Drascomber
Well-Known Member
Dont dunk your brakes
After 50 years of trailing boats all over the UK and Europe I have learnt that with few exceptions (e.g. a bilge keeler from Poole Baiter if you can't wait for the tide) it is not necessary to immerse trailer brakes or even wheels if the boat is intended for trailer launching. If it isn't (e.g. fin keeler) get a crane launch.
You may have noticed that boat trailers have rollers and a winch - even the ones with bunks usually have keel rollers and a winch. Launch and recovery is what they are there for. Put the bow to the trailer and winch the boat on and if necessary winch it off.
Modern swinging cradle trailers make it possible to cope with most boats single handed - my present boat is a 21ft cabin sail boat with outboard auxiliary. Swinging cradle trailers have largely replaced the old breakback trailers as they make life so much easier. Simpler trailers just mean you need more hands - you still seldom have to get the brakes wet.
Regular maintenance is still essential. Otherwise you best assume that your brakes don't work and your rig is illegal. Not just because they don't work but also because you have failed to maintain it. (Check the small print on your insurance).
After 50 years of trailing boats all over the UK and Europe I have learnt that with few exceptions (e.g. a bilge keeler from Poole Baiter if you can't wait for the tide) it is not necessary to immerse trailer brakes or even wheels if the boat is intended for trailer launching. If it isn't (e.g. fin keeler) get a crane launch.
You may have noticed that boat trailers have rollers and a winch - even the ones with bunks usually have keel rollers and a winch. Launch and recovery is what they are there for. Put the bow to the trailer and winch the boat on and if necessary winch it off.
Modern swinging cradle trailers make it possible to cope with most boats single handed - my present boat is a 21ft cabin sail boat with outboard auxiliary. Swinging cradle trailers have largely replaced the old breakback trailers as they make life so much easier. Simpler trailers just mean you need more hands - you still seldom have to get the brakes wet.
Regular maintenance is still essential. Otherwise you best assume that your brakes don't work and your rig is illegal. Not just because they don't work but also because you have failed to maintain it. (Check the small print on your insurance).
