RAMP GRADIENT GUIDELINES
The average distance from the rear axle of the tow vehicle to the axle of the boat trailer is 20 feet.
5% gradient = maximum boat length = 17 ft. Average water depth 20 ft. from waterline = 17 inches.
7 % gradient = maximum boat length = 21 ft. Average water depth 20 ft. from waterline = 35 inches.
9 % gradient = maximum boat length = 27 ft. Average water depth 20 ft. from waterline = 42 inches.
11 % gradient = other trailerable power boats. 4 WD Tow vehicle advised. Average water depth 20 ft. from waterline = 48 inches.
LAUNCH PROCEDURES
(Prior to backing onto the ramp)
Disconnect electrial trailer harness. (hot bulbs & cold water don't mix).
Insure drain plug is in tight.
Remove tie downs & stow them in a secure place.
Adjust engine tilt & remove outboard support bracket if installed.
Load your gear into the boat. (Easier with one person in the boat & the other handing up the gear.
On boats with vent systems, run blowers according to maunfactures specifications.
Connect fuel lines & prime if required.
Depending on the size of the boat, consider having a qualified operator in the boat during launch and recovery.
Have the required PFD'S and all recommended safety items in your boat and ready for use. Check State regs.
Know how to back your boat trailer prior to launching your boat. A busy boat ramp is not the place to practice.
Launch Procedures
Back down the ramp far enough to float the boat. Lower the engine shaft so the water intake is below the surface.
Insure the engine is in nutural gear and start the engine. Insure you have a good flow of water exiting the exhaust.
Release the trialer winch strap/cable and safety chain.
Back the trailer far enough to release the boat. Have the boat operator assist if necessary.
Take up any slack in the trailer strap/cable so it don't hang up on the pavement as you drive away.
Move your vehicle to the designated parking area.
The boat operator should move the boat out of the immediate launch area so as not to delay other boaters.
A LITTLE COURTESY GOES A LONG WAY
BOAT AND TRAILER THEFT PREVENTION
Lock all your vaulables out of sight.
Never leave your boat unattended with the keys in the boat.
Use a anti-theft bar on you outboard and a trailer hitch lock
Paint the boat name and the registeration number on the boat trailer frame.
Consider installing a hiden ignition switch.
Park in a well lighted area when possible.
Run a cable or a security chain through your trailer wheel and around the trailer frame secured with a good lock.
IF YOU THINK SAFETY AND/OR SECURITY ARE INCONVENIENT, I CAN GUARANTEE YOUR PERSPECTIVE
WILL CHANGE WHEN YOUR BOAT. TRAILER AND/OR TOW VEHICLE ARE STOLEN OR DAMAGED IN AN ACCIDENT OR SOMEONE IS INJURED OR KILLED.