Trailer length

[wellcraftv20step]

I'm aware of the rule of thumb that your boat trailer should be 2 ft longer than your boat. However I'm not sure if that includes a bow pulpit or not. And while I'm posting what advantage does a bunk trailer with rollers offer? I'm assuming their is a specific reason for that! I've only used roller trailers never had a bunk trailer

[Destroyer]

John, I've never heard of that rule. In fact, I'd be worried if all I had was 2 feet longer. Think about it. The rollers end at the transom, so even allowing a foot overhand for the roller support that makes your trailer is only 23' at it's longest, which, for a V20 means your trailer only has 3 feet of usable tongue length max. On to that you have to mount a trailer jack, maybe a spare tire, a brake actuator, winch post and still allow for side to side trailer movement when making a turn either going forward or backing up. So, IMHO 2' just isn't going to make it. I'd be much happier with 4' minimum. (Oh, and don't forget you have to allow for the possibility of shifting your winch post as well as your trailer axle(s) to arrive at the proper tongue weight for towing).
I guess what I'm saying is that IMHO it's far better for the trailer to be a little longer than shorter.

As for the bow pulpit question, I would think you measure from a plumb line dropped down from the furthest most point on the boat, which means yes, you count the pulpit. (Don't forget, that pulpit is going to hit the *** end of your car if the trailer is too short).

[wellcraftv20step]

Your absolutely rite Paul,,that all makes sense. My boat is 24.1 feet long with the added pulpit. Si I guess I'm looking at a 27/28 foot trailer. I have a 30 ft long boat driveway that I need to keep in mind when looking for a trailer....

[SkunkBoat]

Ask the experts...

http://www.loadrite.com/trailers-101/

[wellcraftv20step]

So I took skunks advice and called the experts.. the expert told me that I should have a trailer that is 2 feet longer than my boat so go figure! Paul I still agree with your logic.

[phatdaddy]

When u say trailer length, do you mean total length or length from winch post. A 24 ft boat is not going to fit on a trailer that is 26 ft long

As far as bunk vs roller, personal choice. I like bunk, but my local ramp is short and steep. You have to submerge 80% of the trailer with a bunk. The boat has to float off. With a roller, just needs an incline. Bunk has no moving parts, roller has a bunch of them. With a bunk you can drive the boat to the winch post. With a roller, you winch it up. I do a lot of solo launching and i think bunk is a lot easier launching and loading.

I'd go with aluminum I-beam and torsion axles

[wellcraftv20step]

Total length Phat ! The Dealer did not even seem concerned about the bow eye to transome measurement. I'll have to think on this a little more. I may even call another dealer today and see if his advise differs .

[wellcraftv20step]

https://longisland.craigslist.org/tro/5993698160.html. was cruising Craigslist and came across this... I think this guy mite be dyslexic!!!!!

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by wellcraftv20step

https://longisland.craigslist.org/tro/5993698160.html. was cruising Craigslist and came across this... I think this guy mite be dyslexic!!!!!

LOL Ya think????

Lets see... Boat is on backwards, Rollers on trailer are old, cracked and need replacement, fender is missing from one side, tongue is rusted and connector is missing... Ya, that's a steal for $500... only problem is the seller is the one stealing the money.

There should be a law prohibiting some people from boat ownership.

[Destroyer]

Oh, one other thing I forgot to mention about the length of the trailer. A longer trailer is easier to back up. Yes, you lose a little maneuverability but on turns, but the longer a trailer is the easier it is to back into position. Ask any truck driver.