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Posts: 1769
Location: Algonquin, ILL | Saw this on MSN, thought newbies and some of old timers could use a refresher
http://autos.msn.com/advice/article.aspx?contentid=4021127&src=LP%2...
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Posts: 8865
| This is great stuff!
People don't realize that the GCWR and GVWR of your vehicle includes passengers and cargo...
Full tank of gas in your truck: 35 gallons x 8 pounds = 280 pounds you have to subtract
You: (Well, ME anyway) 200 pounds you have to subtract
Your buddy: 200 pounds (be nice)
Add in gear and a full tank of gas in the boat and you can easily surpass 1,000 pounds.
Jeff |
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Posts: 358
| That is a good overview John, and I think a lot of folks aren't aware some of those details expressed in that article. I also believe that most first time boat owners dont pay enough attention to the trailer under that new/used boat that they just bought.
For those of you considering purchasing a new/used boat, here is something I suggest to you. Make sure that you have calculated the gross weight of the boat and all its contents. For example, lets say a 2005 Alumacraft Trophy 180; Dry Wt=1392 lbs, 40 gallons gas= 332 lbs, 150 HP OB (2-stroke) = 415 lbs, 3-Batteries = 100 lbs, Misc Gear = 250 lbs. Rough total weight sitting on that trailer = 2,489 lbs.
Ok, you've got the wt, now take a look at the trailer. How much loading can the leaf springs take? I learned about this myself, the hard way. My rig weighs approx. 2,800 lbs (GVW) I found out that the leaf springs on my trailer were rated at 1700 lbs each (total load bearing rating at rest) = 3400 total, less GVW of my rig = 600 lbs remaining. Keep in mind that these numbers dont reflect any shock loads that the trailer may see (potholes, severe dips/bumps, etc.) Well after one of my leaf springs broke, I replaced both with springs rated at 3000 lbs each. Brakes, I cannot stress enough how important trailer brakes are. I believe that article recommended trailer brakes when the GVW exceeds 1500 lbs.
So, for those of you looking at a new boat purchase, its in your best interests to do a little leg work and investigation. Life is an adventure and a constant learning process, but that doesnt mean that you have to spend part of your life on the side of a highway!
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Posts: 2091
Location: Stevens Point, WI | Very well put xllund! |
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Posts: 2893
Location: Yahara River Chain | WOW! In some states they require trailer brakes if trailer weights over 1500#??????
I wonder how many of you guys with heavy 16 ft boat & > 17ft aluminum boats have them?
I have a Tuffy Esox Mag tiller and bought a trailer with surge drum brakes. The dealer tried to talk me out of that - can you imagine? I have since convertered the drums to discs and it the best. Don't cut corners on the trailer and get one heavy enough (how many of you throw a ton of gear in your boat before heading to CA?) and if you have a question about needing brakes, get them!
I saw a good one today at IFalls as a boat/trailer tried crossing those train tracks just before the pay booth, the axle folded under the frame. Not a good way to start a vacation. |
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