Balex ABL2500 - Causes and Solutions for Loss of Traction

2016-09-28 QF-T10 - BML - Loss of traction - 2016-09-28.docx 1
Loss of Traction
The ABL2500 is designed for fibreglass & alloy boats up to 2,500 kg (5,500 Lbs), up to 7.2m (24’-0”) length, and
to operate on boat ramps up to 9° degrees (1:6.3 gradient or 16 % slope).
If the ABL2500 has been installed or used on boats exceeding any of these parameters, then this could result in
loss of traction from time to time.
The 2 key factors contributing to the loss of traction are:
1. Boat ramp angles exceeding 9 degree’s
2. Hull lengths longer than 7.2m (24’-0”)
The primary issue caused by longer length hulls on steeper boat ramps is that as the boat is retrieved onto the
trailer the transom hull remains floating above the ABL and loss of traction occurs.
If your ABL experiences loss of traction during retrieval, then the boat bow will stop short of the vee-block on
the winch post and a full retrieve will not be possible. Typically the boat bow will stop short by 1m (3’-0”).
Solution
Where loss of traction has occurred 2 solutions are available:
1. ABL assisted manual retrieve - Attach the winch hook to the bow, apply the ratchet, manually winch
the boat while simultaneously pressing the ABL remote control and the boat will be retrieved with little
to no effort. Apply the safety chain before driving up the ramp.
2. Relocate vehicle on boat ramp - Attach the winch hook to the bow, apply the ratchet, drive the vehicle
forward 1 meter slowly, complete the retrieve using the ABL remote control. Manually wind in excess
bow rope. Attach the safety chain before driving up the ramp.
For all Boats exceeding 2,500 kg (5,500 Lbs) and/or greater than 7.2m (24’-0”) length we recommend that these
Boats adopt our New ABL3500 Model. The ABL3500 will incorporate an optimised mechanical, hydraulic &
electrical system specifically for larger boats. We intend to have this new model released to market by Q2 2017
once all validation & testing has been completed.
For any further questions please contact your authorised Reseller or Balex Marine directly.