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Catalina/Capri 25/250 Sailor's Forums

General Sailing Forum

Converting a cradle into a trailer

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Cbucki
Deckhand

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3 Posts

Initially Posted - 10/23/2007 : 08:51:15

Hi Everyone,

I am looking to convert a steel cradle (for an early 80's Catalina 25 fixed keel sailboat) into a safe & road worthy trailer.

I figure that the cradle is in good condition - so why can't I hire a welder to add an axle (or two) and a tongue.

Anyone tried this? any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

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Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 10/23/2007 : 09:44:25

I have a rather well built sturdy cradle for my fin keeled C25, but I don't think it could be safely converted to a trailer by simply welding on a couple of axles (you will need two) and a tongue.

Are you interested in actually trailering the C25 (ramp loading/retrieving...etc) or are you just looking to transport it from here to there?

If you are simply looking to transport, you may be able to mount your cradle on a suitable flat trailer/car hauler to move the boat from point A to point B.

Edited by - dlucier on 10/23/2007 09:45:11

Dave Bristle
Master Marine Consultant

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Djibouti
10005 Posts

Response Posted - 10/23/2007 : 09:53:49

With no proper suspension, the first bump you hit is going to break your boat or buckle the cradle.

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stampeder
Master Marine Consultant

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1608 Posts

Response Posted - 10/23/2007 : 13:32:52

I assisted in the launch of a Mirage 24 Fin Keel on a cradle converted to a trailer. The cradle/trailer is big and heavy but it got the job done. The owner calls it a 'yard trailer'. It is not road worthy, but is okay for launching and retrieving and moving the boat around the marina compound.

I think there is more engineering than meets the un-trained eye, in a C25 capable trailer.

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stampeder
Master Marine Consultant

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1608 Posts

Response Posted - 10/23/2007 : 15:49:03

Are you anywhere near this guy
SWAP MEET: Catalina 25 Swing Keel trailer reduced to $1250

If you want to convert something, this would be the better place to start. Looks like a very good deal.

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osmepneo
Past Commodore

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USA
1420 Posts

Response Posted - 10/24/2007 : 15:05:19

When I raced on an Ensign out Nyack Boat Club we hosted regional and nationals a couple of times. One of the participants brought his boat on it's cradle on a large flat bed trailer. The cradle was not permanently attached. Don't know how he sucured the cradle to the trailer. Could have been by tying down the boat and cradle to the trailer. For what it's worth.

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Notice: The advice given on this site is based upon individual or quoted experience, yours may differ.
The Officers, Staff and members of this site only provide information based upon the concept that anyone utilizing this information does so at their own risk and holds harmless all contributors to this site.