How High should an Outboard be when trailering?

[TheChad]

Hey all,<br /><br />I was just curious if there is some a standard, or certain height an ourboard should be when trailering?<br /><br />My new Lowe FS175 when I picked it up from the dealer had the transom saver adjusted so that the bottom of the lower unit was only about 1" above the bottom of the trailer.<br /><br />The trailer is pretty low to the ground, and that scared me, so I adjusted it out so the outboard sits at more of an angle, and the bottom of the lower unit is further off the ground.<br /><br />I didn't know if there was some reason the dealer had it soo low, if there was some problem caused by having the engine raised up higher, or what, so I thought i'd ask..<br /><br />Thanks,<br /><br />-TheChad

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: How High should an Outboard be when trailering?

there is no standard, that might have been the length the transom saver was when it came out of the box. (not to say anyone would be lazy). it really depends on the terrain you will be using. curbs, dirt roads with deep ruts, hills to flat terrain. my driveway is fairly steep where it meets the street, i have ot keep my motors high to keep from draging. if the motor is too low, it is very easy to accidentally to damage a lower unit, when backing. i recommend having a spotter when backing into unknown areas.

 

[roscoe]

Re: How High should an Outboard be when trailering?

You done good Chad.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: How High should an Outboard be when trailering?

Chad, I like to set the outboard about 1/2 way up. It won't drag on the ground, and there is still enough weight to keep it from bouncing.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: How High should an Outboard be when trailering?

Consider the worse case scenario when trailering. In my view that would be leaving or entering a gas station, parking lot, or your driveway if its steep. As the tow vehicle clears the curb on entry, the tongue of the trailer raises considerably which lowers the back of the boat and hence affects how high the motor needs to be tilted to avoid dragging. Same thing holds true when leaving an area with a sharp drop. There is no harm in going too high -- there is harm in going too low.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: How High should an Outboard be when trailering?

there are a lot of motors out there with bent or broken Skegs. wonder why?