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Captain’s Report
Trailering a PWC Safely
Trailering and launching a PWC demands special attention to stay safe on the road. This Captain’s Report offers a guide to PWC Trailering Pre-Launch safety check. Trailers and PWCs vary. Refer and follow the owner’s manuals for the trailer, PWC, and the tow vehicle for details on safety equipment and towing capacities.
One of the most important safety elements of all boating is planning, and the planning starts before you even leave your driveway.
It is very important to inspect the PWC and trailer. Be certain that everything is hooked up properly. Make sure that the winch latch is set.
Check to see if the ball joint lock is on, and that the chains and lights are hooked up securely.
Make sure the lights are working. Have someone go behind the trailer where they can see both tail lights. Have someone step on the brakes. The person behind the trailer will be able to see if they are working.
Again, make sure that the PWC is properly secured to the trailer.
For a PWC, there should also be a hold-down safety strap in the back to reduce the chance of the PWC bouncing on the trailer.
Machinery Inspection
One of the most important safety planning aspects is actually inspecting the machine before heading out on the water. Refer to the owner’s manual for exactly what should be checked, but there are a few basics.
Open the cover(s) to the machinery spaces, make sure there is not the smell or any signs of a fuel leak.
Make sure to check the oil level. Also check the color of the oil itself. The owner’s manual will explain what’s best, but oil should be changed at least once every season.
Another thing that is mandatory, is a proper fire extinguisher.
Make sure to have one and check that it has the green indicator (yellow arrow), either a dot or a stem like the one shown here, indicating that it is ready to use.
Inspect all of the control items as well. The steering should be moving freely.
Check the systems. Be sure the are no warning lights and that everything is functioning as it should.
Because PWCs use a jet drive propulsion system, a few precautions need to be taken. Using a flashlight, look inside the jet, and be sure that it is clear of any rocks or debris inside.
Check that the reverse gate is functioning freely.
Also, check that the jet nozzle is freely steering.
Last, and a very important thing to do, is to make sure to put the stern drain-plugs in place.
