Boat Dealer and Used Trailer Capacity

[FiremistSLK]

The dealer I am buying my used boat from has put a used 2016 Magic Tilt Alum. trailer under it. The boat is a 21' deck boat with a net weight of approx. 4,000 lbs. I looked up the trailer specs. based on the model number. It is a TALS2044 18'‑20' 4400 net capacity. Is this the correct trailer for this boat? Is it safe for the boat size and weight? My tow vehicle is a 2012 Silverado V8 with a tow capacity up to 7,000 lbs. P[ease help as I do not want to be unsafe on the road.

 

[blaster]

That’s the absolute minimum but it is borderline once you factor in any gear, fuel, toys, and accessories that may be in the boat. The boat may also not be well supported at the keel depending on how the trailer is set up. I would see if the dealership can go up a size on the trailer.

 

[FiremistSLK]

I thought so! I will try to negociate for a "one size up" trailer when mext I speak with the sales person. I want the boat and will pay a few more $$ to get the correct, safe trailer.... Thank you.

 

[440 Jim]

I would also, probably a bit short to tie transom down too. Barely minimum IMHO.

My Proline Bay is on a Continental that is the same way. In my case it's plenty heavy enough, but a bit short, have to go over the side with the tie down.

Rosta ruck!

 

[FiremistSLK]

Here's a pic of the boat on the trailer. It looks like it fits the trailer well as the transom is dead even with the bunks that overhang the trailer main beams by 6" or so. I also found that the net weight for the boat is 3,800 lbs. Trailer has disc brakes also. More comments are welcome........

 

[ttmott]

The trailer does look short. Also, it appears that the boat needs to be a bit more forward. What is the tongue weight full fuel?

 

[blaster]

The center of gravity matters. ttmott is spot on as usual. Have that rig weighed. How often and how far do you plan to trailer the boat? That has an impact on your decision.

 

[GypsmJim]

Your first post says its a 21' boat on an 18-20' trailer. That was the first clue. The pic says it all. The trailer is too short.

You learn a lot about a dealer that tries to tell you that things are Ok when they are not. Look over other parts of the deal before you sign.

It makes no matter how far you want to trailer it. I have seen a few tire related issues with boat trailers on the highway (all induced by old or underinflated tires), but most of the "accidents" I have witnessed have been on the launch ramp.

 

[FiremistSLK]

Let me answer some of these questions in the previous few posts. I don't know the total weight of the rig. I do know the boat net will be about 4,000 and the trailer weighs 675. I plan to leave the boat on the trailer between using it at the local lakes on the weekends, with an occasional trailering to the gulf coast (120 mi each way). My problem is that I really love the boat. It is perfect for my needs. Not too big but roomy, and it has a potti enclosure (for the grand kids). There is not another like it for sale on any of the web sites. Bigger ones yes, but too big for my needs. The boat was originally advertised without the trailer. If the dealer cannot change the trailer, I will begin my search for the correct trailer. I hope I will find another used one because a new one is scary expensive! Thanks to all who replied and helped me make my decision...... I will NOT accept the boat on this "too small" trailer.

 

[boatman37]

i'd be surprised if that trailer only weighs 675lbs. If I had to guess I'd think at least 800-900. Not that that is a huge difference but accuracy will be important when figuring capacities. My trailer is bigger but is an aluminum tandem axle and it weighs 1325lbs. It is for a 25' boat so slightly bigger that the one you are looking at.