Trailer depth indicators.

Discussion in 'Boat Design' started by FISHALOT, Oct 8, 2014.

  1. FISHALOT
    Joined: Jul 2012
    Posts: 17
    Likes: 1, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 11
    Location: United States

    FISHALOT Junior Member

    Hello,
    I was wondering if any one uses or has used the trailer depth indicators. What do you think and are they worth the money. I am kinda short so I cant see much of my trailer especially when the trailer heads down the boat ramp I was thinking these indicators would help me know my trailer is at the right depth. especially at night. thanks for your reply.
     
  2. gonzo
    Joined: Aug 2002
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    Location: Milwaukee, WI

    gonzo Senior Member

    If you have guide arms, just paint a stripe at the right depth.
     
  3. AndySGray
    Joined: Jun 2014
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    Location: Cayman

    AndySGray Senior Member

    I agree with Gonzo,

    You could also use the 3M type reflective tape which works well in low light,

    Maybe add a rear pointing work light(s) on the towing vehicle too - check local regs on that - some have to be wired in such a way as can't be accidently switched on while driving.
     
  4. KnottyBuoyz
    Joined: Jul 2006
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    Location: Iroquois, Ontario

    KnottyBuoyz Provocateur & Raconteur

    I have a similar problem with our dink on a trailer. Couldn't see it at all backing up so I picked up a couple of driveway markers from the local TSC store and mounted them to the trailer. Works perfect & cheap.

    [​IMG]
     
  5. PAR
    Joined: Nov 2003
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    Location: Eustis, FL

    PAR Yacht Designer/Builder

    I saw a guy at a ramp once, that had some foam donuts around his trailer guides, that floated on contact with the water. When the foam rings hit a line, he knew he was deep enough. I thought pretty clever.
     
  6. philSweet
    Joined: May 2008
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    Location: Beaufort, SC and H'ville, NC

    philSweet Senior Member

    I just went by the sound of the exhaust. When it started going blub blub blub, it was time to stop. If stuff was floating around in the back, you'd gone a bit too far.
     
  7. FISHALOT
    Joined: Jul 2012
    Posts: 17
    Likes: 1, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 11
    Location: United States

    FISHALOT Junior Member

    Thank you for all your replies this is helpful.
     
  8. Fanie
    Joined: Oct 2007
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    Location: Colonial "Sick Africa"

    Fanie Fanie

    Good grief Knotty, that dink is so high on the trailer you can see the traffic from under it.

    Fishalot, what are you fishing at night for ?

    LOL, most guys fit a depth finder if they want to know how deep it is...

    How about a reverse light that lights up the side of the trailer ?
     

  9. FISHALOT
    Joined: Jul 2012
    Posts: 17
    Likes: 1, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 11
    Location: United States

    FISHALOT Junior Member

    Fanie who doesn't fish at night. I was referring to loading the boat at night anyways.
     
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