More Trailering Tips: From the Snipe Trenches

Last week I posted 6 Tips for Trouble-free Snipe Trailering and then shared it on Facebook. The number of comments it received (all with the shared theme of “don’t do this”) was rather impressive, so I’m republishing them in a more lasting format. I’ll try to keep this updated with new comments, so be sure to share any additional stories.

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Craig Leweck Watch the stereo volume. Once blew a tire and didn’t realize it until all the rubber was off the rim. On a positive note, it made changing to the spare easier.

Craig Leweck Make sure the safety chain is securely fastened. Watching a trailer get launched off an overpass is a heart-stopper.

Craig Leweck Drive cautiously in east Texas when it rains. There are some areas deemed ‘money-makers’ when unsuspecting drivers encounter flooded highways, which then lead to spin outs and costly road service.

Margaret Bonds Podlich Join BoatUS and get trailer roadside assistance nationwide for your trailer for $38 a year!

Craig Leweck Do not enter rest area bathrooms in Oklahoma alone. Buddy system only.

Craig Leweck Do not use kevlar or other bullet proof lines to tie down boat. When trouble comes, you need for the lines to stretch a little and not saw through the boat.

Craig Leweck Do not let your spouse drive with faulty trailer lights on your trailer. They will never let you forget about the ticket they get (even though they were speeding at the time).

Craig Leweck Tow trucks can be very handy for recovering trailers and boats that have been launched off the highway.

Steve Callison Ahh. The Rochester in me must share that it is easy for chains to bounce off when towing thru deep snow and you will never hear them. Snow on back window will make it so you will never know trailer came off. Found out at SSA and last checked the rig in Pa. Thankfully found boat and trailer on sidewalk in front of marmadukes (back in the day) waiting for opening.

Gweneth Crook Try not to roll van, trailer and Snipe across 4 lanes of highway in Nova Scotia with your Father sleeping in the back!

Peter Commette Here’s what I’d add to your list: check tire pressure before you leave (should be 10% of max PSI, when tires are cold); switch your bearing caps to “Bearing Buddies,” and check that they are fully greased for each trip; have a good spare and a hydraulic jack with a few 2×4 pieces of wood to put under any jack you have, because of variations in trailer frame height height and because you might be on an angle when you pull off the road (have to be able to go low or high); have a really good flashlight and check it before you leave; find the small, multiple lug nut accommodating, + (plus) sign shaped jack handle (easier to use on a low trailer tire); have everything easily accessible. When you get your flat, immediately Google a replacement facility and take the extra time to get a new spare immediately; don’t drive without a spare.