Transporting an inflatable vessel to the launching site is not just a matter of moving cargo, but a responsible process requiring compliance with a number of technical and legal regulations. PVC The trailer ensures that you reach the pond without punctures, ruptures of the side or problems with traffic police inspectors. Unlike metal counterparts, polyvinyl chloride requires more delicate handling, as it is sensitive to friction on rough surfaces and overheating in the sun.
Owners often underestimate the importance of quality styling, relying on the case or the simplest ropes. However, even a small stone caught under the cylinder while driving on the highway can lead to serious damage that will have to be repaired in the field. Below we will discuss in detail all aspects of preparation, attachment and movement with such a specific load.
SDA requirements and legal aspects of transportation
Before loading a boat, you must ensure that your vehicle and trailer are in compliance with the applicable law. According to traffic regulations, the dimensions of the cargo must not exceed the width of the vehicle by more than 0.4 meters on each side. PVC In the assembled form, wider than this limit, you will need to install special signs "Bulky cargo" and, possibly, escort.
An important nuance is the presence of a category of rights. For towing a trailer with a gross mass of up to 750 kg, the category "B" is enough. If the mass of the trailer exceeds 750 kg, but not more than 3500 kg, the amount of permissible weights of the car and the trailer should not exceed 3.5 tons, otherwise the category "BE" will be required. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines and putting the car in a parking lot.
There are a number of speed limits that are often overlooked: When towing a trailer in built-up areas, the speed should not exceed 60 km/h, and on suburban roads - 90 km/h (or 70 km/h for some types of trailers), exceeding the speed limit significantly increases the risk of loss of control, especially in lateral winds.
⚠️ Attention: The absence of a license plate on the trailer or unreadable numbers on the boat (if it is a small vessel requiring registration) is grounds for a fine.
- 🚗 The existence of a valid category of rights of the corresponding type (B or BE).
- 🔢 Correct lighting devices of the trailer (turns, stop lights, dimensions).
- 📏 Compliance with overall restrictions (width up to 2.55 m without special permission).
- 🛑 Installation of the sign "Big cargo" when the width of the car is exceeded by 0.4 m.
Choosing the Right Trailer for Inflatable Boats
The market offers many options, but for PVC Specialized models with lodgings or keel trailers are best suited. Conventional metal bottom trailers are dangerous for inflatable tubes because of the risk of puncture with sharp edges or welds. If you use a universal board, it must be carefully prepared.
Trailers with padded pads (rubber or felt mats) ensure uniform weight distribution and protect the sides from abrasion. They repeat the contours of the hull, which is especially important for low-pressure inflatable keel (LDPE) boats. Metal frames must be painted or coated with anti-corrosion composition so that rust does not fall on the PVC fabric.
When choosing a vehicle, consider the load capacity: a fully equipped boat with an engine, a gas tank and a battery can be significant; the trailer should have a minimum of 20-30% of the weight of the load; the length of the vehicle is also important; too short can lead to the load hitting the cab when braking.
If you use a conventional metal board, cover it with a tight carpet, an old blanket or special rubber mats before each loading, which will save the bottom of the boat from scratching and overheating.
For hard-trans boats, it is important that the rear of the trailer has support to prevent the engine from hanging, and in some cases, additional hardwood stops are required to eliminate vibration and load on the transom while driving.
Preparation of the boat for loading and transportation
The quality training begins long before you get to the track, and the first thing you need to do is check the pressure in the cylinders. Over-pumped boat The sun can burst due to air expansion, and the under-pumped can deform under its own weight and weight of the cargo. The optimal pressure should be in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, usually 0.2-0.25 atm.
If you're planning a long trip in hot weather, it makes sense to lower the pressure a little before you step out of the shade, but not below the minimum values. Also check the integrity of the valves and the presence of protective caps. An open valve is guaranteed dust and moisture inside the balloon, which can lead to mold formation.
Put all the removable equipment in the cockpit: oars, pump, anchor, life jackets, and not only will it free up space in the car, but it will also create an extra load that will press the boat against the trailer, improving stability. But don't overload the bow so as not to disturb the weight of the trailer.
Do I need to take air off the road?
It's not recommended to let the boat down completely if you plan to go down the same day, it's a waste of time and effort, it's enough to control the pressure, and if you're going to go very long or in extreme heat, you can blow the air slightly, but not more than 10-15 percent.
Pay special attention to the cleanliness of the bottom. The sand and small pebbles that fall between the cylinders and the bottom of the boat, when vibrating, act as an abrasive. Before loading, wipe the surface with a wet cloth. This simple procedure will significantly prolong the life of your boat.
Technology of proper stowage and fastening of cargo
The most critical stage is fixation. PVC boat anchorage It should exclude any displacement, but should not press the cylinders. Use only specialized belts with a ratchet mechanism or friction buckles. Conventional ropes or spider bands will not provide the necessary reliability and can stretch along the way.
The belt mounting points should be on reinforced sections of the boat: liner hinges, carry handles or special rim bolts. Never throw the belt directly through an inflated cylinder without protection - when vibrating it will rub the fabric. Put a piece of rubber under the belt or use belts with a soft inner surface.
