Need New Trailer

RIBoater · #1 07-25-2006, 11:25 AM

Hey folks,

This is my first post so please forgive any newbie moves. I have a 1989 V-20 with a Suzuki 140 4-Stroke, I need to buy a new trailer kind of pronto. A local dealer has a Long trailer, tandem axle, stainless brakes on both axles, stainless leaf springs, 4600# capacity, bunk trailer for around $2700.00. :-/

I was wondering if this trailer sounds appropriate for the boat and if the price sounds OK.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

RIBoater

reelapeelin · #2 07-25-2006, 12:11 PM

RIB, that sounds like a pretty nice trailer for $2700...you could probably spend some time lookin' around and trim SOME off the price, but if ya need to go ahead, you're not gettin' hurt ;)...that's about what I'd expect to fork over for one like that...you might get it for less w/ some of the Florida trailer mfgrs, but then you'd have to get it home...I'd say get it :D ...

IMPORTANT: learn how the brake systems work B4 you pay for it (while you've still got their attention)...have them go over how everything works...I BLEW some $$$ on mine in repairs because I didn't understand some things about HOW my brake system works... ::) :P ...lubricating caliper pins, fluid fill and WHAT the fluid fills...little details like that ;)...

Once it's yours, take a 5 gal bucket of freshwater to the ramp and douse each caliper w/ it after you drop the boat into saltwater...do this each time and your brakes will last lots longer...then after you load the boat, hose 'em off again REAL GOOD... ;) ...

chumbucket · #3 07-25-2006, 01:59 PM

Welcome to the site RIBoater. We're newbie friendly here. ;)
That's a good price for a trailer with those specs. I wouldn't waste too much time trying to get a better deal. Buying it locally will will probably offset and marginal difference than what you may pay for having to travel to purchase for less.

Zebra · #4 07-25-2006, 02:35 PM

Alot to be said for peace of mind when your pulling a boat down the road. Just use it and you'll feel better about the price each time you get there and back home safe...

Welcome to the site...
Z

kamikaze · #5 07-25-2006, 07:31 PM

RIBOATER:

I would be interested in hearing your opinion and perhaps some real world performance numbers from 4 stroke - 140 HP pushing a V20? Thinking about re-powering and would like some input from someone with this configuration.

Thanks

Kamikaze

TheTinMan · #6 07-25-2006, 08:57 PM

RIB, I'd suggest looking into torsion axles instead of leafsprings.

phatdaddy · #7 07-26-2006, 12:01 AM

I also would suggest torsion axels over leaf springs and I have never heard of stainless leaf springs, also interested in performance numbers with the 140 4 stroke. I have a friend that bought a 24 ft carolina skiff with the evinrude version of that motor and raves about it.

RIBoater · #8 07-26-2006, 11:45 AM

Well, it turns out that the trailer didn't have stainless leaf springs or stainless brakes. It had drum brakes on both axles with stainless hardware in the brakes (holddown springs, etc.) and leaf springs. It had an aluminum frame with galvanized crossmembers and pretty much standard rigging.

I think I'm just gonna fix the existing trailer and buy myself some time to research and shop for a replacement trailer. I would still appreciate any input on brand, roller vs bunk for this hull, dealer, etc. I'm sure somebody out there has been through this already. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

As far as the 140 Suzuki goes - it's awesome. Plenty of power. OK out of the hole. Not the fastest boat out there but probably goes in the mid thirties WOT. It's great on fuel - fish hard all day on 20 gallons. FWIW, I met a guy at the dock at Pt. Judith the other day with the same configuration and he loves it too.

The only thing I can say is that the 3 year, transferable extended warranty (years 4 - 6) is BS. I bought the motor used with about 100 hours right after the 3 year factory warranty ran out. Because the seller didn't fill out a form, supply all of the service records and send in a fee within 30 days of the sale price, the extended warranty is void. Although I love the product, I'm not a happy camper with their marketing/customer service right now.

Thanks for the replies,

RIB

TheTinMan · #9 07-26-2006, 03:15 PM

Try here: http://www.nextrailofamerica.com/

I love mine! tandem 6000lb., torsion axles, disk brakes.

Give them a call and see how much with shipping, I bet it's close to that other trailer and your gettin much more.

Bought my boat in March and trailer came with it. I do have a receipt for around $2500, but that is without delivery.

RIBoater · #10 07-26-2006, 11:26 PM

[quote author=TheTinMan link=board=Performance;num=1153833930;start=0#8 date=07/26/06 at 13:15:02]Try here: http://www.nextrailofamerica.com/

I love mine! *tandem 6000lb., torsion axles, disk brakes.

They look good. I sent an e-mail asking for a quote. Do you have center bunks in the front and, if not, does it go on OK without them?

Thanks,

RIB