Are you tired of lugging your heavy boat around by hand or relying on a trailer to move it? Say hello to the boat dolly! This nifty device is a game-changer for boaters of all kinds, allowing you to easily move your boat from one place to another. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of boat dollies, exploring their benefits, how to make your own inflatable boat dolly, and whether a trailer dolly is really worth the investment. So, let’s get into it!
Overview of Boat Dolly
If you’re a boat owner, you know the struggle of moving your boat from one place to another. Whether you’re transporting it to the marina or just trying to move it out of the way for storage, it can be a real pain. This is where boat dollies come in handy. They’re like little carts for your boat that make it easy to move around.
What is a Boat Dolly
A boat dolly is a small cart or platform with wheels that is designed to hold and move small boats. They’re typically made from steel or aluminum, with rubber or plastic wheels that can handle the weight of a boat. Some boat dollies come with adjustable features, such as different strap lengths and positions, to ensure a secure hold on your vessel.
Benefits of a Boat Dolly
Boat dollies offer several benefits. First and foremost, they make it easier to move your boat around, especially if you need to move it a long distance. They also reduce the risk of damaging your boat or trailer during transportation, as well as preventing the risk of back injury from lifting and carrying heavy items. Additionally, boat dollies take up less space and are generally more affordable than larger transportation tools like trailers.
Types of Boat Dollies
There are several types of boat dollies available to choose from. The most common options include:
1. Hand-Operated Dollies
Hand-operated dollies are the most affordable and straightforward dolly option available. They’re designed for manual labor and are most efficient with lightweight boats.
2. Motorized Dollies
Motorized dollies are the opposite of hand-operated dollies. They’re more expensive and require no physical exertion beyond operating the machine. These dollies are more efficient for heavier boats.
3. Adjustable Dollies
Adjustable dollies are designed to accommodate different boat styles and sizes. The adjustable features of the dolly include adjustable strap lengths or positions.
Boat dollies provide a convenient and affordable solution for people who need to move their boats or trailers frequently. They’re also perfect for those who don’t have a lot of space to store their vessel and trailer. Don’t hesitate to invest in a boat dolly if you’re looking to save time and effort.
Inflatable Boat Dolly DIY
If you’re anything like me, DIY projects are your jam! As much as I love to buy the latest and greatest things, there’s something about using my own two hands to create something that fills me with a sense of pride and accomplishment.
That’s why I was thrilled when I stumbled upon the concept of an inflatable boat dolly DIY project. Not only is it a cost-effective way to get the job done, but it’s also a fun project to take on!
What You’ll Need
To create your inflatable boat dolly, you’ll need a few key materials:
- Inflatable pool toy
- Ratchet tie-down straps
- PVC piping
- A hand-held air pump
- A saw
- Drill
- Screws
- Wheels
Getting Started
To begin, you’ll want to select the perfect inflatable pool toy for your project. While any sturdy and durable pool toy will work, I recommend choosing one that’s on the larger side, as it will need to support the weight of your boat.
Once you’ve acquired your pool toy, it’s time to cut it in half. Use a saw to make a straight cut down the center of the pool toy, creating two equal halves.
Next, use a drill to make holes on either side of each half of the pool toy. These holes should be big enough to fit a piece of PVC piping through.
Putting it all Together
Now that you’ve created the foundation of your inflatable boat dolly, it’s time to add the finishing touches.
Using the ratchet tie-down straps, attach the PVC piping to the pool toy halves, creating a sturdy frame. Then, attach the wheels to the frame using screws and a drill.
Finally, use a hand-held air pump to inflate the pool toy halves until they’re firm to the touch. Once they’re inflated, your inflatable boat dolly is ready for action!
Creating your own inflatable boat dolly is a fun and exciting DIY project that can save you a ton of money! By using a few simple materials and following these easy steps, you’ll have a boat dolly that’s ready to use in no time. So what are you waiting for? Grab your materials and get to work!
Is a Trailer Dolly Worth It
If you’re a boat owner, you know how challenging it can be to move your boat around without a trailer dolly. A trailer dolly is a small, yet mighty tool that takes the hassle out of transporting your boat from the trailer and into the water.
The Benefits of a Trailer Dolly
A trailer dolly is compact and can easily maneuver the trailer into position. With a trailer dolly, you can push or pull the trailer in the direction you need it to go, effectively eliminating any physical strain on your back.
With a trailer dolly, parking your boat is a breeze, especially if you don’t have a lot of space. You can quickly move the trailer in any direction, making it easy to park your boat in tight spots.
Is a Trailer Dolly Worth the Investment
While some people might argue that a trailer dolly is an unnecessary expense, we believe that it’s a wise investment for boat owners. Not only does it make the boating experience more enjoyable and hassle-free, but it also saves you time and energy.
Without a trailer dolly, you risk damaging your boat or trailer. A trailer dolly allows you to control the position of your boat, preventing any accidental damages.
In addition, you can easily store your boat and trailer in your garage or shed without the need for a dedicated parking spot. This can save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to rent a parking spot or store your boat at the marina.
In conclusion, a trailer dolly is a must-have tool for any boat owner. It’s a relatively small investment that provides significant benefits. With a trailer dolly, you can move your boat around with ease, ensuring that your boating experience is safe, efficient, and enjoyable.
