6)Hobie Cat rudder blades are preset to break away from the locked down position at
tension should be rechecked. The tension may be adjusted by turning the 3/4" internal screw in the housing. The screw tensions an internal spring. Turn it clockwise to increase and counter clockwise
to decrease the tension.
TRAILERING
CAUTION: Boat and mast should be securely attached to trailer with adequate
LOADING YOUR TRAILER
The weight of the boat, equipment and additional gear should never exceed the manufacturer's rated weight capacity. Proper distribution of the load is of vital importance. Too much weight on the hitch will cause "tail dragging" of the towing vehicle, impairing steering and raising headlights into the eyes of oncoming traffic. Too little or negative weight on the hitch, and the trailer will sway or "fishtail". The solution to proper distribution is often adjusting movable gear. A more permanent solution is to shift the axle position before taking your boat to water the very first time.
TOWING
Extra caution is necessary when towing any trailer. The heavier the rig, the more time required to accelerate, pass, and stop. For this reason, the maximum speed for vehicles with trailers is less than without a trailer in most states. A long rig requires a larger turning radius. Curbs and obstructions should be given wide clearance. Most boats on trailers obstruct the rear view of the driver. When this happens, an additional rear view mirror on the right side of the towing vehicle is required by law.
The trailer boatman should be familiar with traffic and highway laws relating to the towing of trailers. Towing a Hobie has particular hazards that should be mentioned. A Hobie is very wide. Obstacles should be given plenty of room when you are passing them. Tie down straps or lashings should be of sufficient size and diameter and placed on all four corners.
The mast support on a trailer is subject to a lot of
LAUNCHING AND RETRIEVING
Prepare boat for launching at the top of the ramp or parking facility. Remove all
MAINTENANCE
Lights: Most state laws require two red taillights on the rear that may be combined with the stop and turn signals. Vehicles over 80 inches in width require clearance lights. If lights are dunked, waterproof light fixtures should be used. If water is allowed to enter, the lamp may crack and short out the entire system. Water also promotes contact corrosion. Always carry spare lamps. The wire coupling to the towing vehicle should be high enough to stay dry. Never rely on the trailer hitch for ground connection.
The mast should not extend over three feet behind the rear light assembly.
Wheels: Tires should ALWAYS be inflated to manufacturer's recommended pressure. Always carry a spare wheel and a jack that fit the boat trailer. If wheel bearings are always dunked, waterproof bearings and caps should be considered. If water is allowed into the hub, lubricating grease will float away and bearings will burn out or seize, causing damage and a safety hazard. Waterproofed bearings should be inspected prior to each boating season, others more often. Special care should be given when traveling on unimproved roadways with small diameter wheels.
If a spare wheel is not available, a spare wheel bearing set should be taken on long trips in case the grease seal has been broken.
FRAME AND ROLLERS
Rust should not be allowed to accumulate. Remove rust and repaint with
TOWING VEHICLE
Most vehicles are limited in towing capacity. Towing heavy loads places extra demands on the engine, transmission, brakes and other systems vital to the vehicle. Towing "packages" are available through most auto dealers and should be considered for heavy boats.
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