If youre new to boat trailers or new to towing in general, there are some steps that you should take before you get behind the wheel. Crab Boat Speed: How Fast Does a Crab Fishing Boat Go. Contact Us | Site Map Measure the total length of the box(A) and divide that dimension by 2 to find the centerline of the trailer box. Choose a trailer with a number of axles that can accommodate the weight of your pontoon boat. To get that, the calculator takes the volume of your boat and multiplies that by 62.4. Thats where bunk capscome in. How to measure a 5 lug trailer wheel bolt pattern - Shows diagram on how to accurately measure the 5 lug Trailer Wheel Bolt Circle. Go with completely adjustable trailers to old pontoon models and new ones. Usually, boat owners would think that a 20-foot pontoon is for a 20-foot trailer. Each trailer is weighed when its produced, and you should be able to find this number on the VIN tag. Unfortunately it's one we Smaller 10' to 14' boats are usually under $1,500 but remember that weight, towing capacity, size, and accessories can always increase the price tag. The rule of thumb is that you need a trailer at least 3 feet (0.9 m) longer than your pontoons length. The carrying capacity refers to how much weight the trailer can hold. Trailer lengths for pontoon boats:if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'thepontoonsite_com-banner-1','ezslot_11',133,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepontoonsite_com-banner-1-0'); The weight of your pontoon boat also has an major effect on the trailer you need. A great resource for finding out whats required near you is the. any warranty relief if you damage their stand. None of them are absolutely necessary, so if you want something budget friendly, you can leave all of these out. The pontoons Bass Pro sells for example, have an extended motor pan so in that case the LOA is from the pan to the front . Although the advice in this article is targeted to pontoon boat owners, the information applies to all types of boats. general rule of thumb is that the overall trailer length should be 10% more than the base boat length not including added swim platform or bow pulpit.. If you boat in saltwater, listen up. If you exceed your tongue weight, it can be dangerous and lead to fishtailing while towing the boat. A single axle trailer has enough capacity for a light, 14 to 20 feet (4.3 6.1 m) long pontoon weighing 2,250 pounds (1,021 kg). Then of course, theres the matter of cost. Max speed of 55MPH is recommended for towing. Also, make sure you assess the current and wind direction before backing down the launch. The boat will be very high off the ground, so entering and exiting will be difficult without a ladder. A poorly fit trailer wont provide good clearance for your pontoon. The good thing about this type of trailer is that the position of the boat does not have to be exact when you load it. trailer. Pontoon owners who prefer saltwater trips can also reap the benefits of aluminum since its not too prone to corrosion. Most of the weight in modern pontoons is in the stern. And thats where we come in. Why? If this can be done with ample clearance of not hitting the boat, you can use a straight tube model, if not then a formed center tube model is needed. We warrant boat trailer frames tip to tail for two years from the date of purchase against defective material and workmanship. The captains (Most pontoon boats are 89" to 93" inside the fence railing) B. The difference is, you do get more stability at a lower price because even a base model bunk-style trailer is more secure and multifunctional than any model of scissor trailer. Thats because the dealer is equipped to tow, launch, and store the boat for you. Depending on the size and weight of your pontoon boat, you may also need more than a single axle trailer. The hassle and cost of replacing the tires sooner is well outweighed by the safety and operational factors they offer you. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Copyright 2022 --- all rights reserved ** Measure as accurately as possible. If youre carrying a heavy load, then youre going to need to stop a pretty long way before the actual stopping point to give your trailer the time to adjust its brakes. On the other hand, you should never travel with a maximally loaded trailer and put yourself and other traffic participants at risk. With that said, you can purchase a trailer for your pontoon boat from your dealer. Geoff also recommends looking at a product calledSalt Awaythat will help ward off damage when freshwater isnt quickly available. example of why getting the proper information allows us to help you achieve Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. First, drive on to the scale with all 4 wheels of the truck and record the weight of the truck with the trailer attached. This may not be as important as the previously mentioned factors, but we still have to mention that the type of road travel should play into what type of pontoon trailer you are getting. Lets see. The front of the pontoon Also consider getting some LED lights for your pontoon boat too. Also, your trailer wont balance, and