Determining the right length trailer

[rnl]

This may be a dumb question, but it would be even dumber if I didn't ask it. i am looking for a used trailer for my 26' Wellcraft. i understand I need to make sure the weight rating is enough, but i have found a bunch that will carry the weight, but don't look long enough. what should the length be from the winch post to the end of the bunk/roller? i have been told to measure the water line, is that right?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Determining the right length trailer

you also have to consider tongue length. i like atleast 4 feet from coupler to winch stand, then the length of the boat.

 

[reelfishin]

Re: Determining the right length trailer

A lot also has to do with the style of the boats hull. I have one trailer that came to me with a 24' Sea Ray on it which fit that boat ok, but yet it barely holds my 19' boat. The bow eye position makes a big difference in how the boat sits on a trailer. My boat now has the bow eye withing 8" of the tip of the bow, while the Sea Ray's bow eye was back about 30" or so. The bow of the Sea Ray was high enough to ride above the tow vehicles roof, while my boat's bow is only about chest high. I too like the trailer tongue to be a bit longer than needed. It keeps the truck out of the water and off the slick wet part of the ramp.