will any trailer work???

[jimsbuddy]

While doing repairs on the boat today I noticed how Im in much need of a new trailer... this one is from 1930's ( or seems) and is pretty rusted. I was at a trailer/welder shop today and Eric told me abuot this small boat on a big trailer he has. It was a 14ft boat and it was way small for this trailer. He states a 22ft boat can fit on this trailer. I'm confident that my boat can fit the trailer. My concern is the boat supports.. right now there is only 2 2x4 or maybe it was 2x6 runners. Is that enough to support a 18ft aluminum boat. How can I know if it is properly fit. I'm going from an old roller style trailer so I have nothing to compare.

thx
Jim

[fishingls]

Most trailers should have a federally mandated plate indicating capacity. It is normally found on the inside of the frame. If this data plate is missing or cannot be read, determine the make and model of the axle. From this, you should be able to learn of the axle capacities.

Once you know the trailers capacity, combine the trailer wght sittiing on the axles along with the weight of your boat. From this information it can be determined if the trailer has sufficient capacity.

Tongue weight will factor into this, but that is not easily determined until you have the boat on the trailer.