Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: 17' Montauk Trailer Size Question
Posted by wenabccom on 03/09/08 - 11:16 PM
#1
Hi, I'm trying to find a trailer for my newly purchased 17 Montauk (used). Can anyone suggest what size of a trailer I should be getting?
At what lengh of the trailer from the tip to end I should consider? Many thanks!
Wen
Posted by Blue_Northern on 03/10/08 - 8:11 AM
#2
I do not know the length but I did learn something about trailers when I bought my Montauk. The previous owner had an aluminum trailer and the bunks stuck way off the end to hold the boat. It seemed okay but the trailer was not rated for the weight and I ate tires up fast. Boston whalers are heavy boats -- make sure you spend the money were it counts on load and tires. I ended up getting another trailer and building it out just the way I needed it. I have hauled my boat 1000's of miles with no trouble.
Rob
Posted by Phil T on 03/10/08 - 11:09 AM
#3
My 1987 Montauk sat on a trailer that was approximately 20' (from coupler to rear). The trailer should have at least 2 cross bars. The transom of the boat should sit directly over the rear crossbar. You want a rating of approximately 2,000 lbs.
My trailer was wide and the boat sit inside of the wheels which I prefer. Some acceptable trailers are a bit narrower and sit on top of the wheels. Torsion axle rides smoother than springs. A bit more money.
I like Load Rite brand but there are many good brands. What area of the country are you in? Do you trailer a lot or just periodically?
Posted by wenabccom on 03/11/08 - 9:28 PM
#5
Thanks for both of your tips.
I called a local whaler dealer and according to them, i could use a trailer for the newer 15' whalers. Not sure this is true but I'll find out when at their store.
Posted by Phil T on 03/12/08 - 9:20 AM
#6
My apologies if my next comment offends anyone.
The trailers Whaler provides are cheezy. Given the money a new Whaler costs, they should provide a high quality trailer. Why do I think this? No keel rollers, welded bunks and cross members making any adjustments not possible. The frame stock looks a bit on the thin side.
Many don't think hard about a trailer till it comes time to fix or replace. Prices for a decent trailer are $1000 +.
If you state what region of the country you are in, we can tell you what companies sell in your area.
Posted by egerrity on 03/12/08 - 10:38 AM
#7
I agree with the last post. I purchsed a new Load rite trailer. Including Keel rollers, adjustable bunks, tongue jack, and tie downs for about $1300. It is a much beefier trailer than the ones that come with the new Montauks. Alittle extra mony well spent in my option. I took off the Load Rite stickers and put BW decals on it. Looks great.
Posted by wenabccom on 03/12/08 - 2:30 PM
#8
I'm in LA, I think Pacific trailers is my only option, right?
Thanks again for your great info.
Posted by Phil T on 03/12/08 - 4:34 PM
#9
Pacific is a well known brand. There may be others as well. Maybe some of our left coast members can chime in.
You have lots of options to pick when pricing out a new trailer, these include:
Galvanized or Aluminum
Torsion or Leaf (Torsion rides smooth as buttah)
Brakes ? (check your state DMV)
stock or upgraded rims
stainless or galvanized hardware
I trailer so I would recommend rear roller guides
A photo of my rollers
Hope this helps.