Beginner's guide to launching a trailer boat

In this video I look at the very basics of launching and retrieving a boat trailer. This includes hooking it up to the car, putting the boat on, getting it ready to tow, what to look for on the road and also how to put the boat into the water. We also look at a bit of boat ramp etiquette.
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[@bobw222]

After years of battling backing trailers up I came across a tip that makes it easy. Hold onto the bottom of the steering wheel instead of the top. Then just move your hand in the direction you want the trailer to turn. Push the wheel left and the trailer goes left. push right, the trailer goes right. Works like a charm.

[@edn5170]

Man, this it top tier tip! gotta try. thanks!

[@flgardener1155]

I recently just purchased my first boat. My father was an avid fisherman and always had a boat of one sort or another when I was growing up. So I have some very distant boating experience. Watching your videos is a terrific refresher course for me. Of all the boating video channels I've watched on KZbin, yours is my favorite. I enjoy your low key demeanor and lack of filler in your videos. I also appreciate your omission of the omnipresent "Like and Subscribe". While I really enjoy your laidback style, sometimes I do struggle to understand your audio especially when you are trying to talk with an outboard motor running in the background. Sometimes you "speak Australian" and use expressions probably common in Australia that I don't understand being American.

[@kewyngold8327]

Never reversed an form of trailer and followed your advice. Worked perfectly so much so I was in an out within 10 mins without even rushing through anything. Thanks for the tips

[@gabeloftus9773]

If I can add my safety tip of the day ! Always put the ratchet part of the strap on the shoulder side ,so by some chance you need to pull to the side of the road and tighten the straps , you don't have to stand on the traffic side of the trailer ✌😎

[@DangarMarine]

Yep, definitely a good way to go.

[@Dave-it3tl]

My boat is (very ancient), it has no power trim or tilt, mid '70s Mercury 85. It was great to see how easy you made it retrieving the boat with the motor down. I have always thought I't was going to be a much bigger deal than you showed it to be, just a bit of caution and its no issue. Thanks Stu.

[@stuieblack]

You're content is so good. The rawness is great for first timers too, gives us a realistic look at what's going on. Thanks mate you're a legend.

[@DangarMarine]

Awesome, thank you!

[@BennyFadez]

Just got my first boat here in the u.s. You're videos are very informative and you never miss a beat. Ive changed seals and learned how to launch a boat from a ramp, just by watching your videos. Thank you for your time and great instruction sir!

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks Erik, glad the vids have been helping you. Enjoy your new boat! :)

[@joey243win]

Love the Alfa Romeo badge haha

[@kingswoodhj76]

This was really good to watch. I have recently purchased my first boat, have to paint it and do a few other things but am looking forward to getting on the water this summer. I have never launched a boat so seeing this is good for me, thanks for uploading!!

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks mate, good luck with your new boat, I hope it gives you plenty of enjoyment.

[@Kurtdog63]

Lots of good tips and info. One trick for backing the boat trailer is put your steering wheel hand on the bottom of your vehicle steering wheel. Which ever way you move your steering hand is the direction the boat trailer will turn. If you want to be entertained, get a lawn chair and a cold drink, sit close the boat ramp, and watch husband tell wife how to back boat trailer in. I am pretty sure some marriages have ended at a boat ramp.

[@alangrant5278]

Lovely day and quiet ramp. Rare perfection !

[@kennethward9582]

Turning the wheel to the mirror worked great today! Caught a mess of fish. Backed down the ramp like a pro. Thank you from Colorado. And no, never seen that kind of hitch before.

[@DangarMarine]

You're welcome mate. Glad you had a great day fishing. :)

[@thull1234]

The bird crying out at the beginning is hilarious

[@DangarMarine]

Australian birds are nuts.

[@officialWWM]

Straya!

[@ramblinman2033]

I've been watching your videos for just a short time. One tip I learned early on when launching and retrieving my boat is getting to know the lake or other body of water and if there is more than one ramp available at different locations on the lake. I say this because my first experience of launching my boat was at a ramp on the windward side of the lake where the wind was strong and the lake was very choppy. The second time I launched was at a marina on the calm side of the lake where the ramp was in a small protected cove and I had a much better experience learning how to launch my boat. These days I never go back to ramp on the windward side because it's not worth the extra trouble. Please keep making the videos as I learn something new even after years of boating experience. :-)

[@DangarMarine]

That's a really good point. A few people have mentioned investigating the boat ramp which is good advice. Because I always use the one boat ramp I don't think so much about the depth, orientation, protection etc, but if you travel around it is well worth thinking about the best spot for the conditions. Safe boating! :)

[@bretts1]

Especially if boat ramp has walkway so one can launch their boat alone. Key is to ignore busy times if your alone as ramps are always busy at my local marina at end of day. He shows one important point so darn many people miss. The chains need crossed and length right so it ball breaks going over tracks or down road the trailer does not dig into pavement.

