Trailer help

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Dc1211
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Location: Magnolia tx

Trailer help

Post by Dc1211 »

So I purchased a 3.3x5 utility trailer from Lowe’s and have plans to make it into a kayak trailer.

1st thing I think I need to do is extend the tongue so that the kayaked won’t hit my tailgate.

I’m getting some advice that if I extend the tongue it will make the trailer sway and be unsafe. And I would only be able to go about 50 mph.
I’ve seen many examples of trailers on here with much longer tongues than I’m planning on getting so I would love to here some advice from y’all.
Thanks
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kickingback
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Re: Trailer help

Post by kickingback »

Take it to a local welding shop and have them add extra length on tongue. It should not effect the trailer as the length is not a factor when towing. The only issues would be turning and backing up where you may have to compensate for the extra length.
I added a 2' section to my HF trailer and no issues. It cost me $30 at a local shop.
rockin4m
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Re: Trailer help

Post by rockin4m »

the only thing that will make it sway is the way you load the kayak. just have it balanced. centered over the trailer axle.
hipshot
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Re: Trailer help

Post by hipshot »

Extending the tongue won't make it sway; it may actually help it track straighter -- if it's done properly. I've done it before. If you want to save some money you can buy the materials and bring it to my place in New Caney; we can do the welding ( and any drilling / bolting / spell-casting chants required) here. We'd just need to work it into both our schedules; I'm off Mon/Tue and work extended hours on weekends. PM me if you're interested.
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Dc1211
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Location: Magnolia tx

Re: Trailer help

Post by Dc1211 »

Thanks for the comments guys. I’m a Coach/ teacher so I’ve got our welding teacher doing the work for me.
I don’t have any experience with trailers so y’all helped a lot.
Tombo
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Re: Trailer help

Post by Tombo »

Rule of thumb, have about 10% of the weight on the hitch. Too little and any trailer will sway.
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OrangeQuest
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Re: Trailer help

Post by OrangeQuest »

Tombo wrote:Rule of thumb, have about 10% of the weight on the hitch. Too little and any trailer will sway.
This rule also helps it not bounce quiet so much.
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