When is it time to replace a trailer?

[AlexT]

Given that you can basically replace everything on a trailer, when is it time for a new trailer? When the frame starts to go?

I ask because I have a '91 Venture for my Parker and am now considering replacing the black rollers with either poly rollers or bunks, but I'm scratching my head at the $150 or so that it would cost to do so. Just put some new lights on it, and it will probably need new hubs/bearings in a couple of years. When do you guys say enough and just trade it in?

[timd]

This year I replaced the original trailer under my 74 SeaCraft. The $3000 was well spent to upgrade to an Aluminum Loadmaster. The main reason was because my tow more than doubled to around 300 miles round trip, and I did not have confidence in the old trailer, tires, hubs, bunks, etc. Also, it was a single axle with no brakes and I went to a tandem with brakes. I would say it depends on the length of your tow and your confidence in the trailer.

Tim

[finman]

If you have to ask then its time

[Thom]

I would look for rust that had the effect of weakening the main frame, other than that, as you said, everything is replacable. Axles and hubs are inexpensive as are brakes and lights. I do understand your pain on those rollers. I have been thinking about the same thing for 2 years now but every time I see the price I wince, I've got 48 of those wobble rollers back there (already replaced the center rollers with the good ones by Stoltz) and the thought of the price to replace them makes the black streaks on the hull (easily removed with acetone) look easier to put up with.

Thom

[brisboats]

When the trailer is 10 plus years old I would replace instead of refurbishing. You will strart fresh with everything new and save yourself a lot of time upgrading your old trailer. The market here is incredible for used trailers place an ad in your local paper and you will sell the old trailer in a weekend.

[Bruce W]

REPLACE it - for an 1801 Parker, you're not looking at more than a $1,500 or so trailer, depending on galvanized or aluminum.

It's a LOT cheaper than seeing the boat land on the HIGHWAY or in a ditch!!! So many neglect the thing that's CARRYING the boat, in order for the BOAT to be perfect!

Keep that good lookin' Parker SAFE!

Regards,
Bruce W

[SRE372]

I ran a double axle trailer and usually replace them after six or 7 years. Last time I sold the old one which was in good shape for 1600.00 and bought the new one for 2600.00. I dont pay for dock space so 1000.00 every six or seven years is cheap insurance.