Four winns 238 Vista Owner'S Manual Download

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Vista Owners Manual
10/93

Section P

Page 1

P - 1 GENERAL TRAILER INFORMATION

The trailer must properly “match” the boat’s weight and
hull design. Four Winns trailers are designed specifically
for each boat model. This will prevent any problems re-
lated to trailer capacity or improper support. Four Winns
trailers meet or exceed the National Marine Manufactur-
ers Association’s trailer requirements.

Four Winns Boats manufactures bunk type trailers. The
bunks are located specifically for Four Winns boats and
adequately support all parts of the boat. It is a “drive-on”
type trailer which means winching the boat from the wa-
ter is not necessary.

NOTICE

When winching the boat onto the trailer, be sure
the bunks are wet to prevent damage to the boat
or trailer. DO NOT attempt to winch the boat
forward when out of the water. Damage to the
winch stand/assembly or tongue could occur.

Four Winns offers both painted and galvanized trailers.
The painted trailer is intended to be used in fresh water
and the galvanized trailer in salt/brackish water.

A. Regulations

Federal law requires that the trailer and tire registration
information be compiled and recorded. The Four Winns
boat registration card includes trailer registration informa-
tion. A trailer tire warranty card provided with this manual,
is to be filled out and returned to the tire manufacturer.

Laws covering such items as trailer brakes, lights, safety
chains, etc., will vary from state to state. Please contact
the motor vehicle department in your state for additional
information.

B. Load Carrying Capacity

The certification label shows the maximum load-carrying
capacity and is located on the port forward side of the
trailer. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the
load-carrying capacity including the weight of the trailer.
DO NOT exceed the GVWR rating for the trailer.

TRAILER INFORMATION

If selecting a trailer from another manufacturer, check the
load-carrying capacity. A trailer with a load-carrying ca-
pacity that is too low will be unsafe on the highway and
could cause sudden failure of critical trailer components
or abnormal tire wear. A trailer with too high of a load-
carrying capacity that is sprung for heavy loads can dam-
age a lighter boat.

NOTICE

DO NOT overload your trailer by placing cam-
ping gear or other heavy equipment in the boat.
DO NOT exceed the GVWR rating. Damage to
the hitch, coupler, or trailer may occur.

Improper weight distribution can place excessive strain
on the towing vehicle and trailer. It can also cause the
trailer to “fishtail” (sway side to side). Be sure gear and
other items are distributed evenly in the boat.

C. Hitches

The load-carrying capacity of trailer hitches will vary be-
tween manufacturers and must equal or exceed the
GVWR. Four Winns trailers use surge brake systems
and require a fixed hitch. Refer to Section P-2d Surge
Brakes for more information.

NOTICE

Make sure towing vehicle and hitch are adequate
for towing your Four Winns trailer.

Before hitching the trailer to the vehicle, make sure the
proper size hitch ball is installed to match the coupler.
Please refer to the coupler or actuator on the trailer for
ball size. Four Winns trailers require 2 5/16" hitch ball.
Refer to Section P-3 Operation for additional information
on hitches. Also, consult your Four Winns dealer for his
recommendation before purchasing a trailer hitch for your
towing vehicle.

To help guard against a sudden failure while in
use, DO NOT use a worn hitch ball. Replace all
worn or damaged parts.