Transportation of inflatable boats to the place of descent is always stress for the owner, associated with the risk of damaging expensive property. On-board trailer It is often chosen as an alternative to the classic boat carts, especially if the owner already has a base for a snowmobile or an ATV. PVC requires a special approach to load distribution and fixation, since it does not have a rigid keel and transom, capable of withstanding point pressure without consequences.
misorganized transportation It can cause seams to break, the bottom to abrade metal elements, or completely lose buoyancy on the water. Many beginners make the mistake of thinking that soft boards are themselves a shock absorber, but at high speeds or on rough roads, inertial forces are destructive. In this article, we will examine all the nuances of preparing, laying and fastening your vessel for a safe trip.
Particular attention should be paid to the temperature regime and pressure in the cylinders, since these parameters directly affect the behavior of the material during movement. Heating black PVC fabric in the sun when moving at 90 km/h can create excessive internal pressure, dangerous for seams. Understanding the physics of the process will help you avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your vessel.
Preparation of the boat for transportation: blown or not?
The first and most important question that the owner has is whether to completely descent the boat before loading it to the base. PVC It takes a little space, but it takes a lot of time to build and pump on site, which is not always convenient. A partially deflated structure retains its shape, but carries the risk of changing air volume with temperature and pressure changes.
If you plan a long trip on the highway, experts recommend reducing the pressure in the cylinders and the pendant to a minimum of operating values or even slightly lower, this is necessary to compensate for the expansion of air when heated by friction against air and solar radiation. Hardly inflated cylinders can become too elastic and burst if accidentally struck on the load belt or element of the trailer frame.
On the other hand, a completely empty boat turns into a shapeless bag that is difficult to securely fix. Materials It can form into sharp folds that, under pressure from belts or weight, will damage the interior, and the best solution is a compromise: cylinders must be kept in shape, but pressed with a finger, they must be slashed deeper than when parked.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave a fully pumped boat in the direct sun unattended, even for a short time. The pressure inside the cylinders grows faster than you can get to the pond.
Use a shady car or cover the boat with a light cloth during parking to reduce PVC heating and prevent cylinders from being pumped.
Selection and preparation of on-board trailer
The on-board trailer is a versatile solution, but its platform is not originally designed for delicate inflatable objects. Metal sides, frame angles and fasteners can cause damage. Before the first loading, you need to conduct a site audit and eliminate all potentially dangerous protrusions.
Pay special attention to the condition of the trailer floor. If it is a metal mesh or grille, it is categorically not suitable for direct laying of PVC. Point pressure of the bars under the weight of the boat and cargo will lead to deformation and rupture of the material.
- 🛠️ Check the absence of sharp edges on the sides and frame, if necessary, treat them with a file.
- 🛡️ Install temporary or permanent soft pads on the sharp corners of the metal frame.
- 🧹 Clean the platform of dirt, sand and oil that can soak into the bottom of the boat or damage the fabric.
An important aspect is loading capacity Although the boat itself weighs a little, remember to consider the weight of the engine, fuel, anchor and gear. An overloaded trailer loses stability on the road, which increases the risk of overturning or slipping the cargo.
Do you need a tarp?
A tarp is essential if you're planning a long road trip, and it protects PVC from the rocks, insects and dust that fly from under the wheels, which act like an abrasive at high speed.
Proper stowage and weight distribution
The position of the boat on the platform of the trailer determines the stability of the entire structure during movement. The center of gravity should be located strictly above the wheel axis or slightly shifted forward, to the breather, but not beyond it. Incorrect balancing can lead to the trailer wagging ("pendulum effect") and loss of control of the car.
The boat is best stowed upside down if it allows, or on board, protecting the most vulnerable areas beforehand. When laid upside down, the main load is placed on the kilson and bottom, which usually have reinforcements. However, in this position, wind sails may try to lift the lightweight structure, so the mounting should be particularly reliable.
