ALWAYS CHECK BEFORE YOU TOW:
Hitch, hitch ball and coupler are of the correct size. It is important that all of the ratings match.
The coupler must be secured to the tow ball. Safety chains should be properly attached to the hitch.
Check all trailer straps and fasteners for proper tightness
Boat hull, gear and other cargo is securely tied down to trailer.
Wheel lug nuts and bearings are properly tightened, adjusted and lubricated.
Brake fluid is full and clean.
Load is within maximum carrying capacity of the trailer.
Boat is properly balanced on the trailer.
Tongue weight does not exceed 5% to 7% of the total trailer load
Tires are properly inflated and all trailer lights are working properly.

​What do I need to do to keep my Trailer Maintained? 
Annual maintenance should involve the dis-assembly, cleaning, inspection, and repacking of all wheel bearings with the recommended lubricant. All moving parts within the brake and sliding points should be inspected for wear and movement as needed. Brake shoes or pads should be inspected to assure they are clean, dry, free of any contaminants, and not worn below their serviceable limit. Brake fluid should be thoroughly bled annually and replaced. All fasteners should be checked for proper tension. All roller assemblies and winches should be checked annually. Bunk boards should be checked as well as the frames and axles. The trailer should also be examined for damage, fractures, and rust.

When driving with the trailer the bearings heat up and it tends to breaks down the grease. Submerging your trailer constantly will also flush out the grease. The easiest way to fix this is replace the dust cap on the outer end of the hub that has a grease fitting which can be filled with a grease gun. A couple of pumps before each use should do. If you do not have buddy bearings then the bearings should be repacked every year. All the lug nuts need to be loosened and sprayed with WD-40 to keep them loose enough to get off. Spray nuts, bolts, leaf springs and all other hardware items with a corrosion spray.​

Trailer laws vary by state. It is the responsibility of the trailer owner to keep your trailer in compliance with the laws in your jurisdiction. If you are unsure, contact your state motor vehicle department for full information before selecting a trailer.

Note: Maximum load carrying capacity is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) less the weight of the empty trailer. This information is imprinted on the VIN sticker on the left frame rail of every RipTide Boat Trailer. Improper tongue weight on the tow vehicle hitch ball can cause loss of control of the tow vehicle.  Failure to adjust everything properly on your trailer can cause damage to your boat hull, personal injury, or even death. Contact your dealer for proper trailer adjustment.

 

Failure to properly attach safety chains/cables between your trailer and tow vehicle can result in a run-away trailer. Failure to properly engage the tow ball in the coupler ball socket and securely lock the coupler latch mechanism can cause the trailer to become detached from the tow vehicle while traveling. To reduce the risk of property damage, personal injury, or even death, make certain that all trailer lights are in proper working order.

Keep tires properly inflated. Failure to maintain correct pressure may result in tire failure and loss of control resulting in property damage, personal injury, or even death.

Trailer brakes must be maintained in good working condition. Failure to tie down the bow independently from the winch line could allow your boat to shift while traveling. To reduce the risk of serious injury or even death, do not step inside or on the trailer frame during launching or loading procedures.

To reduce the risk of serious injury or even death should the winch strap, cable or hook fail, always stand to one side when winching the boat onto your trailer. Your trailer will look better and last longer if you rinse it off with fresh water several times a year. If your trailer is used in salt water, the trailer should be rinsed off after every dip.

 

Trailer Storage:

If at all possible, park your trailer rig in a protected area; a garage, carport, etc. If the trailer is parked outdoors, install a boat cover that is tight enough for adequate protection, but not air tight. Check all fasteners for proper tension, inflate tires per maximum sidewall pressure, lubricate pivot points, service the bearings, and bleed the brakes.

​How do I adjust my disc brakes?
Disc brakes adjust themselves and do not require manual adjustment. If you feel that there is something wrong with your brakes then please call our office and we can set up a time for you to bring the trailer in.

VIN and CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN INFORMATION

​Where can I find the VIN on my trailer?
The VIN is located on the left frame of the trailer just behind the tongue to frame junction.

​What is a Certificate of Origin?
A vehicle manufacturer issues a M.C.O. to the original purchasing dealer. The dealer signs it over to the new vehicle owner who then submits it to their local DMV upon vehicle registration. The local DMV then issues a Certificate of Title or some other ownership document to the new vehicle purchaser. We will also provide a Bill of Sale which will also need to be shown at the DMV.

Why is it important that I supply both my model and VIN number when requesting parts?
Model numbers may be the same, and trailer components may be sourced from different suppliers at different times. Tracing the VIN will generate an exact date the trailer was built. Having this information will help to accurately supply replacement parts.

​How long will it take to receive my trailer once ordered?
Each trailer is custom made for each customer. Once your trailer is ordered we will begin production. Production time can vary. Please call for further information.

​Is there any optional equipment available for my trailer?
Yes, many options. Please check out our "Accessories" page.