Tips for Trailering

More often than not, when we think of boating, we think of the boat. It makes sense: getting in a boat on the water is the whole reason all of us are boaters. We are not boaters for the times the boat is out of the water. But, in all honesty, the trailer is probably the second most essential piece of equipment a boater can have (at least for a small to mid-sized craft). If your trailer is out of order, so are your destination boating adventures. And, if your boat lives on its trailer, so are your boating adventures period. So in this post, we'll explore the basics you need to know about trailering a boat.






Taking Care of Your Trailer
The #1 most important thing to maintain on your trailer are the bearings. A bad bearing equals a busted trailer. Remember: your trailer hubs go in the water twice a boating trip, so they might need a little extra care. Pop off a cap with a screwdriver every once in awhile to check the bearings. If they are dry, add a little grease. If you notice your bearings getting hot any time your trailer is in motion, stop immediately. If you don't, a potential trailer fix will likely turn into a definite trailer replacement. When you hook the trailer up to your car, have a friend stand back there and watch your lights (make sure to test the brakes and the hazards). The longer your drive with the trailer, the more important this is. We also recommend investing in a spare wheel if your trailer doesn't come with one. Just like with the spare tire in your car, it will make any road trouble a lot more bearable.



Towing Capacity
Your car will be rated for a particular tow capacity, or a certain amount of weight it can stand to pull. Boating Magazine just updated their tow guide, if you need a refresher. Don't, don't, don't push the limits of your car's rating. Overworking your car will only result in expensive engine and/or transmission work. (Trust me on that one. Been there.) Also, make sure you're not comparing your boat's dry weight to your tow capacity. Dry weight refers to the boat's weight without gear and gas, and who trailers a boat without those things? Add a few hundred pounds to the dry weight to give yourself some cushion. Even then, don't push the upper limits of the tow capacity of your vehicle.



Do you have a favorite brand of trailer? How about a maintenance schedule where you check on bearings, lights, etc?