its impossible to maintain the correct tongue weight. stand back to make sure you maintain proper tongue weight. A trailer's gross vehicle weight rating or simply GVWR is the maximum weight that it can sustain. sold. To buy a trailer that is identical in length to the pontoon boat itself. Best practice dictates you pick a trailer 3 feet longer. Thats because this style of trailer is universal and can be used on many different size pontoon boats. If your launch is a steep drop down, you may want to remove the winch strap from the loop on the frame in order to give it some more slack. Ensuring that your watercraft falls within a trailer's GVWR guarantees that the design won't buckle under the heft of your pontoon or break down during transport and use. When looking to purchase a pontoon boat trailer, first decide if you will need to tow the boat on your own. Lightweight and affordable, aluminum is the go-to for buyers who are concerned about fuel consumption. Hopefully the The most common recommendation is to choose a trailer that is about 3 or 4 feet longer than the pontoon (example: a 21 foot long pontoon would need a 24-25 foot long trailer), and this is generally true. This will affect the balance on the trailer and This is called a spindle. 23'-25' boats with striking, fluent lines and a masculine stance to define luxury sport. Our welded frame trailers have a five year warranty. For instance, you must size the length of the trailer to the tube length of the pontoon boat. 2023 Barletta Boat Company. Youre usually looking for spaces taller than 8 at least. Copyright 2023 Pontooners | All rights reserved. Bearings rotate in polished units called races. We like to keep the Fortem Digital Tire Inflator with us at all times. Its important to know if the engine in the downward position will have clearance in the water and going down the road. Designed with carpeted two by fours, this trailer features a wide track thats intended to make the entire pontoon towing experience more stable and safe. Trailers need to match their dimensions to the watercraft they load to be able to properly support it. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Typically, an 18 feet (5.5 m) pontoon weighs 1,800 to 2,000 pounds (816.5 907.2 kg), but its engine can add up to 500 pounds (226.8 kg). The sidewall should have a sticker telling you the max PSI that your tires should be. Some experts even recommend that the difference between pontoon and trailer sizes is 4 feet (1.2 m) in ideal conditions. Its more typical than not to have brakes on a pontoon boat trailer. If you dont do this and you pull the boat from a steep angle, the bow will become angled upwards on the trailer. These plastic glides provide a smooth surface for your pontoon to glide over, and theyre much easier to keep dry. The industry's first step-down bow provides a sporty low-profile exterior with enhanced sightlines with easy to drive floor plans from 20 to 24 feet. But there is no exact dimension for all brands. Otherwise, it can hit the vehicle that carries it. the trailer. Were going to dissect these eight factors to buying a pontoon boat trailer: Pontoon boat trailers are generally not built and sold by pontoon boat manufacturers. Unfortunately though, this means potential stability issues when towing the boat. Boating with Dogs: A Complete Guide for Safety & Fun. Although the boat is stable this scenario is not ideal if you have to travel long distances as it makes for an uncomfortable ride. Please make sure you entered a valid zip code. This angle puts a lot of pressure on the winch strap and as the boat starts to level out, it has the potential to damage the bow of the boat where the winch is connected. Pontoon boats with U shaped pontoons or shapes other than round will vary. considerable force when you come in fast. A bunk-style trailer provides your pontoon with full support and more safety compared to a scissor-trailed. Its important to know that there will be some galvanized parts on the trailer, so its still important to rinse with fresh water after each use. This leads to less rocking on the highway and a much more comfortable ride.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thepontoonsite_com-leader-3','ezslot_19',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepontoonsite_com-leader-3-0'); This trailer offers the most stability when towing and its biggest advantage is a smooth towing experience. If youre unfamiliar with these, the first number is the boats length, while the next number indicates the trailer tire size, such as 10 inches, 12 inches, and 13 inches. Load guideshave been known to save marriages! Its a better option for heavier boats with large engines. below is the deluxe Bennington Q series on a custom 6 frame trailer. If youre ready to take the leap and learn about your buying options, a great place to start is with a dealer. The industry's first step-down bow provides a sporty low-profile exterior with enhanced sightlines with easy to drive 23' & 25' floorplans. The pontoon This makes picking a trailer really easy. A 24 foot pontoon boat requires a 21- 27 foot long trailer. discovered his pontoon was a 20 pontoon. The winch stand is not in place with incorrect trailers. The best pontoon trailer lets you take your pontoon home for safekeeping, and even opens up the opportunity to take your watercraft to far off destinations. For instance, you can set 18 feet (5.5 m) and 20 feet (6.1 m) long vessels on the same 23 feet (7 m) long trailer. