Hi does anyone know know where I could purchase a single axle launching trailer for a 26m? I have been using my road trailer but the salt is taking its toll on the bearings and suspension units
Tue, 27/04/2021 - 3:53pm
#1
Launching trailer
Hi Robert
I can't help wondering how you'd propose transferring the boat from the road trailer to the launch one? Or do you keep it dry-parked at a marina and just launch and recover each time you use it?
In the latter case it makes sense, but a launch trailer needs to be pretty much the same as a road one, although single axle is adequate, whereas twin axle is always best for the road.
I'd suggest your best bet would be to try to get a normal 26M trailer second hand (easier said than done though), and just keep it for launch purposes. To avoid problems with seized brakes you can completely remove the brake components - take the shoes out of the hubs, and remove the cables etc. The bearings will get worn and noisy, but it doesn't really matter so long as they don't get to the point of the wheels falling off! A bit of annual maintenance should keep them working well enough.
Rick Jones (Treasurer), former 26X & 19 owner, Isle of Wight
Thank you for your advice Rick.
Hallo, Robert,
I have been trying to find second hand M road trailer for a year now without success. They are like hen's teeth.
Mine rusted from the inside of the box girder section; the wheels, brakes, axles, bearings etc were all fine as the trailer collapsed around them.
A recent members discussion suggested that Lizard Trailers of Cornwall were good.
Mersea Trailers of Colchester have all the plans and used to make the American Trailers road legal in the UK as they were shipped to Felixstowe or Ipswich before the Mac was transported to Falmouth to be set up. This, of course was in the 'old days' when there was an active and busy import/distribution business in the UK. Some members have been dissatisfied with their service but I found them very polite and helpful. The salesperson suggested that if you want to buy a second hand trailer you probably ned to buy the boat that goes with it as well.
Good Luck with your search.
Simon Armitage
Commodore
Sowenna 26M, 2005, River Blackwater.
I have a lizard trailer that has given me really good service.
David Claassen
"Logan's Run"
2006 26M
Hello Robert,
Have you thought of having one made? Quite simple as long as it's only a yard trailer. No need for brakes, electrics, suspension even. 2 chassis rails and some cross members with covered wood for bunks and any old tow hitch would do.
David Kirk
26X Glissando
Dumfriesshire, Scotland