What to look for in a trailer for an inflatable

[Tideline]

In looking at new (there are not many second hand trailers about!) trailer for a 3.8metre air floor inflatable, I have come across different ones ranging from £400 to £700 - any suggestions what I should be aware of when buying a trailer? Thanks.

 

[Moonshiners]

Don't buy a painted one (which most likely is second hand and old) which could be hiding quite nasty things no matter what the story. Decent Galvanised trailer in the best condition you can afford. general condition of wheels tyres and bearings, if unsure replace the bearings...

 

[Cliveshep]

I had one made for me in aluminium, my design criteria was that the transom, side tubes to either side, and tubes at the bow, had to be properly supported as if the engines were left on that weight ought to be on the trailer and not squashing the tubes or floor. My floor has a inflated keel section, and floor boards over so not quite the same as your air floor but one principle is the same. Unlike a rigid-hulled boat, it is the transom, side tubes and bow that have to be supported whereas on a rigid hull the weight is carried on the keel rollers with side chocks only for stability.

The other main criteriea was that the trailer must have no sharp corners or projections to abrade or cause damage, and capacity to include for boat, engines, fuel, and all the junk like anchor etc one chucks in it.

Can I also say that it should have one item I omitted on my design, thinking it was unnecessary, and that is side poles to stop the boat drifting off the trailer centreline on a bumpy road, and a bow snubber to keep it properly in one place fore & aft. This may sound obvious with hindsight but not necessarily so at the time until the boat goes lop-sided on the trailer - embarassing and likely to interest Plod!

 

[savageseadog]

[ QUOTE ]
In looking at new (there are not many second hand trailers about!) trailer for a 3.8metre air floor inflatable, I have come across different ones ranging from £400 to £700 - any suggestions what I should be aware of when buying a trailer? Thanks.

[/ QUOTE ] There should be the same number of wheels on both sides.

 

[Sans Bateau]

[ QUOTE ]


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In looking at new (there are not many second hand trailers about!) trailer for a 3.8metre air floor inflatable, I have come across different ones ranging from £400 to £700 - any suggestions what I should be aware of when buying a trailer? Thanks.


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There should be the same number of wheels on both sides.

[/ QUOTE ]

I saw the post, had an idea what to say, read on down then found you had posted what I was going to say! Stupid boy! /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

 

[Tideline]

Thanks for the suggestions - I will steer clear of painted trailers and will make sure it has all its wheels!