Trailer size

[Slippery When Wet]

First off my first larger boat Iam very green to the boating world so excuse my ignorance.I have purchased a 23 ft wellcraft nova xl 350 mercruiser,the boat did not come with a trailer so Iam on the hunt and reading as much as possible about bunk style,roller style,and hopeing to pick up a good used trailer,my question is just how long should this trailer be,should there be any hangover at all,I looked at a couple and they claimed they used them for 23 footers but they looked short to me they would have left 2 feet of hangover.All my boats in the past were 16 to 17 foot fishing boats and where the trailer ended so did the boat.Thanks in advance S.W.W

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Trailer size

Every bunk trailer I have ever had supports the hull all the way to the transom. If you are going the bunk route, I would definitely do the same.

Call up a trailer manufacturer and see what they recommend.

 

[Knightgang]

Re: Trailer size

Look at www.magictilt.com and brouse their selection. Most of these are Bunk Beam style trailers. They would be perfect for your boat. The reason I say to look there is because most of their trailers are ajustable to fit several boats within a 2-3 foot range.

measure the trailer from the most forward position that the winch tower can be placed to the back enfd of the bunks. Add about 6" and this should be about the maximum length boat you will want to put on the trailer...

 

[WIMUSKY]

Re: Trailer size

Same with the roller trailers. You want the rollers as close to the transon as possible so you don't develop a hook in the hull. I'm a big Shoreland'r fan. That's what I use on both my boats.

 

[Capt'n Chris]

Re: Trailer size

I seen a number of boats rigged by dealers who will use a trailer that is too short and will flip the bunks to extend to or beyond the transom. That will leave less bunk fore to support the hull. They do it to save a buck and that is not right. The rearmost frame member ideally will be directly under the transom and the short end of the bunk toward the stern.

 

[cribber]

Re: Trailer size

Look for a trailer that will haul a 22-24 foot boat at your weight and you should be good to go. Check the EZ Loader or other manufacturer websites to see what's out there and get trailer dimensions that fit your boat to base your purchase on used or new.