Want to build aluminum boat trailer

biederboat · 11-12-2002, 05:28 PM

I would like to build an aluminum boat trailer for a 21' aluminum Starcraft. It "was" a Chieftain (I/O w/ cuddy cabin) but with the graces of 8 years (mostly sitting in my yard!) has been transformed into a solid fishing machine with an open bow and outboard (yes, it was worth the wait, wouldn't trade it for anything). The boat (w/o trailer) is fairly light (less than 2,000 lb. gased & loaded) and most trailers for 21' (steel or aluminum) are built for quite a bit heavier of boat. Not only does this make the trailer weigh more, but the springs are a lot heaver as well.

Does anyone know someone who can build this (should have experience building aluminum boat trailers)? I'm willing to pay a decent amount, which would probably be more than a "factory" trailer.

Also, if there's anyone out there who has built one or had one built and can offer some advice on do's/don'ts I would take that as well.

I plan on making this a primarily bolted construction (especially if I do most of the work myself), similar to the "Boatmaster" trailers often used in Florida. While I'm interested in weight reduction (helps me aviod buying a full size SUV), there are some "fit in the garage" issues I can solve as well with a custom trailer.

Thanks,
Biederboat

FishinMission · 11-13-2002, 03:12 PM

Some of the sled Mfg's are making trailers. Seems like I've seen some North River aluminum trailers out there.

How about it...you North River guys???

Don't know if they'd custom make one one for you..but it sure wouldn't hurt to ask.

Mark

Silver Hilton · 11-13-2002, 07:20 PM

Look up Tricker Trailers. North River could gie you their info.

Jim · 11-13-2002, 07:41 PM

John Thormahlen, the original owner of Thor Built Boats builds an incredible custom trailer. Whether he can now or not I am not sure because of trailer liability issues. But I can tell you that my 21' just settles onto the trailer everytime, its awesome.

Jim

email me if you are interested and I can ask him: washingtonoutdoors@yahoo.com

Gobbaworms · 11-13-2002, 09:01 PM

You can also check out

http://www.championtrailers.com/

Mojo · 11-14-2002, 05:09 AM

I just bought a Tricker, and I love it! I recommend thier products to any boat owner.

If you are set on building your own, I'll sell you my old one, and you can re-build the frame. It has some rust issues, but the axles are perfect, and it has surge brakes. All you'd have to do is weld up the frame, and bolt on the axles. You might be able to cut out the weak points in the frame and weld in patches, but I think a whole new frame is a better idea.

One note, if you EVER plan on launching in the salt, make sure you stay away from aluminum. Galvenized is the only way to go.

E-mail me if you want to talk about my old trailer. It fits a 22' Alumaweld sled.