Trailer Mod For Dolly

[BG3]

There are a few examples of this here already. Just figured I'd offer my interpretation of a trailer/dolly combo. Maybe this will help someone, some day.

I'll start w/ pics of the trailer as I purchased it w/ the boat. I had already removed the rear bunk that was bolted to the back of the trailer when I thought to take pics.

 

[BG3]

Here's a few pics of the initial concept testing and fitting. I didn't have the tools to cut down a 4x4 (at least not w/ clean edges) for the center of the front channel. Luckily, a nice Lowe's Hardware lumber employee came up w/ the great idea of using a pallet strap block. It measured 40" L x 2.9" W x 2.5" H, close enough for gov't work! Plus it was free! It was rough but, a little work w/ the belt sander cleaned it up.

I found some cardboard w/ a factory edge and traced the wheel arches. Then used a roofing square to make sure the template was flush w/ the 2x4. I traced a 1" fender washer to shape the front end of the bunk so it's less likely to break off.

The bolt-on, retractable rachet straps were a nice find. much better than the old two-strap system for this. Very easy to use too. Press the red button, pull strap to desired length, hook, press the red button to retract slack, then secure w/ the rachet. (Erickson 34422 Pro Series 1" x 6' Bolt-On Retractable Ratcheting Tie-Down Strap, (Pack of 2)

 

[BG3]

Here's the final product. Had to move the trailer bow support rearward to meet the bow support of the dolly. Didn't seem to adversely affect tongue weight. I used a Trailer Axle Plate kit from eBay to secure the front channel. The kit contained:
(4) 2 1/16" wide X 5 1/4" long X 1/2" diameter hot dipped galvanized u-bolts
(2) 5 hole heavy duty plates hot dipped galvanized
(8) 1/2" lock washers hot dipped galvanized
(8) 1/2" nuts hot dipped galvanized
Total w/ shipping was $12.

Word of advice: cut the recesses in the base of the front channel for the u-bolts, before you screw everything together (or just un-do it). It'll make your life easier...

 

[BG3]

My remaining challenges:
- Find a roller that will better guide the center beam of the dolly. The first time I tested it, the beam of the dolly rolled off onto the trailer and bent as the weight of the boat came down on it.
- Re-wire the lights

Thanks to all those who previously posted info on this project.

 

[BG3]

Last pic.