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PLEASE NOTE: Trailer laws covering such things as brakes, lights, safety
chains, licenses, etc., will vary from state to state. Be sure that your trailer is
in full compliance with your state laws. Your trailer dealer usually can help
you in this regard. If not, contact your nearest state motor vehicle
department office for full information.
Trailering Checklist
Before towing your boat on its trailer check to be sure:
• Coupler, hitch and hitch ball are of the same size.
• Coupler and safety chains are safely secured to hitch.
• Check all fasteners for proper tightness.
• Boat is securely tied down to trailer. (Winch line is not a tie down)
• Wheel lug nuts are properly tightened.
• Wheel bearings are properly adjusted and maintained.
• Load is within maximum load carrying capacity.
• Tires are properly inflated.
• All trailer lighting is working properly.
• Trailer brakes are properly adjusted and working.
• Mooring cover is off.
• Loose items are secured.
Extra Gear - If you are carrying baggage, extra gear or equipment in the
boat, is it secured to prevent movement or loss on the highway?
Engine - Outboard motors should be tied in place so they will not tilt or turn
due to road shock. Do not rely on the boat's steering system for this
purpose. Continuous road shocks may fatigue the boat steering system. Tilt
lower unit up if necessary for road clearance. The use of a motor support
bracket is highly recommended to reduce long term stress on the motor
mount.
Launching
Every trailer boater develops his own favorite launching technique. Until
you do, here are a few helpful tips:
1. Check the ramp first - Whether you’re launching from an unimproved or
a surfaced ramp, check it out before starting your launching procedure. How
steep is it? Is the surface firm enough to support the weight of trailer rig and
tow vehicle? Is it wide enough? How deep is the water at the end of the
ramp? Some surfaced ramps become very slippery when wet - do you have
wheel chocks to prevent your rig from sliding down the ramp?
2. Back trailer to the ramp - Have someone stand to one side of the ramp to
direct you. Backing up a trailer can be tricky. A good way to simplify the
procedure is to grasp the steering wheel with one hand at its lowest point
(at 6 o'clock). When you want the trailer to go right, move your hand on the