If you are carrying a boat in a assembled form with a set transmotorIt needs to be removed or fixed in a vertical position, the Track is not designed for constant vibration and weight of the engine when driving on irregularities, the removed engine is better placed in the back of the car or in a special compartment of the trailer, separate from the inflatable tubes.
| Element of the boat | Risks in transportation | Protection method |
|---|---|---|
| inflatable tubes | Puncture, break seam. | Pressure reduction, soft pads |
| Bottom (NDND) | Erasure on the floor | All flooring, mat. |
| Tranza | Engine deformation | Removal of motor, support with emphasis |
| Valves. | Sand clogging | Closed caps, tent cover |
Load anchorage and locking systems
A reliable fastener is a safety net not only for your boat, but also for other road users. Normal ropes are unacceptable because they tend to stretch and weaken along the way. cargo-belt with a ratchet or tensioner.
Belts should be passed through special handles or reinforced seats of the boat, avoiding direct pressure on thin areas of cylinders. It is advisable to put soft fabric pads under the belts or use belts with a wide tape to distribute pressure and not damage the PVC fabric. The tension should be strong, but not excessive: the boat should not be displaced, but should not be squeezed to the state of stone.
The attachment scheme should prevent the load from moving in any direction. It is recommended to use a cross screed when the belts go from the left side of the trailer to the right side and vice versa, forming a "cross" above the load, this prevents both longitudinal and transom displacement.
- 🔒 Use a minimum of 2-4 belts for a reliable fixation of a medium-sized boat.
- 🧵 Avoid using chains or cables that can RUB the material.
- 👀 Check the tension of the belts after the first 10-15 km of the journey, as the material may sit down a little.
⚠️ Attention: Don't let the belts directly through the oar-switches or thin plastic elements. They may not withstand the load and come off, damaging the balloon.
☑️ Checking of the anchorage before departure
Speed mode and features of movement
Transportation of oversized and light cargo on the on-board trailer makes its own adjustments to the driving style. PVC It has a lot of sailing, especially if it's not covered by a tent, and side wind gusts or oncoming trucks can create tangible drag and roll.
The recommended speed should not exceed 60-70 km/h on the highway and 40 km/h on dirt roads. Exceeding speed increases the air pressure on the load, increases the risk of detachment of the attachments and increases vibration, which is transmitted to the structure of the boat. On rough roads, the speed should be reduced to a minimum, avoiding sharp braking and acceleration.
When driving on rough terrain, try to choose a trajectory that minimizes shaking. On-board trailer without spring suspension (or with rigid suspension) will transmit all the blows to the frame and load. If possible, use the bypass paths with better coating, even if they are longer.
The safe speed of transportation of an inflatable boat on the side trailer should not exceed 70 km / h, and on the primer - 30-40 km / h.
Protection from external influences in transit
The road is full of surprises, from rocks flying out from under the wheels to insects and dust, all of which can cause serious damage to the surface. PVCThe stones at high speed act like bullets, leaving dents or holes, and insects and tree resin can ingest into the material and require complex dry cleaning.
The ideal solution is to use a special transport case or a tight awning that covers the boat from all sides, and if you don't have a special cover, you can use old blankets, carpets or thick canvas fabric, throwing them on top and securing them with belts, and this will create an additional buffer layer.
Also worth remembering are the chemicals that are sprinkled on the roads and the salt water if you're moving along the sea, and after the trip, especially if the boat was open, it's recommended to rinse it with fresh water to wash away the corrosives that can accelerate the aging of the material.
How to wash the boat after a long trip?
Use a soft sponge and warm soapy water. Do not use aggressive solvents, gasoline or acetone, as they can damage the PVC layer. Wash the dirt thoroughly and let the boat dry before packing.
Can I transport a boat with an engine installed?
Technically possible, but not recommended. The motor puts extra strain on the transom, vibrates, and can shift the center of gravity, and it's better to take it off and drive it separately in the cabin or trunk of the car.
What to do if you drop a balloon on the way?
Stop immediately in a safe place, pump the balloon to working pressure, seal it with a repair kit, or use a tourniquet as a temporary measure until you get home.
Do I need to register the onboard trailer?
Yes, any trailer intended for the carriage of goods on public roads is subject to mandatory registration with the traffic police and requires a license plate of the appropriate sample.