This couldn't be more dangerous
In 2018 we witnessed a couple of near new (about a year old) trailers so close to collapsing they were a serious danger if they went any further on the road. The first one we struck, the customer was completely unsuspecting of the issue. He had carefully installed a fresh water flush line across the trailer to keep it as clean as possible after any salt water contact. The second trailer (pictured) was around the same age.
The jetski trailer is often overlooked when buying a jetski and at maintenance time. Remember most jetski's weigh about 400 kgs. It needs to be well supported and inspected regularly.
Most common issues we see are:
Trailer not set up correctly:
Different models will need a slightly different set up on each trailer. The motor should be sitting midway over the trailer axle so the weight is well balanced. This will make a huge difference to lifting the jetski off the tow vehicle.
Incorrect trailer sizing:
Not all trailers were made to fit multiple models. Your jetski must sit on the runners or rollers evenly, not to one side and not excessive overhang. It must also have enough clearance of any trailer cross members as these can damage the hull when travelling.
Tyre issues:
If your trailer is hard to move around, it might just need some air in the tyres! It is a regular occurrence for us to find less than 10 psi in the tyres. Tyres can also get flat spots if left sitting for a while in the same spot. Watch they haven't perished if they get too much sun exposure.
Safety:
What happens if you have to stop suddenly? Your jetski becomes a missile if not positioned correctly and tied down. This means a tie down across the back of the jetski and a safety chain at the front.
More tips for novice jetski buyers in our NZ Used Jetski Buyers Guide.