Do you use a safety strap/chain on the front when trailering? what kind?

[tlatoani]

I am looking for something to use as a backup in case my winch fails. I generally don't use rear tie-downs unless going a long distance. Do people just use a short chain? There is a nice spot on the trailer to hook to.

[Waynes345]

I use a short length of chain with a locking carabiner on the trailer end and a snap hook on the boat end. If you use chain, you may want to put a sleeve on it so it won't mar your trailer finish. Very simple. Some may say that the boat ain't going anywhere and it's overkill, but I think it's cheap insurance. I always connect the chain and use the transom straps.

[sandm]

I use the winch strap and the boat buddy as the only thing to hold it on the trailer. I have only used rear straps when towing out of town.

[Razzman]

I use an extra transom strap i have as i have the auto retractors on the rear.

[moombadaze]

boat buddie when it worked-now its a chain
rear straps for leaving town-
because my lake is 3 minutes away-dont even leave the subdivision to hit the ramp.

[BensonWdby]

I thought safety chain was standard? Definitely use mine. And definitely use transom straps. I have a friend in the body repair business who sees boats that have jumped the trailer or slild into the tow vehicle. Not only for long distance ... Accidents happen anywhere...

[Razzman]

He's referring to and additional backup between the winch and the tow eye in case of winch failure.

[mmandley]

I don't use an extra hook on the nose right now. I travel fairly flat areas, no major hills or curves but when i make the trip to Utah later this summer i will put something extra on the nose.

As for the transom i use my straps all the time. I take them off right before the water, and install them as soon as we wipe the boat down when it comes out of the water. Never toe with out 3 tie down points.

[Razzman]

I use the Rod Saver automatic retractable units in the rear, never loose 'em! I always tow three point, even locally, it only takes one idiot and an accident and that boat can fly off the trailer or into the truck! For me an additional nose strap is a "just in case" thing.

Look at the pic and reaqd the story ... Boat comes off trailer in accident

[mmandley]

Ouch nice pic Razz.

Yea i am going to upgrade to the retractable ones like some of you guys have. Just waiting on winter. I can use the factory ones i got. From what i hear there an upgrade already, most don't come with straps or there really cheap ones. Mine are 3inch wide and have a level to lock them down in place. Then have these flaps that wrap around the buckle system and Velcro in place so no metal can touch the trailer or boat.

Not the best pic of my transom straps. Id get better but the boat isn't at home right now.