Modify old trailer or buy a new one?

RICHNLE

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I have a 2002 Tournament 192. I bought the boat used and stuck it on a 20 year old EZ-Loader roller trailer that used to hold a different boat. The trailer is in decent shape for its age since it was generally dunked only in fresh water and only twice a year. The problem is that the tongue weight with this boat is over 625 lbs (about twice what it should be), and there is no further adjustment to move the boat backwards. The only other option would be to move the wheels forward about 18", which would require drilling new holes in the trailer frame. The trailer is single axle and I am nervous about moving the wheels so much, since there would be much weight behind the wheels and I am worried about losing control of the rig if I needed to make an abrupt maneuver. I will be trailering 200 miles a couple of times a year plus some short trips. Any thoughts would be appreciated as I have limited trailering experience. Suggestions on new trailers would also be appreciated. The boat is used in CT and NY.
 

BobP

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Does the trailer capacity rating equal or better to the 192?

When you load it at you did, where does the transom sit relative to last trailer support ?

As far as moving the axle forward, too far forward is not good. Suggest you contact EZ loader, if they are still in business, ask ask them to advise on moving axle.
 

RICHNLE

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The trailer is rated for 3,500 lbs, so it is OK for this boat. The most aft rollers are about a foot forward of the transom, and the cross member supporting the rollers is a couple of feet in front of that. I agree that it would be wise to call EZ-Loader. I will do that. If I do go with buying a new trailer, any opinions on bunk vs roller and brands?
 

BobP

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That's strange that the last rollers are so far forward, should be much closer to the stern too, meaning you would have to moceteh baot furher forward, and axle that much further rearward. Can your bow stand move forward more?
Better check with EZ Loader.

Others can jump in on new trailer recommendations. I had a Load Rite dual axle roller for my 20 ft Overnighter, very good trailer it was. I picked larger wheels and extra rollers. Sold it cheap after only a half of dozen uses, guy got it off me for a steal !
 

Curmudgeon

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Your trailer is marginal for that boat when including motor/equipment/fuel/gear, and most often overlooked, the weight of the trailer.

You might get it to work fine IF you get the holes plumb, and IF you guess right on where to put 'em, IF you guess right on weight distribution, and you might still have to add brakes to be in compliance with state law. Good luck with it IF you decide to go that route ... :?
 

RICHNLE

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Thank you both for your replies. I am leaning toward just getting a proper trailer for the boat, but will touch base with EZ-Loader as well.
 

gradyfish22

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I's say lean towards a new trailer, or look for a used one that fits the boat better, many slighty used trailers can be found at trailer shops and they can adjust them to fit the boat right if it is the right size to start. Are the frames the right size? You may only need a new longer trailer tongue if so but it does nto sound that way. Call EZloader, if they are not in business call a local guy and bring the trailer and boat by for him to look at and recommend options, likely he will say you need a new one though.
 

RICHNLE

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I spoke with the folks at Tidewater Trailers today about their trailers. They make what they call a pivoting bunk trailer which you can get with poly covers on the bunks (4 of them). Supposedly this design provides the even support and consistent alignment of a bunk trailer with easier launching and retrieval in shallower water. I am curious if anyone has this type of trailer and if anyone has any comments on the Tidewater brand in general. Thanks.