Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

spratt

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Oct 13, 2004
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1,461
I am preparing to take my boat out for the first time...and I do mean first time!! Someone PLEASE instruct me how and what I should do, step by step if possible, to get the boat into the water off the trailer. I know I need someone to help and hold the lines while someone else (me) drives the trailer back into the water...Should teh boat be allowed to float off the trailer, or should it be pushed off into the water? I already know to be sure the plug is in!!!<br /><br />I am going to go to the dock and watch a few folks do it before I attempt it myself...
 

mattttt25

Commander
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Sep 29, 2002
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2,661
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

you'll get long, detailed descriptions from everyone. here's a simple explanation. watch some people do it, don't be afraid to even ask someone for some help.<br /><br />ensure engine is up and plug is in. unplug your lights. tie bow and stern line and have someone handling them from the adjacent dock. back slowly until the boat just starts to float. park truck, emergency brake, chock wheels if you can. release stern chain and slowly loosen bow strap. when boat is floating, release bow strap.
 

97trophy

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Aug 18, 2004
Messages
35
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

There is a show called Ship Shape Boating that is on the DIY channel. Here is the link to the site.<br /><br /> http://www.diynet.com/diy/bo_other/0,2020,DIY_13719,00.html <br /><br /><br /> He did a whole series on launching boats. FYI, make sure you know the depth at the end of the ramp and disconnect your ligys from the vehicle. This will add life to your trailer lights. Also make sure your engine is up far enough. Happy Boating.
 

spratt

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Oct 13, 2004
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Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Thanks, and I did expect that there aremany and varied ways to do it, but I needed to have it straight in my head first...thanks to you, and to all who may reply to this. I will read every one adn then go to the water and watcha dn listen...and probably even ask a seasoned mariner to teach me!!<br /><br />Great advice!!
 

crazy charlie

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May 22, 2003
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Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Depending on the tide ,you may not be able to back down the ramp far enough for the boat to float.In this case it would be fine to push the boat off the trailer.The LAST thing you want to do is unhook the bow before pushing the boat away.DONT UNHOOK IT SOONER or you run a chance of it coming off the trailer.If you know someone that boats I would highly recommend that you invite them to have a beer with you and help you launch the boat.Charlie
 

crazy charlie

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May 22, 2003
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5,581
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

I would also recommend that you give this the first try very early in the am.This way not too many folks are around to make you nervous and you can take your time.You dont need an audience when you are not certain what you are doing and some people cant help but watch someone struggle instead of help.I see it at ramps all the time.Charlie
 

bayman

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Feb 2, 2000
Messages
669
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Definitely watch others do it a few times, but don't assume you can do it like them. Depending on your trailer bow/hull rollers and such some boats slide off way too easily (as soon as you take off the tie downs on a slight incline), while other boats don't want to budge unless the boat is in the water and starts to float.<br /><br />All kinds of bad things happen when backing and retrieving boats so it sounds like you are smart and cautious, that's good!<br /><br />When connecting and disconnecting your trailer lights, make sure your lights are OFF. Leaving your lights on when connecting/disconnecting can short out some systems.
 

18rabbit

Captain
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Nov 14, 2003
Messages
3,202
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Originally posted by crazy charlie:<br /> If you know someone that boats I would highly recommend that you invite them to have a beer with you and help you launch the boat.Charlie
Yeah ... in that order. :D :D :D
 

spratt

Lieutenant
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Oct 13, 2004
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1,461
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Originally posted by crazy charlie:<br /> I would also recommend that you give this the first try very early in the am.This way not too many folks are around to make you nervous and you can take your time.You dont need an audience when you are not certain what you are doing and some people cant help but watch someone struggle instead of help.I see it at ramps all the time.Charlie
Sheesh, I never thought of that!! As I work till afternoon every day weekdays, I was planning to go in the afternoon or eveningwith the tide (saltwater)...the onlookers probably WILL make me nervous...so I suppose I will take a day off work and take th boat in the AM hours...thanks for that!!!!
 

spratt

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Oct 13, 2004
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Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Originally posted by 18rabbit:<br />
Originally posted by crazy charlie:<br /> If you know someone that boats I would highly recommend that you invite them to have a beer with you and help you launch the boat.Charlie
Yeah ... in that order. :D :D :D
Will hafta be a Coke...gave up the beer many moons ago...but the advice is priceless:)
 

crab bait

Captain
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Feb 5, 2002
Messages
3,831
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

i got the EASIEST an best way i ever seen.. an you need no one.. an any help is un-desireable..<br /><br />get everthing ready.. unhook an ready t launch.. <br /><br />put anchor ( with rope ) in the tail bed of truck/van/hatchack/trunk..<br /><br />back down soak boat hull.. hit brakes an boat slides off..<br /><br />iether let drift out to end of rope.. or engage vehicle in forward gear an pull out somewhat to shorten the 'drift'..<br /><br />get out .. throw down achor or ty to a cleat..<br /><br />go park..
 

