Single Axel or Tandem Axel Trailer?

[win300mag1]

Hey guys. I’m going to be buying my first bass boat here soon and I’m trying to decide if the single axel trailer that the boat comes with is ok or if I need to special order one with a tandem axel trailer. The boat is a Ranger RT198P. The manufacturer specs are 19’6” in length and 1550 lbs. I drive a Toyota tundra. Most of my trips will be about 30 minutes of highway driving to the lakes, I usually won’t ever get over 65 mph. What do you guys think?

[gim]

It may depend on your state regs.  Here in MN any trailer with a weight of 3,000 pounds or more is required to have a tandem axle equipped with brakes, and the plates must have renewed tabs annually.

[Jig Man]

No need for a tandem with that boat weight.  Plus it will be a lot easier to maneuver by hand hooking and unhooking.

[A-Jay]

That 1550 lbs dry hull weight will jump up a bit when you add a tank of fuel, your motor & gear. 

Still a single axle candidate IMO just ensure the trailer tires included

are load rated to meet your needs.

I'm thinking a trailer tire load rating of D or maybe even E should do it.

Good Luck.

A-Jay

 

 

[steves191145]

My boat is close to yours  1880lbs  dry and I went dual axle. Add in a 150hp outboard, 4 group 31 batteries,  40 gallons of gas,   40 gallon livewell (we often fill at home with bluegills for catfish trips) fishing gear and coolers and it adds up fast.   

[Jig Man]

You might want to read this.
 

https://boattest.com/view-news/5353_how-to-choose-a-boat-trailer#:~:text=Typically%2C a single-axle trailer,manually than dual-axle models.

[mcipinkie]

I'd ask the  boys in Flippin.  They will know. 

 

My guess - Single axle is the way to go.

[Dwight Hottle]

I had a 18’ aluminum Lund and a 150 4 stoke with a single axle trailer and it worked out fine. My 20’ aluminum StarCraft with a 250 came standard with a twin axle trailer. Once you get to 18-20 feet the actual weight determines which way to go. 

[airshot]

Weigh your load, if you can safely get buy with a single, go for it !! Easier to handle a single all around...but if the weight requires a dual, go for it, safety is always first ..  

[Capt Ed]

In NC, all that matters is what the GVWR is.  If your trailer has a GVWR rating less than 4,000 lbs. you are not required to have brakes and the single axle is not a problem.  Ranger says the RTP198 trailer has a GVWR of 3725 so your good to go.   It does not matter what the total rig weighs.   Your Tundra will have no problem stopping your rig.

 

With the $2000 you'll save by going with a single axle and no brakes, immediately remove the Chinese Kenda tires and replace them with Goodyear Endurance's in your size.   Have them balanced and enjoy the tow.