3-30
3 OPERATION
• Check wheel bearings and wheel
lug nuts before each trip.
• Check tail, brake, and turn signal
lights for proper operation.
• Secure the bow of the boat to the
trailer with the winch line and also
with the chain. Secure the stern
cleats to the trailer with tie-downs.
• Take down and store the bimini top,
if used. The top is not designed to
stay unsecured on the boat at high-
way speeds. See page 3-13.
• Carry a spare tire for the trailer,
along with sufficient tools to change
the tire.
• While traveling, check the wheel
hubs on the trailer whenever you
park. If the hub feels abnormally hot,
have the bearing inspected before
continuing your trip. On longer trips,
it is a good idea to carry a set of
spare wheel bearings, seals, and
races.
• When making a turn, do not cut cor-
ners. The trailer has a smaller turn-
ing circle so it turns more sharply
around the corner than the towing
vehicle.
• Before backing your trailer into the
water, disconnect the light plug from
the towing vehicle. This will reduce
the likelihood of the lights blowing
out when submerged.
BACKING YOUR TRAILER
It takes practice to back a trailer suc-
cessfully. If you are not familiar back-
ing up with a trailer, practice first in an
open area away from obstacles.
Keepthefollowingpointsinmind:
• Back slowly. Make steering adjust-
ments in small steps.
• Turn the towing vehicle’s wheels
opposite the direction you want the
trailer to go.
• After the trailer begins moving, turn
the towing vehicle to follow it.
• Have a second person stand by to
help direct you with hand signals.