拖船安全

Before setting out for your favorite waterway, take a moment to learn more 关于 boat trailer safety.

如何选择船拖车

Towing safety begins by choosing the proper trailer for your boat's weight and size. Most trailers have a capacity plate that lists the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. This figure will tell you if the trailer is rated to handle the total weight of your boat, 电动机, 燃料和其他船上设备. Check to see that your trailer has a capacity greater than your total load — your load 不应超过80% 拖车的总容量.

检查船和拖车是否合适

Also, an ill-fitting trailer can lead to unbalanced loads, as well as hull damage. Choose a trailer that allows your boat's hull to fit snugly on the rollers and other contact points. If you have any questions 关于 fit, discuss them with a qualified dealer.

检查车辆的拖拽能力

As with your trailer, your 车辆 and its hitch should be rated to handle the 牵引负载, and that the hardware on the trailer and hitch match. Check your 车辆 owner's manual for towing information for gross axle weight rating (GAWR) and gross 车辆 weight rating. 如果你有其他问题, your 车辆 or trailer's manufacturer may be able to help you determine whether your 车辆 and its hitch are up to the job.

系好你的船拖车

Consider the following steps to help get your boat trailer securely fastened to your 车辆 and ready for the road.

• Distribute gear evenly in the boat for a balanced load.
• Secure boat tie downs to ensure that the boat won't shift during transport.
• Lower the trailer coupler onto the 车辆's hitch ball and lock the safety pin.
• Connect safety chains in a crisscross "X" pattern to the frame of the towing 车辆.
• 将拖车照明电缆连接到车辆.
• 检查所有的拖车灯是否正常工作.
• If applicable, test trailer brakes and brake lights.
• Check for proper 车辆 and trailer tire pressure.
• Check that all fasteners are properly tightened.

拖船时安全驾驶

Driving with a loaded boat trailer is a skill worth practicing. Before taking to the open road, consider practicing in an empty parking lot and in light traffic. While you're t在这里, practice backing up (especially before hitting the boat ramp). See below for additional tips that might help you drive more safely while towing:

• Consider installing extended side-view mirrors.
• Watch for 车辆s that may quickly come up behind you.
• 允许更大的转弯.
• 给自己更多的刹车距离.
• Place your hands on the bottom of the steering wheel when backing up.
• When being passed by large trucks, take your foot off the gas to help minimize buffeting.
• Readjust the trailer's tongue weight if you notice excessive swaying.
• 每到一站都要检查拖车的轮毂. If they are hot, your bearings may need to be serviced.

别忘了 保持安全 在你到达目的地之后. 在你下水之前 和州立农场的代理人谈谈 关于 为你的船投保.