Winter trailer storage - jack up? - The Hull Truth

FASTFJR · 09-01-2009, 06:30 AM

I'll be keeping the boat on the trailer over the winter, wrapped and winterized. Is their any benefit or problem with keeping the trailer on jacks with the wheel off the ground? Nov-March

Thanks

BW23 · 09-01-2009, 07:25 AM

Alot of people jack-em up to take the stress off the springs and tires.

wensteph · 09-01-2009, 07:46 AM

I've always heard you should do it to prevent forming a flat spot on the bearings.

FASTFJR · 09-01-2009, 07:55 AM

Thanks guys

I've got a tidewater with torsion springs. While I'm at it is it worth taking off the tires and wrapping the hub and disc brakes in a plastic bag to prevent any further rusting?

rwidman · 09-01-2009, 08:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FASTFJR

I'll be keeping the boat on the trailer over the winter, wrapped and winterized. Is their any benefit or problem with keeping the trailer on jacks with the wheel off the ground? Nov-March

You don't want to keep it on jacks, it will be unstable. Automotive jack stands will do the job if they don't sink into the pavement or ground. You can put wood under them to keep them from sinking in. Wooden blocks can be used for support also.

Support the trailer either under the axles or on the frame as near to the axles as possible. That's how the trailer was designed, to be supported by the axles. If you place the support under the axles, place it as close to the wheels as possible. You can bend an axle if you raise or support it in the center.

I never jacked my trailer up for the winter when I lived in MD and never had a problem with the trailer or tires. Personally, I wouldn't bother. If it makes you feel any better, hitch it up and tow it around the block every month or so.

rwidman · 09-01-2009, 08:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wensteph

I've always heard you should do it to prevent forming a flat spot on the bearings.

Bearings are metal. You can't make a flat spot on them. Some people are concerned with making a flat spot on the tires. No problem, if this happens, it will go away in a few miles. Older folks may remember getting flat spots on their car tires in cold weather.

pastaman1234 · 09-02-2009, 12:06 PM

On the tires with a few cinder blocks under the tongue with a block of wood between the cinder block and trailer frame. Jack in the vertical position so it doesnt collect water a few inches above the ground.