Boat Launch Repairs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Launching a boat can be a stressful and nerve-wracking experience, especially if you're doing it alone. However, with the right preparation and knowledge, you can easily fix a boat launch and get your vessel smoothly into the water. This process involves several steps, from preparing your boat and gear to positioning your vehicle and trailer, and finally guiding the boat off the trailer and into the water.

Checklists and preparation

Preparation is key to a successful boat launch. It is important to be thorough and diligent in your pre-launch checks, as missing a step can have tragic results. Even experienced boaters can make mistakes, so it is always good to have a pre-launch checklist and go through it carefully. It is also a good idea to have someone else double-check your work.

At Home:

• Check that your boat motor is in good operating shape.
• Pack all your gear, including trailering equipment, boat gear, safety equipment, food and water, and any other necessities for your trip.
• Ensure your boat plug is properly installed.

At the Boat Launch Site:

• Find a staging area away from the ramp and begin your final pre-launch preparations.
• Fix your antenna to its upright position.
• Turn on your battery switches.
• Load your safety equipment and all other personal and essential gear for your trip.
• Tie on your boat fenders.
• Remove all safety straps and tie-downs, leaving the winch strap loosely connected.
• Double-check that your drain plug is installed properly.
• Check that the key is in the ignition and bump the key into the "start" position to ensure your battery is not dead.
• Attach fenders to the dock side of the boat and remove the transom tie-down straps.
• Attach dock lines to the bow and stern cleats.
• Unplug the trailer lights from the tow vehicle to prevent water damage to the bulbs.
• Choose the "Leeward" side of the ramp (the side where the wind is blowing away from the dock).
• Check the weather forecast for the area and bring a full set of extra boat supplies in case of inclement weather.

Backing Down the Ramp:

• Move your tow vehicle into position to back straight down the ramp.
• Reverse slowly down the ramp so you have time to correct if needed.
• Back down until the stern of the boat starts to float.
• Put your vehicle in park with the parking brake on and release the trailer winch and safety chain.
• Use a bow line, give the boat a little push, and slide it slowly off the trailer to float in the water.

Parking brakes and safety chains

When launching a boat, it is important to use parking brakes and safety chains to prevent accidents. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to ensure a safe and successful boat launch:

Parking Brakes:

• Always engage the parking brake when launching your boat, especially on steep ramps. This provides an extra measure of security and prevents the vehicle from rolling backward.
• Set the parking brake before putting the vehicle in park. This reduces stress on the transmission and helps ensure a smooth transition.
• For automatic transmissions, apply the parking brake before shifting into park, especially on an incline. The weight of the vehicle and boat on the ramp can strain the transmission's parking pawl, leading to potential damage.
• Consider using wheel chocks as an additional safety measure. They can be more effective than a parking brake, especially in slippery conditions.
• Regularly maintain your parking brake to keep it in good working condition. Rusted or frozen cables are common issues that can render the brake ineffective.
• Be cautious when dealing with inclines, even when parking your vehicle. Repeatedly engaging the parking brake on an incline can cause wear and tear, leading to potential transmission issues.

Safety Chains:

• Safety chains are essential for securing your boat to the trailer during launch. They provide a backup connection in case the winch strap fails.
• Choose the appropriate safety chain for your trailer, considering factors such as length, break strength, and hook type.
• Ensure the safety chain is long enough to allow for proper attachment to the trailer and boat.
• Keep the safety chain attached until you are fully backed down to the water's edge. Only then should you consider unhooking it from the boat.
• When launching alone, use a long bow rope to secure the boat to the trailer winch stand before unhooking the safety chain. This provides an extra layer of security.

