Never Mind the Quality, Feel the Width

[Lease]

Staring at the boat on the trailer the other day (no-one else does that; right?), I decided that I would measure the overall width. I had some work done last winter that included replacing the rusted out bolts of the guide posts, as well as the rollers at the top of the posts.

It measured 8'8". Over the years the posts must have splayed from the hits taken in carrying out their prime function. I'm going on a five-day event early next month and will take the opportunity to get a block and tackle on them and hope that they can be encouraged to crimp up a couple of inches over that time.

The roads authorities in some Oz states sometimes set up in a truck parking areas in holiday times and carry out random inspections on trailers, so it is not just a bored cop that one must worry about when carrying a defect, or um, 'dimension anomaly'.

Has anyone else taken a look at their measurement? Anything from past posts remembered that dealt with this issue, or fixes for it?

[Frank C]

Don't the goal posts angle slightly outward ... widest at their tops?
In other words ... what's the measurement at the base of the goal posts.

I cannot remember the precise method by which the goal posts are bolted to the trailer frame. If they have "upper and lower" bolts, you might simply add a couple of "lower" washers between the post and frame. Otherwise, perhaps a wedged shim might work?
I doubt a block/tackle will bend them over time .... ????

[Chip Hindes]

When new and unbent, the goal posts are just about exactly 8" at the top(widest) point. I (as with many others) have added PVC pipe extensions to mine which I measured at nearly 9'. Illegal I believe, in my own state (NY) as well as many others, but I'm pretty sure it'll be a warm day in New York in February before I ever get a hassle for such.

I've straightened mine with a come-along chained to a good sized tree. Leave it attached to the tow vehicle, otherwise you're likely to just pull the trailer sideways.

[Bill at BOATS 4 SAIL]

the goal posts are just about exactly 8" at the top(widest) point.

I (as with many others) have added PVC pipe extensions to mine which I measured at nearly 9'.

From 8" to 9'?

[albion]

the goal posts are just about exactly 8" at the top(widest) point.

I (as with many others) have added PVC pipe extensions to mine which I measured at nearly 9'.

From 8" to 9'?

8inches to 9 feet. Must be some of that Alaska pipe line he put on the guides.

[pokerrick1]

You guys are sooooooo picky

Rick