Need to MacGyver a trailer for 17 this week

Hi all,

I have a line on a Hobie 17 w/o trailer and need to get it 100 miles to me in VT. I have a boat trailer big enough but how to make a quick and dirty bunk system? I was thinking about U bolting 2x 4 x 4's at 8' then what? Suggestions for mast? Holding the cat on side to side? Take it apart? Thought appreciated and no on will be held liable for any problems

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H18, H17 & Various motor boats

A set of four 2 x 4 x 8' will work, U bolted or secured in a similar fashion, plus some carpeting stapled on to protect the hulls. Email me off line re cradles, which are the best way to do.

You will need a vertical extension to the tongue of the trailer to 'cup' the front of the mast.
The rear of the mast can rest on the rear cross bar, with some foam or carpeting as cushioning. See the Hobie manual for all kinds of goodies that help with this stuff. (Mast caddy etc, aka 'support your local dealer.')

I suppose at worst, you can do the same at the front cross bar, PROVIDED that the front end of the mast does not smash into the back of your tow vehicle.
There is a 'how to' re trailering in this Forum, make sure the H17 and the mast are adequately secured to the trailer, tie downs etc.
Any SC's in your area? With Hobie type folks who can lend/rent you a trailer?

Good luck and drive safely.

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2015 H16, with spin,
SOLD 1989 Hobie SX18 Sail # 1947 "In Theory..."
'Only two things are infinite, the universe, and human stupidity. But I'm not sure about the former.'

Thanks john, great info. I do have a line on a 16 trailer, do you know if the hull width is the same as the 17? If not, I will make a version with 2 x 4 and email you with cradle questions. BTW, the wheels seem Soooo small on the 16 trailer I would think I'd burn them up on a hundred mile trip. I'll bring extra lube.

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H18, H17 & Various motor boats

Not sure about the center to center hull spacing of a 16 vs. 17, but if it just has rollers, it would probably be close enough. Otherwise, its usually very easy to reposition the rollers and pads to get them where you need them (assuming they aren't frozen, it's worth checking before the trip).

8" wheels are fairly common on Hobie trailers, however 12" will ride better, last longer, and be easier on the wheel bearings. Either way, its always a good idea to check the tires for dryrot/wear as well as the condition of the bearing grease if the trailer is suspect. There is nothing worse than being on the side of the road with a blown out trailer tire (I've had it happen too many times towing overloaded or poorly maintained trailers). Be sure to bring a spare tire as well as a jack & lug wrench that will work with your trailer tires. It can save you a lot of aggravation.

sm