Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

[batman99]

Newbie boat ower. Currently apply a few fixes / improvements before hitting the lakes and rivers. If wondering, just bought a 1996 Bayliner 1700LS Bowrider with 120 HP OB. Boat is loaded on a Capri trailer with bunks.

With full tank of gas and boat on the trailer, the trailer tongue is very light weight. One can easily lift its tongue with one hand. Almost like the boat isn't pulled onto the trailer enough (to get more weight on its tongue). In utility and RV trailer towing world, the 10%-13% weight distribution rule is applied. re: Take Trailer's "loaded weight" and its tonque weight must be 10%-13% (of the total weight)

Long mumblings short... Does this 10%-13% rule apply to loaded boat trailers as well? If so, should I move its centre post (not too sure what its called - newbie person) forward a few more inches?

thanks.

 

[rallyart]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

Yes, the guideline of at least 10% of the total trailer weight as tongue weight applies very much to boats.

Move weight in the boat forward where you can but move the boat forward or axle backward to get it close.

 

[UncleWillie]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

5-10% usually works!
It doesn't matter to the trailer one hoot if it is carrying a boat or a load of manure.

If it is grossly out of balance, it is going to get ugly!

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

move the rest of your gear forward in the boat.

 

[H20Rat]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

There are no hard and fast rules, ask that same question 10 times and you will get 10 different answers. Very few trailers need 10%, most are stable a little below that in all conditions. Below 5%, and you are asking for trouble.

 

[Mi duckdown]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

A good side view pic of your set up would help alot. From couple to end of trailer with boat on.

 

[MH Hawker]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

Your setting your self to let the tail wag the dog. Move things around one way or another.

 

[lrak]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

No. It is generally something like -

5th wheel 20-25%
Gooseneck 15-20%
Travel trailer - 12-16%
Cargo trailer - 10-15%
Utility trailer - 8-12%
Boat trailer - 5-10%

If all else fails google an owners manual for the brand and type trailer and see what the manufacturer suggests.

 

[batman99]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

Thanks for everyone's feedback. With boat having full tank of gass, I'll "scale weight" its tonque and ensure its tongue weight is within 5%-10% range. And if needed, I'll move the boat forward (onto the trailer a little more) - putting more weight on iots trailer tongue... Thanks again...

 

[batman99]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

Update:

Was surfing a few moments ago and noticed my boat trailer doesn't have a spare tire mounted on its tongue - like many boat trailers. Thus, why its tonque weight is lights than expected. Think I need to mount its spare tire on its tonque (instead of being in pickup box - like previous trailer ower) and re-check its tongue weight. For example, surf: http://i01.i.aliimg.com/photo/v0/328132575/Painted_Boat_Trailer_MTB4500S.jpg

.

 

[maproy99]

Re: Does 1%0-13% apply to boat trailers as well???

Quick and simple test. Take it for a tow. If it tows good, don't worry. If it tows bad, make adjustments.