Recommended Boat Trailer Keel Roller

Updated 10/12/2015 | Published 10/10/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Yates Keel Roller for Boat Trailers - TPR - 12" Long - 5/8" Shaft

(294)

$33.32

CE Smith Panel Bracket for 12" Boat Trailer Rollers - Galvanized Steel

(133)

$34.79

Roller Shaft with Cap Nuts for Boat Trailer Rollers - Zinc-Plated Steel - 13" x 5/8"

(868)

$18.32

CE Smith Adjustable Mounting Brackets for Keel Rollers - Galvanized Steel - 11-1/2" L - 1 Pair

(57)

$24.28

Question:

I have a roller trailer and was launching the boat yesterday when I thought I might have heard the keel rub against a crossmember. No obvious damage or marks on the trailer. The boat itself is in a slip for a few more weeks. As a precaution I was considering adding keel rollers or pads. What are your thoughts and things to be careful about when installing.

asked by: Paul H

Expert Reply:

You'll want to ensure the height of the new roller is consistent with that of the other support components, such as the roller bunks. This will ensure no one part of the trailer bears more weight than the others. Next time you load the boat you can measure the space at your preferred mounting location and then use the adjustable bracket # CE32004G referenced above to locate the new roller in the correct position.

We offer keel rollers in both black rubber and non-marking thermoplastic that can be seen on the linked page. These are offered in lengths ranging from 5-inches to 18-inches. For instance, Yates # YR1200Y is a 12-inch roller with 5/8-inch diameter hole. With this you can use either a panel bracket # CE10305G or Adjustable bracket # CE32004G along with Roller Shaft # CE10727A which includes the two required end caps.