Inflatable watercraft cannot be operated without a reliable way of transporting to the water. PVC boat-beds It's becoming a critical element that determines the safety of your property at high speeds, and if you don't fit it properly or mounted it can turn your ride into a nightmare that can cause punctures and leaks.
Modern trailers are often equipped with universal solutions, but for delicate materials PVC and Hypalon They don't always work, and owners need to understand the difference between rigid roller systems and soft carpets to make an informed choice.
In this article, we will discuss the design of support systems, consider the nuances of self-manufacture and give professional recommendations for installation.
Design features and purpose of lodgings
The main task of any support system is to evenly distribute the weight of the body over the entire area of contact. Lodges In this context, they are longitudinal or transom beams covered with a soft material, and their geometry should ideally repeat the contours of the bottom, providing maximum support area.
The use of standard uncoated metal pipes is strictly prohibited, and even the slightest vibration on the track will cause abrasive dust between the cylinder and the metal to erase the protective layer in a matter of kilometers, so a quality coating of felt, carpet material or specialized polymer is mandatory.
⚠️ Attention: Never use sharp metal brackets or chains without rubber pads to fix inflatable boats. Point pressure during braking can cause the cylinder to rupture instantly.
There are two main types of structures: keel and flat. The former repeat the V-shaped bottom, providing better stability during the course, but more difficult to manufacture. The latter are a flat platform, which makes it easier to install, but requires more careful mooring of the vessel to avoid shifting the center of gravity.
To reduce friction when descent and lifting the boat, use silicone lubricant or soap solution on the surface of the paddings, especially in hot weather when the cylinder material becomes stickier.
Materials for the manufacture of the support system
The choice of materials is the foundation of the longevity of the entire structure, and the frame is most often made from a square-sectional profile tube, because it has a high torsional rigidity, but other parameters are critical to contact the boat.
The following materials have proven to be soft coatings:
- 🧶 Felt technical - classic version, perfectly absorbs moisture and protects against scratches, but requires regular drying to avoid rotting.
- 🏗️ Car carpet A more affordable analogue, resistant to ultraviolet light, but less durable in constant contact with salt water.
- 🛡️ Linoleum or transporter tape - used as an additional waterproofing layer over the pile materials to facilitate slipping.
It is important to bear in mind that metal-frame It should be corrosion-proof. Even if you use stainless steel, welds are a vulnerability, and the best solution is hot galvanizing or high-quality powder painting after welding.
⚠️ Attention: When using felt, be sure to consider the possibility of its rapid replacement. Wet pile is the ideal environment for the development of mold, which can damage the fabric of the boat during prolonged storage.
For fastening elements should be used bolts and nuts of stainless steel brand A2 or A4The normal ferrous metal will rust after the first season, and the rusty streams will spoil the appearance of not only the trailer, but also the boat itself.
Comparison of support types: specifications table
To make a choice, you need to compare different options on key parameters. Below is a comparative table that will help you assess the pros and cons of different approaches to organizing a bed for your boat.
| Type of support | Cylinder protection | Difficulty of installation | Cost | Recommended type of boat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat flooring (plywood) | High. | Low. | Low. | Small boats up to 3.2m |
| Longitudinal beams (Kilson) | Medium | Medium | Medium | Boats with inflatable keel (BND) |
| Cross sleepers | High. | High. | High. | Heavy boats with hard bottoms |
| Roller system | Low (requires further development) | High. | High. | Not recommended for PVC without modifications |
As you can see from the table, for most owners. PVC boats The best option is to combine longitudinal beams with a soft coating, which provides a balance between cost, ease of manufacture and level of safety.
Roller systems, popular among owners of fiberglass boats, require serious improvement, rollers should be exclusively of soft plastic or rubber, and their density should exclude sagging cylinders between the reference points.
