outdrive drags on ground while towing

[mschwartz815]

1998 Reinell 180 with Volvo Cobra SX outdrive. Drive does NOT tilt up far enough!!! Nearly useless swim "platform" interferes with outdrive tilt angle.
Why would anyone build this ???? pictures to follow. I am NOT newbie to boating/trailering!!!

 

[Bkok33]

Could it be due to the angle of the boat when it's hooked up to your vehicle?

 

[mschwartz815]

NOPE..... I already use a drop hitch ... When it cools off tonight I will post pictures.

 

[Bkok33]

NOPE..... I already use a drop hitch ... When it cools off tonight I will post pictures.

Ok, is it an aftermarket swim platform?

 

[mschwartz815]

NOPE

 

[mschwartz815]

1998 Reinell 180 original VM trailer Originally Sold by Salinas Valley Marine. Outdrive drags on driveways etc I always tow it in a nose down attitude. Outdrive cannot tilt high enough due to swim platform (is actually part of the hull not an add on)

 

[bruceb58]

I would highly advise changing tires and/or springs to change ride height if you really drag the drive.

 

[oldjeep]

If it is dragging on driveway transitions then transition at an angle? Also, what Bruce said - lift kit for trailer.

 

[UtahBoating]

Very curious to see pictures of this. As others have said a lift kit may be the solution.

 

[mla2ofus]

Until we see pics maybe another consideration would be to roll the axle ie: move the axle from the top of the springs to under the springs. If the axles have camber of course you'll have to weld on more saddles.
Mike

 

[tonyjh63]

Hmm...this doesn't make any sense. I'm sure a manufacturer wouldn't design/sell the product(s) like this. I'd like to see some pics...

 

[UtahBoating]

Hmm...this doesn't make any sense. I'm sure a manufacturer wouldn't design/sell the product(s) like this. I'd like to see some pics...

This is my thoughts exactly, I cannot imagine a major manufacturer engineering something like this .

 

[spoilsofwar]

Here's a picture I found of a '99 Reinell 180's transom:

So, with that notched swim platform and an Alpha drive, there appears to be plenty of room to tilt up. The Cobra/SX drive is somewhat larger, so you might not get as much out of it, but I still can't see it being an issue when trailering. This is assuming that 1. The '98 180 the OP has has the same swim platform design, 2. The swim platform is factory, 3. The drive is original to the boat, and 4. That the trailer is of the proper design and ride height for the boat.

OP, we really need more info and especially a picture or two.

 

[TomCz]

Interesting. I'd love to see good pics. Didn't you notice this when you towed the first time? Does it hit frequently or just in one unique driveway? I ask because mine hit in a friends makeshift driveway, but was fine everywhere else. Is the outdrive actually coming close to the the swim platform? Anyway, My guesses are:

1) tilt mechanism needs to be adjusted
2) this is not the original trailer. Different trailer styles carry boats at different heights.