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9.8 TRAILERING YOUR BOAT
IF YOU HAVE ANY DOUBTS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR TOW
VEHICLE OR PROPER TOWING PROCEDURES, CONTACT YOUR
DEALER.
BEFORE TOWING YOUR BOAT ON THE HIGHWAY, CHECK THAT
YOUR TOW VEHICLE AND TRAILER MEET LOCAL REGULATIONS.
BEFORE LEAVING THE DRIVEWAY, MAKE SURE THAT THE
LIGHTS ON THE TRAILER ARE OPERATING PROPERLY. IF
NECESSARY, USE A SECOND PERSON TO CHECK THEIR
OPERATION.
AT LEAST ONCE PER SEASON, CHECK AND REPAIR/REPLACE
THE TRAILER WHEEL BEARINGS.
Before Trailering the Boat
The trailer should be adequately sized for your boat. Allow about 10% above the
maximum boat weight for trailer capacity.
Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped to handle the load. This includes
engine, hitch, frame, brakes, transmission, cooling system, and vehicle capacity.
Securely attach the boat trailer to the vehicle hitch. Hook the safety chains and
cross them under the hitch, and check the lights to ensure that they are hooked
up and working.
Trailering Tips
If you have never towed a large trailer before, it is important to practice in a large and
open area. If possible, use a trailer without a boat to practice with. With this setup, you
can see the trailer’s movement without the obstruction of the boat.
It is crucial to be aware of the position of the trailer at all times. Making wide turns, slowly
accelerating and decelerating, and making controlled movements will allow for the
greatest control of the trailer.
Reversing the Trailer
Backing and maneuvering the trailer is difficult. If possible, use a spotter to help
communicate trailer positioning. When backing the trailer, use the rear of the vehicle to
push and maneuver the trailer. You will need to turn the vehicle in the opposite direction
that you want the trailer to move. Once the trailer is positioned at the correct angle,
center your vehicle and push the trailer, making small corrections on the way. If you are
unable to maneuver the trailer backwards, move your vehicle/trailer forward and retry
backing the trailer from center.
REMEMBER TO CHECK THAT THE TOW BALL IS THE SAME SIZE
AS THE TRAILER COUPLER. NEVER USE A DIFFERENT SIZE!
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