What is a Boat Trailer ?

A boat trailer is a wheeled frame which helps to transport boats on road by towing it behind a vehicle.

What are the different kinds of boat trailers ?
Boat trailers can be simple and basic for trailing small boats but has complicated designs for larger boats. The suitable model for a boat trailer is usually decided by the boat’s weight, overall weight, width, center of gravity, hull shape, engine and other factors. Some boats, for instance, the sailboat requires a special boat trailer because of its deep keel and high winch stand. Some of the new powerboats have boat trailers made especially for them. They are equipped with custom chrome wheels, electronic brakes, other accessories, and even matching color scheme.

How does a boat trailer look ?
Boat trailers have a single, double or triple axle depending on the capacity of its weight. Small boat trailers have a manual winch to haul the boat on a trailer while the larger trailers have one or two speed automatic winches. Most boat trailers are made of welded steel construction with weatherproof paint. The light and axle of the boat trailer should be fully submersible for launching.

The boat trailer has one or more sets of ‘bunks” or treated wood planks which are covered with durable indoor or outdoor material. The bunks are positioned lengthwise and slanted on both the sides of the trailer with the hull resting against these bunks. It is the shape of the hull which determines the positioning of the bunks. Most boat trailers have stationary bunks although some have adjustable bunks.

How does a boat trailer work ?
Boat trailers are connected to cars or trucks using a coupler which is positioned at the end of the tow bar. The coupler is designed to slide down over the ball hitch on the vehicle. If the boat trailer is not in use, the coupler can be fitted with an optional flat lip coupler. This will protect the boat trailer from theft because it will make it impossible to drop the coupler onto a ball hitch.

Precautions while using a boat trailer
It is better to follow a few guidelines to help towing, launching and retrieving your boat. Firstly, you should ensure that all boat trailers have brake, tail and clearance lights. Although the laws vary according to the state, it is important to verify the rules form the motor vehicle requirement. The towing vehicle must be big enough to handle the boat, trailer and the gear put together. So you should ensure that your boat trailer has the required towing capacity. You should never make sure the safety chains that run from the trailer tongue are firm and fixed crossways to keep the trailer from hitting the pavement in case the hitch fails. You should be careful not to come in contact with the winch or the winch handle because it spins at a rapid rate and can injure your face or hands if you are not careful. The tongue weight or the amount of weight that the trailer carries should be 10% of the total weight of both the boat and trailer. If the tongue weight is too high or too low, then the towing vehicle is bound to get out of balance. When towing, ensure at regular intervals that the tie downs, wheel bearings, hitch and safety chains are in order. Before launching, disconnect the trailer’s electrical systems and check the launch ramp, making sure the drain plug is installed. You should ensure that the dock lines and fenders are ready. It requires skill to back a trailer down a launch ramp.

Article Contributed By: Sabina Zacharias

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