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Chapter 6
Check the trailer harness o en 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. ese 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. en set the torque wrench to the
full poundage and fasten to the last foot poundage gure.
Check the trailer tires o en 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.
ese 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
la
rge, 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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