How to Back a Boat Trailer Into the Driveway & Down a Boat Ramp
- 1). Attach the boat trailer to the back of the vehicle with the ball hitch and connect the lighting wires for the trailer. Test the wires to make sure the lights are working correctly.
- 2). Line up the side view or rear view mirrors. If you are in close quarters, you can ask a friend or family member to help you. Instruct the friend or family member to stand at the end of the driveway or boat ramp in a position that you can see from the driver's side view mirror. Ask this person to show you which direction to turn to keep the trailer straight on the driveway or ramp.
- 3). Line up the trailer and vehicle so that you are backing into the driveway or ramp in a straight line. This will be impossible for some driveways. If this is the case, pull the vehicle past the driveway and start backing up the trailer so the back tires are on the driveway.
- 4). Look at the trailer through your mirrors or poke your head out of the window to see the trailer.
- 5). Put the vehicle in reverse and slowly let off the brake. You may have to gently press the gas petal to start the initial movement down the driveway or boat ramp.
- 6). Watch the trailer or the friend in your mirrors. Turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction that you what the trailer to go. For example, if your trailer needs to move to the left you will need to turn the steering wheel to the right. Do not jerk the wheel.
- 7). Make small adjustments as you move onto the driveway or onto the boat ramp, to keep the trailer straight.
- 8). Place the vehicle in park when you are done and inspect trailer. If you are on a boat ramp, the entire trailer should be submerged in the water. If you are in a driveway, make sure the trailer is parked straight so it does not obstruct other vehicles.
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