[@allthingsaustralia4861]

I know this is old video but found that a great tip steering towards the trailer in the mirror. I have always rubber necked it - this will help me a lot since I am not as young as I used to be, love it, thanks, Stew.

[@DangarMarine]

Glad it helped you Troy. I always like little short cuts like that until practice makes it second nature.

[@stephensimpson5283]

One tip I have for everyone is with straps, try not to leave them without a twist. Yes, put a twist in the strap when tying down. If you leave a strap straight, when you drive along on the road/highway/freeway, it will get a harmonic vibration happening. This vibration will actually shatter a strap. External loading in a helicopter in the army, we where taught to put 1 twist in for every 3 ft of strap. so one twist would be fine for a boat. same with the straps on your Bimini if you have it up when going to or from the ramp. Just put one twist in it. The harmonic vibration can't go around corners (the twist) and will stop. Try it next time your on the road. Put a twist in one side and no twist in the other. watch the none twisted strap vibrate like a bastard! :)

[@DangarMarine]

Hi Stephen, that's a really interesting strap. I know exactly the vibration you are talking about and it can get pretty bad at speed. Thanks for sharing! :)

[@officialWWM]

Science :)

[@FAKE-NAME]

Dam I'm using that tip for sure, that vibration noise has driven me nuts on many occasions... don't know why I never thought to twist the dam thing seems so simple

[@fabiansosa5318]

There's a lot to take into consideration when launching at ramps as you are well aware.I hope you don't mind if i share some tips to help others out too to add to yours.A good tip for beginers is to always check where the end of the ramp ends on unfamiliar ramps as you don't want your trailer wheels to go off the end,keep your windows down and doors unlocked,make sure your in park in an auto or 1st gear in a manual with the handbrake firmly applied,use chock/s behind trailer wheels particularly for heavy boats on slimy ramps(I have a pair off wooden chocks with a rope inbetween both that I simply place behind each wheel and loop the rope over the towball that when I drive away after launch/retrieval follow me up to the pre-rig area).If you have a partner get them to hold the brake pedal down when launching retrieving especially heavy boats as all 4 wheels will be braked instead of the 2 rears only when using the handbrake.If winching on use a long painter(rope) tied to the bow and stern at both ends to control the front and rear of the boat easier especially in wind and cross currents.Try to let the bearings cool for a period of time before dunking the trailer to prevent bearings sucking in water.When backing and making turns its easier to turn to the right as you'll get a better view of the trailer during the turn(this helps when backing into garage at home etc).These are just a few tips to add to Stuart's great advice and most of all enjoy your new boat and the pleasures of being a boater. Great video Stu. Cheers.

[@DangarMarine]

Great advice Fabian. I think I suffer for really only using the one boat ramp I am quite familiar with (and it is very protected), so it's great to hear the types of challenges people here when they travel around to unfamiliar boat ramps and ones with tricky currents etc. Thanks for sharing! :)

[@terrynorton3182]

If you put one twist in your strap it should stop it “thrumming”. A lorry driver told me that? Great vid, as always.

[@dsarbora]

From a strap manufacturer: "Putting a half twist in a tiedown strap will reduce vibration and extend the life of the fabric." www.ancracargo.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/flatbed_tiedown.pdf

[@captdonformulapacific228]

Thank you for the advice!

[@retrocny5625]

I used to use similar ratchet straps to keep the transom of my boat against the bunks, but I recently installed a pair of those BoatBuckles that mount to the trailer frame and are ratcheting AND retractable just like a car's seat belt. Great $60 investment as they really simplify that step of the launching/recovering process. If you're boat has eye hooks on the back of the transom, you just hook to those and then ratchet the boat down on each side and lock the buckle. When you go to launch the boat, you unlock the ratchet and the strap retracts down into the buckle and stays tucked away until you need it again. I love them. My uncle's boat had these installed from the Lund dealership and when I saw them, I knew I had to get a pair for my trailer.

[@DangarMarine]

They sound really interesting, I'll look them up now.