The mounting pattern is usually as follows: one belt fixes the nose, two or three belts pass through the sides in the middle, and one belt holds a transom. The belts must be pulled evenly. The tension check is made by probing: the belt should not dangle, but it should not be pressed into the cylinder for more than 1-2 cm.
☑️ Checklist for boat anchorage
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to attach the belts to inflatable handles, not designed for loading, or for cheerful switches, this can lead to the break of the handles and loss of cargo on the track.
After the initial fastening, make sure to drive 100 to 200 meters and stop for a second lift. PVC fabric and belts tend to stretch slightly under load, this simple procedure will protect you from trouble at high speeds.
Features of transportation of boats with engine and equipment
The issue of moving with the engine installed is a lot of controversy, on the one hand, it saves time on the water. boat-engine It creates additional sailing and load on the transom, and if you decide to drive the motor on a transom, make sure that it is securely fixed with a special fastening device (transport lock), which prevents bolting.
For heavy motors (over 30-40 kg), it is recommended to use a separate rack on the trailer or remove the engine and carry it in the trunk / trailer separately. Vibration when driving on irregularities can damage the lower unit or the transom of the boat itself, even if it is reinforced by a trench board.
The gas tank must be disconnected from the engine, the fuel line must be squeezed, and the tank must be tightly closed and fixed separately, in an upright position, to prevent leakage of fuel, and the vapors of gasoline in the enclosed space of the cockpit or trailer create a fire hazard situation.
| Type of cargo | Recommended seat | Features of attachment | Risks. |
|---|---|---|---|
| PVC boat | Trailer centre | Seat belts over the sides, friction protection | Puncture, displacement |
| Foot-motor | Tran or rack | Transportation clamp, screw up | Damage to lower unit, breakdown |
| Fuel tank | Separately, vertically | Hard fixation, away from the sun | Leak, fire. |
| Battery | Box or jolly | Protection against short circuit | Discharge, oxidation |
It is safer and more reliable to carry the engine separately in the cabin or the body of the pickup truck, using a special tent case to protect against dirt and moisture.
Movement in the column and behavior on the road
Driving with a trailer requires a redesign of driving stereotypes. The braking distance increases by 30-50%, so the distance to the car in front must be kept much longer.
When overtaking, take into account the increased length of the road train. You will need more time and space to complete the maneuver. On narrow roads with heavy oncoming traffic, it is better to refrain from overtaking, especially if you are followed by a tail of several cars.
Be very careful when reversing, the trajectory of the trailer is opposite to the trajectory of the car's wheels, and if you have to turn back, steer the steering wheel in the opposite direction of the desired direction of the trailer, and do it slowly, in short jerks.
⚠️ Attention: When stopping for long periods (more than 1 hour) in sunny weather, check the pressure in the cylinders. Heating black PVC can lead to a critical increase in pressure.
Keep in mind the cultural aspect: turn on the turn signals in advance, skip overtaking in narrow areas if a queue of 5 or more cars forms behind, this is a rule of good tone and safety.
Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them
One of the most common mistakes is using old, cracked belts. The fabric loses strength under UV light, and rupture can occur at any time. Regularly inspect the gear and replace worn items.
Another mistake is ignoring aerodynamics: a high-raised boat creates air resistance, which leads to fuel overrun and poor handling, and try to position the load as low as possible as the trailer design allows.
Many people forget about protection from dirt from wheels. Rocks and sand from under the wheels of a car and trailer can damage the sides. Installing spray flaps on a trailer is an inexpensive but effective solution to this problem.
What to do if the belt bursts on the road?
Don't panic. Turn on the alarm, slow down smoothly, and pull over to the side of the road. Don't try to catch a boat on the move. Stop, put an emergency stop sign and re-fix the load with the means available or call for help.
Remember that maximum speed for safe transportation of an inflatable boat on an open frame should not exceed 80-90 km / hEven if the traffic is more efficient, the aerodynamic forces at these speeds can become unmanageable.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register a trailer for the transportation of a boat to the traffic police?
Yes, if the total weight of the trailer exceeds 750 kg, it is subject to mandatory registration and registration with the issuance of a license plate. Trailers weighing up to 750 kg do not need to be registered, but the documents on them (passport, sales contract) must be with the driver.
Can I transport a PVC boat assembled on the roof of a passenger car?
Technically, it is possible if the roof and trunk can withstand the weight, but it is not recommended because of the high center of gravity, sailing and the risk of damaging the boat against the protruding parts of the roof, and there may be problems with the dimensions (heights of more than 4 meters require special permission).
How often should I check the tension of the belts in transit?
The first check should be done 10-20 km after the start of the movement, then it is recommended to stop and check the mounting every 100-150 km or after each exit from the asphalt to the dirt road.
Is overheating PVC dangerous during transportation in summer?
Yes, black PVC is heated in the sun, which increases the pressure inside the cylinders, it is recommended to use light awning covers or periodically cover the boat with reflective material, and also to monitor the pressure with a pressure gauge.
Which is better: a slap or a slap?
Friction (tension) belts are better suited for PVC boats, as they allow you to dose the force and less risk of compressing the balloon. Rackle belts require extreme caution not to damage the fabric with excessive pressure.