Which trailer? Weight?

[Johnshan1]

Hey guys, im going to get a new trailer for my OB15 here pretty quick and I was wondering what you figure a safe bet is? I need to order the trailer and since the roads are still snow covered/wet I cant trailer to a weight station to get weighed. I built the boat, heres a picture: <br />

<br /><br />Let me add that I KNOW that this rig weighs under 1500 lbs as I tow another trailer that has been weighed and it pulls much harder than this boat. The boat pulls so easy I cant even feel it behind the truck while the other trailer is def. there for sure!<br /><br />I figure:<br /><br />-40 hp engine is 160#<br />-11 gallons of gas is 72#<br />-gear 100#<br />-battery 50#<br />-hull 600# (plans say the total weight of hull to be 300 lbs so double)<br /><br />That gives me a rough idea of just under 1000#<br /><br />What do you guys think?<br /><br />An 1100 lbs model for $560:<br /><br />

<br /><br />Or a 1300 lbs model for $780<br />

<br /><br />Thanks for any help and advice.<br /><br />-John

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Which trailer? Weight?

If you think the boat weight is at or just under 1000#, with an 1100# trailer you have very little margin (10% or less). Generally its the tires that make the difference on these small trailers. Check that first. Chances are these are 4.80x8 with about 560# max load rating. That same trailer is probably available with 5:30x12 wheels and it would have much higher capacity as well as being easier to tow (not that its a problem), but the larger diameter wheel simply rotates slower, builds less heat, and lasts longer. Next, that 1100# rating may be GVWR meaning gross vehicle weight rating which means you need to subtract the weight of the trailer. If it is listed as an 1100# capacity, that puts those little tires right at their limit. Not safe in my view. Check the ID label and you will likely see at least two and possibly three different tire sizes listed. For a little over $200 it appears the 1300# is the better trailer. Check Shorelanders web site.

 

[rwidman]

Re: Which trailer? Weight?

since the roads are still snow covered/wet I cant trailer to a weight station to get weighed.

My suggestion is to wait until you can get it weighed and make a decision based on the actual (loaded) weight.

 

[DJ]

Re: Which trailer? Weight?

johnshan,<br /><br />For what it is worth, the 1300 model looks like it would load allot easier.<br /><br />Trying to hit a single keel roller (1100 model) while loading, is difficult.

 

[Johnshan1]

Re: Which trailer? Weight?

Thanks for the input guys, the boat builders site that I got the plans from told me that the hull really weighs about 300# and that the 1100 lbs is just about perfect, the trailers used on these boats range from 1000-1200 lbs on average.<br /><br />The 1100 lbs is what the trailer can take for a boat weight.<br /><br />The tires are 12" and load B rated.<br /><br />It sounds like I can get away with the 1100 lbs unit, I would like the 1300 lbs but the extra $200 would run the boat for 1/2 the summer.<br /><br />I talked to the dealer tonight as well and he said why bother with the 1300 model. So I guess its 1100 lbs unless someone has another reason?<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[Johnshan1]

Re: Which trailer? Weight?

Oh I will also be adding 4' guide ons in the rear like I have on my current trailer, loading should be pretty easy with that setup, I am going to look at the 1100 in person and decide.

 

[roscoe]

Re: Which trailer? Weight?

Nice looking boat, you did a good job with it.