[@BigRift]

I like how you made sure to emphasize the boat prep areas. Nothing I hate more than waiting for people to unstrap the boat after they already put the trailer in the water. Great video as always looking forward to watching you fix the hydraulics.

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks mate. A bit of boat ramp etiquette is always good to learn. ;)

[@dap5790]

Wow that boat has been through a bit. Great video!

[@bp-ob8ic]

19:57 "That's going nowhere" Said every man that ever tightened a ratchet strap ...

[@DangarMarine]

Pretty much. 😝

[@darrylmcleman6456]

Cheers again from Canadas West Coast.A lot of boaters over here will install wooden plank with carpet on trailer to use as a walkway.Also prefab.metal walkways available.

[@garypugh1153]

you answer all remarkes. i like that.

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks Gary. Sometimes I miss some! :)

[@gemeen_aapje]

Great videos, thanks so much. If I was in the right hemisphere I'd buy you a beer. Thanks very much

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks mate!

[@mrhammadmossop1988ul-haq]

Thanks for this upload

[@davidf2703]

Good work. Very easy to relate to. Thanks for sharing!

[@mrpoopypants9586]

Thanks mate. Just bought my first boat, so helps to get some tips and try to avoid botching it. Really enjoying your stuff. Cheers. PP

[@julianhubbard5527]

Thanks for an absolutely fantastic video. So many top tips. We’ll be launching our new boat in 2 weeks and I’ll be using your tips. Well done mate and greetings from Cologne.

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks Julian. I hope your new boat gives you many years of pleasure. :)

[@pole_barn_builder]

How did it go?

[@FAKE-NAME]

Random tip......Get a bar clamp take the clamp parts off and reverse them that way instead of clamping it spreads. Before getting out of vehicle do usual routine Parking break turn wheel etc then place bar clamp spreader in between brake pedal and seat and open up clamp. Doing this will hold front and rear breaks of vehicle instead of just rear like parking break. Front tires on dry ramp and rear on green algae I'd definitely want both brakes engaged.

[@barrybebenek8691]

Lots of good info once again. The “how to dock” one was great for me too. PS...luv the “design”/metal “fabrication” of the bow of The Green Machine. 😂🇨🇦👍🏼

[@DangarMarine]

Glad you liked it!

[@ryanjoseph3529]

very well put together as always i learnt something today

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks Ryan, glad it helped.

[@ryanjoseph3529]

well done buddy

[@williamogilvie6909]

Well done!

[@randombiker1202]

Hi. I have watched so many of your videos. You have been such a great thing to have in my tool box. Which is why Im not happy with myself that my first comment is thus. I would like to add to your wonderful, video, that if the base under the trailer is sand, DO NOT use your engine to bring the boat further up the trailer. By doing that the prop wash creates a hole in the sand under the water for the next vehicle to get stuck in. Sorry that my first comment detracts from your AWESOME videos.

[@DangarMarine]

Hi mate. All good, very nicely put. Good point about the sand. All the boat ramps I use are concrete for a fair way out but that certainly isn't the case everywhere so it is an excellent point to remind people of.

[@matthewmoses4222]

Matter of interest, I find it easier when reversing a trailer to keep my hands on the bottom of the steering wheel, if I need it to go right I push up with my right hand, if I need it to go left I push up with my left hand.

[@DangarMarine]

+Matthew Moses HI Matthew, that's a good idea! Thanks for sharing. :)

[@robkelly5120]

Stu, awesome stuff. I put always put my working eqiuip/ropes etc for on the passenger side, so should anything need to to be corrected enroute, that way i can do manage safely as per truck driver standards. Also, I have a tinny similar to green machine and added another ratchet strap at the bow, pulling the bow fwd and down, with the stern strap positioned behind 2 cleats pulling the boat fwd into the fwd roller, at the winch.

[@paulobrien619]

this a great vid . i dont have a boat licence but a lot of common sense . so my bro launches the boat with me in it . i start it puttt around and pick him up on the wharf

[@DangarMarine]

Yep, Arn and I do the same thing when the two of us are together, it's a great way to go.

[@rik4369]

Great video for us " rookies". Appreciate the point of doing your prep off the ramp. Just subscribed.

[@DangarMarine]

You're welcome Randy, thanks for subscribing!

[@officialWWM]

8.30, that was some pretty impressive parking!

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks. :)

[@bobpitt1261]

Good job Stu, given you were working with one hand operating the camera. When testing my trailer lights, I use my tackle box to press down on the brake pedal. That way I can check all the trailer lights single-handed.

