On the hard

[Chuck]

what is the best way of getting a 17' sailboat off of a trailor? Besides the water. I have an idea of building a small davit like device in my garage with lolly posts and 2X12 boards. Or backing up real fast and hitting the brakes. I want to get at the Retractable keel fin. Help my motor is running.

 

[Justin - O'day Owners' Web]

Pulling the boat off the trailor.

When I wanted to get at the bottom of my daysailer I would tie a stout line to a heavy obeject behind the boat. Then I'd set up two automobile jackstands with a 4 by 4 across them under the stern of the boat. Then I would very carefully pull the trailer forward a few feet. The boat winds up support with its bow on the trailer and the stern on the 4 x4. Set up another support forward before you crawl underneath it though.Justin - O'day Owners' Web

 

[Tim OBrien]

Try renting an engine hoist with an extendable arm. Use a flat nylon towing strap (or two)to get the boat just off the trailer. Have your stands ready to slide into place. If you like the hoist you can buy them for about $150.