posted 11-21-2010 12:15 AM ET (US)        

Type of trailering is 98% fresh water
75% on winding mountain roads.
23.5% Hiway.
1.5% on gravel (Ranch roads)

Trailer # 1 we built in 2005:

Steel 3 in trailer channel steel
Single 6000lb drop axle with leaf spring
Corrosion resistant electric drum brakes
7 Stoltz 12in polyurethane V rollers with end caps
7 cross members
3 in square schedule 40 guides with 12in poly rollers
LED lights
Power coated red
Towing characteristics:
a) single axle trailer tracks very well
b) backing capabilities are very good, especially backing in tight places
c) easy launching and retrieving
http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc249/RobertRibley/ sidefrontangleview.jpg
http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc249/RobertRibley/Keelrollers.jpg

Trailer # 2:

2005 Rolls tandem axle, all aluminum bunk trailer
- Rolls Exclusive Lifetime Aluminum Spring
- Aluminum 3,500 lb. Axles with Stainless Wear Collars
- Fully adjustable Center Cut Cypress Bunks with Marine Carpet
- All Stainless Fasteners
- 3,000 lb. Plated Jack with Dolly Wheel
- All Aluminum Winch Stand & Tongue with 10,000 lb. Strap
- PVC Over Aluminum Guide-Ons with Reflectors
- Stainless Steel Safety Cables
- 1/8" Marine Grade Aluminum Fenders
- Wesbar Capsulated Lights
- Stainless Steel Hub
Towing characteristics:
a) tracks well
b) backs well (not as maneuverable backing as the single axle)
c) easy launching and retrieving
http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc249/RobertRibley/PA190289.jpg
http://i215.photobucket.com/albums/cc249/RobertRibley/PA190293.jpg

If I choose Trailer 2, I would add keel rollers to support the Whaler and LED lighting.

I sometimes trailer the Whaler behind our dual axle 22 foot Airstream.

I've done a lot of trailering of livestock, etc. my whole life but am having trouble making this decision.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts,
Robert

posted 11-21-2010 10:14 AM ET (US)            

Because of the towing environment you most encounter the higher strength of the steel trailer is desirable. The negatives I associate with the steel trailer are the electric brakes, and powder coating.

Virtually any sea water use of the trailer will provide maintenance problems with corrosion and the electric brake system. The powder coating will be damaged when towing on gravel roads.

Tandem axle trailers are not as easily handled as single axle trailers. The virtue is less heavily loaded tires and axles and the ability to continue on in the event of a tire failure by elevating the failed wheel and securing it to the frame. A very useful feature when trailering in the back country. I assume surge brakes are used with your aluminum trailer. With your extensive experience tandem axle handling difficulties should not be a problem.

For your stated use I believe trailer number two would best serve your long term requirements. If the trailer is not equipped with brakes I recommend you install corrosion resistant disc brakes with a surge actuator.