Checklist for Buying a New or Used Boat Trailer Australia’s Boating Specialists
Not only is a boat trailer a flexible way to utilise your surrounding waterways and boat capabilities , it is a much more affordable way of storing your boat than a permanent marina berth. High quality trailers might reflect their price range. Be careful when purchasing a trailer that appears to be of good value isn’t just cheap to ensure a quick sale. When purchasing confirm the condition and registration of a used trailer as rust and corrosion will not only prevent re-registration but will compromise the safety of your boat and other road users. Any boat owner will tell you the importance of a durable, quality boat trailer.
New and Used Boat Trailer Parts
My Boating Shop is Australia’s leading resources for all things boating. With a great range of new and used trailers and boating accessories, you can be sure to find a trailer to fit your boat and boating needs.
Some things to verify on inspection of a boat trailer before towing your boat include checking the coupler, hitch, hitch ball and safety chains. Make sure all fasteners and wheel lug nuts are tight and secure. Ensure all when bearings are properly adjusted and maintained. Tires should be properly inflated and fit the maximum load carrying capacity. Check all indicators and brake lights are working correctly; brakes quality must be certified against state motor vehicle standards.
Certification
The most important factor when researching used trailers is that the trailer complies with Australian Certification and safety regulation standards. This certification includes area of registration procedure, brakes, lights ID plates, capacity ratings and couplings. The aggregate trailer mass (ATM) will determine whether it needs to be inspected before registration. The details of the registration will vary between the different states and territories.
Used boat trailers are a great alternative if you are looking to save a bit of money. Be careful however, that you are getting the right trailer for your boat.
Weight
When buying a trailer separate to the boat consider choosing a boat with a higher weight than that of just your boat. You are likely to store additional equipment in your boat, including fuel, that won’t be accounted for in the “dry weight” of your boat.
Make sure you have a vehicle that has a towing capacity to match the boat and trailer weight. You can find your vehicles towing limitations and further information in your vehicle owner’s manual. Ensure you have the right man power when handling your boat at the ramp. Boats over 25 feet will often need more than one handler when launching off a boat ramp.
Water proofing
Make sure the lights and electrical components of your boat trailer are waterproofed allowing drive on capabilities of the boat when launching into the water. Salt and fresh water environments require different types of water proofing. Enquire as to the standards of waterproofing on any new or used trailer you might purchase.
Owning a trailer gives you greater freedom to explore different waterways with your boat. Moving your boat becomes as simple as choosing where to go and hitching up! My boating shop has a range of quality new boating trailers as well as a great selection of affordable used boating trailers. For more information on boat trailer and boating accessories visit www. MyBoatingShop.com.au, Australia’s boating specialists.