Towing a boat is a delicate process that involves handling many little details. You do not want to cause damage to your towing vehicle or your vessel. Understanding how to tow a boat properly is a fundamental part of owning a boat. We hope that our guide has everything you need to get started towing almost any type of boat. For more information, head to Rockingham Boat in Hampstead, New Hampshire. Our team is excited to serve Nashua and Manchester, New Hampshire.

Do Not Overload Your Vehicle

Loading your towing vehicle beyond the Gross Vehicle Weight is a recipe for disaster. Ensure that your vehicle is capable of pulling your boat trailer and vessel without straining anything. 

Pack Your Trailer Correctly

Packing a trailer involves evenly distributing weight to the left and right of the boat. Check the load capacity of the trailer before you begin, too. You do not want to overload the trailer with any of the gear. Fasten any gear stowed in the boat before you go, too. You do not want the weight in the trailer to shift unexpectedly. 

Check Lights and Tires

The lights and tires on your towing vehicle and trailer should all be functioning accurately. To check the lights, ask someone else to stand behind the vehicle while you run through the taillights, turn signals, and brake lights. 

The tires on both your towing vehicle and trailer should be inflated to the correct pressure rating. A flat or overinflated tire can cause issues once you are on the road hauling your load. 

Adjust Mirrors Before Heading Out

The mirrors on your towing vehicle have to be adjusted to give the driver a view of the trailer. You should be able to see to the end of the trailer while driving. Sometimes you can purchase mirrors designed to give you a better view of what you are towing. 

Drive Safely

Slow and steady is your best bet while towing a boat. Even an experienced driver can have issues towing a boat, even when the road conditions are excellent. Your stopping times will increase while towing any heavy cargo, which means you need to pay more attention to traffic flows. 

Inspect the Trailer

Any time you stop, take a moment to check your hitch, wiring, and tires. Make sure none of your gear is displaced. If you have secured the boat correctly, you should see nothing amiss. 

If you plan on towing boats with your vehicle, you need to know what you are doing. You can find more tips for towing boats when you visit us at Rockingham Boat. Our dealership, located in Hampstead, New Hampshire, welcomes customers from Manchester and Nashua, New Hampshire.