![]() ![]() Check that the trailer lights are functioning, and all tires are in good shape. How to Load a Boat on a Trailer Run Through the Checklist (Again)īefore hitting the road, double-check that the trailer hitch is secure and that the boat tie-downs are tight and secure. Give your crew instructions on how to help before backing down, then load your boat. Either drop off your driver at the dock, or tie up while the vehicle is prepared and back down the ramp. Good etiquette is always appreciated and if you “glow with the flow” it helps everyone launch and load efficiently. Ready to load up for the trip home? Approach the launch ramp area and observe the flow of traffic to the ramp. Launch the boat and park your vehicle and trailer in a designated spot. Prepare the boat, your gear, and your crew. Get a good look at the launch ramp area and come up with a plan for backing down and launching. ![]() You’re at the launch ramp and ready to go boating. Make certain all the gear you’ll need for a day on the water is loaded and ready to go.Make sure there’s no loose gear in the boat that could blow out at highway speeds.Have your trailer brakes inspected before the towing season or annually, and keep the wheel bearings properly lubricated.Make sure the boat is secured at both the bow eye and with tie-downs at the transom.Check the trailer lights before taking off, and take time to check them occasionally during the trip.Low air pressure is a leading cause of trailer tire blow-outs, especially early in the season when the trailer may have been parked for a long time. Check the air pressure in the trailer tires before every trip.Study the owner’s manual for towing instructions, such as over-riding the transmission overdrive. Have the brakes inspected before boat-towing season begins. Check the tire pressure and condition of the tires. Also make sure your trailer hitch is rated for the weight of the boat and trailer. A professional scale like those at a truck stop will determine the exact weight of your boat and trailer. Check the vehicle owner’s manual to determine the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) capacity, which is the weight limit for the combined vehicle, loaded trailer and people and gear in the vehicle. Of course, the first step is to know that your vehicle has the proper towing capacity for your boat and trailer. Park and uncouple the boat trailer from your tow vehicle.Run through the checklist again, before towing home.Get your boat back onto the trailer when you’re ready to return home.Get your boat off the trailer and launch it when you arrive at your destination.Run through a pre-trip trailering checklist to make sure the boat, trailer, and vehicle are ready to hit the road.Couple the boat trailer to your tow vehicle.Towing a boat is not difficult, but safety should always be a number-one concern.įollow these basics for how to tow a boat: Towing a boat makes it possible to explore more waterways and get the most out of your boating experience. ![]()
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