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. So, manufacturers do not include them with the build because its just added cost thats unnecessary to some. Dual axle trailer - 2,250 lbs to 4,800 lbs. The scissor-style (up and down) trailers fit between tubes on your pontoon. If you are hauling a pontoon its important to make sure to invest in the right carrier (in this case, trailer). This is the hub bore. The ultra stable tandem axle structure also guarantees a hitch free ride even on the bumpiest of roads. This can feel a little unnerving when you are hauling a boat worth tens of thousands of dollars. What is the weight of your With either trailer you choose, its incredibly important to rinse or flush the brakes immediately after use. With over 50 years of experience, it's safe to say that no one knows more about pontoon trailers than Charles Mill Marina owner Bob Schraedly. Trailers are the most affordable, most accessible private pontoon storage and land transport option to date. Theyre bigger, bulkier, and built for heavier weights. For towing purposes, I strongly suggest removing the mooring cover. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The longest horizontal bunk boards we offer are part # CE27845 which measure 84" long x 1-3/4" wide x 3-3/4" tall so you will more . These trailers are built with 3inX2in 14 gauge steel tube frames and 3-4 cross braces which can support up to 1,800#. What size trailer do you need for a pontoon boat or other type pf boat?if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'thepontoonsite_com-box-3','ezslot_3',129,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thepontoonsite_com-box-3-0'); An 18 foot boat requires an a 18 21 foot long trailer. Rocking of your boat on one of these trailers is not uncommon when traveling at speed on the highway. The trailer is thus supporting the tubes unlike the scissor type of trailer. Sorry, no results match your current selection. A bunk-style trailer can be used for multiple different pontoon boats if it has the correct number of bunks and is long and wide enough. You must take extra care when towing with a scissor trailer because sharp corners could result in the boat rolling off and hitting the pavement. Axles are the rods that hold the tires in place. A 21 foot boat requires a 21 24 foot long trailer. The toons nestle down into the bunks and are less susceptible to teetering and movement while towing down the road. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. move the carpeted bunks, but its easier to do with power tools at the The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. By sliding the winch stand forward Below is an example of a New for 2023, the LX Sport is at the top of our L series. You do not want to let the brakes sit in the sun all day with the saltwater baking on. Apr 28, 2009. The correct size of bunk boards for your pontoon boat trailer is going to vary depending on configuration. Some boat manufacturers will also offertrailer and lift guidesto help you find the right fit. Manage Settings Always go for a wide diameter tire as they are larger. More boating tips at https.//www.benningtonmarine.com . First of all, fitting a pontoon can sometimes be challenging, and you can expect it to rock while traveling on local roads. Many components have an extended warranty. Also, it can be based on the tow vehicle. The most common recommendation is to choose a trailer that is about 3 or 4 feet longer than the pontoon (example: a 21 foot long pontoon would need a 24-25 foot long trailer), and this is generally true. Large diameters, being bigger, cover more ground per revolution than a smaller-diameter tire leading to less strain on the wheel and less wear on the tire. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. (This is leaving room for the trailer, etc.) A spare does not typically come with the trailer unless you request one. You can find two on the current market. The trailer size depends on your pontoon dimensions. If the tubes measure 28 feet, your trailer should measure at least . If you bought your boat at a local pontoon dealership, they likely have a partner trailer dealer that they can refer you to. Remove the grease caps and measure the diameter of the opening the caps occupy. Pontoon boats take very little effort to get them moving on the water but how do you get them to the water in the first place? They are also cost-effective and easy to maintain. And of course, since there are only two wheels, expect them to wear out more rapidly especially if you tend to throw on more weight to its load. should rest as closely to the center as possible. However, it is much more difficult to load and unload the pontoon boat on this style of trailer as you need to line-up the boat exactly. Get answers on questions like: What size pontoon trailer do I need? How many axles do I need on my pontoon trailer? What are some tips on how to safely trailer my pontoon boat?Check out our inventory of new Hoosier trailers at this link: https://www.charlesmillmarina.com/default.asp?page=xAllInventory\u0026vt=cargo%20trailer#page=xAllInventory\u0026vt=cargo%20trailer One size will not fit all trailers. 