Boat ramp etiquette

Preparation and Staging:

• Complete all prep work, including loading gear and safety checks, in a designated staging area away from the ramp where other boaters are launching.
• Inspect your boat for any damage, ensure the key is in the ignition, and the drain plug is installed correctly.
• Check that all required safety equipment, including lines and fenders, is on board.
• Make sure the trailer coupler is securely connected to the ball hitch, and unplug the trailer lights to protect the bulbs from water damage.
• If it's your first time at a particular launch site, take a moment to inspect the ramp, dock, water depth, and traffic flow before launching.

Launching:

• Be efficient and quick during the launch. Have your crew assist you to make the process smoother.
• When backing down the ramp, do it slowly to allow time for corrections if the trailer deviates from a straight path.
• Once your boat is off the trailer, promptly pull your vehicle back up the ramp and park it in a designated area to avoid blocking the ramp for other boaters.
• If possible, have someone in the boat ready to start the engine and manoeuvre it away from the launch area.

Retrieval:

• When retrieving your boat, use a courtesy dock or tie up away from the launch area until your trailer is in position.
• Respect queues and avoid blocking the ramp with an unattended vessel or vehicle.
• After reloading the boat onto the trailer, secure it with the winch and safety chain, then move to the staging area to finish unloading and securing your trailer.

General Courtesy:

• Follow the instructions of the boat ramp attendant and be considerate of other boaters' time and space.
• Limit unnecessary conversations that may distract others from their launch preparations or hold up the queue.
• Ensure you are familiar with any specific rules or etiquette that may vary from one boat ramp to another.

Inspecting the boat access

• Check for underwater hazards: Before entering the water, carefully inspect the launch area for any underwater obstacles or potholes that could damage your boat or trailer. Look for any signs of rocks, sand, or gravel that may cause issues.
• Assess the steepness of the access: Evaluate whether the boat access is too steep for a safe launch. If the access is primarily made of sand or gravel, consider finding an alternative launch point with a more gradual incline.
• Evaluate your vehicle's capabilities: Ensure that your tow vehicle has sufficient power and traction to both put the boat in the water and pull it out. Gravel launches can be particularly challenging and may chip the fiberglass and paint of your boat.
• Check for sufficient traction: Be mindful of the traction available at the launch site. Gravel or sandy surfaces may cause your vehicle's tires to lose traction, making it difficult to launch or retrieve your boat.
• Inspect for overhead obstacles: Look for any low-hanging branches or overhead obstacles that could interfere with your boat or trailer during the launch. Ensure there is adequate clearance for a safe passage.
• Check lighting conditions: If you plan to launch or retrieve your boat in low-light conditions, ensure that the boat access area is well-lit or bring appropriate lighting equipment to avoid any hazards.
• Assess the width of the access: Confirm that the boat access is wide enough to accommodate your trailer and boat. Allow for sufficient space to manoeuvre and avoid any obstacles during the launch.
• Check for signage and regulations: Look for any posted signs or regulations regarding the use of the boat access. There may be specific rules or guidelines that you need to follow to ensure a safe and responsible launch.

By thoroughly inspecting the boat access and considering these factors, you can help ensure a smooth, safe, and successful launch without causing damage to your boat or trailer.

Practising beforehand

If you're launching a boat by yourself, it's a good idea to practice using your mirrors as much as possible. The best boat launchers never have to turn around to look where they are. Using only your mirrors can also make the process much quicker and more efficient. Practise backing up a trailer in a large, empty parking lot. At first, it may feel uncomfortable, but with practice, you'll become an expert.

If you're launching with a partner, it's a good idea to practice communicating and coordinating with each other. One person will be driving the tow vehicle, while the other is in the boat as it's being lowered into the water. The person in the boat can also help direct the driver so that the trailer lines up with the ramp. Practising together will help you become a well-oiled machine and ensure a smooth and efficient boat launch.

Before attempting a launch, it's also a good idea to do some research and inspect the boat access. Low water levels or underwater hazards can make a simple launch very difficult. Make sure the ramp is not too steep and that the water is deep enough for your boat. Check that your tow vehicle has enough power and traction to put the boat in the water and pull it out.

Frequently asked questions