Trailering from MD to TN

[snapshotmd]

Would you haul a 16' aluminum bass boat from Maryland to Tennessee, and back? If so, what precautions should I take? What should I look out for? FYI, it's a 600 mile trip 1 way. Will be going thru some 6% grades in VA. Driving a minivan with 2 adults and 2 kids.

 

[crb478]

Re: Trailering from MD to TN

How does your mini van pull the boat where you are? If you have enough power to pull it and enough brakes to stop it I would not hesitate to take the trip. I would make sure that the hubs were greased before I left, and if you have buddy bearings I would take a grease gun with me to top them off. Buddy bearings would be a good idea if you don't already have them. To be of the safe side you can take an extra hub and bearings to handle an emergency on the road. A spare tire would also be a good idea for that distance.

The grades in Va will probably slow you down some, but if your van is in good shape you should not have any problems. If it is underpowered you may have to drop your speed. I would be more worried a the van than the boat trailer.

 

[dgopetactical]

Re: Trailering from MD to TN

I agree with crb478. The only thing i would do different is I would visualy inspect your wheel bearings and replace if needed, I replace my bearings every 2-3 years needed or not and do a repacking every year. Tire condition and air pressure is important too. Stop every 200 mi do a totaal walk around and feel your hubs for overheating.

As far as the steep grades i would take my time dont over rev your engine your van most likely want to kick in and out of low gear all the time going up steeper grades, try to avoid this go slow turn you 4 ways on if needed and dont be in a rush to get to the top. Other than that have a great time
Denny

P.s. I personaly would drop my family and gear off at the bottom and tell them you will meet you at the top. Thats a good deterent to keep the kids in line do that one time and you will have a quiet ride the whole way there

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Trailering from MD to TN

it is recommended not to tow in overdrive, tow in regular drive, this will be a little more expensive on fuel. spare tire, jack, wrench that fits trailer lugs, suggest 4 way. check the hub at every stop, just put you hand on it. should be cool. put a pad lock thru the hitch mechanism. we do a 700 one way trip, several times a year, with a 5,000 lb boat, and a Surburban.

 

[mthieme]

Re: Trailering from MD to TN

I would pack the bearings beforehand and have a spare tire.
If you have bearing buddies, it might not be a bad idea to take a grease gun along. Obviously do a light check to make sure they are working properly - this is always my biggest problem.
What size are your tires out of curiousity? (Please don't say 8" !)