Boat size (safety related) question

[HURRICANEBOB]

While I am on a roll, I might as well ask what is probably a dumb question.

The dealer says that trailer brakes are not necessary and nobody gets then with that size boat, is that true? My only experience with towing is with RV's and they always had brakes.

Thanks again for the help (and putting up with what are probably basic questions)

I towed a 3200 20 foot pontoon boat for 5 years with a Dodge mini van, then for 8 years with a Dodge 250 full sized van. I think its more important what you are towing it with. If its a full sized pickup or van, especially one with ABS you will have no trouble at all. Total up the weight of your rig, add in weight for gas, and each battery and trolling motor. Compare that to the towing capacity of your tow vehilce and its weight. If still uncertain. I'd say spend the extra money and get the brakes for piece of mind.

[SLP]

I will be towing it with a decent sized truck. I just wanted to make sure that it was normal for boat trailers to often not use brakes. Sounds like it is, thank you.

[artcarney_agr]

I will be towing it with a decent sized truck. I just wanted to make sure that it was normal for boat trailers to often not use brakes. Sounds like it is, thank you.

Brakes are more of a luxury item, and common with heavier fiberglass boats usually on a tandem axle trailer.

A decent sized pickup truck with a fairly wide wheel base will be more than sufficient, especially with an aluminum boat.

A little car tying to stop quickly with a heavy boat pushing it during braking can cause the car to sway and make staying in a lane difficult.

[SLP]

Brakes are more of a luxury item, and common with heavier fiberglass boats usually on a tandem axle trailer.

A decent sized pickup truck with a fairly wide wheel base will be more than sufficient, especially with an aluminum boat.

A little car tying to stop quickly with a heavy boat pushing it during braking can cause the car to sway and make staying in a lane difficult.

Thanks, that is good to know. That is what I was told from the dealer, but I just wanted to make sure, not having ever towed one before.

[waterdog101]

keep the life vest on the kids, and be safe. I fish from a 16ft boat. they are safe, easy to tow, cheaper to operate. and the fish don't care what kind or size of boat you have. enjoy the water.

[SLP]

keep the life vest on the kids, and be safe. I fish from a 16ft boat. they are safe, easy to tow, cheaper to operate. and the fish don't care what kind or size of boat you have. enjoy the water.

Thanks for the reassurance. I appreciate it.

Now I am just anxious for it to be made and shipped to the dealer. It is going to be hard waiting for it.