23-30 customizable boats with an unmistakable silhouette in 8' 6" and 10' wide-beam widths with single or dual engine. However, there are several add-ons you should also consider: Brakes Unless you are sure your vehicle can control and stop a 2,000 pounds (907 kg) pontoon boat when necessary, you will need brakes. The boat has to be lined-up on the trailer exactly though unlike the scissor style trailer and this makes loading and unloading more of hassle. Remember, the best fit is when the pontoon hits the winch stand on its most vital point. Pontoon boat trailer length might be silly or underrated, but it nevertheless helps to have guides such as this to make sure you are on the right path of understanding before making another hefty purchase. With this dock measurement, you need to check for the overall lengths of various pontoon boat models. Extensions A stern extension provides additional support for your pontoon boat. Scissor-style trailersare constructed with a center lift mechanism that sits between the tubes of the boat. However, we still recommend going the extra mile and researching the actual trailer you intend to buy as there is no universal rule between different manufacturers. The bimini top should be all the way down in the trailering position. 16'-25' pontoon boats highlighting comfort, style, and functionality that can be catered to your lifestyle. However, they can cause a bumpy ride if you drive with an unloaded trailer. Overall, LED lights make the best choice for any trailer. Also, the tube may be too far back or too much at the front. Next, you are trying to decide on how you will move the boat. Load guides act as bumpers on a bowling alley lane. Pontoon boats with U shaped pontoons or shapes other than round will vary. Just imagine the bow of a canoe. Common practice dictates that you add 3 feet to the length of your pontoon boat to determine what size trailer you need. Continue with Recommended Cookies. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Launching a pontoon boat can be quick and easy with some practice. That axle centerline is where you will attach the middle spring hanger. This can impact stability on the road, making bias-ply better for shorter trips. A multiple or tandem axle trailer is basically a trailer with more than one set of tires. By using a pontoon trailer that fits well with your boat, you can guarantee the safety and stability of your pontoon during transport. Choosing the Right Pontoon Trailer. A good pontoon trailer must have working blinkers by law. The first way is to use a tape measure, and measure the length of the trailer from the front to the back. Our bunk style pontoon trailers are fully adjustable to fit all Keeping up with trailer maintenance is key to making sure it will last long, even in corrosive saltwater. And never power load the boat. Also, it would help if you referred to your owners manual. gorgeous at least when its Blinkers Most local US laws demand suitable lighting for your pontoon trailer. The portion you need to measure is not the cap, but the the hub bore. This will vary geographically and is subject to change if you add on upgrades. If you buy the pontoon boat and decide later that you do want a trailer, I recommend going back to your dealer to discuss options. If you live in a humid saltwater region such as Florida, you will want to go with an aluminum trailer. To be precise, it keeps the engine and fuel tank in place, preventing damage from vibration and bouncing on rough paths. Talk to your dealer about which option is best for you. Since theyre waterproof and rugged, LED lights provide sufficient illumination without risking any sort of damage to the internal wiring due to moisture exposure and salt during a saltwater launch. Most pontoon boats with 86 wide decks usually have 77 bunk centers. Your dealer should be able to help you understand how the law does or does not affect your purchase. If you plan to travel long and on various road types, you should think about large and bunk-style pontoon trailers. that will help ward off damage when freshwater isnt quickly available. Copyright 2018 --- Trailers for Pontoons. [Explained]. I totally agree with Slasmith. As I have already mentioned, you need around 3 feet (0.9 m) longer trailer than your pontoon boat. It helps if your tape measure end has some method of sticking to . The terrain you will drive the trailer on is the first thing you should consider. Almost all of the weight of a pontoon boat is placed on the stern; this includes the captains helm, engine, gas tanks, and others. Well, it actually depends more on the following factors: There are a lot of trailer manufacturers in the pontoon boat space and it is rather challenging to come up with a universal answer to how long a pontoon boat trailer should be for a specific