Launching a large boat with an 80?

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98 SNAKE EATER

98 SNAKE EATER

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OK, I'm looking into possibly trading my dinky little drag boat....

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For sumthin a little bigger....

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30'
7400 lbs. dry weight (+ trailer, fuel, etc.)


Now, I don't really have much use for a boat like this, but since the seller (a Mopar nut) really likes my boat, he's willing to trade.

I figure it would be good investment given the value and I could always trade it for sumthin more useful (like a 23ish CC or Sea Cat)

Anyhoo, I know haulin sumthin this big is a no no in the 80, but the lake isn't too far from our house :hhmm:

My main concern is actually launching this beast down a steep ramp :o

Would I have any problems, even in low range or am I gunna need to hook my winch up to a tree while launching and loading?
 
In my opinion that is too much for an 80. Idaho doug pulls a large boat with his but I do not think it's quite that big.
 
These are basically tractor engines (or based off it). I would think you would have no issues in low range. I started off pulling out my ~3k lb boat in low range, quickly figured out that it was no issue pulling it out even steep ramps.

Considering the ton more power you got in low range, I doubt you'll have a problem.

But I would start off slow and simple. Pull it around flat first, see how it does. Then try some hills before burying it into the water.
 
We used to pull our 21ft SeaRay on it's dual axle oversized trailer with my old 92 3fe powered cruiser. But the ride was slow down :)
I'm sure you CAN pull it, but if you do take it easy on the skinny pedal and don't push your motor too hard. As far as launching it, I doubt you'll have any issues.
 
Depending on the ramp, you'll have either no problems pulling the boat out or some problems. Our boat weighs 6000lbs and I've pulled it up steep ocean ramps at low tide with 20 feet of slippery moss. So you'll be fine on improved ramps and picking when you launch/retrieve. Sounds like you don't go far, so the street towing would be a judgement call on your part.

As for the drivetrain, remember the 80 is rated to tow 7700lbs in the rest of the world. Just in the US it's rated at 5000lbs to keep the company lawyers happy here in litigation happyland.

I'd do that trade in a new york minute provided the boat's drivetrain looks as good as the photos show the boat's outward appearance to be. Wouldn't want to find out it needs $5000 worth of outdrive work or the like.

DougM
 
7400 for the boat but how much for the trailer???

In my experience they weight a lot more than you would think.

My roommate has a 24' Malibu w/triple axle trailer. Cant remember how much she said it weighs but its a lot!
 
I have moved my father's 30' Scarab center console around my yard because of the small turning radius compared to his 4 door F350 and my 80 did fine. I have never taken it out on the road but would be most concerned with its braking capabilities. I would definitely suggest a brake controller and top notch maintenance of your braking system.
 
I'd trade boats in a heartbeat.

I'm sure the 80 will pull it around and up a ramp in most conditions, but that's more weight than I would be comfortable with behind me if I had to explain it to my attorney.
 
blunt said:
I have moved my father's 30' Scarab center console around my yard because of the small turning radius compared to his 4 door F350 and my 80 did fine. I have never taken it out on the road but would be most concerned with its braking capabilities. I would definitely suggest a brake controller and top notch maintenance of your braking system.
Click to expand...

Proper boat trailers have hydraulic surge breaks, electric pucks don't work in the chuck...

I'd tow it. You have the weight of most 3/4 & 1 ton pick ups, you lack the wheelbase and engine and brakes to make a comfortable long distance tow. Use low range to launch/retrieve, make sure your 80's brakes are 100% because the trailer brakes won't work backing down the ramp...
 
You also might consider doing the Pin 7 mod and a center diff lock switch so you can maneuver around boat ramps in low range with an open diff. Turning sharply with the center diff lock, lots of load and on concrete might be rough on birfs. With open center and low range you can easily turn sharp while having the added torque.

DougM
 
huckthehaus said:
Proper boat trailers have hydraulic surge breaks, electric pucks don't work in the chuck...

I'd tow it. You have the weight of most 3/4 & 1 ton pick ups, you lack the wheelbase and engine and brakes to make a comfortable long distance tow. Use low range to launch/retrieve, make sure your 80's brakes are 100% because the trailer brakes won't work backing down the ramp...
Click to expand...

You can get an electric powered cylinder that mounts in the tongue. Keeps the electrics out of the water, and gives you much better control and reliability than surge brakes.
 
Pulling it out should not be a problem. If you are concerned put it in low and get it done. Towing around town will be interesting. Just use your brain and be safe.

Picture a diesel vw rabbit p/u pulling a 23' inboard CC with a tuna tower. Can't say I never did that. But for a three mile tow to a crane to launch everyone lived, except the vw hitch bumper.:lol:
 
Im pretty sure the weight of the boat should be split around 55% towards the tounge and 45% to the back of the trailer. Basically so that you can pick up the tounge by hand without too much strain but also so that the trailor wont pick up the back of the Cruiser. :whoops: Just dont destroy your rear suspension and make sure you can steer when the front end is pointed up the ramp!:steer:
 
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