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I got a decent deal ($950) for a good 1966 13 footer and matching 66' 40hp Evinrude (with cracked lower gearcase...) with not-so-good a trailer. I want to tow it from Ohio to the Keys next month, and I found a good used Shoreland'r Tadpole trailer (with 5-lug 12-inch wheels) that is rated for up to a 14 foot boat for $200 and wonder if that model is a decent match for the rig. I can't find a Tadpole model listed on the current Shoreland'r web site, so figure it must not be carried any longer by them. Any thoughts, folks?
Doesn't sound like too bad of a deal. Is it galvanized? Be sure to jack up the trailer and spin the wheels to check if the bearings are in good shape. If they make noise, the tire feels like they are scrubbing while rotated or the wheel is loose when pulling it side to side, they will need to be replaced. Also, check to see if the tires are dry rotted. If they are, you'll have to replace them as well to make the trek safely to the Keys.
How does the trailer light wiring look? The lenses? How do the bunks look?
If they are all in good shape, about $200 is a fair price. If it's rated for a 14' boat, it's shouldn't have any problems with your whaler.
Edited by CES on 02/17/10 - 12:28 PM
Cliff
1966 13' Sport with a 1993 40hp Yamaha 2 Smoker
If I were going to tow that far I'd carry a lot of extra parts and tools even with a newer trailer. Extra wheel hub with bearings, spare tire etc. And check the U-bolts holding the axle to the springs to make sure they are not too rusted. www.iboats.com has an excellent trailer and towing forum. The trailer you bought does sound like a very good choice.
Thanks, guys; great info. I haven't bought the trailer yet, I just didn't want to drive all the way over to see it if it didn't even sound like it was enough trailer to haul a boat that I know is heavy for its length. I guess they use the Tadpole models for PWC trailers too, so I was/am skeptical. Do I want to stick with the '66 Evinrude since it's a matched set (both 1966)? As much as I'm liking Whalers -- and this forum as a resource -- I can see selling the rig and trading up in a couple years.
