Edgewater Networks 188 Center Console 2014, Owner Assistance Manual

Page: 25 / 177

24
If you are new to trailering your boat, it is best to practice before actually getting in a situation
where you are not sure of your ability. If possible use a trailer without a boat to practice with as
you can see the trailer’s movement without the boat. Also, your vision will not be
impaired by the boat’s presence.
When going forward, remember that your trailer turns inside the tow vehicle,
therefore the tow vehicle must start the turn slightly later than without the trailer.
This allows the trailer to turn inside the tow vehicle radius without leaving the
roadway.
When backing, remember, the bottom of the steering wheel will move in the
direction the trailer will ultimately go. Backing consists of two parts, breaking the
Tow
vehicle
Trailer
Bottom View of
Crossed Trailer
Chains
trailer by turning the vehicle’s backward motion in the opposite direction from the ultimate trailer
direction, then following the trailer toward the correct direction with the tow vehicle. It is prudent to
go to a large paved area with little traffic to practice these maneuvers before attempting them on
the boat ramp.
Remember to check to see if the tow ball is the same size as the trailer coupler. Never use
a different size.
9.9 Launching Your Boat
When you arrive at the ramp, prepare your boat before getting in the ramp line.
Make sure the hull plug is in place.
Place a line on the bow and stern cleats to be at the dock ready.
Have fenders out and on the proper side.
Raise the engine so it will not be damaged during launching.
Make sure the battery switch is in one of the “on” positions, and the boat key is in the ignition.
Remove any tie-down straps.
If someone is with you, hand them the free end ofthe bow line and have them follow the trailer as
you enter the ramp.
Back the boat into the water until it barely floats. Remove the winch line. The boat should now
come free with a gentle tug on the bowline.
Lower the engine, pump the fuel bulb until firm and crank the engine.
Let it idle for a few minutes to warm up before getting under way.
9.10 Retrieving Your Boat
There are several ways to retrieve your boat. The method described herein requires two persons.
Drop someone off to back the trailer into the water, or do it yourself. If doing it yourself, makes
sure you make it easy and safe to exit the boat after it is loaded onto the trailer.
Back the trailer into the water until the bunks are completely submerged, or until the middle roller
is just touching the water. (This depth should provide enough to float the boat until the last minute
and yet provide enough resistance from the trailer to stop the boat short of the winch stand.)