Written By - boatsville.com - 04/2/2008
Link to Original Article here

For the courtesy of others and to prevent rushing, prepare your boat for launching away from the ramp. ~ Check the boat to ensure that no damage was caused by the trip ~ Raise the lower unit (remove supports) to proper height for launching so that it will not hit bottom. ~ Remove tie downs and make sure that the winch is properly attached to the bow eye and locked in position. ~ Attach a line to the bow and the stern of the boat so that the boat cannot drift away after launching and it can be easily maneuvered to a docking area. ~ Visually inspect the launch ramp for hazards such as a steep drop off, grease and sharp objects. When everything has been double checked, proceed slowly to the ramp remembering that your boat is just resting on the trailer and attached only at the bow. The ideal situation is to have one person in the boat and one observer at the water's edge to help guide the driver of the tow vehicle. When launching: ~ Keep the rear wheels of the tow vehicle out of the water. This will generally keep the exhaust pipes out of the water. If the exhaust pipes become immersed in the water, the engine may stall. ~ Set the parking brake and place tire chocks behind rear wheels. ~ Make sure someone on shore is holding the lines attached to the boat. ~ Lower the outdrive and prepare to start the engine (after running blowers and checking for fuel leaks). ~ Start the boat motor and make sure that water is passing through the engine cooling system. ~ Release the winch and disconnect the winch line from the bow when the boat operator is ready.At this point the boat should be ale to be launched with a light shove or by b backing off the trailer under power. Finish loading your boat at a sufficient distance from the ramp so that others may use it.