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Boat Trailers- Towing Your Boat the Right Way
- Mark Cosgrove
- May 4
- 3 min read
Updated: May 8
Whether it’s a short run down to the ramp or a longer trip away, towing is something most people don’t think too much about... until something goes wrong.
#1 Start at the hitch
First thing to get right is your coupling and tow ball.
There are a few common sizes. 1 7/8”, 50mm, and 2”. They are not interchangeable.
If the coupling doesn’t match the tow ball properly, there’s a real risk of it coming off under load.
Make sure it drops on cleanly, locks in properly, and is secured before you head off.
Photos show an example of where you might find size stamps.
Mercury Bay Marine also sell interchangeable towballs which definitely makes life easier.
#2 Towbar tongue – worth a look
A lot of modern tow bars have removable tongues. They’re convenient, but they can also hide corrosion.
In coastal areas especially, we see these rust from the inside out. It’s worth pulling the tongue out every now and then, giving it a clean, and checking for any signs of rust or weakening.
It’s an easy thing to overlook.
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#3 Tyres – more than a quick glance
Trailer tyres don’t get used as often as vehicle tyres, which can actually make them more prone to issues.
Before heading away, check for:
Bulging or uneven shape
Cracks or splitting in the sidewalls
Correct pressure
Insure there is no wire poking out
Longer trips will quickly show up any weaknesses.
Damaged /perished tyre.
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#4 If your boat trailers been sitting, take a short run
If your boat hasn’t been used for a while, it’s worth doing a short tow locally first.
If you hear a rumbling or growling noise from the trailer, that’s often wheel bearings starting to fail. It’s not something to ignore. When bearings go, they tend to go completely.
Its also impoertnt not to over grease the bearing buddies as it can push the seal out from the back and let water inside.
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#5 Rollers – a quick check
Trailer rollers can sometimes rotate or flip around, especially after loading.
Also damaged split pins or rusty washers can cause the rollers to fall off
When that happens, they don’t support the hull properly and can create pressure points and damage or scratch your hull.
It only takes a quick look before launching to make sure everything is sitting as it should.
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#6 Tie-downs – not just good practice
Your boat should always be properly secured to the trailer. Not just for safety, but because it’s a legal requirement.
At a minimum:
A secure winch rope and safety chain at the bow
Tie-down straps at the stern holding the boat firmly to the trailer
Loose or missing tie-downs can lead to movement on the road, damage to the boat, and in some cases fines or liability if something goes wrong.
It’s one of the simplest things to get right.
Some tie down products we stock at Mercury Bay Marine
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#7 Trailer security
It’s also worth thinking about security when the boat’s not in use.
A hitch lock, sensible parking, and even a wheel clamp for longer-term storage can make a big difference.
Unfortunately, trailers are an easy target if left unsecured.
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Final thought
Like most things in boating, it comes back to the basics.
A well-maintained trailer makes towing safer, easier, and a lot less stressful.
It also means when the weather lines up and the opportunity’s there, you’re not held back by something that could have been sorted earlier.
If you’re unsure about any part of your setup, or just want it checked over, bring it in to us at Mercury Bay Marine - We’re always happy to have a look.
If it’s really time for a new trailer we are also dealers and suppliers of the following brand and can quote suitable trailer options for your boat.
Get a quote on a Voyager Trailer
Get a quote on A GFAB Trailer
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