On Wed, 15 Mar 2017 14:31:26 +0000, Dolly Grey
wrote:


In the past, I have sailed the seas in a sailboat but now in my old age
want to trailer a boat to different Ports of Call. I also intend to keep
my powerboat at home after summer long weekends of boating.

I am seriously considering the purchase of a 26" 1983 Sea Ray Sundancer.
It is quite a distance from me and the price could be right for my
budget.

QUESTIONS:
1) I have a GMC Sierra that will haul 11,300 lbs. This means that I
would have no difficulty in hauling such a weight. BUT how would it be
towing such a boat on the highway?

2) Any known problem areas that I should be aware of?

Thank you to all who answer and for your time.

===

Your post raises a number of questions and issues. Let's start with
the boat. You don't say whether or not it has been used if fresh
water or salt water. If salt, the engine is almost certainly overdue
for replacement or major rebuild. If that has not been done it's
probably better to walk away because even if it's running OK now, it
won't be long before the cylinder heads rust out. With a boat that
old the electricals should be thoroughly checked and also the
hydraulics for engine tilt and trim tabs (if any).

Moving on to the trailer, do you have one already or does a trailer
come with the boat? If it comes with the boat be sure to have the
brakes and wheel bearings checked and/or serviced. The condition of
the bunks and/or rollers should also be checked.

Carefully check the brake lights and turn signals. Trailer wiring and
lights are frequent problem areas. Watch your speed first time on the
highway. If the trailer starts to sway or act unstable in any way,
you probably need to adjust the tongue weight by moving the boat fore
or aft. Normally you want tongue weight between 5 and 10 percent of
the total. Correct tire pressure for both the boat and truck are also
important.