18
IMMEDIATELY BEFORE AND AFTER LAUNCHING
Before releasing the boat from the trailer and/or the dock
inspect the boat for all sources of possible leaks from stem
to stern (including the bilge area). Verify that all engine and
steering control cables and linkage are lubricated and have
been properly maintained for safe operation. Ensure all
motor bolts are tight and ready for
use. If any of these critical items are
not functioning in accordance with
the
manufacturer’s
design
immediately contact a service facility
to schedule a thorough inspection
and service. Always operate your
engine(s)
as
directed
in
manufacturer’s manual.
RETREIVING THE BOAT FROM THE WATER
If you were paying attention when you launched the boat,
you’ll know how deep to submerge the trailer in order to pick
the boat back up (assuming the tide hasn’t changed too
much in the meantime). Your trailer should be equipped
with a safety chain. You should hook the chain to the bow
eye every time you pull the boat anywhere…especially out
of the water. This one is
worth repeating because so
many people mess it up.
ALWAYS USE A SAFETY
CHAIN WHEN TRAILERING
A BOAT. Winch straps are
pretty strong, but they fray
and decay over time. If
these guys had used their
safety chains they could
have avoided some very
expensive fiberglass repairs.
STERN STRAP THE BOAT WHEN IT IS ON A TRAILER
In addition to being the law
in most states, using a
stern strap on your boat
when it is on a trailer is
just good common sense.
Even
people
with
a
rudimentary understanding
of physics realize that a boat will not stay on a trailer during a
sharp turn or over a large bump in the road if the stern is not
