towing technique

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May 8, 2006 | 08:38 AM

SDhopes

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Joined: Dec 2004

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towing technique

did a search and couldn't find any info on this, but:

i'm looking at f250s with a manual tranny. i have a 28' boat, and was wondering just what clutch/gas/brake technique is best used when pulling it out of the water. the launch i go to is slick, so i know that a quick brake release and gassing it might not get me the desired results... so how do you guys do it?

May 8, 2006 | 08:46 AM

davzog

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I would also like any info available...I just bought a new V10 six speed last week and have not yet towed with it....thanks

May 8, 2006 | 09:28 AM

DetailerDave

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Joined: May 2004

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From: Phoenix, Az

After towing several boats, if you have the option, get the automatic. If not, practice with your right heel on the brake, and toe on the gas pedal, left foot on the clutch. It might take a little practice, tho. That is what I did with my old manual shift truck, pulling the boat out.

May 8, 2006 | 10:38 AM

BPofMD

FTE Legend

Joined: Jul 2005

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From: Millersville, MD

I was taught to use the Em. brake....get the clutch engaged, release the E brake.

May 8, 2006 | 10:40 AM

SLE

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Joined: Nov 2004

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From: North Dakota

I've got a way easier way since you seem not so inclined to using an auto for that type of work. when you back down the ramp just et the E-brake. when you pull out push the gas, feather the clutch untill it feels as if its pulling and reach down and pop the E-brake and away you go! easy as pie and works really well on all type of situations where this occures, no just the boat ramps but thats where I learned to do so with an old 4 speed bronco.

May 8, 2006 | 06:45 PM

DetailerDave

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Joined: May 2004

Posts: 749

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From: Phoenix, Az

I liked the older style E-brake, with the handle you twisted to unlock, then slid the handle forward to release. Those were much easier to use on a hill or similar situation. I don't much care for the newer ones, where you pull the handle, and it is released, like NOW.

May 8, 2006 | 07:57 PM

Kwikkordead

Fleet Owner

Joined: Jun 2004

Posts: 25,090

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From: Rio Rico, AZ.

If you have a 4X4, stick it in 4X4 low range. Mega torque and power to all four wheels that way and you can idle the boat and trailer right out of the water.

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May 8, 2006 | 09:58 PM

krewat

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Joined: Jul 2002

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From: Long Island USA

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kwikkordead

If you have a 4X4, stick it in 4X4 low range. Mega torque and power to all four wheels that way and you can idle the boat and trailer right out of the water.

I had written a reply to this, saying the same thing, but lost it somewhere ...

Regardless of what the owner's manual says, I'd have no problem going into 4-LOW with the hubs locked. 1st gear, slide the clutch slowly out, and it should, reallly, just idle out. Well, you might need a LITTLE go-pedal...

Once you have it off the ramp and onto flat ground, take it out of 4x4. When you're on asphalt/pavement, getting it out of 4-LOW might take some backing up a few feet, or going back and forth a few times. With ESOF and pavement, it can be tricky if not downright frightening from the CLUNK when it comes out of LOW.