2023 DBW Course_for_Safe_Boating 12.6.23 Update
Chapter 3 u Vessel Operation
The Trailer Hitch A hitch is used to attach the trailer tongue to the ball on the towing vehicle. The ball should be bolted or welded to the towing vehicle. Special heavy-duty equalizing hitches are necessary for trailer tongue or hitch weights of 350 pounds or more. The size of the coupler on the hitch should match the size of the ball exactly. Never use a ball that is too small, because your trailer could sepa rate from the towing vehicle. The weight rating and size in inches should be stamped on the ball. The trailer should be equipped with two strong, rust-free, safety chains. The chains should be crossed under the hitch/tongue to form an “X” when you connect them to the frame of the towing vehicle. Use sealed waterproof electrical connections on the trailer. Wire couplings should be high enough to remain dry when on- or off-loading the boat. Never use the trailer hitch for the ground connection. Instead, use four-pole electrical connectors. The tongue weight on the ball affects the towing vehicle and the trailer. No more than 5 to 7 percent of the total tow weight should be on the hitch. You can distribute weight properly by adjusting the trailer’s wheel carriage either forward or backward. If the carriage cannot be adjusted, relocate movable gear in the boat until the trailer is more balanced. Too much weight on the rear of the vehicle: Raises the front end and makes it difficult to control. Affects the steering and traction on front-wheel drive vehicles. Raises the focus of the head lights, possibly blinding drivers of on-coming vehicles. Reduces the driver’s field of vision. Not enough weight on the rear of the vehicle: Will cause the trailer to sway or fishtail. Increases the chances that the trailer hitch will separate from the ball.
TRAILER HITCH
tow car
ball
shackle
crossed chains
trailer
CAUTION
Y ou must disconnect tail lights from the tow vehicle while getting ready to launch. This allows the bulbs to cool down before they are dipped in the water and prevents a short circuit in the vehicle’s electrical system.
50
California Course for Safe Boating
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