www.parkerboats.net
28
general boating information
TOWING OR BEING TOWED
In the event of a mishap or power loss you may need to tow a boat or have yours towed. Remember you should not tow a boat larger than
your own. Never tow a boat if you are not equipped with the proper lines. Nylon ropes are recommended. They have the strength and elasticity
needed to absorb the shock of towing and sudden jerks. Individuals should never hold a towline; always secure it to the boat.
Before towing a boat, make a bridle and tie it securely to the stern eyes on the transom with enough slack to clear the engines. Pad the line
wherever it comes into contact with the boat to prevent chang. Attach a tow line to the bridle so that it can slide from side to side to prevent
too much pressure on a single stern eye. The tow line should then be attached to the bow eye or to a bridle on the towed boat. The tow line
should be a minimum of twice the length of the towing boat, the longer the better. When passing the tow line to the other boat do not try to
run in too close. Send either a light line or attach the towline to a life preserver to be pulled in. Beware of each boat’s propeller.
The towed boat should always have someone at the wheel since the boat may swing o course. Start the tow o slowly. A steady pull at a
moderate speed should be used. It is important to keep the slack out of the propeller area. Watch the action of the towing boat. If excessive
slack develops in the towline and contact is obvious turn in either direction to avoid hitting the stern. As a precaution passengers on both boats
should stay clear of the tow line. Lines under stress could snap and y in either direction causing injury.
SHALLOW WATER
Most boats that become grounded can be oated o with motors tilted to reduce the draft at the transom. Do not attempt to power o if
the propellers are in mud or sand due to possible damage to your engine’s cooling system.
NEVER ATTACH A TOW LINE TO A CLEAT ON EITHER BOAT
To Next Page
Loading...