ToesOnDaNose4

I'm debating what to do about my trailer.
I have a 1990 proline center console sitting on a 1990 load rite roller trailer in Delaware. The trailer is all original; meaning tires, brakes etc. The brakes are non-existant, tires are dry rotted, lights don't work etc, terrible shape, except for the frame, axles and wheels.
Luckily, the trailer sees about 10 miles a year, to and from the boat ramp which is about 1/4 mile from where the boat is parked.
I'm moving to florida in the next couple months and would like to bring the boat down sometime in the 6 months after moving down. I just don't know what to do about getting it down there. I'm looking into rebuilding the entire trailer, except the axles and frame, which will cost about $1100 in quality parts, or buying a new one.
Really, it's going to be used for the one long trip to fl. Once down there, the closest ramp shouldn't be more than 5 miles away, I just need something roadworthy to get it down there.
I'm on a limited budget, max $2500, could possibly stretch to $3000.
was thinking of a new 5 star load rite, $2500, or possibly, since its really only going to be used hard for the drive to fl, getting a $2000 venture.
What says THT?

Sprockets

Tough call on a trailer that old. If you plan on keeping it for a while it may make sense to get a new one. I am going through the same issue with a 2003 trailer. You will still need a stable platform to get it to the ramp once you move to FL.

I'm leaning towards a new one.

reelapeelin

Look into the cost to have the whole thing, trailer and all shipped down (truck or train), then it sounds like you'll be able to use as is once there...if that proves too expensive, go new...

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V20/BF150

cjd

check out Uship.com if you have a big time window to bring it down, you could get a real nice price.

On the other hand, if you plan on doing a lot of towing in fla , you should probably bite the bullet and repair or replace.
The truth is, id the frame and springs and axle are in goos shape, new tires, lights and repacked/new hubs is really not that big a deal. I towed a 1989 parker on an 89 trailer from Annapolis to KY after about 5 hours of trailer prep (and two new tires)

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Chris

1993 Steigercraft 21 CC - Yamaha 150

bamaboy473

It's possible that the frame isn't as good as it looks on the outside. Rust can start on the inside of the tube and it won't show up until a weld gets stressed.
Driving 65 over a bump in the road is a LOT more stress than what that trailer has been used to. Not saying that yours is rotted, but finding out on the roadside in the middle of summer/middle of nowhere is a chance you're taking.

Any new trailer is better than a total rebuild. Also, check eBay and craigslist for used trailer that might be less than 5 years old. They should be almost half price of new ones.

P.S. before you make the trip, make sure that your boat owners' insurance covers Towing and extend the towing distance to the max.

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Rick
Alabama's Gulf Coast
Chaparral 240 Signature (Sold)

rwidman

I can understand the tires dry rotting, but how did you wear out the brakes and lights towing ten miles per year?

Is the frame really in good condition? No rust? How many axles? A complete disc brake kit for one axle including actuator can be had for under $500.00. Second axle is about $250 more. Tires are under $100.00 each. You can get a set of LED trailer lights for $50-$75.

Price it out and make your decision. You're going to need brakes for the trip and you're going to need them on each axle in FL.

Here is a good source for parts:

http://shop.easternmarine.com/

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Ron
2000 Camano Troll

HIGH COTTON
http://www.picturetrail.com/gallery....9&gid=19068769