Checklist - Putting the Boat on the Water
On the Ramp
- Directions to our standard locations are all under the "Join Us" button.
- Make sure that your guests do NOT park in the trailer spaces. Trailer spaces are designated at each ramp, and are typically double long.
- Line up your tow vehicle with trailer on the launch ramp ready to back into the water
- Check to make sure both plugs are installed [There is one under the center rear seat (Stiletto) or center floor next to captains chair (T22), and one at the traditional point, at the back of the boat, above the propeller]
- Make sure that the "flush hose plug" is installed. It is located on the transom at the rear of the boat. If the black plug is not screwed tight, the engine WILL overheat.
- Make sure that the key is available, or in the ignition
- Remove the two rear straps, (between boat and trailer) put the straps in the BOAT (NOT IN YOUR CAR). On the boat, store the straps behind the captain's chair (Optional use of rear straps for short distance towing)
- DO NOT Disconnect the trailer winch from the boat front tow point (until the boat is backed into the water)
- Load any additional gear or people that you are taking out with you onto the boat
- Verify that you have a fire extinguisher in the area by the captains feet. Do not start the boat without a fire extinguisher on board.
- Verify that you have the white throwable flotation device by the captains chair.
- Verify that you have an orange safety flag, and a PFD (life jacket) for every person expected on board.
- DO NOT DISCONNECT THE TOW STRAP OR SAFETY CHAIN FROM THE BOAT UNTIL THE BOAT IS IN THE WATER.
- Back the tow vehicle into the water. Your vehicle rear tires are probably just at the water line at the correct position.
- Disconnect the trailer winch from the boat front tow point. Also disconnect the safety strap.
- Wait for the boat to start, and successfully back off of the trailer
- Back the trailer up another foot if the boat has trouble separating from the trailer
- Park and lock the tow vehicle in approved "trailer" parking spaces
- Stiletto only - Turn on the electric system - There is a large battery switch under in the storage area under the passenger seat. Crawl into the space, and you will see the Orange switch on the right wall. Turn it from "off" to "both" battery position.
- Check the oil. Open engine compartment to access dip stick.
- While on the ramp, turn on the bilge, before launching, to clear all water from the bilge while the boat is on the extreme angle of the ramp.
- Turn on the blower for a minute before starting the engine
- Open the engine compartment, and check for gasoline fumes. Do not start the engine if there is gas in the bilge, or fumes in the engine compartment
- Start the engine, back off of the the trailer, and proceed to the dock.