Will a galvanized boat trailer rust?

Galvanized materials were dipped into molten zinc; the zinc sacrificially corrodes to protect the steel. Corrosion of a galvanized material occurs in two stages: first the zinc corrodes, leaving white corrosion products often called “white rust”; then the steel corrodes, leaving the familiar reddish-brown “red rust”.

How thick is the steel on a boat trailer?

This is an 8 ft length of 3/16 inch Thick Galvanized steel that is 3 inches by 3 inches in outer diameter, with rounded corners. This thickness and material is an industry standard for 3 x 3 heavy duty trailer tongues. You would commonly see a 3″ x 3″ tongue on small boats, and boats up to 25 foot in length.

How thick should a trailer tongue be?

Steel tubing at least 1/8 of an inch of wall thickness will do the trick. The length can be pretty much whatever you want but the longer the tongue the lower the tongue weight capacity will be.

How long do galvanized boat trailers last?

So, my answer is 36 yrs. I would inspect the main frame and crossmembers and if there is any significant rust I would not keep it. If you get 15 years out of a galvanized trailer your lucky, or you have really done good maintainance.

What size steel should I use for a trailer?

Trailer Frame Steel Thickness Any trailer plans that you do follow should tell you exactly the width of trailer frame steel that you need to be using. In most cases, it is going to be 2″ x 4″ x 1/8″ rectangular steel.

Can I get a trailer galvanized?

The process involves immersing the steel in a bath of molten zinc (860°F) to produce a corrosion resistant metal. Galvanized metal is often used in the construction of warships, such as carriers and submarines. Best Trailer, Inc now offers galvanized metal trailers in all shapes and sizes.

Can you galvanize an old trailer?

Galvanizing a trailer is not that big a deal. A little bit of labor, you need to completely disassemble it, and a few hundred dollars. Most galvanizers will ask that it be sand blasted to remove the paint, others may remove using caustic soda. Call some galvanizers in your area.

How do you reinforce a trailer tongue?

Rod bracing is popular and relatively quick and easy to fit. Tapering from the coupling end of the tongue down to 2-3″ deep past the first cross member and back up to the tongue underside with vertical stems at regular intervals gives excellent strength through the triangular form.