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks mate, it's nice to hear someone understand how hard it can be doing this type of thing on your own. Good tip about using your tackle box to test the brake lights! :)

[@jamesbach2021]

Great points. Set up and tear down your boat in the appropriate areas. Don't tie up the launch itself. Especially when you are backing in, TAKE YOUR TIME. It will wind up being faster in the long run. I constantly have to be on the look out for walkers who will walk right behind you when you are backing into the water. Not mentioned in the video, but pay your launch fee. At least here in America, most launch ramps have a minimal fee to defray the maintenance. Power loading is a big no no where I come from. Especially when the water is low. It creates an axle catching hole where the concrete ends. Not a good thing. I've watched a few video's from Dangar Marine. Great work! I'm hitting the subscribe button!

[@DangarMarine]

Interesting that you guys have launch fees. Most boat ramps that I use in Australia are public but then again I know there are a lot of ramps at ski parks where I presume to you to be staying to use so I guess the ramp fees are included in the site fees.

[@normandunnaganjr.5034]

I wanted to share a super easy solo launch method. So you install a rope cleat on the back of your trailer with stainless screws and nuts. I put Teflon around mine. Not centered, go off to the left or right a little. Tie rope around this, a good bit , you will run this rope to your eye bolt up front that your winch is hooked to. The idea is to unhook the winch and safety straps, and abruptly brake with your boat in the water almost - she slides right in on the first try if you do it right. Inch forward in your vehicle and “tow” the boat a bit closer to shore and get your trailer out the water. Put vehicle in park with the P brake on. You should have another rope affixed to the eye bolt that you can handle your boat with and tie off to a nearby piling while you park your vehicle. Always untie the trailer rope from the eye bolt before doing this - to avoid congestion - Make sure the launch rope has a clear path sitting inside the boat - mine runs along the lip of my boat, but I only take it out when it’s time to launch. It stays tied in a knot over the cleat when I am mobile. I should do a video on this, I found this method very useful and cannot find the original video I found it from. It was a guy with just a couple hundred views. But this method is great. Just make sure the safety straps are off the back before doing your abrupt launching, otherwise you become the show. :)

[@vetterfellow]

Yes Capitan; I think you covered it all. When I brought my boat home the strap tail was fluttering about and at the traffic light this bobo stopped on the top of my strap. What a surprise I got when I tried to pull away. Thanks fer another great video. PS. you drive on the wrong side of the road there,,, LOL. :-D

[@DangarMarine]

Another tip I was just given that I wish I had included was to put the buckle of the ratchet strap on the passenger side (left!) so that if you need to pull over and tighten it you are standing in the traffic.

[@vetterfellow]

Yes that was my second mistake, My ratchet was on the drivers side too. I did get to the fix quicker. Safety first. I do learn as I live.

[@josephpace40]

great video lots fun waching had some good larfts keek them coming joe in uk living east cost on top off sea thancs

[@Ttelmis]

Got the basics, thanks. Just remains for me to fit a submarine TV in the car just in case it gets submerged. Cheers, mate!

[@TheDanielSnipz]

hey :D i was wounding when you would do this video :D thanks mate :)

[@DangarMarine]

It is a bit overdue, that's for sure. :)

[@JamesDriver40]

There's one more smart thing you did, but I don't think you mentioned it: You crossed your safety chains between the trailer and the tow vehicle. Crossed, they will catch the hitch if it jumps off the ball (worn or poorly adjusted lock mechanism, or forgetting to lock the handle in) and reduce swaying of the trailer. if they're not crossed, not only can you get speed wobbles, but if the chains are long enough, the hitch can hit the road and really upset things!

[@mikeuitscheveningen]

turn your wheels al the way to one direction ,if the brake fails your car wont go strait back in the water. cheers from holland

[@DangarMarine]

Good tip!

[@mikeuitscheveningen]

thanks

[@oldhardrock2542]

Good advice. We watched from across the lake while someone's new pickup rolled right down the ramp until water was to the dash..

[@johnking4002]

thank you for all your vidos i have lernd a lot waching your repare vidos showed me a lot too hope you put more out thanks john king in the usa nc

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks John, glad the videos have been helping you. :)

[@johnking4002]

you have dunn grate with the videos have you ever tested trolin motters and hale long thay last whats the safe running time on a 12 volt battery with a 30 amp minn kota motter all i get here is amps draw but no true run time

[@netltube]

When I saw that hitch on the trailer, I was cracking up! grew up around boats my whole life in east coast us, never saw a hitch like that. So thats an aussie trailer hitch? (the handle part that lifts on the trailer hitch) hahaha learn something new every day with danger studio!

