when i launch on a step ramp my trailer flex is so bad that today i broke the winch cable to the bow. What do other guys do when loading and unloading a step ramp with aluminum trailers? Do you not winch the front of the boat down as much and just let the trailer flex?

Is your boat a step bottom boat? If so, depending on your trailer configuration--it's not as though you have to worry about it falling off. As such, you could loosen it before you back down the ramp. Probably not remove it, but put 6-12" of slack in it.

A lot depends on how your bow/winch stand is connected to the bow eye. A picture would help to determine the underlying issue. If you winch cable/strap goes right under a bow roller, and there really is no opportunity for play or stretch; yes--I could see why you broke yours.

As example; This would cause undo stress and breakage quite easily when the trailer flexes:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]501431[/ATTACH]

Whereas this allows the boat to teeder with no stress to the winch/strap/cable:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]501432[/ATTACH]

Although they both serve the same purpose; the second one is a much better design.

I always loosen up the bow cable when I get to the ramp. Along with installing the hull plugs.

Wannabe

its like the top pic, i agree i wish it was like the bottom....ok ill try that next time and loosen it up some

Buy and retrofit your trailer with this adjustable winch and bow stand here:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]501436[/ATTACH]

Call them; they will sell it to you and ship.
http://www.loadmastertrailerco.com/

I have been losening mine up the before i back it down. It was pulling like a you know what. Im afraid its going to pull the eye hook out. I believe in my case it is a sub par trailer. P.O.S. Insigator. Maybe in the future a good trailer.