Spun tires getting up boat ramp

I just ordered a 3", 30 ft, 30k lb capacity recovery strap from Amazon. The plan is to carry it and get help up the ramp if needed. It seemed to be the most economical solution given the rarity of spinning the tires. Next project is to ensure I have some tow hooks on the front of the van. Thanks all for your input.

We've installed a FMR on our '08 PW Lexor. I could not find a "bolt on" (i.e., it simply bolts on to existing holes in the frame), but we were able to use a universal hitch, though it did take some "fiddling" with it to get it to work.

Measure, then measure again, and then measure one more time.

Putting it up in the air, as opposed to simply rolling underneath, is a REAL help in getting it done.

It did require some modifications to the fiberglass fascia, or "chin" as some call it.

Though we use it for different reasons than launching or retrieving a boat, it works perfectly for us.

Cheers.

Another trick is only back the trailer into the water so that you keep the rear wheels of your van from getting too deep in the water. Use the power of the boat to drive up onto the trailer, then use your boat winch to pull the boat all the way on the trailer.

mlts22 wrote:
What about a wench for the bumper? I know there are portable ones.

I don't know how a wench sitting on your bumper would help unless she was very heavy. A winch would help a little more if there is something to attach the other end to close enough to help.

It is built on the Chevy Express 3500 van.

NRALIFR wrote:
Not knowing what chassis we're talking about here, but you could consider replacing the differential with a Eaton Detroit Truetrac.

:):)

+1 for Truetrac :B

And I would carry a tow strap, you may need to install a tow hook.

We Cant Wait wrote:
One trick a lot of boaters have learned to do on a slick ramp, is to apply the parking brake just enough to force both rear wheels to grip instead of just one. If you have a parking brake that's the foot pedal type just hold up the release lever and gently apply pressure with the left foot while apply throttle with your right foot till both wheels grip and you drive up the ramp. With a limited slip differential the power will go the tire with the least amount of resistance, by applying the parking brake your applying equal resistance to both wheels thus doubling your available traction.

I will definitely try that next time. I am also looking into adding a winch. Thanks all for your replies.

What about a wench for the bumper? I know there are portable ones.

I think it's a fact of life.

recent camping trip we were near a boat ramp and many of the tow vehicles- esp pick ups might spin a bit.

a shovel of sand might help get grip through that slime though.

mike

Use the boat engine to help get going. A tow strap and a small pull would always work. A small amount of sand in front of the tires is not going to hurt anything and should be enough to get you going.