[@DangarMarine]

I've never seen a trailer hitch that isn't like that. Can you post a link to a picture to the style you use?

[@stanpatterson5033]

Hi Stu, this is a typical North American style tongue ball receiver. www.loadrite.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/p-17671-01.jpg . Various manufactures make them. We have several sizes of hitch ball, according to the load range you plan to pull, so the trailer tongues would be heavier or lighter construction. If you go to what I call "extreme heavy" ball-hitch arrangement, you can find a variation on the design that you have in Aus., but that is somewhat rare, found in commercial setups where roofing contractors haul tarpots for roofing (just as one example). Next stop after the ball-hitch is the pintle hook.

[@gwebster6600]

Your American hitches are completely illegal here in oz. There the first thing we have to change if we import a boat and trailer from the state's.

[@dirtyharry6741]

Hawkesbury 👌

[@WilliamBates-xk6mt]

i bet they do . been watching a few videos thanks hey the anchor vid was great lmbo

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks mate, glad you've been enjoying the vids. :)

[@MartinL1958]

That’s my problem!!! Can’t see the naked trailer when reversing then get flustered when I continually fluff it. The ‘“right/left hand down” toward the mirror tip is going to save me! I love your videos Stu. Thanks so very much!

[@DangarMarine]

You're welcome mate. Adding a bicycle flag to the trailer really helps with that too.

[@420BassIt]

Would like to get a boat soon, I have no experience with them at all. Seeing you use a little corolla was good to see as I have the same car and I'm glad I don't need an upgrade haha.

[@jenkodiesel5768]

Hi mate, thank you because you gave me confidence to tackle a four stroke Yamaha head change. I just recon you probably should have mentioned the handbrake, even though it would be stating the obvious. Just mentioning it, not being critical. Cheers ,Darryl.

[@DangarMarine]

You're dead right, that occurred to me today too. I always miss something. Thanks for pointing it out. :)

[@thegmork5909]

I had real problems getting my boat off its trailer and into the water. The rollers have flat spots on them and I did not want to get down too far and get the car wheels wet.. That was 6 months ago and I still have not gotten it into the water >.> I'm somewhat scared of trying again hahaha. Also, I needed a new battery so, that's good. After watching this I think I'll be able to try again. I'll have to use the motor to reverse the boat off, I did not think of that the first time. Thank you for the vid :)

[@DangarMarine]

You can replace the rollers separately, but don't be shy of going in a little deeper and even hitting the brakes to give the boat a little shove off the trailer. Be sure it's tied on to the trailer though!

[@thegmork5909]

I would replace them, but it's a big fiberglass boat and I have no idea how I would get it off the trailer on dry land. I can have a better look once I get it off and into the water.

[@kenk8215]

Well....did you ever get it in the water?

[@austra2005]

Hi, I love your videos, I see them all, they are very helping, In this one I would have liked you to explain why you crossed the safety chains, because that is somewhat impotant, keep on going with your vids they are the best, greetings too everyone

[@pacman4568]

LOL try that on the Knab Rock Mumbles South Wales UK on a slightly windy day Oh My Lord you'll be putting holes in your boat in no time. I wish I lived where you are looks fantastic.

[@DangarMarine]

It isn't a bad spot for boat, and co-incidentally in New South Wales. :)

[@ronpowell2373]

A suggestion that came to me while watching this - how about a what to look for in a trailer- say when you are buying a boat and trailer - what to look at , check out , what is a nice to have, what could be used to negotiate a bit on price etc. Some things I have found - the longer the trailer. the easier it is to reverse (but they cut the corners more)I like a plank for a walkway on the trailer- safer than walking on most boat ramp slime to get to the bow, plus you don't have to lean over the trailer to get to the bow.'Rated' D shackles are now required for the safety chains. There are plenty of stories about the Queensland cops having a feast fining people from interstate last Christmas.Light boards - plus or minus? (plus to me)How about doing the same video but for using a break back trailer?So far I have watched just about all your videos. Although I can do most of the stuff already, the videos show me how what I know already is applied to boat work. Thanks for the great, simple and clear instructional videos, they are really better than a lot of stuff on the web!

