Trailer hull supports

[Jay Harris]

I recently purchased a 1974 25' MacGregor Venture w/trailer. There are two steel uprights on each side of the trailer which support 8' 1"x4" boards running length wise which in turn support the hull. Although there are no cracks in the hull, there are concavities immediately above each of the four steel uprights. I'm planning to lift the boat and replace the 1"x4"s with green treated 2"x6"s. Any opinions?

 

[Dean Smith]

Trailer ??

Is this a stock trailer? It doesn't sound like the Macgregor trailer, but then, I am a newcomer to the Macgregor ('96 26X). I've seen the sort of thing you describe. All I can say is that fiberglass is not like wood. It will take a set. Once it does, it is difficult to 're-set' it. What are you trying to accomplish by replaceing the 2x4's? Just replace the wood? My 26X is supported entirely on the bottom. I think that's a better design.

 

[Tom Gleeson]

I have read a similar problem as yours. I would change to a wider board (2"x6"x8'). The answer to the similar question was that the boat was stored on the trailer for an extended period of time in hot weather with the keel fully retracted. The manual for the Mac 25 instructs to lower the keel during storage to relieve the stress placed on the hull. This way the boat does not have to support the full weight of the keel. If you can inspect inside the hull where the depressions are and see if the supports are still in place. If you would like to print out the manual for your boat they have them available for free on www.trailersailor.comTom Gleeson1980 Mac 25 "Saoirse"tinantom@myway.com