Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
05-03-2005, 01:19 PM
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Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
OK, as most know we've got a new boat. Said boat, a 29' Powerquest, came with a spiffy dual axle trailer. Tomorrow, yours truly is taking the boat down to the marina where it will be rack stored.
Of course, to get it into the rack, it must first go into the water. And that's the rub - I've never launched a boat from the trailer. Ever. And I have only the vaguest idea what steps need to be taken to do it the right way.
Luckily, I'll be using the marina's ramp, so it should not be crowded and I'll probably be able to snag a hand or two. Can anyone give me a step-by-step, boat launching 101 lesson?
Many, many thanks!
Of course, to get it into the rack, it must first go into the water. And that's the rub - I've never launched a boat from the trailer. Ever. And I have only the vaguest idea what steps need to be taken to do it the right way.
Luckily, I'll be using the marina's ramp, so it should not be crowded and I'll probably be able to snag a hand or two. Can anyone give me a step-by-step, boat launching 101 lesson?
Many, many thanks!
05-03-2005, 01:24 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
put in plug, take off back straps, let a few feet out on front strap, put on dock lines. back trailer in while someone holds lines. when boat floats take off front straap.. pull boat back, tie it up, park trailer, drink beer.. or pay me a bottle of captain to come do it for you from toledo..LOL
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05-03-2005, 01:26 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
Two suggestions,, get in the boat first, have wife back boat in,, make sure boat starts ON THE TRAILER,, you would be surprised how many start in the driveway and not at the ramp,, THEN winch it off the trailer.. and let the wifey park the truck..
Last edited by Chris288; 05-03-2005 at 01:33 PM.
05-03-2005, 01:29 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
If I remember right when my boat was delivered they just used the fork truck and lifted it off the trailer, no need to launch the boat..
05-03-2005, 01:30 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
I am willing to drive up there, drink some of Packin's Capt and Coke... and also help you. 
Heck.... you should get as many hecklers.... I mean helpers as you can.
Heck.... you should get as many hecklers.... I mean helpers as you can.
05-03-2005, 01:30 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
Take off the tiedown straps.
Make sure the plug is in!
Turn on the blower (to vent any gas fumes).
DO NOT remove the winch strap or safety chain.
Back the boat into the water so that it barely floats.
Get out of the truck (I like to leave it running).
Remove the winch strap and safety chain, but DO NOT allow the boat to float away.
Get in the boat and start the engine.
Back the boat out and secure it to a dock (I like to leave it running).
Go park the truck.
Get in the boat and head out.
Make sure the plug is in!
Turn on the blower (to vent any gas fumes).
DO NOT remove the winch strap or safety chain.
Back the boat into the water so that it barely floats.
Get out of the truck (I like to leave it running).
Remove the winch strap and safety chain, but DO NOT allow the boat to float away.
Get in the boat and start the engine.
Back the boat out and secure it to a dock (I like to leave it running).
Go park the truck.
Get in the boat and head out.
Last edited by Clay Washington; 05-03-2005 at 01:33 PM.
05-03-2005, 01:31 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
Originally Posted by snopro13
If I remember right when my boat was delivered they just used the fork truck and lifted it off the trailer, no need to launch the boat..
Thanks all, I'll be on my own but should be able to get the dockhands to help with the lines. I find a cooler of beer in the beginning and end of the season works wonders on the relationship with the storage guys.
05-03-2005, 01:31 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
Originally Posted by snopro13
If I remember right when my boat was delivered they just used the fork truck and lifted it off the trailer, no need to launch the boat..
05-03-2005, 01:33 PM
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Re: Launching 101 - somewhat embarrassed.
As stated above but we also unplug the lights from the truck before backing into the water. Don't get in a rush. Pull off to the side and double check everything before getting on the ramp.