[@DangarMarine]

Hey Ron, I think it is a good suggestion to do some follow-up trailer videos, particularly on what to look for when buying a trailer. Brakes - no brakes, built in lights - light board, two axles - one axle etc, etc. Classic about people getting fined for not having the yellow rated shackles. Can't say I've ever seen a shackle fail from being overloaded. Pins come out and they corrode, but it takes some serious force to break them! I know what you mean about having learned most things as you get older. It's nice though to be able to start putting the pieces of the puzzle together and use those skills in a new context. Often it is just about being given the confidence to know that you can tackle something different using things you have learned in the past. Thanks for watching, Stu.

[@jamesstewart5371]

If you have the time, spend an hour at your local boat launch and watch others .It can be very enternaining. Like the time I saw a wowen get out of a boat before it was tied off . One leg in the boat the other on the dock. The boat pushed away she did the splits and down she went , splash ! Luckily the only thing hurt was her pride.

[@patrickboxsell1365]

Is that an alfa romeo badge on the bow of the green machine? For extra speed I presume

[@calebmarshall3356]

In the NT almost every drives up the trailer I've actually seen some one rip the leg off there out board cause they just drove up in a rush hooked it up an pulled the boat straight up the ramp very steep ramp mind you ripped it clean off and he hadn't trimmed his outboard up

[@garypugh1153]

wish my new 2 seat speed boat looked as good as yours. .. ha!

[@DangarMarine]

She's a beauty!

[@DaebakMonkey]

Dang. Wish I knew this before. I started on an 18 foot boat.

[@DangarMarine]

+DaebakMonkey Pretty big boat to cut your teeth on!

[@DaebakMonkey]

Yeah. It was the launch of the 1970 Century Buccaneer 18 my mom, dad, and I restored. Powered by a 1985 VRO Johnson 90hp your videos help me get unseized and running!

[@cs512tr]

cockatoo wants in on your video mate :)

[@DangarMarine]

You're not wrong, he's a noisy bugger!

[@alanfox270]

Try this simple method of steering. The direction the bottom of the steering wheel turns will be the direction the rear of the trailer will turn. So when your backing put your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel and move your hand in the direction that the rear of the trailer needs to go.

[@DangarMarine]

Good tip!

[@alangrant5278]

Pontoons are awesome. We had one at the lock ramp. The pylon got damaged in a storm. 5 years ago. Still waiting for it to get fixed. Bloody councils. Hunpf.

[@kman-mi7su]

Good tutorial, I don't know if you mentioned when backing the boat down the ramp using a car don't go so far the exhaust pipe submerges. I will stall the car out.

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks mate. A health car will generally just blow bubbles but if it's salt water you can certainly expect to have some corrosion problems down the track!

[@roders111]

I've been really enjoying your videos mate, just wondering if you have a procedure for limiting the damage that submerging the trailer in salt water does. I imagine a good hose down would go a long way, but do the wheel bearings become an issue?

[@mulespur4806]

I always wanted a tow ball hitch like that but in the US can't find them.

[@Kayesyouteeteeon]

Thanks Stu, watched this a few times now, I got my boat Licence this year and my first tinny and have learnt so much from you from these vids. Was wondering when fitting a Bimmy in my tinny would it be better to have it folding forwards so when it is down it doesn't get in the way of the controls and drivers seat? Cheers

[@DangarMarine]

You're welcome Kay, and congratulations on getting your license. With regards to which way the bimini folds it really depends on how the boat is setup. Whichever way suits your particular layout is the best way to go.

[@Kayesyouteeteeon]

@@DangarMarine Thanks, ended up folding it forwards so I can still get my anchor from the well., is it common to knock some top end off your speed with the bimi up?

[@charlotte05060]

Hi thanks for the tips. One question I have for retrieving the boat. Would you recommend driving onto the trailer with an older style glass boat without the V guide for the bow? Cheers Aaron.

[@DangarMarine]

The V guide is pretty important for driving on to a trailer as if the hull if off centre and rides against the metal brackets for the rollers it could do a fair bit of damage to the fibre glass. Fibre glass boats are also very heavy so they can be almost impossible to man handle into position once they are on the trailer.

[@captdonformulapacific228]

Hi Stu, I have a question. Would attaching anode's to the boat trailer be a good idea? I launch in fresh and salt water and my trailer is steel. Would using zink and magnesium for different water types on the trailer help in reducing electrolysis-rust? Thank you

[@DangarMarine]

Anodes only help with electrolysis, not rust, and the trailer isn't in the water long enough for electrolysis to have any effect so I wouldn't do it.

[@davidd8435]

Do you recommend unplugging the lights from the trailer when launching if water gets in the housing will it blow the bulb?

