Specifications

trailer tips & teChniQues
With a boat trailer in tow,
an operator will be driving down
the road with a vehicle combina-
tion that is longer, heavier and
sometimes wider and taller than
the tow vehicle. This means the
operator should make a few ad-
justments to normal driving prac-
tices to compensate for the dif-
ferences. Here are a few tips:
• Take a shakedown cruise.
Before making the first ma-
jor trip or first trip to the lake
with a MasterCraft trailer, make at least one short trial run to become familiar with its
handling characteristics. Be sure everything is working properly.
• Slow down. There is less strain on the tow vehicle, trailer and boat at moderate to
slow speeds. Also, many states have lower speed limits for vehicles towing trailers.
Driving at moderate speeds will place less strain the tow vehicle and the trailer. Trailer
instability (sway) is more likely to occur as speed increases. Particular attention needs
to be given to slowing when traveling over bumpy roads and railroad crossings.
• Allow extra time and space. You’ll need more of both when passing and stopping.
• Avoid sudden steering maneuvers. These may create sway or undue side force on
the trailer. To control swaying caused by air pressure changes and wind buffeting when
larger vehicles pass from either direction, release the accelerator pedal to slow down.
Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel.
• Allow considerably more distance for stopping than you would if driving the tow
vehicle without the trailer. There is considerably more weight to be maneuvered, and
even though your trailer is equipped with a braking system, it is highly likely that ad-
ditional room will be needed in order to execute slowing or full stops.
• Check the rear view mirrors. If not already equipped with them, install outside rear
view mirrors on both sides of the tow vehicle. Make it a habit to check the mirrors at
frequent intervals to be sure the trailer and boat are riding properly.
• Swing wider. Trailer wheels are closer to the inside of turns than the wheels on the
tow vehicle. This means swinging wider at curves and corners.
• Pass with extra care. Signal well in advance and make sure you allow extra distance
to clear the vehicle you are passing before you pull back into the lane. Pass on level
terrain with plenty of clearance. Avoid passing on steep up- or down-grades. Downshift
as necessary to improve acceleration or speed maintenance. When passing on narrow
roads be careful to avoid soft shoulders. Running on soft shoulders could cause the
trailer to jack-knife or go out of control.
• Do not attempt to control trailer sway by applying the tow vehicle brakes. Especially
avoid jamming on the brakes hard. Generally, this type of action makes the sway worsen.
• Pay attention to wind. Be prepared for sudden changes in air pressure and/or wind
buffeting when larger vehicles pass from either direction. Slow down a little and keep
a firm hand on the steering wheel.
• Conserve fuel. Wind resistance against the boat and trailer can reduce gas mileage
significantly, especially at higher speeds.
• Avoid sudden stops and starts. Even though the 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 gas mile-
age and put less strain on the tie-downs, etc.
MasterCra Trailer Manual • Page 20