Trailering; Hitch; Trailering Checklist - Yamaha EXCITER Owner's/Operator's Manual

TRAILERING

WARNING
Avoid accident and injury from
improper trailering:
The trailer must be matched for
the Jet Boat's weight and hull.
The towing vehicle must have the
capacity of pulling the load.
Pulling a load that exceeds the
Jet Boat's towing capacity may
cause loss of control.
Be sure the boat is secured to the
trailer and the trailer is properly
hitched to the towing vehicle
before towing.
Always place the fuel cocks in the
"OFF" position when transport-
ing or storing the Jet Boat.
Otherwise, fuel could leak out
into the engine or engine com-
partment, which could create a
fire or explosion hazard.
Select a trailer that is manufactured to
carry a boat of the size and weight of
your Jet Boat. Check the certification
label on the left forward side of the trail-
er. This label is required to show the
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR),
which is the load carrying capacity of
the trailer plus the trailer's weight. Be
sure that the total weight of your boat,
any cargo, and the trailer weight itself
does not exceed the GVWR.

HITCH

The trailer hitch ball must match the
size of the socket on the trailer hitch
coupler. Hitches are divided into class-
es that specify the gross trailer weight
(GTW) and the maximum tongue
weight. Always use a hitch rated for the
same or higher class. Use a bolted-on
or welded-on hitch; clamp-on bumper
hitches are not recommended. Be sure
the trailer hitch's release handle is
latched with the lock pin installed
before towing.
Use safety chains between the towing
vehicle and the trailer so the trailer will
not detach completely from the towing
vehicle if it accidentally comes loose
from the hitch ball. Crisscross the
chains under the trailer tongue so the
tongue will not hit the road surface if it
falls loose. Rig the chains as tightly as
possible while allowing just enough
slack to permit tight turns.
Be sure the tongue weight (vertical
weight on the hitch point) is correct.
Generally, 5% to 10% of the combined
weight of the boat and trailer should be
on the tongue. Too much or too little
weight can cause difficult steering or
trailer swaying.

TRAILERING CHECKLIST

Check your state laws to be sure
your trailer meets all regulations,
such as proper licensing, brake,
axle load, and safety chain require-
ments.
Check trailer for any loose fasteners
or damaged parts.
Check tires for proper inflation.
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PERATION