posted 10-09-2006 07:54 PM ET (US)            

http://www.phoenixtrail.com/

It is a custom aluminum trailer they built the way I wanted it. I plan to keep the boat for years so a little extra money over that time is money well spent.

posted 10-14-2006 03:56 PM ET (US)            

Model = TEZ 19-22/24--5,200-lb carrying capacity, 6,500-lbs GVWR

http://www.ezloader.com/pdefault.asp

The model they currently make is slightly different than mine. The new models have torsion axles--a plus.

This trailer is primarily a bunk trailer but it likely can be ordered with an extra cross member or two. You could install keel rollers on the cross members. Mine has three cross members with keel rollers.

My trailer has brakes on all four wheels. This is a very good idea on heavier boats. The brakes are hydraulically operated drum brakes, actuated by a DICO Model-6 surge actuator. The trailer weighs about 1,200-lbs. It is constructed of galvanized steel box frames. The frames are a rather large and stout 5-inch X 2-inch channel, which often leads to some problems mounting accessories; many things are shipped with U-bolts or mounting plates which will only fit 4-inch channel.

One advantage with going with a trailer brand which has national distribution is after-sale parts will generally be available. I had to make some repairs to the trailer after a collision, and E-Z-Loader was very helpful in selling me the parts. They had all the components I needed, even though the trailer was 14-years old.

There generally are many options available for trailers to help fit them to your particular application. For example, the E-Z-LOADER I mentioned above is also available with a longer tongue. This may be helpful in launching from some ramp situations.

If I were buying a new trailer, I would look for:

--tandem axle
--torsion axle
--disc brakes
--sturdy frame with cross members
--good distribution and support for brand

One trailer company which has an interesting new design is Shorelandr. They have a multi-roller keel roller assembly which is perfect for a Boston Whaler boat. See:

http://www.shorelandr.com/asp/t_boat_4000.asp

Their model SLB58T would be a good choice:

http://www.shorelandr.com/asp/t_boat_temp.asp?id=463&style=Bunk

posted 10-16-2006 07:44 AM ET (US)            

I see many new trailers using a surge brake actuator made by UFP. Their actuator is much cleaner mechanically. It is integrated right into the trailer tongue. The older style actuators (like the DICO) bolt-on atop the tongue and are something of a mechanical kluge on the trailer frame. The UFP looks much more streamlined and well-integrated. I do not know if the UFP is available with enough GVWR for really large trailers. Their A60 actuator is rated for 6,000-lbs GVWR; their A70 model is for 7,000-lb GVWR. Their website also has some good multi-media content showing how their actuators work

See:

http://www.ufpnet.com/

and follow the link to "ACTUATORS".

Also see:

http://www.ufpnet.com/PDF/A60-70Maint.PDF

UFP also makes torsion axles and disc brakes. I believe that PHOENIX is using the UFP system on their trailers. I also see it a lot on other high-end boats where the boat manufacturer offers a trailer package.

posted 10-22-2006 08:48 PM ET (US)            

The leaf springs are standard. I did not ask about torsion springs because I was unsure about them.

I have a swing tongue and its welded on very neatly.

The brake actuator does not look like most. It's hidden in what looks like a tongue with no brakes. It's a neat package.

The backup light reverse lock out works well with Martha's newer Explorer. With my older truck I have to install the little gizmo to keep the the brakes off when backing up.

posted 11-01-2006 04:36 PM ET (US)         

Continental (Miami FL)
Vee Frame Galvanized Tilt Trailer series (you will never need to use the tilt feature with a tandem)
Model # CTWV 22, in 6000# carrying capacity (14" wheels)
dual axle disc brakes.
Dual 12" Stoltz roller on each cross member, with SS shafts.

This is a newly introduced, re-designed model, now 8'6" overall width.

I would project cost about $3000-3500.

I use same series trailer under my 25 Outrage.

No way would I have an aluminum drive-on trailer under the boat.

If you go down to get one, buy several others, such as would fit 18 Outrages or Montauk, (or if you can find some people for a special order ahead of time) and bring 3 back with you for sale. The profits will cover the cost of your trip. Continental will stack them up for you for travel, with yours on the bottom, at no charge.