Trailer suggestions for inflatables

[Mr.X]

What do you think of this inexpensive trailer for a small inflatable < 110lbs carrying a 90 lb outboard? I'd be using it for salt and fresh.

Smith MultiSport Trailer

I have zero experience with trailering an inflatable boat. Some experience helping others with their larger boats 25+++.

Thanks.

X

 

[fstbttms]

The trailer itself is up to the job. Consideration #1 is whether or not it is galvanized, and this one is. If it's going in saltwater, you want it to be galvanized. However, the bunks would likely need to be replaced with flat planks. The upright bunks it comes with are really designed for a rigid hull, which your boat is not. In addition, you need a center bunk to support the keel of your boat. So what you want are outboard bunks to support the tubes and a center bunk to support the keel. Also, the outboard bunks should be several inches higher than the center bunk.

While this may sound like major modification of the trailer, it's really not that big of a deal. Pine shelving planks treated with waterproofing and covered in marine carpet are fine for bunks and galvanized Superstrut (available at any big box home improvement center) works great for cross members.

 

[Peter_C]

I have a small galvanized Pacific trailer for my 14' Zodiac with a 40HP. Works just fine. Last night I ordered another ball, and a tongue. The reason is to build a removable trailer extension, so my car does not have to get close to the water. We have surge that can move the water pretty far here.

My trailer only has two bunks and with my boat the important thing is to support the transom.

 

[Mr.X]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the feedback. It's certainly a bargain and seems to fit the bill for other boat projects like kayaks and stuff. I think I could add easily add bunks. I also see the need for a trailer extension in Ca...I remember that pic of your terrific Zodiac at the Breakwater. Where I'll be launching is pretty calm, though I can't really say I know the pitch of the launch ramps.

BTW - I used to live in San Francisco, rode my bike in and around Santa Rosa, dove Monterey and Pt. Arena in the olden days. Miss California!!!

Cheers,

X

 

[Nemrod]

It is really best if the supports go under the sponsons. I no longer have a trailer for my Novurania but I had 12 inch carpeted bunks under the sponsons and a center support down the keel. I had a motor clamp as well. My boat is a wooden keel, fabric bottom, wood and aluminum floor boat, not a RIB.

I think you can make that trailer work with some mods.

N

 

[Peter_C]

One other suggestion I would have is to keep an eye on Craigslist for a used trailer. That is if you do not mind a used one. I see them go for dirt cheap as in less than $300 and most are a little heavier duty with larger tires etc. Of course a used one may require a little work.

For some stupid reason the trailer my older boat came with had non sealed tail lights I wound up installing some nice LED trailer lights.

Listed in my home area although it shows an FL location?, but you'll get the point.
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/boa/1620969861.html

 

[dannobee]

The deal with inflatables on trailers is that the boats sit up relatively high compared to a v-hull boat. This means, depending on the steepness of the boat ramp, your vehicle may be in the water before the boat floats off of the trailer.

One way to combat this is by having a tongue extension. I've seen a slick one with spring loaded pins that you pull out, then drive forward a bit, then the pin slips into the next hole and the trailer is 3 feet longer. That trailer can likely be modified for something like that.

 

[Nemrod]

The deal with inflatables on trailers is that the boats sit up relatively high compared to a v-hull boat. This means, depending on the steepness of the boat ramp, your vehicle may be in the water before the boat floats off of the trailer.

One way to combat this is by having a tongue extension. I've seen a slick one with spring loaded pins that you pull out, then drive forward a bit, then the pin slips into the next hole and the trailer is 3 feet longer. That trailer can likely be modified for something like that.

Yes, mine sat too high also. But, my 14 footer has launching wheels. I never launched it directly from the trailer, I would flip the landing gear down on the transom and lift the bow up and shove the boat off the trailer onto it's on gear and then roll it to the water. I launched it several times across the beach even. It just depends upon how large and heavy the boat is. With a 25 Merc, ours is light enough to handle that way, with the larger 35 and 50 we used on it some, not so easy anymore.

N

 

[fstbttms]

My trailer was a bare frame until I added these bunks for my 12.5' Avon.

 

[Nemrod]

My trailer was a bare frame until I added these bunks for my 12.5' Avon.

That is exactly what mine looked like.

N