Question about aftermarket trailers |
Post Reply ![]() |
Author | |
wtrshpdwn ![]() Newbie ![]() Joined: May-22-2021 Location: Chicago Status: Offline Points: 4 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Posted: May-22-2021 at 11:11pm |
I recently acquired a 1974 Ski Nautique, the only problem is the boat I purchased doesn't have a trailer. So I have been searching online for information on used and new trailers and what qualities are needed for the Nautique.
From what i'm hearing right now, a new trailer is a minimum 12 week wait time. So, since a used trailer fits my budget better anyways, I'm trying to stick with used.
I am new to the world of boats with inboard motors, and i'm worried about buying a trailer that won't be easy to load and unload with the stabilizer fins hitting the trailer. Most of the trailers I've found also appear to be for outboards in that they don't have a notched rear crossmember for the prop. Is it possible to buy a trailer like the photos below and expect it to work with my '74 Ski Nautique? Can I get away with finding a trailer that has the right weight rating, angled crossmembers, and just raise or install taller bunks as needed? Thanks!! ![]() ![]() |
|
![]() |
|
Jonny Quest ![]() Grand Poobah ![]() ![]() Joined: August-20-2013 Location: Utah--via Texas Status: Offline Points: 3009 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
You really need a trailer with a prop cage and that was designed for inboards. What you show in the pictures will challenge your ability to modify and weld. I'm especially not a fan of the roll-on-roll-off type trailers as I've seen several boats lying high-and-dry on the ramp after someone prematurely released the winch strap. Starting with a Collie and hoping for a Great Dane will likely cause you grief. Just my 2 cents.
JQ
|
|
Current
2003 Ski Nautique 206 Limited Previous 2001 Ski Nautique Open Bow 1994 Ski Nautique Open Bow Aqua skiing, ergo sum |
|
![]() |
|
8122pbrainard ![]() Grand Poobah ![]() ![]() Joined: September-14-2006 Location: Three Lakes Wi. Status: Offline Points: 41045 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Steven,
Modifying a trailer for your 74 can be done but depending on what you start with the mods can get involved. You've already mentioned weight rating and prop/rudder/skeg clearance but also think about axle position. If the trailer was made for an O/B, then the axle needs to be moved forward. What's you skill level for a project like this?
|
|
![]() |
|
wtrshpdwn ![]() Newbie ![]() Joined: May-22-2021 Location: Chicago Status: Offline Points: 4 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Thanks for the feedback. I totally understand the need for a prop and rudder cage to protect those items while using the trailer.
As far as skill level goes, I am confident in my ability to do pretty much everything except fab work. Which I realize is no small part of making these trailers work for my boat. Since I can’t seem to find any used trailers made for inboards, my hope was to find a workable trailer for an OB, then have a shop cut and weld the rear and middle crossmemeber to clear the gear on the bottom of the boat. Then I feel like I should be able to put the boat on and off, while I weigh the tongue weight to try and get it somewhere around 5-7% of total loaded weight. Most of the trailers I’m seeing have axle assemblies that are bolted rather than welded to the frame. |
|
![]() |
|
8122pbrainard ![]() Grand Poobah ![]() ![]() Joined: September-14-2006 Location: Three Lakes Wi. Status: Offline Points: 41045 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Yes, this is important so the position of the axle can be shifted.
|
|
![]() |
|
8122pbrainard ![]() Grand Poobah ![]() ![]() Joined: September-14-2006 Location: Three Lakes Wi. Status: Offline Points: 41045 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
You're a little low. Shoot for 10 to 15%
|
|
![]() |
|
WakeskateNW ![]() Groupie ![]() Joined: December-08-2016 Location: Lake Tapps, Wa Status: Offline Points: 65 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
here are a few pics of an ez loader modded to fit an '89. not ideal but it gets the job done.
![]() ![]() |
|
![]() |
|
wtrshpdwn ![]() Newbie ![]() Joined: May-22-2021 Location: Chicago Status: Offline Points: 4 |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
Thanks! This is exactly what I was trying to find in my searching. I know it’s not the proper or ideal way to do it, but for now this is exactly what I was thinking. |
|
![]() |
Post Reply ![]() |
|
Tweet
|
Forum Jump | Forum Permissions ![]() You cannot post new topics in this forum You cannot reply to topics in this forum You cannot delete your posts in this forum You cannot edit your posts in this forum You cannot create polls in this forum You cannot vote in polls in this forum |