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It's time to replace my rusting, oversized, and very heavy trailer.
I've talked to about 5 local dealers plus a couple of giant outlet places more distant. I'm narrowing down to two choices of bunk trailer: A Load Rite 16150076V for just over $800, or a Sealion S-16-1500 for a bit under $800. Close enough that price is not an issue in the selection. Both are 1500 lb capacity, galvanized, 2x3 box frame construction, have 12" wheels with load rating C tires, and leaf springs. The Sealion is somewhat lighter, easy to fit in the garage at 17'-5" long with a 68" overall width. With just 52" between the fenders, the boat will have to sit above the fenders. The Load Rite is recommended by several dealers, and will just squeeze into the garage at 18'-3" overall length and a 76" overall width. With 62" between the fenders, I should be able to set the boat lower on the trailer, a good thing for the ramp, but not too much as I want to be able to lower the motor fully with the boat on the trailer, even though I trailer with it up.
I figure the narrower track of the Sealion will help in my walking the trailer around - I have to wrestle it by hand from the driveway to the grass nearby, so that and lighter weight is important. But I wonder if the narrower track of the Sealion will be marginal on the road.
Any opinions or experience to relate wiould be most appreciated.
Jim
My boat didn't come with a trailer, I bought a "Cox" trailer *18 years ago for my 15' sport, not sure if they still even make them. It was more expensive than the other trailers but, was beefier with 4 cross members instead of only 3.
mw
* I only use it twice a year splash in/out for the season.
Thanks Matt. Unlike you, I'm in and out all the time, only sometimes overnight on the mooring buoy. In the interest of ease in moving the boat around detached from the vehicle, I think I'm leaning towards the trailer with the narrower wheel track. Too much work now to get her out of the yard and put her away.
Jim
