How to Determine the Length Capacity of a Boat Trailer
Boat owners must ensure that all towing equipment meets certain standards. Questions may arise about the strength of a tow hitch and tie-downs as well as the towing capacity of the trailer. When towing a boat that exceeds the trailer's length capacities, the trailer can tip or the boat slide due to improper weight distribution. Always check local and state laws concerning towing; many states require the total length of the vehicle plus the towed boat to fall under a certain length.
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Instructions
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Measure the boat trailer, from the front of the bed of the trailer (the flat part, without including the tow hitches) to the end of the bed of the trailer.
A boat trailer can only hold a boat equal to the length of the trailer's body plus the length of the bow pulpit and motor transom of the boat.
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Count the number of axles on your trailer. Single axle trailers generally tow less than 18-foot long boats. Generally, at 20 feet a trailer has another axle.
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Measure the entire length of the boat you want to place on the trailer, including the length of the bow pulpit and motor transom. Make sure your trailer has sufficient axles to support the overall length of the boat.
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Tips & Warnings
Although some instructions may state that bow pulpit and motor transoms are not included in overall length, you must have sufficient clearance between the boat and the vehicle to avoid contact while turning and other maneuvers.
Always double-check the maximum boat length on your trailer with the company that made the trailer. The damage from accidents involving boat towing, however slight, can cause serious harm to yourself or others.
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Resources
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