brakes are ineffective in reverse so it's not a problem.<br /><br />Check the state regulations in your home state and nearby states for brake requirements. Most states require brakes above a certain weight and some states require brakes on all axles.<br /><br />Look for galvanized or stainless steel hardware on the trailer. Some manufacturers make a galvanized trailer and put plated (not galvanized) hardware on it. Mine's like that. The U bolts are severely rusted after two years.<br /><br />Torsion axles are quieter than leaf springs and are maintenance free, no springs, shackles, etc. to rust. They are typically bolted to the frame so it's much easier to get the correct tongue weight by moving the axles once the boat is properly positioned on the trailer.<br /><br />Get LED lighting if it's available. Well worth it in increased brightness and reliability.<br /><br />Make sure the trailer capacity is high enough for your boat when filled with fuel, food, ice, water toys, etc. Try to get it weighed, don't rely on the manufacturer's published weight. Mine was off by over 1,000 lb.
 

burp

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 3, 2002
Messages
363
Re: Trailer Recommendations

Look at Prestige, they make a custom built, galvanized trailer which is a welded frame before it is galvanized. No clamps and bolts to rust and rattle like most galvanized trailers do. Torsion axles, 6 bunks and GREAT customer service are standard. Disk or drum brakes are available. Prestige is based out of Illinois but will soon have a mfg. plant in east Texas.
 

lark2004

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jul 12, 2004
Messages
1,080
Re: Trailer Recommendations

as far as brakes go, a company over here called BAINBRIDGE TECHNOLOGIES has developed bronze rotors and calipers. never rust.
 

tommays

Admiral
Joined
Jul 4, 2004
Messages
6,768
Re: Trailer Recommendations

there is no drum brake that does well in saltwater disk brakes are much better but will still require upkeep <br /><br />tommays
 

Just Learning

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jan 28, 2003
Messages
33
Re: Trailer Recommendations

Thanks for the input. I'm also wondering about any negatives of aluminum trailers. Think i'm leaning to disc brakes and the LED lights, great idea.
 

rwidman

Lieutenant
Joined
May 27, 2004
Messages
1,396
Re: Trailer Recommendations

I don't have one and I have rollers, but I have heard of them actually floating when empty because of the buoyancy of the tires and wooden bunks.
 
Top