Securing CE Smith I-Beam Clamps for Boat Trailers That keep Falling Off

Updated 05/20/2016 | Published 05/16/2016

Products Featured in This Question

CE Smith I-Beam Clamps for Boat Trailers - Galvanized Steel - 2 Sets

(78)

$37.94

Loctite Threadlocker 262 - High Strength - Up to 3/4" Nuts/Bolts - 0.20-Fl-Oz Tube

(113)

$10.85

Question:

I have this style fastener on my new trailer. One side keeps falling off. It happens after I pull the empty trailer out of the water, up the launch. Each time i replace it, I tighten as much as possible, manually. Should I use an impact wrench to tighten the clamp, or do you have a suggestion? No problem with the other side. It is on an aluminum I-beam trailer.

asked by: Joe G

Expert Reply:

The CE Smith I-Beam Clamps for Boat Trailers, part # CE27682A are designed for trailer that have an I-Beam 2-1/2 to 4-1/2 inches wide. It seems odd that one side stays on and the other side keeps falling off on your trailer. I do not recommend using an impact wrench to tighten the clamps as that could cause damage to the clamps or the boat frame.

You might try using a spacer on the bolt in between the lower part of the clamps. I have attached a photo of the # CE27682A. Adding a spacer would force the lower part of the clamp apart and that would move the upper arms of the clamp to close a little.

Another item that may work for you is Threadlocker 262, part # LT37420. This is often used for the threads when folks install a trailer hitch and do not want the hardware to become loose.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L