Trailer problems!

[Don Corcoran]

I'm having a problem at all of the launch ramps. I have to "push and push and push" my 170 until it slides off of the aft bunk boards. Has anyone replaced those boards with rollers??

 

[Ed Smith]

Are You Not Getting The Trailer Wet?

The 170 will float on two drops of water and I have not ever had a problem getting it off the trailer. I have however cussed a little putting it on with a little wind but then I stage it and use the winch. Launching on the leeward shore is always a problem and it pays to have some help and there is always someone who wants a closer look at the sleek looking 170.

 

[Don Corcoran]

Ed: Heavy motor

Ed,The problem is the 3 horse Yamaha long shaft @ 38 lbs. on the stern motor bracket. The boat can't get enough bouyancy to lift the motor off of the bunkboards even when the bunkboards are underwater..

 

[Michael Stuart]

Float it

I have a 170 with a 3HP Yamaha long shaft, just like you. Never had any problem getting the boat off the trailer. If the trailer is completely submerged, will the boat float? Sure. If the trailer is completely dry, will the boat float? Nope. Try somthing in between. You are not putting your trailer deep enough in the water. Don't worry, nothing bad will happen. If you are concerned having the trailer and car taking an unexpected swim, bring along some blocks or stones to put behind the wheels of the car. I always block may car wheels when I launch and trailer the boat, just in case.

 

[Larry]

You can make the trailer boards more slippery

I have the same problem at my ramp. It took two men to lift the bow and slide the boat off. The standard carpet covering the trailor boards can grab if the boat isn't deep enough, and let's face it- its not a good idea to submerge your car's rear brake drums, especially in salt water. I bought some plastic strips at West Marine (http://www.westmarine.com) that screw into the tops of the boards. They are called "Trailer Glyde Slicks" and sell for under $20. They are just slippery plastic with rounded edges and recessed screws, and don't scratch the boat bottom.