View Full Version : Front-Mount Trailer Hitch - Worth It?
Jack Crevalle
05-27-2005, 04:01 PM
I'm a new boat/trailer owner and I suck at backing the trailer. I'm thinking about getting a front-mounted hitch for those occassions but I wanted to know for someone with experience if they are worth while. I found that I did a lot better backing when I turned around and did not rely on mirrors. Medical problems make it very painful to swivel my head around though.
Thanks.
started using one 15 yrs ago and wouldn't be without one now
just too easy to use
Jack,
In my opinion it isnt worth it. Just make sure you have good mirrors on your vehicle and invest sometime praticing backing with them. Go to a quiet parking lot someplace and pratice and then force yourself to use the mirrors. It will be awkward at first but once you get used to it you will find that it is time and effort well spent. Resist the tempation to turn around and look, just go slow and pratice. On the ramp you will be a little spooked when the trailer goes over the edge at first and you cant see your boat, just make sure you are well aligned first. If all those truckers can learn to do it you can too. Hooking and on hooking your trailer isnt worth all the effort. Hope it works out for you.
BigWillJ
05-30-2005, 09:02 AM
Agree with both replies, though agree it would be a hassle to unhitch and rehitch every time at the ramp.
One of the better stated advantages of the front hitch is manuevering boat in close quarters around corners. Usually when there is difficulty parking and/or retrieving boat at home somewhere.
It's true about truckers. I always felt a need to "look" when backing up, even when simply backing a car. After some time behind the wheel of a tractor trailer, using mirrors became second nature. The confidence comes easily. Trick is to "know" what's back there, then visualize where you need to go before you attempt to back up. Properly positioning yourself beforehand makes backing a trailer all that much easier.
Bob H.
05-30-2005, 02:31 PM
Front hitch is handing around the yard or other confined area where steering geometry could be a pain. Get a bigger set of mirrors or the newer mirrors that telescope when needed. Mirrors are actually better since you can see both sides of the boat and any obstacles. Ramp lines are usually long - you'll make a lot of enemies at a busy ramp.
Jack Crevalle
05-31-2005, 04:40 PM
Ramp lines are usually long - you'll make a lot of enemies at a busy ramp.
Damn, and I just added two names to my enemies list this morning!