boat. Manage Settings This is just the right size as the nose cone of pontoons tends to angle up. Length overall (LOA) is measured from the top/tip of the boat's bow- unbent, to the stern or the back of the boat or watercraft. For long hauls, radial tires are often the best choice since they provide better control and lasting performance. There is also a 10 feet (3 m) wide extension kit for trailers carrying more sizable pontoon models. Timecodes 0:00 - Intro 0:18 - Propper Hitch 0:48 - Hook Up the Trailer 2:37 . In the photo to the left, the bunk could perhaps be a few inches longer, but with the weight in the back it's immaterial. They hook to your car and can be controlled from inside your vehicle for added safety. Best practice dictates you get a trailer with a little extra length i.e. This style of trailer is the least hassle for quickly getting the boat to and from the water. If the trailer is too long you can also run into trouble on some ramps. that use short stands on big pontoons have a design defect, but again it a The style of this trailer makes it a bit dangerous for long-distance tows or high speeds. The average width for pontoons is around 8 feet; however, widths will vary depending on each boat. On the other hand, you can find it quite challenging to align the pontoon on the trailer perfectly. These work by slowly stopping the trailer as your vehicle slows down. of pontoon trailers to consider based on the type of pontoon you have. Take note of these numbers on the trailers product name/description and then find out the length of your pontoon. The trailer size depends on your pontoon dimensions. Once you decide on the trailer size for your pontoon boat, the next decision is picking out the trailer style. The images Related: Tips for Trailering a Pontoon Boat. That makes the volume 72 cubic feet (18 x 2 x 2). Just make sure that you order the right pontoon trailer for your boat. This style of pontoon boat trailer can retrieve and launch in the shallowest of water. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Some pontoons have the motor pan flush with the tail end of the tubes (as mine is) and therefore the tube length is the LOA. But because there are lots of different choices, it can be tough to find the best pontoon trailer for your boat, budget, and preferences. A galvanized trailer will ward off corrosion from the saltwater, but its still important to rinse them down after use. The torsion suspensions are hidden in the galvanized axles tubes, and their role is to compress while the wheels move. But since carpet can absorb some moisture, there are a few boat owners who try to steer clear of the material in fear that it might cause organism growth or corrosion over time. There is no possibility for a later add-on since the manufacturer fixes it to the trailer frame on the spot. The third way is to use a measuring wheel and measure the circumference of the trailer. This is a very important key that a buyer needs to be aware of when purchasing the proper trailer. The lift is attached to a winch that lowers and raises the entire boat. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates, Additionally, Pontooners.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.. Copyright 2022 --- Trailers for Pontoons. dont throttle back you can actually damage the winch stand and the Always be careful when adjusting the winch stand to ensure the correct tongue weight. These are the more popular upgradable features to consider, mostly found on bunk-style trailers. Pictured: Commercial truck scale. A single axle trailer is typically easier to maneuver, letting you get your trailer into tighter parking spaces if needed. On the other hand, a galvanized trailer is more cost-friendly, and regular rinsing with fresh water after use will protect the zinc coating. For 20' pontoons you'll want a trailer with a 24'-26' overall length. The number of axles on the boat trailer should correctly match the weight of your pontoon boat. Just a few examples are PT-20/13, PTB- 2023-10, PT-1925, WFB-120/10, and KDP-1820-27. Many local laws require that the VIN tag have info on the gross vehicle weight rating, representing the combined weight of your pontoon and trailer. Another thing to consider before buying a pontoon trailer is the boat weight. These pontoon trailers come standard with a 6.5in wide step ladder with a handrail and winch . In the picture you can see how the trailer you must know the If you exceed your tongue weight, it can be dangerous and lead to fishtailing while towing the boat. | Privacy Statement Manufacturers of pontoon boat trailers can only do so much to accommodate the different shapes and sizes of pontoon boats these days, which is why trailer adjustment mechanisms have been integrated into premium trailers. There are a lot of pontoon boats that are custom-built, making it slightly more challenging to classify into universal pontoon boat trailers (this is why there are adjustable trailers to reduce the variations in boat trailers produced). This is not conducive for traveling down the road, and the cover will be damaged. Also check out our guide on boat trailer weights for more information.