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I am making some changes to the trailer under my 18 Outrage.
The first change is adding double keel rollers. Is it better to use a single bolt thru the frame to secure both roller brackets or will using 1 1/2 inch bolts on each side work just as well? I do know that some members use a single bolt above the trailer frame to ensure that the roller brackets can only slip down so far if things let go.
I am also planning on extending the tongue 6 inches to hopefully keep the car out of the water. If I don't move the boat, will 6 inches change the handling to where I may need to move the axle?
I have a set of double rollers on my rear crossmember. They are attached with 2 large U bolts. I have a few photos in my trailer album (click on my profile, website then trailer photos.)
As for adding 6", it will slightly decrease the tongue weight but, given the short addition, it will not be noticeable. I don't think you will need to change the axle position. If you are currently at the lowest % of total weight, you will. I would do the addition and then re-measure the tongue weight using the bathroom scale method.
I would then install two 1/2 inch by ? bolts with large washers through the bracket, frame and then the second bracket. Two large diameter bolts is, in my view, better then bolting each bracket individually. Is the cross member a box or is it open?
The cross member is open. I may decide once I drill the second set of holes. If I get it right and they go straight thru, I will use at least one thru bolt. If I miss, looks like I will use bolts on each bracket.
