Your privacy

By continuing to use our site, you acknowledge that you accept our Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions. To learn more about the cookies we use, and how to manage them click here. Feel free to our policies anytime for more information.

8 Boat Trailer Safety Tips

Trailering can be difficult, even for a seasoned veteran. We want to make sure you arrive to the lake safely and without hassle. Here are a few tips our service specialists recommend to ensure you safe travels on the roadways with your boat trailer.

 

How To Keep Your Boat Trailer Safe

1. Check the coupler.

It is recommended that you inspect your coupler regularly for damage to ensure that it will latch correctly onto your vehicle’s trailer hitch. A simple dent on the coupler can cause big issues, therefore it is recommended that if an accident ever occurs and the coupler becomes damaged, to have it replaced as soon as possible.

 

2. Inspect the tie downs and winch strap.

It is also recommended that you inspect your winch strap and tie downs for any rips or damages. It is a crucial for your boat safety and the safety of others that you ensure that the tools used to keep your boat tied to your trailer are always in good condition.

 

3. Just check it all!

On top of all that, always check your trailer lights for proper operation, check that trailer safety chains are crossed, and tires are at the correct pressure before leaving to avoid any frustration while driving or accidents on the road.

 

4. Make sure nothing can fly out.

Before hitting the streets, make sure to pack down your boat for traveling and secure any loose items. There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination and realizing that all your stuff flew out of your boat.

 

5. Check your mirrors.

While trailering, make sure to adjust your mirrors accordingly so you can see your vehicle and your trailer, especially when turning to ensure you are not turning into the corner too tight.

 

6. Unplug your lights and remove the tie downs.

Before launching your boat into the water, we recommend unplugging your trailer lights to prevent a blown bulb then removing your rear tie downs all while leaving your winch strap and safety chain engaged. Once the rear half of your trailer is submerged, disengage your winch strap and safety chain and finally back your boat off of the trailer.

 

7. Don’t lose your boat!

Make sure you have a mooring line tied to your boat before launching so you don’t see it drift down the lake without you, your gear or any remaining passengers.

 

8. Maintain it properly.

Just like your boat, your trailer also has a maintenance schedule that should be followed to ensure safe and effective operation. Your wheel nuts should be torqued to the trailer manufacturer’s specification after the first 100 miles of use and every 300 miles following.

Your bearing system is also an important component of your trailer, we recommend greasing them every year or more depending on the amount of traveling you will be doing. Always regularly inspect your bearing system for adequate lubrication.

 

 

By: Chelsi Lauriault, Your Customer Care Specialist

Calculator Icon Vectors by Vecteezy