[@DangarMarine]

I never do, I've found the waterproof ones to be quite well sealed. We use the trailer many times a week and they have lasted for years so far.

[@joey243win]

Gets better with the Alfa "Biscone" haha

[@gordonpeden6234]

Tip #1 If there's nothing good on TV drive down to your local boat ramp, deck chair, sunnies, beer, and watch the passing parade of unpractised trailer reversers, shouting and doing their block, arguing with the missus. Great fun!

[@scatter1390]

Yeah, we do it at Port Welshpool ramp a fair bit. And yep, it's a great laugh. We often get in and help the people who are struggling and need a hand (lf we're not too pissed and busy laughing) I once watched an older couple in a VW Kombi. She reversed the trailer in, he then proceeded to drive the boat on while yelling and screaming at the poor woman, non stop! The silly old goat was far too busy abusing the crap out of her he forgot to engage the pawl and crank the handle on the winch after leaning over the bow and hooking it up. He then told her to drive out while he sat back in the seat. I think she must have been a bit miffed with the old bastard 'cos she gave the old Kombi a gutful of revs and dumped the clutch. I think you can picture what happened next........!! Man, we all fell over that day l tells ya !!

[@kman-mi7su]

I'm a trucker here in the US the trailer cutting the corner is known as "off tracking". Rather, a trailer, especially a long one, does not follow the same path as the tractor or tow vehicle.

[@DangarMarine]

Interesting, had never heard that term. Thanks!

[@kman-mi7su]

@@DangarMarine Professional truck driver terminology LOL! Ask one of the "lorry" drivers over there I'm sure they have heard of it.

[@kman-mi7su]

@@DangarMarine Keep up the good work on the videos btw. I used to own a sailboat years back. Sold it because I never had time to take it out and it sat on a trailer in my driveway mostly. Now I'm a little older and near retirement from my job and I'm looking to get a boat something that I could use on a river and ocean if I choose to go out there. Your videos are inspiring me to own and enjoy boating again all the way here in the US.

[@DangarMarine]

A think boating is a great retirement project. My dad is a few months off retirement and is starting to get involved with the trawler restoration.

[@kman-mi7su]

@@DangarMarine I agree, I don't have any experience as a boat mechanic like you, but I'm looking for a fixer upper as I have extensive experience as a DIYer on my cars and Mack truck over the years. It will be a challenge because of the lack of experience, but I find that fun, learning as I go. I'm not looking for a boat the size of that trawler you bought though, talk about me being over my head. I would be if I bought that as a project. Definitely not a project for a novice.

[@clearingbaffles]

At 0:30ish is that the mating call of the O-no bird When landing it calls out O-no O-no as it’s legs are 25cm long BUT it’s testies hang down 50cm Thanx from the left coast near the Krapitol of California

[@Rattletrap2]

It would have been easy to clean that side mirror if you had the steering wheel on the correct side of the car! lol

[@torbenliennielsen82]

Nicely done. How long is The Green Machine ?

[@DangarMarine]

Thanks Torben. The Green Machine is 4.6 metres long.

[@philipbrailey]

I personally never get my rear wheels wet. And also I never take my eyes off the trailer, except with the odd 360 degrees head turn.

[@Gdawon]

I know this is an older video but do you have any tips of could you do a video of solo ramp launching at a ramp with no pontoons, in weather and swell conditions. This is typically my own scenario in fairly basic ramps with no pontoons. I'm struggling tbh.

[@DangarMarine]

Launching in swell on your own is hard as without someone else to back the boat away from the trailer it is always going to be tricky. A long painter on the front of the boat will help but it would be difficult to do safely.

[@ianmorris8534]

Hi, about three or four minutes in you mentioned a certain way of waving your arm to signal to your driver, is there a code that is internationaly understood, or is it something between you and a mate?

[@DangarMarine]

There may be a standard but I'm not aware of it.

[@markolav7017]

Stu.what are council doing at Parsley Bay ramp ? I noticed it's closed off..

[@DangarMarine]

Hi mate, according to the council website, "The existing ramp will be removed and replaced with a new ramp that meets NSW Boating Ramp Facility Guidelines. The new ramp will still have 4 lanes, however these will be wider. A new pontoon will provide better access for boat passengers." Do you get down to Parsley Bay often?

[@markolav7017]

We used to use that ramp a lot in the 80s and early nineties...on the central coast now so occasionally get down to Brooklyn if heading to Cowan Creek etc..Its a great facility and one of the better ramps as you know...not sure why they would modify it ??

