235 trailering experiences

[Frederick Corey]

As you know from first thread, am looking for a 235 and with, or separately, trailer. Am downsizing from a Bristol 27 as we'd like to sail Maine without having to sail there first.Question. Would prefer single axle due to lower weight but Triad suggests double axle as it tracks better on highway. Anyone have experience with towing single or double axles that could shed light on this problem? Does any one have surge brakes on both axles instead of just one?I'd appreciate any insights you'd care to share.

 

[Neil]

2 heads (axles) are better than 1

The tandem axle variety does track better (less fish-tailing) - especially when the 'bow wave' from an 18-wheeler hits the trailer & boat as it flies by at 70+.Another 'anticipated' benefit of two axles (though not experienced yet by me though - thankfully), is that if you ahve a blow-out at speed, it'll probably be easier to get the whole thing under control with at least one good tire on wach side still intact.My trailer has surge brakes only on the fron axle.Finally, good F235s are hard enough to find without getting too choosey about trailers - if you find a really nice boat (for the right price) without a trailer, gett it, then buy a nice trailer for it (you'll pay at least $3000 for a 2-axle model). Having a trailer should also help your resale value enormously later on - or, at least, increase the number of people who would be interested in coming to see your boat.Good luck.

 

[David Walters]

Two axle alum. a good compromise

If weight savings is a large concern, then consider an Alum. trailer. My, though oversized, weighs about 1000 lbs. less than it's galvanized equivalent, and tips the bar at just under 1000 lbs. (30ft overall length, 8'6" wide, tandem axle w/ surge brakes on front only). Another advantage to the dual axles is that the trailer is less likely to hobby-horse over bumps and such. This is expecially important if your towing with a modern day midsized SUV, which typically have a shorter wheelbase. I've towed mine with an Isuzu Rodeo (really the limits of this vehicle), and a Chevy Astro. The Astro tows like a champ!As far as having brakes on both axles, there really is no need and it is just another system to maintain.

 

[Kelly Holsten]

Single Axle Tow with Prayer but fine

Well, I have had my now forlorn F235 on a single axle trailer for far too many months now, only to finally come off due to Hurricane Isabel, due to pass over our NC location tomorrow around noon. My F235 is now on stands.It did fine on the single axle trailer, a model that was made for the fixed keel Santana 22. We drove the beast on a 4 hour jaunt from Charleston, SC to here and it did fine besides the constant prayer and worry, mainly because the trailer tires were used and made for a Toyota Celica and not a Beneteau F235. With quality tires, the single axle trailer should do fine besides the obvious advantages listed in the previous posts. I think a 2 axle unit is probably a good call overall but just wanted to say that a good single axle DOES indeed work and performed fine on the long haul. It sure is easier to turn the beast and you dont get that terrible tire distortion with the dual axle models. There is less weight as well.There is a local company that will build a custom single axle, aluminum trailer with long bunks and a keel guide, this for only $1600. I am seriously considering ordering this trailer and will report on the details. There is a two week build time. I'll post more details HERE and on www.beneteau235.com.khhttp://www.beneteau235.com/