Almost anyone that owns a boat of any kind has to trailer their boat at one
time or another. Many of us trailer our boats all the time. Here are some tips
that might help you out:
1) Preparing the Boat.
Be sure the boat is loaded so there is adequate tongue weight. If the
tongue weight is too light the trailer may tend to fishtail. Too much tongue
weight will be unduly hard on the towing vehicle.
Tie the boat down securely...you don't want to drop your precious boat on
the highway. We recommend the ratchet-type tie downs that can be purchased
at most stores.
Be sure there is nothing that can drag. Sailboats have halyards, sheets
and stays that can somehow untie themselves and drag on the highway. After
such an event, they will have to be replaced at great expense.
Tops, covers and sails should be lowered and tied securely. If not, the
wind will destroy them.
2) Tires and Wheels
Tire pressure is a biggie in trailing boats. Most trailer tires are
small and require higher pressure than most tires. Tires should be inflated
to the maximum psi recommended on the tire. The more inflated the tire, the
cooler it will run. Tires that are under-inflated bulge at the sides and
this area will be constantly flexing...thus, heating up the tire. That will
shorten the life of the tire and cause a possible sidewall blowout.
Wheel lugs should be check periodically to ascertain they are tight
Axles should be lubed regularly. Buddy Bearings are handy as they give
you a visual look at how well greased the axle is.
Be sure you always have a fully inflated spare tire...along with tools and
jack.
And most of all...Drive Safely!
This helpful boating pointer is provided by Catamaran Sailors
Magazine, http://www.catsailor.com/.These
tips are useful to boaters of all types.
ABA assumes no responsibility or liability for events that occur due
to actions you or others on your behalf take based on the information given.
You are proceeding at your own risk.
