first time launch

[thedodger]

hi al im a newbe at58 so before u all start to hide let me ask how u launch, and retreave ur boat off a tilt trailer. can it be done by one person ,do u use the tilt, and should i put out a notice at the ranp giveing 24hr notice that im coming all help much welcomed

 

[wayne h]

Re: first time launch

i would go on a day that might be rainy or when people are working.this way you wont get any 1 mad at the ramp. you can practice and see what works better for you.2 people make it way easyer because you can park the car while some 1 holds the boat.but you can do it alone also.also if you have time go on a weekend just to watch the busy ramp and see how people do it.there are many ways to do it and i am a newbie also.people are not that bad at the boat ramp as long as you are ready to go. i usually run my engine before i leave so i know it will start when i get there

 

[mikecjn]

Re: first time launch

Everyone with a trailered boat has been in your shoes at one time. We all had to give it a shot and pray like hell for the best. It always seems like the harder time you are having the more people there are around to watch you. But from what i have always seen, if someone is having trouble, people will help you out. Don't let anyone rush you...thats when mistakes are made and drain plugs are forgotton.

 

[neumanns]

Re: first time launch

Diffrent boats and trailers and ramps require diffrent techniques.<br /><br />I launch alone regularily (+2 children). I back down launch tie off park truck grab kids and go. reverse process on recovery.<br /><br />As far as the notice Just ask and I would be more than glad to help thats the only notice required!<br /><br />If you have more specific ?'s just give details.

 

[L Christopher]

Re: first time launch

I usually end up launching and recovering by myself. I like the I time. But having said that, I am ready when I get to the ramp. It is anoying to have someone pull to the ramp and them unload the car into the boat, undo straps in back, oh yea get in boat turn on blowers. And every now and them you see some guy like me that gets to the bottom of the ramp and releases strap and them cannot release saftey chain. I had to pull up release saftery chain and launch again. I am sure I made some friends that day.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: first time launch

My boat & trailer works really good when two persons handle it. No sweat at all.<br /><br />Now and then I do it by myself and I have one rule (saved me a couple of times): I take my time, do my stuff and ignore the folks watching.<br /><br />I may tek a little extra time but way less than if I got stressed and screwed the whole manouvre <br /><br />Oh - and yes, training when others are working (or sleeping) is good for your routine.

 

[Jack Shellac]

Re: first time launch

Unless you're already experienced at backing the trailer, it's a good idea to go to a vacant parking lot and practice until you know where it's going to go when you turn the steering wheel. This may keep you from having to keep pulling back up the ramp to straighten the boat out.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: first time launch

Right - and if you're new to trailer reversing try holding the steering wheel at the bottom, near the seat.<br /><br />This helps the 'opposite-ness'.