[@generalpatton71]

Is that trailer tongue style popular in Australia? I live in the US and I've never seen anything like that.

[@DangarMarine]

Yeah, it's pretty standard I would say. What bit of it seems different?

[@FutureAirways2]

Dangar Marine prolly the round head n straight latch, mine is flat with a 90 degree moving latch on top. idk just a guess well good video

[@kman-mi7su]

I was thinking the same, I've never seen a setup like that here in the US. I'm sure legal requirements specify it different than here.

[@Rattletrap2]

I am in Canada and I have been around a lot of boats all my life and i have never seen a latching system anything like that! Very interesting!

[@markdunbar8219]

Is the tattoo 2 fish for pieces? I have a simler one on my chest 🤔 just saying 😁 thanks for the info last time I put a trailer in the water was 30 yrs ago a rib for diving another great vid thanks from the Uk 👍🏻🇬🇧 hope your hands are healing well 👍🏻

[@DangarMarine]

Yes, Pieces too. :)

[@gregoryvrooman9546]

leave a twist in the strap and it will not vibrate

[@MinecraftPE55]

Would you be fine towing a tinnie on a 03 ford falcon?

[@DangarMarine]

Yes. Only issue can be traction on a slipper boat ramp at low tide.

[@davidd8435]

Are the bunk boards on the trailer supposed to have movement or are they supposed to be tight?

[@DangarMarine]

They are generally tight.

[@davidd8435]

Dangar Marine Thanks.

[@johnaudio2024]

What filter do you use on your audio, it will sound better without it!

[@DangarMarine]

Yeah, these old videos have terrible audio. It was so bad I used to put a noise filter on it but that made it sound very artificial. I think it's much better these days, I should re-do some of these old ones.

[@johnaudio2024]

The new ones are way better ;) The noise filter makes it sound 8 bit old game sound lol. What edit software do you use? maybe I can make you a preset for the voce processing. Keep up the good video's! I'm a boat owner and sound engineer, so let me know if I can help you out audio wise. Cheers!

[@MrCalifornia1234]

I launch my boat by myself with my two young children, so I declare myself an expert. I also don’t appreciate you telling everyone all these tips. One of the best things about going to a ramp is all the comedy of incompetence.

[@DangarMarine]

Boat ramps are always entertaining!

[@pacman4568]

Ahh you seem to have forgotten the days when you were inexperienced and every one was laughing at you..

[@TheDanielSnipz]

Also nice hair cut :)

[@DangarMarine]

+TheDanielSnipz All ready for summer now!

[@AISLE3B]

Hi - Do you have trouble with your trailer lights not working because water gets into them?Regards

[@DangarMarine]

The ones we have at the moment seem to be really well sealed as no water has got into them at all. If yours are leaking take a look at the seals and maybe put some silicone grease on them to help them stay water tight.

[@ProjecthuntanFish]

Trailer lights always stop working on a boat trailer. the way around it is to mount your lights on short pieces of PVC pipe and make a wiring harness that runs to them. Install some rod holders at the rear of the boat to place the lights in when trailering the boat. When you get to the boat ramp remove the lights and unplug the harness, wrap up the wires around the lights and put in vehicle. Im using a set up like this that I made about 12 years ago and they always work when I plug them in.

[@AISLE3B]

Thanks for the reply - I may give that a try.

[@vrummer1]

They see me corollin'

[@nickthirgood3882]

They hatin'!

[@MrSkychef]

Any chance you could make a video on how to launch and retrieve a boat with a tilt trailer, the clips on youtube are not very helpful

[@alexpearson8481]

Don’t forget; unplug your trailer wiring before going in the water.

[@RyanBess]

How heavy is your boat. Looking to tow a boat with an suv

[@DangarMarine]

I'm not sure exactly how heavy it is, but aluminium boats aren't that heavy compared to fibreglass boats. I can easily tow this one with a small Carolla.

[@CrimeVid]

There is only one thing to know about putting a boat in the water from a trailer that is important, before braking to shoot the boat off the trailer... tie the painter to something on the trailer !!

[@garypugh1153]

geuss we learn the hard way. i untied my speedboat too soon and it slid off the trailer on the concrete ramp. what a dumbass. now i know unhook whem ready to go in water. i 'm learning to do it with no help. its only a 11ft boat. thanx

[@DangarMarine]

We all make mistakes when we are learning, in a few years time you'll be watching others go through the same thing.