Specifications
• Attach the surge breakaway cable to the tow vehicle, making
sure there is enough slack for tight turns.
• Attach the safety cables.
• Connect the trailer’s seven-wire connector to the seven-wire con-
nector of the tow vehicle and check the operation of the lights.
Trailer Tips & Techniques
With a boat trailer in tow, you are operating a vehicle combination
that is longer, heavier and sometimes wider and taller than your tow ve-
hicle. This means you will have to make a few adjustments in your normal
driving practices to compensate for the difference. Here are a few tips
to help you enjoy trailering:
• Take a shakedown cruise. Before you make your rst major trip
or rst trip to the lake with your trailer, make at least one short
trial run to familiarize yourself with its handling characteristics. Be
sure everything is working properly.
• Slow down. There is less strain on your tow vehicle, trailer and
boat at moderate to slow speeds. Also, many states have lower
speed limits for vehicles towing trailers.
• Allow extra time and space. You’ll need more of both when pass-
ing and stopping.
• Check the rear view mirrors. If not already equipped, install out-
side rear view mirrors on both sides of the tow vehicle. Make it a
habit to check the mirrors at frequent intervals to be sure your
trailer and boat are riding properly.
• Swing wider. Trailer wheels are closer to the inside of turns than
the wheels on your tow vehicle. This means you should swing wider
at curves and corners.
• Pass with extra care. With a trailer in tow, you’ll need more time
and distance to accelerate, get around a slower vehicle and return
to the right lane.
• Watch the wind. Be prepared for sudden changes in air pres-
sure and/or wind buffeting when larger vehicles pass you from
either direction. Slow down a little and keep a rm hand on the
steering wheel.
• Conserve fuel. Wind resistance against the boat and trailer can
reduce your gas mileage signicantly, especially at higher speeds.
• Avoid sudden stops and starts. Even though your trailer has
brakes, a sudden stop can cause it to skid, slide or even jack-knife.
(Be especially careful to avoid the necessity for quick stops while
turning.) Smooth, gradual starts and stops will improve your gas
mileage and put less strain on your tie-downs, etc.
• Signal your intentions. Well before you stop, turn, change lanes
trailer techniques
MasterCraft Trailers - Page 20