Going on a vacation and taking the boat, we really do not do a lot of long distance towing – can I get a reminder of the do’s and don’ts when traveling any amount of distance with your trailer and boat – just a check list so I am good to go!!
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Going on a vacation and taking the boat, we really do not do a lot of long distance towing – can I get a reminder of the do’s and don’ts when traveling any amount of distance with your trailer and boat – just a check list so I am good to go!!
Have a spare ready, be sure you have a lug wrench that fits the trailer bolts, have a jack that will work, throw in some wood blocks for leveling the jack and maybe even change a tire in your driveway so you know what you're doing without idiots zipping by you at 80 mph.
Do a precheck on your brakes, lights, chains/cables, tires, etc.
Have a spare! Can't say that enough!
Tape off the paddle wheel. I read somewhere this could cause premature failure of the speedometer.
Oh crap. Took my boat on the water for the first time this year, since bringing it from Kansas. That's why the speedo isn't working.:oops:
Gee thanks for solving my problem.....
Nice catch on the paddlewheel!
Don't tow with a factory cover on. It will flap against the gel coat & leave marks.
I've also ratchet tied the back of my platform to the bar across the stern, pulling the back of the platform up a bit. My platform has a tube running along the perimeter of it, which is the anchor point. It helps stem avoidable vibration on the platform mounts. Those torsion axles are really stiff. I doubt anyone else does this, but it's just a thought.
Or you could take the platform off if you have somewhere to stow it.
I tow a lot.. cover on.. :) Just make sure you put it on the right way to avoid any strap marks. I check the usual stuff along the way, tires and bearings after long distance, ie every few hours.
The best advice is to get trailer towing insurance, last year I found out the hard way those cheapo auto/basic insurance plans only cover $100! ($600+ total for my tow) Boat us has the best one but you need to get the upgraded package. They will call and arrange the tow, there's very few tow trucks that are allowed to tow boats. Boat us was very helpful except that I was on the free plan. Your regular auto insurance probably doesn't cover roadside.. :(
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Use straps on the back of your boat. Locally, I don't strap it, but for any trip do. Drive at the posted speed limit OR LESS.
Inspect your tires, inside and outside sidewalls, and the tread. Have a spare.
Consider using a shrink wrap type product on the nose/front of the boat to reduce road debris damage/dirt.
Make sure that your cushions are all secure, some have lost cushions at speed.
I loop an extra tie down strap through the mounts underneath the platform and cinch it down to the trailer. It takes all the slack out of the platform mount holes and pins so it doesn't rattle. I have a designated strap for this b/c I tow about 40 min. each way every time we go out.
Also: Make sure your lug wrench fits the trailer lugs. Take them off, grease them and put them back on before you go. Make sure you can actually get your spare off your trailer mount. Make sure you have a jack that works with the trailer. Check your trailer brakes too.
dont think its been mentioned yet--set the air presure as per the sidewall, dont forget the spare