Slide On Trailer opinions

[N3UP]

Ok, lets open the can 'o worms.

I need to get a trailer for a Regal Leisurecat.
After searching the internet and finding bupkis, I found that I'd likely have to get a custom built trailer. Needless to say, I got a bit of sticker shock.....

I am leaning toward an Aluminum trailer because the total weight of the rig is going to be right at the max tow capacity of my truck.

Before someone comments that I need to upgrade my tow vehicle, I need to say that's not in the cards in the near future.
Just getting the boat right now is probably not the best financial decision, but except for buying a trailer, all it's gonna cost me is the price of the transom repair.
It's an if you can fix it you can have it deal.....

After a bit of searching, I have just about decided on an Owens & Sons Slide on trailer.

They had one of the lowest prices I've gotten so far, and the lowest on an aluminum trailer. The pic on the web site look good, and I got a good vibe when I called them for info.

Anybody got any tidbits to share on the Slide On, or aluminum trailers in general.

It's going to be used in saltwater (lower Delaware Bay), and I want electric/hydraulic brakes not surge.

Among the manufacturers i got info from are Float On, Greatlakes, and Boatmaster.

Let's hear the opinions.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

I found that I'd likely have to get a custom built trailer.

Ayuh,... What's so odd about the bottom, it requires a Custom wagon,..??

Bunk trailers are just Fine,...
Especially if your launch is deep enough, as it just Floats on/ off anyways...

 

[N3UP]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

It's a catamaran hull.
Very similar to a Bayliner Rendezvous.

 

[eli_lilly]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

Owens and Sons is a very, very, very well-loved trailer builder with a top-notch reputation.

-E

 

[Silver Eagle]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

Eastern Marine in Newark Del has a nice set of Disc brakes for your trailer there 85 % stainless Steel. Stay away from the regular brakes in Salt water. Mine were always locking up until I changed over to Disc.I use mine in the upper Chesapecke Bay.

 

[DJ]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

The issues with Cat's are:

1. They are wide.

2. The "hulls" tend to be high/deep.

With that in mind, there are options but NOT cheap, as you are finding.

You have to find a trailer that does not put your hull so high as to be a "sail" and you have to launch it.

As with any trailer, the lower you can safely carry the weight, the better the towing and launching experience.

 

[1fishbone]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

How about using a boat hauler to get the boat home...then decide on the trailer.

If it's going to stay at a marina, not trailered every weekend, this might be another option, just use the hauler to launch and retrieve at the end of the season.

 

[N3UP]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

How about using a boat hauler to get the boat home...then decide on the trailer.

If it's going to stay at a marina, not trailered every weekend, this might be another option, just use the hauler to launch and retrieve at the end of the season.

I need the trailer to get it to the guy who's going to do the transom repairs.
I will need a trailer to get it home, and it will be trailered when not in use.

I may look into a slip once I get it home, there are quite a few empty slips lately, but I don't know if any are actually available.
I'd like to find one so I won't have to haul it out every day. Maybe put her in on Friday evening and pull her out on Sunday afternoon, or leave her in for the vacation week.

I don't really want to leave her in for the whole season, I on't what to have to hassle with bottom paint and such.

 

[N3UP]

Re: Slide On Trailer opinions

Owens and Sons is a very, very, very well-loved trailer builder with a top-notch reputation.

-E

That's the direction I'm leaning right now.
They had the best price for what I m looking for, and Jeff was very helpful on the phone answering my questions.
All I need do do now is line up the Benjamin's......