First time tower - just bought boat
03-11-2019, 05:13 PM
#31
Dont forget to put the drain plug in the back of the boat. Dont forget to remove the trailer straps before backing it in. Dont forget to put the cotter pin in the hitch lock every time you connect it to your truck.
03-11-2019, 07:03 PM
#32
Senior Member
All things that are very easy to forget if you're rushed!
03-11-2019, 08:55 PM
#33
I also have an 8'6" beam boat. Towing mirrors were a must for me when purchasing this truck - can you get away with the stock ones? Sure - but if you're going to be towing it with any frequency, get 'em.
03-11-2019, 09:20 PM
#34
Senior Member
Lotta good advice in this thread already.
To recap:
1) Standard mirrors will be fine to get it home. Re-evaluate when you get home based on your experience.
2) I second the advice about giving the selling dealer a call and asking them to help you get it setup in the parking lot.
The right size hitch ball (probably 2"), with the right drop (more important for dual-axle trailers vs. single axle). The correct wiring connector (like that 7-pin to 5-pin), and transom straps. They can even ensure that all the trailer lighting works before you leave the lot.
3) Take your time on the tow back, and having a spare trailer wheel and tire, and the right tools to change a trailer tire are key. The right sized lug wrench, appropriate jack, flares, etc.
4) Boating... lots of info available online about this, including forums for your boat manufacturer. West marine, BoatUS, etc.
5) Take your time and enjoy the boat! Boating should be fun, don't let some knucklehead get under your skin at the boat ramp or on the water.
6) If the boat doesn't already come with a "coast guard kit", it might be good to inquire about one at the dealership. Nice to know that you've got everything on board that is required.
Good luck and have fun! Post of pic of your rig all hooked up when you get time.
To recap:
1) Standard mirrors will be fine to get it home. Re-evaluate when you get home based on your experience.
2) I second the advice about giving the selling dealer a call and asking them to help you get it setup in the parking lot.
The right size hitch ball (probably 2"), with the right drop (more important for dual-axle trailers vs. single axle). The correct wiring connector (like that 7-pin to 5-pin), and transom straps. They can even ensure that all the trailer lighting works before you leave the lot.
3) Take your time on the tow back, and having a spare trailer wheel and tire, and the right tools to change a trailer tire are key. The right sized lug wrench, appropriate jack, flares, etc.
4) Boating... lots of info available online about this, including forums for your boat manufacturer. West marine, BoatUS, etc.
5) Take your time and enjoy the boat! Boating should be fun, don't let some knucklehead get under your skin at the boat ramp or on the water.
6) If the boat doesn't already come with a "coast guard kit", it might be good to inquire about one at the dealership. Nice to know that you've got everything on board that is required.
Good luck and have fun! Post of pic of your rig all hooked up when you get time.
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ADM1953 (04-09-2019)
03-12-2019, 01:42 PM
#36
Senior Member
Back up tip: place one hand at six o'clock on the steering wheel, turn steering wheel with said hand in either direction and the trailer will turn accordingly in that direction. Only make steering wheel adjustments when your physically rolling not standing still. Important: Make sure your rig is all set up and ready to go before you even think about getting on the ramp, I'm going into my third year of towing, it only gets easier.
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gdru (03-12-2019)
03-12-2019, 02:30 PM
#38
Back up tip: place one hand at six o'clock on the steering wheel, turn steering wheel with said hand in either direction and the trailer will turn accordingly in that direction. Only make steering wheel adjustments when your physically rolling not standing still. Important: Make sure your rig is all set up and ready to go before you even think about getting on the ramp, I'm going into my third year of towing, it only gets easier.
03-12-2019, 03:36 PM
#39
Watch videos on YouTube on how to launch and retrieve a boat and how to back a trailer. You will learn a lot by watching what to do and what not to do. Then, make a checklist for your specific set up. Work it over in your mind. Revise said checklist. Once you have it wired tight, review it with someone in your crew so someone other than you has eyes on it. Revise again. Prioritize the checklistl, ie first thing first, second thing second and so on and not simply a to do list. Preparation will go a long way until you gain experience and a checklist will prevent you from ramp fever and losing your mind when it’s your turn to launch or retrieve. Remember, you are going out to have fun, but don’t jack up your rig because you were unprepared. Now, go to a parking lot and practice backing into parking spots until you can do it without thinking. Enjoy.
