would you tow with slightly bent tongue on trailer?

[dave buckner]

used boat im looking at has bend on one side of tongue pinching in aroung 1/4". trailer is supposed to tow fine anyway. is this a "no no"? thanks, dave

 

[Tinman]

Re: would you tow with slightly bent tongue on trailer?

It really depends on what type boat/trailer combo you are talking about, I mean, if it is a 34' steel boat on a already overloaded trailer the 1/4" dent might be a big deal, If it is on a 16' aluminum fishing boat that weighs maybe 1000lbs or less it is probably not a big deal, If you are seriously considering buying the package go drag it down the road yourself and make sure it pulls like it should.<br /><br />Tinman

 

[JB]

Re: would you tow with slightly bent tongue on trailer?

Hi, Dave.<br /><br />I agree with Tinman. It depends.<br /><br />It is a matter of wheel alignment. If the trailer axle is perpendicular to the direction of travel and the trailer tires are parallel to the tow vehicle tires you will have no problem.<br /><br />If not, you will use up a set of tires about every 100 to 1000 miles.<br /><br />Hook it up, tow it a few feet in a straight line, then measure the distance from each wheel center to the center of the rear wheel of your tow vehicle. Those distances must match, exactly.<br /><br />A trailer shop can correct alignment for you if it is needed.<br /><br />Good luck.