Step-by-step instructions for installing pawns
The installation process begins with the dismantling of old equipment, if any, and the thorough cleaning of the trailer frame. The surface must be defatted to ensure the adhesion of the fasteners or welds.
The main stage of the work follows:
- Make measurements of the dimensions of the boat in an inflated state, determining the points of maximum deflection of the hull.
- Cut the profile pipe according to the drawing, observing the symmetry of the left and right sides.
- Weld or fasten the brackets to the trailer frame, pre-setting their level on a laser level.
- Tighten and fasten the selected covering material using stainless brackets or clamps.
☑️ Checklist before first descent
Pay special attention to the height of the installation. Lodges shall be so mounted that when the trailer is fully loaded (boat + motor + equipment), the frame does not touch the ground on irregularities, but the centre of gravity remains as low as possible.
Once the assembly is complete, a static test is recommended: Place the boat on the trailer, distribute the load evenly, and rock the structure. The absence of creaks and visible deformations indicates that the work performed is correct.
The Secret to Perfect Slip
Many experienced boaters use a thin layer of car wax or Teflon lubricant on the surface of the pads, which not only makes it easier to load, but also creates a water-repellent layer, preventing the wet coating from getting wet.
Protecting the boat from damage during transportation
Even perfectly mounted supports will not save the boat if you ignore the rules of fixation. The main enemy of an inflatable boat on the highway is vibration and oncoming air flow, which can raise the nose or stern, causing friction.
For reliable fixation, use only specialized belts with a ratchet mechanism. Rope knots have the property of weakening in motion, which is unacceptable. The belts must pass through special eyelets on the boat or cover the sides in the widest places without squeezing the valves.
It is also important to control the pressure in the cylinders before the trip: in the sun, the air expands, and the pumped boat becomes excessively rigid, which increases the risk of damage to the fasteners.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to attach belts directly to inflatable tubes without the use of protective covers or wide linings. The narrow belt under load works like a knife, cutting PVC tissue.
Don't forget. wind-trap Or at least a boat case in long distances, and the dust, insects and small pebbles that come from under the wheels of oncoming cars can make the surface of the cylinders matte and rough in one trip.
Maintenance and care of the pawns system
Regular maintenance will extend the life of both the trailer and the boat, and after each release to salt water, the structure must be thoroughly washed with fresh water, and the salt left in the coating pile is hygroscopic and will accelerate the corrosion of metal parts.
Periodically check the condition of the soft coating. The appearance of scurvy to the metal is a signal to immediately replace the site. Operating damaged pawns is tantamount to the deliberate destruction of expensive property.
Lubrication of movable elements such as the winch and the tilt mechanism was breathed (if any) must be made according to the manufacturer's regulations. Rust on the winch cable can damage the boat's transom when lifting.
Timely replacement of worn-out coating of lodgings is ten times cheaper than repair or replacement of a PVC boat cylinder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use wooden bars instead of metal profiles?
Wood is a temporary solution, but not recommended for permanent use, it absorbs moisture, swells, rots and loses strength over time, and it is heavier than aluminum and requires high-quality waterproofing, otherwise it will become a source of constant dampness under the boat.
How often should I change the coating on the beds?
The frequency of replacement depends on the intensity of use and storage conditions. On average, felt coatings serve 2-3 seasons of active use. If you notice that the material has become stiff, lost pile or began to smell unpleasant, it should be replaced immediately.
Do I need to take the boat off the trailer for the winter?
Yes, long-term load storage deforms cylinders and creates stress points in the fabric. In the winter, the boat should be washed, dried, slightly lowered and stored in a warm dry room, removed from the beds. The trailer is also better stored in the garage or under the canopy.
What is the load capacity of a trailer for a boat 3.5 meters?
For a boat with a length of 3.5 meters with an engine and equipment, the total weight will be about 400-500 kg. It is recommended to choose a trailer with a payload reserve, that is, designed for a minimum of 600-700 kg. This will ensure stability and reduce the wear of the suspension.