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Random Quote: Boating - Antichrist vs. the "honey do" list.
They are lighter and more corrosion resistant (to a point) a poorly cared for alum. will fade away as will a steel one but scratches are not the problem as they are with galvanized, The other components ,axels,brakes,wireing,etc are all the same on either and where disimilar metals come in contact it should be watched as well. I noticed that the steel grounds for my lighting seems to be a bit of an issue where they attach to the trailer frame, All in all I would get an aluminum whenever I could, they also stay looking nicer when kept up.
Aluminum is by far better ,i had both kinds ,lighter to trailer and more durable >no worries about effects of saltwater and the gavanizing . By the way do not get a loadrite , mthe biggest POS ever built , just like a bolt together kit .
Aluminum is lighter and overall better, but galvanized is perfectly serviceable, especiually for smaller boats. The more important consideration is the components used on the trailer. Torsion axles are much better than leaf springs, but seldom ordered by boat dealers who strive to cut every nickel of cost. Kodiak disk brakes are better than Tie down Engineering disc brakes which are far better than drum brakes. Drum brakes are troublesome. Some trailers use cheap tires, some use better tires. Aluminum trailers are usually, but not always, bunk trailer design. This works well with reasonably steep ramps, such as most public ramps, and you can drive the boat on an off the trailer. But if you use flat, shallow ramps, it can be difficult or impossible to launch from a bunk trailer. In that scenario a roller trailer is the much better choice. Galvanized roller trailers are common. Buy the type of trailer that meets your boating needs and has the best components.
I am very happy with my Magic Tilt Aluminum trailer, it has been trouble free with the exception of one marker light that I replaced. Mine has the LED lights. I would recommend Magic Tilt.
Please do yourself a favor and add Magic Tilt to the "not recommended list". Other than that, aluminum with torsion axles is the only way to go.
I second that motion! Do not buy Tragic Tilt. Also be sure that they are all the same metal material to the extent possible. Avoid aluminum frame with galvanized cross members (bad juju). IMHO aluminum is the way to go. It will also be easier to resale later when/if you decide to sell the boat.
Absolutely.....aluminum..........I have a 1996 Tragic Tilt....aluminum roller trailer....bought new..........the only problem with the trailer was fixed axles...that ultimately should be about a foot forward...........for the boat that I am carrying. Other than that, with a semi annula clean up/ polish it has held up well.................all advise given spot on........pay particular attention to getting torsion axles...and Kodiak SS brakes...on whatever you buy......