hull position on trailer

A

ASHLESS

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Aug 11, 2004
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C Dory Year
1983
C Dory Model
22 Angler
Hull Identification Number
MFN220580482
Vessel Name
A C DORY
I have an '83 22' fisherman. I am not sure that it is on the trailer correctly, the stern [to my way of thinking] is too far to the rear of the trailer rails. is there anyone out there that can advise on this issue? I have had the boat for 13 years, and it has been bugging me since day one...
Thankx , Ash
:?:
 
Ash, can you take a picture and post it? Without knowing how long the trailer is, or how much of the boat is on the trailer, it's hard to make a determination. If you've got enough tongue weight to make it tow comfortably (~10-15% of the total weight) and enough of the boat on the trailer, it should be fine as long as it's tied down securely at the stern.

Charlie
 
You sure don't want 10% to 15% of the trailer's weight on the tongue, not with a boat trailer with the center of gravity way aft. 5% to 7% is the general rule for boat trailers. Single axle camper needs the 10%-15% to avoid fishtailing.

-- Chuck
 
Hi Ash - welcome to the Pub. I like your nickname. Have anything to do with your erstwhile occupation?

I agree with Charlie on letting the tongue weight be the primary guide. Unless of course the axle is too far back underneath and the boat is moved back to compensate.

It seems to me that 6" to 12" overhang is about the norm. You might try loosening the winch strap with the boat hitched up, and seeing how much force it takes to lift the bow on the bunks. If you can pick it up pretty easy, then maybe it is sitting back too far and the axle needs to be moved to get the right tongue weight after shifting the boat forward.

However, if you have been towing the boat successfully for 13 years, it is probably pretty close to good. I know what you mean about things bugging you when they don't look right, though!

A picture or two would help a lot when the folks more knowledgeable than me check in. It has even been made easy for you - your new A C Dory album is all set up.


P.S. I only used that word "erstwhile" to impress Catman, who has been checking in a little more frequently lately. I hope it ain't used improperly.
 
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