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Vessel Operation
Check the trailer harness often for signs of fraying. Check
the harness connector for corrosion. Make sure the trailer
harness when connected to the trailer has enough slack
for turning
Check the wheel bearings for wear periodically by a
professional. On most trailers, there is a zerk tting on
the wheel hub to add the proper lubricant to the wheel
bearing with a grease gun. These wheel bearing waterproof
covers for the bearings can be purchased at retail outlets.
Check the trailer lug nuts for the proper torque. Use a foot
pound wrench and torque in a star sequence to the correct
poundage as recommended by the trailer manufacturer.
Torque the lug nuts at half the poundage on all nuts. Then
set the torque wrench to the full poundage and fasten to
the last foot poundage gure.
Check the trailer tires often for voids, excessive wear or
out of round tire conditions. If the trailer seems to vibrate
you may have a bad tire or one that is unbalanced. These
wheels can be rebalanced at most automotive or tire shops.
Never pull a boat on a patched tire. Buy a spare tire and
wheel including a hub and wheel bearing assembly. Mount
it on the trailer for speedy installation should a blow out
occur. Be sure everything is secured in the boat and canvas
is down in the towing position with the bimini stored in
the boot. Tilt the stern drive up to clear the road and any
bumps that might occur while in transit.
DRIVING
Practice maneuvering the vehicle and trailer in a large,
empty parking lot or open space. If you practice slowly and
cautiously, you will soon develop a feel for maneuvering
the trailer .
Test your vehicle and trailer brakes before departure along
with the lights. Pack a tool kit with extra bulbs, fuses and
uids.
Drive as smoothly as possible, anticipating your stops and
giving yourself plenty of room for turning and stopping.
Avoid any quick turns or sudden jerks of the steering
wheel.
Remember to maintain safe speed limits. It takes longer to
stop your loaded boat. Allow enough room to the front
in bad weather.
Keep an eye on your rig through the rear view and side
mirrors. If your rear view mirror is obstructed, purchase
a set of side mirrors that extend out over the side of the
vehicle for increased visibility. In addition, it is a good idea
to install a set of round mirrors to the side mirrors as they
help identify blind spots.
Plan to stop periodically on your way to check the trailer
hitch for tightness, harness connector, tires and wheel
bearings. Also, check to make sure the load is balanced.
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