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If you are considering buying a boat trailer here are a few facts that can help. Read on to learn more.

Construction

Aluminum I Beam

Most aluminum trailers hold up well in a saltwater environment. However, many of the companies building aluminum I beam trailers tend to also be the more mass-produced-style trailer that is bolted together with limited hull or keel support. Additionally, they use galvanized cross members and axles so, where those make contact with the aluminum I beam frame, it can cause electrolysis due to two unlike metals. Aluminum is lighter in weight so it often bends, bows, or flexes too.

Tube Steel

Tube steel looks nice and sleek, however, water gets trapped inside a tube steel frame so it will rust from the inside, out. When this occurs, there is no way to fix or repair the structural integrity of the trailer. For this reason, although they look smooth and sleek on the outside, they do have a “shelf life” due to corrosion. Also, accessing any of the wires, electrical, etc. is very challenging since it is all located inside the frame. However, tube steel trailers are stronger and heavier than aluminum trailers.

C-Channel Steel

C-Channel steel trailers can be hot dip-galvanized after they are welded and constructed to make the entire frame and all the wheels protected from the salt water environment.

Bunks and Rollers

Bunks that are flipped up on the end, out wide, so that your boat is resting on roughly 2” of wood, is less than ideal for proper hull support. Most sailboat hulls desire the majority of the weight support to be around the keel, which this style doesn’t accommodate. Not to mention it makes loading the boat on the trailer very challenging. A properly fitting boat trailer will provide keel support down the center, to make loading the boat on the trailer much simpler, as well as outer bunk supports for extra protection and strength, and key support.

Source: https://www.greatlakesscuttlebutt.com/news/press-room/what-to-look-for-when-purchasing-a-boat-trailer/

For RV Accessories Tow Bars, Truck Accessories, and More, Visit Cliff’s Welding, Inc.

If you are in need of RV Accessories, tow bars, hitches, or truck accessories in Mesa, Arizona, give Cliff’s Welding, Inc. a call today at (480) 832-0570 or use our contact form and send a us a quick message.