Hi Guys
This forum is a great resource. I've learnt heaps here already.
I'm currently looking at purchasing a TI (unless I hate it after I try one out). My girlfriend has bought a 4 metre fishing kayak. It's quite wide so I am going to build a double deck trailer.
eBay has provided me with this second hand Jetski trailer complete with an overhead cargo rack.
The tailer is a bit narrow between the guards but I figure I can make the TI high enough for it to be above them and still be fully assembled. I've taken a lesson for my last boat ( a trailer sailer) where excessive set up time limited my boating. My goal is to build a trailer that:
* Stores both kayaks fully assembled to speed launching and pack up.
* Is easy to use so that I can hitch it up any time I want to go sailing with minimal preparation.
* Is fully self contained so that all equipment is stored in the trailer not the car. (or lost somewhere in the garage)
* Allows me to launch and retrieve single handed. Using the strap winch if I'm at a normal ramp or using a trolley if otherwise.
* Stores all equipment securely when the trailer is left at the ramp.
* Provides adequate support so that the Kayaks can live permanently on the trailer, fully assembled, without causing hull distortion.
I've read pretty extensively through the forum but still have some questions. The first job is to extend the length of the trailer. I have extended the draw bar with a single length of RHS it's now finished and ready to be galvanised. The photo shows it fitted up and tack welded.
The next job is to build a bolt on frame to extend the rear of the trailer. I thought minimal boat overhang would be best but without a boat sitting on it the trailer is starting to looks very long! I need to decide how long to make this rear frame. I've set the front of the trailer up with 3 metres from the axle centre to the winch post. I've also left enough room in front of the winch to open the tailgate on the car.
If I go with the TI this leaves 2.64 metres of boat behind the axle. Do I build the frame to the full length or leave some boat overhang?
I'm was thinking about reusing the existing bilge roller racks that the Jetski used to sit on for the extended rear section to assist in launch and recovery. But I think it will be too heavy? Does anyone think this will work? I can provide more photos of what I had in mind if it's not clear.
I have lots of other questions but that will do for a start.
Thanks
Brad