What should I be concerned with when towing a boat/motor?

Question

I'm going to be towing a boat/motor 300 miles. Is there anything I need to be concerned with when securing the motor to the boat. It seems like the motor could get bounced around too much.

Answer 1

A stabilizer bar should be used to hold the motor in position.(can be bought at Wal Mart) The steering should be locked in position to keep the motor straight ahead. The boat should be securely strapped to the trailer. Be sure the safety chains are on the trailer hitch and boat winch.

Answer 2

motor should be locking mode not on tilt motor. there should be a locking bar or something.

also, make sure safely chain is on front bow and transom strap for rear.

Answer 3

If you have enough clearance under the skeg, tow with the motor in normal running position, it'll be fine.  If not, use a "transom saver" from any marine store.

Strap the boat tightly to the trailer at the stern and at the bow.

Uncovered is best but if you have a cover designed for trailering, follow their recommendations for securing it.

Tire pressure:  boat trailer tires (unlike car tires) are always filled to max capacity -- usually 50 PSI.  Neglect this you *will* have a blow-out.

Don't underestimate the additional distance required to stop -- it might surprise you.

Follow the directions in your vehicle owners manual regarding towing in overdrive (auto transmission).  If you're unsure, engage the overdrive lock-out feature.

If you're loading the boat down with camping gear, be aware of tongue weight --  tongue-light trailer takes weight off your vehicles rear wheels and in my experience, sways uncontrollably;  tongue-heavy trailer takes weight off your vehicles front wheels, and you can feel it bouncing the tow vehicle.

Be aware that if your vehicle isn't made for towing, or otherwise equipped with an auxilliary transmission cooler, you're doing irreversible damage to the tranny.

Answer 4

Like the answers about the trailer condition and about the engine support -Good advise-only thing I saw left out is the actual position (location) of the boat on the trailer. The transom should be close to the back roller of the trailer. This will transfer the bouncing load of the engine thru the transom directly to the trailer and not thru the boat hull .  

Answer 5

Secure the hitch to the tow vehicle, slow down, inspect the tires, brakes, lights and safety chains.  Cover your load, allow that your average speed will be 40 MPH, top speed 55. Allow extra clearance for everything, practice backing with the trailer in place.  Slow down and take your time. It is better to get there late than not get there at all.  

Answer 6

go to a  boating store and get a transom saver... it holds up some of the wait of the engine with the trailer insted of on your boat

Answer 7

In addition to what others have said, in the actual driving you need to be concerned about fishtailing, hydroplaning, and backing up with the trailer.  Make sure you know how to back up with a trailer.

Answer 8

that the engine is up high enough that it does not hit the road  

Answer 9

You wanna check the trailer out too...make sure the lights are working, tires in good shape and make sure the bearings have grease in 'em!! The water from local lakes, rivers, etc will wash the grease out causing the bearings to fail--you dont want that to happen, keep your ears tuned to any funny grinding/screeching noises while you tow the boat.