Single axle trailers - Bottom, Middle, and Upper tier brands

[jdm]

I'm in need of a used 3500 lb. capacity single axle trailer to use with an 18 ft. Wellcraft center console on the gulf coast of Florida. I don't know what to consider "good" vs. "cheap" brands. Either aluminum or galvanized would be fine since it will rarely be used to put the boat in or take it out of the water. Mostly it would be used to store the boat for extended periods of time. Due to the short distances that the boat will be trailered and the maintenance factor associated with trailer brakes, I'm looking for one without brakes. Which brands should I stay away from (especially used), and which ones should I consider to be good values that should hold up well over the long run?

[Mr. Demeanor]

The advantages of bumping up to a dual axle are really worth a look. First and foremosyt being you can limp down the road on three wheels.

[redneckromper]

You should be fine with a single axle especially if you only trailer short distances, just don't get cheap tires. I have a dual axle Loadmaster trailer that is over 10 years old and it is holding up great. I use it in salt water and freshwater frequently.

[xl883lo]

[quote]jdm - 1/20/2008 7:09 AM........I'm in need of a used 3500 lb. capacity single axle trailer to use with an 18 ft. Wellcraft center console Due to the short distances that the boat will be trailered and the maintenance factor associated with trailer brakes, I'm looking for one without brakes..........[quote]

If you are over 3000# in Florida(that is where you are right?) you are required by law to have brakes(there are some Ag exceptions). Most states changed the law recently and I think it had something to do with changes by the Feds.

[GhostShip]

Definition of "short distance" req'd.!

3,500# rig w/o brakes is...............illegal for starters. 3,000# law is becoming universal(Wi)

[ski doc]

I shopped them all last year in SW Florida. I am happy with my First Load trailer. $3,200 for #6,000 capacity ( dual axles) and stainless steel hardware upgrade. Not top of the line but better than Continental IMO.

[jdm]

"Short distance" in my case is less than 30 miles. I was looking for one with a 3500 lb. capacity rating so I wouldn't be at 100% of capacity with the total boat, motor, and trailer weight coming in just under 3000 lbs. Most of the time it is just going to sit unused. This would be for Florida gulf coast roads between launches, service visit hauls, and infrequent short fishing jaunts (down to Boca Grande as an example).

I'd carry a spare tire for added peace of mind when towing.

So what's "the good, the bad, and the ugly" story on the brands out there?