Boat weight for trailer

[ccanavan]

I have a Thundercraft Magnum 230 weighing approx. 3700 pounds. Am I wise to buy a trailer that has a maximum of 4000 pound capacity? Or, should I go to a bigger trtailer?

Cliff

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Boat weight for trailer

Trailer capacity is based on several factors among which are frame strength, axle capacity, spring capacity, and tire size/load range. Trailers often use the same frame but alter springs and tires to achieve different load capacity. So check the GVWR label on the trailer. If that label indicates 4000# with the largest listed tire, then you need a larger trailer. If the weight is listed with less than the largest tire, then all you need to do is change the tires to achieve the higher load capacity. 3700 pounds for boat weight does not generally include a full fuel tank, water tank (if you have one), extra gear, coolers and the other stuff one tends to stuff in the boat.

 

[Fastway]

Re: Boat weight for trailer

Normally the weight that a boat manufacturer supplies is the dry weight, and as stated in the previous post, it does not include fuel (6.15 lbs. gal), water (8.35 lbs gal), batteries, gear, etc...

All of this needs to be added to the weight supplied unless you are already taking these things into consideration before making the jump to a new trailer. Most reputable trailer dealers can qualify your boat for the correct trailer in your state, but its always a good idea to do your homework first. If they don't ask any of these questions, I would look elsewhere.

 

[NHGuy]

Re: Boat weight for trailer

A little bit of nitpick, but I disagree with Silvertip. He says
"Trailer capacity is based on several factors among which are frame strength, axle capacity, spring capacity, and tire size/load range. Trailers often use the same frame but alter springs and tires to achieve different load capacity. So check the GVWR label on the trailer. If that label indicates 4000# with the largest listed tire, then you need a larger trailer. If the weight is listed with less than the largest tire, then all you need to do is change the tires to achieve the higher load capacity. 3700 pounds for boat weight does not generally include a full fuel tank, water tank (if you have one), extra gear, coolers and the other stuff one tends to stuff in the boat."

What was left unsaid was that the spring rate should be checked and the axle capacity too. If you check and the brand of trailer can be found at the next capacity you may be able to confirm those things, if any, that need to be stronger. The frame and rollers may also be different.
I think what Silvertip meant was that if the capacity label shows the trailer can carry greater loads with different tires then you should feel comfortable doing just that.
Just verify what you have so you don't end up with trouble.