Specifications

A truck or van using a step bumper as the hitch platform will need to have safety
cable attachments such as eye-bolts, as well as a hitch ball, which has been installed
according to the Society of Automotive Engineers; SAE J684 Standard. Installing a
light or heavy-duty hitch can be a major undertaking. e hitch and its installation
must meet the SAE J684 Standard. It is recommended that the job be done by a
professional. An authorized MasterCraft dealer can offer advice.
To ensure that the boat is
riding properly on the trailer
supports, the trailer should
be in a level position when
hitched to the tow vehicle. e
recommended height of the
hitch ball, according to the Na-
tional Marine Manufacturer’s
Association (“NMMA”), is 18
to 20 inches to the top of the
ball from the ground. More im-
portantly, failure to adjust to
this height may prematurely
activate the surge brakes.
is can be corrected in a
number of different ways. For
example, air-pressure adjust-
able shock absorbers may be
installed on the tow vehicle, or
switch from a weight-carrying hitch to a weight-distributing hitch. Again, consult
with the tow-vehicle’s dealer or manufacturer.
In general, for Class 3 rigs (3,500 to 5,000 lbs.), a two-inch (2”) ball is the
requirement. For Class 4 (5,000 to 10,000 lbs.), a ball of either 2” or 2-5/16” will
be required.
If the total weight on the loaded trailer exceeds the load capacity of the hitch
on the tow vehicle, then the trailer may break free, which may result in serious
injury or death and/or property damage.
Safety Cables
e safety cables on a MasterCraft trailer provide added security that the
trailer will not become detached from the tow vehicle when underway. Before
each trip, ensure that the proper cables are correctly attached between the tow
vehicle and the trailer.
MasterCraft Trailer Manual • Page 9