The single axle was always a concern of mine

Posted By: Paul 1989 S23 "Half Moon", NJ
Date: 4/17/09 4:24p.m.

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In Response To: Trailer ? (Joel Wasson (Seward 22))

also, but it has yet to give me a problem.... I agree the boat is borderline too heavy for the trailer - 3600 lbs including trailer is certainly pushing it - but I don't trailer with the engine on; leave the water tank empty and put all other "stuff" in the car (engine, cooler, spare tire, tool box, extra water, etc.) I typocally bring a five gallon jug with poor spout and put it in the car, to fill the watertank a bit after I launch... I did have a horrible experience with my Catalina 22, which also had the single 3600lb axle - I set one of the bearings on fire during a long trip into upper NY - was "had" - big time - by a "helpfull" local towing company and repair facility and after a week and $2,000 (which included $80 for "phone charges" to locate a new axle, I had my trailer back, beit without brakes.... I exchanged the old 3600lb axle with a 5000lbs one - needed to change hubs and lugs and wheels/tires, but I sure felt more comfortable knowing I had some "spare" capacity back there afterwards. The Catalina, mind you, was loaded for a two week trip, including multiple cases of water, soda, beer, two suitcases, three bicycles and Lord knows what else; the car had the whole family in it - me, the Admiral, three kids; we had the Kayak on the rooftop, the dog in the back.... of my faithfull Ford Explorer... heh, heh, heh... Must have been a sight to see for passer by's - especially the one honking his horn and pointing at the trailer as he passed... Not until I came to a comlete stop, did the bearing "puff" into flames, billowing black smoke - the entire side of the boat was sprayed with black grease.... I tell you, I would not wish this experience onto my worst enemy... Now that I, once again, am stuck with a heavy boat on a 3600lb axle, I make sure I put more in the car and leave the boat as bare as I can... Knock on wood, but she trailers like a charm and the bearings never even get warm (I stop and check about every hour)... Oh, and I now tow with a GMC Yukon...