2011 MasterCraft Trailer Manual

It is extremely important that a minimum of five percent(5%) and a maximum of ten percent (10%) of the total weighton the trailer be felt at the trailer coupling ball when thetongue is parallel to the ground. A bathroom scale can beused for this determination.For example, if the gross weight of the trailer, boat andgear is 3,000 pounds, the weight on the tongue should notbe more than 300 pounds, but not less than 150. (Someauto manufacturers say that tongue weight should not exceed200 pounds when using a weight-carrying, bumper-mountedhitch with full-sized cars.) Check the tow vehicle owner’s manual.The importance of an adequate download on the hitch ball cannot be over-stated.The Trailer HitchThere are two basic types of trailerhitches: a weight-carrying hitch and a weight-distributionhitch. A weight-carrying hitch is recommendedfor use with a MasterCraft boat and trailer.However, weight-distributing (equalizing) hitchesmay be used. The chain must be vertical (straightup and down) under the pulling load where theactuator is extended. Excessive tongue weight beyondthe actuator rating must be avoided as it willreduce the brake performance and could damagethe actuator. Always follow the hitch manufacturer’sinstructions. Before deciding upon which typeof hitch to use, also consult the automobile manufactureron recommendations for the tow vehicle.Be sure that the total weight of the trailerboatrig does not exceed the hitch’s load capacity.The maximum weight it can handle isstamped on the hitch. Also, be surethe hitch ball is the correct size tomatch the coupler on the trailer. Thecorrect ball diameter is marked on thetrailer coupler. The hitch should alsoprovide a place for attaching the trailer’ssafety cables—two rings or holeson either side of the hitch ball.A truck or van using a step bumper as the hitch platform will need to have safety cableattachments such as eye-bolts, as well as a hitch ball, which has been installed accordingto the Society of Automotive Engineers; SAE J684 Standard. Installing a light or heavydutyhitch can be a major undertaking. The hitch and its installation must meet the SAEJ684 Standard. It is recommended that the job be done by a professional. An authorizedMasterCraft dealer can offer advice.To ensure that the boat is riding properly on the trailer supports, the trailer should be ina level position when hitched to the tow vehicle. The recommended height of the hitch ball,according to the National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (“NMMA”), is 18 to 20 inchesto the top of the ball from the ground. More importantly, failure to adjust to this height mayprematurely activate the surge brakes.MasterCraft Trailer Manual • Page 4