ED21

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 26, 2003
Messages
829
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Like Matt said (and you don't have to be a newbie to forget)-<br />Make sure the plug is in! :rolleyes:
 

roscoe

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 30, 2002
Messages
21,753
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

What size of boat are we talking about?<br />Type of trailer? bunk or roller?<br /><br />Are you experienced in backing a trailer?<br />If not, go practice in the far corner of a shopping mall or a Walmart. Back betwwen the lines and into parking places, etc.<br /><br />Plan on getting your feet wet, literally. Bring a dry pair of shoes. :) <br /><br />Don't powerload your boat onto the trailer, learn the basics first, maybe next year, grasshopper. :) <br /><br />Here are some posts to read, from the archives. Read them and take notes, refine and develope your own checklist that pertains to your boat. Make a copy and take it with you to the ramp:<br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=005462#000000 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=004947#000000 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=004792#000000 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=003822#000021 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=006326#000017 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=007786#000016 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=008466#000004 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=007334#000033 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=004947#000009 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=004936#000000 <br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=003313#000005
 

beezee28

Master Chief Petty Officer
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Jun 3, 2004
Messages
804
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

What you want to remember is also to make sure that your boat engine starts. I would start the engine first while the boat is still tied to the trailer. If the engine does not start then you can still pull the boat out and work on it further away from the launching ramp and not block anyone. One thing to remember (amongst all the others) ALWAYS TAKE YOUR TIME. Don't be rush into doing something that you are not sure. You have as much right to use the ramp as anyone and therefore be comfortable to use it.
 

umblecumbuz

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Sep 25, 2004
Messages
1,062
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Quote: 'I would start engine first while the boat is still tied to the trailer.'<br /><br />If you do that, Spratt - make sure the leg is immersed in the water, so that you NEVER RUN THE ENGINE 'DRY'.<br /><br />Have early-morning fun!<br /><br />Ciao
 

POINTER94

Vice Admiral
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Oct 12, 2003
Messages
5,031
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

spratt,<br /><br />Everyone has their reasons but by not posting where you are you lose the opportunity to gain information such as where to launch, good ramps in your area, tide info if it applies, maybe even someone to meet you at the ramp for a helping hand.<br /><br />Just some ideas to make you first trip to the ramp easier. Start engine in driveway to ensure it will start when you get to the ramp. Put plug in!!!! Bring a variety of bills to pay the ramp fee without emptying the ashtray. Understand that even the best will get their feet wet and resign yourself to the fact that this is not a bad thing. Work with purpose but take your time. Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness and picking a ramp and time of day that will afford you the max time, and easiest access will help put your mind at ease. When retrieving, raise engine and always put on safety chains.<br /><br />Want some fun, pack a lunch and go to local ramp, many good and bad ideas will make themselves apparent.<br /><br />Good luck and remember, millions of people do this successfully every day!
 

NYMINUTE

Captain
Joined
Oct 6, 2003
Messages
3,298
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

When you are ready to cast off remenber the boat has no break pedal. I remember my first outing, I went for the pedal, honest, glad no one saw that. Watch water depths too. Take your time. It gets easier and more fun.
 

petrolhead

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Oct 16, 2003
Messages
614
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

First time I did it I used the slip at a local boatyard, I had to pay of course but they were very friendly and helped me to launch her, made things much easier when I came to do it all on my own next time at a public slipway.<br />Prior to my current boat I'd never needed to use slipways, my previous boats had all been small and light enough they could just be hauled in and out of the water by hand.
 

Mark42

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Oct 8, 2003
Messages
9,334
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

Stop what you are doing and go take a boating course. You will be glad you did. So will everyone else on the water.<br /><br />Then have fun!
 

phatmanmike

Captain
Joined
Oct 24, 2003
Messages
3,869
Re: Question from a TRUE newbie, so don't laugh!!!

you need a boaters safety course. they are free. call any coast guard station. ANY !<br /><br />youll be really glad and safe afterwards
 
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