Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I invest a boat trailer?
- Trailering your boat gives you freedom to boat wherever you want, whenever you want. Whether you want to take your boat on holiday, explore a new body of water or take your boat out for maintenance, you can transport your boat on your time with no marina restrictions or fees. Having a boat trailer is the quickest, cheapest and easiest way to transport and have access to your boat anytime.
How do I know what boat trailer I need for my boat?
- Determining the appropriate trailer for your boat will depend on the boat length, GVW (gross vehicle weight) or "wet" weight and boating preferences. To determine your boat length, measure from bow eye to transom plug. This measurement does not include any swim platforms or bow pulpits.
To determine GVW we use the following equation: dry weight of boat + gear (3% of dry weight, more if you are transporting a large fishing catch or a lot of gear) + fuel capacity (# of gallons x7) + water capacity (# of gallons x8) + engine weight = GVW
What is the difference between GVW and GVWR?
- GVW = Gross Vehicle Weight, is the total weight that will be on the trailer. Including fuel, gear, water and engine
- GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating is the maximum weight the trailer is designed to carry
- Both of these numbers are listed on the trailer and the title
Should I purchase a boat trailer with bunks or rollers?
- It depends on the intended use of your boat and preference.
Bunk Trailer:
- Straight forward and less expensive
- Simple design with no moving parts. The boat hull rests on a carpeted set of bunks.
- Less parts means less maintenance and less money
- The bunks must be submerged into the water to lift the boat from the bunks and launch it into the water
- Harder to launch in shallow or low tide areas
- Easier to steer the trailer
Roller Trailer
- Multiple plastic rollers attached to the axels
- Rollers work with gravity to make launching and re-loading easier in all conditions, including short boat ramps and low tide
- Less submersion means less corrosion however, does have more parts to replace
- Typically more expensive option due to additional moving parts
How do I know what boat trailer I need for my boat?
Determining the appropriate trailer for your boat will depend on the boat length, GVW (gross vehicle weight) or "wet" weight and boating preferences. To determine your boat length, measure from bow eye to transom plug. This measurement does not include any swim platforms or bow pulpits.
What is the difference between aluminum or galvanized steel?
Aluminum
- Suited for salt water use as they offer extreme corrosion resistance
- Lighter than galvanized counterparts reducing the overall load on the tow vehicle
- Aluminum is very appealing from the date of purchase and for years to come
- Usually highest cost option.
Galvanized Steel
- All surfaces of the trailer are coated (inside and out). Galvanizing will dull over time and may not be as visually appealing as painted or aluminum trailers
- Better for freshwater use but still able to use in saltwater if rinsed after use.
- Heavier than aluminum
What is the difference between torsion and spring axles?
- Torsion axles have the cushioning function built into the axle
- Springs are bolted or u-bolted to the axle
- Torsion axles will act independently side to side.
Do I need brakes on my trailer?
- Laws vary by state
- If you are transporting your boat out of state you will want to check the laws in all the states you travel through
- In Massachusetts, every trailer having an unladed weight of more than 10,000 lbs should be equipped with brakes
What brands of trailers do you sell?
- We currently sell Road King and Karavan Trailers.