Towing a Fixed Keel Sailboat: Trailer Setup and Transport tips

A practical overview of preparing and hauling a fixed-keel sailboat on a custom telescoping-riser, tandem axle trailer. In the previous Part 1 episode we looked at the trailer design elements for ordering or building a versatile keelboat trailer for various sized boats. In this follow-up video we look at the operational side of loading and hauling mid-size sailboats on the road. This includes loading the boat, unstepping the mast and securing on deck crutches, handling road logistics for short or long trips, and blocking up the trailer for storage. We also see what can happen when a travel lift breaks down and drops the boat. If you missed the boat trailer design overview, watch Part 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0RJOwusgTA&t=9s The trailer specs below will assist you in ordering a similar trailer with correct specifications or can be a starting guide for building your own trailer: 1. Lift-off type, tandem 7,000lb drop axles, both with electric brakes. 2. 14,000 GVWR construction, 7" channel, 2 5/16" ball. (You might notice the tag on the trailer states 12,500 lbs. We derated it so as not exceed the weight I’ll be using with my Class 5 ball-type hitch, and to stay within private-use registration tiers. Consider it a built-in safety factor.) 3. 7,000lb fixed tongue jack welded to frame (not the lighter swivel type). 4. Extendable nesting hull support channels and screwpads on threaded rods with 6 side supports placed outboard as far as possible (see sketch): Single bow center riser 26" long overall, 74 degrees. V screwpad at bow on sliding base held by U-bolts with extending riser channel. Two forward side supports risers 28" overall, 82 degrees. Two center side risers 28" overall, 90 degrees. Two aft side support risers 34" overall, 82 degrees. 5. Main 7” U-channel frames to continue forward within 8” of tongue for best support. 6. ST235/80R16 Range E tires or equivalent with spare tire. 7. Primer and black paint. 8. All galvanized fasteners. 9. LED lights. 10. Treated wood for screw pads and bed. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions. You can also contact me by email through AtomVoyages.com.