Trailering

[gott aweigh]

My wife and I just purchased a 16 cruiser and I am wondering about distances for hauling. I have a big enough vechicle, I just don't know how well trailer tires hold up. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks

[localboy]

Make sure they're properly inflated and have enough tread depth and tow to your heart's content. I'd also check the hubs and make sure the bearings/races are good, and depending on what kind of lubrication sysem is installed, I'd make sure that was in good order. On some systems you install some new seals w/ a good quality grease; others run sealed hubs filled w/ a thick oil. Just like any vehiclel if it's all in good running order it will be fine.

My one caveat: carry a spare, a jack, some 4X4 blocks and a lug wrench. They can go flat like any other tire (ask me how I know).

[JamesTXSD]

If your tires are the original on a 2006 trailer, they should be replaced. Tires have a useful like that is either time or miles... you can see when you've worn the tread down with miles; it's not always apparent that an old tire is about to come apart. Trailer tires have a hard life - they don't last as long as the tires on your car or truck. They are often the "weakest link" in a trailering setup. They also have a different speed rating than auto/truck tires. So, how far you can tow? If all is good with the tires, hubs, and bearings, you can tow all day long, day after day. If smoke pours out of the bearings or your tire comes apart while going down the road... you've gone too far. Not trying to be a smart ass with that comment; just take your time when towing. Make sure the tires are at their max inflation. Stop frequently and check the bearings, either with your hand or an IR thermometer. You don't have to drive the speed limit... we are in west Texas currently, and the speed limit here is 80 mph. I rarely exceed 65 mph when towing, and am usually closer to 60 mph.

Plenty of us here have towed our boats coast to coast. Take your time, take care, and keep an eye on things.

Congrats on the new boat!

[hardee]

Good advice so far. Your 16 will be on a single axle trailer, and should tow like a dream. It's a pretty light load but as mention, the tires and bearings are where the wear will show. Jim's right, trailer tires will wear out from age, so I'd do like he says if they are originals. Stored indoors or covered, might add a year, but it's not worth the danger or the hassle of having one come apart on the road, when the replacement can prevent all that.

Good luck, and enjoy the boat. I see you are just getting started around here. It's a good place so welcome and enjoy.

Harvey
SleepyC

[jennykatz]

When we purchased sweet 16 cruiser. The tires on the trailer were 12years old they looked great but we replaced them with new radials. We carry a spare tire , lug wrench, blocks .
If trailer is new to you check the bearings .
When you get to the launch site just let the boat sit and let the bearings cool down. The 16's are so easy to trailer and fun to drive . I'm sorry the Admiral want's our sweet 16 sold we have two many boats in the fleet. Jim

[gott aweigh]

I want to thank everyone for their advice regarding trailering. All good info and advice I will use. Thanks again

Michael