MasterCraft 2014 14v, Owner'S Manual

Page: 232 / 285

weight on the tongue should not be more than
300 pounds, but not less than 150. (Some
auto manufacturers say that tongue weight
should not exceed 200 pounds when using a
weight-carrying, bumper-mounted hitch with
full-sized cars.) Check the tow vehicle own -
er’s manual prior to first time use.
The importance of an adequate down-
load on the hitch ball cannot be over-stated.
The Trailer Hitch
There are two basic types of trailer
hitches: a weight-carrying hitch and a
weight-distribution hitch. A weight-carry-
ing hitch is recommended for use with a
MasterCraft boat and trailer. However,
weight-distributing (equalizing) hitches
may be used. Your MasterCraft trailer will
be equipped with an actuator manufactured
by UFP or Tie Down Engineering. Photos
will appear beside the appropriate instruc-
tions for each where they vary.
The chain must be vertical (straight up
and down) under the pulling load where
the actuator is extended. Excessive tongue
weight beyond the actuator rating must be
avoided as it will reduce the brake per -
formance and could damage the actuator.
Always follow the hitch manufacturer’s
instructions. Before deciding upon which
type of hitch to use, also consult the tow
vehicle manufacturer for recommendations
from the tow vehicle’s perspective.
Be sure that the total weight of the trail-
er-boat rig does not exceed the hitch’s load
capacity. The maximum weight it can han -
dle is stamped on the hitch. Also, be sure
the hitch ball is the correct size to match the
coupler on the trailer. The correct ball di -
ameter is marked on the trailer coupler. The
hitch should also provide a place for attach -
ing the trailer’s safety cables—two rings or
holes on either side of the hitch ball.
A truck or van using a step bumper as
the hitch platform will need to have safety
cable attachments such as eye-bolts, as well
as a hitch ball, which has been installed ac -
cording to the Society of Automotive En -
gineers (SAE) J684 Standard. Installing a
light or heavy-duty hitch can be a major
undertaking. The hitch and its installa -
tion must meet the SAE J684 Standard. It
is recommended that the job be done by a
professional. An authorized MasterCraft
dealer can offer advice.
To ensure that the boat is riding properly
on the trailer supports, the trailer should be
in a level position when hitched to the tow
vehicle. The recommended height of the
hitch ball, according to the National Marine
Manufacturer’s Association (“NMMA”), is
18 to 20 inches to the top of the ball from
the ground. More importantly, failure to ad -
just to this height may prematurely activate
the surge brakes.
This can be corrected in a number of
different ways. For example, air-pressure
adjustable shock absorbers may be in-
stalled on the tow vehicle, or switch from
a weight-carrying hitch to a weight-distrib-
uting hitch. Again, consult with the tow-
vehicle’s dealer or manufacturer.
In general, for Class 3 rigs (3,500 to 5,000
lbs.), a two-inch (2”) ball is the requirement.
For Class 4 (5,000 to 10,000 lbs.), a ball of
either 2” or 2-5/16” will be required.
If the total weight on the loaded trailer ex-
ceeds the load capacity of the hitch on the
tow vehicle, then the trailer may break free,
which may result in serious injury or death
and/or property damage.
MasterCraft Trailers • 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual Page 7-7
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