Boat Trailer Loading Guide
One of the more challenging aspects of owning a boat is trailering it in order to transport it to and from the nearest body of water, and that last part can prove particularly tricky. Loading your boat onto its trailer is something you definitely don’t want to do incorrectly, as improper loading can result in damage to your boat, your boat trailer and even your towing vehicle. As your Florida boat trailer dealer, we have the tips you need to load your boat trailer correctly.
1. Preparing Your Boat Trailer
Before you do anything else, it’s essential that you make sure your boat trailer is in good working order and ready to go. Inspect the tires and ensure they’re aired up correctly and in decent shape with plenty of tread, as bad tires are the most common cause of trailer issues on the road. Next, make sure that there’s no corrosion, grease your bearings, look over wiring connections and check your chains to ensure they’re functioning properly.
Need some professional attention for your boat trailer? Get in touch with the Glenn’s Trailer Sales service department so we can help address any issues you’re having.
2. Loading Your Boat
Hook up your boat trailer to your towing vehicle and check the hitch, then attach the towing chains in an X shape under the tongue of the trailer. When removing your boat from the water, you’ll need to back the trailer down the boat launch until it’s submerged in the water. This will let you guide the boat onto the trailer by driving it or pulling it with a guide. Be sure that you’re going slowly and using as little throttle as possible so you can gently float the boat onto the trailer. Then, secure the bow winch strap to the bow and draw it up slowly so that it’s resting on the trailer nice and straight.
3. Securing Your Boat to the Trailer
Finally, you’ll need to ensure that your boat is secure on your trailer and ready to be transported. Drive your trailered boat out of the way of the launch, then park and get out to remove the drain plug, attach tie-downs and make sure that there’s nothing loose on your boat that could fly off during transport. If you have a boat cover, lash it over your boat snugly and check all your tie-down straps once again before you depart.
We hope this guide helps you to successfully load your boat onto its trailer. Looking for a boat trailer? Visit our dealership location in Hobe Sound, FL, to check out our fine selection of new and used boat trailers and parts for sale. We can also assist you with financing options on your trailer purchase. Glenn's Trailer Sales proudly serves Jupiter and West Palm Beach, FL.