What is Better... Galvanized or Aluminum Boat Trailers?
Probably one of the more common questions our customers ask, and the answer’s not all that simple. First, both materials are highly corrosion resistant and exhibit sufficient strength for the task.
Steel arrives raw, then is machined, bent, and drilled. Once processing is complete, it is sent to be hot dipped in a molten zinc solution that completely coats the steel inside and out and transforms it from a rust prone material to one that resists corrosion and is even self-healing. Steel is extremely strong and durable, and is ideally suited to high stress usage such as loading of a roller trailer. Its major disadvantage against aluminum is weight.
Aluminum frames are very strong, sleek, and are found to be visually attractive to many owners. Others choose aluminum over steel as a weight saving measure. With trailers over a 3000 pound capacity, an aluminum frame needs to be much thicker than steel for a given capacity reducing the weight advantage a bit. Some claim a better resale value with aluminum as well.
What length trailer do I need?
Measure along the center line of your boat from the bow-eye to transom, excluding the bow pulpit and swim platform, or "European" type transoms. See descriptive diagram here. If your boat has a bow pulpit, you may want to consider a longer tongue option or bow boards which force the hull to remain level when launching or loading.
What capacity trailer do I need?
To calculate needed trailer capacity, calculate the total weight including the boat, the engine, a full fuel tank (approximately 7 lbs. per gallon), full water tanks (if applicable) and your personal gear. A good rule of thumb is to use 10% of boat, motor, and liquid weights for personal gear. Select a trailer with the next highest capacity rating. If you intend to carry additional gear or luggage in the boat over long distances, consider the weight of these items, too.
((boat + engine + ((fuel x 7 lb / gal)+(water x 8 lb / gal))) x (total x .1))
Should my trailer have brakes on it?
The answer here depends on the size and weight of the boat being towed, the size and type of vehcle doing the towing and most importantly the Federal, State and Local laws in effect where you tow your boat.
Please refer to this Brake Law Sheet for more information. The sheet is a guide only and may not reflect current federal and state laws. Always contact the appropriate government organization for accurate information.
