Keel support for flat bottom boat? Need ideas

RightRigger · 10-14-2009, 01:41 PM

I have a 19' flat bottom boat similar to a Carolina Skiff.

Below is a picture of the trailer.

The keel roller pictured is too short.
It's about 6-8" too short.

Going down the road the bow bounces quite a bite because of this.
I'm looking for ideas on how to resolve this issue.

The roller bracket pictured is all the way to the top of the slots.

Any suggestions?

Bamaskeetshooter · 10-14-2009, 02:02 PM

I would install two bunks in the front of the trailer and remove the roller, or you could install one bunk across the trailer.

You need to think about how you are going to keep the boat from shifting around during trailering.

jaybyrd83ecu · 10-14-2009, 05:31 PM

I have a 19' Carolina skiff. Where the roller is located, there is a bunk that the boat comes up to when it is loaded that parallels the axle. It rests on top of it. You could fab one out of angle brackets a 2x4 and a scrap of carpet. It would be higher than the roller you have in your picture and serve the same purpose.

RightRigger · 10-15-2009, 04:08 AM

Bama,
Any thoughts on how to prevent it from slipping around on trailering?

StPeteRebel · 10-15-2009, 05:53 AM

I would lower the bunks in the back of the trailer, they seem high.

jaybyrd83ecu · 10-15-2009, 07:42 AM

Lower the bunks only if your hull won't scrape the fenderwells loading. . . The only way to keep a flatbottom skiff from sliding on the trailer is to take your turns slower and keep a strap on her. Or bring in your side guides and make sure they are stiff.

rayteagarden1 · 10-15-2009, 11:35 AM

The trailer shown below is my final version required to quickly launch and load my flat bottom Carolina Skiff model 2180DLX. I mean "really fast" launch and load.

I feel you are at a disadvantage with an aluminum trailer, modifications to a steel frame trailer are much easier.

First, I would install a center bunk for more support of your hull. Side rails are a must for a flat bottom boat.

Afishinado · 10-15-2009, 12:21 PM

had two CS's with flat bottoms.. The bow is held by the winch stand. I did a criss cross with my stern tie downs AND put long one over the whole thing for my trips... I towed to OBX and the Keys from NJ several times, never an issue

beenie · 10-15-2009, 01:43 PM

Longer bunks would not hurt, but not necessary. I agree with the cross bunk. With the boat all the way forward so the winching eye is against the stop, fabricate a bunk as far forward as you can get it. It will help stop the hull from sliding forward in a hard stop and support it during transit.
Mike

RightRigger · 10-15-2009, 01:53 PM

I build a cross bunk today after talking to a local trailer shop.
I'll put the boat on the trailer this weekend and make the final adjustments.
I'm also going to replace the guide ons with something more sturdy that will hopefully prevent sidewards movement.

I go overboard on straps when towing.
Thanks for all suggestions.

That's a heck of a rig you got there Ray.
Looks sharp

Afishinado · 10-15-2009, 02:37 PM

Now that you said that... I did see one with these... Looked like theyd work..

Cabelas- http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/te...382&hasJS=true