Specifications

SECTION NINE
YOUR TRAILER AND TRAILERING
Your trailer is a very important part of your new Clipper. It requires some maintenance and caution
in its everyday operation. The attention you exercise in hitching, towing and maintenance will be
more than offset by the peace of mind while you are traveling down the highway. On the other hand,
if you are negligent in any of these areas, you will be endangering the safety of your boat, your car
and yourself.
The trailer that was supplied by the factory with your new Clipper was especially designed for
launching and retrieving, while still not sacrificing safety or performance on the highway. Trailer
hitches come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Most trailer supply stores can install an adequate
type hitch for your vehicle. Portable bumper type clamp-on hitches are definitely not recommended.
It is worth the effort to invest in a good, solid hitch that is either welded or bolted to the frame. The
trailer hitch itself should match the size of the ball hitch. Never use a ball hitch that is too small.
Solid steel ball hitches are preferable. The coupling hitch on your trailer has a locking pin to prevent
opening due to vibration. Lubricate the hitch for longer wear and quieter turns. The trailer is
equipped with safety chain. This should be attached directly to the frame, not the bumper.
The total weight of your boat, including all equipment stored on board, should never exceed the rec-
ommended weight shown on the side of the trailer. Proper distribution of the load is of vital impor-
tance. Too much weight on the hitch will cause the back end of the towing vehicle to be down, caus-
ing headlights to shine up in the air. Too little or negative weight on the hitch, and the trailer will
sway or fishtail. The solution to proper tongue weight is to move the forward bow stand forward or
aft to correct your problem. Your trailer should already have the bow stand positioned correctly, as
they are pre-set at the factory. Caution is necessary when towing any trailer. The heavier the rig, the
more time required to accelerate, pass and stop. Curbs and obstructions should be given a wide
clearance. While trailering your Clipper, the law requires an additional side view mirror of sufficient
size so that you can see a person standing 150 feet directly behind you. Towing laws will vary from
state to state, but California law requires the following:
1. Maximum speed limit of 55 m.p.h.
2. Operation only in the right hand lane except to pass a vehicle moving slower than your allowed
speed. You may change lanes to pass and return to the extreme right hand lane immediately.
3. Two side view mirrors so you are able to see a point 150 feet directly behind you.
4. Brakes on any trailer with a gross weight (including boat, equipment inside and trailer) of 3,000
pounds or more.
5. Lights including two tail lights, stop lights, turn signals, license plate light and clearance lights.
6. An adequate piece of chain from the trailer to the towing vehicle.
7. License plate with current stickers and registration carried in the towing vehicle.
8. Maximum width of eight feet. Be sure side guides are moved back in, and locking bolts tightened if
your guides are adjustable.
TRAILER MAINTENANCE: It is recommended that lights be removed before dunking in water,
especially if it is salt water. If you are determined to launch your trailer with the lights hooked up, at
least unplug the socket at the towing vehicle and thoroughly hose the trailer and lights off after use.
Lights and sockets will undoubtedly corrode and will need to. be replaced if put in water. Always
carry some spare bulbs and try coating the sockets well with vaseline. There are some new fixtures