Trailer - winch post issue

[Wayward Sun]

I just finished launching and recovering my 280 Sundancer for the first time. The previous owner replaced the winch post with a brand new replacement part from Trailer Parts Superstore. SKU number 5257047. Part number #43588A. The rating capacity is 3200 lbs. It's already bent and two welds are starting to crack about 1/4". The part is installed correctly. IT looks like a direct replacement part. Is this normal? I've launched and loaded boats on trailers for years and never seen anything like this. Any idea's why this part is breaking? Do I need something more heavy duty? What should be the load rating I need for my boat. The ramp is really not very steep. Puzzled......

 

[hughespat57]

Specs say your 280 is 8,500 lb dry, with fuel and water you're at 9,324
Then you have to add whatever gear you carry.
I see in your avatar photo a tri-axle trailer, that's good but the post is probably to small.
Especially if you are winching the boat up at all.
But it also needs to be tough enough to hold the boat back when stopping hard.

The post does not need to rated at the full trailer weight because you're not lifting the boat like a crane.
But again most venders already take that into account and their "rating" is based on the size of the boat.

I would try and contact the trailer manufacturer and see what they recommend.
But at least this https://www.easternmarine.com/50-galvanized-boat-trailer-winch-post-43587
It's tall 50" if that's to much just cut down the top and use a little cold galvanizing paint and a rubber top boot. It's rated 8,400lb

I cut mine down to clear the anchor easier.

 

[Wayward Sun]

Thanks Patrick. I was replaying the video in my head when I drove it up on the trailer. I got it in between the bunks on the first try, but it bounced a little sideways and caused my bow to turn to the left a little. I backed the boat off a little, got it straight and gave it a little throttle and hit the winch post with a little too much force I think. It moved the truck as well. It's very possible that this was self induced. I thought about this right after I made this post. I think we might have had the trailer a little too deep too - just a tad. I'll put it down as a learning experience. With the galvanized "paint" on it, can it be rewelded? The two welds are only cracked less that a 1/4 of an inch.

TIA!